Latest news with #Liyana
Straits Times
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Red Dot United to pay $900 removal fee for election posters found within 50m of polling stations
The Elections Department will consider waiving the fee if the posters prove to have been tampered with, as Red Dot United had earlier claimed. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO Red Dot United to pay $900 removal fee for election posters found within 50m of polling stations SINGAPORE - Opposition party Red Dot United (RDU) will have to pay $900 to the Elections Department (ELD) for 18 election posters removed on Cooling-off Day. But ELD will consider waiving this fee if the posters prove to have been tampered with, as RDU had earlier claimed. On May 9, Ms Liyana Dhamirah, one of RDU's candidates for Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC, posted a video about how some of her party's posters in the constituency had been moved without their knowledge. She said the posters had been deliberately taken down and re-tied in places that would breach guidelines, so the party would be fined. Traditional election advertising material, like election posters, are not allowed within 50m of polling stations to avoid unduly influencing voters. RDU told The Straits Times on May 9 that Ms Liyana's post was 'a personal reflection of her own frustration', but added that tampering seemed likely from its preliminary checks. In her post, Ms Liyana said she spent most of Cooling-off Day taking down posters. 'When we put them up, we used black zip ties. But when I went to take them down? White zip ties held them in place. That's not a coincidence,' she added. In response to ST's queries, ELD said on May 26 that it has advised RDU to make a police report if it suspects sabotage or mischief. It is prepared to consider waiving the $50 removal fee for each poster, if police investigations find the claims to be true. RDU said it will consult its central executive committee before deciding if it will pursue the matter. ELD also said it had continued to get complaints about RDU's posters in prohibited areas between 9pm on Cooling-off Day and the early hours of Polling Day. Between Nomination Day and 9pm on Cooling-off Day, parties have three hours to remove any posters that break the rules. On Polling Day, they have one hour to do so. If such breaches are not rectified within the given time, Aetos Security Management (Aetos) will remove the materials. ELD added that the Returning Officer waived the removal fee for posters removed on Polling Day, due to heavy rain that morning. The weather would have hampered parties' ability to rectify all breaches within an hour, and posed safety concerns for those doing so, ELD said. But the fee was not waived for the 18 posters Aetos removed on Cooling-off Day, it added. ST understands that RDU's deadline for paying the $900 removal fee is May 27. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
IOL News
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Luyanda Zuma on joining the cast of season 2 of ‘Shaka iLembe'
Actress Luyanda Zuma is among the fresh faces that have joined the cast of "Shaka iLembe". Picture: Supplied Image: Supplied 'Shaka iLembe' returns for its highly anticipated second season with new additions to the cast. Actress Luyanda Zuma joins the cast as Liyana, a role that promises to shake things up and reveal a new side of the legendary Zulu king. Speaking to IOL, the vibrant young star expressed her excitement about joining the historical drama. 'I've been on a couple of other shows before this one, but I think this one is special,' she said. 'Anyone who speaks isiZulu dreams of being on 'Shaka iLembe'. I'm honoured to have a seat at this table.' Zuma's character will be introduced in the new season as King Shaka's love interest. 'She's a very strong, hot-headed individual who only stands for the truth and who she is — and she doesn't back down from that,' the actress explains. 'Her biggest idol is Queen Mkabayi, and that already tells you about the kind of woman she is.' This new romantic thread in Shaka's story adds emotional depth to a series known for its rich historical narrative. Zuma says viewers will get a rare glimpse into the human side of the warrior king. 'We get to see that it's not because he hated women, there were just certain promises he made to certain individuals,' she reflects. 'With Liyana, we see a side of him that lets a woman into his space, even if he has boundaries. If he could love his mother, what would stop him from loving someone else?' While Liyana's relationship with Shaka is central, the actress hints at deeper themes to be explored including legacy, power, and the complexities of leadership. She also acknowledges the weight of portraying such a layered narrative at a young age. 'It's a beautiful and overwhelming story to tell at the same time,' she says. 'But I'm grateful for the opportunity to help colour this man Shaka not just as a king, but as a person.' 'Shaka iLembe' debuts on Mzansi screens on June 15 on DStv channel 161.
Straits Times
09-05-2025
- Sport
- Straits Times
Jet-lagged Liyana Indah Rickit captains Meridian to three-peat in B Division Girls' football
SINGAPORE – She was not expected to feature in the B Division girls' football final on May 9, as Liyana Indah Rickit was still feeling the effects of jet lag after returning from an overseas trip the previous morning. However, the determined 15-year-old captain refused to be denied, leading Meridian Secondary School to a decisive 3-0 victory against the CBP W3 combined team at Jalan Besar Stadium, and even scored the final goal herself to seal the win. Her coach Fadio da Silva was full of praise for the dedicated captain after Meridian won their third straight National School Games (NSG) B Division title. 'She's a very important player. She came back yesterday morning from overseas. She's still jet-lagged, but she still wanted to come and play. It's not easy, so I really (have to) salute Liyana,' said the 51-year-old. 'Her leadership, her personality is very good. She's very committed.' Secondary 4 student Liyana, who scored all four goals in their 4-3 win over Queensway Secondary in the 2024 final, was glad to have the chance to mark her final outing for the school. 'I just want to win with my team. We worked very hard for this. I really am thankful that I have this opportunity to lead all my amazing teammates.' Liyana Indah Rickit (in red) played the full game despite being jet-lagged. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO An early blitz proved to be the difference in the final, with Nayli Elvira putting Meridian 2-0 up, her second goal an audacious lob over goalkeeper Claire Mok after a long pass from Liyana. 'I feel proud that I get to score early in the first half,' said Nayli, 15. 'It brings our spirits and confidence up so we can relax and control the game from there.' When asked about her finish for the second goal, she said: 'I saw the space behind the keeper so I just decided to chip (the ball) over.' Liyana Indah Rickit (left) and Nayli Elvira (right) combined for Meridian's second goal. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO Her electric pace and hard running earned acclaim from Da Silva, who described Nayli as the 'best player on the pitch'. He added: 'She's very fast and we have players that can make long passes to her. We know that she always has the opportunity to make the runs and face the goal. We did exactly that and we were able to score the goals in the first half. 'That's (our) way,' he said about his team's fast and aggressive start. 'We always try and get as (many) chances in the first half.' Liyana scored just before the half-hour mark as Meridian saw out the win, despite playing with one fewer player after one of the players was injured. 'I just tried to encourage them, to push to the end because it's our last game. If one got tired or went down then we would cover for that person,' said Liyana. For CBP W3, a combined team from Methodist Girls' School, Westwood Secondary School and Boon Lay Secondary School, luck played a role in their first appearance in an NSG final since their formation. There was nothing to separate them with Tampines Secondary School after the round-robin stage and CBP W3 won the final berth via a draw of lots. 'We thought it would not be possible. It was really a scare for us,' said captain Tessa Chang on their road to the final. 'There's always things you can't control.' Despite the defeat, she was still immensely proud of her team. 'I don't think we were just a bunch of players that were suddenly put together. We became a family and treated each other like family.' Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Daily Record
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Home Bargains' £10 'stunning' accessory is perfect for adding 'summer sunshine' to your home
Shoppers say the accessories add a touch of 'summer sunshine' to their spaces Interior design enthusiasts are embracing the cheerful spirit of spring with the latest home decor trends that bring a burst of colour and whimsy to their living spaces. This season's must-have items include enchanting hot air balloon lights and adorable garden characters, adding a touch of fun and vibrancy just in time for the warmer weather. Also creating a buzz amongst shoppers are vibrant wreaths that adorn doors with style and elegance. Earlier in the year, Home Bargains impressed its customers with an affordable £9.99 floral wreath. Now, those who missed out have another opportunity to beautify their entryways with equally attractive faux fruit wreaths, making waves this season. In a release announcing the arrival of this "stunning" new decoration, available in two distinct designs, each priced at £9.99, Home Bargains introduced The Outdoor Edit Mediterranean Orange Wreath and The Outdoor Edit Mediterranean Lemon Wreath. Whether one has a penchant for citruses or sun-kissed lemons, these wreaths promise to "add a touch of summer sunshine" to any home, as expressed by the retailer. The product description highlights the exquisite craftsmanship of the wreaths: "This stunning faux foliage creation, adorned with vibrant fruit, is perfect for indoor or outdoor use (...) Add a touch of summer sunshine to your home with our Mediterranean Wreath!", reports the Mirror. Decorated with lush faux foliage and vivid fruits, the wreaths capture the essence of the spring and summer seasons. They are recommended for styling behind doors or as a kitchen statement piece, embodying the seasonal feel with their textured charm. The Mediterranean-inspired decor has been a hit with shoppers. Blogger Liyana Lifestyle highlighted the orange wreath in a product round-up on her Instagram after a recent trip to a Home Bargains store. She also featured some of the wreaths and similar decorations available in stores in one of her popular YouTube videos. Liyana spotted "really nice" heart-shaped wreaths, with red, white, and purple options available. Sadly, not all of the heart wreaths seem to be available on Home Bargains' website at this time. However, both the orange and lemon wreaths can be bought online. Alternatively, shoppers who are keen on fruit-themed decor might prefer similar designs from different retailers. For instance, Robert Dyas sells an OHS Home Artificial Hanging Orange Wreath for £19.99. With faux oranges and orange blossom, the wreath is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Debenhams also offers an OHS Orange Wreath for £11.99, reduced from £31.99. The product description reads: "The OHS Orange Wreath brings a burst of citrus-inspired charm to your home decor. "With vibrant orange oranges paired with lush green leaves, this wreath captures the bright, fresh essence of a sunny orchard. "Perfect for welcoming guests at the front door or adding a lively touch to any room, this wreath provides a long-lasting and maintenance-free option to brighten up your space."
Daily Mirror
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Home Bargains' 'stunning' £10 accessory 'adds a touch of summer' to home
Home Bargains' latest take on one of the season's most popular design trends is sure to impress shoppers Spring is in full swing, and interior design fans are loving this season's latest home decor trends. From hot air balloon lights to garden characters, shoppers are going all out on whimsical decorations - adding a splash of colour and playfulness to their homes ahead of the warmer months. Another trend has seen shoppers going wild for wreaths, using the beautiful decorations to upgrade their doors. Earlier this year, Home Bargains wowed fans with a £9.99 floral wreath, and now shoppers who missed out can get their hands on a faux fruit wreath that's just as eye-grabbing for the season. The "stunning" new decor is available in two designs, and it's suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Priced at £9.99 each, shoppers can choose between The Outdoor Edit Mediterranean Orange Wreath and The Outdoor Edit Mediterranean Lemon Wreath. Whether you prefer oranges or lemons, customers can "add a touch of summer sunshine" to their home with the textured wreaths, according to Home Bargains. The product description explains: "This stunning faux foliage creation, adorned with vibrant fruit, is perfect for indoor or outdoor use (...) Add a touch of summer sunshine to your home with our Mediterranean Wreath! "Crafted from faux foliage with bright fruit, this wreath encapsulates the feeling of the spring & summer months. Perfect for styling on the back of doors or hanging in your kitchen, this textured wreath is the ultimate statement piece for your home." The Mediterranean-inspired decor has gone down a treat with shoppers, too. Blogger Liyana Lifestyle showcased the orange wreath in a product round-up on her Instagram after a recent visit to a Home Bargains shop. She also showcased some of the wreaths and similar decorations available in stores in one of her popular YouTube videos. Liyana spotted "really nice" heart-shaped wreaths, with red, white, and purple options available. Unfortunately, not all of the heart wreaths appear to be available on Home Bargains' website at this time. However, both the orange and lemon wreaths can be purchased online. Alternatively, shoppers with their hearts set on fruit-themed decor might prefer similar designs from different retailers. For instance, Robert Dyas sells an OHS Home Artificial Hanging Orange Wreath for £19.99. With faux oranges and orange blossom, the wreath is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Debenhams also sells an OHS Orange Wreath for £11.99, on offer from £31.99. The product description says: "The OHS Orange Wreath brings a burst of citrus-inspired charm to your home decor. "With vibrant orange oranges paired with lush green leaves, this wreath captures the bright, fresh essence of a sunny orchard. Perfect for welcoming guests at the front door or adding a lively touch to any room, this wreath provides a long-lasting and maintenance-free option to brighten up your space."
