Latest news with #TOC
Online Citizen
03-05-2025
- Politics
- Online Citizen
Join TOC's GE2025 Election Night Livestream – 3 May, from 8PM
Grab your evening drink and popcorn, and tune in to TOC's special livestream coverage as results from Singapore's General Election 2025 begin to roll in. From 8 PM onwards, join Dr Thum Ping Tjin, Sean Francis Han, and special guests—including candidates and commentators—for real-time analysis, live conversations, and on-the-ground updates from counting centres and party assemblies. With five uncontested, voters are casting ballots for 92 parliamentary seats out of the 97 across the country. Polling takes place islandwide from 8AM to 8PM on 3 May. Watch the livestream on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram via TOC's official channels. YouTube: Facebook: Instagram: X/Twitter:
Online Citizen
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Online Citizen
MDDI urges vigilance as online accounts target alternative parties with AI-generated disinformation
The Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) has urged the public to be cautious and discerning when consuming political content online, following the emergence of suspicious social media accounts spreading disinformation against political figures. The advisory follows an earlier statement by MDDI, issued on 22 April 2025 in response to media queries, in which it confirmed it was already looking into the suspicious accounts. These accounts, many created shortly before Nomination Day, appear to specifically target opposition parties. The MDDI reiterated on 25 April that it would 'continue to monitor the online space for foreign interference' and would act against content found to be in breach of Singapore's laws. However, despite initial concerns about possible foreign influence, the patterns of the content suggest that foreign interference may be unlikely in this case. The majority of the posts are directed against alternative political parties, especially the Workers' Party (WP), rather than showing the broader destabilisation tactics often associated with foreign meddling. Channel NewsAsia (CNA) reported a flood of negative comments by unverifiable Facebook users directed at both WP and the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), although the volume and intensity were greater against the opposition. The accounts often employ AI-generated images and other forms of manipulated media to present a veneer of authenticity, sometimes posing as Singaporean users. Based on TOC's monitoring, most of these comments came from newly created or unverifiable accounts, many of which falsely labelled the WP as dishonest. Given that screenshots published by TOC confirm several of these accounts are real and active—with visible false claims directed at opposition figures—questions have been raised about the adequacy of the response from both MDDI and Meta. Many of the accounts remain accessible despite public concern. Despite clear evidence of disinformation, neither party has outlined what concrete actions have been taken to remove or mitigate the impact of these accounts. With polling day approaching, the continued presence of coordinated fake accounts poses risks not only to individual reputations but also to public trust in the democratic process. In a statement, the ministry said, 'We will act on content that is in breach of our laws,' reaffirming the government's commitment to counter online misinformation and uphold electoral integrity. The Elections Department (ELD), on its website, describes foreign interference as 'attempts by foreign actors to manipulate domestic politics through covert and deceptive means, which undermines political sovereignty and harms social cohesion.' While that remains a long-term concern, the current situation may point more towards coordinated domestic efforts, though the government has not ruled anything out at this stage.
ME Construction
25-02-2025
- Business
- ME Construction
Abra unveils 2025 expansion strategy with plans to complete over 700 projects
Construction Abra unveils 2025 expansion strategy with plans to complete over 700 projects By From entering nine new countries to diversifying its portfolio across industries, Abra was committed to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability in 2024 Abra says it celebrated a landmark year marked by unprecedented growth, expansion into new markets, and groundbreaking achievements. From entering nine new countries to diversifying its portfolio across industries, Abra's 2024 year was commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. With over 50 projects in progress and plans to complete over 700 by the end of 2025, the company says it is poised for another record-breaking year. 'Our growth in 2024 was fueled by a clear vision, strategic execution, and the tireless efforts of our growing team of over 400 professionals,' said Anand Kumar, Managing Director of Abra. 'The launch of JEA, our joint venture with a renowned luxury design firm, marks a significant step forward in offering creative & luxury design solutions tailored to the Middle East market focused on luxury residential and fine dining. This partnership reflects our commitment to delivering unparalleled quality and innovation across multiple market segments.' In this changed environment, Abra is well-positioned to capitalise on the growing demand for fit-out services, which is being driven by continued investments in methods, technology, and sustainability, the company said. Abra celebrated its first anniversary in Saudi Arabia by cementing multiple flagship projects and solidifying its standing as a reliable partner in that region. The company also entered new markets such as India, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Maldives, Cameroon, Switzerland, Denmark, Mauritius, and Germany, marking its global presence. In addition to this, the company also diversified into new segments, including beverages, fashion, eye-wear, and jewelry, which broadened its capabilities and market scope. 'Our perspective is more than just numbers; we want to help evolve the future of retail and interior solutions by integrating cutting-edge technology into designed setups and continuing to expand our environmental activities. Abra is committed to supporting a more sustainable and vibrant industry environment by providing clients with practical, eco-friendly options and supporting innovation in all projects,' Anand remarked. Abra's operational achievements in 2024 included the successful implementation of the Theory of Constraints (TOC) procedures, which focuses on optimising workflows to increase efficiency. The company also marks an important milestone in its digital transformation journey by completing the first phase of its digitalisation initiative. Abra was recognised for its commitment to sustainability by receiving internationally renowned certifications such as the Ecovadis Silver Badge and a CDP C-grade rating, confirming its commitment to environmentally beneficial activities, the statement outlined. Trends in the worldwide fit-out market lend credence to Abra's strategy. According to recent industry forecasts, the luxury fit-out market was valued at approximately US $2.85bn in 2023 and is predicted to rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.85%reaching $32.7bn by 2030. This growth is being driven by a greater supply of personalised brands and a growing focus on design and function. The country is expected to experience major growth, pushed by urbanisation and contemporary lifestyle trends. These dynamics present tremendous opportunities for innovative businesses like Abra to expand their reach and provide customised solutions worldwide. As Abra looks ahead, it remains devoted to providing ground-breaking solutions that set new benchmarks for quality, sustainability, and creativity. The accomplishments of 2024 have laid a solid foundation for what is projected to be an even more dynamic and influential year ahead, the statement concluded.
USA Today
05-02-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
With a dog named 'Awesome' by her side, Jin Young Ko looks to win fourth Founders Cup
With a dog named 'Awesome' by her side, Jin Young Ko looks to win fourth Founders Cup Show Caption Hide Caption Golfweek instruction video: How to practice properly for longer drives Averee Dovsek explains the key to unlocking power and that next level of endurance with practice on the range. Jin Young Ko typically begins each year with a winter training session in a warm place in Asia with a host of other students, including many juniors. But not this year. This time, the former No. 1 decided to bring her parents over to the U.S., along with the family dog, to gear up for 2025 in Florida. Ko's 9-year-old Maltese named Dae-bak, which translates to "Awesome" in English, captained the fan club at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions wearing a pair of red-rimmed sunglasses. Ko took a share of fourth in her TOC debut. Awesome heads next to the Founders Cup in Bradenton, Florida, where Ko looks to win that title for a fourth time over four different courses. "I had to stop by Dallas because he has to rest because of the long flight," said Ko of her dog's journey from South Korea. "He has jet lag when we were in Dallas. He's sleeping all day like two days in a row. Then he wakes me up 3 a.m. He was hungry." Ko, 29, said she often felt like she couldn't take a break at those winter training camps because all eyes were on her. In Florida, she could work at her own pace quietly with her manager and physio on hand to help. "I realize I'm getting old," she said. "I think I need to take time for myself." Until 2024, Ko had won on the LPGA every year dating to 2017. A 15-time winner on tour, the two-time major winner's last victory dates to the 2023 Founders Cup in New Jersey. Ko's first Founders Cup victory goes back to 2019 when the event was held in Arizona. She also won the tournament at Mountain Ridge Country Club in West Caldwell, New Jersey, and then again two years later at Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton. This year's Founders Cup will be held Feb. 6-9 at Bradenton Country Club, site of last year's Drive On Championship, won by the hometown hero, Nelly Korda. Ko didn't compete in last year's event, so this will be her first time playing the Donald Ross design. The Drive On became the Founders Cup after Cognizant dropped its title sponsorship. While Ko came to the U.S. in early January, she actually got back to work on her game Dec. 1, taking only a week off after the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship. She has long been vocal about her desire to get into the LPGA Hall of Fame and needs seven more points to get there. "I want to win," said Ko. "I like to win. I like to win major, especially." Several years ago, it looked like Ko and Korda might engage in a back-and-forth rivalry on the LPGA, but injuries from both derailed that storyline. Ko has spent 163 weeks at World No. 1, while Korda sits at 83 weeks and counting. Now they head to Bradenton with their own unique history at an event that celebrates the LPGA's origins in this 75th anniversary season. Korda, who finished runner-up to A Lim Kim last week, matched Ko's Sunday effort of 65 at Lake Nona. They both walked off the course feeling good about what's to come. "This is what I love about golf," said Korda, "being in the hunt on a Sunday, going down the back nine." Ko called her tee-to-green efforts last week "perfect," but noted that she has 23 events left to go in 2025. Now in her eighth season on the LPGA, Ko hasn't played more than 19 events since 2019. "I'm still hungry," she said of a season that could hit all the right notes.
USA Today
04-02-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Here's how 'Today' co-host Dylan Dreyer says her husband turned her game around
Here's how 'Today' co-host Dylan Dreyer says her husband turned her game around ORLANDO, Fla. — Dylan Dreyer's third appearance at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions started off a little rocky. 'Luckily, my caddie/husband, knows when I need a drink on the course, and honestly, that little vodka cranberry turned my whole game around,' said Dreyer, longtime NBC meteorologist and host of the 'Today' show, of her opening round. Dreyer, who comes down from New York out of the cold every year to Orlando, once again had husband Brian Fichera on the bag. An NBC News producer and cameraman, Fichera is the one who introduced Dreyer to golf when they started dating in 2010 while working together at WHDH in Boston. Dreyer, 43, was one of 51 celebrities in the TOC field, competing for a purse of $500,000 in a modified Stablebord format. Recently retired hockey player Joe Pavelski won the event in his first appearance. Pavelski, who lives in Wisconsin, and Dreyer had one thing in common in that both warmed up for the week on a simulator. Dreyer said the last time she'd played a round of golf outside before coming down to Lake Nona was last August. One thing, however, that works in her favor going forward: Her kids all love golf. 'You know, we never pushed them into it,' said Dreyer. 'We kind of just had it on TV on the weekends, and they would watch and putt around the house, like on a little putter thing and they love going to a chip-and-putt that we have near our house, you know, it's kind of a walk in the park, and they love it. They love going to the simulator, all three, they're 8, 5 and 3. They all love it.' Former U.S. soccer star Brandi Chastain made her debut in the TOC this year as did NBC Sports reporter Kira Dixon, a former Miss America. Six females competed in the celebrity division, including Lake Nona resident Annika Sorenstam, a 10-time major champion. "Being inside the lines is really special," said Chastain. "My grandfather so desperately wanted me to play golf, and I went to the driving range with him, he took me to Pebble Beach. He told me all the history about golf and all the players and I loved it because he loved it. ... I just never had formal training, but it was something that we could do together. It's very endearing to me and very special. "When I see families and young kids, to me, that's the best part of being here. They can look at those professional players, and you can see the light in their eyes. That's really important." Dreyer, a 15-handicap, finished last in the celebrity event but hopes her presence and outlook inspires others who might say no to an invitation out of fear of embarrassment. 'You know, you can't perform at that top level in a different sport, but no one cares,' said Dryer. 'Honestly, people are excited to meet you for what you do and the relationship you have with the fans and the people who come out to watch an event like this. 'Good golf is a bonus, but it's not why people are here.'
