East-West Line track fault cleared, train services resume with minor delays; Lee Hsien Loong receives Australia's top civilian honour for bilateral impact: Singapore live news

Yahoo

4 days ago

SMRT has cleared the point machine fault near Jurong East that disrupted East-West MRT Line services on Wednesday (6 August). Train operations between Boon Lay and Buona Vista resumed fully by 11:05am, following progressive restoration from 10:58am. Commuters are advised to add 10 minutes to their travel time as services stabilise.
Earlier, delays of up to 25 minutes prompted SMRT to deploy free regular and bridging bus services, which have now ended. The fault affected train switching at junctions, requiring slower speeds for safety. SMRT President Lam Sheau Kai apologised for the inconvenience and thanked commuters for their patience. The rest of the East-West Line continued running normally. SMRT continues to monitor operations and provide updates. (Updated throughout.)
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong has received Australia's highest civilian honour, the Honorary Companion of the Order of Australia, for his 'eminent service' to bilateral ties. The award recognises his 40-year political career and his leadership in strengthening trade, defence, and strategic partnerships between Singapore and Australia. SM Lee was praised for revising the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement, launching the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and supporting Australia's inclusion in regional forums.
In his acceptance speech, he said he was 'deeply humbled' and accepted the award on behalf of generations who built the relationship. The ceremony was attended by government officials and members of the Singapore-Australia Parliamentary Friendship Group. SM Lee expressed optimism about the future of the partnership, especially with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's upcoming visit. The honour places him among a select group of foreign leaders recognised by Australia.
Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates.
SMRT restores train services after East-West Line disruption
Train services on Singapore's East-West MRT Line have resumed after a point machine fault near Jurong East disrupted morning operations. SMRT confirmed at 11:05am on Wednesday (6 Aug) that the fault had been cleared and services between Boon Lay and Buona Vista were fully restored.
Earlier in the morning, commuters faced delays of up to 25 minutes due to the fault, which affected train switching at track junctions. SMRT deployed free regular and bridging bus services to ease congestion, which have now ended. Commuters heading to Jurong East were earlier advised to reroute via Woodlands and Bishan stations using the Thomson-East Coast and Circle Lines.
As services resume, SMRT advises commuters to add approximately 10 minutes to their travel time between Boon Lay and Buona Vista. The rest of the East-West Line operated normally throughout the disruption.
SMRT issued updates via social media and in-station announcements, and encouraged affected passengers to download e-Travel chits as documentation for delays.
President of SMRT Trains, Mr Lam Sheau Kai, apologised for the inconvenience and thanked commuters for their patience while engineers worked to resolve the issue.
(Updated throughout)
SM Lee honoured with Australia's highest civilian award
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong has received the Honorary Companion of the Order of Australia, the country's highest civilian honour, for his pivotal role in advancing bilateral ties. The award was presented during an investiture ceremony hosted by the Australian High Commissioner.
The citation highlighted SM Lee's leadership in forging trade, defence and strategic partnerships. Under his watch, Singapore and Australia signed multiple agreements, including the Digital Economy and Green Economy pacts, and deepened military cooperation through the Five Power Defence Arrangements.
SM Lee reflected on Australia's early recognition of Singapore's independence and its enduring support. He noted that the two nations, despite their differences, share a pragmatic worldview and commitment to multilateralism.
The ceremony was attended by Mrs Lee, government officials, and members of the Singapore-Australia Parliamentary Friendship Group. SM Lee expressed confidence that the relationship will continue to flourish under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's upcoming visit.
'His statesmanship cemented Australia as a natural partner for Singapore,' officials noted during the ceremony.
This award follows similar recognition given to former leaders like Goh Chok Tong and George Yeo, underscoring Singapore's longstanding diplomatic rapport with Australia.
Read on SM Lee given Australia's highest civilian honour here.
Singapore Airlines crew mistake leads Muslim passenger to eat pork
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has apologised after a Muslim passenger was served pork on an 18-hour flight to New York. The dish, containing prosciutto, was misidentified by cabin crew who didn't know it was pork, according to Mothership.
The passenger, Jiyad, had pre-booked a Muslim meal for one service but chose a 'Book the Cook' option for another. He said the dish had no pork label and was assured by crew it was safe to eat.
After realising the mistake, he filed a complaint and rejected multiple compensation offers. He has since escalated the issue to the US Department of Transportation.
SIA says it has strengthened crew training and service procedures. It also reminded passengers to pre-select special meals for all services on long-haul flights.
Read on the Muslim passenger mistakenly served pork aboard SIA flight here.
Malaysians caught smuggling drugs at Woodlands face death penalty; Singaporean nabbed in follow-up operation
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) have arrested two Malaysian men in separate drug smuggling attempts at Woodlands Checkpoint. Follow-up investigations led to the arrest of a 52-year-old Singaporean man near Bras Basah.
The combined haul, worth over $150,000, included methamphetamine, ecstasy, cannabis and ketamine. ICA and CNB estimate the drugs could feed over 820 addicts for a week.
A Malaysian motorcyclist was caught with 4,149g of cannabis and 10g of ketamine concealed in his vehicle's rear box on 2 August. The cannabis alone could feed 590 addicts for a week.
ICA officers found 414g of methamphetamine and 46g of ecstasy hidden in a car and on the driver's body on 31 July. CNB later arrested a 52-year-old Singaporean linked to the case.
Singapore's Misuse of Drugs Act mandates the death penalty for importing more than 250g of meth or 500g of cannabis. Both cases meet that threshold.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing and border checks will remain tight.
Read on Singapore authorities busting drug smuggling attempts here.
US axes mRNA vaccine funding, citing safety risks
The Trump administration has terminated 22 federal contracts for mRNA-based vaccines, citing safety concerns and limited efficacy against respiratory infections like COVID-19 and flu. US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr announced the move on Tuesday (5 August), marking a dramatic shift in US vaccine policy.
The cancelled projects, worth nearly US$500 million, include proposals from pharmaceutical companies Moderna, Pfizer and Sanofi. While some late-stage contracts will continue to preserve taxpayer investment, no new mRNA initiatives will be launched under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).
Kennedy said the decision followed a comprehensive review of mRNA-related investments. 'We're shifting funding toward safer, broader vaccine platforms,' he stated, referencing whole-virus vaccines and novel technologies.
Public health experts have condemned the move. Dr Paul Offit called it 'short-sighted', while epidemiologist Mike Osterholm warned it could cripple future pandemic response.
Despite the backlash, Kennedy insists HHS remains committed to safe and effective vaccines.
Read on the US ending mRNA vaccine fundings here.
Israel's Netanyahu pushes for full Gaza takeover as ceasefire talks collapse
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to order a full military occupation of Gaza, citing the need to 'complete the defeat of Hamas' and secure the release of hostages. The move comes as ceasefire negotiations with Hamas reach a deadlock, with both sides blaming each other for the impasse.
Netanyahu's office confirmed a three-hour security meeting with army chief Eyal Zamir, ahead of a cabinet session expected to greenlight expanded operations. Israeli media report that Netanyahu wants the army to enter areas where hostages may be held, despite IDF concerns over risks to captives.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. UN agencies warn of famine, with over 60,000 Palestinians killed and dozens dying from starvation. Aid deliveries remain restricted, and looting of incoming supplies is rampant.
Hamas insists it will not shift its position unless Israeli forces withdraw. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's far-right coalition partners are pushing for permanent reoccupation and Jewish resettlement of Gaza.
The international community is watching closely. UN officials warn that further escalation could have 'catastrophic consequences' for civilians and hostages alike.
Read on Israel considering total occupation of Gaza here.
Dormant cancer cells multiply after COVID, flu infection
Scientists have discovered that COVID-19 and influenza can awaken dormant cancer cells, potentially leading to relapse and metastasis. The study, published in Nature, found that inflammation from these viruses activates immune proteins that trigger cell proliferation.
In mice, dormant breast cancer cells multiplied rapidly after infection, forming metastatic lesions within two weeks. The process was driven by IL-6, a molecule released during immune response.
Human data confirms the risk. Cancer survivors who tested positive for COVID had significantly higher rates of cancer-related death and lung metastases.
The research suggests that respiratory infections may silently reignite cancer, even in patients long considered cured. It's a wake-up call for oncologists and survivors alike.
Read on how respiratory viruses may trigger cancer relapse here.
AI-powered job scam nets millions for North Korea
North Korean IT workers are gaming the global job market, using GenAI to infiltrate hundreds of companies and rake in millions. The operation has grown 220 per cent in just 12 months.
CrowdStrike reports operatives use deepfake video interviews, AI-written resumes and multilingual bots to pass hiring stages. Once inside, they juggle multiple jobs undetected.
The regime trains tech talent in Pyongyang, then deploys them to countries like China, Russia and the UAE. Each worker must earn $10,000 monthly, often through legitimate IT work.
Court records show Fortune 500 firms have unknowingly hired thousands of these operatives. Some have aided cyberattacks and crypto thefts.
The scam blends espionage, AI and employment fraud, raising alarms across the cybersecurity world.
Read on North Korea's GenAI job scam surging over 200% here.
What makes Singapore irresistible
Singapore's got a lot going for it. Locals and tourists rave about the hawker food, spotless streets and ultra-efficient public transport. The city's blend of tradition and tech makes it a standout in Southeast Asia.
But it's not all smooth sailing. The humidity is relentless, and shopping streets like Orchard Road can feel like a sardine can. Prices, especially for drinks and hotels, can leave wallets gasping.
Still, the city's safety, multicultural vibe, and green spaces keep people coming back. Whether you're here for kaya toast or skyline selfies, Singapore's got universal appeal.
Just pack an umbrella and patience.
Read on why Singapore wins hearts worldwide here.
Singapore Gen Z chef builds restaurant on grandma's Peranakan recipes
When engineering didn't click, Ernest Ang turned to the one thing that did – his grandmother's Peranakan cooking. After months of persuasion and kitchen shadowing, he unlocked her secret recipes and launched Kokoyo Nyonya Delights.
The eatery, tucked in Serangoon, runs on $13,500 rent and 12-hour workdays. Ang and three friends handle operations, while grandma remains the final judge of every dish.
Her recipes, once too precious to share, now power a menu of bold, fragrant classics. Ang's dedication includes prepping rice through a 23-step process and refusing to serve leftovers.
The restaurant's name, logo, and even discounts for grandparents pay homage to the matriarch who made it all possible. For Ang, it's not just food – it's family.
Read on how Singaporean chef Ernest Ang honours his grandma's legacy here.
SAF recruits to train in drone warfare and countermeasures
Singapore's Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) is rolling out drone training for all new recruits, Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing announced during a visit to Pulau Tekong on Monday (4 Aug). The move reflects the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF) push to modernise its capabilities amid rising unmanned threats.
Recruits will learn to fly drones and counter them through a phased curriculum, starting with self-directed videos, followed by simulations and field exercises. The first batch of over 3,000 recruits began training in July and will graduate in September.
Chan emphasised the need for spatial awareness in three dimensions, noting that urban warfare and drone proliferation demand more than traditional ground-based tactics. 'Soldiers must think 3D,' he said.
The SAF is also developing doctrine to evade drone detection and integrate unmanned systems into tactical operations.
Recruits will eventually operate a suite of technologies, including drones and robots, alongside conventional weapons.
Read on BMTC going high-tech with drones here.
National Day weekend: ICA warns travellers expect heavy checkpoint traffic
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has issued a travel advisory ahead of the National Day weekend, warning of heavy congestion at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from 8 to 10 August. Travellers heading to Malaysia should expect longer immigration clearance times.
The advisory follows record-breaking traffic during the June school holidays, when daily crossings averaged over 525,000. On 20 June alone, 578,000 people crossed the land checkpoints, surpassing the previous high of 562,000 in December 2024.
Car travellers during peak hours faced up to three-hour waits due to tailbacks from Malaysia. ICA recommends using cross-border bus services to avoid congestion and checking traffic conditions via the MyTransport.SG app or ICA's social media channels.
Motorists are urged to use QR codes for faster clearance and refrain from queue-cutting, which could result in being turned away. ICA also reminds travellers to ensure passport validity and settle outstanding fines before departure.
With National Day falling on Saturday, the long weekend is expected to draw thousands across the Causeway.
Read on ICA's travel advisory for National Day weekend here.
Train services on Singapore's East-West MRT Line have resumed after a point machine fault near Jurong East disrupted morning operations. SMRT confirmed at 11:05am on Wednesday (6 Aug) that the fault had been cleared and services between Boon Lay and Buona Vista were fully restored.
Earlier in the morning, commuters faced delays of up to 25 minutes due to the fault, which affected train switching at track junctions. SMRT deployed free regular and bridging bus services to ease congestion, which have now ended. Commuters heading to Jurong East were earlier advised to reroute via Woodlands and Bishan stations using the Thomson-East Coast and Circle Lines.
As services resume, SMRT advises commuters to add approximately 10 minutes to their travel time between Boon Lay and Buona Vista. The rest of the East-West Line operated normally throughout the disruption.
SMRT issued updates via social media and in-station announcements, and encouraged affected passengers to download e-Travel chits as documentation for delays.
President of SMRT Trains, Mr Lam Sheau Kai, apologised for the inconvenience and thanked commuters for their patience while engineers worked to resolve the issue.
(Updated throughout)
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong has received the Honorary Companion of the Order of Australia, the country's highest civilian honour, for his pivotal role in advancing bilateral ties. The award was presented during an investiture ceremony hosted by the Australian High Commissioner.
The citation highlighted SM Lee's leadership in forging trade, defence and strategic partnerships. Under his watch, Singapore and Australia signed multiple agreements, including the Digital Economy and Green Economy pacts, and deepened military cooperation through the Five Power Defence Arrangements.
SM Lee reflected on Australia's early recognition of Singapore's independence and its enduring support. He noted that the two nations, despite their differences, share a pragmatic worldview and commitment to multilateralism.
The ceremony was attended by Mrs Lee, government officials, and members of the Singapore-Australia Parliamentary Friendship Group. SM Lee expressed confidence that the relationship will continue to flourish under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's upcoming visit.
'His statesmanship cemented Australia as a natural partner for Singapore,' officials noted during the ceremony.
This award follows similar recognition given to former leaders like Goh Chok Tong and George Yeo, underscoring Singapore's longstanding diplomatic rapport with Australia.
Read on SM Lee given Australia's highest civilian honour here.
Singapore Airlines crew mistake leads Muslim passenger to eat pork
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has apologised after a Muslim passenger was served pork on an 18-hour flight to New York. The dish, containing prosciutto, was misidentified by cabin crew who didn't know it was pork, according to Mothership.
The passenger, Jiyad, had pre-booked a Muslim meal for one service but chose a 'Book the Cook' option for another. He said the dish had no pork label and was assured by crew it was safe to eat.
After realising the mistake, he filed a complaint and rejected multiple compensation offers. He has since escalated the issue to the US Department of Transportation.
SIA says it has strengthened crew training and service procedures. It also reminded passengers to pre-select special meals for all services on long-haul flights.
Read on the Muslim passenger mistakenly served pork aboard SIA flight here.
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has apologised after a Muslim passenger was served pork on an 18-hour flight to New York. The dish, containing prosciutto, was misidentified by cabin crew who didn't know it was pork, according to Mothership.
The passenger, Jiyad, had pre-booked a Muslim meal for one service but chose a 'Book the Cook' option for another. He said the dish had no pork label and was assured by crew it was safe to eat.
After realising the mistake, he filed a complaint and rejected multiple compensation offers. He has since escalated the issue to the US Department of Transportation.
SIA says it has strengthened crew training and service procedures. It also reminded passengers to pre-select special meals for all services on long-haul flights.
Read on the Muslim passenger mistakenly served pork aboard SIA flight here.
Malaysians caught smuggling drugs at Woodlands face death penalty; Singaporean nabbed in follow-up operation
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) have arrested two Malaysian men in separate drug smuggling attempts at Woodlands Checkpoint. Follow-up investigations led to the arrest of a 52-year-old Singaporean man near Bras Basah.
The combined haul, worth over $150,000, included methamphetamine, ecstasy, cannabis and ketamine. ICA and CNB estimate the drugs could feed over 820 addicts for a week.
A Malaysian motorcyclist was caught with 4,149g of cannabis and 10g of ketamine concealed in his vehicle's rear box on 2 August. The cannabis alone could feed 590 addicts for a week.
ICA officers found 414g of methamphetamine and 46g of ecstasy hidden in a car and on the driver's body on 31 July. CNB later arrested a 52-year-old Singaporean linked to the case.
Singapore's Misuse of Drugs Act mandates the death penalty for importing more than 250g of meth or 500g of cannabis. Both cases meet that threshold.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing and border checks will remain tight.
Read on Singapore authorities busting drug smuggling attempts here.
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) have arrested two Malaysian men in separate drug smuggling attempts at Woodlands Checkpoint. Follow-up investigations led to the arrest of a 52-year-old Singaporean man near Bras Basah.
The combined haul, worth over $150,000, included methamphetamine, ecstasy, cannabis and ketamine. ICA and CNB estimate the drugs could feed over 820 addicts for a week.
A Malaysian motorcyclist was caught with 4,149g of cannabis and 10g of ketamine concealed in his vehicle's rear box on 2 August. The cannabis alone could feed 590 addicts for a week.
ICA officers found 414g of methamphetamine and 46g of ecstasy hidden in a car and on the driver's body on 31 July. CNB later arrested a 52-year-old Singaporean linked to the case.
Singapore's Misuse of Drugs Act mandates the death penalty for importing more than 250g of meth or 500g of cannabis. Both cases meet that threshold.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing and border checks will remain tight.
Read on Singapore authorities busting drug smuggling attempts here.
US axes mRNA vaccine funding, citing safety risks
The Trump administration has terminated 22 federal contracts for mRNA-based vaccines, citing safety concerns and limited efficacy against respiratory infections like COVID-19 and flu. US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr announced the move on Tuesday (5 August), marking a dramatic shift in US vaccine policy.
The cancelled projects, worth nearly US$500 million, include proposals from pharmaceutical companies Moderna, Pfizer and Sanofi. While some late-stage contracts will continue to preserve taxpayer investment, no new mRNA initiatives will be launched under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).
Kennedy said the decision followed a comprehensive review of mRNA-related investments. 'We're shifting funding toward safer, broader vaccine platforms,' he stated, referencing whole-virus vaccines and novel technologies.
Public health experts have condemned the move. Dr Paul Offit called it 'short-sighted', while epidemiologist Mike Osterholm warned it could cripple future pandemic response.
Despite the backlash, Kennedy insists HHS remains committed to safe and effective vaccines.
Read on the US ending mRNA vaccine fundings here.
The Trump administration has terminated 22 federal contracts for mRNA-based vaccines, citing safety concerns and limited efficacy against respiratory infections like COVID-19 and flu. US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr announced the move on Tuesday (5 August), marking a dramatic shift in US vaccine policy.
The cancelled projects, worth nearly US$500 million, include proposals from pharmaceutical companies Moderna, Pfizer and Sanofi. While some late-stage contracts will continue to preserve taxpayer investment, no new mRNA initiatives will be launched under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).
Kennedy said the decision followed a comprehensive review of mRNA-related investments. 'We're shifting funding toward safer, broader vaccine platforms,' he stated, referencing whole-virus vaccines and novel technologies.
Public health experts have condemned the move. Dr Paul Offit called it 'short-sighted', while epidemiologist Mike Osterholm warned it could cripple future pandemic response.
Despite the backlash, Kennedy insists HHS remains committed to safe and effective vaccines.
Read on the US ending mRNA vaccine fundings here.
Israel's Netanyahu pushes for full Gaza takeover as ceasefire talks collapse
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to order a full military occupation of Gaza, citing the need to 'complete the defeat of Hamas' and secure the release of hostages. The move comes as ceasefire negotiations with Hamas reach a deadlock, with both sides blaming each other for the impasse.
Netanyahu's office confirmed a three-hour security meeting with army chief Eyal Zamir, ahead of a cabinet session expected to greenlight expanded operations. Israeli media report that Netanyahu wants the army to enter areas where hostages may be held, despite IDF concerns over risks to captives.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. UN agencies warn of famine, with over 60,000 Palestinians killed and dozens dying from starvation. Aid deliveries remain restricted, and looting of incoming supplies is rampant.
Hamas insists it will not shift its position unless Israeli forces withdraw. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's far-right coalition partners are pushing for permanent reoccupation and Jewish resettlement of Gaza.
The international community is watching closely. UN officials warn that further escalation could have 'catastrophic consequences' for civilians and hostages alike.
Read on Israel considering total occupation of Gaza here.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to order a full military occupation of Gaza, citing the need to 'complete the defeat of Hamas' and secure the release of hostages. The move comes as ceasefire negotiations with Hamas reach a deadlock, with both sides blaming each other for the impasse.
Netanyahu's office confirmed a three-hour security meeting with army chief Eyal Zamir, ahead of a cabinet session expected to greenlight expanded operations. Israeli media report that Netanyahu wants the army to enter areas where hostages may be held, despite IDF concerns over risks to captives.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. UN agencies warn of famine, with over 60,000 Palestinians killed and dozens dying from starvation. Aid deliveries remain restricted, and looting of incoming supplies is rampant.
Hamas insists it will not shift its position unless Israeli forces withdraw. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's far-right coalition partners are pushing for permanent reoccupation and Jewish resettlement of Gaza.
The international community is watching closely. UN officials warn that further escalation could have 'catastrophic consequences' for civilians and hostages alike.
Read on Israel considering total occupation of Gaza here.
Dormant cancer cells multiply after COVID, flu infection
Scientists have discovered that COVID-19 and influenza can awaken dormant cancer cells, potentially leading to relapse and metastasis. The study, published in Nature, found that inflammation from these viruses activates immune proteins that trigger cell proliferation.
In mice, dormant breast cancer cells multiplied rapidly after infection, forming metastatic lesions within two weeks. The process was driven by IL-6, a molecule released during immune response.
Human data confirms the risk. Cancer survivors who tested positive for COVID had significantly higher rates of cancer-related death and lung metastases.
The research suggests that respiratory infections may silently reignite cancer, even in patients long considered cured. It's a wake-up call for oncologists and survivors alike.
Read on how respiratory viruses may trigger cancer relapse here.
Scientists have discovered that COVID-19 and influenza can awaken dormant cancer cells, potentially leading to relapse and metastasis. The study, published in Nature, found that inflammation from these viruses activates immune proteins that trigger cell proliferation.
In mice, dormant breast cancer cells multiplied rapidly after infection, forming metastatic lesions within two weeks. The process was driven by IL-6, a molecule released during immune response.
Human data confirms the risk. Cancer survivors who tested positive for COVID had significantly higher rates of cancer-related death and lung metastases.
The research suggests that respiratory infections may silently reignite cancer, even in patients long considered cured. It's a wake-up call for oncologists and survivors alike.
Read on how respiratory viruses may trigger cancer relapse here.
AI-powered job scam nets millions for North Korea
North Korean IT workers are gaming the global job market, using GenAI to infiltrate hundreds of companies and rake in millions. The operation has grown 220 per cent in just 12 months.
CrowdStrike reports operatives use deepfake video interviews, AI-written resumes and multilingual bots to pass hiring stages. Once inside, they juggle multiple jobs undetected.
The regime trains tech talent in Pyongyang, then deploys them to countries like China, Russia and the UAE. Each worker must earn $10,000 monthly, often through legitimate IT work.
Court records show Fortune 500 firms have unknowingly hired thousands of these operatives. Some have aided cyberattacks and crypto thefts.
The scam blends espionage, AI and employment fraud, raising alarms across the cybersecurity world.
Read on North Korea's GenAI job scam surging over 200% here.
North Korean IT workers are gaming the global job market, using GenAI to infiltrate hundreds of companies and rake in millions. The operation has grown 220 per cent in just 12 months.
CrowdStrike reports operatives use deepfake video interviews, AI-written resumes and multilingual bots to pass hiring stages. Once inside, they juggle multiple jobs undetected.
The regime trains tech talent in Pyongyang, then deploys them to countries like China, Russia and the UAE. Each worker must earn $10,000 monthly, often through legitimate IT work.
Court records show Fortune 500 firms have unknowingly hired thousands of these operatives. Some have aided cyberattacks and crypto thefts.
The scam blends espionage, AI and employment fraud, raising alarms across the cybersecurity world.
Read on North Korea's GenAI job scam surging over 200% here.
What makes Singapore irresistible
Singapore's got a lot going for it. Locals and tourists rave about the hawker food, spotless streets and ultra-efficient public transport. The city's blend of tradition and tech makes it a standout in Southeast Asia.
But it's not all smooth sailing. The humidity is relentless, and shopping streets like Orchard Road can feel like a sardine can. Prices, especially for drinks and hotels, can leave wallets gasping.
Still, the city's safety, multicultural vibe, and green spaces keep people coming back. Whether you're here for kaya toast or skyline selfies, Singapore's got universal appeal.
Just pack an umbrella and patience.
Read on why Singapore wins hearts worldwide here.
Singapore's got a lot going for it. Locals and tourists rave about the hawker food, spotless streets and ultra-efficient public transport. The city's blend of tradition and tech makes it a standout in Southeast Asia.
But it's not all smooth sailing. The humidity is relentless, and shopping streets like Orchard Road can feel like a sardine can. Prices, especially for drinks and hotels, can leave wallets gasping.
Still, the city's safety, multicultural vibe, and green spaces keep people coming back. Whether you're here for kaya toast or skyline selfies, Singapore's got universal appeal.
Just pack an umbrella and patience.
Read on why Singapore wins hearts worldwide here.
Singapore Gen Z chef builds restaurant on grandma's Peranakan recipes
When engineering didn't click, Ernest Ang turned to the one thing that did – his grandmother's Peranakan cooking. After months of persuasion and kitchen shadowing, he unlocked her secret recipes and launched Kokoyo Nyonya Delights.
The eatery, tucked in Serangoon, runs on $13,500 rent and 12-hour workdays. Ang and three friends handle operations, while grandma remains the final judge of every dish.
Her recipes, once too precious to share, now power a menu of bold, fragrant classics. Ang's dedication includes prepping rice through a 23-step process and refusing to serve leftovers.
The restaurant's name, logo, and even discounts for grandparents pay homage to the matriarch who made it all possible. For Ang, it's not just food – it's family.
Read on how Singaporean chef Ernest Ang honours his grandma's legacy here.
When engineering didn't click, Ernest Ang turned to the one thing that did – his grandmother's Peranakan cooking. After months of persuasion and kitchen shadowing, he unlocked her secret recipes and launched Kokoyo Nyonya Delights.
The eatery, tucked in Serangoon, runs on $13,500 rent and 12-hour workdays. Ang and three friends handle operations, while grandma remains the final judge of every dish.
Her recipes, once too precious to share, now power a menu of bold, fragrant classics. Ang's dedication includes prepping rice through a 23-step process and refusing to serve leftovers.
The restaurant's name, logo, and even discounts for grandparents pay homage to the matriarch who made it all possible. For Ang, it's not just food – it's family.
Read on how Singaporean chef Ernest Ang honours his grandma's legacy here.
SAF recruits to train in drone warfare and countermeasures
Singapore's Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) is rolling out drone training for all new recruits, Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing announced during a visit to Pulau Tekong on Monday (4 Aug). The move reflects the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF) push to modernise its capabilities amid rising unmanned threats.
Recruits will learn to fly drones and counter them through a phased curriculum, starting with self-directed videos, followed by simulations and field exercises. The first batch of over 3,000 recruits began training in July and will graduate in September.
Chan emphasised the need for spatial awareness in three dimensions, noting that urban warfare and drone proliferation demand more than traditional ground-based tactics. 'Soldiers must think 3D,' he said.
The SAF is also developing doctrine to evade drone detection and integrate unmanned systems into tactical operations.
Recruits will eventually operate a suite of technologies, including drones and robots, alongside conventional weapons.
Read on BMTC going high-tech with drones here.
Singapore's Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) is rolling out drone training for all new recruits, Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing announced during a visit to Pulau Tekong on Monday (4 Aug). The move reflects the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF) push to modernise its capabilities amid rising unmanned threats.
Recruits will learn to fly drones and counter them through a phased curriculum, starting with self-directed videos, followed by simulations and field exercises. The first batch of over 3,000 recruits began training in July and will graduate in September.
Chan emphasised the need for spatial awareness in three dimensions, noting that urban warfare and drone proliferation demand more than traditional ground-based tactics. 'Soldiers must think 3D,' he said.
The SAF is also developing doctrine to evade drone detection and integrate unmanned systems into tactical operations.
Recruits will eventually operate a suite of technologies, including drones and robots, alongside conventional weapons.
Read on BMTC going high-tech with drones here.
National Day weekend: ICA warns travellers expect heavy checkpoint traffic
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has issued a travel advisory ahead of the National Day weekend, warning of heavy congestion at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from 8 to 10 August. Travellers heading to Malaysia should expect longer immigration clearance times.
The advisory follows record-breaking traffic during the June school holidays, when daily crossings averaged over 525,000. On 20 June alone, 578,000 people crossed the land checkpoints, surpassing the previous high of 562,000 in December 2024.
Car travellers during peak hours faced up to three-hour waits due to tailbacks from Malaysia. ICA recommends using cross-border bus services to avoid congestion and checking traffic conditions via the MyTransport.SG app or ICA's social media channels.
Motorists are urged to use QR codes for faster clearance and refrain from queue-cutting, which could result in being turned away. ICA also reminds travellers to ensure passport validity and settle outstanding fines before departure.
With National Day falling on Saturday, the long weekend is expected to draw thousands across the Causeway.
Read on ICA's travel advisory for National Day weekend here.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has issued a travel advisory ahead of the National Day weekend, warning of heavy congestion at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from 8 to 10 August. Travellers heading to Malaysia should expect longer immigration clearance times.
The advisory follows record-breaking traffic during the June school holidays, when daily crossings averaged over 525,000. On 20 June alone, 578,000 people crossed the land checkpoints, surpassing the previous high of 562,000 in December 2024.
Car travellers during peak hours faced up to three-hour waits due to tailbacks from Malaysia. ICA recommends using cross-border bus services to avoid congestion and checking traffic conditions via the MyTransport.SG app or ICA's social media channels.
Motorists are urged to use QR codes for faster clearance and refrain from queue-cutting, which could result in being turned away. ICA also reminds travellers to ensure passport validity and settle outstanding fines before departure.
With National Day falling on Saturday, the long weekend is expected to draw thousands across the Causeway.
Read on ICA's travel advisory for National Day weekend here.