Latest news with #SDC
BBC News
2 days ago
- Business
- BBC News
Sevenoaks council considers alternate weekly bin collections
A council in Kent is considering alternate weekly rubbish and food waste collections in a bid to "modernise and improve" its approved by Sevenoaks District Council next month, alternate weekly waste and food waste collections could begin from 1 April 2026, despite split opinions from residents in a 2024 Roy, the council's cabinet member for "cleaner and greener", said: "This change would make the service much more cost-effective so we can invest in new recycling services."SDC said alternating collections would improve recycling rates and enable kerbside glass collections while freeing up resources for more recycling options. The council is also considering providing residents with free wheelie bins for their waste and recycling from next summer, while new glass recycling collections could also start at the same home recycling collections, such as textiles and small electrical items, could also be council said: "These proposed changes would harmonise the waste services with nearby councils that are likely to merge with SDC from April 2028, enabling any newly-formed unitary council to maximise cost and service efficiencies."
Straits Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Tower Transit to run bus services, beach shuttle on Sentosa for 5 years
The beach shuttle operates in a circular route, with 18 stops across the island, and runs at a frequency of 10 to 15 minutes. PHOTO: SENTOSA SINGAPORE – Tower Transit Singapore (TTS) is set to operate eight commercial bus services on the Sentosa resort island from Oct 1, its parent company Kelsian, an Australian transport services firm, said on May 30. In an announcement on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), Kelsian said the move would diversify the business. Since it started operations in 2016, TTS has operated only public buses here . As part of the deal, TTS will also run the smaller Sentosa Beach Shuttle and maintain more than 40 vehicles on behalf of the Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC). Kelsian said the five-year contract is expected to secure a total revenue of about A$27 million (S$22.4 million), excluding the operation of beach shuttle services. SDC will have the option to extend the contract for another five years. The eight bus services to be run by TTS include five for SDC employees and three for guests (Buses A, B and D) , which operate on the island and are free to use. Bus A plies the route between Beach Station , Siloso Point and Resorts World Sentosa, while Bus B connects Beach Station and Sentosa Cove. Bus D operates between Beach Station and the VivoCity shopping complex . Of the more than 40 vehicles TTS will maintain, 14 are electric buses and 10 are electric trams. Kelsian said the contract is 'capital light', with all vehicles, garaging and maintenance facilities owned and provided by SDC. TTS will take on the bus and maintenance services on Oct 1, and the operation of the Sentosa Beach Shuttle from Jan 1, 2026. The beach shuttle operates in a circular route, with 18 stops across the island, and runs at a frequency of 10 to 15 minutes. 'This is a milestone for TTS as it is our first foray into commercial bus operations,' said Mr Winston Toh, managing director of TTS. 'We will build on our experience as a public bus operator to deliver bus rides that are enjoyable, smooth, safe and that live up to Sentosa's reputation as a world-class leisure destination.' Transport services on the island are currently operated by ComfortDelGro Bus, an SDC spokesperson said, while its fleet of vehicles is maintained by Strides Premier Automotive Services. These current contracts started on July 1, 2020, and will expire on Sept 30, the spokesperson said. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Scoop
3 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Stratford District Council Rates Increase For 2025/26 Stays On Track From Long Term Plan Forecast
Stratford District Council (SDC) has adopted its Annual Plan 2025/26 with an average rates increase of 6.9%. Chief Executive Sven Hanne says, 'After a period of significant project delivery, as well as significant cost increases across most of our operations as a result of record-high inflation, things are now starting to look a bit more settled, and this is apparent in our annual planning for 2025/26.' 'While there are still some unders and overs in the individual budgets, we're pleased to have been able to maintain the overall rates increase for this Annual Plan at 6.9% as originally forecast in year 2 of the Long Term Plan 2024-2034,' says Sven. The Long Term Plan 2024-34 adopted a streamlined approach to the delivery of council services, in recognition of the strained economic environment and a significant reduction in external funding available to council. The Annual Plan 2025/26 realises that vision, with the next 12 months focused on maintaining existing infrastructure and continuing to replace assets when they come to the end of their life. 'It's about being realistic and prioritising our core service areas,' says Sven. 'Two notable exceptions from this will be the upgrade of Prospero Place, Stratford's town square, and the extension of Council's residential subdivision,' he says. The Prospero Place project has been a few years in the making and is now in full flight with draft plans being share with the community this month, and work expected to begin before the end of the calendar year. The residential subdvision is a continuation of the previous council subdivision off Pembroke Road with 2025/26 focused on preparing the site for the delivery of infrastructure, such as roading, water and wastewater. Progressing the outcome of the Local Water Done Well reforms will also be a key area of attention for SDC staff and elected members alike. Both options being consulted on in May 2025 will require additional work across the 2025/26 year, with financial investment from the following year, 2026/27. Outside of Local Water Done Well, SDC is awaiting the outcomes of the Resource Management Act and changes to the Building Act. These are likely to have a big influence on the way all councils operate in the regulatory space, setting a new direction for the delivery of consenting and building services. As part of the Annual Plan adoption, minor changes were made to the Fees and Charges Schedule across building services, parking, solid waste, and sale and supply of alcohol. The full Fees & Charges schedule is available here. Mayor Neil Volzke says, 'We have a lot to be proud of here, in the Stratford district, and we want to keep that feeling alive. Elected Members will continue to work hard to maintain a balanced and realistic approach that manages the needs and wants of our community against our financial performance. Finding that sweet spot, that we believe will result in positive outcomes for the whole community, is what democracy is all about.' The Annual Plan 2025/26 will come into effect from 1 July 2025. View the full plan online here: How much rates you pay can depend on a number of things like: The value of your property The services your property receives (water supply, wastewater or solid waste collection) How many dwellings are on the property View our sample rates on page 14 and 15 of the Annual Plan 2025/26.
The Sun
6 days ago
- Politics
- The Sun
MTUC gears up for special delegates conference in August
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) is set to host its Special Delegates Conference (SDC) on August 2 and 3 in Shah Alam. Currently, the MTUC's operations are overseen by a Joint Special Committee (JSC). This committee was established through a Court Consent Order, resolving a dispute that had nullified the previously elected office bearers. The JSC's mandate includes managing the MTUC's administration and organizing the upcoming SDC. JSC chairman, J. Solomon, announced that all affiliated unions have been asked to submit their delegate lists, proposed motions, and nominations for principal officials by June 12, 2025. Notices have been dispatched via mail and are also being publicized through the press to ensure broad and timely distribution. Solomon urged all stakeholders to support the JSC as it fulfills its responsibilities leading up to the August 3 conference. Affiliates needing assistance during this period are encouraged to contact JSC members, MTUC staff, or industrial relations practitioners.
Straits Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Take a deep dive into Peranakan culture at Sentosa Sensoryscape
The Peranakan House is part of the Peranakan Reimagined show, a tribute to the artistry and elegance of Peranakan designs. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR SINGAPORE – With the music of the 1940 Indonesian keroncong hit Bengawan Solo setting the mood, visitors to Sentosa Sensoryscape will rediscover heritage through a contemporary lens in a new Peranakan Reimagined show. The show pays homage to the Peranakans, recognising their culture as a vital part of Singapore's identity, while reinterpreting it for modern audiences through immersive art, performances, culinary events and projection mapping. Ms Thien Kwee Eng, chief executive of Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC), says the vibrant and colourful exhibition promises to captivate the senses and elevate every visitor's experience. 'Through this showcase, we reaffirm our commitment to creating engaging experiences and delivering memorable moments for all our guests,' she says. There are more than 10 installations, as well as close to 20 events and dining arrangements, planned for Peranakan Reimagined. Sentosa Sensoryscape is a 350m two-tier linkway designed as a day-to-night island experience. It presents a 'phygital' – physical and digital – celebration of the senses. From the outset at Beach Station, the trail's element of sensorial surprise awaits visitors who will see a transformation in the area linking Resorts World Sentosa in the north with the island's southern shoreline. Installations and experiences line the walkway, culminating in an after-hours experience called The Peranakan House, which weaves in a 'sixth sense' of the imagination through immersive displays and a choreography of lights. Even the island resort's cable cars have been transformed with panels depicting familiar Peranakan tile designs – also called majolica tiles – as part of the 10th anniversary of the Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line. The three-month show, which launched on May 23 and will run till Aug 31, is a collaboration between SDC and Mount Faber Leisure Group. One key contributor to the concept is Ms Regina Chia, SDC's senior assistant director of brand experience and marketing, who was inspired by the visual and cultural language of the Peranakans , from their intricate craftsmanship and bold batik motifs to the sounds and stories passed down through generations . Ms Regina Chia, Sentosa Development Corporation's senior assistant director of brand experience and marketing, was inspired by the visual and cultural language of the Peranakans. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR She wanted to highlight how this vibrant culture continues to evolve, bridging past and present while inspiring new expressions for generations to come. 'When I started out on this project, I reached out to my closest contacts from the different Peranakan communities,' Ms Chia, 53, tells The Straits Times. 'They went on to connect me with other contacts, demonstrating the warm and hospitable nature of Peranakans in Singapore. The showcase was made possible through the close collaboration of passionate individuals and partners, who brought unique perspectives and knowledge to the table.' The showcase began to take shape after partnering with advocates of Peranakan culture such as Baba Chia , co-founder of the Peranakan Mansion Singapore in Joo Chiat, and Baba Richard Tan. Ms Chia also reached out to organisations such as the Gunong Sayang Association and the Peranakan Indian (Chitty Melaka) Association of Singapore. Together with her team, she set about presenting the community's rich traditions through not only a traditional approach but also the lens of modern design and technology. Ms Chia adds: 'Sentosa Sensoryscape, with its purpose-built design centred on sensorial experiences, allows us to bring Peranakan culture to life in unexpected and meaningful ways.' ST looks at the highlights of the Peranakan Reimagined show . Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line revelry The Sentosa Line cable cars feature Peranakan-inspired exteriors such as pastel hues and majolica tile motifs. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR The Sentosa Line cable car cabins feature striking Peranakan-inspired exteriors such as pastel hues and intricate majolica tile motifs from the historic shophouses of Koon Seng Road, once home to Singapore's Peranakan community. Developed with Mr Alvin Yapp of The Intan Peranakan Home Museum, these heritage-inspired cabins turn the skies above Sentosa into a moving tribute to Peranakan culture. The tile motifs on the cable cars are from the historic shophouses of Koon Seng Road, once home to Singapore's Peranakan community. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Info: Singaporeans and residents get a special one-for-one Sentosa Line promotion between May 23 and Aug 31, including a Sentosa Line round trip for two at $4 (usual price: $4 for an adult and $3 a child). There is also a one-day unlimited ride for two, priced at $14 (usual price: $27 an adult; $22 a child). The promotion is available only for tickets purchased at the Sentosa Line at Sensoryscape Station Ticketing Counter, or at Sensoryscape's Guest Service Centre. Scented Sphere's Rempah and Riang: Secret Sauce of Peranakan Fare Guests can experience Peranakan cuisine at Scented Sphere's Rempah And Riang showcase. PHOTO: SENTOSA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION At Scented Sphere, guests can experience a tapestry of Peranakan aromas and flavours. Commonly used Peranakan herbs and plants are displayed within and behind the sensory garden's vessels. On display are various ingredients in Nonya cuisine, such as laksa leaves (daun kesum), blue pea flowers (bunga telang), curry leaves and pandan leaves. There is also a replica of a Tok Panjang ('long table' in Malay), featuring recipes and information about traditional herbs and plants. Field of Beaded Bloom at Tactile Trellis An installation of beaded Peranakan slippers at the Field of Beaded Bloom at Tactile Trellis. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Within the Field of Beaded Bloom at Tactile Trellis, guests can look forward to an immersive day-to-night experience, where the garden's 198 panels have been transformed with vibrant designs inspired by the intricate beadwork of kasut manek, traditional Peranakan sandals. One interactive installation to check out is a p air of larger-than-life beaded Peranakan slippers, where guests are invited to touch and experience the ornate beadwork. At night, a light show at Tactile Trellis brings batik motifs to life through digital light art displays. From giant installations to mosaic magic An installation of tiffin carriers at a stop along Sentosa Sensoryscape. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR Dotted throughout the 350m thoroughfare are larger-than-life installations at resting nooks that showcase everyday objects Nonyas and Babas still use today. These include objects such as kamcheng (traditional Peranakan containers), with their intricate craftsmanship that alludes to the elegant lifestyles of the Peranakans. Meanwhile, Gilded Mosaic features hundreds of reflective mosaic tiles that form a pixellated image when viewed closely or through a camera, offering fresh perspectives. An installation of a kamcheng (traditional Peranakan container). ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR The Peranakan House at Lookout Loop This 7.2m-tall Peranakan-inspired house transforms into a projection-mapped canvas by night. ST PHOTO: ARIFFIN JAMAR The main attraction of the showcase is a 7.2m-tall Peranakan-inspired house that transforms into a projection-mapped canvas by night. A grand reimagination of a traditional Peranakan home, this larger-than-life centrepiece is adorned with intricate detailing and bold colours as a tribute to the artistry and elegance of Peranakan designs. After dark, the installation comes alive with a new experience featuring dynamic multimedia storytelling and projection artwork, illuminating the rich textures of Peranakan life, from intricate motifs and architecture to beloved cuisine. These can be admired from different angles while strolling along Lookout Loop. Info: The projection show runs daily from May 23 till Aug 31 every 15 minutes from 7.30 to 9.30pm . Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape Staff of Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape modelling some of the sarong kebaya ensembles available for rental. PHOTO: MOUNT FABER LEISURE GROUP Visitors can rent k ebayas and batik shirts for adults and children, and enjoy a Peranakan makeover at Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape. Rates for a two-hour rental start at $48 for women's kebayas and $38 for girls', and $35 for men's batik shirts and $30 for boys'. There is also complimentary use of props such as a hand fan and umbrella for women, subject to availability. Also on sale is a selection of kebayas and beaded sandals curated by Mr Raymond Wong from Rumah Kim Choo, a shop in East Coast Road dedicated to showcasing Peranakan culture. Other Peranakan-themed goods include scarves, plus an exclusive collection of Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line Peranakan-themed cable car illustrations on tea towels, tote bags, tumblers, coasters and notebooks by local illustrator @yenidraws. Prices start at $12.90 for a coaster. More ways to soak up Peranakan traditions Scentopia Discover the heritage of the Peranakans through the Allure of Oriented Aromas series at Scentopia's Peranakan Perfume Making Workshop, which costs $80 a person. The hands-on session blends culture and creativity, where workshop participants can concoct a 50ml keepsake of their own signature scent. Good Old Days Savour the flavours of Peranakan cuisine at Good Old Days, the island's popular eatery that offers local and Asian favourites outside Beach Station. Its two-course Peranakan Bento set meal ($26) features Nonya favourites such as ayam buah keluak (Nonya chicken and gravy made from buah keluak nuts), ikan chilli garam (fish cooked in a salt-and-chilli gravy) and chinchalok omelette (omelette made with fermented krill). Rumours Beach Club Rumours Beach Club marks SG60 with a taste of tradition, where every dish tells the story of Peranakan heritage. Its Hae Bee Hiam Ngoh Hiang is a blend of coriander, radish and carrot, wrapped around minced pork and prawns, fragranced with five spice and topped with hae bee hiam (dried chilli prawn paste). There is also Grilled Scallop with Curry Laksa Butter, which has three pieces of grilled half-shell scallops with roe, topped with torch ginger flower, curry laksa butter and toasted coconut flakes. It comes with a side of homemade shrimp sambal. The Peranakan Heritage Feast Set is priced at $71.94. Quentin's Bar & Restaurant Its Peranakan Tasting Menu, priced at $48++, is a curated Peranakan Set Lunch showcasing the depth and elegance of Nonya flavours. From Ayam Buah Keluak and Babi Tahu (braised pork in dark sauce) to the Gula Melaka Lava Cake, each dish is a tribute to Peranakan culinary traditions centred on a balance of spicy, savoury and sweet tastes. Designer and lifestyle journalist Chantal Sajan writes on design and architecture. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
