The Straits Times - April 16, 2025
The Straits Times - April 16, 2025
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In this issue
April 16, 2025
Singaporeans Will Go to the Polls on May 3; Nomination Day on April 23
Nation's 14th election since independence will see PAP contest all 97 seats in 33 constituencies, and likely be challenged for all of them
4 mins
Home owners in HDB loan arrears to receive help servicing mortgage
Home owners facing financial difficulties due to job or income loss will be allowed to reduce or defer their monthly loan installments for up to one year, instead of the current six months, under a new programme starting on April 15.
2 mins
DPM Heng Highlights Lessons for Administrative Service Officers
Public service and political leadership play different roles but pursue common purpose, he says
6 mins
Singaporean Households to Get $500 in CDC Vouchers From May 13
All Singaporean households will each receive $500 in CDC vouchers from May 13 to help them with their daily expenses.
1 min
CSA Advises Public To Look Out For Cyber Threats During Election Season
Fraudsters may set up fake social media accounts and political party websites, and send phishing e-mails to solicit donations to defraud Singaporeans ahead of Polling Day on May 3, the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) warned.
2 mins
PM Wong Calls Election at Time of 'Profund Changes in the World'
Singaporeans Should Decide on Team to Lead Nation at This Critical Juncture: PM
2 mins
Election deposit for candidates remains at $13,500
Candidates contesting this year's general election will need to pay $13,500 each, the same as in the 2020 election.
2 mins
PAP new face Kawal Pal Singh rules out candidacy
Lawyer Kawal Pal Singh has ruled himself out of running in the upcoming general election, two days after he was spotted in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC with Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat.
1 min
Every vote in East Coast GRC will be vital to PAP, says Edwin Tong
Every vote will be vital to the PAP in East Coast GRC, and the ruling party's team there will not take anything for granted, said Culture, Community and Youth Minister Edwin Tong.
2 mins
PM Wong says he has assembled dedicated team with 'heart to serve'
He calls for support from Singaporeans to help build brighter future together
2 mins
PAP plans for East Coast GRC unveiled on new website
A vision to make the \"East Side Best Side\" was unveiled on April 15, with the PAP representatives for East Coast GRC laying out a refreshed slate of promises and plans on a new website.
2 mins
WP Kick-Starts Election Campaign With Slogan 'Working for Singapore'
Party Urges Singaporeans to 'Step Up' as It Releases Teaser Video Featuring All Eight MPs
3 mins
PSP says it has been hard at work and is ready to engage voters
The opposition Progress Singapore Party has been hard at work to prepare for the 2025 General Election despite the redrawn boundaries and the short time to engage new residents, said party chief Leong Mun Wai on April 15.
2 mins
Law banning deepfakes of candidates in place for first time, among other guidelines: ELD
Rules related to online campaigning would protect prospective candidates
7 mins
Opposition parties ramp up election preparations, as some criticise date of polls
Here is what various opposition parties said after the Writ of Election was issued.
4 mins
Hamid Razak wants to do more for families on the margins
After nearly two years leading PAP efforts on the ground in Jurong Spring, new face Hamid Razak wants to do more for those on the margins of society — particularly those in what he calls \"no-buffer households\".
3 mins
Property market should start to ease with larger housing supply in pipeline, says Desmond Lee
The public and private housing markets have started to stabilise, and the property market should start to ease when housing supply increases, said National Development Minister Desmond Lee on April 15.
2 mins
Desmond Lee to anchor West Coast-Jurong West PAP team; Patrick Tay to defend Pioneer SMC
GRC team includes 2 new faces - lawyer Cassandra Lee and orthopaedic surgeon Hamid Razak
3 mins
Cassandra Lee aims to push for more attention to struggles of young families
PAP new face Cassandra Lee, 33, wants to be a voice for young parents and youth, if she is elected as an MP for West Coast-Jurong West GRC.
3 mins
PAP Fields Unchanged Team in Holland-Bukit Timah; Liang Eng Hwa to Defend Bukit Panjang Seat
They have right blend of experience and youth, says Vivian, who again leads GRC team
5 mins
PAP newcomer and ex-MOT director Foo Cexiang joins PSA Singapore
PAP newcomer Foo Cexiang has joined port operator PSA Singapore as vice-president for port ecosystem development.
1 min
Xi Arrives in Malaysia, Pledges Deeper Ties Amid Escalating US-China Trade War
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Malaysia's capital on April 15, the second stop on a whirlwind three-nation tour in South-east Asia, at a time when an escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies is threatening to upend the world order.
2 mins
Former Malaysian PM Abdullah Laid to Rest After Thousands Pay Their Respects
Anwar and country's former leaders, as well as Singapore's SM Lee, among those present
2 mins
Chinese President's Vietnam Trip Aimed at Hurting US: Trump
Chinese President Xi Jinping paid tribute to Vietnam's late revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh on April 15, his last day of a trip to Hanoi that President Donald Trump said was aiming to \"screw\" the US.
2 mins
Trump Announces Probes Into Chips and Drugs, Opening Door to Tariffs
Investigation Into Imports' Impact on US National Security Likely to Broaden Trade War
4 mins
China's Export Curbs on Critical Minerals Pose Risk for US Military Programmes
On Air Force fighter jets, magnets made of rare earth minerals that are mined or processed in China are needed to start the engines and provide emergency power.
3 mins
Australia asks Indonesia about Russian request to base aircraft in Papua
Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government has asked Indonesia about a report in defence publication Janes that Russia has requested basing military aircraft in Papua, as the issue dominated the election campaign Down Under on April 15.
1 min
Zuckerberg Defends Meta's Acquisitions in High-Stakes US Antitrust Trial
He Disputes Govt Agency's Claims of Illegal Monopoly in Buying Instagram, WhatsApp
5 mins
Trump blames Zelensky and Biden too for ‘millions’ of deaths in Ukraine war
US President Donald Trump resumed his attempts on April 14 to blame Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky for failing to prevent the war in Ukraine, falsely accusing him of responsibility for “millions” of deaths.
2 mins
Jury's Out as Japan Makes Case for Digital Education Being the Norm
Advocates Note Collaborative Learning But Critics Say Students Will Be Easily Distracted
5 mins
Four arrested in Japan for selling obscene images created by AI
Japanese police have arrested four people for selling obscene images created using generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the first crackdown of its kind, local media reports said on April 15.
1 min
Europe Had Most Widespread Floods in More Than a Decade in 2024
Europe faced its most widespread flooding in 2024 since 2013, with 30 percent of the continent's river network hit by significant floods, scientists said on April 15, as fossil fuel-driven climate change continued to prompt torrential rain and other extreme weather.
2 mins
Ex-Tory MP among 15 charged over 2024 UK election timing bets
A former British MP and close aide of former prime minister Rishi Sunak was among 15 people charged with gambling offences in relation to the timing of the 2024 general election, a watchdog said on April 14.
1 min
S. Korean airport was often warned about bird strikes before plane crash
It lacked equipment used to alert air traffic controllers and pilots to presence of birds
7 mins
New NTU research centre to zoom in on health risks of climate change in tropics
A new research centre that aims to tackle the health risks of climate change in the tropics was launched at Nanyang Technological University on April 15.
2 mins
Boy looked lifeless when rescued... his mouth was burnt,' says doc who helped River Valley fire victims
Dr Laura Biffin was working in her clinic in River Valley Road on April 8 when she heard a commotion coming from Tomato Cooking School, located down the road.
2 mins
New tech can help detect emotional distress during prison tele-visits
This would enable officers to step in and intervene; system to go on trial from Oct
3 mins
Halimah filing police report against deepfake video that captured her voice
Singapore's former president Halimah Yacob says she will be making a police report after coming across a deepfake video of herself allegedly making negative statements about the Government.
1 min
Billion-dollar nickel scam: More details of luxe car buys emerge as dealers take stand
Less than a year after he paid $490,000 for a Bentley Mulsanne, alleged fraudster Ng Yu Zhi traded in the luxury car for an Aston Martin Rapide he bought for a man who is believed to be a family member.
2 mins
Got career-related queries? ST's new AI chatbot is here to answer them
Virtual mentor gives expert advice drawn from archive of over 5,000 ST articles
3 mins
What's The News? quiz contest kicks off with St Gabriel's event
On the morning of April 15, Julien Fok found himself racking his brain to remember volcano names as he worked his way through an online quiz.
3 mins
Never Too Late For Fun
First seniors' cheerleading team takes the stage
4 mins
Singapore shares extend rally as regional indexes end higher
• STI rises 2.1%, led by Frasers Logistics & Commercial Trust • DBS, OCBC and UOB continue upward climb • Gains all around for Kospi, Nikkei, Hang Seng and KLCI
1 min
New private home sales fall amid lack of mega launches
New private home sales slipped to 729 units in March from the 1,597 units sold in February, owing to a lack of mega launches compared with a more active launch pipeline in the first two months of 2025.
3 mins
Minority shareholders at GE question re-election of OCBC chief to board
They raise concerns at AGM amid bank's ongoing efforts to take the insurer private
5 mins
SIA premium lounges at Changi's T2 set for $45m upgrade
National carrier Singapore Airlines (SIA) will spend $45 million to upgrade its premium lounges at Changi Airport Terminal 2, with the renovations to be carried out in phases over two years.
2 mins
Candy maker YLF halts IPO plan; auto group Vin's rises on SGX debut
The first two companies to apply for listing on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) in 2025 have seen different outcomes, with one abruptly pulling its plans to go public, and the other successfully debuting on Catalist.
1 min
S'pore cyber-related trust marks enhanced to meet emerging risks
Firms can now have new areas in cloud, AI and operational technology certified
3 mins
Trump's silencing of US spooks
Dismissal of National Security Agency chief after complaint by a far-right activist highlights the damage inflicted on the intelligence community by a hostile President.
7 mins
This Is How Singapore Can Emerge stronger in a 'win-lose' world
When global trade relations based on a level playing field are threatened with collapse, how should Singapore respond? Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong offered his views at a dialogue with union leaders on April 14. The following are edited excerpts from his speech.
10+ mins
Stronger in a 'win-lose' world
Talking about the Johor-Singapore SEZ. In Johor, companies can go there, they can have favourable terms and Singapore companies can prosper.
7 mins
Elon Musk and the dangerous myth of omnigenius
Doge's disastrous decisions highlight the hazards of the 'halo effect' that has seen other corporate leaders who switch industries struggle.
3 mins
What can workers do if they're fired by AI?
Increasing use of algorithmic tools to make high-stakes decisions from recruitment to performance management raises questions about accountability.
3 mins
Penal Code Time to rename it
The term \"penal\" is generally understood to mean punishment for breaking the law.
1 min
Beneficiaries: Let banks disburse money to nominees just like CPF
For most Singaporeans, the disbursement of their biggest two assets when they die is already in place.
1 min
Chronic conditions • A happier patient because of Care @ Home programme
I refer to the recent article on Mobile Inpatient Care @ Home, “More patients to be offered choice to receive hospital care at home” (April 13).
1 min
Letter of the day Pair clean-up efforts with long-term education and waste prevention
I refer to the recent report \"New initiative to get schools, community businesses to keep neighbourhoods clean in Singapore\" (April 13).
1 min
Still Some Mileage Left In Circuit Mission's Legs
At 10, Penang Sprint Trophy winner is still working a treat as 2025 KL comeback nears
3 mins
Stick with class-dropper Major Master first-up
April 16 South Africa (Kenilworth) form analysis
2 mins
King Miles Can Beat The Draw
April 16 Hong Kong (Happy Valley) form analysis
5 mins
Warriors Not 'Senior Citizens'
Golden State Bank on Veterans Like Curry and Butler to Clinch Play-off Spot
3 mins
Suns May Trade Durant After Firing Budenholzer
The Phoenix Suns fired coach Mike Budenholzer on April 14 after the team failed to reach the National Basketball Association (NBA) playoffs, despite having the largest payroll in the league.
2 mins
Bueckers set to take flight in WNBA with Wings
Paige Bueckers was chosen by the Dallas Wings with the No. 1 pick in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) Draft on April 14, crowning a successful season that saw her lead the University of Connecticut to the United States collegiate championship earlier in April.
2 mins
Easy for Critics to Talk, Says Alcaraz
Spaniard unfazed by detractors, regains belief after unexpected Monte Carlo title
3 mins
Saudi Interested in Owning an F1 Team, Says Prince
Owning a Formula One team could be the next step for Saudi Arabia after sponsoring the sport and hosting a grand prix, according to the chairman of the kingdom's automobile and motor-cycle federation.
2 mins
Red Bull's slow start a 'concern' for Verstappen
Red Bull's early-season struggles amid set-up concerns have the team scrambling for ways to improve, after four-time Formula One world champion Max Verstappen finished in sixth place on April 13 in the Bahrain Grand Prix.
2 mins
Stags Stronger as Faris Regains Form
Tampines face Pathum in Cup semis with winger firing again after return from injury
3 mins
Versatile Vincent leads Victoria to B Div floorball 3-peat
Playing in this season's National School Games (NSG), Victoria School's Vincent Hyun has had to adapt.
2 mins
Refs' body cams give Club World Cup fans new view
Fifa unveiled its team of 117 match officials on April 14 for the inaugural Club World Cup and said referees would wear body cameras and enforce stricter goalkeeper time-wasting rules at the tournament to be staged across the United States.
2 mins
Bayern Don't Need a Miracle, Insists Kimmich
Bayern Munich and Harry Kane head to Inter Milan on April 16, needing a victory to reach the semi-finals and keep their dream of playing in a home Champions League final alive.
2 mins
Real Chance With Mbappe In Their Ranks
Star's explosive edge gives La Liga side hope of overturning 3-0 deficit against Arsenal
3 mins
Big deals ahead in summer for Reds: Van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk expects a \"big summer\" for Liverpool in the transfer market as he reportedly closes in on a deal that will secure his future at Anfield.
2 mins
Law Among 12 To Get New Award
Taijiquan world champ to start uni in 2026, with help from spexEducation scholarship
3 mins
S'pore Marathon splits race schedule for better experience
For the first time in the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon (SCSM), the half-marathon and marathon will be held on separate days to provide runners with a smoother and more enjoyable race-day experience, the organisers announced on April 15.
2 mins
More Pain When It Rains
Some people say their aches and pains get worse when it rains. It may be because they are more sensitive to air pressure, but the research is inconclusive
7 mins
What happens to your brain when you retire
For the millions of Americans who retire each year, stopping work might seem like a well-deserved break. But it can also precipitate big changes in brain health, including an increased risk of cognitive decline and depression.
4 mins
Hop into a skipping routine
A step and hop on repeat can help build power, agility and speed, and improve coordination, balance and mobility
3 mins
Should you always be sore after a workout?
If I am not sore after I exercise, did it even count?
3 mins
Live like a K-pop star at China 'idol experience centre'
In a studio tucked in a Shanghai mall, Ms Shirley Chen is living out her K-pop idol dreams.
1 min
NO SMILES FOR 'UNFUNNY' SNL SKIT:
English actress Aimee Lou Wood, a star of HBO series The White Lotus 3, has criticised American comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL) for a sketch that mocked her smile, calling it \"mean and unfunny\".
1 min
Dick Lee to curate new exhibition on local culture
SingaPop! 60 Years Of Singapore Pop Culture
1 min
Andre Chiang to open restaurant in Raffles Hotel Singapore
Taiwanese celebrity chef Andre Chiang will open a restaurant in Raffles Hotel Singapore in late 2025.
2 mins
The Straits Times Newspaper Description:
Publisher: SPH Media Limited
Category: Newspaper
Language: English
Frequency: Daily
Unlock your access to award-winning journalism on Singapore and the world. With bureaus in major cities around the world, The Straits Times correspondents bring world news to readers on a Singapore platter, helping them appreciate world events from a Singaporean perspective.
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