You know elections are coming when...

[LITTLEREDDOT]

HDB launches 5,032 BTO flats, including first project in Woodlands North Coast​

The parcel of land (bottom) bordered by Queensway Road and Mei Chin Road in which the Stirling Horizon BTO will be built on, pictured on Feb 10.ST PHOTO: MARK CHEONG
Isabelle Liew
Feb 10, 2025

SINGAPORE - Some 1,563 flats located within walking distance to Singapore’s northern waterfront and near Woodlands Checkpoint were launched by the Housing Board on Feb 10.

These flats – the first to be offered in the new Woodlands North Coast precinct – were among 5,032 Build-To-Order (BTO) flats that HDB put up for sale.

Four other projects are on offer in Kallang/Whampoa, Queenstown and Yishun.

Another 5,590 flats are also up for sale in the largest Sale of Balance Flats exercise to date. About four in 10 of these units are already completed, with the remaining flats to be completed progressively from 2025 to 2028.

The bulk of the balance flats are in Ang Mo Kio, Tampines, Tengah and Woodlands.

The latest launch is the second under the new flat classification system, which sorts BTO projects into Standard, Plus and Prime categories based on their proximity to the city centre, transport connectivity and amenities.

The Woodlands North Verge project is among three Standard projects on offer. Flats in these projects will not have a subsidy recovery clause when they are sold, and come with a five-year minimum occupation period (MOP).

The waterfront development comprises 1,563 units of two-room flexi, three-, four- and five-room flats in Admiralty Road.

The project is also near parks such as Admiralty Park and Woodlands Waterfront Park. It will have eateries, a supermarket, shops, a pre-school and a residents’ network centre.

Prices (without grants) range from $140,000 to $251,000 for a two-room flexi flat, $275,000 to $363,000 for a three-room flat, $365,000 to $528,000 for a four-room flat, and $486,000 to $661,000 for a five-room flat.

Two projects in Chencharu, an up-and-coming HDB residential area in Yishun, will offer a combined 1,531 units. There are two-room flexi, three-, four- and five-room flats across the two plots, which are separated by Bah Soon Pah Road.

The larger 848-unit project, Chencharu Vines, is bounded by Sembawang Road. It will have amenities such as a supermarket, a pre-school and a residents’ network centre.

The other 683-unit project, Chencharu Green, will be in Chencharu Link, a new bus-only road, and is closer to Khatib MRT station.

The only Prime project, Tanjong Rhu Parc Front in Kallang/Whampoa, will have a subsidy clawback of 9 per cent.

The 812-unit project consists of two-room flexi, three- and four-room flats on a plot near Geylang River. One of its four blocks will have 203 rental flats.

Prices (without grants) range from $399,000 to $519,000 for a three-room unit, and $548,000 to $727,000 for a four-room flat.

For comparison, three-room resale flats in Kallang/Whampoa transacted at between $760,000 and $838,000, and four-room resale flats at between $960,000 and $1.05 million, said HDB.

Plus and Prime flats, which are in more attractive locations, come with a subsidy clawback clause and a 10-year MOP. This is to curb the “lottery effect” of owning flats in prime and central locations.

They will also come with significant market discounts to keep them affordable.

In Queenstown, Plus project Stirling Horizon in Mei Chin Road will house 1,126 two-room flexi, three- and four-room flats. It is about a 10-minute walk from Queenstown MRT station.

The subsidy recovery for this project has been set at 8 per cent. Four-room flats are going for $554,000 to $749,000, without grants, making them the priciest in this launch.

Buyers will have to wait four years and seven months for these flats – the longest wait in this sales exercise.

This plot was previously occupied by the former Mei Chin Secondary and Primary schools, which were demolished by HDB between 2022 and 2023.

From February’s BTO exercise, HDB will issue two times more queue numbers than the flat supply, down from three times previously.

This is because measures to help first-time applicants secure their BTO flats, as well as the stricter rules for applicants who reject offers to book units, have worked, said National Development Minister Desmond Lee in an interview in January.

The booking chances of applicants who have queue numbers above two times the flat supply were much lower than before, and it also gives applicants more certainty over whether they should apply for the next sales exercise, he said.

HDB said applicants who wish to improve their chances of securing a flat are encouraged to apply for Standard flats, where at least 95 per cent of the four-room and larger flats are set aside for first-timer families.

Flat applications close at 11.59pm on Feb 17 on the HDB Flat Portal. The new homes will be allocated through balloting.

In the next BTO exercise in July, HDB will offer about 5,400 flats in Bukit Merah, Bukit Panjang, Clementi, Sembawang, Tampines, Toa Payoh and Woodlands.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

1,000 job roles to be created under new plan to grow S’pore’s marine and offshore energy firms​

The industry also aims to secure orders for at least 250 kiloton in annual carbon emission avoidance and reductions.PHOTO: ENTERPRISE SINGAPORE

Sue-Ann Tan
Feb 10, 2025


SINGAPORE - A newly launched plan to help Singapore’s marine and offshore energy companies to grow sustainably aims to create and redesign 1,000 local job roles by 2030.

Under the plan, announced on Feb 10, the industry also aims to secure new orders that facilitate at least 250 kiloton in annual carbon emission avoidance and reductions by 2030. This is equivalent to taking 39,000 cars off the road.

The industry plan will provide a blueprint for the sector to grow, as well as establish Singapore as the Asia-Pacific hub for maritime sustainability, said the Association of Singapore Marine & Offshore Energy Industries (ASMI).

The association launched the industry plan with support from Enterprise Singapore.

It said in a media statement: “(The plan) also aims to address challenges faced by the marine and offshore energy industry, including resource constraints, talent development and growing regional competition.

“Although the industry has long been one of the cornerstones of the nation’s economy with global leadership in marine and offshore engineering technologies and capabilities, it is essential to continuously adapt its strategies and approaches. This will ensure sustained access to long-term opportunities and foster continued economic growth.”

The plan aims to achieve 5 per cent average annual productivity growth to 2030.

These are among four targets the plan has set for the marine and offshore energy industry.

There will be a focus on upskilling and reskilling to develop a future-ready workforce that can take on new roles in offshore renewables, sustainability, digitalisation and advanced manufacturing, ASMI said.

Another aim is to support the development of global renewable energy.

This can be achieved through companies securing new contracts that contribute to the cumulative development of more than 50 gigawatts of offshore renewable energy projects globally till 2030, ASMI added.

One gigawatt can power 1.4 million Singapore households annually.

Singapore’s offshore and marine energy industry can also help to advance maritime decarbonisation, ASMI said.

This can be done through new builds and decarbonisation solutions, including retrofits and upgrades, ASMI noted.

ASMI president Simon Kuik said: “Singapore’s marine and offshore energy sector is at a pivotal point, with new opportunities in offshore renewables and maritime decarbonisation. To stay competitive, companies must innovate, adapt, and build new capabilities.

“This will help position Singapore as a global leader in the energy transition, strengthening its role as a key hub in the marine and offshore energy industry.”

The industry plan guides Singapore’s companies to diversify their current business portfolios by capitalising on green opportunities in offshore renewables and maritime decarbonisation.

They can leverage the partnership between the association and other organisations like the Global Wind Energy Council, so that Singapore companies can participate in international events and workshops to access global and regional offshore wind development opportunities.

The industry plan also encourages companies to scale internationally, while having a strong “made in Singapore” identity.

They can use the support and programmes available to them, such as Singapore pavillions organised by the association at global trade shows and business mission trips to key markets like Japan, South Korea and Europe, ASMI said.

It added that the industry plan will prioritise transformation through digitalisation, sustainability, and the development of workers.

It has a transformation initiative with Workforce Singapore that has been nurturing a growing team of marine decarbonisation and digitalisation champions within companies. More than 50 companies have benefited from this move.

“These champions will play a crucial role in helping firms transform their operations and build future-ready capabilities, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape,” ASMI said.

Mr Soh Leng Wan, Enterprise Singapore’s assistant managing director of manufacturing, said: “The marine and offshore energy industry plan is timely, as the increasing demand on maritime decarbonisation and global push for cleaner energy will bring about new business opportunities for Singapore-based companies and Singaporeans.”

He encouraged companies to transform their operations, upskill their workers and build new capabilities.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

‘Ageing’ Bukit Panjang has its third centre to engage 1,300 seniors, a fourth is on the way​

Bukit Panjang MP Liang Eng Hwa and Minister of State Rahayu Mahzam attending the official opening of Fei Yue Active Ageing Centre (Fajar) on Feb 13.ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH

Lee Li Ying
Feb 13, 2025, 04:07 PM

SINGAPORE – The latest of three active ageing centres in Bukit Panjang is expected to engage up to 1,300 senior residents, who can enjoy exercise sessions or art activities in scenic surroundings.

The active ageing centre (AAC) at 406 Fajar Road – located near a pond popular with residents in the vicinity – is operated by social service organisation Fei Yue Community Services. It has engaged more than 600 seniors since it began operations in April 2024.

At its official opening on Feb 13, Bukit Panjang MP Liang Eng Hwa said a fourth AAC in the constituency, located at Bangkit Market, is in the works. A new senior care centre is also set to open at 422 Fajar Road.

Currently, about one in five residents in the constituency is above 60, and the figure is expected to reach one in four in the coming years.

Mr Liang said Bukit Panjang faces a “twin ageing problem”, as both the estate and its residents are ageing.

Pointing out that work has been done to refresh the ageing estate’s infrastructure – where flats are up to 40 years old – he said efforts have also been made to help seniors age well.

“In our community, it’s vital that we continue to create spaces where our elderly can thrive and play an active role in society. These AACs reflect our collective responsibility to ensure that our seniors not only live well but feel valued,” Mr Liang said.

By 2030, one in four citizens in Singapore will be aged 65 and above, up from one in six now.ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
Minister of State for Health Rahayu Mahzam also attended the AAC’s opening.

By 2030, one in four citizens in Singapore will be aged 65 and above, up from one in six now.

Amid this impending silver tsunami, the Government has set a goal of having 220 active ageing centres by 2025, so that eight in 10 residents will have a centre near their homes. As at November 2024, there are 214 AACs.

Singapore has set aside $800 million over five years for active ageing centres to expand their outreach and increase the range and quality of their programmes, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung announced in November 2024.

One unique offering at the new AAC is a special exercise session designed specifically for men, led by Anytime Fitness.

One of its regular participants is Mr Tan Pang Swee, 73, who said he has seen improvements both physically and socially after attending the session. He started coming because he wanted to make more friends.

“It’s not just the body that feels better, but my mind too. It’s a great way to connect with other men in the community who are in the same life stage,” Mr Tan said.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

Household incomes rise in 2024; resident households received more support from govt schemes​

Median monthly household employment income rose 1.4 per cent in real terms, or after adjusting for inflation, in 2024.ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG
Hariz Baharudin and Chin Soo Fang
Feb 13, 2025

SINGAPORE - Median household employment income grew to $11,297 in 2024, while income inequality fell to its lowest level in 25 years, after accounting for government assistance and taxes.

Figures from the Singapore Department of Statistics (SingStat) also showed that resident households got more money from government schemes, due to support measures rolled out in 2024.

SingStat’s Feb 13 report showed that among resident employed households, median monthly household employment income grew by 3.9 per cent in nominal terms, before adjusting for inflation.

This is the third time in a row that the median monthly household employment income has crossed the $10,000 mark – $10,099 in 2022, $10,869 in 2023 and $11,297 in 2024.

Median monthly household employment income rose 1.4 per cent in real terms, or after adjusting for inflation, in 2024. Household employment income includes employer Central Provident Fund contributions. This is lower than the growth in 2023, which was 2.8 per cent.

From 2019 to 2024, median monthly household employment income of resident employed households increased 3.6 per cent cumulatively, or 0.7 per cent per annum in real terms.

Such households have at least one employed person, and the household reference person – previously referred to as the head of household – is a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.

Taking into account household size, median monthly household employment income per household member rose from $3,500 in 2023 to $3,615 in 2024 – an increase of 3.3 per cent in nominal terms, or 0.8 per cent after adjusting for inflation.

From 2019 to 2024, median monthly household income per household member grew by 6.8 per cent cumulatively, or 1.3 per cent per annum in real terms.

In 2024, households across all income deciles saw increases in average household employment income per household member after adjusting for inflation.

In 2024, the average household employment income for each household member in resident employed households in all income groups rose in nominal terms, with the increases ranging from 3 per cent to 5.9 per cent.

After adjusting for inflation, the increases ranged from 0.6 per cent to 3.2 per cent.

Between 2019 and 2024, the average household employment income for each household member in resident employed households in the first nine deciles rose by 0.3 per cent to 1.9 per cent per annum in real terms, while that for households in the top decile declined by 0.7 per cent per annum.

A decile is the one-tenth of all households arranged by their incomes from lowest to highest. The last, or 10th, decile is the one-tenth of the households with the highest incomes.

More on this Topic
S’pore households earned more than they spent over the past five years: Govt surveySingaporeans’ high savings a buffer as inflation pushes up cost of living: Experts
The Gini coefficient based on household employment income per household member rose from 0.433 in 2023 to 0.435 in 2024, before taking into account assistance or benefits provided by the Government and taxes.

After such adjustments, the Gini coefficient in 2024 was 0.364, lower than the 0.371 in 2023. This is the lowest since records of the measure began in 2000, said SingStat. The Gini coefficient is a measure of income inequality. A Gini coefficient of zero occurs when there is total income equality, and one means there is total inequality.


SingStat also reported that resident households, including households with no employed person, received $7,825 per household member, on average, from government schemes in 2024.

This was higher than the $6,418 received in 2023. “This was due to measures rolled out in 2024 to support households in areas such as cost of living, retirement and healthcare needs,” said SingStat.


Resident households living in one- and two-room Housing Board flats continued to receive the most government transfers.

In 2024, they received an average of $16,805 per household member from government schemes, more than double the amount received by all resident households.

Mr Jester Koh, UOB’s associate economist, said the real median household employment income grew by a softer clip in the recent five-year period as the strong nominal growth has been largely eroded by the inflation surge since late 2021.

“This is likely driven by a confluence of factors such as the unleashing of post-pandemic pent-up demand, tightening of labour markets amid labour supply shortages, and the Russia-Ukraine war, which led to food and energy price spikes,” he said.

Going forward, the rapidly ageing population could weigh on the median household employment income growth as the labour force participation rate has been gradually declining since 2021, while the share of resident households comprising solely non-employed people aged 65 and older has been gradually ticking up, Mr Koh said.

“Nonetheless, there have been several initiatives to encourage older-age workers to continue working, such as the planned increase in the retirement age to 65 by 2030, re-employment age to 70 by 2030, as well as the Earn and Save Bonus under the Majulah Package, which should go a long way to support median household employment income trends in the long run,” he added.

Mr Song Seng Wun, economic adviser at CGS International, said median household employment income growth slowed in 2024 as the labour market normalised. This is likely the growth range for the next few years.

In contrast, there was faster growth in median monthly household employment income post-pandemic as companies started to hire again, and the economy rebounded strongly.

Those in the lower income deciles are aided by the Progressive Wage Model (PWM), Mr Song said, adding that there will be higher growth among the lower-income as more sectors are included in the PWM.

The Government’s transfers have also helped the lower-income, and helped decrease income inequality.

“This is where the Government can calibrate in terms of assistance in the upcoming Budget to help those who need the help most,” he said. “The cost of living is still rising, though inflation has slowed down.”

Associate Professor Walter Theseira from the Singapore University of Social Sciences, who is a labour economist, said higher income growth in lower deciles aligns with efforts to raise wages for lower-income Singaporeans through policies like PWM.

For the upper decile, he noted that non-employment income and capital gains, which are not included in the figures, are likely key factors for increasing income inequality, but they are not measured in the report.

“Recent strong growth in income for higher deciles outstripping the middle suggests income inequality will worsen without more government intervention,” he said.

“Policy attention will likely need to be increasingly focused on helping the broad middle – although this is always the case – given the recent pattern of how the lower-income are ‘levelling up’ and how the higher-income are enjoying above-average gains.”

Mr Chua Han Teng, an economist at DBS Bank, noted that Singapore’s real median monthly household employment income continued the increases observed in the preceding three years from 2021 to 2023.

“The sustained real income growth reflects Singapore’s economic resilience and healthy labour market performance despite rising global uncertainties,” he said.

“The ongoing decline in household income inequality reflects the Government’s policy focus on greater equality and inclusivity over the years, with government transfers providing crucial support and assurance for vulnerable groups,” he added.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

First cycling bridge in Jurong West opens; residents can walk or cycle across PIE​

‹‹

1 of 2
Cyclists biking across the new cycling bridge in Jurong West on Feb 15.ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN

2 of 2
The new 110m-long and 8m-wide overhead bridge will provide residents with a means to cross the PIE.ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN

Lee Li Ying
Feb 15, 2025, 04:50 PM

SINGAPORE - The first cycling bridge in Jurong West, which can accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists, was officially opened on Feb 15.

The new 110m-long and 8m-wide overhead bridge is a stone’s throw from block 864A Jurong West Street 81 and straddles the PIE, providing residents with a means to cross the expressway.

It will benefit 63,000 Jurong West residents by giving them easier access to the Jurong Innovation District, Nanyang Technological University, and the future MRT station at CleanTech Park.

The district is Singapore’s first mixed-use district for advanced manufacturing, where companies can tap sensors, robotics and other technological solutions to improve their business.

The bridge was officially opened by Minister for National Development Desmond Lee, who is also a West Coast GRC MP, his fellow MP Ang Wei Neng, and JTC chief executive Tan Boon Khai.

“We have worked closely with JTC over the years, and we are delighted that the widest overhead bridge in Jurong West is now pedestrian-, cyclist-, and pet-friendly, complete with a lift. It’s a testament to our commitment to creating a more connected and vibrant community,” said Mr Ang.

There is also an ongoing collaboration with the Land Transport Authority to build dedicated cycling paths around Nanyang, the ward within the group representation constituency that Mr Ang represents.

The new bridge has dedicated walking and cycling paths, and links up with the Round Island Route park connector.

JTC’s Mr Tan said that the bridge provides a link to the Jurong Innovation District, and will bring employment opportunities closer to residential areas in Jurong West.

“(The bridge) will also encourage more walking and cycling, aligning with our vision for a car-lite Jurong Innovation District. Together with the upcoming Sky Corridor and future MRT station at CleanTech Park, the bridge will revolutionise mobility and improve connectivity, linking residents to job opportunities, nature and ecosystems in the district,” said Mr Tan.

Sky Corridor is an elevated pathway within the Jurong Innovation District for pedestrians, cyclists and self-driving vehicles.

Over 1,000 residents living in the vicinity walked or cycled across it to mark the opening of the bridge. The celebrations end with a carnival at the end of the walk at JTC’s CleanTech Three with activities such as treasure hunt, longkang fishing, pottery ornament painting and pets bazaar.

Naval engineer officer Patrick Ong, 49, who just picked up cycling, said that the new bridge will cut the travel time from his home at Jurong West St 81 to amenities at the CleanTech Park from 20 minutes to 10 minutes.

“I looked at the map and the park here looks very nice. I also heard there’s some F&B outlets here. It’s quite difficult to come by last time, and now I’m keen to explore the area.”

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

All these bribes will stop after the General Elections

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

29,000 older HDB flats to be upgraded in latest round of Home Improvement Programme​

Minister for National Development Desmond Lee speaking during a Chinese New Year event in Pioneer on Feb 16.PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO

Hariz Baharudin
Feb 17, 2025

SINGAPORE – Some 29,000 flats built in 1997 or earlier have been chosen for the Housing Board’s Home Improvement Programme (HIP) and will get structural improvements and upgrades to bathrooms and entrances, among other things.

Announcing the latest round of the programme on Feb 16, HDB said home owners of these flats will be able to opt for senior-friendly fittings such as grab bars and foldable shower seats.

The 371 blocks chosen for upgrades are located in estates that include Choa Chu Kang, Pasir Ris, Tampines and Jurong West, and the Government has allocated more than $407 million for the works.

The HIP was launched in 2007 to spruce up older housing estates. As at March 31, 2024, about $4 billion has been spent on the programme.

Speaking during a Chinese New Year event on Feb 16 in Pioneer, in Jurong West, Minister for National Development Desmond Lee said that, since the launch of the HIP, 494,000 flats, or nine in 10 eligible flats, have been selected for the programme, including the latest batch.

Of these, close to 381,000 flats have been upgraded, HDB said.

“Here in Pioneer, more than 1,200 households across 10 blocks have been selected in this batch of HIP. These blocks are located opposite Jurong Point, at Blocks 687 to 696 Jurong West Central 1,” said Mr Lee.

Some of the flats from Blocks 687 to 696 in Jurong West Central 1 will be included in the Home Improvement Programme.ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN
Under the HIP, flats are shortlisted for upgrades based on their age.

A poll is then held among residents, and the works proceed only if at least 75 per cent of Singaporeans living in the blocks vote in favour of the upgrading.

The programme has two main components – essential improvements and optional improvements.

Essential improvements, such as repair of spalling concrete or structural cracks, are meant to ensure the safety of older flats, and are fully paid for by the Government for Singapore citizen households.

Optional improvements, such as new entrance doors and gates, and upgrades to toilets and bathrooms, are subsidised by the Government by up to 95 per cent, depending on the flat type.

For example, one- to three-room HDB flat owners will co-pay $599.50, with the Government’s share being $11,390.50, or 95 per cent of the cost of the full optional improvements package.


HDB said flats selected for the HIP can also opt for senior-friendly fittings such as rocker switches, handrails at flat entrances with steps and slip-resistant treatment to toilet floor tiles.

Such senior-friendly upgrades come under the Enhancement for Active Seniors (Ease) programme.

HDB said that since the programme was launched in 2012, about 340,000 households have benefited, and more than $150 million has been spent on such upgrades as at March 31, 2024.

Residents who need such upgrades but whose blocks do not qualify for the HIP can still apply for the improvements under the Ease (Direct Application) programme at the HDB website. A site survey will be conducted before the installation of the items.

“Collectively, these improvements help to enhance the safety and comfort of residents living in HDB flats, enabling more of our seniors to age in place, within their homes and community that they are familiar with,” said HDB.

Residents looking at information on the HIP programme in Jurong West on Feb 16.ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN
Speaking on the sidelines of the event on Feb 16, Pioneer MP Patrick Tay said that the selected blocks in Pioneer will be the constituency’s first blocks to undergo the HIP. While Pioneer is a newer estate overall, some of its blocks are about 30 years old, he said.

“Some of the residents have (given) feedback on the HIP (that will soon take place),” he said, adding that he was happy with the announcement.

One of the residents who will benefit is Mr Alan Tan, 60, who has lived in Pioneer for more than 22 years. He said that the HIP upgrades will make the estate safer for his elderly parents.

“The toilet (has some) wear and tear, and it is especially slippery. I heard that there will be anti-slip flooring in the toilet, so I am glad they are doing this,” said Mr Tan.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

PM Wong unveils bumper SG60 Budget for all Singaporeans​

PM Wong, who is also Finance Minister, said the Budget will address current challenges like cost pressures.ST PHOTO: CHONG JUN LIANG

Goh Yan Han
Feb 18, 2025

SINGAPORE – Every Singaporean will receive something from Budget 2025, from vouchers for all adults to personal income tax rebates as part of an SG60 package.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Feb 18 unveiled what he termed “a Budget for all Singaporeans”, which includes expanding existing schemes to benefit more citizens and greater support for seniors as well as the vulnerable.

He also set out measures to grow Singapore’s economy, help workers upskill and meet its green targets.

The broad suite of measures announced tally up to a record $143.1 billion, an increase from the $134.2 billion spent in the 2024 financial year.

This is about 18.7 per cent of Singapore’s gross domestic product, and is in line with projected trends for government spending that is expected to reach about 20 per cent of GDP by 2030.

The moves are financed by changes to the tax system made earlier in this parliamentary term that put Singapore “on a stronger fiscal footing”, and larger-than-expected revenue collections.

Corporate income tax collections were more than expected in the 2024 financial year. It is now the single largest contributor to total government revenue, higher than the net investment returns contribution (NIRC), said PM Wong as he set out the Government’s fiscal position. The NIRC refers to the returns on investments of Singapore’s reserves.

He expects a surplus of $6.8 billion, or 0.9 per cent of GDP, for the 2025 financial year.

“When Singapore thrives, every citizen benefits,” said PM Wong, who is also Finance Minister.

“Every Singaporean is supported from birth to old age, with more support given to those with less. No one is left behind.”

PM Wong said the Budget was “shaped together with all Singaporeans”. It lays out the second instalment of plans on the Forward Singapore agenda, which seeks to keep society strong and united.

He noted that Singapore has to navigate a turbulent external environment, with the US and China locked in a fierce contest for global supremacy. Despite the global uncertainties, the Republic can look ahead with a degree of confidence as it is far stronger than it was 60 years ago, he added.

Noting that 2025 marks the country’s 60th year of independence, PM Wong said: “It has been a remarkable journey, reflecting the grit and resilience of generations of Singaporeans in building our nation.”

He announced a new SG60 package to recognise the contributions of all Singaporeans and share the benefits of the nation’s progress.

In July, all Singaporeans aged 21 to 59 will receive $600 in SG60 vouchers, while those aged 60 and above will get $800. These will function like CDC vouchers.

Under the package, individuals will also get a 60 per cent personal income tax rebate, capped at $200.

All Singaporean babies born this year will get a SG60 Baby Gift, PM Wong added, among other measures in the package.

The hotly anticipated Budget, which comes ahead of an upcoming general election widely expected by mid-year, also tackles top-of-mind issues for Singaporeans such as cost of living pressures and job insecurity.

To alleviate rising costs, PM Wong announced another $800 of CDC Vouchers for all Singaporean households.

The first $500 will be given out in May 2025, while the remaining $300 will be issued in January 2026.


He also announced more utility rebates and credits for families with children to defray household expenses.

While inflation is expected to ease further in 2025, PM Wong acknowledged that Singaporeans are still adjusting to new price realities. “We will continue to provide support for as long as needed, within our means,” he said.

To help parents who have or plan to have three or more children, PM Wong detailed a new Large Families Scheme.

The scheme will disburse $16,000 to such families for each third and subsequent child born from Feb 18, and help to cover pre-school and healthcare expenses as well as household spending.

PM Wong also announced that several schemes will be extended to private property owners, including the climate vouchers programme which all Housing Board households can currently tap to buy energy- and water-efficient household appliances.

HDB households will get an additional $100, on top of the $300 they received last year, while households in private properties will get $400 in climate vouchers.

The Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) scheme that provides subsidised senior-friendly fittings and installations in HDB households will be extended to private property households up to 2028, said PM Wong.

While the Government has taken measures to mitigate the impact of rising costs, the best way in the longer term to adjust to higher prices is to grow the economy and increase productivity, said PM Wong.

Dedicating a significant portion of his Budget speech to new moves to grow the economy, he announced more funding for research and development and a new $1 billion fund to provide more financing options for high-growth local enterprises.


At the same time, workers must be equipped with the skills needed to stay competitive and relevant, said PM Wong.

He said that the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme, announced in 2024 to support mid-career Singaporeans who are upskilling full-time, will also be extended to part-time training.

The Workfare Skills Support scheme, which currently covers short courses for lower-wage workers, will have an enhanced tier of support that covers longer-form courses, he added.


The Prime Minister also outlined measures to support more vulnerable groups of workers, including older workers, ex-offenders looking to reintegrate into society, and persons with disabilities.

PM Wong said the Budget also lays the groundwork for the country to become stronger and more resilient.

It includes measures to tackle climate change, like a $5 billion top up to the Coastal and Flood Protection Fund. The fund covers long-term plans such as land reclamation for Long Island and structures like sea walls and tidal gates.


Singapore will need to have its own domestic sources of clean power to ensure greater energy resilience, PM Wong said, adding that the country will study the potential deployment of nuclear power and take further steps to systematically build up capabilities in this area.

Apart from plans to access more sources of clean energy, the government will accelerate efforts to decarbonise the transport sector, he said.

It will roll out a new emissions scheme and electric charging grant to incentivise the purchase of clean energy variants of heavy vehicles. Adoption of such vehicles has been slower compared with that of electric and hybrid cars.

Singapore will continue to improve its public transport system, said PM Wong, noting that $60 billion will be invested in this decade to grow and renew the rail network.

“We are continuing to study how our rail network can be expanded,” he added.


Concluding his speech, PM Wong said Singaporeans have to brace themselves for new challenges in the next phase of nation-building.

The country has confronted tough external circumstances repeatedly over the last six decades, and “we can draw confidence from what we’ve been through together”, he added.

At every turn, Singaporeans have chosen determination over despair, innovation over stagnation, and solidarity over division, said PM Wong.

“Budget 2025 sets out clear plans for us to continue this journey with confidence.”

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

Budget 2025 both generous and responsible, say experts​

Measures in the Budget for hawkers show Singapore is committed to preserving its hawker culture, said an expert.ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
Anjali Raguraman and Hariz Baharudin
Feb 19, 2025

SINGAPORE – From private home owners and hawkers to those interested in sports and the arts, the Budget measures announced on Feb 18 provide support across diverse segments of society, reinforcing Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s promise of a “Budget for all Singaporeans”.

Experts, observers and MPs told The Straits Times that the speech was notably comprehensive, reflecting the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no Singaporean would be left behind.

Several noted how the announcements made by PM Wong cast the spotlight on groups that are not typically featured, highlighting its inclusivity and broad reach.

Calling it an “even-handed approach Budget” that focuses on the social dimension as well as the economic dimension, Singapore Management University (SMU) law don Eugene Tan said that Budget 2025 seeks to get the balance right in dealing with top-of-mind concerns.

“It also attempts to recognise the concerns, needs and aspirations of different generations, as well as ensures the equitable distribution of the country’s wealth between those in public and private housing,” he said.

Experts noted that several giveaways are extended to private property owners, a group that sometimes feels left out when goodies are distributed.

PM Wong announced that all Singaporean families living in private property will receive $400 worth of vouchers to buy eco-friendly household appliances as an expansion of the existing Climate Friendly Households Programme.

Separately, he also said that the Enhancement for Active Seniors programme, which sees the Government pay for upgrades to homes to be fitted with age-friendly features, will also be extended to seniors living in private property.

Private home owners are often perceived as being able to take care of themselves, but the announcements show that some of them could be in need of help, said Mr Song Seng Wun, economic adviser at CGS International.

“Many are asset-rich but cash-poor. Because we have fiscal flexibility, the Government can afford to extend some support,” he said.

A slice of the Budget pie is set aside for hawkers, which shows that Singapore is committed to preserving its hawker culture, said Mr Song.

PM Wong announced $600 in one-time rental support for each hawker stall in centres managed by the Government or government-appointed operators.

In addition, up to $1 billion will be allocated over the next 20 to 30 years to the upgrading of ageing hawker centres and the building of new ones.

“Placing the measures for hawkers in the same statement as other key measures in the Budget gives it a certain importance,” said Mr Song.

Former offenders are another group that will benefit from Budget 2025. PM Wong said that the Uplifting Employment Credit, which provides a wage offset of up to 20 per cent of local former offenders’ wages for the first nine months, will be extended by another three years.

Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC MP Saktiandi Supaat, who is also Maybank’s head of foreign exchange research, said that this is good news, given how he has been advocating more support for former offenders.

Mr Saktiandi said that, together with targeted measures like additional financial support for large families and those in the middle-income groups, the Budget is a “forward-looking” one that extends assistance to those who need it.

“The broader aim of the announcements is to provide targeted help where needed,” he said.

Experts noted that Singapore’s strong fiscal position allows for more wiggle room for spending on other areas of Singaporean lives, such as arts and sports.

Referencing the newly introduced SG Culture Pass that will be rolled out in September 2025, CGS International’s Mr Song noted that Singapore has “reached a stage where we can have better work-life balance”.

In June, there will be a one-off $100 ActiveSG credit top-up to encourage participation in sports.

“(The Government is) spending on how to improve the way we work, how we play... Especially since people are living longer, work-life balance has become more important,” he said.

Given that the Budget came ahead of the upcoming general election, observers told ST that generous giveaways were largely anticipated.

But they noted that the measures also signal a long-term strategy to support everyday Singaporeans, families, workers and businesses amid an increasingly complex global landscape.

Associate Professor Tan Ern Ser, adjunct principal research fellow at IPS Social Lab, highlighted the quantum of CDC and SG60 vouchers announced in Budget 2025.

PM Wong announced that some 1.3 million Singaporean households will each get $800 in CDC vouchers, with $500 to be disbursed in May and the remaining $300 in January 2026.

All Singaporeans aged between 21 and 59 in 2025 will also get a one-time $600 handout in the form of SG60 vouchers, while seniors aged 60 and above will get $800.

“The amount of CDC vouchers for households, together with the SG60 vouchers for individuals, does come across as rather generous,” said Prof Tan.

The rising cost of living was addressed by the Budget, said Mr Yip Hon Weng, MP for Yio Chu Kang, who called the amount given out in the various vouchers “quite substantial”.

“There is a cost-of-living issue. The vouchers will come in handy for those really feeling the pressure daily. I think it will be well received on the ground,” he said.

SMU’s Prof Tan said that the announcement of the vouchers suggests that the Government recognises the persistent issue of costs, and that this is likely to be a significant issue in the upcoming general election.

The vouchers will help to some extent, but the feeling persists that Singapore has become too expensive, he added.

“The irony of the handouts is that the Budget statement seems to confirm this perception. Moreover, such help will be seen more as ‘Band-Aid’ and (the question is) whether the root causes can be better addressed,” said Prof Tan.

More on this Topic
Budget 2025: All you need to know about the eight SG60 goodies, and how to get themBudget 2025: A bonanza Budget with no pain, and no red ink
Most observers agreed that despite the generous giveaways, the Government is still spending responsibly and within its means.

Mr Song said that it is common for politicians around the world to give out more handouts ahead of an election. “The key difference is that Singapore is spending within its means – using what we have today, not borrowing from the future,” he said.

Business associations such as the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce (SICC) said that this is a Budget that comes from a position of fiscal strength, and one with a vision to maintain that strength.

This would enable Singapore to address longer-term issues such as a rapidly ageing population, while staying nimble in a tough international environment.

“No segment of citizen society is left behind in this well-constructed, generous and impactful Budget... It balances short-term needs with long-term infrastructural and societal needs,” SICC said.

“It is bold, and demonstrates a government operating from a position of strength in the interests of the citizens of this country and its economy.”

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

An election Budget? Maybe not in the way you think​

Tham Yuen-C

PM Lawrence Wong unveiled a bonanza of vouchers, credits, tax rebates and top-ups for Singaporeans on Feb 18.ILLUSTRATION: CHNG CHOON HIONG, ADOBE STOCK
Feb 19, 2025

SINGAPORE - There is little doubt Budget 2025 is an election Budget.

After all, we are in an election year, with the constitutional deadline to go to the polls in November.

Of course, Budgets are dubbed election Budgets not just because they happen to fall in an election year.

The phrase is bandied about whenever there are goodies galore, and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Feb 18 unveiled a bonanza of vouchers, credits, tax rebates and top-ups for Singaporeans.

To celebrate Singapore’s 60th year of independence, he introduced an SG60 package to recognise the contributions of all Singaporeans and to share the benefits of the nation’s progress. Under the package’s headline measure, every Singaporean adult will get $600 worth of SG60 vouchers, with seniors aged 60 and older getting $200 more.

Every Singaporean household will get an additional $800 in CDC vouchers to provide relief from rising cost pressures, as Singaporeans adjust to the new price realities caused by the sharp rise in global inflation when the war in Ukraine broke out.

“We will continue to provide support for as long as needed, within our means,” PM Wong said, adding that inflation in Singapore has already come down and is expected to ease further.

These two voucher schemes alone will cost the Government about $3 billion.

In addition, there will be a 60 per cent personal income tax rebate capped at $200 for Year of Assessment 2025, designed to benefit those who earn less, as well as SG Culture Pass credits and ActiveSG credits for people to pay for cultural and sporting pursuits.

Children will also benefit, in the form of $500 in LifeSG Credits for the younger ones aged 12 and below, and $500 in Edusave and Post-Secondary Education Account top-ups for those who are 13 to 20 years old.

Even Singaporeans living in private property will get more this year. For the first time, they, too, will get climate vouchers worth $400.

It is a Budget that truly lives up to the tagline of a “Budget for all Singaporeans”.

Such largesse is often viewed with suspicion, drawing refrains of “election Budget”. The implication is that the goodies will result in a better showing at the voting booth.

But this connection is perhaps too simplistic, given that voters are motivated by different concerns. If past Budgets in election years are any guide, Budget goodies have not always resulted in better outcomes at the polls for the ruling party.

In the 2011 Budget, for instance, up to $800 in growth dividends was handed out to every Singaporean. The general election that year was when the PAP lost a group representation constituency for the first time.

It is perhaps also an overly cynical view of the Government, since the extra money given out at such end-of-term Budgets has more to do with prudent husbandry and cumulative surpluses.

Under the Constitution, the Government has to balance the Budget over its full term. It already knows it will end the 2024 financial year with a surplus of $6.4 billion, and expects to end the 2025 financial year with an even bigger surplus of $6.8 billion.

Surpluses earned in one term of government cannot be carried over to the new term of government, which means the Government can afford to be more generous and give back some of the extras to Singaporeans.

But a focus on just the hongbao and handouts would be missing the wood for the trees.

For the Budget goes beyond appealing to individual interests, to ensuring that Singapore can lay the groundwork for a better future.

To this end, PM Wong also announced measures to tip the balance in Singapore’s favour and overcome challenges.

Bold moves were made in this Budget to enhance Singapore’s enterprise ecosystem. A Global Founder Programme will be launched later this year to encourage experienced entrepreneurs to anchor and start new ventures in Singapore.

There is also the new Enterprise Compute Initiative that will put in up to $150 million to help businesses access computing power so they can leverage artificial intelligence to transform.

On the infrastructure front, another $5 billion will be set aside to top up the Changi Airport Development Fund, so that Singapore can sustain its position as an air hub – a key pillar in the nation’s hub-economy strategy.

Looking further ahead, PM Wong also announced measures to protect Singapore against climate risks such as coastal flooding and to improve energy resilience through studying the potential deployment of nuclear energy here, among other things. The Coastal and Flood Protection Fund and the Future Energy Fund will each receive a $5 billion top-up.

There are also concrete steps taken to further strengthen the social support system, such as higher subsidies for long-term care services for seniors and for adult disability services.

Although PM Wong, who has been Finance Minister since 2021, has announced three other Budgets previously, this one has added significance.

It is his first as both Prime Minister and Finance Minister, and the moves unveiled will further make concrete the vision – first painted in the Forward Singapore exercise he led – of a nation that is dynamic, caring and inclusive, where people have good jobs, and where no one is left behind.

As PM Wong said, the 2025 Budget incorporates the aspirations and views of Singaporeans.

So, while the goodies will be welcomed by those dealing with cost-of-living pressures and other immediate concerns, this Budget is much more than that.

As a Budget for all Singaporeans, it goes beyond immediate gratification and prepares the ground for longer-term goals.

And that may just be what an election Budget calls for.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

Private property residents cheer news of climate vouchers and ageing-friendly fittings​

Come April, Singaporean families living in private housing will be able to use $400 worth of climate vouchers to buy certain household appliances.ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
Syarafana Shafeeq and Isabelle Liew
Feb 22, 2025

SINGAPORE – For several months now, Madam Lee has been thinking about buying a new refrigerator but she said cash has been tight.

The 69-year-old homemaker lives in a semi-detached home in Frankel Estate with her husband, who is retired.

While her neighbours have renovated their homes, hers remains in the same state it was when she bought it about 40 years ago.

Her current fridge is old and does not work well. Madam Lee said she would like to replace the fridge, which she purchased some years back.

“How can I ask for help? People will just tell me to sell my house for money,” said Madam Lee, who declined to give her full name.

Come April, she will be among the many Singaporean families living in private housing who will be able to use $400 worth of climate vouchers to buy certain household appliances.

These vouchers were previously offered only to Housing Board flat dwellers.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced in his Budget speech on Feb 18 that the programme will be expanded to private property residents.

The vouchers under the Climate Friendly Households Programme can be used to buy energy- and water-efficient appliances and fittings, such as air-conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators.

A subsidised home enhancement scheme for seniors was also extended to those in private property.

Under the Enhancement for Active Seniors (Ease) programme, seniors are able to install a range of ageing-friendly fittings like grab bars and ramps in their homes at a government-subsidised cost.

Residents who spoke to The Straits Times said they were surprised at the change.

They feel that asset-rich but cash-poor folks who bought their properties long ago are often overlooked.

Retired teacher Mr Luke, who also declined to give his full name, has lived in Jalan Naung since 1968.

He purchased his home, where he lives with his 74-year-old wife and daughter, for less than $10,000. It was renovated about 10 years ago.

Mr Luke, 79, said he had felt left out of the benefits in previous years.

About six months ago, he broke his leg from a fall and had to install handrails and grab bars in his home, which set him back by more than $1,500.

Mr Luke said: “Seniors in landed properties also need help, and it’s pricey to get the fixtures installed.

“Just because our property is valued at a certain amount doesn’t mean we have the money – we will only unlock it if we sell, but we have no intention to do so.

“It’s good that the Government is now looking at it from a different perspective.”

Madam Ang, 74, a long-time resident in East Coast Road, said she worries that she will eventually need a wheelchair to move around in her terraced home.

She said: “My children support me, but they also have their own lives. I was happy to hear about the Ease scheme.

“At least I won’t have to ask my children for money to install ramps if I can’t walk any more.”

Though she understands why many government schemes are not extended to private property residents, she said that for many seniors, the help would lift many burdens.

“My house is worth a lot, but how can I sell it? My memories with my late husband are all here. I don’t care about the money,” she said.

More on this Topic
The asset-rich, cash-poor have a housing dilemma32 private estates in S'pore to undergo $135m upgrading over next 5 years
MPs of areas with older private estates told ST that the Budget announcements were welcomed.

MP for West Coast GRC Ang Wei Neng said the climate vouchers are expected to be well-utilised by private estate residents.

He added that many residents who have not renovated their toilets in decades will benefit from the Ease programme.

“Many of these residents, though asset-rich, may be cash-poor and this programme will provide much-needed support to improve their living conditions.”

Ms Cheryl Chan, an MP for East Coast GRC, said she had requested that the Ease programme be extended to other residents in the past as there are many seniors living in condominiums and landed homes who could benefit.

She said: “If residents were to do it on their own, it would be costly as it’s a tiny project, and contractors may not be interested.”

For seniors living in landed homes, ramps would be necessary to make their homes accessible if they are in wheelchairs, she said.

The climate vouchers also enable more people to be aware about the environment, regardless of what property they live in, she added.

Madam Mona Cheah, who has lived in Lakeside Grove for 20 years, said that if the objective of the climate vouchers is to encourage people to use more energy-efficient devices, the vouchers should be given out across the board.

“How does where you stay affect the objective of the programme?” said the 65-year-old.

Other than potentially upgrading their homes, residents from 32 private estates in Singapore can also look forward to new or improved facilities in their neighbourhoods with the Estate Upgrading Programme (EUP).

The upgrading works, which were announced by Minister for National Development Desmond Lee on Feb 8, will cost $135 million.

MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC Alvin Tan said that the area covered in the EUP is significant and will benefit a lot of residents.

Residents of Balmoral have asked for better links between the estate and Singapore Botanic Gardens, as well as the widening of footpaths for wheelchair users and those with prams.

“EUP is a good opportunity to make real improvements for our residents.”

Seven of the estates chosen have a higher concentration of the elderly, and will get senior-friendly upgrades like wayfinding features, community gardens and facilities for active ageing programmes.

Seniors in Fengshan, one of the estates chosen, have said they would like for the path connecting the private estate to the market to be sheltered, Ms Chan said.

She said she hopes the upgrading works will ensure that the estate’s exercise corner is senior-friendly and inter-generational.

“We want seniors to come out of their homes and use these spaces, and it would bring some life to it if there are facilities for children.”

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

Tampines Town Council launches 5-year masterplan to enhance regional centre​

An artist’s impression of the revitalised Tampines regional centre. The new infrastructure in the masterplan includes a pedestrian route between Tampines MRT station and the malls in the town.PHOTO: TAMPINES TOWN COUNCIL
Wong Pei Ting
Feb 23, 2025

SINGAPORE – Residents living in Tampines will see new infrastructure introduced to cement its position as Singapore’s most well-connected town.

By 2027, residents will have a cycling bridge, an underpass and another 7.7km of cycling paths, which will bring the total to 40km.

The additions, announced on Feb 22, are part of Tampines Town Council’s five-year masterplan for 2025 to 2030.

Tampines was described as Singapore’s most well-connected regional centre in a book on urbanisation launched in 2024.

The town council said everything residents need in the town is already just a short walk, cycle or public transport ride away.

The new infrastructure, which includes a pedestrian route between Tampines MRT station and the malls in the town, will add to the regional centre’s status as Singapore’s most well-connected 20-minute town.

A 20-minute town is where all journeys to the nearest neighbourhood centre using public, active and shared modes of transport can be completed in under 20 minutes.

The new infrastructure will cement the regional centre’s status as Singapore’s most well-connected 20-minute town.PHOTO: TAMPINES TOWN COUNCIL
It is one of the targets of the Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) Land Transport Master Plan 2040.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli said the masterplan sets the stage for Tampines to become a people-first town centre.

In an accompanying statement, the Tampines Town Council said residents will be roped in to help Tampines become a pedestrian-friendly town centre with “world-class streets”.

The creation of a pedestrian-friendly town centre is already taking shape.

Among other things, LTA has been exploring the transformation of part of Tampines Central 5 into a pedestrianised street between the malls in Tampines Town Centre and Tampines MRT station.

The town council’s plan will add to this.

Mr Masagos, an MP for Tampines GRC, who is also Second Minister for Health and Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, said agencies are also studying plans for a new integrated transport hub that will anchor a seamless pedestrian and active-mobility network.

“Within this new integrated transport hub, your family could stroll through lively streets of shops, hip cafes and lush greenery,” he added, painting a picture of pedestrian-friendly streets similar to those in major cities like Osaka.

Tampines Town Council launched its five-year masterplan titled "Building Our Tampines Home Together, Now and Always" on Feb 22.ST PHOTO: SHINTARO TAY
With the fully pedestrian-friendly town centre, Mr Masagos said there “will be no need to fight for parking – because when you live, when you work, when you play in Tampines, you can do so without a car”.

He said this is already a reality today, adding: “We can already walk across the proposed and renewed town centre in five minutes and cycle from anywhere in Tampines to the town centre in 10 minutes.

“Our town centre will be a model of living green... This isn’t just a dream.”

More broadly, the town council said it would continue to consult residents on how they want community spaces to be designed.

At the launch, it laid out what more than 1,200 Tampines residents said they wish to see incorporated in future public spaces from its latest round of engagements.

They include “play spaces”, with features that nurture children’s problem-solving and creative skills, and amenities that promote wellness and relieve stress beyond building fitness and health.

The wish list also includes senior-friendly features that promote active ageing, as well as designs that reflect the neighbourhood’s identity.

The town council said the reimagined Tampines Central Park will feature a play zone for families to bond, multi-generational fitness amenities and multi-sports play courts.

The park links Our Tampines Hub and Tampines Street 83.

The town council said that while co-creating liveable community spaces is a priority, taking care of seniors is still at the heart of its vision for a more inclusive and caring Tampines.

The plans include new infrastructure and amenities with elderly-friendly features, such as upcycled MRT seats under linkways to provide more resting spots as residents go about their errands.

The town council is also looking to have more overhead bridges with lifts and barrier-free access, and to incorporate more safety features on roads to make the streets in Tampines safer.

The town council added that the five-year masterplan for 2025 to 2030 is a “bold vision for Tampines, with transformative urban developments that will take the town to greater heights”.

Mr Masagos said the journey ahead “calls for bold vision, unwavering effort, and the collective effort of us all”.

“But if history has shown us anything at all, Tampines always leads the way. Together, we will not just build a town. We will build a legacy,” he added.

Tampines’ five-year plan was announced next to the new Tampines Boulevard Park, which was designed with residents’ inputs in 2020.

The park, in the Tampines North area, is a “testament to promises delivered by the Tampines team” in the last five years as its elected representatives, said the town council.

The launch on Feb 22 was attended by three other Tampines MPs.

They are: Dr Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State for Manpower and Sustainability and the Environment; Mr Desmond Choo, who serves as Mayor of North East District; and Mr Baey Yam Keng, who is Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and the Environment and Transport.

Dr Charlene Chen – a People’s Action Party (PAP) new face who has been featured on banners with the elected Tampines MPs – was at the launch as well.

Dr Chen, an academic, is currently second adviser for Tampines GRC grassroots organisations.

Tampines MPs planting a tree with Dr Charlene Chen (far right) at the launch of the five-year masterplan titled “Building Our Tampines Home Together, Now and Always” on Feb 22.ST PHOTO: SHINTARO TAY
Another new face, Mr Gabriel Lam, the chief operating officer of Shalom Movers, a Singapore-based moving company founded by his father, was also spotted at the event.

He posed for photos with Dr Koh, as the Tampines MPs spent the morning planting 60 trees at the Tampines Boulevard Park to celebrate SG60.

Mr Lam also walked with the MPs as they toured an exhibit laying out the plans for Tampines, and sat in the front row with the MPs when Mr Masagos spoke.

Shalom Movers chief operating officer Gabriel Lam (left) seated in the front row two seats away from Tampines MPs Baey Yam Keng, Koh Poh Koon, Masagos Zulkifli and Desmond Choo, and PAP new face Charlene Chen.ST PHOTO: WONG PEI TING
Mr Lam declined to comment when asked if he will be fielded in the upcoming general election, which must be held by November.

He told The Straits Times that he has been involved in Tampines for almost a year.

He said he attended the event on Feb 22, as he chairs the management committee of the Tampines Boulevard Community Club, which is expected to be ready in 2029.

Located along Tampines Avenue 11, the CC – set to be Tampines’ sixth – is built to serve those living in the new public housing flats and upcoming executive condominiums in Tampines North.

It will be part of a mixed-use development housing a shopping mall, bus interchange, MRT station, hawker centre and residential units.

The tender for the mixed-use development was recently awarded to CapitaLand and UOL.

Dr Koh Poh Koon and Mr Gabriel Lam take a photograph with grassroots volunteers as they planted 60 trees to celebrate SG60 in Tampines on Feb 22, 2025.ST PHOTO: WONG PEI TING
Speaking to reporters, Mr Choo said the slate of candidates for Tampines GRC will be decided by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

“Our focus has always been to do our very best and work very hard up to the point where the Prime Minister will decide,” he said.

He added that the role of the MPs is to lay out an implementable plan that has the weight and trust of residents behind it.

“We have delivered over the years.

“This has given our residents assurance that as long as the Tampines team is united, together with our residents, we can indeed deliver these promises,” he said.

Asked when the Osaka-like pedestrianised shopping street in Tampines will be ready, Mr Choo said the effort will kick off with a feedback-gathering exercise among residents.

The town council will then work with government agencies to pull off the plan.

“In Tampines, we always believe that the agencies here do not have a monopoly on good ideas,” Mr Choo added.

“It is best that we work collectively, consult widely, and involve as many residents as we can.

“It’s something that will take time, but ultimately, I think, will be worth the time and effort.”

In 2020, the PAP team helmed by Mr Masagos retained Tampines GRC with 66.4 per cent of the vote in the last election against the National Solidarity Party.

This was lower than its score in 2015, when it won 72.1 per cent with then Education Minister Heng Swee Keat as the constituency’s anchor minister.

Mr Heng, who was in the running to be the next prime minister back in 2020, left to strengthen the slate at the adjacent East Coast GRC, facing the Workers’ Party.

The fifth elected MP for Tampines GRC was Ms Cheng Li Hui who vacated her seat at Tampines East in July 2023 following her affair with then Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

New $5 billion scheme by MAS to boost SGX-listed stocks as part of measures to revive S’pore market​

Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance Chee Hong Tat (centre) announced the scheme on Feb 21.ST PHOTO: DESMOND WEE
Sue-Ann Tan and Timothy Goh
Feb 22, 2025

SINGAPORE - A review group set up to strengthen the local stock market has announced new initiatives aimed at increasing interest from both retail and institutional investors, while also improving trading liquidity.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) will launch a $5 billion programme through which it will partner with selected fund managers to invest in Singapore stocks, it said on Feb 21.

Regulations will also be streamlined to make the listing process more efficient, and to be more focused and facilitative of listings, MAS said.

The updates come in addition to tax incentives announced in Budget 2025 to get more companies and fund managers to list on the Singapore Exchange (SGX), as part of measures to boost the local equities market.

The aim is to cultivate more quality initial public offerings (IPOs) to pique investor interest, as well as build a greater range of Singapore-focused funds to boost institutional activity and shareholder involvement in listed companies, MAS said.

The measures announced are also expected to encourage broader investor participation in the local stock market beyond the 30 counters listed on the Straits Times Index, MAS said.

Second Minister for Finance Chee Hong Tat said the focus was on making the local stock market attractive to companies in Singapore and the region that may not be able to sustain investor interest in bigger exchanges in the United States.


“Our approach was to look at the feedback and ideas that we have received, and also to work on strengthening the foundations and the elements of our equities market,” said Mr Chee, who is also Transport Minister and MAS deputy chairman.

“We are not looking for just one silver bullet, because there isn’t one. We want our approach to be comprehensive, holistic. So we want to try and address different aspects of the market that can have a positive impact on the overall attractiveness and competitiveness.”

The $5 billion Equity Market Development Programme (EQDP) that the MAS will launch will be funded from its investment portfolio and the Financial Sector Development Fund, which provides grants to firms and individuals in the financial services sector.

The programme will invest in a range of funds managed by local as well as foreign fund managers based in Singapore.

Eligible fund strategies include those that invest in Singapore equities, or invest a substantial component in Singapore equities as part of a regional or thematic focus.

The strategies should be actively managed, commercially viable and work towards attracting capital from other commercial investors including institutional funds, family offices and other private entities, MAS added.

MAS will start the process of evaluating eligible fund managers and strategies over the next few months.

The EQDP will be complemented by tax exemptions, such as those on a fund manager’s qualifying income derived from funds investing substantially in Singapore-listed equities, as announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in the 2025 Budget statement.

The Global Investor Programme will be calibrated to support more capital inflows into Singapore-listed equities.

This programme was set up to attract entrepreneurs, business owners and high-net-worth individuals who are interested in making significant investments in Singapore. It also requires applicants to invest in Singapore’s economy through business expansion or funds managed here, thereby fostering economic growth, MAS said.

Currently, the programme’s applicants investing under the Family Office option must establish a single family office with assets under management of at least $200 million.

Of that, a minimum of $50 million must be deployed into qualifying investment categories consisting of listed equities, real estate investment trusts, and other non-listed Singapore-based operating companies, among others.

Going forward, the qualifying investment categories will be narrowed to only equities listed on approved Singapore exchanges, MAS said.

In addition, MAS will expand the research development grant scheme under its Grant for Equity Market Singapore (Gems), which was introduced in 2019 to support listings and expand the equity research ecosystem here.

To boost the local markets, the review group recommended an expansion of Gems’ research grant to include research coverage on pre-IPO companies and mid- and small-cap enterprises.

MAS said: “Expanding research coverage to pre-IPO companies helps raise awareness of pre-IPO companies, which better supports investor demand and valuations when such companies eventually IPO in Singapore.

“This will strengthen the pipeline of quality listings, and support research on new high-growth sectors like technology, sustainability, and fintech and innovation.”

More details will be released around mid-2025.

The review group also recommended adopting a more business-friendly regulatory stance, alongside other measures to strengthen investor confidence by moving the SGX towards a more disclosure-based regime.

This means companies seeking to list here are required to provide detailed information about their business, financials, risks, and other material information, allowing investors to make informed decisions, as opposed to merit-based regimes, where a company’s qualifications or profitability are assessed before allowing the listing.

“Singapore’s listing process will be significantly more efficient and streamlined than now and will compare favourably with leading financial hubs in the world,” MAS said, adding that regulations will now be more focused and facilitative of listings.

The first set of measures includes consolidating listing suitability and the reviewing of IPO prospectus disclosures under Singapore Exchange Regulation (SGX RegCo).

This will provide prospective issuers with greater clarity on the listing process and timeline, as they would only need to engage with one regulator, MAS said.

Instead of taking a merit-based approach to how issuers should mitigate any risks prior to listing, SGX RegCo will focus on ensuring that the disclosure of material issues is sufficient for informed decision-making by investors.

Core disclosure requirements will be retained, with emphasis on clear disclosure of the most relevant and material information to investors.

With this approach, MAS said that issuers will be able to expect the typical listing review process to take six to eight weeks, but with “less uncertainty”. Issuers currently undergo a review process of similar length.

The process for listed companies seeking to do a secondary listing in Singapore using disclosure documents from their primary listing will also be simplified.

SGX RegCo will adopt a “more targeted” approach to post-listing queries, alerts and trading suspensions.

It said that public queries and alerts can have “unintended and disruptive” effects on the trading of issuers’ shares and the new approach will facilitate market discipline while ensuring investor protection.

SGX RegCo will also consult the public on a proposal to remove its financial watch list.

Mainboard-listed companies that record pre-tax losses for the three most recently completed consecutive financial years, and have an average daily market capitalisation of less than $40 million over the last six months, are placed on the list.

Listing rules state that a company on the watch list has to record consolidated pre-tax profit for the most recently completed financial year, and also needs to have an average daily market capitalisation of $40 million or more over the preceding six months, in order to exit the watch list.

MAS and SGX RegCo will issue detailed consultations on these proposals by mid-2025.

The review group will also consider other proposals beyond the measures announced, such as strengthening investor protection and developing cross-border partnerships, MAS said.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

New flyover connecting Bayshore with ECP to be completed by 2030​

The Land Transport Authority said works are expected to begin in 2026, and will be ready in phases from 2029.ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO

Esther Loi
Feb 24, 2025, 10:47 PM

SINGAPORE – Come 2030, residents in Bayshore will be able to use a new vehicular flyover to travel from Bedok South Road to the ECP expressway.

The new Bayshore Flyover will serve existing and new developments in Bayshore, Upper East Coast and other areas in the east of Singapore by improving connectivity, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) told The Straits Times on Feb 24.

LTA said works are expected to begin in 2026, and will be completed in phases from 2029. The works are expected to be fully completed in 2030.

By the mid-2030s, Bayshore will house 10,000 new homes – 7,000 Housing Board flats and 3,000 private housing units. Among these are flats from two Build-To-Order projects, Bayshore Vista and Bayshore Palms, which were launched for sale in October 2024 and will be ready by the second quarter of 2029.

Based on tender documents published by LTA on government procurement website GeBiz on Feb 18, the works will also entail the construction of a dual four-lane road connecting Bayshore Avenue to the new flyover.

The ECP will be widened with the addition of a city-bound lane near Laguna Flyover.

Other road upgrades include new slip roads at two junctions in Bayshore Road, a pedestrian staircase linking the new Bayshore Flyover to East Coast Park, and cycling paths along the flyover and towards East Coast Park.

A new vehicular flyover will be constructed to extend Bedok South Road to the ECP between Laguna Flyover and Tanah Merah Flyover. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO
The documents also show that LTA is planning to build four bus stops in Bayshore Drive, where a 400m “transit priority corridor” will be located. This corridor will feature bus-only lanes, footpaths, cycling paths and wider sheltered pavements.

LTA said that along with the new Bayshore MRT station and the upcoming Bedok South MRT station on the Thomson-East Coast Line, these improvements will provide residents of new developments in Bayshore, Bedok and Upper East Coast with greater convenience and connectivity.

Bedok South station will open in the second half of 2026.

More details about the planned improvements will be provided when the contract is awarded in the second half of 2025, noted LTA.

Bayshore, a 60ha extension of Bedok town that sits on reclaimed land bounded by Upper East Coast Road and the ECP, is designed to be car-lite.

It will have cycling and walking paths that will be connected to the Round Island Route, a continuous 150km park connector, and an upcoming 15km green corridor linking East Coast Park and Changi Beach.

Ms Tammy Tan, 23, a future resident of Bayshore Vista, welcomed the new flyover, but is worried that traffic congestion and noise pollution in the area might worsen.

The postgraduate student, who drives to her parents’ condominium in Bayshore Road frequently, said the flyover may allow traffic to flow faster. The roads there are now very congested, especially during peak hours.

But she is concerned that motorists from other estates may also use the flyover, which may worsen the traffic snarls.

As her new flat will face the expressway, Ms Tan is also worried that greater traffic may result in “more honking”, increasing noise pollution.


Another future Bayshore Vista resident, Mr William Chan, 29, is looking forward to the potential connectivity pedestrians and cyclists travelling between Bayshore and East Coast Park can get from the new flyover.

But the public relations analyst said that while the Bayshore Flyover may be built to relieve heavy traffic in Upper East Coast and Bedok South Road by diverting traffic away from the Laguna Flyover, he is worried that it would lead to more vehicular traffic near Bayshore.

If so, this would defeat the purpose of the car-lite policy of the Bayshore area “unless LTA takes advantage of the new flyover to expand and prioritise the public bus network”, added Mr Chan.

Bedok South resident Angel Tan is concerned that the new flyover may cause heavier jams in the area in the mornings, especially with schools such as Temasek Primary School nearby.

However, the optometrist – who will move into Bayshore Vista when it is ready – said she is not worried about possible noise from the future roadworks. She is prepared for higher noise levels, since her new flat will be next to the expressway and near Changi Airport.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

16 first-gen NEL trains refurbished, remaining 9 to follow by 2026: Chee Hong Tat​

Refurbishment includes stripping down the trains, from the interior to the structures under the cabin.ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN

Lee Nian Tjoe
Feb 28, 2025

SINGAPORE – Sixteen of 25 first-generation trains on the North East Line (NEL) have been refurbished as part of a major renewal project that began in 2019, Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat said.

The remaining nine trains will be progressively put into service by the first quarter of 2026 after they have been refurbished, Mr Chee said in a written parliamentary reply to Hougang MP Dennis Tan on Feb 28.

Mr Tan had asked for an update on the renewal works for the NEL, how the programme will enhance the line, and how long the upgrades will last before more renewal works may be needed.

The first-generation Alstom Metropolis C751A trains have been in service since the MRT line was opened in 2003.

Besides the trains, other parts of the renewal programme, such as upgrades to the track, power, signalling system and the platform screen doors, were completed in 2021, said Mr Chee.

The total refreshment project, including NEL trains and associated systems, was meant to be completed by the third quarter of 2024 but was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The train refurbishment work is done by CRRC Nanjing Puzhen at the Sengkang Depot. This is where NEL trains are parked at the end of service hours, as well as for maintenance work.

Refurbishment includes stripping down the trains, from the interior to the structures under the cabin. Besides putting in new fittings like flooring and seating, the lighting and air-conditioning systems are changed to improve effectiveness and energy efficiency.

The upgrade also sees the static route map stickers in the trains replaced by a digitalised system that provides passengers with real-time information.

A new condition monitoring system is also installed. This is intended to help the operator measure the system’s performance and help decide the kind of maintenance work needed.

The updated trains undergo a variety of tests from assessing their water tightness to whether they work correctly with the other systems, and running them on the actual MRT line after service hours before they are redeployed to carry passengers.

Valued at $116.7 million, the contract to refurbish the 25 first-generation NEL trains was awarded to CRRC Nanjing Puzhen in 2018.

The NEL is Singapore’s third-oldest MRT line. Operated by SBS Transit, the line was opened in 2003. In December 2024, it was extended with the opening of the Punggol Coast station, which is the 17th station on the 22km-long line.

The NEL fleet also comprises 18 second-generation Alstom Metropolis C751C trains, which have been plying the NEL daily since 2015.

Six third-generation trains, costing $130 million, were progressively added to the NEL from 2023, bringing the total fleet on the line to 49 trains, up from 43 trains.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

FairPrice to give out 75,000 sets of drinks and snacks to Muslim customers during Ramadan​

Muslim shoppers will be able to get these refreshments either 30 minutes before or after iftar time.ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO

Angelica Ang
Feb 28, 2025

SINGAPORE - Supermarket chain FairPrice will be giving out more than 75,000 sets of snacks and drinks to Muslim customers at 59 of its stores this Ramadan.

The giveaway, which will last from March 2 to 30, is part of efforts by the FairPrice Group to support the Muslim community during the festive period, it said in a press statement.

Each Muslim customer will receive a drink, such as milk, an isotonic beverage or water, and a snack of dates or biscuits while stocks last.

They will be able to get these refreshments either 30 minutes before or after iftar time, when Muslims break their fast.

FairPrice Group’s group chief executive officer Vipul Chawla said: “Ramadan is a time for prayer and reflection, and we want to take the opportunity to support our Muslim community during this important period.

“Through this effort, we hope to bring Singaporeans together in the spirit of deepening community bonds, and deliver on our mission of making every day a little better for those we serve.”

Volunteers from the group’s headquarters will be participating in the distribution of refreshments for the first time in 2025.

On March 3 and 4, it will also be giving out 1,500 Ramadan care packs to Yayasan and M3 beneficiaries.

There will be two Hari Raya block parties in Tampines and Woodlands in April.

There will also be special discounts on festive essentials till April 9. Customers can go to the FairPrice website for more details.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

PM Wong launches PA Youth Charter for young people to organise impactful community projects​

PM Lawrence Wong (centre) interacting with young people on March 1 at the launch of the PA Youth Charter at the Future of Youth.ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI
Chin Soo Fang
Mar 01, 2025

SINGAPORE – A new youth charter has been launched to inspire and rally Singapore’s youth to take action on community issues they care about.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who is also the People’s Association’s (PA) chairman, launched the PA Youth Charter at the Future of Youth event on March 1 at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza.

In conjunction with Singapore’s diamond jubilee or SG60, the PA is also introducing a new SG60 PA Engagement Grant.

The grant will see a quantum of up to $3,000 provided to each PA Youth Movement (PAYM) youth network for young people to lead projects on themes that resonate with them.

The PAYM, which was set up in 1971 to engage youth in meaningful pursuits, is committing one million volunteer hours in 2025 to conceptualise and organise ground-up community projects.

They will revolve around three issues: mental health, racial and religious harmony, and sustainability and the environment.

These themes were based on the feedback gathered from people aged 15 to 35 years old in the past 15 months through community events, focus group discussions and other forms of engagements.

PAYM received 127,000 pieces of suggestions, feedback and input.

The respondents included students, volunteers and activists in community and faith-based organisations, and civil society groups. Youth with disabilities and those in reformative training centres were also involved.

PM Wong said he believes the youth have the ideas and passion to make Singapore a better place.

Addressing more than 1,000 young people at the event, he said: “So, the charter is not just about words; it is not just a document. It is a call to action – it is a blueprint to shape the community and the Singapore you want for yourselves and your future.”

PM Wong added that the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and the National Youth Council are planning to partner more young people to develop a broader plan.

He noted that Singapore’s survival was never assured from the beginning, but it overcame tremendous adversities and obstacles.

And it must brace itself for a bumpier ride ahead, he said.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong (in black) at the launch of the PA Youth Charter at the Future of Youth at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza. With him are Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong (second from left) Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Janil Puthucheary (left) and MP Xie Yao Quan (with the SG60 sign).ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI
Said PM Wong: “Looking ahead now, in our next phase, we can see dark clouds over the horizon. We can expect stormy weather in the world around us.”

But he added that Singapore can be confident of its future as it has overcome difficult times such as the Covid-19 pandemic.

It now has a stronger foundation, and a clearer roadmap through Forward Singapore – the agenda put together in consultation with all Singaporeans – and it has set out clear plans in Budget 2025.

While the Government will do its part to secure Singapore’s future, it needs the support of the people to write the next chapter of its story, PM Wong added.

“So to all our young people, I say, Singapore’s future is not just something you inherit; it is something you will create through every action you take, starting today,” he said.

Dr Janil Puthucheary, chairman of the panel of advisers to the PAYM council, and Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information and Ministry of Health, said the work started even before the launch of the Youth Charter.

He said that in the past year, there were already 375 youth-led projects involving about 4,000 volunteers. And about 240 youth organisations have signed up to support the charter, he said.

Besides the three themes, job opportunities is one other area that youth like Mr Avinaash Maravarman, 18, is concerned about.

The first-year Singapore Polytechnic aeronautical engineering student is assistant secretary of the Canberra Youth Network. He has been involved in beach clean-ups at Sembawang Park Beach.

He said: “The job market is evolving quickly, so many young people like me are worried if our education and skills will remain relevant in future, especially with global competition and the possibility of an economic downturn.”

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong (in red) and Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Janil Puthucheary (in white) at the launch of the Youth Charter at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza.ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI
The aspiring pilot works part-time as a ground staff member for an airline company to gain industry experience.

A recent graduate employment survey released on Feb 24 showed that 79.5 per cent of university graduates secured full-time positions in 2024, down from 84.1 per cent in 2023.

Besides job opportunities, Mr Joshua Khoo, 33, who suffers from skeletal dysplasia, is concerned about job discrimination.

The freelance photographer, who gave his feedback during the PAYM engagement exercise, said: “Because we look different, society may view those with special needs differently, or as being less capable.”

Mr Ng Shi Xuan, 35, vice-chairman of the MacPherson Youth Network, said the aim of the Youth Charter is to inspire young people to be change-makers.

He said: “If you look at schools and workplaces, they have very structured volunteering programmes. But with the youth networks, there is a third space where the youth can come out and explore their own projects, causes that they are passionate about.”

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

PM Wong reaffirms Singapore’s commitment to Palestinian statehood​

PM Lawrence Wong visiting the Sree Narayana Mission in Yishun on March 2 for a Buka Puasa and relief packing event.ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR

Anjali Raguraman
Mar 03, 2025

SINGAPORE – The ongoing conflicts in Gaza and many other places reflect the current state of the world, where the superpowers are locked in intense contest and global institutions and norms are eroding, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on March 2.

While these are uncharted waters, Singapore will be able to navigate them successfully so long as Singaporeans stay a strong and united people, he said at a buka puasa – breaking fast – and relief packing event at the Sree Narayana Mission in Yishun.

At the same time, Singaporeans cannot turn a blind eye to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza even though it is far away, PM Wong added as he pressed home the Republic’s consistent commitment towards helping the Palestinian people achieve eventual statehood.

“The suffering of civilians speaks to our shared humanity, and Singapore will do whatever we can to help,” he said.

“We will continue to work with our partners in the Middle East to support the pressing needs of Gaza.”

Addressing a crowd of more than 800 volunteers, community leaders and grassroots activists, PM Wong said the world is becoming a more dangerous place.

“The world is unfortunately starting to resemble a lawless jungle where might is right. And day by day, you can see signs of growing danger and turbulence all around us,” he said.

As a diverse society, Singaporeans may have differences, but must always remember they are one people living in peace and harmony together, regardless of race, language and religion.

“As we extend our hearts to those in need overseas, let us treasure and uphold all that we have here at home in Singapore... let us always treat one another with kindness and respect, for this spirit of solidarity is what makes Singapore special, and it is what will enable us to overcome all challenges and build a better future together.”

Earlier in the day, more than 300 volunteers of all creeds, races and ages gathered at Sree Narayana Mission to put together 5,000 Kidz Comfort Packs for children in Gaza.

Volunteers from Tampines Meridian Junior College, Nanyang Girls’ High School, Republic Polytechnic and groups like Soka Gakkai Singapore, AMP Singapore and Hindu Volunteers Network assembled the backpacks, which contained items such as snacks, a water bottle, a blanket, a soft toy and colouring materials.

Among the volunteers present was Ms Serena Teo, 36, who used her skills as a human resources professional to help with pre-event coordination and volunteer management.

She was heartened by the high turnout for the packing exercise. “When you have hundreds of individuals together, the efforts accumulate… every little bit makes a difference,” she said.

This was the fourth such exercise conducted by non-profit organisation Humanity Matters, which has already distributed 5,000 such comfort packs to Gaza City in July 2024, said Humanity Matters deputy chairman Noor Mohamed Marican.

PM Wong noted that many Singaporeans have donated generously, and volunteered their time and energy to ground-up relief efforts such as this.

“These contributions matter a lot. They may seem small compared to Gaza’s massive needs, but every action counts,” he said.

More than 300 volunteers gathered at Sree Narayana Mission to put together 5,000 Kidz Comfort Packs for children in Gaza.ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR
As a nation, Singapore has contributed more than $19 million to Gaza since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October 2023. On Feb 12, the Republic of Singapore Air Force delivered Singapore’s seventh tranche of humanitarian aid to Gaza via an A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport.

According to the United Nations, some 1.9 million of Gaza’s 2.4 million people – roughly half of them children – have been displaced by the war.

PM Wong said: “Besides providing humanitarian relief, Singapore will also fully back international efforts for a homeland and a state for the Palestinian people as part of a negotiated two-state solution.

“And we will continue to support the Palestinian Authority’s capacity-building efforts and support the Palestinians in eventually governing their own state.”

He said there will be more platforms to support Gaza during the fasting month, such as the new M3 Bazaar for Gaza booth at Bazaar Raya, the yearly Ramadan bazaar at Wisma Geylang Serai.

Launched on March 1, the booth has already raised $166,200 in aid for Gaza, with a goal of $600,000. It is organised by M3@Towns – a volunteering platform for the Malay/Muslim community – and the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

FairPrice to give Ramadan care packs to over 1,300 needy Muslim families from March 4​

The care packs contain staples such as cereal, soya milk, tinned tuna and pitted dates.PHOTO: FAIRPRICE GROUP
Calista Wong
Mar 04, 2025

SINGAPORE - More than 1,300 needy Muslim families will be getting Ramadan care packs worth $40 each throughout the fasting month starting March 4.

The care packs, sponsored by the FairPrice Foundation, contain staples such as cereal, soya milk, tinned tuna and pitted dates, and will go towards ensuring the families have healthy and nutritious food for the pre-dawn meal.

The care packs were distributed at ITE College Central in Ang Mo Kio on March 4, and will continue for the entire month of Ramadan at all three ITE colleges. ITE College East is in Simei and ITE College West is in Choa Chu Kang.

Eligible families can also get the care packs at Mendaki Satellite Centres across the island.

On March 3, volunteers from the FairPrice Group and Mendaki prepared about 1,500 care packs for distribution. The initiative is part of efforts by the retail giant to support Singaporeans in need, said FairPrice Foundation general manager Jean Khong.

On March 6, another 200 care packs will be given out to needy Muslim families at a break-fast event as part of a tie-up between FairPrice and the National Trades Union Congress.

 

[LITTLEREDDOT]

New hawker centres to open in Bukit Batok West and Punggol Coast in first half of 2025​

The Bukit Batok West Hawker Centre at 469 Bukit Batok West Avenue 9 will have 22 cooked-food stalls.PHOTO: NEA
Chin Hui Shan and Shabana Begum
Mar 04, 2025

SINGAPORE – New and improved hawker centres, a national push to keep indoor temperatures at or above 25 deg C, and vouchers to offset the cost of efficient home appliances are among the national initiatives that Singaporeans can look forward to.

The Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) gave updates on some of these initiatives on March 4. Here are the highlights:

Two new hawker centres will open in Bukit Batok West and Punggol Coast in the first half of 2025, while five more hawker centres will be built to serve residents in existing or new estates in years to come, said the MSE and the National Environment Agency (NEA).

It is not known where the five new hawker centres will be.

The Bukit Batok West Hawker Centre at 469 Bukit Batok West Avenue 9 will have 22 cooked-food stalls and more than 400 seats, while the Punggol Coast Hawker Centre at 84 Punggol Way will have 40 cooked-food stalls and more than 680 seats.

The Punggol Coast Hawker Centre at 84 Punggol Way will have 40 cooked-food stalls and more than 680 seats.PHOTO: NEA
To upgrade ageing hawker centres and build new ones, the MSE and the NEA will invest up to $1 billion over the next 20 to 30 years under the Hawker Centres Upgrading Programme 2.0. The first iteration of the programme took place more than 20 years ago to upgrade or rebuild almost 100 centres, said Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Koh Poh Koon.

Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu said: “Over time, as our people’s needs evolve, our hawker centres have to be revitalised and future-ready. With climate change, an ageing population, rapid urban developments and shifting hawker profiles, patrons and hawkers have new expectations.”

She added: “Hawkers also require more productive and innovative solutions to meet their business aspirations and tackle operational challenges.”

Under the programme, hawker centres will be upgraded to become more vibrant, accessible and climate-resilient.

For example, the NEA will optimise the use of space within the centres, such as through better layout and stall configuration, to make them more pleasant for multi-generational families and the community.

To adapt to rising temperatures and make the centres more comfortable, NEA will explore solutions to improve air circulation and reduce ambient temperatures, such as by using high-volume, low-speed fans.

However, some older hawker centres in mature estates may need to be rebuilt instead of just being upgraded. MSE and NEA are working with the relevant planning agencies to identify such centres.

A one-time rental support of $600 will be given to stallholders of each cooked-food and market stall in hawker centres and markets managed by the Government and government-appointed operators.

This is to recognise the role hawker centres and markets play in Singapore’s national identity and heritage. It is also to celebrate SG60 and the fifth anniversary of the inscription of Singapore’s hawker culture in the Unesco Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Existing registered stallholders with an active tenancy as at Feb 18 will receive $600 per stall from April.

In April 2024, all HDB households received $300 in climate vouchers, and about $88 million worth of these vouchers has been spent as at Jan 31.

Assuming that the households that used the vouchers redeemed all $300 at one go, this means some 293,333 households, or more than a quarter of all households in Housing Board flats, have used up their climate vouchers to buy energy- and water-saving appliances.

Overall, 80 per cent of households – around 850,000 HDB units – have claimed the e-vouchers from the RedeemSG website to use later.

These vouchers – which will be topped up by $100 for families living in HDB flats and extended to Singaporeans living in private housing from mid-April 2025 – are valid until Dec 31, 2027.


The top three appliances bought using the vouchers so far were direct current fans, refrigerators and washing machines, said Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Amy Khor.

“This translates to annual energy savings that can power 19,000 four-room HDB flats and annual water savings equivalent to 900 Olympic-sized swimming pools, or about $31 million in annual utility savings,” said Dr Khor.

The vouchers can be used to buy 10 types of energy- and water-efficient appliances and fittings, such as air-conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators. They include air-conditioners labelled with five ticks and refrigerators with at least three ticks.

The vouchers can be used at about 170 retailers, covering more than 520 outlets islandwide.

It might be more common to see the thermostat set to 25 deg C or higher at buildings, offices and malls in the future, as efforts are under way to avoid overcooling and help buildings save on electricity bills.

The Government intends to start an initiative to work with the public and businesses to slightly turn up air-conditioning temperatures, while still allowing people to escape the heat. More details will be announced later in 2025.

“This will reduce energy cost and allow occupants to dress more appropriately for our tropical climate,” said Ms Fu.

Air-conditioners tend to guzzle a lot of electricity while releasing planet-warming refrigerants.

Keeping the temperature at 25 deg C has been a practice at government buildings for a couple of years now since the public sector’s sustainability movement began.

About $300 million will be set aside in an energy efficiency fund for public sector buildings, for use over the next five years.

The fund will be used to invest in worthwhile projects that will help government facilities reduce energy usage and reap savings from lower utility bills in the long run. Eligible projects could include retrofits to energy-guzzling systems or the installation of smart systems to optimise energy efficiency.

Public sector facilities that could be covered include offices, hospitals and MRT stations.

And from the 2025 financial year, businesses will need to keep sustainability in mind when they bid for event venues and event management tenders put out by the Government.

This is part of efforts to extend environmental sustainability criteria to Mice (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) tenders. Since 2024, public tenders related to large construction as well as information and communications technology have taken environmental sustainability into account.