[Post 810] School Work: The non-teaching staff who keep Singapore’s schools working | Full series

Summary

Schools are not just run by teachers. We shadowed various professionals for a day to see how they each play a part in schools.

[Post 809] A crop of news startups in San Francisco are thriving

Summary

In the US, many news outlets have struggled or disappeared in recent years, unable to weather the loss of critical advertising dollars to the Internet. But in the San Francisco Bay area, a crop of news startups is showing that it's still possible for local news organizations to survive, and even thrive. Ira Spitzer has more.

[Post 808] Public transport fee hikes: How are they calculated? | Deep Dive podcast

Summary

This episode of Deep Dive was recorded on 17 September 2024.

[Post 807] My life as a Night Safari zookeeper with lions, bears and a cute aardvark

Summary

CNA Women spent a day with Rajarajeishwary Mariappan, a young zookeeper taking care of six lionesses, five sloth bears, three striped hyenas, seven northern white-faced owls and an aardvark. (Video: Joyee Koo)

[Post 806] A Gen Z Investor's Strategy To Be A Millionaire By Age 33 | Money Mind | Investment

Summary

20-year-old Eugene Low is on a treasure hunt which he hopes will be one small step in his big plan to be a millionaire in his early thirties. Is his goal achievable? 

[Post 805] I'm A SCDF Community First Responder: Attending To Crises By Foot | On The Red Dot - Secret Heroes

Summary

Chia Jun Wei may seem like any other student starting his journey at the Singapore Institute of Technology, but there’s more to him than meets the eye. Whenever his phone alerts him, Jun Wei springs into action as one of SCDF’s community first responders. At just 22, he's already made a huge impact by responding to 30 cardiac arrest emergencies and 15 fire incidents in his neighbourhood. Jun Wei is driven by a strong sense of duty to help others in moments of crisis, saving lives before the paramedics arrive.

[Post 804] Gold Prices Keep Hitting Record Highs. Is It A Good Time To Buy? | Money Mind | Investment

Summary

The price of gold keeps hitting record highs. So is it a good time to buy? 

[Post 803] Singapore Football Woes: Can We Really Make 2034 World Cup? | Talking Point | Full Episode

Summary

Mention local football to most Singaporeans and you’re likely to get two reactions: fond memories of past Malaysia Cup glory, or sighs at the national team’s lack of silverware in recent years. Today, the country is hoping to rebuild the beleaguered game from the ground up, with the aspirational goal of qualifying for the 2034 World Cup part of the process. 

But exactly a decade away from 2034 – where exactly is Singapore football now, and what will it take to get it to the next level? In this special two-part series, Talking Point Host Steven Chia goes behind the scenes at the latest national project to lift local football, and heads overseas to learn what it takes to be the world’s best – from the world’s best. 

Featuring exclusive interviews with key members of the local football fraternity, national team head coach Tsutomu Ogura, FAS President Bernard Tan and Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong, among others, Steven find outs what it will take for a nation to dare dream again.

[Post 802] Malaysia Races To Become Global Tech Hub: From Semiconductors To Data Centres | CNA Correspondent

Summary

Malaysia is racing to become a global tech hub. It is competing with regional rivals such as Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand in attracting investments from big tech companies. The Malaysian states of Penang, Selangor and Johor are leading the charge. 

Penang wants to tap into the front end chip manufacturing supply chain, which involves wafer fabrication, advanced testing and packaging. Selangor is positioning itself as a potential powerhouse in the global integrated circuit design industry. 

Meanwhile, the southern state of Johor is now the largest data centre market in Malaysia, driven by a boom in investments by multinational corporations with a regional presence. It also ranks as one of the largest markets in the Asia-Pacific region. The success of attracting billions of dollars in investments comes with challenges. Malaysia needs to fill a critical gap of 60,000 engineers to meet demand in the semiconductor industry.

[Post 801] ‘It’s Okay To Send Mum To A Nursing Home’: China’s Changing Face Of Filial Piety

Summary

As China rapidly ages, notions of filial piety are shifting. More adult children are embracing nursing homes as a viable way to care for their ageing parents and grandparents - rather than as a last resort for the elderly. 

But with a nationwide shortage of eldercare staff and affordable facilities, most top-notch private nursing homes remain out of reach, while cheaper public ones have months-long waiting lists. The situation is even more dire in rural areas, which have only 1.7 million beds for over 100 million elderly people.

As Beijing plays catch up in boosting the country’s eldercare sector, will nursing homes continue to grow in acceptance among Chinese families? Or will the social stigma of using them persist?  

[Post 800] How A No-Spend Challenge Helped Me Stop Overspending And Save Money | Money Mind | Savings

Summary

Can a “no-spend challenge” help you to streamline your finances and save money? Host Cheryl Goh puts herself to the test. 

[Post 799] Why A Malaysian Millennial Moved From Kuala Lumpur To Countryside & How It's Paid Off | Money Mind

Summary

Nuraishah Shamsuddin left a big city job in graphic design, drawn by the pull of the countryside. Find out how a return to rural roots is paying off for this Malaysian millennial.  

[Post 798] I Quit My ByteDance Product Manager Job To Farm In China. Now I Help Fellow Farmers Make Money

Summary

Tang Xinchen had a well-paying job at ByteDance as a product manager - but to his parents’ dismay, he gave that up to be a farmer in his hometown.

Despite their initial disapproval, Tang has achieved success as a farmer by automating processes and tapping on social media to sell his produce. Now, he’s passing on his expertise to other young farmers, with hopes to revitalise his rural hometown.

[Post 797] These Grandmas Play 'Water Polo': Why I Teach Them For Free | On The Red Dot - Secret Heroes

Summary

Meet Water Polo Coach Ting Kum, who’s found an exciting and fun way to keep seniors active—leading free weekly water polo sessions for a lively group of women aged 60 to 85.

Even though he’s never played water polo himself, Coach Ting runs an academy that’s known for producing national youth players. But no matter how busy his schedule gets, he always makes time for these spirited grandmas. He never misses a session. He’s even simplified the game to fuel their competitive streak while keeping the excitement high. We take a closer look at how Coach Ting builds an unbreakable bond with this amazing group of women, revealing that, in many ways, he needs them just as much as they need him.

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[Post 796] I Work As 24/7 Crisis Helpliner For Migrant Workers In Distress | On The Red Dot - Secret Heroes

Summary

Meet Jaishen Jayasegaran, a dedicated Crisis Helpline operator who answers calls from distressed migrant workers, offering a listening ear and vital support when they need it most. He takes on the toughest shift—the graveyard shifts from 10 PM to 7 AM—up to 10 days a month, when calls are often the most urgent. Whether it’s a plea for help or just someone in distress, Jaishen is there to provide comfort and calm, keeping migrant workers safe in their darkest hours. But Jaishen’s dedication goes far beyond just answering calls. Secret Heroes explores how he forms deep connections with the migrant worker community, stepping up to help in ways that go above and beyond the job description.

[Post 795] US Fed Cuts Interest Rates: How Should You Rebalance Your Portfolio? | Money Mind | Investment

Summary

Six investment decisions to make as the Fed cuts interest rates.

[Post 794] “I Feel Helpless”: South Korean Teachers Grapple With Stress & Abuse | Insight | Full Episode

Summary

According to South Korea's Ministry of Education, about 100 public school teachers took their own lives between January 2018 and June 2023. 

From heavy workload to the undue stress placed by parents, to abuse by students, South Korea's teachers are under duress. Many are leaving their jobs, and a majority live in fear of their students and their parents. But behind this phenomenon, is a toxic over-emphasis on academic performance, and the lack of protection for teachers. 

As teachers lobby for their rights in South Korea, the country is now driven to re-examine its relationship with education. 

[Post 791] Expansion of Tuas Newater Factory will triple production to 75 million gallons per day

Summary

Singapore is expanding a facility in Tuas to increase by three times the amount of recycled used water. When completed, it can produce 75 million gallons per day -- enough water to fill more than 130 Olympic-sized swimming pools. The Tuas water recycling plant will be part of the larger Tuas Nexus -- the world’s first integrated waste and water treatment facility. Today, NEWater meets around 40% of Singapore's water demand. It is expected to meet more than half the country's needs by 2060.

[Post 790] Temasek Explained: Supporting Singapore through tough times [Part 8/8]

Summary

When COVID-19 struck, Temasek galvanised its ecosystem to do right and do good for the community here and overseas. Beyond the pandemic, it continues on its journey to do good, supporting Temasek Trust and its non-profit entities.

[Post 789] Temasek Explained: Exclusive interview with CEO of Singapore’s Temasek [Part 7/8]

Summary

After joining the firm for over a decade, Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara was appointed CEO of Temasek Holdings in October 2021. In his first in-depth interview since taking office, Dilhan shares his leadership journey, and unveils Temasek’s inner workings, as well as his blueprint for the future.

[Post 788]Temasek Explained: Does Temasek manage our CPF? Your burning questions answered [Part 6/8]

Summary

Temasek remains a mystery to most Singaporeans. Depending on whom you ask, the answer varies. This video debunks common misperceptions about Temasek’s sources of funds and how it uses them.

[Post 787] Temasek Explained: How Temasek makes its investment decisions [Part 5/8]

Summary

Despite the year-on-year volatility of markets, Temasek has stayed true to its culture of long-term ownership. For the first time, Temasek’s top executives shed light on what goes on behind the scenes to structure a deal, investing in strong business models with a focus on long-term returns.

[Post 786] Temasek Explained: Global expansion in the 2000s [Part 4/8]

Summary

Having journeyed with Singapore in the early years, Temasek began seeking opportunities for its next phase of growth in the 2000s. Since then, it has expanded into Asia, Europe, and the Americas, with 13 offices in nine countries, building a globally diversified portfolio.

[Post 785] Temasek Explained: What is Temasek’s mission? [Part 3/8]

Summary

Despite a tumultuous decade in the 2000s, Temasek broke new ground and evolved from a Singapore holding company to a global investment entity. It was also during this period that Ho Ching became Temasek’s first CEO. Under her helm, what did Temasek do differently?

[Post 784] Temasek Explained: Temasek’s growth in the early years [Part 2/8]

Summary

Temasek’s first-generation leaders laid the foundation for Temasek to become the global economic powerhouse that it is today. Who are they? How did they challenge the status quo and push boundaries? 

[Post 783] Temasek Explained: How was Temasek started? [Part 1/8]

Summary

With an initial portfolio worth S$354 million, Temasek has grown its value to S$389 billion today. But how did Temasek come into existence? Where did it get its name from? This video traces the evolution of the global investment company to its humble beginnings, revealing little-known facts about its early history between 1974 and 1979.

[Post 782] Ask Work It: Is being comfortable at work a bad thing?

Summary

You’ve been at your company for years and happy with the work-life balance, but some of your colleagues are advancing elsewhere. Is staying put equivalent to career suicide?   

[Post 781] How Singapore’s urban farms stay resilient through rain or shine

Summary

Commercial urban farms in Singapore depend on technology and infrastructure to protect their crops from extreme heat and rain. While the methods may allow for consistent produce, their electricity usage and bills could go up. These higher costs can however be offset through other savings. CNA’s Rachel Teng reports.

[Post 780] Volatile US markets: What happens next? | Money Talks podcast

Summary

After another record sell-off in the US stock market in early September, should investors start looking at Asian markets and sectors outside of AI?

Andrea Heng sits down with Garett Lim, head of partnerships, Asia at SIX Financial Information and they discuss how investors can reassess their investment strategies. 

[Post 779] Retail brands gain from expanding into F&B within shops

Summary

Some retail brands are seeing a 10 per cent jump in revenue, after expanding into food and beverage services within their premises. They told CNA that this has helped them to diversify revenue streams and even defray rising rental costs. The move comes as they face lower footfall amid competition with e-commerce and consumer behaviour shift to focus more on experiences. CNA’s Kate Low reports. 

[Post 778] As food costs rise, some preschools find fresh ways to serve healthy meals

Summary

Some preschools in Singapore have had to find alternate ways to offer nutritious meals while coping with inflation. This includes looking at other sources of affordable and quality items and hiring experienced cooks. CNA’s Eugene Chow reports. 

[Post 777] Why are salaries kept secret?

Summary

Wage transparency is all the rage on TikTok, where people talk about how much they earn. But for most of us, discussing salary publicly is still taboo. How do bosses decide who gets a higher salary, especially when two people are doing the same job? Skills, impact and size of company are some key factors, says Lionel Low, senior client solutions principal of ASEAN at Mercer. He explains all there is to know about rewards and renumeration. 

[Post 776] What it takes to get to the top of a field in Singapore | Full series

Summary

From sprinting to wildlife photography, we spent time with some of the best practitioners of various fields to find out What It Takes to get to the top. 

[Post 775] VEP deadline Oct 1: The Singapore drivers who haven't got their VEP tag yet

Summary

From Oct 1, Malaysia will require all foreign-registered cars to have a vehicle entry permit (VEP) or risk prosecution. But many Singapore drivers CNA spoke to are unsure they can secure their VEP in time and say they will hold off from travelling into Johor Bahru until then. Read the full report: https://cna.asia/4gvEKO8

[Post 774] Life Inside Singapore’s Maximum Security Prison: Marathon Special

Summary

For the first time, five inmates, incarcerated multiple times and at least once at maximum security, agree to reveal their full identities, for our cameras to capture their lives behind bars, as they unfold. Will the regime in jail finally be enough for them to renounce a life of crime? Will this be their final stint in Changi Prison?

Meet the inmates, Graceson, Khai, Boon Keng, Iskandar and Rusdi.

[Post 773] How To Stay Popular & Be Successful On Stream | Secret Lives Of Live-Streamers - Part 2/2

Summary

It takes talent to be a good livestreamer but are there challenges behind the fame? China’s Yunnan Quan Mei had a viral hit song but she is no longer able to make ends meet as a streamer. Can she find a breakthrough or is she doomed to be a one-hit wonder? Indonesia’s Kapten Zan cracked the code on what keeps his viewers hooked – creating drama. But he runs the risk of getting banned if his streams violate guidelines. How does he toe the line? Singapore’s Katherleen Soh is part of Patrick Low’s Home Family livestream empire. She has the graveyard shift and struggles to gain more viewers, traffic and sales. Can sheer hard work allow her to succeed?

In Part Two of the series, we continue to follow the stories of three livestreamers from China, Indonesia and Singapore, to find out what comes after fame, and the struggles to stay on top.

[Post 772] How To Make Lots Of Money Livestreaming | Secret Lives Of Live-Streamers - Part 1/2 | Full Episode

Summary

At her peak, China’s viral sensation Yunnan Quan Mei earned up to US$2,800 each time she livestreamed. Indonesia’s Kapten Zan is now earning 10 times more than when he first started out as a gaming live-streamer. And Singapore’s Patrick Low is the proud owner of more than one supercar, a fact made possible by the success of his livestreaming empire. What is it about the livestreaming that is keeping so many viewers hooked and willing to part with their money? And is what live-streamers do really that easy?  

In Part One of this series, we track three successful live-streamers from China, Indonesia and Singapore, to uncover their secret formula to making a fortune with livestreaming, and what’s really behind all the glitz and glamour. 

[Post 771] China Pursues New Frontiers As It Marks 75 Years Since Founding Of PRC | CNA Correspondent

Summary

75 years since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the once impoverished and underdeveloped nation has transformed itself to become the world’s second-largest economy. From revolutionary beginnings to breaking new frontiers, China has charted a path of modernisation as it seeks to create opportunities to build common prosperity. CNA Correspondent looks at how China navigates economic headwinds and a turbulent geopolitical landscape as it pursues high quality development.

[Post 770] Chicken Rice War: Who's Serving The Original Swee Kee Chicken Rice In Singapore? | On The Red Dot

Summary

Hainanese chicken rice, one of Singapore’s national dishes, was popularised by the famous Swee Kee Chicken Rice at Middle Road in the 1950s and 1960s. Since Swee Kee’s closure in 1997, several stalls bearing similar names—such as Moh Swee Kee, Zheng Swee Kee, Traditional Rui Ji, and Sing Swee Kee—have sprung up, leaving customers confused about which one carries the legacy of the original.

Food Feud uncovers which of these brands is truly connected to the original Swee Kee or simply capitalising on its name, and conducts a taste test to determine which stall’s chicken rice comes closest to the original’s iconic flavour.

[Post 769] Gen Z Lion Dancers Of TikTok Fame: Is Passion Enough?

Summary

Nicolas Goh, 21, a second-generation lion dancer, is following in his father’s footsteps to lead Namyang Troupe Lion Dance Centre. While the lion dance scene is largely dominated by older Chinese men, Nicolas recruits youths – from as young as 12 – of all genders and races from TikTok. 

Watch Nicolas navigate the complexities of leading a Gen Z team: Managing conflicts, dealing with spotty discipline and attendance, and breaking stereotypes. 

[Post 768] Sinkholes In Singapore: Can We Really Avoid Them? | Talking Point | Full Episode

Summary

Last month, the shocking news of an Indian tourist falling into a sinkhole in KL dominated the headlines.  How does the ground beneath our feet suddenly give way and swallow a whole person?

In this episode of Talking Point, host Diana Ser visits ground zero in KL to find out what could have happened and also whether we can spot any warning signs of sinkholes. And while this happened in neighbouring Malaysia, she digs into the earth in Singapore to find out what lies beneath us and whether we are at risk here.

[Post 766] More Space, Lower Bills: Hong Kong Residents Are Moving To Retire In Mainland China | Money Mind

Summary

More Hongkongers are making the move to the mainland in their old age. Is it just because of a lower cost of living?

[Post 765] Impact of providing better protection for Singapore's 70,000 platform workers | Deep Dive podcast

Summary

No video this week as the recording was done online and the quality was not the best. But the conversation is still important and relevant to anyone who uses the services of platform workers. We hope you enjoy the audio experience.

[Post 764] The realities of raising 5 kids in Singapore | Commentary

Summary

During the National Day Rally 2024 speech, a slew of announcements were aimed at making Singapore more family-friendly. One of the support measures will be for families with three or more young children. Freelance writer and mother-of-five Kelly Ang tells CNA about the realities of raising a large family in Singapore.

[Post 763] Ask Work It: More work but no promotion. Should I say no?

Summary

You are taking on more projects every year, yet the career jump remains out of reach. What’s holding your boss back from promoting you and what can you do to break this cycle? 

[Post 762] Why near-expired food is sought after by young people in Taiwan

Summary

More young Taiwanese are turning to near-expired food items sold at steep discounts as a way to cope with the island's soaring cost of living. It has become a popular topic on social media, with netizens sharing tips and experience of buying these discounted goods. CNA's Victoria Jen with this report.

[Post 761] How I Made It: PropNex CEO Ismail Gafoor, PropNex on making and spending money | Money Talks podcast

Summary

In this special two-part series, Andrea Heng asks Singapore’s money makers about their relationship with money.

Real estate mogul Ismail Gafoor shares how his childhood shaped his attitude towards money, the number one financial rule he and his wife live by, and why it took years for him to finally enjoy spending money on himself. 

[Post 760] Housing cluster pilot for PWDs to live independently

Summary

A cluster of public rental flats for persons with disabilities (PWDs) will be launched next year. The pilot is among plans by an inter-agency taskforce that is looking into how PWDs can live independently, with onsite support from community programmes and services. CNA's Syahida Othman speaks to Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Social and Family Development, and Chia Yong Yong, a member of the Taskforce on Community Living for PWDs, on whether these recommendations are enough and what they are looking forward to.

[Post 759] Never Too Old: Meet the seniors in Singapore who choose not to retire | Full series

Summary

From healthcare to football, to modelling and education, we spoke to some seniors in Singapore who choose to spend their golden years working instead of retiring. 

[Post 758] Rethinking Retirement In China: Why This Retiree Needs A Side Hustle To Make Ends Meet | Money Mind

Summary

How can you help yourself to have a better retirement when you've already stopped working? For one retired truck driver in Beijing, the answer was to shift gears - and look for the perfect match.

[Post 757] China's Ticking Pension Time Bomb: When Young People Give Up On Saving For Retirement | Money Mind

Summary

China is facing a pensions time bomb, with warnings that the state pension fund will run out of money by 2035. But just when China needs its workers to work longer and save more, some young Chinese are doing the very opposite. 

[Post 756] Market Correction Or Bear Market? How To Spot The Warning Signs | Money Mind | Investment

Summary

As world markets brace for volatility, how can investors navigate selloffs? 

[Post 755] The Banana Pie Feud Between Dona Manis & Auntie Peng: Which Pie Is Better? | On The Red Dot

Summary

In the heart of Katong Shopping Centre, two bakeries are locked in a battle over banana pie. Dona Manis Cake Shop faces tough competition from rival Auntie Peng, the original baker, who has opened a shop, Auntie Peng Banana Pie, next door.

As both shops claim to be the original creators, this sweet rivalry has locals and food lovers alike divided. Who will win the ultimate pie showdown? Food Feud uncovers the history, taste and original recipe behind this delicious rivalry in "The Pie Wars.

[Post 754] How To Beat The Heat Without Aircon: Paint Your Roof For A Cooler House | Money Mind | Cool Roof

Summary

Painting a house's roof with a special coating is a low tech, low cost way to keep cool without air conditioning. 

[Post 753] Saving On Mooncake Costs This Mid-Autumn Festival: Is DIY An Option? | Money Mind

Summary

Saving on mooncake costs this mid-autumn festival. Is DIY an option? Host Andrea Heng finds out if her homemade mooncake hack passes the taste test.

[Post 752] New 'Premium' Durian Varieties: Are They Just Mao Shan Wang Remarketed? | Talking Point

Summary

It's that time of the year again – the durian season. In recent years, we've seen new durian varieties entering the market, with each durian varieties offering unique flavours and textures. From lesser-known types like Tupai King to the increasingly popular Black Thorn and Black Gold – what are these new varieties, and what exactly are you paying for? Host Diana Ser heads to a durian plantation in Penang, where some of these newer varieties are cultivated, in search of answers. 

[Post 751] The hidden tech that builds a world-class airport | Building Singapore

 

Summary

How do you redesign an airport terminal to handle 5 million more passengers a year? And at the same time ensure that everyone's bags get on the right flight, at the right time? Read the story at https://str.sg/4CFmT for more. 

Host Chua Enlai enters "the heart" of Changi Airport Terminal 2 to discover the world of "roller coasters" and robotic cranes handling your luggage, as well as the simulation software used to predict passenger traffic at the planning stage. 

This is the third in a five-part series, Building Singapore, which features the people and technology shaping our built environment. 

[Post 750] Completing the Circle Line | Building Singapore

Summary 

How are MRT tunnels built underground without causing disruption above? 👷🚧

Chua Enlai discovers the engineering innovations, including a 100m-long "factory" deployed into the ground, used to expand Singapore's rail network in a safer, more efficient way. This is the second in a five-part series, Building Singapore, which features the people and technology shaping our built environment. 

[Post 749] Building the home that keeps 3,000 birds happy

Summary 

Ever wondered how penguins stay cool in tropical Singapore? 🐧🌴

Join Chua Enlai as he uncovers innovative solutions in the construction of Singapore's first eco-paradise.

This is the first in Building Singapore, a five-part series that features the people and technology shaping our built environment. READ MORE: https://str.sg/Awai

[Post 748] The Chinese and Japanese Gardens reopen: Attractions to look out for #JurongLakeGardens

Summary

After extensive rebuilding works over the last five years, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens in Taman Jurong were officially reopened on Sept 8 by Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong as part of Jurong Lake Gardens. 

Familiar landmarks such as the Twin Pagoda, Grand Arch and Stoneboat remain – alongside new spaces such as Water Wall Court and the Japanese Garden’s Guesthouse, a multipurpose hall that can accommodate up to 1,000 people.

The Straits Times highlights some of the key attractions visitors can look forward to on their next visit.  

[Post 747] India sees rise in demand for gold

Summary

A new sparkle has come to India’s gold market after the government in July slashed the import duty on the precious metal by more than half. The move has cooled prices and heated up demand. Local media is reporting as much as a 30 per cent increase in sales for some jewellers. CNA's Rebecca Bundhun reports from Mumbai. 

[Post 746] Driving schools taking action against bots booking practical lessons

Summary

Driving schools in Singapore are taking action against a growing army of Internet bots paid for by students to reserve and book lesson slots on their websites. This comes amid a post-COVID wave of sign-ups and an apparent lack of available sessions for hands-on driving. At least one driving school has put up a notice recently warning people against using these services on Telegram and other sites like Carousell. Claudia Lim reports.

[Post 745] Bus and train fares for adults to climb by 10 cents per journey from Dec 28

Summary

Public transport fares have risen for a third consecutive year. Bus and train fares for adults will climb by 10 cents per journey, starting from Dec 28. Concession card fares for groups, such as students and senior citizens, will see a smaller increase of four cents per journey. Singapore will fork out an additional $250 million to help cushion the hike for commuters. At its annual fare review exercise, the Public Transport Council said the adjustment was driven by growth in core inflation and wages, but was moderated partially by a drop in energy prices from their peak in 2022. Charlotte Lim reports.

[Post 744] Schools exploring catering services, vending machines amid shortage of canteen stallholders

Summary

Multiple schools in Singapore are still finding it difficult to get stallholders to fill their canteens. Currently, around 40 schools are looking for operators, with a handful missing more than one stall. Stallowners staying the course are struggling with rising costs and getting on in years. Meanwhile, catering services are being looked at as a way to cope with the lack of canteen stalls in more schools. So far, at least three schools have made the switch to caterers. CNA's Rebecca Metteo reports

[Post 743] Ask Work It: Why did HR withdraw a job offer?

Summary

After months of anticipation, you finally hear back from HR only to learn that the indicative job offer has been withdrawn. What might have caused such a u-turn and could you have done anything different? 

[Post 742] Singapore to ration electricity as a 'last resort' during emergencies

Summary

The Energy Market Authority will ration Singapore's electricity supply during an emergency, but this will be done as a "last resort". This is among new measures to ensure the country's energy security and stability. A central gas buying entity (Gasco) will also be formed by year-end. Fully owned by the government, it will undertake all future natural gas contracts. MPs questioned if this would hinder the freedom of current generation companies to decide who they buy from. Singapore's power sector currently needs around six to seven million tonnes of natural gas annually. Nasyrah Rohim reports.

[Post 741] Behind Bars: What life is like in Singapore's Changi Prison | Full series

Summary

We take a look at how Changi Prison inmates receive medical treatment, live in senior- and infirm-friendly cells and work at a call centre to stay employable - all from behind bars. 

[Post 740] The must-see spots for mainland Chinese travellers in Hong Kong

Summary

A basketball court, an old police station - why are these unlikely destinations becoming the latest hotspots for mainland China tourists in Hong Kong? Shifts in the age, priorities and perspectives of mainland tourists in Hong Kong are posing unique challenges for businesses in capturing their attention and spending. 

[Post 737] Sightseeing train in Japan to offer passengers a taste of Singaporean cuisine

Summary

A sightseeing train in Japan connecting Tokyo and Saitama prefecture will offer passengers a taste of Singaporean cuisine from January. The Singapore-themed train, where they will be served Singaporean culinary delights while enjoying the changing seasonal scenery of Japan from their window, will run for three months. The tie-up between Seibu Railway and Singapore Tourism Board (STB) seeks to promote awareness of rural Japan to visitors, while encouraging more Japanese to travel to Singapore. CNA's Michiyo Ishida reports.

[Post 462] We Discuss BTO: Is It Worth Waiting For Your BTO, And What If You Forfeit Your Flat? | Money Mind

Summary

Is it still worth waiting for your BTO, and what do you do if you break up before collecting your keys?

[Post 461] Gen Z internship race: Fear of missing out or path to success? | Work It podcast

Summary

There is a growing trend of university students juggling multiple internships, even taking time off school to get valuable experience and a foot in the door of industries. Undergraduates Syauqina Amalyn and Toh Yan Yun explain their hustle mentality. 

[Post 460] Why Japan's Gen Zs Are Struggling With Loneliness - And Yet, They Wouldn't Change A Thing

Summary

There’s a growing trend in Japan, solo katsu, where more young people in their 20s and 30s prefer doing things alone rather than with company. And their reasons? Experts suggested one of them could be the Japanese mentality of not wanting to bother anyone. 

[Post 459] Top Money Mistakes People Make In Their 20s, And How You Can Avoid Them | Money Mind | Adulting

Summary

What are the top spending and saving mistakes people make in their 20s – and what are some simple ways to avoid these pitfalls? 

[Post 458] US Fed Might Pull Off A "Soft Landing". Why Does It Matter For You & What Happens Next? | Money Mind

Summary

The US Federal Reserve’s anticipated rate cuts are raising hopes of a soft landing for the world’s biggest economy. So what is a soft landing, and how can you benefit from one? 

[Post 457] US Interest Rate Cuts Coming? How Borrowers and Savers Can Prepare | Money Mind | Interest Rates

Summary

With rate cuts expected from the US Federal Reserve, what are the savvy money moves for borrowers and savers?