Latest news with #carsharing
CNA
06-08-2025
- Automotive
- CNA
CNA938 Rewind - Are AI enhancements behind BlueSG's 'strategic pause' and suspension of services?
Electric car-sharing firm Blue SG will suspend operations from this Friday, 11.59 p.m. It will return next year though. Is this move due to market competition or infrastructure? Daniel Martin finds out more from Keith Kee, CEO, Blue SG.
Independent Singapore
05-08-2025
- Automotive
- Independent Singapore
BlueSG reportedly lays off up to 80% of workforce ahead of 'strategic pause' of services on Aug 8
Photo: Facebook/BlueSG SINGAPORE: BlueSG has reportedly let go of up to 80% of its workforce, Mothership reported, citing a tip-off from one of the company's laid-off employees, although he did not provide details of the severance package or how the layoffs were carried out. On Monday, the electric car-sharing firm said it would suspend operations from Friday (Aug 8) at 11:59 p.m., calling it a 'strategic pause' as it prepares to launch a new service next year, Channel News Asia reported, citing the company's press release. BlueSG said the new platform will come with a new range of vehicles, more pickup and drop-off points, and a more reliable, smoother user experience. When asked for comment, BlueSG confirmed the layoffs to Mothership . 'We can confirm that as operations pause for the platform upgrade, BlueSG will be operating with a lean core team — a move which has unfortunately impacted a significant portion of our workforce,' the company said. The company didn't discuss how many employees were affected but said it remains the company's 'top priority' to support them with fair severance, clear communication, and meaningful career transition. The company said that it's also exploring 'potential redeployment opportunities' across the group and hopes to welcome back members of the original team when the new platform launches. 'This decision was not made lightly, and we're handling the process with utmost care and respect for everyone involved,' the company added. National Transport Workers' Union (NTWU) executive secretary Yeo Wan Ling also told Mothership that while BlueSG is a non-unionised company, some of its employees are NTWU members, an affiliated union with the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). ' Ms Yeo said NTUC-affiliated unions or associations will assist and support affected union members working in non-unionised companies. Affected workers can reach out to NTWU at 6743 0822 during office hours or email [email protected]. NTUC's Employment and Employability Institute, e2i, also offers career coaching, employability workshops, and job matching services for affected Singaporeans and PRs at . Affected union members may also seek help through TADM@NTUC or the NTUC workplace advisory portal. /TISG See also Women In Tech: A Global Evaluation Read also: Grab posts US$20M profit in Q2, rebounding from US$68M loss as revenue beats forecasts () => { const trigger = if ('IntersectionObserver' in window && trigger) { const observer = new IntersectionObserver((entries, observer) => { => { if ( { lazyLoader(); // You should define lazyLoader() elsewhere or inline here // Run once } }); }, { rootMargin: '800px', threshold: 0.1 }); } else { // Fallback setTimeout(lazyLoader, 3000); } });
Yahoo
04-08-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
BlueSG shuts down temporarily for major revamp; Billionaire Ong Beng Seng admits guilt in Iswaran corruption scandal: Singapore live news
Singapore's electric car-sharing pioneer BlueSG will pause its electric car-sharing service on 8 August to prepare for a major relaunch in 2026. The company plans to introduce a new fleet, expanded pickup points, and a next-generation platform designed for greater efficiency and flexibility. CEO Keith Kee said the pause allows BlueSG to focus entirely on building a smarter, user-centric system. During the transition, all billing, subscription adjustments, and refunds will be handled by 31 Aug. To support affected users, BlueSG has partnered with the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE), which has set up a dedicated channel for assistance. Customers can reach CASE via their hotline 6277 5100 or website. More on BlueSG shutting down temporarily here Singapore Formula One tycoon Ong Beng Seng has pleaded guilty to abetting obstruction of justice in a corruption case involving former transport minister S Iswaran. The scandal centres on a luxury trip to Doha in 2022, which Ong paid for, including a private jet ride, hotel stay, and return flight. When the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) seized the flight manifest in 2023, Ong helped Iswaran retroactively pay for the flight to avoid scrutiny. Prosecutors say this act had a tendency to obstruct justice. A second charge, involving Ong gifting the entire trip, was taken into consideration for sentencing. Ong, 79, is undergoing treatment for bone marrow cancer and stepped down from Hotel Properties Limited earlier this year. His sentencing is pending and could include jail time and fines. His legal team has appealed for leniency, requesting that the court exercise judicial mercy and consider imposing only a fine without any custodial sentence. Read on Ong's guilty plea here. Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates. BlueSG pauses car-sharing service 8 Aug for major upgrade Singapore's electric car-sharing pioneer BlueSG will suspend operations on 8 Aug at 11:59pm, marking a strategic pause ahead of a full relaunch in 2026. The company plans to introduce a refreshed fleet, expanded pickup and drop-off points, and a next-gen tech platform. CEO Keith Kee said the pause allows BlueSG to focus resources on building a user-centric system that meets the growing demand for shared mobility. The upgraded service promises improved reliability, flexibility, and operational efficiency. To support users during the transition, BlueSG has partnered with the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) to handle refunds, billing issues, and account closures. All refunds will be processed by 31 Aug. Customers can reach CASE through its hotline (6277 5100) or website for help with outstanding bills and subscription issues. Read on BlueSG pausing its services here. Singapore's F1 mogul Ong Beng Seng pleads guilty in Iswaran gift scandal UPDATE: Singapore F1 tycoon Ong Beng Seng has pleaded guilty to abetting obstruction of justice in a corruption case involving former transport minister S Iswaran. The scandal centres on a lavish 2022 trip to Doha, where Ong hosted Iswaran on his private jet and paid for a stay at the Four Seasons Hotel. The return flight, also paid for by Ong's company, Singapore GP, was only reimbursed months later, after the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) seized the flight manifest. Ong then instructed Singapore GP to bill Iswaran and keep records, a move prosecutors say was intended to obstruct justice. Ong also consented to a second charge, taken into consideration, for gifting Iswaran the entire trip worth $20,850. Iswaran, who chaired the F1 Steering Committee, was sentenced to 12 months' jail last year for accepting gifts and obstructing justice. Ong's sentencing is pending. He faces up to seven years in jail and a fine. His legal team has appealed for leniency, requesting that the court exercise judicial mercy and consider imposing only a fine without any custodial sentence. The tycoon, who brought Formula 1 to Singapore in 2008, stepped down from Hotel Properties Limited in April to manage his bone marrow cancer. Read on Ong's case here. Singapore says no plans to liberalise ride-hailing to Johor The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has clarified that it has no intention to fully liberalise cross-border ride-hailing services between Singapore and Johor Bahru. The announcement follows recent media reports and an 1 Aug meeting between officials from both countries. While the idea of on-demand cross-border rides was raised, no decision was made. Instead, LTA is exploring enhancements to the existing Cross Border Taxi Scheme (CBTS), which allows up to 200 licensed taxis from each side to operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru. These taxis currently pick up and drop off passengers only at designated terminals – Larkin Sentral and Ban San Street. To improve convenience, LTA is considering increasing the number of pickup and drop-off points and enabling app-based bookings for licensed taxis. Enforcement against illegal ride-hailing remains active, with safety and driver welfare as key priorities. Separately, LTA is reviewing Malaysia's request to start cross-border buses at 4am to ease morning congestion. Any changes will be aligned with Singapore's local transport schedules. Singapore job market shows signs of life Singapore's job market is bouncing back, with a 2.1 per cent rise in postings in June 2025, according to job site and hiring platform Indeed. AI-related roles are booming, appearing in one-third of tech listings and increasingly in non-tech sectors like research and engineering. Healthcare and infrastructure jobs are also surging, with sports and pharmaceutical roles tripling since pre-pandemic times. Meanwhile, service roles like public safety and veterinary care are seeing declines. Despite a year-on-year slowdown, job creation remains robust. Employers are cautiously optimistic, focusing on sectors aligned with national priorities. Indeed's data shows job postings are still 43 per cent above pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the market's resilience. But global uncertainty looms large. Callam Pickering, Indeed's APAC economist, says hiring remains strong enough to keep unemployment low. But he warns that geopolitical shifts could cloud future growth. Singapore drivers dined $136,000 in Johor VEP crackdown Malaysia's Road Transport Department (JPJ) has fined 1,489 Singapore-registered vehicles a total of $136,030 since fully enforcing its Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) scheme on 1 July. The operation, dubbed Ops Penguatkuasaan VEP, targeted vehicles without activated RFID tags at key checkpoints including Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) and Kompleks Sultan Abu Bakar (KSAB). JPJ Senior Enforcement Director Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan said the department has adopted a zero-tolerance approach – no warnings, just immediate fines of RM300 per violation. Offenders must pay on the spot before continuing their journey. While nearly 90 per cent of inspected vehicles had valid VEP tags, many fined drivers claimed they were unaware enforcement had begun, believing Malaysia was still in an advocacy phase. As of 31 July, 277,930 VEP tags have been issued to Singaporean vehicles. JPJ will continue inspections at locations frequented by Singapore drivers. Read more on Malaysia's VEP enforcement here. Singapore charges Briton over threats, racist abuse on SIA flight Steven Harris, a British national, is facing serious legal consequences in Singapore after allegedly threatening passengers and assaulting crew on a flight from London. The incident took place aboard Singapore Airlines flight SQ309 on 28 April, according to CNA. Court documents reveal Harris made anti-Semitic threats to a fellow passenger, including 'You are Israeli, f––– off, I'll kill you,' and racist remarks about interracial relationships. He also shoved a crew member twice and hurled profanities at another calling him by calling him a 'glorified bar man'. He has been charged with criminal intimidation, harassment, and two counts under the Air Navigation Act. If convicted, Harris could face up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching $100,000. Harris pleaded not guilty and awaits a pre-trial conference next month. The case has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of aviation conduct. Read on Singapore charging a Briton for his in-flight misconduct here. Singapore's eggplant exhibit targeted by visitors – again Art theft has taken a bizarre turn in Singapore, where eggplants from Suzann Victor's "Still Life" installation are being stolen by gallery-goers. The work, part of the National Gallery's "Singapore Stories" exhibition, features 200 brinjals mounted on walls in a nod to Victor's 1992 performance art roots. Despite warnings and signage, the eggplants keep disappearing. The gallery says the fruits are replaced monthly and composted by a nonprofit. The incident recalls other high-profile art disruptions. Maurizio Cattelan's "Comedian" – a banana taped to a wall – has been eaten at least four times, including by a museum visitor in France this July. Cattelan's banana, meant to mock art market absurdity, was sold to Justin Sun for $6.24 million. Sun later ate it, declaring it 'tasted better than other bananas'. New six-lane bridge eases Punggol traffic woes Singapore's latest infrastructure upgrade is here: a six-lane vehicular bridge now connects Punggol Central to Seletar Link. Officially opened on Sunday (3 Aug), the bridge offers motorists in Punggol West a much-needed alternative route to the Tampines Expressway (TPE). Located near Yusof Ishak Secondary School, the bridge is part of the new Seletar South Link and features barrier-free paths, upgraded junctions, and cycling lanes on both sides. It's designed to ease congestion on Punggol Road and Punggol Way, notorious for peak-hour bottlenecks. Senior Minister Sun Xueling highlighted the bridge's role in supporting young families and future Build-To-Order (BTO) flats planned for western Punggol. The bridge complements the Seletar Link Flyover opened in 2024. DBS staff's instinct saves customer from $70k scam At DBS's Thomson Plaza branch, assistant service manager Yu Chunmei noticed something wasn't right. A senior customer wanted to withdraw $70,000 in cash for a supposed home renovation, but her hands were trembling, and she looked visibly distressed. Yu asked a few questions and quickly realised the woman hadn't hired any contractor. Then came a note from a man nearby: 'Can we talk privately – without her?' He was her husband, and he revealed that scammers posing as insurance agents and police had convinced his wife her bank account was linked to criminal activity. The scammers instructed her to withdraw the money for an 'investigation' and warned her to keep her phone on so they could track her movements. Yu and her manager intervened, got her to switch off her phone, and locked her funds using DBS's digiVault feature. The woman was advised to file a police report. Read on how DBS staff's sharp instincts save an elderly woman from a massive fraud here. Meta AI recruitment spree: US$1 billion offer declined, US$250 million accepted Meta's billion-dollar offer to lure top researchers from Thinking Machines Lab was met with a firm 'no thanks'. Despite Meta's aggressive push to staff its Superintelligence Labs, not a single researcher from Mira Murati's team took the bait. In contrast, Matt Deitke, a 24-year-old AI prodigy, accepted a US$250 million deal after a personal meeting with Mark Zuckerberg. The revised offer included US$100 million in year one. Meta's Superintelligence Labs are part of a broader US$72 billion AI investment strategy. The tech giant's recruitment spree has cost over $1 billion, with hires like Shengjia Zhao, Ruoming Pang and Alexandr Wang joining the fold. But the mixed results in recruitment raise questions about its long-term appeal, with the rejection from Thinking Machines hinting at deeper brand and leadership concerns. Hamas won't disarm without Palestinian statehood Hamas has reaffirmed its refusal to disarm until a fully sovereign Palestinian state is established, with Jerusalem as its capital. This declaration comes as France, the UK and Canada announce plans to recognise Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry is preparing a strategy to implement a two-state solution, reflecting growing global support. Mediators Qatar and Egypt backed a proposal for Hamas to hand over arms to the Palestinian Authority, but Hamas rejected it. Nearly 150 countries already recognise Palestine, highlighting Israel's increasing diplomatic isolation. Despite mounting pressure, Hamas insists armed resistance remains a legitimate right. The international community is pushing for peace, but Hamas's stance may complicate the path forward. The September vote could be a turning point, or another missed opportunity. Read on Hamas rejecting disarmament here. Tharman honours sinkhole rescue heroes at Istana Seven migrant workers who saved a woman from a sinkhole were honoured by President Tharman at the Istana's open house on Sunday (3 August). The men sprang into action when a car fell into a sudden cavity near Mountbatten Road. Using a nylon rope, they pulled the driver to safety within minutes. Their bravery sparked public admiration and a wave of support. Tharman invited them to the Istana, where he thanked them personally and gifted each a Presidential Crest pen. The workers also received Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Appreciation Coins for their heroism. A public fundraiser raised over $72,000, which will be split among the rescuers. The charity behind it, ItsRainingRaincoats, will host a celebration on 10 August. Read on President Tharman honouring the sinkhole rescue heroes here. Singapore's electric car-sharing pioneer BlueSG will suspend operations on 8 Aug at 11:59pm, marking a strategic pause ahead of a full relaunch in 2026. The company plans to introduce a refreshed fleet, expanded pickup and drop-off points, and a next-gen tech platform. CEO Keith Kee said the pause allows BlueSG to focus resources on building a user-centric system that meets the growing demand for shared mobility. The upgraded service promises improved reliability, flexibility, and operational efficiency. To support users during the transition, BlueSG has partnered with the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) to handle refunds, billing issues, and account closures. All refunds will be processed by 31 Aug. Customers can reach CASE through its hotline (6277 5100) or website for help with outstanding bills and subscription issues. Read on BlueSG pausing its services here. UPDATE: Singapore F1 tycoon Ong Beng Seng has pleaded guilty to abetting obstruction of justice in a corruption case involving former transport minister S Iswaran. The scandal centres on a lavish 2022 trip to Doha, where Ong hosted Iswaran on his private jet and paid for a stay at the Four Seasons Hotel. The return flight, also paid for by Ong's company, Singapore GP, was only reimbursed months later, after the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) seized the flight manifest. Ong then instructed Singapore GP to bill Iswaran and keep records, a move prosecutors say was intended to obstruct justice. Ong also consented to a second charge, taken into consideration, for gifting Iswaran the entire trip worth $20,850. Iswaran, who chaired the F1 Steering Committee, was sentenced to 12 months' jail last year for accepting gifts and obstructing justice. Ong's sentencing is pending. He faces up to seven years in jail and a fine. His legal team has appealed for leniency, requesting that the court exercise judicial mercy and consider imposing only a fine without any custodial sentence. The tycoon, who brought Formula 1 to Singapore in 2008, stepped down from Hotel Properties Limited in April to manage his bone marrow cancer. Read on Ong's case here. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has clarified that it has no intention to fully liberalise cross-border ride-hailing services between Singapore and Johor Bahru. The announcement follows recent media reports and an 1 Aug meeting between officials from both countries. While the idea of on-demand cross-border rides was raised, no decision was made. Instead, LTA is exploring enhancements to the existing Cross Border Taxi Scheme (CBTS), which allows up to 200 licensed taxis from each side to operate between Singapore and Johor Bahru. These taxis currently pick up and drop off passengers only at designated terminals – Larkin Sentral and Ban San Street. To improve convenience, LTA is considering increasing the number of pickup and drop-off points and enabling app-based bookings for licensed taxis. Enforcement against illegal ride-hailing remains active, with safety and driver welfare as key priorities. Separately, LTA is reviewing Malaysia's request to start cross-border buses at 4am to ease morning congestion. Any changes will be aligned with Singapore's local transport schedules. Singapore's job market is bouncing back, with a 2.1 per cent rise in postings in June 2025, according to job site and hiring platform Indeed. AI-related roles are booming, appearing in one-third of tech listings and increasingly in non-tech sectors like research and engineering. Healthcare and infrastructure jobs are also surging, with sports and pharmaceutical roles tripling since pre-pandemic times. Meanwhile, service roles like public safety and veterinary care are seeing declines. Despite a year-on-year slowdown, job creation remains robust. Employers are cautiously optimistic, focusing on sectors aligned with national priorities. Indeed's data shows job postings are still 43 per cent above pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the market's resilience. But global uncertainty looms large. Callam Pickering, Indeed's APAC economist, says hiring remains strong enough to keep unemployment low. But he warns that geopolitical shifts could cloud future growth. Singapore drivers dined $136,000 in Johor VEP crackdown Malaysia's Road Transport Department (JPJ) has fined 1,489 Singapore-registered vehicles a total of $136,030 since fully enforcing its Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) scheme on 1 July. The operation, dubbed Ops Penguatkuasaan VEP, targeted vehicles without activated RFID tags at key checkpoints including Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) and Kompleks Sultan Abu Bakar (KSAB). JPJ Senior Enforcement Director Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan said the department has adopted a zero-tolerance approach – no warnings, just immediate fines of RM300 per violation. Offenders must pay on the spot before continuing their journey. While nearly 90 per cent of inspected vehicles had valid VEP tags, many fined drivers claimed they were unaware enforcement had begun, believing Malaysia was still in an advocacy phase. As of 31 July, 277,930 VEP tags have been issued to Singaporean vehicles. JPJ will continue inspections at locations frequented by Singapore drivers. Read more on Malaysia's VEP enforcement here. Malaysia's Road Transport Department (JPJ) has fined 1,489 Singapore-registered vehicles a total of $136,030 since fully enforcing its Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) scheme on 1 July. The operation, dubbed Ops Penguatkuasaan VEP, targeted vehicles without activated RFID tags at key checkpoints including Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) and Kompleks Sultan Abu Bakar (KSAB). JPJ Senior Enforcement Director Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan said the department has adopted a zero-tolerance approach – no warnings, just immediate fines of RM300 per violation. Offenders must pay on the spot before continuing their journey. While nearly 90 per cent of inspected vehicles had valid VEP tags, many fined drivers claimed they were unaware enforcement had begun, believing Malaysia was still in an advocacy phase. As of 31 July, 277,930 VEP tags have been issued to Singaporean vehicles. JPJ will continue inspections at locations frequented by Singapore drivers. Read more on Malaysia's VEP enforcement here. Singapore charges Briton over threats, racist abuse on SIA flight Steven Harris, a British national, is facing serious legal consequences in Singapore after allegedly threatening passengers and assaulting crew on a flight from London. The incident took place aboard Singapore Airlines flight SQ309 on 28 April, according to CNA. Court documents reveal Harris made anti-Semitic threats to a fellow passenger, including 'You are Israeli, f––– off, I'll kill you,' and racist remarks about interracial relationships. He also shoved a crew member twice and hurled profanities at another calling him by calling him a 'glorified bar man'. He has been charged with criminal intimidation, harassment, and two counts under the Air Navigation Act. If convicted, Harris could face up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching $100,000. Harris pleaded not guilty and awaits a pre-trial conference next month. The case has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of aviation conduct. Read on Singapore charging a Briton for his in-flight misconduct here. Steven Harris, a British national, is facing serious legal consequences in Singapore after allegedly threatening passengers and assaulting crew on a flight from London. The incident took place aboard Singapore Airlines flight SQ309 on 28 April, according to CNA. Court documents reveal Harris made anti-Semitic threats to a fellow passenger, including 'You are Israeli, f––– off, I'll kill you,' and racist remarks about interracial relationships. He also shoved a crew member twice and hurled profanities at another calling him by calling him a 'glorified bar man'. He has been charged with criminal intimidation, harassment, and two counts under the Air Navigation Act. If convicted, Harris could face up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching $100,000. Harris pleaded not guilty and awaits a pre-trial conference next month. The case has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of aviation conduct. Read on Singapore charging a Briton for his in-flight misconduct here. Singapore's eggplant exhibit targeted by visitors – again Art theft has taken a bizarre turn in Singapore, where eggplants from Suzann Victor's "Still Life" installation are being stolen by gallery-goers. The work, part of the National Gallery's "Singapore Stories" exhibition, features 200 brinjals mounted on walls in a nod to Victor's 1992 performance art roots. Despite warnings and signage, the eggplants keep disappearing. The gallery says the fruits are replaced monthly and composted by a nonprofit. The incident recalls other high-profile art disruptions. Maurizio Cattelan's "Comedian" – a banana taped to a wall – has been eaten at least four times, including by a museum visitor in France this July. Cattelan's banana, meant to mock art market absurdity, was sold to Justin Sun for $6.24 million. Sun later ate it, declaring it 'tasted better than other bananas'. Art theft has taken a bizarre turn in Singapore, where eggplants from Suzann Victor's "Still Life" installation are being stolen by gallery-goers. The work, part of the National Gallery's "Singapore Stories" exhibition, features 200 brinjals mounted on walls in a nod to Victor's 1992 performance art roots. Despite warnings and signage, the eggplants keep disappearing. The gallery says the fruits are replaced monthly and composted by a nonprofit. The incident recalls other high-profile art disruptions. Maurizio Cattelan's "Comedian" – a banana taped to a wall – has been eaten at least four times, including by a museum visitor in France this July. Cattelan's banana, meant to mock art market absurdity, was sold to Justin Sun for $6.24 million. Sun later ate it, declaring it 'tasted better than other bananas'. New six-lane bridge eases Punggol traffic woes Singapore's latest infrastructure upgrade is here: a six-lane vehicular bridge now connects Punggol Central to Seletar Link. Officially opened on Sunday (3 Aug), the bridge offers motorists in Punggol West a much-needed alternative route to the Tampines Expressway (TPE). Located near Yusof Ishak Secondary School, the bridge is part of the new Seletar South Link and features barrier-free paths, upgraded junctions, and cycling lanes on both sides. It's designed to ease congestion on Punggol Road and Punggol Way, notorious for peak-hour bottlenecks. Senior Minister Sun Xueling highlighted the bridge's role in supporting young families and future Build-To-Order (BTO) flats planned for western Punggol. The bridge complements the Seletar Link Flyover opened in 2024. Singapore's latest infrastructure upgrade is here: a six-lane vehicular bridge now connects Punggol Central to Seletar Link. Officially opened on Sunday (3 Aug), the bridge offers motorists in Punggol West a much-needed alternative route to the Tampines Expressway (TPE). Located near Yusof Ishak Secondary School, the bridge is part of the new Seletar South Link and features barrier-free paths, upgraded junctions, and cycling lanes on both sides. It's designed to ease congestion on Punggol Road and Punggol Way, notorious for peak-hour bottlenecks. Senior Minister Sun Xueling highlighted the bridge's role in supporting young families and future Build-To-Order (BTO) flats planned for western Punggol. The bridge complements the Seletar Link Flyover opened in 2024. DBS staff's instinct saves customer from $70k scam At DBS's Thomson Plaza branch, assistant service manager Yu Chunmei noticed something wasn't right. A senior customer wanted to withdraw $70,000 in cash for a supposed home renovation, but her hands were trembling, and she looked visibly distressed. Yu asked a few questions and quickly realised the woman hadn't hired any contractor. Then came a note from a man nearby: 'Can we talk privately – without her?' He was her husband, and he revealed that scammers posing as insurance agents and police had convinced his wife her bank account was linked to criminal activity. The scammers instructed her to withdraw the money for an 'investigation' and warned her to keep her phone on so they could track her movements. Yu and her manager intervened, got her to switch off her phone, and locked her funds using DBS's digiVault feature. The woman was advised to file a police report. Read on how DBS staff's sharp instincts save an elderly woman from a massive fraud here. At DBS's Thomson Plaza branch, assistant service manager Yu Chunmei noticed something wasn't right. A senior customer wanted to withdraw $70,000 in cash for a supposed home renovation, but her hands were trembling, and she looked visibly distressed. Yu asked a few questions and quickly realised the woman hadn't hired any contractor. Then came a note from a man nearby: 'Can we talk privately – without her?' He was her husband, and he revealed that scammers posing as insurance agents and police had convinced his wife her bank account was linked to criminal activity. The scammers instructed her to withdraw the money for an 'investigation' and warned her to keep her phone on so they could track her movements. Yu and her manager intervened, got her to switch off her phone, and locked her funds using DBS's digiVault feature. The woman was advised to file a police report. Read on how DBS staff's sharp instincts save an elderly woman from a massive fraud here. Meta AI recruitment spree: US$1 billion offer declined, US$250 million accepted Meta's billion-dollar offer to lure top researchers from Thinking Machines Lab was met with a firm 'no thanks'. Despite Meta's aggressive push to staff its Superintelligence Labs, not a single researcher from Mira Murati's team took the bait. In contrast, Matt Deitke, a 24-year-old AI prodigy, accepted a US$250 million deal after a personal meeting with Mark Zuckerberg. The revised offer included US$100 million in year one. Meta's Superintelligence Labs are part of a broader US$72 billion AI investment strategy. The tech giant's recruitment spree has cost over $1 billion, with hires like Shengjia Zhao, Ruoming Pang and Alexandr Wang joining the fold. But the mixed results in recruitment raise questions about its long-term appeal, with the rejection from Thinking Machines hinting at deeper brand and leadership concerns. Meta's billion-dollar offer to lure top researchers from Thinking Machines Lab was met with a firm 'no thanks'. Despite Meta's aggressive push to staff its Superintelligence Labs, not a single researcher from Mira Murati's team took the bait. In contrast, Matt Deitke, a 24-year-old AI prodigy, accepted a US$250 million deal after a personal meeting with Mark Zuckerberg. The revised offer included US$100 million in year one. Meta's Superintelligence Labs are part of a broader US$72 billion AI investment strategy. The tech giant's recruitment spree has cost over $1 billion, with hires like Shengjia Zhao, Ruoming Pang and Alexandr Wang joining the fold. But the mixed results in recruitment raise questions about its long-term appeal, with the rejection from Thinking Machines hinting at deeper brand and leadership concerns. Hamas won't disarm without Palestinian statehood Hamas has reaffirmed its refusal to disarm until a fully sovereign Palestinian state is established, with Jerusalem as its capital. This declaration comes as France, the UK and Canada announce plans to recognise Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry is preparing a strategy to implement a two-state solution, reflecting growing global support. Mediators Qatar and Egypt backed a proposal for Hamas to hand over arms to the Palestinian Authority, but Hamas rejected it. Nearly 150 countries already recognise Palestine, highlighting Israel's increasing diplomatic isolation. Despite mounting pressure, Hamas insists armed resistance remains a legitimate right. The international community is pushing for peace, but Hamas's stance may complicate the path forward. The September vote could be a turning point, or another missed opportunity. Read on Hamas rejecting disarmament here. Hamas has reaffirmed its refusal to disarm until a fully sovereign Palestinian state is established, with Jerusalem as its capital. This declaration comes as France, the UK and Canada announce plans to recognise Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry is preparing a strategy to implement a two-state solution, reflecting growing global support. Mediators Qatar and Egypt backed a proposal for Hamas to hand over arms to the Palestinian Authority, but Hamas rejected it. Nearly 150 countries already recognise Palestine, highlighting Israel's increasing diplomatic isolation. Despite mounting pressure, Hamas insists armed resistance remains a legitimate right. The international community is pushing for peace, but Hamas's stance may complicate the path forward. The September vote could be a turning point, or another missed opportunity. Read on Hamas rejecting disarmament here. Tharman honours sinkhole rescue heroes at Istana Seven migrant workers who saved a woman from a sinkhole were honoured by President Tharman at the Istana's open house on Sunday (3 August). The men sprang into action when a car fell into a sudden cavity near Mountbatten Road. Using a nylon rope, they pulled the driver to safety within minutes. Their bravery sparked public admiration and a wave of support. Tharman invited them to the Istana, where he thanked them personally and gifted each a Presidential Crest pen. The workers also received Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Appreciation Coins for their heroism. A public fundraiser raised over $72,000, which will be split among the rescuers. The charity behind it, ItsRainingRaincoats, will host a celebration on 10 August. Read on President Tharman honouring the sinkhole rescue heroes here. Seven migrant workers who saved a woman from a sinkhole were honoured by President Tharman at the Istana's open house on Sunday (3 August). The men sprang into action when a car fell into a sudden cavity near Mountbatten Road. Using a nylon rope, they pulled the driver to safety within minutes. Their bravery sparked public admiration and a wave of support. Tharman invited them to the Istana, where he thanked them personally and gifted each a Presidential Crest pen. The workers also received Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Appreciation Coins for their heroism. A public fundraiser raised over $72,000, which will be split among the rescuers. The charity behind it, ItsRainingRaincoats, will host a celebration on 10 August. Read on President Tharman honouring the sinkhole rescue heroes here.
CNA
04-08-2025
- Automotive
- CNA
BlueSG announces sudden pause to car-sharing service from Aug 8, catching users off guard
SINGAPORE: Electric car-sharing firm BlueSG announced on Monday (Aug 4) it will temporarily pause its operations from Friday (Aug 8) at 11.59pm. Calling it a "strategic pause", BlueSG said in a Facebook post that it is gearing up for the "next generation of car-sharing" in 2026. The upgrade will involve a new platform, a refreshed fleet with a new range of vehicles, an expanded network of pickup and drop-off points, as well as "greater reliability and a smoother user experience", BlueSG added. Users with remaining credits or subscriptions with the platform will be fully refunded by Aug 31. "We apologise for the temporary disruption which may cause inconvenience, but we assure you that we'll be returning with a smart, more seamless experience that will make your journey with BlueSG easier, more reliable and enjoyable," it said. User accounts will remain accessible until Aug 31 at 11.59pm, the company said on its website. BlueSG is the only car-sharing platform that offers point-to-point services in Singapore. CNA has contacted BlueSG for more information. Following the announcement, the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) said it was aware of BlueSG's plan to temporarily pause services. "CASE has worked with BlueSG to create a dedicated channel to address matters related to the refund of credits and outstanding bills," the association said in a media release on Monday. Customers who require assistance are advised to approach CASE via its hotline at 6277 5100 or its website at HOW ARE USERS AFFECTED? The company said on its website that all refunds will be processed by Aug 31. Users will not be charged for subscription and/or rentals after the service temporarily ceases operations on Friday. If a user's subscription was billed after Jul 8, the full one-month subscription will be refunded through the original payment method. Some users' subscriptions may have been processed before the cut-off if their billing cycle falls between Aug 4 and Aug 8, BlueSG noted. In that case, a full refund will be issued automatically. Users will be required to update their contact details within the BlueSG app by Aug 16 to a PayNow-linked number. All refunds will be made through that channel. Refunds will be processed in batches starting from Aug 16, BlueSG said. BlueSGs customer service team will provide support until Aug 31 through phone, live chat and emails, it said. From Sep 1 to Oct 1, support will continue via email. ONLY FOUR DAYS' NOTICE GIVEN Some BlueSG users were taken aback by the move, given the short four-day notice, and lamented the temporary loss of Singapore's only point-to-point car-sharing service. Others raised questions online as to whether an upgrade would mean higher prices when the service relaunches in 2026. Mr Joel Tan said that he was surprised as he thought BlueSG was "doing fine". "This is the second or third time that they have upgraded the system, and much scrutiny was on them during the most recent upgrade," the 33-year-old educator said. However, Mr Tan also noted that the current BlueSG fleet was "not exactly the best", with some cars already being "prone to wear and tear". Mr Tan said he uses BlueSG four times a week and has a basic membership which costs S$8 (US$6) a month. "I guess we will just wait for the new system to be out, but I am very curious to find out why they must stop all operations during the transition," he added. He said that he was not too concerned over the pause, "on the condition that they do not charge fees (during the period)", but added that the pause will affect convenience when it comes to travelling. Mr P Ong, who uses BlueSG's free membership plan, said that though he was "quite surprised" by the move, it does not affect him much as he also uses other car-sharing services. The 24-year-old student said that he "used to rely" on BlueSG during peak hours when ride-hailing prices surged. "I also appreciated BlueSG's Point A to Point B rental model, but in practice, I often had to walk quite far just to find a car." "It was also sometimes hard to find parking near my destination," he added. "So, unless I planned ahead, it wasn't very convenient." A BlueSG user who only wanted to be known as Jeremy said that the temporary closure will impact his weekly routine and that he will now have to consider other transport options. "I might have to explore owning a car, but that comes with significant cost considerations, so I'll need to evaluate carefully," the 30-year-old manager said. When asked if he was worried about refunds and bills, he said that he had no major concerns. "The (BlueSG) system has generally been reliable, so I'm not overly worried, though of course, I'll be watching how they handle this transition," he added. "I understand this pause may be part of their obligations or business restructuring, and rather than dragging things out, I think it's better they address the issues head-on." Some users also took to social media to voice their disappointment. Lamenting the move on Reddit, one user said that BlueSG is his primary mode of transport to work because there is no need to worry about parking fees or topping up petrol. Another conveyed his disbelief at the company's lengthy pause for a "platform upgrade", calling the situation "fishy". DISRUPTIONS IN 2023 In December 2023, BlueSG customers faced major disruptions when using its services. This included inaccurate charges and users being unable to find their reserved cars or parking spots, for instance. At the time, BlueSG's former chief executive officer Kelvin Tay said that the glitches were due to "unexpected technical complexities" after systems migration updates.
CTV News
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- CTV News
New carsharing service offers premium vehicles to residents in Ottawa buildings
It's a new spin on carsharing. There is a new service available in the City of Ottawa, catering to 'upscale condo and apartment dwellers.' Automondial Shared Mobility offers 'premium trim,' vehicles available for exclusive use to residents in certain multi-unit residential buildings. 'We believe that just because somebody doesn't need or want to own a vehicle doesn't mean that they don't want to still enjoy the driving experience,' says Bobbi Jaimet, manager of marketing, communications and business development at Automondial Shared Mobility. 'They're new, and we rotate them out of the fleet when they're two or three years old so that people are always getting a really nice premium trim vehicle.' The company has placed vehicles at select apartment and condominium buildings across Ottawa, where residents can pay to access them. Jaimet says Automondial Shared Mobility is currently in eight buildings. 'I take it for usually like 12 hours at a time, and then I kind of have a good plan. So far, it's been amazing,' says carsharing user Lynn O'Connor, who moved into a new building this year across from Tunney's Pasture. 'I recently sold my car because I used to live downtown. It was a lot of expense. So, one of the benefits of coming to this building is that they have a carsharing program.' Automondial Shared Mobility Lynn O'Connor drives a carsharing service vehicle in Ottawa, which is available in her apartment building through Automondial Shared Mobility. (Peter Szperling/CTV News Ottawa) O'Connor says she uses the service once a week. 'I usually go, I run errands, whether it's to Ikea or I go to the east end, my mom lives there. So, I go visit there, or sometimes I go visit friends and it's just been a great alternative. So, I kind of do weekly shopping. I go get all my groceries, I'll go to Costco, I'll do all the things I need to do.' According to Jaimet, the cost to use the vehicle through Automondial Shared Mobility is $17 per hour to a maximum of $62 per day and that includes everything, 'So, gas and charging are included. We have insurance for the vehicle. Winter tire changeover is included. Of course, they're regularly maintained and serviced and cleaned regularly as well.' For some residents, like O'Connor, that can mean substantial savings over owning a car. 'It's usually about, I think, $70 a week,' she says. 'And I don't pay insurance, gas or maintenance, basically. So, it's really just that fee and then I just walk away when I'm done. And it's always been clean; it's always been in really great condition.' O'Connor says she would spend about $700 a month on her car when she owned one and that wouldn't include the cost of parking in her new building. 'We've done this in our building to add an extra amenity that's desirable for new residents. And it gives you flexibility to not have to actually own a vehicle and have all the extra expenses,' says Kathy Foley, experience resident coordinator at Parkdale Collective. 'It's a free amenity for them,' says Jaimet. 'It costs the developer absolutely nothing to have one of our cars at their building. And if you look at that as compared to a lot of other amenities, such as a swimming pool, which can cost, you know, $100,000 a year to maintain a swimming pool, this costs them nothing. So, it's a free amenity for the developer.' According to the company, 'Automondial Shared Mobility is affiliated with a dealership group that has served Ottawa since 1956 (Carling Motors Group), and hence is uniquely positioned to offer buildings high-quality inventory, selection and flexibility. Partners can choose from Volkswagen, Volvo, Mazda, Nissan, Jaguar and Land Rover brands; fuel and electric powertrains; and make changes to fleet size and mix at any time.' Automondial Shared Mobility vehicles are currently placed at select Richcraft, Minto, Homestead, Mastercraft Starwood, Theberge Homes, and Douville, Moffet & Associés Inc. multi-unit residential buildings across Ottawa.
