Latest news with #MaximilianMaeder
Straits Times
4 days ago
- Sport
- Straits Times
Maximilian Maeder and Zeanne Law gunning for rare double at Singapore Sports Awards
Kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder and wushu exponent Zeanne Law are among the finalists for the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year gongs. PHOTOS: ST FILE, CHEAH CHENG POH SINGAPORE – A year after winning the Sportsboy and Sportsgirl of the Year awards, kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder and wushu exponent Zeanne Law are taking a step up to the big leagues for the 2025 Singapore Sports Awards. The nominees for the annual awards were announced by the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) on June 2, and the teenage duo are among the finalists for the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year gongs. Both athletes have a chance to score back-to-back junior and senior accolades – a feat not seen in the last two decades. Swimmer Mark Chay was the last male athlete to be crowned the 2001 Sportsboy of the Year and 2002 Sportsman of the Year, while sailor Joan Huang claimed the 1998 Sportsgirl of the Year and 1999 Sportswoman of the Year awards. Maeder told The Straits Times: 'I'm very happy that my achievements are being affirmed and people are not bored of me yet. 'But more seriously and importantly, it's great that there is an event like this to recognise and celebrate the success and hard work of those who are involved in Singapore sports, and I'm thankful and honoured that I get to be part of this exercise.' Winner of the Sportsboy of the Year award for three consecutive years, the 18-year-old and had an outstanding 2024 season in which he won nine out of 10 events to retain his world title, claim the Asian Championship, and a bronze at the Paris Oympics. He will face stiff competition from silat world champion Sheik Farhan Sheik Alau'ddin, Reyes Cup and International 9-Ball Open champion Aloysius Yapp, Olympic badminton quarter-finalist and Madrid Spain Masters winner Loh Kean Yew, and Taolu World Cup silver medallist Jowen Lim. Law said she had a 'transformative' year after winning the 2024 Sportsgirl of the Year accolade, noting that she became a more mature and experienced athlete. In 2024, Law won gold in the women's taijiquan and optional taijishan events at the World Taijiquan Championships in Singapore, in addition to a women's optional taijiquan gold at the Asian Wushu Championships. The 19-year-old added: 'It helped me gain more opportunities to introduce wushu to the general public and also encourage more youths to pursue this sport. 'I was glad that I could perform well for the subsequent competitions, demonstrating consistency despite having more pressure now as a Spex scholar and Sportsgirl of the Year.' Pointing out that the nomination reminds her of the support from the wushu federation and High Performance Sport Institute, Law said she was 'thankful for it and just being nominated is already a blessing for me'. The other nominees for the accolade are: Asian Tenpin Championships women's singles winner Daphne Tan, kickboxing World Cup triple-gold medallist Valencia Yip, World Pencak Silat Championships bronze medallist Nurdianna Sidek, Olympic pistol shooter Teh Xiu Hong, and swimmer Gan Ching Hwee, who set national records in the 800m and 1,500m freestyle at Paris 2024. The main awards selection committee was chaired by SNOC president Grace Fu, while vice-president Jessie Phua headed the selection committee for the Sportsboy and Sportsgirl awards. National sports associations submitted candidates for the main award categories based on a set of eligibility criteria, including their achievements for the year. The selection committees then decided on the finalists and cast their votes via a secret ballot to determine the winners. Independent auditing firm KPMG will then tabulate the results for the June 20 announcement. Twelve awards will be presented at the ceremony on June 20 at Swissotel The Stamford. Meritorious awards will also be presented to individual and team performances in the senior and junior categories. The Straits Times has three finalists for the Most Inspiring Sports Story of the Year award, with the other two nominees from Lianhe Zaobao and Mothership. Singapore Sports Awards organising committee chairman Lau Kok Keng said: 'The year 2025 marks a bold new chapter in Singapore sport – a time when we continue shaping new horizons through the passion, resilience, dedication and efforts of Team Singapore. 'From regional championships to the Olympic Games, our athletes have inspired us with their outstanding performances. 'As we celebrate their achievements, we also recognise the many individuals – coaches, teams, media professionals, and organisers – whose contributions have in one way or other injected our sporting landscape with fresh energy and vision.' David Lee is senior sports correspondent at The Straits Times focusing on aquatics, badminton, basketball, cue sports, football and table tennis. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Yahoo
Max Maeder defends European kitefoiling crown; Amos Yee's parole breach extends US prison stay: Singapore live news
And that's a wrap. Thanks for tuning in. We'll catch y'all again next week. 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. In a thrilling finale at the Formula Kite European Championships in Urla, Turkey, Singapore's Maximilian Maeder defended his title with two decisive race wins on Monday (19 May). Facing formidable opponents like Italy's Riccardo Pianosi, Maeder's tactical acumen and calm under pressure propelled him to the top of the podium. This victory underscores his dominance in the sport and sets the stage for future international competitions. Amos Yee, a 26-year-old Singaporean, is back in the headlines as his US parole is delayed to November 2025 after a violation. Convicted of grooming a teenage girl and possessing child pornography, Yee was re-arrested just a month after his early release in October 2023. Now housed in Danville Correctional Centre, he faces potential lifelong monitoring. His controversial past, from Singapore jail time to US asylum, keeps him under scrutiny. Listed on the sex offender registry, Yee's actions remain public. More on Amos Yee's unfolding legal drama here. Lev Panfilov, a Singapore TikToker and former Wah!Banana actor, was sentenced to 11½ years in jail and 12 strokes of the cane for raping a woman he met on Tinder. The assault occurred in 2021 after a scriptwriting meet up turned violent in his bedroom. The victim, an aspiring comedy writer, endured a gruelling 13-day cross-examination during the trial. Panfilov's attempt to flee Singapore mid-trial fuelled the prosecution's case against his lack of remorse. Justice Pang Khang Chau praised the victim's convincing testimony while dismissing Panfilov's inconsistent defence. The case ignited public outrage, particularly over victim-shaming comments from a former Law Society official. Panfilov plans to appeal his conviction and sentence. Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates. Singapore's kitefoiling champion, Maximilian Maeder, successfully retained his Formula Kite European Championships title in Urla, Turkey, on Monday (19 May). The 18-year-old athlete clinched victory by winning two consecutive races in the medal series, overcoming early challenges and fierce competition. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Int. Kiteboarding Association (@kiteclasses) Maeder's journey to the top was marked by resilience and strategic brilliance. Despite facing equipment issues and intense pressure, he maintained focus and executed flawless performances in the final races. His ability to stay composed under duress was instrumental in securing the championship. The victory adds to Maeder's impressive list of achievements, including a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics and multiple international titles. His consistent excellence in the sport has solidified his reputation as a leading figure in kitefoiling. Looking ahead, Maeder's sights are set on upcoming competitions, where he aims to continue his winning streak and further elevate Singapore's presence in the global sailing community. Lev Panfilov, a 29-year-old TikToker and former Wah!Banana actor, received 11½ years in jail and 12 strokes of the cane on Monday (19 May), for raping a woman he met on Tinder. The assault unfolded in his bedroom on 12 January 2021, after a scriptwriting session went horribly wrong. The victim, a 30-year-old aspiring comedy writer, bravely testified, earning praise from Justice Pang Khang Chau as an 'unusually convincing' witness. Panfilov's defence crumbled under inconsistencies, with the judge dismissing his claim of consensual sex. The prosecution slammed his lack of remorse, citing a 13-day cross-examination ordeal for the victim and a sneaky attempt to flee Singapore mid-trial using a new Russian passport. The high-profile case stirred public outrage, especially after victim-shaming comments from a former Law Society vice-president drew sharp criticism. Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam condemned such remarks, emphasising zero tolerance for misogyny. Panfilov, now in custody, plans to appeal. The victim's ordeal began at a Robertson Quay restaurant, where she and Panfilov worked on her comedy script before heading to his flat. There, a discussion about comedians turned into a nightmare assault, leaving her in physical and emotional pain. Amos Yee, the Singaporean convicted of child sex offenses, will stay locked up until November 2025 after breaking parole rules. The 26-year-old, once a teenage blogger, was re-arrested just a month after his early release in October 2023. The Illinois Department of Corrections cites a parole violation, with Yee now facing up to lifelong supervision. Yee's troubles trace back to 2019, when he groomed a 14-year-old girl online, leading to a six-year sentence in 2021. After fleeing Singapore in 2016 to avoid national service, he gained US asylum but couldn't stay out of trouble. His brief parole stint ended with a return to Danville Correctional Centre, a medium-security prison. Details of Yee's parole violation remain under wraps, but the consequences are clear: another six months behind bars. His discharge date, when parole could end, ranges from three years to life. As a registered sex offender, Yee's details are public, keeping his case in the headlines. Yee's history includes jail time in Singapore for controversial remarks. His US legal battles, however, are far graver, involving grooming and child pornography charges. The ongoing scrutiny of his actions suggests a long road ahead. Read on what led to Amos Yee's latest setback here. The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is bigger than politics, says Malaysia's Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli. He assured investors the initiative will outlive administrations – even his own. Speaking to business delegates in Kuala Lumpur, Rafizi said momentum must not be lost to elections or reshuffles. 'The last thing we need is for all the excitement to go to waste,' he noted. His comments follow rising speculation over his future in Cabinet as he contests for his party's deputy presidency. Despite that, he stressed JS-SEZ remains a long-term national priority. Backed by six major banks and RM2.35 billion (S$708 million) in early interest, the zone is off to a promising start. It spans 3,571 sq km and targets 11 economic sectors. Rafizi also teased a forthcoming blueprint – a comprehensive roadmap meant to guide investors and policymakers for years to come. Read on why Rafizi says JS-SEZ will outlast politics here. Malaysian-born comedian Ronny Chieng is officially an American citizen – and he's got jokes. Comparing the move to joining the 'evil empire', Chieng poked fun at his timing and motivation in a recent Variety Awards Circuit podcast appearance. Chieng, a correspondent for "The Daily Show", said becoming a US citizen in 2024 was a pragmatic choice, not a political endorsement. 'It just so happened the evil empire had great TV and stand-up comedy,' he quipped, likening America to the Death Star. The funnyman emphasised that his decision stemmed from a long-term plan to build a career in US comedy. 'I've been trying to come back here since I was seven,' he said. 'This has been 30 years in the making.' Chieng also took aim at the American political climate, describing Donald Trump's presence in US life as an ongoing 'car wreck.' Having joined "The Daily Show" in 2015, Chieng says 'Trump chaos' has defined his entire tenure. Now a Netflix headliner with a hit special and another in the works, Chieng's take on America is part satire, part hard truth – and entirely on brand. 'If you want to be in the Death Star,' he said, 'you might as well grab a mic.' Read on why Chieng became an American here. Who's paying Elon Musk for a blue check these days? According to the Tech Transparency Project (TTP), over 200 X users linked to US-designated terrorist groups. The report details how accounts tied to Al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, and others are paying for premium X services – gaining access to extended posts, monetisation tools, and wider distribution. That includes users under US sanctions enforced by the Treasury Department. Yet some of these accounts are ID-verified by X, giving them even more legitimacy. X says its policies bar such users, but enforcement appears patchy at best. Many of the same accounts were banned after a similar 2024 expose – yet they've resurfaced. TTP's findings now reignite calls for accountability. If satire accounts can be banned in seconds, why can sanctioned terrorists buy a megaphone? Read on how Musk's X is letting extremists buy influence here. After the horrific deaths of two beloved community cats, Shere Khan and King Kong, Singaporeans are mad – and not just online. A recent Yahoo Singapore poll poll, as of this writing, found that nearly 691 respondents (94%) believe our animal cruelty laws are too weak. Only around 22 people (3%) believe Singapore doesn't need stricter animal cruelty laws, while 15 individuals (2%) say they have another opinion on the matter. With over 900 cruelty cases logged in 2024, people are losing patience. The killers of pets often walk away with a slap on the wrist – and voters want that to change. Even ministers are weighing in. Current laws allow a maximum jail term of 18 months and a $15,000 fine – but most abusers receive less. Citizens are calling for change, and Parliament may soon have no choice but to listen. Singaporean authorities confirmed they've blocked all poultry imports from Brazil's bird flu-hit zones. The deadly strain – capable of wiping out flocks in days – was detected in Brazil's largest chicken-producing region. Singapore's long-held policy of diversifying food imports is paying off, avoiding over-reliance on any single source. With over 30 poultry import partners, the nation is agile in navigating sudden disruptions like this one. The move protects both supply chains and public health, even as other nations scramble to catch up. Read on Singapore assuring the public amid Brazil's bird flu outbreak here. Lady Gaga's Singapore concert turned into a full-circle fantasy for drag performer Lady Gagita, who scored a viral selfie with her idol mid-show. During the pop diva's 18 May gig at the National Stadium – the first of four nights – Gaga stunned 47,000 fans with a high-drama, opera-style set before spotting a familiar face in the VIP pit. That face? Lady Gagita, dressed in a red 'Mayhem'-inspired gown, who's been impersonating Gaga for over a decade. The 31-year-old winner of "Drag Den Philippines" had front-row seats – and destiny. Gaga paused her performance, walked toward her, and posed for a selfie, much to the crowd's roaring delight. The concert itself was peak Gaga: five acts, 22 songs, countless costumes. She kicked things off in a towering Tudor-style gown and closed with fan-favourite bangers like "Alejandro", during which she unfurled the Singapore flag over her stage set. Fans called the night 'intimate, electric, and unforgettable.' Gaga also walked down to the floor to meet fans, accept flowers, and sign autographs. One concertgoer said, 'Even from afar, we felt close to her.' Her heartfelt shoutout to Singapore – 'You're so special to me' – sealed the emotional energy of the night. Lady Gagita's emotional post summed it up best: 'Waited 15 years and now destiny happened. You've changed my life forever.' Just one night in, Gaga's Singapore stop is already legendary. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lady Gagita (@ladygagitaofficial) A 20-year-old Singaporean, Malone Lam, has been charged in the United States with orchestrating a US$263 million cryptocurrency crime ring that laundered stolen digital assets using stuffed toys and luxury spending. Lam, who pleaded not guilty in a Washington DC court, allegedly stole US$230 million from a single victim – using the proceeds on supercars, nightclubs, and multimillion-dollar homes. Lam and co-conspirator Conor Flansburg allegedly led a 13-member crew that targeted crypto wallets, converting stolen digital assets into US dollars. The funds were then shipped across the country – hidden inside plush 'Squishmallow' toys. Authorities say the group formed their alliance through online gaming. The indictment reveals shocking levels of extravagance: Lam reportedly spent half a million dollars per night at clubs and bought at least 28 luxury vehicles, some worth over US$3 million. Prosecutors also allege the gang committed home burglaries to steal hardware wallets from victims. Despite being arrested in September, Lam is said to have continued running the syndicate from jail, sending instructions and receiving gifts via associates. His girlfriend in Miami reportedly received designer bags bought with stolen funds. If convicted, Lam faces over 20 years behind bars under the RICO Act and could be fined up to $250,000 or twice the amount of his alleged illegal earnings. His trial is set for October. Singapore is bracing for a major political shift as Prime Minister Lawrence Wong prepares to unveil a sweeping Cabinet reshuffle, marking the rise of the 4G leadership. With veterans like Heng Swee Keat, Teo Chee Hean, and Ng Eng Hen stepping down, heavyweight portfolios such as defence and economic policy are up for grabs. The reshuffle of key ministries is expected to see the rise of fourth-generation (4G) leaders, a second deputy prime minister, alongside Gan Kim Yong, and the inclusion of fresh faces from both the public and private sectors. Likely candidates for promotion include Chan Chun Sing and Desmond Lee, both tipped for higher responsibilities amid high-profile retirements. Political watchers believe this transition comes at a pivotal time, following the People's Action Party's (PAP) strong 2025 election showing. With a firm mandate of 65.57 per cent in the latest general election, Wong has the political capital to reshape his team for a new era. Younger MPs and more women are anticipated to enter junior political office, continuing a trend toward greater diversity. With key positions in flux, all eyes are on who will step up to shape Singapore's next chapter. Read on PM Wong's upcoming Cabinet revamp here. Singapore's kitefoiling champion, Maximilian Maeder, successfully retained his Formula Kite European Championships title in Urla, Turkey, on Monday (19 May). The 18-year-old athlete clinched victory by winning two consecutive races in the medal series, overcoming early challenges and fierce competition. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Int. Kiteboarding Association (@kiteclasses) Maeder's journey to the top was marked by resilience and strategic brilliance. Despite facing equipment issues and intense pressure, he maintained focus and executed flawless performances in the final races. His ability to stay composed under duress was instrumental in securing the championship. The victory adds to Maeder's impressive list of achievements, including a bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics and multiple international titles. His consistent excellence in the sport has solidified his reputation as a leading figure in kitefoiling. Looking ahead, Maeder's sights are set on upcoming competitions, where he aims to continue his winning streak and further elevate Singapore's presence in the global sailing community. Lev Panfilov, a 29-year-old TikToker and former Wah!Banana actor, received 11½ years in jail and 12 strokes of the cane on Monday (19 May), for raping a woman he met on Tinder. The assault unfolded in his bedroom on 12 January 2021, after a scriptwriting session went horribly wrong. The victim, a 30-year-old aspiring comedy writer, bravely testified, earning praise from Justice Pang Khang Chau as an 'unusually convincing' witness. Panfilov's defence crumbled under inconsistencies, with the judge dismissing his claim of consensual sex. The prosecution slammed his lack of remorse, citing a 13-day cross-examination ordeal for the victim and a sneaky attempt to flee Singapore mid-trial using a new Russian passport. The high-profile case stirred public outrage, especially after victim-shaming comments from a former Law Society vice-president drew sharp criticism. Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam condemned such remarks, emphasising zero tolerance for misogyny. Panfilov, now in custody, plans to appeal. The victim's ordeal began at a Robertson Quay restaurant, where she and Panfilov worked on her comedy script before heading to his flat. There, a discussion about comedians turned into a nightmare assault, leaving her in physical and emotional pain. Amos Yee, the Singaporean convicted of child sex offenses, will stay locked up until November 2025 after breaking parole rules. The 26-year-old, once a teenage blogger, was re-arrested just a month after his early release in October 2023. The Illinois Department of Corrections cites a parole violation, with Yee now facing up to lifelong supervision. Yee's troubles trace back to 2019, when he groomed a 14-year-old girl online, leading to a six-year sentence in 2021. After fleeing Singapore in 2016 to avoid national service, he gained US asylum but couldn't stay out of trouble. His brief parole stint ended with a return to Danville Correctional Centre, a medium-security prison. Details of Yee's parole violation remain under wraps, but the consequences are clear: another six months behind bars. His discharge date, when parole could end, ranges from three years to life. As a registered sex offender, Yee's details are public, keeping his case in the headlines. Yee's history includes jail time in Singapore for controversial remarks. His US legal battles, however, are far graver, involving grooming and child pornography charges. The ongoing scrutiny of his actions suggests a long road ahead. Read on what led to Amos Yee's latest setback here. The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is bigger than politics, says Malaysia's Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli. He assured investors the initiative will outlive administrations – even his own. Speaking to business delegates in Kuala Lumpur, Rafizi said momentum must not be lost to elections or reshuffles. 'The last thing we need is for all the excitement to go to waste,' he noted. His comments follow rising speculation over his future in Cabinet as he contests for his party's deputy presidency. Despite that, he stressed JS-SEZ remains a long-term national priority. Backed by six major banks and RM2.35 billion (S$708 million) in early interest, the zone is off to a promising start. It spans 3,571 sq km and targets 11 economic sectors. Rafizi also teased a forthcoming blueprint – a comprehensive roadmap meant to guide investors and policymakers for years to come. Read on why Rafizi says JS-SEZ will outlast politics here. Malaysian-born comedian Ronny Chieng is officially an American citizen – and he's got jokes. Comparing the move to joining the 'evil empire', Chieng poked fun at his timing and motivation in a recent Variety Awards Circuit podcast appearance. Chieng, a correspondent for "The Daily Show", said becoming a US citizen in 2024 was a pragmatic choice, not a political endorsement. 'It just so happened the evil empire had great TV and stand-up comedy,' he quipped, likening America to the Death Star. The funnyman emphasised that his decision stemmed from a long-term plan to build a career in US comedy. 'I've been trying to come back here since I was seven,' he said. 'This has been 30 years in the making.' Chieng also took aim at the American political climate, describing Donald Trump's presence in US life as an ongoing 'car wreck.' Having joined "The Daily Show" in 2015, Chieng says 'Trump chaos' has defined his entire tenure. Now a Netflix headliner with a hit special and another in the works, Chieng's take on America is part satire, part hard truth – and entirely on brand. 'If you want to be in the Death Star,' he said, 'you might as well grab a mic.' Read on why Chieng became an American here. Who's paying Elon Musk for a blue check these days? According to the Tech Transparency Project (TTP), over 200 X users linked to US-designated terrorist groups. The report details how accounts tied to Al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, and others are paying for premium X services – gaining access to extended posts, monetisation tools, and wider distribution. That includes users under US sanctions enforced by the Treasury Department. Yet some of these accounts are ID-verified by X, giving them even more legitimacy. X says its policies bar such users, but enforcement appears patchy at best. Many of the same accounts were banned after a similar 2024 expose – yet they've resurfaced. TTP's findings now reignite calls for accountability. If satire accounts can be banned in seconds, why can sanctioned terrorists buy a megaphone? Read on how Musk's X is letting extremists buy influence here. After the horrific deaths of two beloved community cats, Shere Khan and King Kong, Singaporeans are mad – and not just online. A recent Yahoo Singapore poll poll, as of this writing, found that nearly 691 respondents (94%) believe our animal cruelty laws are too weak. Only around 22 people (3%) believe Singapore doesn't need stricter animal cruelty laws, while 15 individuals (2%) say they have another opinion on the matter. With over 900 cruelty cases logged in 2024, people are losing patience. The killers of pets often walk away with a slap on the wrist – and voters want that to change. Even ministers are weighing in. Current laws allow a maximum jail term of 18 months and a $15,000 fine – but most abusers receive less. Citizens are calling for change, and Parliament may soon have no choice but to listen. Singaporean authorities confirmed they've blocked all poultry imports from Brazil's bird flu-hit zones. The deadly strain – capable of wiping out flocks in days – was detected in Brazil's largest chicken-producing region. Singapore's long-held policy of diversifying food imports is paying off, avoiding over-reliance on any single source. With over 30 poultry import partners, the nation is agile in navigating sudden disruptions like this one. The move protects both supply chains and public health, even as other nations scramble to catch up. Read on Singapore assuring the public amid Brazil's bird flu outbreak here. Lady Gaga's Singapore concert turned into a full-circle fantasy for drag performer Lady Gagita, who scored a viral selfie with her idol mid-show. During the pop diva's 18 May gig at the National Stadium – the first of four nights – Gaga stunned 47,000 fans with a high-drama, opera-style set before spotting a familiar face in the VIP pit. That face? Lady Gagita, dressed in a red 'Mayhem'-inspired gown, who's been impersonating Gaga for over a decade. The 31-year-old winner of "Drag Den Philippines" had front-row seats – and destiny. Gaga paused her performance, walked toward her, and posed for a selfie, much to the crowd's roaring delight. The concert itself was peak Gaga: five acts, 22 songs, countless costumes. She kicked things off in a towering Tudor-style gown and closed with fan-favourite bangers like "Alejandro", during which she unfurled the Singapore flag over her stage set. Fans called the night 'intimate, electric, and unforgettable.' Gaga also walked down to the floor to meet fans, accept flowers, and sign autographs. One concertgoer said, 'Even from afar, we felt close to her.' Her heartfelt shoutout to Singapore – 'You're so special to me' – sealed the emotional energy of the night. Lady Gagita's emotional post summed it up best: 'Waited 15 years and now destiny happened. You've changed my life forever.' Just one night in, Gaga's Singapore stop is already legendary. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lady Gagita (@ladygagitaofficial) A 20-year-old Singaporean, Malone Lam, has been charged in the United States with orchestrating a US$263 million cryptocurrency crime ring that laundered stolen digital assets using stuffed toys and luxury spending. Lam, who pleaded not guilty in a Washington DC court, allegedly stole US$230 million from a single victim – using the proceeds on supercars, nightclubs, and multimillion-dollar homes. Lam and co-conspirator Conor Flansburg allegedly led a 13-member crew that targeted crypto wallets, converting stolen digital assets into US dollars. The funds were then shipped across the country – hidden inside plush 'Squishmallow' toys. Authorities say the group formed their alliance through online gaming. The indictment reveals shocking levels of extravagance: Lam reportedly spent half a million dollars per night at clubs and bought at least 28 luxury vehicles, some worth over US$3 million. Prosecutors also allege the gang committed home burglaries to steal hardware wallets from victims. Despite being arrested in September, Lam is said to have continued running the syndicate from jail, sending instructions and receiving gifts via associates. His girlfriend in Miami reportedly received designer bags bought with stolen funds. If convicted, Lam faces over 20 years behind bars under the RICO Act and could be fined up to $250,000 or twice the amount of his alleged illegal earnings. His trial is set for October. Singapore is bracing for a major political shift as Prime Minister Lawrence Wong prepares to unveil a sweeping Cabinet reshuffle, marking the rise of the 4G leadership. With veterans like Heng Swee Keat, Teo Chee Hean, and Ng Eng Hen stepping down, heavyweight portfolios such as defence and economic policy are up for grabs. The reshuffle of key ministries is expected to see the rise of fourth-generation (4G) leaders, a second deputy prime minister, alongside Gan Kim Yong, and the inclusion of fresh faces from both the public and private sectors. Likely candidates for promotion include Chan Chun Sing and Desmond Lee, both tipped for higher responsibilities amid high-profile retirements. Political watchers believe this transition comes at a pivotal time, following the People's Action Party's (PAP) strong 2025 election showing. With a firm mandate of 65.57 per cent in the latest general election, Wong has the political capital to reshape his team for a new era. Younger MPs and more women are anticipated to enter junior political office, continuing a trend toward greater diversity. With key positions in flux, all eyes are on who will step up to shape Singapore's next chapter. Read on PM Wong's upcoming Cabinet revamp here.
Independent Singapore
20-05-2025
- Sport
- Independent Singapore
Max Maeder wins European Open for the 2nd year in a row
SINGAPORE: Maximilian Maeder, Singapore's youngest Olympic medallist to date, emerged triumphant on Monday (May 19), winning the 2025 Formula Kite European Championships in Urla, Turkey. Winning the event did come easily for the 18-year-old Maeder, who crashed in the opening series. Moreover, he touched kites with Italy's Riccardo Pianosi in the first round of the grand final. After officials reviewed clips of the incident, Pianosi was penalised, resulting in a win for Maeder in that round. The Singaporean then went on to win the following race, which clinched the championship for him. Pianosi was declared European Champion, with Switzerland's Gian Andrea Stragiotti and Greece's Cameron Maramenides crowned European silver and bronze medalists, respectively. 'Max had an amazing race, he sailed clear, especially in that first race, and I'm happy for him,' Pianosi said after the race. Maeder, meanwhile, was equally generous and praised his competitors: 'It's a really great experience to have outstanding competitors. I was pushed to my limits by the people around me, Riccardo especially. They bring out the best in me,' he said. The victory must have been especially meaningful for Maeder after a recent shoulder injury. According to a May 19 post from DBS, for which Maeder is a brand ambassador, the athlete sustained a partial shoulder dislocation just a few weeks ago. 'Today, he stands victorious on the podium,' DBS noted, adding, 'His resilience wasn't just about getting back in the game—but pushing past limits, trusting the process, and showing up stronger than before.' On its Facebook and Instagram pages, DBS shared a video of Maeder's journey through his recovery. View this post on Instagram A post shared by DBS Bank (@dbsbank) Last year, the athlete gave Singapore a gift on National Day in the form of a bronze medal from the Paris Olympics for the Men's Formula Kite event. Since that historic win, he has only gone from strength to strength. In September, the Singaporean kitesurfer emerged as champion after winning 11 out of 12 races at the Austrian leg of the IKA KiteFoil World Series at Lake Traunsee. Later that month, he took home his next gold at the 2024 Formula Kite Asian Championships in Daishan, China. In October, Maeder made it a three-peat, winning the overall title at the World Series on the final day at Kitefoil World Series Sardinia, in Italy . Maeder, the oldest of three brothers, started kiteboarding at six and took up kitefoiling when he was just 10 years old. In 2018, he won his first competitive tournament in the Formula Kite Asian Championships. His mother, Hwee Keng, 52, is Singaporean, while his father, Valentin, 60, is from Switzerland. They both work at Wakatobi Dive Resort on the island of Sulawesi, which is part of Indonesia. The two helped build the resort. /TISG Read also: Max Maeder to serve curry puffs as promised after winning the Young World Sailor of the Year award
CNA
19-05-2025
- Sport
- CNA
Singapore star kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder wins European Championships, retains title
SINGAPORE: Singapore star kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder successfully defended his Formula Kite European Championships title on Monday (May 19) after holding his nerve to snatch victory on the final day of racing. The 18-year-old pipped Italy's Ricardo Pianosi, winning the first two races in the medal series to take the crown. In the opening series, Pianosi topped the fleet with 18 nett points, landing him one match point and automatic qualification to the medal series. 18-year-old Maeder scored 40 nett points and placed second, which meant that he too qualified automatically. Going into the final day of racing in Urla, Türkiye, Pianosi needed just one more match point in the four-man final to take the title. However, it was the Singaporean who kept his nerve and sealed the victory after two straight race wins. Pianosi took silver and Switzerland's Gian Andrea Stragiotti the bronze. Maeder started the year by retaining his title at Trofeo Princesa Sofia Regatta in Palma, Mallorca, last month. He finished ahead of Pianosi and Austria's Valentin Bontus. The Singaporean then took silver at the French Olympic Week event in Hyeres, France, in late April behind Pianosi. The world's top-ranked kitefoiler had a sensational run of form in 2024. In August last year, he ended Singapore's eight-year wait for an Olympic podium finish since swimmer Joseph Schooling won gold in 2016. Maeder, then 17, also became Singapore's youngest Olympic medallist. He then went on to win four consecutive titles after his bronze showing in France, taking the Austrian leg of the KiteFoil World Series, the 2024 Formula Kite Asian Championships in Daishan, China, the Italian leg of the Kitefoil World Series and the Formula Youth European Championships in October. Maeder's compatriot Ryan Lo notched a significant milestone at the ILCA 7 Men's World Championships in Qingdao, China, over the weekend.
AsiaOne
02-05-2025
- Sport
- AsiaOne
60 times Singapore made the world take notice, Lifestyle News
Every so often, Singapore pops up on the global stage. These moments remind us that our Little Red Dot isn't just a blip on the map, but a force to be reckoned with. Whether it's flying the flag in unexpected arenas, helping other nations in need, or breaking new ground, Singapore continues to punch above its weight. Truth is, we have achieved so much across so many fields that it's impossible to list all our triumphs, but to celebrate Singapore's 60th birthday this year, we've rounded up 60 feats that show just how far Singapore and Singaporeans have come. Sports and athletics 1. Maximilian Maeder won the bronze medal in kitefoiling at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. He was only 17 years old, becoming Singapore's youngest Olympic medalist. [embed] 2. Yip Pin Xiu secured double golds in the 50m and 100m backstroke S2 at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, achieving this feat at three consecutive Games. [embed] 3. Jeralyn Tan clinched Singapore's first-ever boccia medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics with a silver in the women's individual BC1 event. [embed] 4. Farhanna Farid set her ninth deadlift world record in two years with a 209kg lift at the World Open Classic Powerlifting Championships in Jun 2024. [embed] 5. Darren Ong Wei Siong won the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Viper Championship in Mar 2025, becoming the first Singaporean to win a PBA Tour event. [embed] 6. Veronica Shanti Pereira won gold in the 200m sprint at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou (which was held on Sep 2023), and the 100m and 200m sprint at the 2023 Asian Championships in Bangkok. She also holds the 200m SEA Games record (22.69s) and the 200m Asian Championships games record (22.70s). [embed][embed] 7. Zeanne Law Zhi Ning was named the 2023 International Wushu Federation Wushu Taolu Rising Star of the Year. This was thanks to her gold medal win in Women's Taijiquan during her debut at the World Wushu Championships 2023 and securing the silver medal in the Women's Duilian event with teammates Kimberly Ong Li Ling and Zoe Tan Zi Yi. [embed] 8. Stephenie Chen qualified for the Paris Olympics in canoe sprint by finishing 3rd in the Women K1 500m event at the ACC Canoe Sprint Asian Championship in Apr 2024, marking Singapore's return to the sport since 2012. [embed] 9. Caroline Chew secured a spot in dressage at the Paris Olympics, continuing her trailblazing journey in equestrian sports after making history as the first Singaporean to compete in dressage at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. [embed] 10. Amita Berthier and Kiria Tikanah qualified for the Paris Olympics in fencing, representing Singapore in foil and epee respectively. [embed] 11. Shannon Tan earned a place in golf at the Paris Olympics, showcasing Singapore's growing presence in the sport. She secured a win on the Ladies European Tour at the Magical Kenya Ladies Open in Feb 2024. [embed] 12. Saiyidah Aisyah qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics in rowing, continuing her legacy as Singapore's pioneering rower following her debut showing at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. 13. Ryan Lo is the reigning sailing champion of the ILCA 7 class at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. He competed in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and 2024 Paris Olympics. [embed] 14. Kabir Anurag became the first Singaporean to join Alpine's Formula One academy in Apr 2024 at 17 years old. The teenager currently competes in the Italian Formula 4 championships, the first stage of the pathway towards Formula One. 15. Loh Kean Yew became the 2021 Men's singles badminton champion, the first Singaporean to attain this feat. He recently won the bronze medal at the 2025 Badminton Asian Championships in Ningbo, China. [embed] 16. Soh Rui Yong is a two-time SEA Games gold medalist in 2015 (Singapore) and 2017 (Kuala Lumpur). He set the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon in a full suit, finishing the 2025 London Marathon with a time of 2 hours 39 minutes. 17. Feng Tianwei was conferred the David Dixon Award, becoming the first Singaporean and table tennis player to receive the outstanding athlete award at 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, UK. [embed] 18. The Singapore national football team reached the semifinals of the 2024 Asean Championship semifinals, losing to eventual winners Vietnam. Singapore last won this major Southeast Asian football tournament in 2012. [embed] 19. Lion City Sailors became the first Singaporean football club to reach the finals of an Asian club football continental tournament. They will play the 2025 ACL Champions League 2 finals against Sharjah FC. [embed] 20. Muhammad Taqi Aljaafari Jahari served as a VAR official at the 2022 Qatar Fifa World Cup, the only Southeast Asian in the role. [embed] 21. Amanda Lee won the 2022 NPC Worldwide British Bodybuilding Championships, earning an IFBB pro card. In 2025, she finished 4th at the IFBB Pro Taiwan Pro Show and among the top 5 at World of Monsterzym 10 in South Korea. [embed] 22. Alice Shi, Rachael Leong, and Tara Nur Ibrahim represented Singapore in equestrian at the Princess's Cup 2022. Alice finished second in the individual category. [embed] 23. Singapore bowlers Shayna Ng and Cherie Tan won gold and silver respectively at the 2021 IBF World Bowling Championships in Dubai, Saudi Arabia. [embed] 24. The Singapore men's water polo team won gold at the 2023 SEA Games, while the Singapore women's water polo team competed for the first time at the World Aquatics Championships in 2024. [embed] 25. The Singapore women's hockey team won the 2025 Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) Cup in Jakarta, Indonesia. [embed] 26. The Singapore skydiving team picked up four medals (one gold, two silvers and one bronze) at the 2025 World Indoor Skydiving Championships in Charleroi, Belgium. Arts and culture [embed] 27. Singer-songwriter Tanya Chua won Best Original Song at the 2024 Asia Contents Awards & Global OTT Awards in Busan, South Korea for Learn To Live Again, the theme for Taiwanese drama Imperfect Us. [embed] 28. Homegrown botanical design studio This Humid House clinched first prize at the 2024 Flora International Flower Festival in Spain with their installation Between Magnolias. [embed] 29. Chai Yee Wei's Wonderland and Kelvin Tong's A Year Of No Significance were named Most Anticipated Chinese-Language Films at the 2024 Golden Rooster Awards. [embed] 30. Brandon Khoo became the first Singaporean and the first Asian nominated for the 2024 Drumeo Awards. He was nominated in the TikTok Drummer of the Year category. [embed] 31. Renee Yadav won first prize at the 2024 Korea International Harp Competition, outperforming 29 competitors from 12 countries in the Young Professional category. [embed] 32. Lakshmi Mohanbabu's sculptures were launched to the International Space Station in Mar 2022, set to be part of the Moon Gallery in 2025. 33. Shabir became the first Singaporean to sign with Sony Music India and had his song "Aayizhai" played across India on World Music Day, 21 Jun 2021. [embed] 34. Singapore Ballet has performed at Le Temps d'Aimer la Danse a Biarritz in France, Mexico's Festival Internacional Cervantino, Chang Mu Arts Festival in Korea, and Philippines Festival of Dance. [embed] 35. In September 2024, Singaporean conductor Wong Kah Chun was appointed the principal conductor and artistic adviser of the Halle, a 165-year-old symphony orchestra based in Manchester, UK. [embed] 36. Singapore showcased its visual arts prowess at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, marking its 11th participation. Tech achievements 37. Ella, a robot barista developed by Singapore start-up Crown Digital, is brewing coffee at Tokyo and Yokohama stations, two of the busiest railway hubs in Japan. Ella's prototype was completed in 2017 and the first version of the robot was unveiled at HOFEX 2019, a food and hospitality tradeshow in Hong Kong. [embed] 38. Singaporean company Trek 2000 International Limited created the ThumbDrive in 1996, a thumb-sized USB data storage device which revolutionised the way digital data was stored and transferred. They now make super secure biometric-encypted thumbdrives. [embed] 39. Singapore firm Creative Technology's Sound Blaster was introduced to the world in 1989. It became the standard for computer audio globally and spawned a range of progressively sophisticated sound cards. Even Michael Jackson was impressed when he saw it at the Comdex trade show in Las Vegas, US that year. [embed] 40. Since releasing its flagship "Diamondback" gaming mouse in 2005, Razer - a Singapore-based tech company co-founded by Min-Liang Tan and Robert Krakoff - has become known for its computer hardware products and strong association with gaming and eSports. [embed] 41. Sea, founded in 2009, is a prominent tech company in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Its subsidiaries, Shopee, Garena, and SeaMoney, have made significant contributions to the region's tech landscape. [embed] 42. Carousell, founded in 2012 by a small team of three, is now the leading recommerce platform in Singapore and Southeast Asia. It has a presence in eight markets under different brands. 43. In response to the 2023 SARS outbreak, the Defence Science & Technology Agency teamed up with Singapore Technologies Electronics to conceptualise the world's first Infrared Fever Screening System. It can screen large groups of people for feverish individuals through thermal imaging tech at border checkpoints like airports. 44. Home-grown company XMI revolutionised the portable-audio scene by developing a new type of speaker: the X-Mini, in 2017. It was the first speaker that could fit in your pocket. Humanitarian efforts [embed] 45. Since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict in 2023, Singapore has conveyed seven tranches of humanitarian assistance for Gaza [embed] 46. The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has provided aid around the world throughout the years, including the Myanmar earthquake in March 2025 and airlifting Afghanistan evacuees in September 2021. [embed] 47. Following Tropical Cyclone Trami in Oct 2024, the Singapore Red Cross dispatched humanitarian aid to affected communities in the Philippines, aiding in disaster relief operations. 48. Priveen Suraj Santakumar and Charanjit Singh Walia volunteered in Poland to aid Ukrainian refugees, earning a nomination for The Straits Times Singaporean of the Year 2022. Culinary success [embed] 49. Chef Kenneth Foong took the helm as head chef at Denmark's four-time World's Best Restaurant, "Noma", in 2020. Under his leadership, the restaurant earned its third Michelin star and named in the top spot on the World's 50 Best list for the 5th time. In 2025, he became Director of Fermentation at "Noma". [[nid:541777]] 50. Chef Mathew Leong, executive chef of "Re-Naa" in Stavanger, Norway, was the only Singaporean named in Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe. He also competed in the Bocuse d'Or Final 2025, the most prestigious culinary competition in the world. [embed] 51. "JL Studio" in Taiwan became the first three-Michelin-starred Singaporean restaurant in the world in August 2023. JL stands for Jimmy Lim, a Singaporean chef, who wanted to put Singaporean food on the world's culinary map. [embed] 52. Singapore's hawker culture was added to Unesco's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2020, acknowledging its significance in the nation's cultural identity. [embed] 53. Chef Julien Royer's "Odette", a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore, has been rated as being one of the top restaurants in Asia, having received numerous awards, including winning first place in Asia's 50 Best Restaurants in 2020. [embed] 54. 11 Singapore restaurants and bars were named in the World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2024, with two-Michelin-starred "Jaan by Kirk Westaway" at Swissôtel The Stamford even bagging the Global Restaurant of the Year award. More global recognition [embed] 55. Li Ling Yung-Hryniewiecki became the first Singaporean woman to swim across the English Channel in September 2022, completing it in 12 hours 54 minutes. [embed] 56. Daryl Tan holds 11 Guinness World Records for speedcubing, including solving the Rubik's Cube while juggling and underwater. No other person holds that many records in cubing. [embed] 57. Singapore Changi Airport was named the World's Best Airport for the 13th time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards, also securing awards for Best Airport Dining, Best Airport Washrooms, and Best Airport in Asia. [[nid:696227]] [embed] 58. Scoot was named 2024 Value Airline of the Year at the prestigious Air Transport World Airline Industry Achievement Awards. [embed] 59. Singapore climbed to 2nd place out of 67 countries in the 2024 IMD World Talent Ranking, making it the highest-ranked country in Asia. [embed] 60. In the 2025 World Happiness Report, Singapore ranked 34th globally, and the top spot for happiness in Southeast Asia. This article was first published in Wonderwall,sg .
