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Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
COVID-19 cases surge as public urged to stay vigilant; Ng Eng Hen reflects on 24 years shaping nation's defence: Singapore live news
Hello to all our readers, Yahoo Singapore will be bringing you live news updates today. The editorial team will be curating the latest must-know local and international news. Singapore is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases, with over 25,900 reported in a recent week. Health authorities have stated that current variants are not more transmissible or severe than previous strains. Vaccination efforts continue, with a focus on vulnerable populations. Public health measures, including mask-wearing and good hygiene practices, are encouraged to mitigate the spread of the virus. More on MOH's response to the COVID cases uptick here. Singapore's outgoing Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen has reflected on his 24-year political career, sharing insights into Singapore's defence transformation and its approach to global diplomacy. In his farewell interview, Ng stressed the importance of realism, adaptability, and maintaining Singapore's strategic relevance amid global uncertainties. He cited efforts like the establishment of the Digital and Intelligence Service as key to preparing the SAF for modern warfare. Ng also discussed his unplanned entry into politics, the role of leadership in shaping national policy, and his belief that political service remains a meaningful avenue for public good. From cyber threats to geopolitical tensions, Ng's tenure highlighted Singapore's ability to adapt without compromising its principles. His reflections now serve as both a summary of his career and a guidepost for the next generation of leaders. More on Dr Ng's thoughts on his political journey here. Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates. Singapore is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 cases, with 14,200 infections reported in the week of 27 April to 3 May, up from 11,100 the week prior. Health authorities confirmed that while the increase is notable, the current variants – primarily LF.7 and NB.1.8, sublineages of JN.1 – do not appear to be more transmissible or severe. Hospitalisations have risen modestly, from 102 to 133, though the number of patients requiring intensive care remains low. The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) reiterated that the healthcare system is equipped to handle the uptick, noting that such periodic waves are expected as COVID-19 becomes endemic. Authorities attribute the surge to waning population immunity and continue to encourage vaccination, particularly for high-risk groups such as seniors, immunocompromised individuals, and eldercare residents. Eligible individuals are advised to receive an additional booster dose around one year after their last shot. In response, local businesses have ramped up precautionary measures. Some eateries and transport companies have increased sanitization routines, provided personal protective equipment, and adjusted staffing plans to maintain operations despite worker infections. Officials are urging the public to practice good hygiene, minimise contact when unwell, and wear masks in crowded areas. While the variants remain manageable, vigilance remains crucial. While this isn't a red-alert moment, it is a reminder: COVID-19 is still around. Read on MOH's response to the COVID cases uptick here. Outgoing Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen offered a sweeping reflection on Singapore's defence evolution, global positioning, and political leadership as he prepares to step down after 24 years in public service. Speaking to local media at the Ministry of Defence, Ng emphasised Singapore's enduring principle of realism: to 'take the world as it is – not as we wish it to be.' This pragmatic outlook, he said, has underpinned the nation's efforts to remain a trusted regional player while strengthening defence ties with major and middle powers alike. Ng, who led the Ministry of Defence since 2011, oversaw key transformations in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Most notably, he launched the Digital and Intelligence Service in 2022 to tackle growing cyber threats. These moves reflected a strategic shift in anticipating modern warfare, shaped by disinformation, drone technology, and blurred lines between peace and conflict. Reflecting on his political journey, which began unexpectedly in 2001, Ng noted that policy work requires choosing between imperfect options. 'The art of the possible takes a lifetime to learn,' he remarked, recalling mentorship from Singapore's founding leaders and lessons from ministries he served, including Education and Manpower. Looking ahead, Ng urged future leaders to stay grounded in the fundamentals – realism, resilience, and relevance. Singapore's rise, he warned, must not be taken for granted. 'The price of success is the illusion that it will always continue.' Read on Dr Ng's thoughts on his political journey here. A contractor who billed Tampines Town Council for higher-cost water pumps than what was delivered has been jailed for three weeks. The discrepancy – amounting to over $233,000 – surfaced only after a change in managing agents led to closer scrutiny of invoices. Zhang Shuyan of FYH Integrated submitted 203 inflated invoices from April 2016 to July 2017, billing for multi-stage pumps while supplying cheaper single-stage ones. Although he later repaid the full amount, prosecutors highlighted the sustained nature of the fraud and its impact on public resources. The case reveals how weak estate oversight can be exploited in municipal contracts. The original rates did not include single-stage pumps, yet no formal price adjustment was made. Zhang instead approved quoting and invoicing for the pricier components, leading to overpayment. District Judge Kenneth Chin emphasised the misuse of public funds as an aggravating factor. Zhang's decision to plead guilty and repay the money mitigated his sentence. Read on the Tampines Town Council pump scam case here. Singapore is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 cases, with 14,200 infections reported in the week of 27 April to 3 May, up from 11,100 the week prior. Health authorities confirmed that while the increase is notable, the current variants – primarily LF.7 and NB.1.8, sublineages of JN.1 – do not appear to be more transmissible or severe. Hospitalisations have risen modestly, from 102 to 133, though the number of patients requiring intensive care remains low. The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) reiterated that the healthcare system is equipped to handle the uptick, noting that such periodic waves are expected as COVID-19 becomes endemic. Authorities attribute the surge to waning population immunity and continue to encourage vaccination, particularly for high-risk groups such as seniors, immunocompromised individuals, and eldercare residents. Eligible individuals are advised to receive an additional booster dose around one year after their last shot. In response, local businesses have ramped up precautionary measures. Some eateries and transport companies have increased sanitization routines, provided personal protective equipment, and adjusted staffing plans to maintain operations despite worker infections. Officials are urging the public to practice good hygiene, minimise contact when unwell, and wear masks in crowded areas. While the variants remain manageable, vigilance remains crucial. While this isn't a red-alert moment, it is a reminder: COVID-19 is still around. Read on MOH's response to the COVID cases uptick here. Outgoing Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen offered a sweeping reflection on Singapore's defence evolution, global positioning, and political leadership as he prepares to step down after 24 years in public service. Speaking to local media at the Ministry of Defence, Ng emphasised Singapore's enduring principle of realism: to 'take the world as it is – not as we wish it to be.' This pragmatic outlook, he said, has underpinned the nation's efforts to remain a trusted regional player while strengthening defence ties with major and middle powers alike. Ng, who led the Ministry of Defence since 2011, oversaw key transformations in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Most notably, he launched the Digital and Intelligence Service in 2022 to tackle growing cyber threats. These moves reflected a strategic shift in anticipating modern warfare, shaped by disinformation, drone technology, and blurred lines between peace and conflict. Reflecting on his political journey, which began unexpectedly in 2001, Ng noted that policy work requires choosing between imperfect options. 'The art of the possible takes a lifetime to learn,' he remarked, recalling mentorship from Singapore's founding leaders and lessons from ministries he served, including Education and Manpower. Looking ahead, Ng urged future leaders to stay grounded in the fundamentals – realism, resilience, and relevance. Singapore's rise, he warned, must not be taken for granted. 'The price of success is the illusion that it will always continue.' Read on Dr Ng's thoughts on his political journey here. A contractor who billed Tampines Town Council for higher-cost water pumps than what was delivered has been jailed for three weeks. The discrepancy – amounting to over $233,000 – surfaced only after a change in managing agents led to closer scrutiny of invoices. Zhang Shuyan of FYH Integrated submitted 203 inflated invoices from April 2016 to July 2017, billing for multi-stage pumps while supplying cheaper single-stage ones. Although he later repaid the full amount, prosecutors highlighted the sustained nature of the fraud and its impact on public resources. The case reveals how weak estate oversight can be exploited in municipal contracts. The original rates did not include single-stage pumps, yet no formal price adjustment was made. Zhang instead approved quoting and invoicing for the pricier components, leading to overpayment. District Judge Kenneth Chin emphasised the misuse of public funds as an aggravating factor. Zhang's decision to plead guilty and repay the money mitigated his sentence. Read on the Tampines Town Council pump scam case here.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
COVID-19 cases surge as public urged to stay vigilant; Ng Eng Hen reflects on 24 years shaping nation's defence: Singapore live news
Hello to all our readers, Yahoo Singapore will be bringing you live news updates today. The editorial team will be curating the latest must-know local and international news. Singapore is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases, with over 25,900 reported in a recent week. Health authorities have stated that current variants are not more transmissible or severe than previous strains. Vaccination efforts continue, with a focus on vulnerable populations. Public health measures, including mask-wearing and good hygiene practices, are encouraged to mitigate the spread of the virus. More on MOH's response to the COVID cases uptick here. Singapore's outgoing Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen has reflected on his 24-year political career, sharing insights into Singapore's defence transformation and its approach to global diplomacy. In his farewell interview, Ng stressed the importance of realism, adaptability, and maintaining Singapore's strategic relevance amid global uncertainties. He cited efforts like the establishment of the Digital and Intelligence Service as key to preparing the SAF for modern warfare. Ng also discussed his unplanned entry into politics, the role of leadership in shaping national policy, and his belief that political service remains a meaningful avenue for public good. From cyber threats to geopolitical tensions, Ng's tenure highlighted Singapore's ability to adapt without compromising its principles. His reflections now serve as both a summary of his career and a guidepost for the next generation of leaders. More on Dr Ng's thoughts on his political journey here. Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates. Outgoing Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen offered a sweeping reflection on Singapore's defence evolution, global positioning, and political leadership as he prepares to step down after 24 years in public service. Speaking to local media at the Ministry of Defence, Ng emphasised Singapore's enduring principle of realism: to 'take the world as it is – not as we wish it to be.' This pragmatic outlook, he said, has underpinned the nation's efforts to remain a trusted regional player while strengthening defence ties with major and middle powers alike. Ng, who led the Ministry of Defence since 2011, oversaw key transformations in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Most notably, he launched the Digital and Intelligence Service in 2022 to tackle growing cyber threats. These moves reflected a strategic shift in anticipating modern warfare, shaped by disinformation, drone technology, and blurred lines between peace and conflict. Reflecting on his political journey, which began unexpectedly in 2001, Ng noted that policy work requires choosing between imperfect options. 'The art of the possible takes a lifetime to learn,' he remarked, recalling mentorship from Singapore's founding leaders and lessons from ministries he served, including Education and Manpower. Looking ahead, Ng urged future leaders to stay grounded in the fundamentals – realism, resilience, and relevance. Singapore's rise, he warned, must not be taken for granted. 'The price of success is the illusion that it will always continue.' Read on Dr Ng's thoughts on his political journey here. Singapore is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 cases, with 14,200 infections reported in the week of 27 April to 3 May, up from 11,100 the week prior. Health authorities confirmed that while the increase is notable, the current variants – primarily LF.7 and NB.1.8, sublineages of JN.1 – do not appear to be more transmissible or severe. Hospitalisations have risen modestly, from 102 to 133, though the number of patients requiring intensive care remains low. The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) reiterated that the healthcare system is equipped to handle the uptick, noting that such periodic waves are expected as COVID-19 becomes endemic. Authorities attribute the surge to waning population immunity and continue to encourage vaccination, particularly for high-risk groups such as seniors, immunocompromised individuals, and eldercare residents. Eligible individuals are advised to receive an additional booster dose around one year after their last shot. In response, local businesses have ramped up precautionary measures. Some eateries and transport companies have increased sanitization routines, provided personal protective equipment, and adjusted staffing plans to maintain operations despite worker infections. Officials are urging the public to practice good hygiene, minimise contact when unwell, and wear masks in crowded areas. While the variants remain manageable, vigilance remains crucial. While this isn't a red-alert moment, it is a reminder: COVID-19 is still around. Read on MOH's response to the COVID cases uptick here. Outgoing Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen offered a sweeping reflection on Singapore's defence evolution, global positioning, and political leadership as he prepares to step down after 24 years in public service. Speaking to local media at the Ministry of Defence, Ng emphasised Singapore's enduring principle of realism: to 'take the world as it is – not as we wish it to be.' This pragmatic outlook, he said, has underpinned the nation's efforts to remain a trusted regional player while strengthening defence ties with major and middle powers alike. Ng, who led the Ministry of Defence since 2011, oversaw key transformations in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Most notably, he launched the Digital and Intelligence Service in 2022 to tackle growing cyber threats. These moves reflected a strategic shift in anticipating modern warfare, shaped by disinformation, drone technology, and blurred lines between peace and conflict. Reflecting on his political journey, which began unexpectedly in 2001, Ng noted that policy work requires choosing between imperfect options. 'The art of the possible takes a lifetime to learn,' he remarked, recalling mentorship from Singapore's founding leaders and lessons from ministries he served, including Education and Manpower. Looking ahead, Ng urged future leaders to stay grounded in the fundamentals – realism, resilience, and relevance. Singapore's rise, he warned, must not be taken for granted. 'The price of success is the illusion that it will always continue.' Read on Dr Ng's thoughts on his political journey here. Singapore is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 cases, with 14,200 infections reported in the week of 27 April to 3 May, up from 11,100 the week prior. Health authorities confirmed that while the increase is notable, the current variants – primarily LF.7 and NB.1.8, sublineages of JN.1 – do not appear to be more transmissible or severe. Hospitalisations have risen modestly, from 102 to 133, though the number of patients requiring intensive care remains low. The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) reiterated that the healthcare system is equipped to handle the uptick, noting that such periodic waves are expected as COVID-19 becomes endemic. Authorities attribute the surge to waning population immunity and continue to encourage vaccination, particularly for high-risk groups such as seniors, immunocompromised individuals, and eldercare residents. Eligible individuals are advised to receive an additional booster dose around one year after their last shot. In response, local businesses have ramped up precautionary measures. Some eateries and transport companies have increased sanitization routines, provided personal protective equipment, and adjusted staffing plans to maintain operations despite worker infections. Officials are urging the public to practice good hygiene, minimise contact when unwell, and wear masks in crowded areas. While the variants remain manageable, vigilance remains crucial. While this isn't a red-alert moment, it is a reminder: COVID-19 is still around. Read on MOH's response to the COVID cases uptick here.
