Bigger crowd expected at Marina Bay Countdown
The New Year Countdown party at Singapore's Marina Bay is expected to draw in a bigger crowd this year, with the completion of key developments in the area and more vantage points on offer.
The Marina Bay Singapore Countdown, touted as the nation's biggest party, has attracted thousands every year and this year, some 300,000 are expected.
But unlike previous years, the Esplanade Bridge will not be available as a vantage point as it will be opened to vehicular traffic. But revellers will have many other vantage points with the opening of new public spaces.
Fun Siew Leng, Group Director of Urban Planning and Design with the Urban Redevelopment Authority, said: "This year is a very special year, it's a culmination of a whole year of events of 2010, because 2010 marks the completion of many major developments around the Marina Bay including the Waterfront Promenade, the Helix and the key developments such as the Marina Bay Sands."
As part of the Countdown sequence, a new element has been added to mark the final 10 seconds of 2010 before a brand new year begins. A set of surge lights will shine rays of bright lights that will converge from opposite ends of Marina Bay, forming a distinct canopy of light shining over the entire Bay. And at the stroke of midnight, there will be fireworks for eight minutes.
The spectacle will be accompanied by an original score by local composer, Iskandar Ismail. Wishes from community leaders and well-known personalities will be shown in the form of video dedications. Revellers will also be treated to free performances and art activities that will begin from 5pm to 1am.
Those at home can watch the countdown live on MediaCorp's Channel 5 from 11pm onwards.
The show will feature homegrown acts like Jill-Marie Thomas - winner of talent show, One Moment of Glory, local rock band Rancour and taiwanese star, David Tao.
With the expected bigger turnout, security is not taken lightly.
Central Police Division Commander Tan Hung Hooi, said: "As this is the first year that the bay area is fully opened, we are deploying about in total 1,400 officers for the event, the number includes police officers, auxiliary police officers, as well as event security officers. Due to the large number of people expected in the area, we advise members of the public to be patient and very importantly to cooperate with the officers. This is to ensure that while they have a good time here, they can also go home in a safe and orderly manner."
Crowd control barricades and directional signs will be put to facilitate safe and orderly crowd dispersal. Bag checks may also be conducted. Women are advised to be vigilant against those who might commit molest in crowded areas. Police said in some cases the culprits have been known to spray foam onto the victim and take the opportunity to commit the act in the process.
And to ensure a smoother flow of traffic, party-goers are urged to take public transport. Some roads near the venue will have lane closures, with full closures only kicking in from 11.30pm on some roads, to facilitate people to the venue before the countdown begins. The footway along Benjamin Sheares Bridge will also be closed to the public from 6pm to 1am due to public safety concerns like overcrowding.
The Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2010/2011 is being jointly presented by Esplanade and the Urban Redevelopment Authority.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday 31 December 2010
Mandai Orchid Garden to move to Kranji
Mandai Orchid Garden to move to Kranji
Come new year, Mandai Orchid Garden as we know it will be no more. Friday is the last day at its current location, before it moves to Kranji by the middle of next year.
The 60-year old garden is one of the oldest in South East Asia. Its owner, Heah Hock Heng said it has some 50,000 orchid plants comprising over 100 varieties.
The Garden's lease expires on Friday and it is moving to make way for the expansion of the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari.
And due to land space constraints at the new place, Mandai Gardens has sold some of its plants to the Shangri-La Group and Singapore Botanical Gardens. It has also offered some orchid plants for sale to the Singapore Island Country Club.
Mr Heah said some exciting ideas are in the works for the new place, but until then, talks are in progress with the new landlord.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Come new year, Mandai Orchid Garden as we know it will be no more. Friday is the last day at its current location, before it moves to Kranji by the middle of next year.
The 60-year old garden is one of the oldest in South East Asia. Its owner, Heah Hock Heng said it has some 50,000 orchid plants comprising over 100 varieties.
The Garden's lease expires on Friday and it is moving to make way for the expansion of the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari.
And due to land space constraints at the new place, Mandai Gardens has sold some of its plants to the Shangri-La Group and Singapore Botanical Gardens. It has also offered some orchid plants for sale to the Singapore Island Country Club.
Mr Heah said some exciting ideas are in the works for the new place, but until then, talks are in progress with the new landlord.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Visitor arrivals up 16.1% in November
Visitor arrivals up 16.1% in November
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said visitor arrivals rose 16.1 per cent to reach 963,000 in November.
This is the highest number of arrivals recorded for the month of November, according to the STB. It was also the 12th consecutive month of record visitor arrivals.
STB said visitors from Indonesia (176,000), Malaysia (100,000), China (94,000), India (73,000) and Australia (64,000) accounted for 53 per cent of the arrivals and 12 out of the top 15 markets registered positive year-on-year growth.
India (+46.3 per cent), Hong Kong (+45.3 per cent), and South Korea (+41.8 per cent) registered highest growth out of the top 15 markets.
Hotel revenue was estimated at S$180 million, up by 17.6 per cent against November 2009.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said visitor arrivals rose 16.1 per cent to reach 963,000 in November.
This is the highest number of arrivals recorded for the month of November, according to the STB. It was also the 12th consecutive month of record visitor arrivals.
STB said visitors from Indonesia (176,000), Malaysia (100,000), China (94,000), India (73,000) and Australia (64,000) accounted for 53 per cent of the arrivals and 12 out of the top 15 markets registered positive year-on-year growth.
India (+46.3 per cent), Hong Kong (+45.3 per cent), and South Korea (+41.8 per cent) registered highest growth out of the top 15 markets.
Hotel revenue was estimated at S$180 million, up by 17.6 per cent against November 2009.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Revellers urged to stay alert at countdown parties
Revellers urged to stay alert at countdown parties
New Year's Eve is a day she will always remember.
At a countdown party held on a Sentosa beach in 2006, Megan (not her real name) was molested when foam was released on the 12,000 party- goers gathered there.
Then 19, she had gone to the party with friends but met some new ones who molested her while they were being lathered with white foam.
She had not expected it as she thought the men were "decent".
"I could not see anything," said the 23-year-old undergraduate. "It happened so fast and there was so much chaos. There was nothing I could do about it."
The event became the first and last outdoor party she attended.
Such incidents are common at crowded festive events. As revellers gear up for tonight's year- end parties, police yesterday advised members of the public to stay vigilant against crime.
Large crowds and heavy traffic are expected at areas such as Orchard Road, Marina Bay, VivoCity and Sentosa.
-News courtesy of Omy-
New Year's Eve is a day she will always remember.
At a countdown party held on a Sentosa beach in 2006, Megan (not her real name) was molested when foam was released on the 12,000 party- goers gathered there.
Then 19, she had gone to the party with friends but met some new ones who molested her while they were being lathered with white foam.
She had not expected it as she thought the men were "decent".
"I could not see anything," said the 23-year-old undergraduate. "It happened so fast and there was so much chaos. There was nothing I could do about it."
The event became the first and last outdoor party she attended.
Such incidents are common at crowded festive events. As revellers gear up for tonight's year- end parties, police yesterday advised members of the public to stay vigilant against crime.
Large crowds and heavy traffic are expected at areas such as Orchard Road, Marina Bay, VivoCity and Sentosa.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Thursday 30 December 2010
ArtScience Museum at MBS to open on Feb 17
ArtScience Museum at MBS to open on Feb 17
The latest attraction at the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort will open on February 17.
The world's first ArtScience Museum with its lotus-inspired rooftop will feature 21 gallery spaces totalling 50,000 square feet.
When ready, the building will showcase exhibits in art and science, media and technology as well as design and architecture.
The Museum's showpiece exhibition is called "ArtScience: A Journey Through Creativity".
In the coming months, Marina Bay Sands will launch a speaker series that will bring together globally renowned thought-leaders in the field of ArtScience.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The latest attraction at the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort will open on February 17.
The world's first ArtScience Museum with its lotus-inspired rooftop will feature 21 gallery spaces totalling 50,000 square feet.
When ready, the building will showcase exhibits in art and science, media and technology as well as design and architecture.
The Museum's showpiece exhibition is called "ArtScience: A Journey Through Creativity".
In the coming months, Marina Bay Sands will launch a speaker series that will bring together globally renowned thought-leaders in the field of ArtScience.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Party-hop this New Year's Eve
Party-hop this New Year's Eve
Marina Bay will be the stage for one of the biggest countdown parties this year, with some 300,000 party revellers expected to turn up to usher in the New Year.
The Marina Bay Singapore Countdown is organised by The Esplanade and the Urban Redevelopment Authority and comprises a ticketed event as well as festive-fringe events held at locations such as the Esplanade.
The countdown will also include a special light display to mark the final 10 seconds of 2010. Rays of bright lights will converge from opposite ends of Marina Bay to form a distinct canopy of light shining over the entire area.
Details of the party were revealed yesterday at a media briefing held at Marina Bay City Gallery in Marina Boulevard.
At the stroke of midnight on Jan 1, an eight-minute-long fireworks display will take centre stage, choreographed to music specially composed by Cultural Medallion winner Iskandar Ismail.
With more vantage points such as the Marina Bay waterfront promenade and the Helix Bridge opened this year, more will be able to take in the fireworks display.
Motorists take heed: Several roads and lanes will closed at different times during the festivities. The footway along Benjamin Sheares Bridge will also be closed to pedestrians from 6pm that day until 1am on New Year's Day.
Public-transport operating hours will be extended to handle the human traffic. The frequency of MRT trains will be increased and their operating hours extended until 2am on Jan 1.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Marina Bay will be the stage for one of the biggest countdown parties this year, with some 300,000 party revellers expected to turn up to usher in the New Year.
The Marina Bay Singapore Countdown is organised by The Esplanade and the Urban Redevelopment Authority and comprises a ticketed event as well as festive-fringe events held at locations such as the Esplanade.
The countdown will also include a special light display to mark the final 10 seconds of 2010. Rays of bright lights will converge from opposite ends of Marina Bay to form a distinct canopy of light shining over the entire area.
Details of the party were revealed yesterday at a media briefing held at Marina Bay City Gallery in Marina Boulevard.
At the stroke of midnight on Jan 1, an eight-minute-long fireworks display will take centre stage, choreographed to music specially composed by Cultural Medallion winner Iskandar Ismail.
With more vantage points such as the Marina Bay waterfront promenade and the Helix Bridge opened this year, more will be able to take in the fireworks display.
Motorists take heed: Several roads and lanes will closed at different times during the festivities. The footway along Benjamin Sheares Bridge will also be closed to pedestrians from 6pm that day until 1am on New Year's Day.
Public-transport operating hours will be extended to handle the human traffic. The frequency of MRT trains will be increased and their operating hours extended until 2am on Jan 1.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Wednesday 29 December 2010
Tourism industry posts sterling performance in 2010
Tourism industry posts sterling performance in 2010
Singapore's tourism industry and the integrated resorts posted sterling performances in 2010, as the world economy emerged from the worst of the recession.
But record numbers aside, the year was also not without some controversy.
At Resorts World Sentosa, a roller-coaster ride was grounded for not being safe enough.
While at Marina Bay Sands, facilities which did not work as they should at its first major event left a client, the Inter-Pacific Bar Association, fuming and led to a series of lawsuits.
Still, visitors kept coming, and so did the money. In Q3, Marina Bay Sands posted receipts of S$631 million while Resorts World reported revenues of over S$732 million.
Aw Kah Peng, Singapore Tourism Board's Chief Executive, said: "The IRs are still not complete yet...there's still plenty of construction going on, so we do expect the two IRs to continue opening different parts of the entire resort in the next year or so. And that will continue to generate excitement."
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also gave the resorts his vote of confidence at the People's Action Party Conference in November.
"One of the reasons that the economy is doing well is because the IRs have been a success, literally millions of tourists are coming, visiting the IRs and spending time in Singapore and we are expecting 12 million tourists in Singapore, which is going to be a record," PM Lee said.
However, the IRs' success have also increased concerns over gambling problems. Beyond reports of eye-popping multi-million dollar losses at the tables, there were many more gamblers whose families bore the sting of their addiction. By September, authorities had received over 2,500 applications for self-exclusion orders, of which 9 in 10 were made after the casinos opened. Another 194 Family Exclusion Orders were issued. Amid some criticism that the approval process took too long, authorities are looking at how to speed things up.
Also in September, bus services running to the IRs from the city centre and the heartlands were scrapped over worries that they made gambling too easy.
On the aviation front, headlines were made in November when a Qantas A380 plane, carrying over 450 people and bound for Sydney, made an emergency landing at Changi Airport after a mid-air engine failure.
A day later, another Qantas plane - this time a Boeing 747 - was forced to turn around after an engine caught fire minutes after take-off.
The incident prompted Singapore Airlines to inspect its own fleet of 11 A380s.
But while it will replace the engines of three planes following recommendations by engine manufacturer Rolls Royce, it will stick by its order for more of the planes. SIA added that its A380s are put through an inspection programme to ensure safe operations.
Julius Yeo, Consultant for Aerospace and Defence Practice at Frost and Sullivan, said: "The main impetus for them to push for the orders with the A380 is purely business, because the SQ is a legacy airlines, and legacy airlines they are looking for international flights outside of Singapore. A380 being the biggest plane, they have the capacity for SIA to enhance their growth internationally."
On the whole, analysts said 2011 will be an interesting year for tourism.
"It's quite a promising I think segment at this juncture. It is extremely competitive because every other country around us are also trying to boost hospitality, they have aggressively stepped up advertising campaigns as well but I think as long as the region attracts more visitors - we will see them in Singapore, be it for business or just for fun," said Song Seng Wun, a regional economist with CIMB.
The improving economy also spurred a 10-month string of record-breaking visitor arrival numbers, beginning from December 2009.
The Singapore Tourism Board expects visitor arrivals to hit a record 12 million this year, with tourism receipts of up to S$18.5 billion.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore's tourism industry and the integrated resorts posted sterling performances in 2010, as the world economy emerged from the worst of the recession.
But record numbers aside, the year was also not without some controversy.
At Resorts World Sentosa, a roller-coaster ride was grounded for not being safe enough.
While at Marina Bay Sands, facilities which did not work as they should at its first major event left a client, the Inter-Pacific Bar Association, fuming and led to a series of lawsuits.
Still, visitors kept coming, and so did the money. In Q3, Marina Bay Sands posted receipts of S$631 million while Resorts World reported revenues of over S$732 million.
Aw Kah Peng, Singapore Tourism Board's Chief Executive, said: "The IRs are still not complete yet...there's still plenty of construction going on, so we do expect the two IRs to continue opening different parts of the entire resort in the next year or so. And that will continue to generate excitement."
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also gave the resorts his vote of confidence at the People's Action Party Conference in November.
"One of the reasons that the economy is doing well is because the IRs have been a success, literally millions of tourists are coming, visiting the IRs and spending time in Singapore and we are expecting 12 million tourists in Singapore, which is going to be a record," PM Lee said.
However, the IRs' success have also increased concerns over gambling problems. Beyond reports of eye-popping multi-million dollar losses at the tables, there were many more gamblers whose families bore the sting of their addiction. By September, authorities had received over 2,500 applications for self-exclusion orders, of which 9 in 10 were made after the casinos opened. Another 194 Family Exclusion Orders were issued. Amid some criticism that the approval process took too long, authorities are looking at how to speed things up.
Also in September, bus services running to the IRs from the city centre and the heartlands were scrapped over worries that they made gambling too easy.
On the aviation front, headlines were made in November when a Qantas A380 plane, carrying over 450 people and bound for Sydney, made an emergency landing at Changi Airport after a mid-air engine failure.
A day later, another Qantas plane - this time a Boeing 747 - was forced to turn around after an engine caught fire minutes after take-off.
The incident prompted Singapore Airlines to inspect its own fleet of 11 A380s.
But while it will replace the engines of three planes following recommendations by engine manufacturer Rolls Royce, it will stick by its order for more of the planes. SIA added that its A380s are put through an inspection programme to ensure safe operations.
Julius Yeo, Consultant for Aerospace and Defence Practice at Frost and Sullivan, said: "The main impetus for them to push for the orders with the A380 is purely business, because the SQ is a legacy airlines, and legacy airlines they are looking for international flights outside of Singapore. A380 being the biggest plane, they have the capacity for SIA to enhance their growth internationally."
On the whole, analysts said 2011 will be an interesting year for tourism.
"It's quite a promising I think segment at this juncture. It is extremely competitive because every other country around us are also trying to boost hospitality, they have aggressively stepped up advertising campaigns as well but I think as long as the region attracts more visitors - we will see them in Singapore, be it for business or just for fun," said Song Seng Wun, a regional economist with CIMB.
The improving economy also spurred a 10-month string of record-breaking visitor arrival numbers, beginning from December 2009.
The Singapore Tourism Board expects visitor arrivals to hit a record 12 million this year, with tourism receipts of up to S$18.5 billion.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tuesday 28 December 2010
Break casino house rules? Prepare to be banned
Break casino house rules? Prepare to be banned
PLAY nice at the casino or you could be banned from entering even without an exclusion order.
Casinos here have been declaring patrons who breach house rules persona non grata Latin for "an unwelcome person" and bar them from entry.
These patrons will be given a notice informing them that they are barred from the premises.
Unlike exclusion orders such as the voluntary and family exclusions that are implemented by the authorities, casinos can decide on their own who they will allow on their premises.
Indeed, any business that owns private property has the right to deny a customer entry and they usually do so when the guest is a threat to the business or other patrons.
Companies here with customer blacklists include nightspots, country clubs, airline carriers and even supermarkets. Patrons who ignore the ban can be arrested for trespassing.
Earlier this month, construction worker Liu Shimeng was fined $3,000 for criminal trespass. He entered the Marina Bay Sands casino after it had declared him persona non grata.
The 32-year-old Chinese national was barred from the casino about 21/2 months ago after he was convicted of theft from the casino.
-News courtesy of Omy-
PLAY nice at the casino or you could be banned from entering even without an exclusion order.
Casinos here have been declaring patrons who breach house rules persona non grata Latin for "an unwelcome person" and bar them from entry.
These patrons will be given a notice informing them that they are barred from the premises.
Unlike exclusion orders such as the voluntary and family exclusions that are implemented by the authorities, casinos can decide on their own who they will allow on their premises.
Indeed, any business that owns private property has the right to deny a customer entry and they usually do so when the guest is a threat to the business or other patrons.
Companies here with customer blacklists include nightspots, country clubs, airline carriers and even supermarkets. Patrons who ignore the ban can be arrested for trespassing.
Earlier this month, construction worker Liu Shimeng was fined $3,000 for criminal trespass. He entered the Marina Bay Sands casino after it had declared him persona non grata.
The 32-year-old Chinese national was barred from the casino about 21/2 months ago after he was convicted of theft from the casino.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Saturday 25 December 2010
Singapore Radio Frequencies
Sinar FM 87.8
One FM 88.1
883 Jia FM 88.3
BBC World 88.9
Hot FM 90.1
Gold 90 FM 90.5
Radio 913 FM 91.3
Symphony FM 92.4
Red FM 92.8
Yes 93.3
938Live 93.8
Warna 94.2
Lite FM 94.6
Class 95
My FM 95.4
Capitol Radio 95.8
Expat FM 96.3
Oli 96.8
Love 97.2
Mix FM 97.6
Power 98.0
987FM 98.7
Hitz FM 99.1
Lush 99.5
988 99.9
Radio 1003 FM 100.3
Minnal 101.1
Suria FM 101.4
Zoo FM 101.6
Johor FM 101.9
Kei FM 102.3
Fly FM 102.5
Traxx FM 102.9
Xfresh FM 103.3
THR 103.7
Best 104 FM 104.1
Era FM 104.5
Ai FM 104.9
Sing FM 105.5
Muzik FM 105.7
IKIM FM 106.2
Era Baru FM 106.5
Klasik Nasional FM 106.7
FMJB 107.5
One FM 88.1
883 Jia FM 88.3
BBC World 88.9
Hot FM 90.1
Gold 90 FM 90.5
Radio 913 FM 91.3
Symphony FM 92.4
Red FM 92.8
Yes 93.3
938Live 93.8
Warna 94.2
Lite FM 94.6
Class 95
My FM 95.4
Capitol Radio 95.8
Expat FM 96.3
Oli 96.8
Love 97.2
Mix FM 97.6
Power 98.0
987FM 98.7
Hitz FM 99.1
Lush 99.5
988 99.9
Radio 1003 FM 100.3
Minnal 101.1
Suria FM 101.4
Zoo FM 101.6
Johor FM 101.9
Kei FM 102.3
Fly FM 102.5
Traxx FM 102.9
Xfresh FM 103.3
THR 103.7
Best 104 FM 104.1
Era FM 104.5
Ai FM 104.9
Sing FM 105.5
Muzik FM 105.7
IKIM FM 106.2
Era Baru FM 106.5
Klasik Nasional FM 106.7
FMJB 107.5
SIA: no major delays between S'pore and Paris
SIA says no major delays between S'pore and Paris
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said flight SQ333 from Paris to Singapore was delayed by an hour.
When contacted by Channel NewsAsia, SIA said the flight was preparing to take off from Charles de Gaulle airport as of 7.15pm Singapore time.
Thousands of travellers have been left stranded in the French capital, as half the flights at Charles de Gaulle airport were cancelled a day before Christmas, after snow storms continued to hit parts of Western Europe.
Meantime, SIA said it has no plans to cancel or delay its daily flight, SQ334, from Singapore to Paris on Friday evening.
The flight is scheduled to depart at 11.55pm.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said flight SQ333 from Paris to Singapore was delayed by an hour.
When contacted by Channel NewsAsia, SIA said the flight was preparing to take off from Charles de Gaulle airport as of 7.15pm Singapore time.
Thousands of travellers have been left stranded in the French capital, as half the flights at Charles de Gaulle airport were cancelled a day before Christmas, after snow storms continued to hit parts of Western Europe.
Meantime, SIA said it has no plans to cancel or delay its daily flight, SQ334, from Singapore to Paris on Friday evening.
The flight is scheduled to depart at 11.55pm.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday 24 December 2010
New waterfront show at Resorts World Sentosa
New waterfront show at Resorts World Sentosa
Resorts World Sentosa will launch a new show - the Crane Dance - this Saturday.
The waterfront show involves two cranes, each 30-metre high or as tall as a 10-storey building.
It is the world's tallest dancing animatronics show, and because of its scale, it will be visible even from across the waterfront at VivoCity.
The show will involve a slew of digital art, LED displays, light and water effects, pyrotechnics as well as an original score.
The cranes are made almost entirely of steel and weigh some 80 tonnes each.
But that does not make them any less dexterous and graceful when they mimic the birds' courtship dance ritual in the wild.
Developed over 36 months, the show was created by four-time Emmy Award winner Jeremy Railton, who has designed many live concert stages for international performers including the late Michael Jackson, Cher, Barbara Streisand and Diana Ross.
"I wanted to ensure that not only was it going to be an iconic headliner, it had to resonate with Asian influences, yet touching the hearts of an international audience through a simple story about love," Mr Railton said.
The free nightly spectacle, located at the waterfront of Resorts World, debuts on Christmas Day.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Resorts World Sentosa will launch a new show - the Crane Dance - this Saturday.
The waterfront show involves two cranes, each 30-metre high or as tall as a 10-storey building.
It is the world's tallest dancing animatronics show, and because of its scale, it will be visible even from across the waterfront at VivoCity.
The show will involve a slew of digital art, LED displays, light and water effects, pyrotechnics as well as an original score.
The cranes are made almost entirely of steel and weigh some 80 tonnes each.
But that does not make them any less dexterous and graceful when they mimic the birds' courtship dance ritual in the wild.
Developed over 36 months, the show was created by four-time Emmy Award winner Jeremy Railton, who has designed many live concert stages for international performers including the late Michael Jackson, Cher, Barbara Streisand and Diana Ross.
"I wanted to ensure that not only was it going to be an iconic headliner, it had to resonate with Asian influences, yet touching the hearts of an international audience through a simple story about love," Mr Railton said.
The free nightly spectacle, located at the waterfront of Resorts World, debuts on Christmas Day.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wednesday 22 December 2010
Flight disruptions continue into 4th day
Flight disruptions continue into 4th day
Flight disruptions continued into its fourth day as some flights from Singapore to London's Heathrow Airport continued to be delayed or cancelled on Tuesday due to the bad weather.
But the situation has eased somewhat in Singapore.
Singapore Airlines said it has mostly cleared the backlog of passengers leaving Singapore for London.
It said the minority of passengers still here have been provided with accommodation and meals.
But British Airways said it will not be operating any flights from Singapore to London on Tuesday.
One Qantas flight left Singapore on Tuesday, while two services are expected to arrive in Singapore from London on Tuesday night.
Changi Airport Group said nine European flights were delayed as at 6pm - all but one being arrivals from Heathrow.
As Europe continues to struggle with its icy weather, more flights have been disrupted. More than 22,000 flights were disrupted across Europe on Monday.
At London's Heathrow Airport, service is still limited, with the airport operating from one of its two runways.
Terry O'Connor, CEO of furniture and electronics giant COURTS, is on his way back to Singapore via Manchester and Munich, after a long wait at Heathrow.
He sent Channel NewsAsia a text message describing the situation.
He said: "Heathrow and Gatwick are more or less at a standstill, but Manchester is coping... temperatures range from minus six to minus 18 across the UK. I had a rail trip cancelled yesterday and had to find an alternative route that made a 5-hour round trip a total of nine hours."
R Rajendren, a Singaporean in London, was on his way back to visit his father-in-law who is sick. His AirAsia flight from London's Stansted Airport to Kuala Lumpur was diverted to Birmingham.
"All the flights to Europe ... were cancelled, so the whole airport was filled, with every square inch where there was space, there were people sleeping. So after the plane got diverted to Birmingham, we were stuck there, and they didn't tell us if it was gonna happen, or not gonna happen."
Mr Rajendren finally reached Singapore on Tuesday afternoon.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Flight disruptions continued into its fourth day as some flights from Singapore to London's Heathrow Airport continued to be delayed or cancelled on Tuesday due to the bad weather.
But the situation has eased somewhat in Singapore.
Singapore Airlines said it has mostly cleared the backlog of passengers leaving Singapore for London.
It said the minority of passengers still here have been provided with accommodation and meals.
But British Airways said it will not be operating any flights from Singapore to London on Tuesday.
One Qantas flight left Singapore on Tuesday, while two services are expected to arrive in Singapore from London on Tuesday night.
Changi Airport Group said nine European flights were delayed as at 6pm - all but one being arrivals from Heathrow.
As Europe continues to struggle with its icy weather, more flights have been disrupted. More than 22,000 flights were disrupted across Europe on Monday.
At London's Heathrow Airport, service is still limited, with the airport operating from one of its two runways.
Terry O'Connor, CEO of furniture and electronics giant COURTS, is on his way back to Singapore via Manchester and Munich, after a long wait at Heathrow.
He sent Channel NewsAsia a text message describing the situation.
He said: "Heathrow and Gatwick are more or less at a standstill, but Manchester is coping... temperatures range from minus six to minus 18 across the UK. I had a rail trip cancelled yesterday and had to find an alternative route that made a 5-hour round trip a total of nine hours."
R Rajendren, a Singaporean in London, was on his way back to visit his father-in-law who is sick. His AirAsia flight from London's Stansted Airport to Kuala Lumpur was diverted to Birmingham.
"All the flights to Europe ... were cancelled, so the whole airport was filled, with every square inch where there was space, there were people sleeping. So after the plane got diverted to Birmingham, we were stuck there, and they didn't tell us if it was gonna happen, or not gonna happen."
Mr Rajendren finally reached Singapore on Tuesday afternoon.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
New inbound tourism pass launched
New inbound tourism pass launched
A new inbound tourism pass was launched on Monday.
The See Singapore Attractions Pass will create a more personalised experience for visitors to Singapore.
The pass is created by iVenture Card, provider of tourism, lifestyle and entertainment experiences.
It follows the successes of attractions passes pioneered in popular destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, Tasmania, Brisbane and Vancouver.
Its convenience and flexibility allows for easy itinerary planning.
Travellers can choose from a smartcard one-day pass up to a five-day pass to experience the best that Singapore has to offer.
Thibault Paquin, managing director, iVenture Card Asia, said: "There's always something for you to do. You can build your own itinerary, your own experience based on your liking, your time.
"If you're a couple on a honeymoon, or if you're an adventure lover, there's always something to do. We have over 20 entries on the pass, and we classify them by theme. So this card we believe is the best way to see Singapore."
The Pass will be on sale from January 5 next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
A new inbound tourism pass was launched on Monday.
The See Singapore Attractions Pass will create a more personalised experience for visitors to Singapore.
The pass is created by iVenture Card, provider of tourism, lifestyle and entertainment experiences.
It follows the successes of attractions passes pioneered in popular destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, Tasmania, Brisbane and Vancouver.
Its convenience and flexibility allows for easy itinerary planning.
Travellers can choose from a smartcard one-day pass up to a five-day pass to experience the best that Singapore has to offer.
Thibault Paquin, managing director, iVenture Card Asia, said: "There's always something for you to do. You can build your own itinerary, your own experience based on your liking, your time.
"If you're a couple on a honeymoon, or if you're an adventure lover, there's always something to do. We have over 20 entries on the pass, and we classify them by theme. So this card we believe is the best way to see Singapore."
The Pass will be on sale from January 5 next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
We need your feedback!
We need your feedback about our blog! Your feedback is our motivation. All feedback and suggestions are welcome.
Checkpoint congestion ahead
Checkpoint congestion ahead
Be prepared for heavy traffic at the two land checkpoints during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said traffic volume at the two land checkpoints is expected to be high for the Christmas period, from December 24 to December 27.
For the New Year period, traffic build-up is also expected from December 31 and the high traffic volume through the checkpoints is expected to last till January 3, 2011.
ICA said travellers using the land checkpoints during these periods can expect delays.
To avoid the surge of people and vehicles seeking clearance at the land checkpoints, ICA is advising travellers to adjust their travel plans and avoid the peak periods altogether.
It said with enhanced security checks, traffic build-up is inevitable, particularly when large number of travellers want to use the checkpoints at the same time.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Be prepared for heavy traffic at the two land checkpoints during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said traffic volume at the two land checkpoints is expected to be high for the Christmas period, from December 24 to December 27.
For the New Year period, traffic build-up is also expected from December 31 and the high traffic volume through the checkpoints is expected to last till January 3, 2011.
ICA said travellers using the land checkpoints during these periods can expect delays.
To avoid the surge of people and vehicles seeking clearance at the land checkpoints, ICA is advising travellers to adjust their travel plans and avoid the peak periods altogether.
It said with enhanced security checks, traffic build-up is inevitable, particularly when large number of travellers want to use the checkpoints at the same time.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Battlestar Galactica enters final testing stage
Battlestar Galactica enters final testing stage
The world's tallest duelling roller coaster, the Battlestar Galactica, is slated to re-open in Singapore by the first half of 2011.
The ride is undergoing final checks, which involves day-time stress-testing.
It has been nine long months since its shutdown. But theme park junkies can soon look forward to hurtling down speeds of 90 kilometres per hour at zero gravity force.
Battlestar Galactica, one of the main attractions at Universal Studios Singapore, was shut down just weeks after its opening this year.
On March 25 during a routine test, a failure was detected on one of the seats. No one was on the ride at the time.
But as a precaution, Universal Studios carried out comprehensive tests - including filling cars with dummies to simulate human passenger weight.
Universal Studios Singapore says hot day and cooler night temperatures affect - very differently - the expansion and contraction of metal, composite and rubber components of a ride.
These temperature swings can change the wear rates and friction levels of components. These are factors which affect operation and maintenance schedules.
The fault detected was attributed to fatigue cracks in a welded component of the seat's support structure - the part which attaches the coaster's seat to its frame.
As the fault was inherent to the design, the flaw was not detected during the computer-generated design stage of the ride. To rectify the problem, every single component of the ride has been taken apart, examined and then re-assembled.
All welded components for the seats have since been replaced with new machined parts.
Guests were excited over the prospect of the ride's re-opening.
"Can go and have fun. Will bring my girlfriend ... here too," one said.
"They'll be more willing to come because a lot of them ... don't want to come because they say the rides are not fully open," another said.
A third added: "Maybe we're gonna come back next year because my daughter likes to ride on the roller coaster."
After the end-stage testing is completed, authorities will still have to re-certify the ride before it re-opens next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The world's tallest duelling roller coaster, the Battlestar Galactica, is slated to re-open in Singapore by the first half of 2011.
The ride is undergoing final checks, which involves day-time stress-testing.
It has been nine long months since its shutdown. But theme park junkies can soon look forward to hurtling down speeds of 90 kilometres per hour at zero gravity force.
Battlestar Galactica, one of the main attractions at Universal Studios Singapore, was shut down just weeks after its opening this year.
On March 25 during a routine test, a failure was detected on one of the seats. No one was on the ride at the time.
But as a precaution, Universal Studios carried out comprehensive tests - including filling cars with dummies to simulate human passenger weight.
Universal Studios Singapore says hot day and cooler night temperatures affect - very differently - the expansion and contraction of metal, composite and rubber components of a ride.
These temperature swings can change the wear rates and friction levels of components. These are factors which affect operation and maintenance schedules.
The fault detected was attributed to fatigue cracks in a welded component of the seat's support structure - the part which attaches the coaster's seat to its frame.
As the fault was inherent to the design, the flaw was not detected during the computer-generated design stage of the ride. To rectify the problem, every single component of the ride has been taken apart, examined and then re-assembled.
All welded components for the seats have since been replaced with new machined parts.
Guests were excited over the prospect of the ride's re-opening.
"Can go and have fun. Will bring my girlfriend ... here too," one said.
"They'll be more willing to come because a lot of them ... don't want to come because they say the rides are not fully open," another said.
A third added: "Maybe we're gonna come back next year because my daughter likes to ride on the roller coaster."
After the end-stage testing is completed, authorities will still have to re-certify the ride before it re-opens next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Monday 20 December 2010
River Hongbao to be held from Feb 1-13
River Hongbao to be held from Feb 1-13
The annual Lunar New Year festival, River Hongbao, will be celebrating its 25th anniversary in a big way next year, from February 1 to 13.
Held at The Float@Marina Bay, the event will feature giant lanterns in the form of Singapore landmarks like the Kuan Imm Thong Hood Cho Temple and the Pinnacle@Duxton.
There will also be a Marina Barrage lantern made out of recycled plastic bottles.
Each lantern will be about two to three metres tall.
The event will also have a special Nanjing Pavilion featuring the Chinese city's handicrafts and delicacies.
This follows a memorandum of understanding that was signed with the Nanjing City Government to promote cultural exchange through the 13-day event.
Troupes from Nanjing and Guangdong will also put up cultural performances.
A national integration night will also encourage residents and new immigrants to interact with one another.
Other highlights will include a calligraphy competition and the screening of a short film, "The Reunion Dinner", directed by local talent Anthony Chen.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The annual Lunar New Year festival, River Hongbao, will be celebrating its 25th anniversary in a big way next year, from February 1 to 13.
Held at The Float@Marina Bay, the event will feature giant lanterns in the form of Singapore landmarks like the Kuan Imm Thong Hood Cho Temple and the Pinnacle@Duxton.
There will also be a Marina Barrage lantern made out of recycled plastic bottles.
Each lantern will be about two to three metres tall.
The event will also have a special Nanjing Pavilion featuring the Chinese city's handicrafts and delicacies.
This follows a memorandum of understanding that was signed with the Nanjing City Government to promote cultural exchange through the 13-day event.
Troupes from Nanjing and Guangdong will also put up cultural performances.
A national integration night will also encourage residents and new immigrants to interact with one another.
Other highlights will include a calligraphy competition and the screening of a short film, "The Reunion Dinner", directed by local talent Anthony Chen.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore IRs mark their first Christmas
Singapore IRs mark their first Christmas
Singapore's two integrated resorts mark their first Christmas this year, and they are pulling out all the stops to provide guests with a full range of activities and festive cheer.
Skating superstar Michelle Kwan took to the arena in a charming four-minute performance on Saturday, much to the delight of guests at Marina Bay Sands.
Hundreds had turned up to catch a glimpse of the ice queen, whose performance marked the opening of the integrated resort's new indoor skating rink.
Members of the Singapore Ice Skating Association also entertained the crowds with their dance routine on the synthetic ice.
The resort's spokesperson said the resort is seeing "high demand" during the holiday season and bookings for the Christmas period had started as early as August.
Marina Bay Sands did not give figures for its occupancy rate.
At Resorts World Sentosa, guests are treated to the sight of Singapore's tallest Christmas tree, standing at 11 storeys high.
Robin Goh, Assistant Director for Communications at Resorts World Sentosa, said: "We do see an increasing trend of locals having what is known as 'stay-cations' here at Resorts World Sentosa. They stay over the weekend and sometimes a little longer."
The resort said it sees a 95 per cent occupancy rate during the weekends and receives many guests from the region.
One visitor said: "It is close to Penang, that is why we came here. And Universal Studios is new to us as well."
Another commented: "I heard a lot about it and had seen the brochures. It is amazing and worth it!"
The resort added that passes for its key attraction, Universal Studios, are sold out on most days.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore's two integrated resorts mark their first Christmas this year, and they are pulling out all the stops to provide guests with a full range of activities and festive cheer.
Skating superstar Michelle Kwan took to the arena in a charming four-minute performance on Saturday, much to the delight of guests at Marina Bay Sands.
Hundreds had turned up to catch a glimpse of the ice queen, whose performance marked the opening of the integrated resort's new indoor skating rink.
Members of the Singapore Ice Skating Association also entertained the crowds with their dance routine on the synthetic ice.
The resort's spokesperson said the resort is seeing "high demand" during the holiday season and bookings for the Christmas period had started as early as August.
Marina Bay Sands did not give figures for its occupancy rate.
At Resorts World Sentosa, guests are treated to the sight of Singapore's tallest Christmas tree, standing at 11 storeys high.
Robin Goh, Assistant Director for Communications at Resorts World Sentosa, said: "We do see an increasing trend of locals having what is known as 'stay-cations' here at Resorts World Sentosa. They stay over the weekend and sometimes a little longer."
The resort said it sees a 95 per cent occupancy rate during the weekends and receives many guests from the region.
One visitor said: "It is close to Penang, that is why we came here. And Universal Studios is new to us as well."
Another commented: "I heard a lot about it and had seen the brochures. It is amazing and worth it!"
The resort added that passes for its key attraction, Universal Studios, are sold out on most days.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
More London flights cancelled or delayed
More London flights cancelled or delayed
The arctic conditions enveloping Britain sparked fresh flight delays and cancellations for a third day on Monday.
Four flights from Singapore to London have either been cancelled or delayed as at 9.30am due to the heavy snow and thick ice at Heathrow Airport.
Changi Airport Group said two of them are by Singapore Airlines and one each by Qantas Airways and British Airways.
Five flights from London to Singapore have also either been cancelled or delayed - three by SIA and two by British Airways.
SQ317 managed to fly out of Heathrow Airport and landed at Changi Airport at 10.45am on Monday morning. It was the first London to Singapore flight to land on Monday, after Sunday's flights cancellation and one of only seven flights to leave London.
Passengers on board the flight described the situation at Heathrow.
"It's just absolute chaos actually," said a passenger. "The rest of the people that are still at the airport, I'm afraid they'll have to start their journey tomorrow, because the airport is closed."
"We heard reports on the television that we were being given blankets and food and everything, but they said we couldn't have blankets and we couldn't have food because they couldn't take it off the aircraft," said another.
Some passengers from Sunday's aborted flight SQ318 were also at the airport.
Their flight took off on Sunday morning only for the plane to turn around two hours later, while they were being served lunch over the Indian Ocean.
"To see the flight monitor change where the aircraft actually turned around and was heading back to Singapore, and the captain said that we have to go back because of the weather conditions in the UK," said one of the passengers.
Accommodations were arranged for them for the night, but their travel plans remain unknown.
SIA said all flights to London on Monday remain provisional.
With forecasters predicting this month could be the coldest December for a century, Britain braced for further problems today with up to 20 centimetres of snow expected in some places.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The arctic conditions enveloping Britain sparked fresh flight delays and cancellations for a third day on Monday.
Four flights from Singapore to London have either been cancelled or delayed as at 9.30am due to the heavy snow and thick ice at Heathrow Airport.
Changi Airport Group said two of them are by Singapore Airlines and one each by Qantas Airways and British Airways.
Five flights from London to Singapore have also either been cancelled or delayed - three by SIA and two by British Airways.
SQ317 managed to fly out of Heathrow Airport and landed at Changi Airport at 10.45am on Monday morning. It was the first London to Singapore flight to land on Monday, after Sunday's flights cancellation and one of only seven flights to leave London.
Passengers on board the flight described the situation at Heathrow.
"It's just absolute chaos actually," said a passenger. "The rest of the people that are still at the airport, I'm afraid they'll have to start their journey tomorrow, because the airport is closed."
"We heard reports on the television that we were being given blankets and food and everything, but they said we couldn't have blankets and we couldn't have food because they couldn't take it off the aircraft," said another.
Some passengers from Sunday's aborted flight SQ318 were also at the airport.
Their flight took off on Sunday morning only for the plane to turn around two hours later, while they were being served lunch over the Indian Ocean.
"To see the flight monitor change where the aircraft actually turned around and was heading back to Singapore, and the captain said that we have to go back because of the weather conditions in the UK," said one of the passengers.
Accommodations were arranged for them for the night, but their travel plans remain unknown.
SIA said all flights to London on Monday remain provisional.
With forecasters predicting this month could be the coldest December for a century, Britain braced for further problems today with up to 20 centimetres of snow expected in some places.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Saturday 18 December 2010
Wetter days ahead, says NEA
Wetter days ahead, says NEA
The National Environment Agency (NEA) said Singapore is expected to experience wetter weather conditions over the next few days.
This is due to a steady strengthening of winds over the South China Sea.
NEA said periods of widespread moderate to heavy rain and occasionally windy conditions are expected.
The agency advises the public to obtain the latest weather reports, including heavy rain warnings, from its website or by calling its weather forecast hotline at 6542 7788 or tuning in to radio broadcasts.
Singapore has been experiencing northeast monsoon conditions since late November.
In the past week, short-duration showers affected Singapore mostly in the afternoon and evening.
Rainfall for the first fortnight of December was below average.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The National Environment Agency (NEA) said Singapore is expected to experience wetter weather conditions over the next few days.
This is due to a steady strengthening of winds over the South China Sea.
NEA said periods of widespread moderate to heavy rain and occasionally windy conditions are expected.
The agency advises the public to obtain the latest weather reports, including heavy rain warnings, from its website or by calling its weather forecast hotline at 6542 7788 or tuning in to radio broadcasts.
Singapore has been experiencing northeast monsoon conditions since late November.
In the past week, short-duration showers affected Singapore mostly in the afternoon and evening.
Rainfall for the first fortnight of December was below average.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
2010 a great year for Singapore's tourism industry
2010 a great year for Singapore's tourism industry
It has been a great year for tourism in Singapore, with more visitors and more high-spending ones.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) estimates that tourist arrivals this year will grow around 25 per cent from 2009 to hit about 12 million visitors.
At the same time, it expects tourism receipts to grow almost 50 per cent on-year, reaching as much as S$18.5 billion.
STB is optimistic about the industry's prospects going into the new year.
It said the higher growth in receipts compared with arrivals means the average visitor here is spending more.
These include Malaysian tourists who are arriving here by the busloads. And some 3,000 of them reportedly head to the two integrated resorts (IRs) daily - to gamble and to shop.
But Malaysian politicians such as Johor's Datuk Tee Siew Kiong have raised concerns over the outflow of money from their country, estimating that Malaysians spent S$3 million per day on gaming in Singapore.
Tan Khee Giap, an economist and associate professor at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, said: "When they come to Singapore, they look at the map, they will see the bigger countries surrounding us, so they are directly benefiting from the overspilling effect of our IR-driven tourism.
"So if they look at the long term, instead of complaining those tourists come into Singapore, they should get themselves prepared for more tourists."
While Singapore's IRs have been a huge success, some industry watchers said the Republic must be on guard from increasing competition for gaming dollars in the region.
Song Seng Wun, regional economist at CIMB said: "Take Macau as an example. When they first started out, it was just casinos and more casinos. More recently, they are also adopting an integrated resort type of approach towards the gaming industry, mainly because they have seen how the two IRs here have turned out, and how well it seems to be working at this juncture."
Overall, though, the outlook for Singapore IRs is strong, with casino revenues expected to roughly double to US$5.5 billion next year, according to consultants PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Professor Tan said: "The tourism hub is the mother of all hubs. Because you have a tourism hub, you can have financial services, health care services, education services...In the past, we lacked the critical mass and all these could not take place..."
The two integrated resorts are expected to be fully operational next year.
STB said that besides the IRs, there are also other drivers for growth in the tourism industry next year.
Specifically, it points out that the number of business meetings had soared around the Singapore F1 Grand Prix this year.
Aw Kah Peng, chief executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, said: "Singapore is already a base for many companies who want to do business in Asia but who are looking for a base to put their business, and because we are already a base for businesses like banks, manufacturing companies and consumer-related companies, there is already a natural pool of potential corporate clients who can then use the F1 platform. "
STB said that looking ahead, it expects to tap on technology to boost tourism.
One example is the YourSingapore website which has seen 5 million hits this year, three times more than its previous tourist-targeted website.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
It has been a great year for tourism in Singapore, with more visitors and more high-spending ones.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) estimates that tourist arrivals this year will grow around 25 per cent from 2009 to hit about 12 million visitors.
At the same time, it expects tourism receipts to grow almost 50 per cent on-year, reaching as much as S$18.5 billion.
STB is optimistic about the industry's prospects going into the new year.
It said the higher growth in receipts compared with arrivals means the average visitor here is spending more.
These include Malaysian tourists who are arriving here by the busloads. And some 3,000 of them reportedly head to the two integrated resorts (IRs) daily - to gamble and to shop.
But Malaysian politicians such as Johor's Datuk Tee Siew Kiong have raised concerns over the outflow of money from their country, estimating that Malaysians spent S$3 million per day on gaming in Singapore.
Tan Khee Giap, an economist and associate professor at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, said: "When they come to Singapore, they look at the map, they will see the bigger countries surrounding us, so they are directly benefiting from the overspilling effect of our IR-driven tourism.
"So if they look at the long term, instead of complaining those tourists come into Singapore, they should get themselves prepared for more tourists."
While Singapore's IRs have been a huge success, some industry watchers said the Republic must be on guard from increasing competition for gaming dollars in the region.
Song Seng Wun, regional economist at CIMB said: "Take Macau as an example. When they first started out, it was just casinos and more casinos. More recently, they are also adopting an integrated resort type of approach towards the gaming industry, mainly because they have seen how the two IRs here have turned out, and how well it seems to be working at this juncture."
Overall, though, the outlook for Singapore IRs is strong, with casino revenues expected to roughly double to US$5.5 billion next year, according to consultants PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Professor Tan said: "The tourism hub is the mother of all hubs. Because you have a tourism hub, you can have financial services, health care services, education services...In the past, we lacked the critical mass and all these could not take place..."
The two integrated resorts are expected to be fully operational next year.
STB said that besides the IRs, there are also other drivers for growth in the tourism industry next year.
Specifically, it points out that the number of business meetings had soared around the Singapore F1 Grand Prix this year.
Aw Kah Peng, chief executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, said: "Singapore is already a base for many companies who want to do business in Asia but who are looking for a base to put their business, and because we are already a base for businesses like banks, manufacturing companies and consumer-related companies, there is already a natural pool of potential corporate clients who can then use the F1 platform. "
STB said that looking ahead, it expects to tap on technology to boost tourism.
One example is the YourSingapore website which has seen 5 million hits this year, three times more than its previous tourist-targeted website.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Indian Muslim Heritage Centre to open next year
Singapore's first Indian Muslim Heritage Centre to open next year
Singapore will have its first Indian Muslim Heritage Centre soon. It will be situated within the Nagore Dargah monument along Telok Ayer Street, and will open in the middle of next year.
Built nearly 180 years ago by Indian traders, the Nagore Dargah was gazetted as a national monument in 1974.
Legend has it that traders who set sail for Penang and Singapore from the original Nagore Dargah in coastal Tamil Nadu built the monument to remind them of home.
The Dargah, which is still visited for thanksgiving by Indian Muslims, went through a S$900,000 renovation two years ago.
The Indian Muslim Heritage Centre will feature the lifestyle and culture of the close-knit community through photographs and stories.
Significant historical events will also be featured.
Naseer Ghani, secretary of the Nagore Dargah Fundraising Committee, said: "The younger generation Indian Muslims do not know the history of the community. So to keep in touch with that, we felt the heritage centre will serve its purpose.
"Apart from that, the Indian Muslim community's history is a learning point for all communities in Singapore. We are opening it up for everyone; anyone in Singapore (can) come in."
One way to enjoy the traditions of the community is through their food.
The halal food chain "Banquet" will operate within the centre and serve authentic Indian Muslim food to tantalise taste buds.
Favourite items like nasi briyani and teh tarik will be on the menu.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore will have its first Indian Muslim Heritage Centre soon. It will be situated within the Nagore Dargah monument along Telok Ayer Street, and will open in the middle of next year.
Built nearly 180 years ago by Indian traders, the Nagore Dargah was gazetted as a national monument in 1974.
Legend has it that traders who set sail for Penang and Singapore from the original Nagore Dargah in coastal Tamil Nadu built the monument to remind them of home.
The Dargah, which is still visited for thanksgiving by Indian Muslims, went through a S$900,000 renovation two years ago.
The Indian Muslim Heritage Centre will feature the lifestyle and culture of the close-knit community through photographs and stories.
Significant historical events will also be featured.
Naseer Ghani, secretary of the Nagore Dargah Fundraising Committee, said: "The younger generation Indian Muslims do not know the history of the community. So to keep in touch with that, we felt the heritage centre will serve its purpose.
"Apart from that, the Indian Muslim community's history is a learning point for all communities in Singapore. We are opening it up for everyone; anyone in Singapore (can) come in."
One way to enjoy the traditions of the community is through their food.
The halal food chain "Banquet" will operate within the centre and serve authentic Indian Muslim food to tantalise taste buds.
Favourite items like nasi briyani and teh tarik will be on the menu.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Ice queen Michelle Kwan to perform in town
Ice queen Michelle Kwan to perform in town
Five-time world champion skater Michelle Kwan, who is in Singapore, will show her skills at the new rink at Marina Bay Sands.
She is in Singapore for the opening of the skating rink at the integrated resort.
The American ice queen was tight-lipped about her performances, except to say they would be a great event despite the fact she will be skating on synthetic ice at the 600-square-metre rink.
"Synthetic....I feel that it is more you have to feel the movement through and through. On ice, you push and you glide, and that feeling of gliding too fast can be very very hard for a beginner," she said.
While the ice may be artificial, Kwan will create real magic on ice. After all, she is one of the best in the sport.
The ice queen will perform over the weekend, with one show each on Saturday and Sunday.
Kwan also plans to make a return trip in January, as part of her role as a US sports envoy.
"I was just going through my schedule for my next trip and some of it would be teaching future Olympic Singaporean skaters," she said.
An Olympic gold is not part of her collection but Kwan has no plans to make a comeback, as finishing graduate school is her priority right now.
So it will be a rare treat for fans to catch her in action in Singapore.
After Kwan's performances, the rink at the integrated resort will be open to the public at a cost.
The Singapore Ice Skating Association is considering using it for its "Learn To Skate" programme.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Five-time world champion skater Michelle Kwan, who is in Singapore, will show her skills at the new rink at Marina Bay Sands.
She is in Singapore for the opening of the skating rink at the integrated resort.
The American ice queen was tight-lipped about her performances, except to say they would be a great event despite the fact she will be skating on synthetic ice at the 600-square-metre rink.
"Synthetic....I feel that it is more you have to feel the movement through and through. On ice, you push and you glide, and that feeling of gliding too fast can be very very hard for a beginner," she said.
While the ice may be artificial, Kwan will create real magic on ice. After all, she is one of the best in the sport.
The ice queen will perform over the weekend, with one show each on Saturday and Sunday.
Kwan also plans to make a return trip in January, as part of her role as a US sports envoy.
"I was just going through my schedule for my next trip and some of it would be teaching future Olympic Singaporean skaters," she said.
An Olympic gold is not part of her collection but Kwan has no plans to make a comeback, as finishing graduate school is her priority right now.
So it will be a rare treat for fans to catch her in action in Singapore.
After Kwan's performances, the rink at the integrated resort will be open to the public at a cost.
The Singapore Ice Skating Association is considering using it for its "Learn To Skate" programme.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Late-night makan at Bedok Point
Late-night makan at Bedok Point
For Mrs G. L. Low, 45, the soft opening of Bedok Point in New Upper Changi Road yesterday has brought her and her family much convenience.
The housewife and resident of Bedok Central for 12 years said: "My family and I used to go to Tampines or Parkway Parade for food and shopping. With Bedok Point up now, I'm happy to dine here more often and even do my shopping here."
Developed by Frasers Centrepoint, the 7,525 sq m shopping mall in Bedok Town Centre will house more than 70 tenants over four storeys and two basement floors. It officially opens in the first quarter of next year, a Frasers Centrepoint spokesman said.
When my paper visited it yesterday, many of the food-and- beverage outlets were open. They include nydc cafe, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, The Manhattan Fish Market, PastaMania, Killiney Cafe, Mos Burger, Yoshinoya and Jollibean.
Retail shops that opened for business include Pet Lovers Centre, Mini Toons, Eu Yan Sang and Giordano.
Most of the residents my paper spoke to were happy with the mall's range of food choices.
Student Diana Mohammed Zul, 16, said: "There are many young people who frequent Bedok Town Centre before and after school. It will be easier for us to find food here in an air-conditioned setting."
However, Madam Monica Lee, 57, a housewife who has lived in Bedok since 1980, said the mall must have unique features to attract and retain shoppers. She said: "I don't want the same old same old."
-News courtesy of Omy-
For Mrs G. L. Low, 45, the soft opening of Bedok Point in New Upper Changi Road yesterday has brought her and her family much convenience.
The housewife and resident of Bedok Central for 12 years said: "My family and I used to go to Tampines or Parkway Parade for food and shopping. With Bedok Point up now, I'm happy to dine here more often and even do my shopping here."
Developed by Frasers Centrepoint, the 7,525 sq m shopping mall in Bedok Town Centre will house more than 70 tenants over four storeys and two basement floors. It officially opens in the first quarter of next year, a Frasers Centrepoint spokesman said.
When my paper visited it yesterday, many of the food-and- beverage outlets were open. They include nydc cafe, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, The Manhattan Fish Market, PastaMania, Killiney Cafe, Mos Burger, Yoshinoya and Jollibean.
Retail shops that opened for business include Pet Lovers Centre, Mini Toons, Eu Yan Sang and Giordano.
Most of the residents my paper spoke to were happy with the mall's range of food choices.
Student Diana Mohammed Zul, 16, said: "There are many young people who frequent Bedok Town Centre before and after school. It will be easier for us to find food here in an air-conditioned setting."
However, Madam Monica Lee, 57, a housewife who has lived in Bedok since 1980, said the mall must have unique features to attract and retain shoppers. She said: "I don't want the same old same old."
-News courtesy of Omy-
Thursday 9 December 2010
Arrested for posing as foreigner to enter casino
PR arrested for posing as foreigner to enter casino
A 47-year-old female Singaporean PR tried to enter the casino at Resorts World Sentosa using the identity of a foreigner.
She was arrested by police on Monday after the casino's security officers found out that she was impersonating as a foreigner to avoid paying entry levy.
The suspect will be charged in court on Thursday with cheating.
If convicted, she can be jailed up to 5 years and fined.
She would also be liable to pay entry levy and the amount of levy that was not paid.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
A 47-year-old female Singaporean PR tried to enter the casino at Resorts World Sentosa using the identity of a foreigner.
She was arrested by police on Monday after the casino's security officers found out that she was impersonating as a foreigner to avoid paying entry levy.
The suspect will be charged in court on Thursday with cheating.
If convicted, she can be jailed up to 5 years and fined.
She would also be liable to pay entry levy and the amount of levy that was not paid.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday 28 November 2010
Changi Airport can handle traffic growth
Changi Airport can handle traffic growth: Transport Minister
Changi Airport's total capacity of 73 million passenger movements per year is sufficient to cope with traffic growth in the near to medium term.
Transport Minister Raymond Lim said this in a written reply to MP for Ang Mo Kio GRC Dr Lam Pin Min's question on Changi Airport's growth.
He said this is about 45 per cent more than the 40 million passenger movements that the Changi Airport Group (CAG) expects in 2010.
Changi Airport handled more than 34 million passengers in the first ten months of this year, which is a 15 per cent year-on-year increase over 2009.
Changi also handled over 1.5 million tonnes of cargo in the same period this year, a 13 per cent year-on-year increase.
The International Air Transport Association has projected strong traffic growth of about 35 per cent for the Asia Pacific region over the next four years, driven by the robust economic growth of major economies like China and India.
"Building capacity ahead of demand has been a key driver for the success of Changi Airport, and the regulatory framework will ensure that post-corporatisation, there will continue to be sufficient capacity at Changi Airport to handle future increases in traffic," Mr Lim said.
Changi Airport was corporatised in July last year, and with it came a regulatory framework to provide investment by CAG in airport infrastructure, runways and other facilities.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Changi Airport's total capacity of 73 million passenger movements per year is sufficient to cope with traffic growth in the near to medium term.
Transport Minister Raymond Lim said this in a written reply to MP for Ang Mo Kio GRC Dr Lam Pin Min's question on Changi Airport's growth.
He said this is about 45 per cent more than the 40 million passenger movements that the Changi Airport Group (CAG) expects in 2010.
Changi Airport handled more than 34 million passengers in the first ten months of this year, which is a 15 per cent year-on-year increase over 2009.
Changi also handled over 1.5 million tonnes of cargo in the same period this year, a 13 per cent year-on-year increase.
The International Air Transport Association has projected strong traffic growth of about 35 per cent for the Asia Pacific region over the next four years, driven by the robust economic growth of major economies like China and India.
"Building capacity ahead of demand has been a key driver for the success of Changi Airport, and the regulatory framework will ensure that post-corporatisation, there will continue to be sufficient capacity at Changi Airport to handle future increases in traffic," Mr Lim said.
Changi Airport was corporatised in July last year, and with it came a regulatory framework to provide investment by CAG in airport infrastructure, runways and other facilities.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wednesday 17 November 2010
Cable-car passengers stranded
Cable-car passengers stranded
SOME 20 cable-car passengers got more than they paid for yesterday afternoon when they were left stranded in their cabins for about 15 minutes, following a bout of bad weather.
The Mount Faber Leisure Group which operates the cable-car system between Mount Faber and Sentosa said that a bolt of lightning caused the 67 cable-car cabins, 110m in the air, to come to a standstill at about 12.45pm.
A spokesman clarified that there was no blackout during the incident. An independent back-up system was kick-started to get the cabins moving again at about 1pm.
The next 45 minutes were spent ferrying the affected passengers to safety, before the service resumed about an hour later after the all-clear was given.
The disruption, a first since the revamped cable cars were open to the public in July, was triggered by lightning sensors in its safety system, said the spokesman.
The cable-car system, which underwent a $36-million makeover, has a lightning protection device that stops cabins from moving when a certain amount of lightning activity is detected, she said.
Yesterday, the National Environment Agency's Meteorological Services Division said that Sentosa recorded moderate rainfall and high winds of up to 23kmh.
All 20 passengers had their fares refunded, the spokesman added. To ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, each cabin is equipped with a one-way communication system and ration packs are placed under cabin seats. In an emergency, the interior of the cabin will light up automatically.
-News courtesy of OMY-
SOME 20 cable-car passengers got more than they paid for yesterday afternoon when they were left stranded in their cabins for about 15 minutes, following a bout of bad weather.
The Mount Faber Leisure Group which operates the cable-car system between Mount Faber and Sentosa said that a bolt of lightning caused the 67 cable-car cabins, 110m in the air, to come to a standstill at about 12.45pm.
A spokesman clarified that there was no blackout during the incident. An independent back-up system was kick-started to get the cabins moving again at about 1pm.
The next 45 minutes were spent ferrying the affected passengers to safety, before the service resumed about an hour later after the all-clear was given.
The disruption, a first since the revamped cable cars were open to the public in July, was triggered by lightning sensors in its safety system, said the spokesman.
The cable-car system, which underwent a $36-million makeover, has a lightning protection device that stops cabins from moving when a certain amount of lightning activity is detected, she said.
Yesterday, the National Environment Agency's Meteorological Services Division said that Sentosa recorded moderate rainfall and high winds of up to 23kmh.
All 20 passengers had their fares refunded, the spokesman added. To ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, each cabin is equipped with a one-way communication system and ration packs are placed under cabin seats. In an emergency, the interior of the cabin will light up automatically.
-News courtesy of OMY-
Sunday 14 November 2010
AirAsia introduces S'pore-Miri route
AirAsia introduces S'pore-Miri route
Malaysian low cost airline AirAsia is enhancing its connectivity from Singapore with the introduction of a new route to Miri, Sarawak, and increased frequencies to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
AirAsia will be flying four times a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday - from Singapore to Miri.
To celebrate the new addition to its route network, the Malaysian budget carrier has launched promotional fares from Singapore to Miri from S$39 per way. The travel period is from 21 January 2011 - 30 June 2011.
AirAsia will also increase the frequencies of flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur will be raised to 10 times daily, effective 17 December 2010, from the current eight times a day.
For the Singapore-Penang route, with the addition of another frequency from 21 January 2011, the number of flights will increase to 3 times daily.
Kathleen Tan, regional head of commercial, AirAsia, said: "AirAsia is committed to connecting people and the new addition of Singapore to Miri route as well as increased frequencies from Singapore reiterates that commitment as Singapore is our virtual hub with 401 weekly flights to 13 cities internationally.
"This new route is definitely sustainable as Singapore is an international gateway, while Miri is the second largest city in Sarawak with a significant number of expatriates and international students.
"With this new route, Singapore is now connected to six cities in Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, and now Miri."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Malaysian low cost airline AirAsia is enhancing its connectivity from Singapore with the introduction of a new route to Miri, Sarawak, and increased frequencies to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
AirAsia will be flying four times a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday - from Singapore to Miri.
To celebrate the new addition to its route network, the Malaysian budget carrier has launched promotional fares from Singapore to Miri from S$39 per way. The travel period is from 21 January 2011 - 30 June 2011.
AirAsia will also increase the frequencies of flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur will be raised to 10 times daily, effective 17 December 2010, from the current eight times a day.
For the Singapore-Penang route, with the addition of another frequency from 21 January 2011, the number of flights will increase to 3 times daily.
Kathleen Tan, regional head of commercial, AirAsia, said: "AirAsia is committed to connecting people and the new addition of Singapore to Miri route as well as increased frequencies from Singapore reiterates that commitment as Singapore is our virtual hub with 401 weekly flights to 13 cities internationally.
"This new route is definitely sustainable as Singapore is an international gateway, while Miri is the second largest city in Sarawak with a significant number of expatriates and international students.
"With this new route, Singapore is now connected to six cities in Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, and now Miri."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Saturday 6 November 2010
Sg-Jakarta flights cancelled due to volcano
Singapore-Jakarta flights cancelled due to volcano
Several major airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, AirAsia, Valuair and Tiger Airways, cancelled their flights between Singapore and Jakarta on Saturday, citing volcanic ash from Mount Merapi.
Changi Airport Group said 11 out of 35 flights to the Indonesian capital were cancelled.
Volcanic ash can affect flight visibility and cause an aircraft's engine to fail.
Jakarta lies some 430 kilometres away from the volcano in central Java.
But with the adverse movements of the ash clouds, Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it was in the interest of safety that its flights were cancelled on Saturday.
SIA's vice-president for public affairs, Nicholas Ionides, said: "We've been monitoring the situation very closely. The decision was taken at about 3 o'clock to cancel all subsequent flights for the day. There were four outbound flights from Singapore and four return flights from Jakarta.
"That was a precautionary measure based on the information that we had from the volcanic ash advisory centre in Darwin...the latest was that the ash cloud was moving in a manner that made it prudent for us to cancel those flights."
Some passengers were unhappy over the flight cancellation.
An affected passenger said: "I have come here to see the doctors. And today I have (to go back) to continue my medical treatment in Indonesia. So I really hope it (the flight) would not be cancelled. And they haven't decided any compensation for us, or new arrangements, because they are still waiting for the news from Jakarta."
But another affected passenger said: "It's pretty good that they are not taking the risk to fly to Jakarta."
Still, there were those who still insisted on making their way to the Indonesian capital.
They turned to Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air to fly to Jakarta.
SIA has also cancelled flights scheduled for Sunday.
The flights affected are:
SQ952, Singapore-Jakarta, scheduled to depart at 0740 hours;
SQ956, Singapore-Jakarta, scheduled to depart at 0930 hours;
SQ951, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 0615 hours;
SQ953, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 0920 hours; and
SQ957, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 1140 hours.
Singapore Airlines said it will waive cancellation/change fees for confirmed tickets to and from Jakarta issued on or before 6 November 2010 for travel between 6 November and 13 November 2010.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Several major airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, AirAsia, Valuair and Tiger Airways, cancelled their flights between Singapore and Jakarta on Saturday, citing volcanic ash from Mount Merapi.
Changi Airport Group said 11 out of 35 flights to the Indonesian capital were cancelled.
Volcanic ash can affect flight visibility and cause an aircraft's engine to fail.
Jakarta lies some 430 kilometres away from the volcano in central Java.
But with the adverse movements of the ash clouds, Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it was in the interest of safety that its flights were cancelled on Saturday.
SIA's vice-president for public affairs, Nicholas Ionides, said: "We've been monitoring the situation very closely. The decision was taken at about 3 o'clock to cancel all subsequent flights for the day. There were four outbound flights from Singapore and four return flights from Jakarta.
"That was a precautionary measure based on the information that we had from the volcanic ash advisory centre in Darwin...the latest was that the ash cloud was moving in a manner that made it prudent for us to cancel those flights."
Some passengers were unhappy over the flight cancellation.
An affected passenger said: "I have come here to see the doctors. And today I have (to go back) to continue my medical treatment in Indonesia. So I really hope it (the flight) would not be cancelled. And they haven't decided any compensation for us, or new arrangements, because they are still waiting for the news from Jakarta."
But another affected passenger said: "It's pretty good that they are not taking the risk to fly to Jakarta."
Still, there were those who still insisted on making their way to the Indonesian capital.
They turned to Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air to fly to Jakarta.
SIA has also cancelled flights scheduled for Sunday.
The flights affected are:
SQ952, Singapore-Jakarta, scheduled to depart at 0740 hours;
SQ956, Singapore-Jakarta, scheduled to depart at 0930 hours;
SQ951, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 0615 hours;
SQ953, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 0920 hours; and
SQ957, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 1140 hours.
Singapore Airlines said it will waive cancellation/change fees for confirmed tickets to and from Jakarta issued on or before 6 November 2010 for travel between 6 November and 13 November 2010.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday 5 November 2010
SIA resumes A380 flights
SIA resumes A380 flights after precautionary checks
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it has begun resuming A380 flights following precautionary checks. The checks were carried out following advice from engine manufacturer Rolls Royce and aircraft manufacturer Airbus.
SIA delayed its flights operating the A380 aircraft Thursday evening.
This followed Thursday's incident in which a Qantas A380 Sydney bound flight encountered engine trouble.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it has begun resuming A380 flights following precautionary checks. The checks were carried out following advice from engine manufacturer Rolls Royce and aircraft manufacturer Airbus.
SIA delayed its flights operating the A380 aircraft Thursday evening.
This followed Thursday's incident in which a Qantas A380 Sydney bound flight encountered engine trouble.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday 4 November 2010
Changi Airport raises airport charges
Changi Airport Group raises airport charges
Airlines and travellers using Changi Airport will have to pay more from April next year, following the revision of airport charges announced by the Changi Airport Group on Wednesday.
The revision includes service and security charges for transit and transfer passengers, and an increase in landing fees for airlines, which analysts said will also result in budget travellers paying more.
Departing passengers using Changi Terminals 1, 2, and 3 will not be affected.
Changi Airport handles about 37 million passengers a year - with 30 per cent on transit or making a transfer.
From April 1 next year, such travellers will be subjected to a passenger service charge of S$9 and a security service charge of S$3, which will be added to the price of the air ticket.
Changi Airport Group said transit and transfer passengers also have access to the facilities and services within the transit areas in Changi. These include the holding rooms, transfer counters and free Internet access. So it is only appropriate for them to share the costs of providing these facilities.
It added that investments in security since the September 11, 2001 attacks have resulted in higher costs.
It said fees for such transit and transfer passengers are already levied in major airports in Europe and Asia.
Travellers that Channel NewsAsia spoke to had mixed reactions.
One traveller said: "I guess S$12 is too much for a transit passenger."
However, another said: "The things you can do - eat and shop - so for me, I will be ok with it."
Changi said following a S$20 million upgrading last year, budget travellers have enjoyed an improved experience at the terminal, and there is a need to recover part of the cost of operating the terminal.
The passenger service charge for budget travellers will be raised to S$7.80 per trip, from S$4.80. The passenger security service charge, however, remains unchanged at S$8.
"As a whole, if you compare the total amount, the S$3 (increase) is not very significant," a traveller said.
"I would not think it's expensive, it's fine for me," another added.
The new fees will apply to all air tickets purchased from February 1 next year for travel on or after April 1.
Analysts said it is still too early to tell how much ticket prices will be affected, as airlines - especially those with smaller aircraft - will have to pay more landing fees.
Airlines will see a 15 per cent average increase in their landing, parking and aerobridge (LPA) bill.
Changi said expenses have increased significantly with major enhancements to infrastructure, and the current landing fees for narrow body aircraft is also disproportionately lower compared to larger aircraft types.
Low-cost carriers are no doubt unhappy with the move as it will hit them harder, but analysts said they are unlikely to see a loss of business.
Siva Govindasamy, managing editor, Asia, Flightglobal, said: "It is far easier for the full service carriers to pass on higher costs to their passengers, simply because fares are higher.
"This will affect the low cost market a lot more because it will mean higher fares for the passengers ...
"The low cost carriers which operate on the principle that you have to keep your cost base low - they are going to face higher cost and they will have no choice but to pass it on to their customers.
"So will it affect their business? Unlikely, because the low cost model is growing and there will continue to be a lot of demand for low cost travel in this part of the world."
As for full-service carriers, Singapore Airlines said that in general, any cost increase is of concern, given the fragility of the economic recovery.
Nicholas Ionides, vice president of public affairs at Singapore Airlines, added: "Where increases in fees are applied, they should be fair and equitable so that all airlines compete on a level playing field.
"Our common objective is the sustained success of Singapore as a leading aviation hub. We are appreciative of the fact that CAG consulted stakeholders as part of its review of aeronautical charges."
Jetstar said it is concerned that its cost base will rise in "this extremely competitive environment".
Both Tiger Airways and Jetstar said they will take cost adjustments into consideration when determining future capacity.
Tiger Airways added that Asia continues to hold a lot of growth potential for low cost carriers. To keep up with the region's growth potential, it is looking to expand its fleet from 21 to 26 by next March, and to 33 by the following March.
Tony Davis, president and group CEO, Tiger Airways, said: "We're saying to airports - you've got to make your facilities affordable. If we're pushing fares down and reducing our costs, we expect airports to do the same.
"We want simple basic infrastructure at a low price, and airports that deliver that to us are going to get the most growth."
The impact of the fee increase may be cushioned as Changi extends its landing fee rebate of up to 10 per cent for all airlines until 31 March 2012.
Changi said even with the landing fee revision, the airport will remain competitive.
Since the airport's opening in 1981, landing fees have been adjusted twice - in 1993 and 1995.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Airlines and travellers using Changi Airport will have to pay more from April next year, following the revision of airport charges announced by the Changi Airport Group on Wednesday.
The revision includes service and security charges for transit and transfer passengers, and an increase in landing fees for airlines, which analysts said will also result in budget travellers paying more.
Departing passengers using Changi Terminals 1, 2, and 3 will not be affected.
Changi Airport handles about 37 million passengers a year - with 30 per cent on transit or making a transfer.
From April 1 next year, such travellers will be subjected to a passenger service charge of S$9 and a security service charge of S$3, which will be added to the price of the air ticket.
Changi Airport Group said transit and transfer passengers also have access to the facilities and services within the transit areas in Changi. These include the holding rooms, transfer counters and free Internet access. So it is only appropriate for them to share the costs of providing these facilities.
It added that investments in security since the September 11, 2001 attacks have resulted in higher costs.
It said fees for such transit and transfer passengers are already levied in major airports in Europe and Asia.
Travellers that Channel NewsAsia spoke to had mixed reactions.
One traveller said: "I guess S$12 is too much for a transit passenger."
However, another said: "The things you can do - eat and shop - so for me, I will be ok with it."
Changi said following a S$20 million upgrading last year, budget travellers have enjoyed an improved experience at the terminal, and there is a need to recover part of the cost of operating the terminal.
The passenger service charge for budget travellers will be raised to S$7.80 per trip, from S$4.80. The passenger security service charge, however, remains unchanged at S$8.
"As a whole, if you compare the total amount, the S$3 (increase) is not very significant," a traveller said.
"I would not think it's expensive, it's fine for me," another added.
The new fees will apply to all air tickets purchased from February 1 next year for travel on or after April 1.
Analysts said it is still too early to tell how much ticket prices will be affected, as airlines - especially those with smaller aircraft - will have to pay more landing fees.
Airlines will see a 15 per cent average increase in their landing, parking and aerobridge (LPA) bill.
Changi said expenses have increased significantly with major enhancements to infrastructure, and the current landing fees for narrow body aircraft is also disproportionately lower compared to larger aircraft types.
Low-cost carriers are no doubt unhappy with the move as it will hit them harder, but analysts said they are unlikely to see a loss of business.
Siva Govindasamy, managing editor, Asia, Flightglobal, said: "It is far easier for the full service carriers to pass on higher costs to their passengers, simply because fares are higher.
"This will affect the low cost market a lot more because it will mean higher fares for the passengers ...
"The low cost carriers which operate on the principle that you have to keep your cost base low - they are going to face higher cost and they will have no choice but to pass it on to their customers.
"So will it affect their business? Unlikely, because the low cost model is growing and there will continue to be a lot of demand for low cost travel in this part of the world."
As for full-service carriers, Singapore Airlines said that in general, any cost increase is of concern, given the fragility of the economic recovery.
Nicholas Ionides, vice president of public affairs at Singapore Airlines, added: "Where increases in fees are applied, they should be fair and equitable so that all airlines compete on a level playing field.
"Our common objective is the sustained success of Singapore as a leading aviation hub. We are appreciative of the fact that CAG consulted stakeholders as part of its review of aeronautical charges."
Jetstar said it is concerned that its cost base will rise in "this extremely competitive environment".
Both Tiger Airways and Jetstar said they will take cost adjustments into consideration when determining future capacity.
Tiger Airways added that Asia continues to hold a lot of growth potential for low cost carriers. To keep up with the region's growth potential, it is looking to expand its fleet from 21 to 26 by next March, and to 33 by the following March.
Tony Davis, president and group CEO, Tiger Airways, said: "We're saying to airports - you've got to make your facilities affordable. If we're pushing fares down and reducing our costs, we expect airports to do the same.
"We want simple basic infrastructure at a low price, and airports that deliver that to us are going to get the most growth."
The impact of the fee increase may be cushioned as Changi extends its landing fee rebate of up to 10 per cent for all airlines until 31 March 2012.
Changi said even with the landing fee revision, the airport will remain competitive.
Since the airport's opening in 1981, landing fees have been adjusted twice - in 1993 and 1995.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thian Hock Keng temple undergoes renovations
Thian Hock Keng temple undergoes renovations
The 160-year-old Thian Hock Keng temple in Telok Ayer is also home to a large number of bats.
Even though the temple is going through a year-long renovation programme, it said the bats will stay.
The temple has tried to chase out the bats because of hygiene problems, but it has been unsuccessful.
Some temple goers said the bats are good luck charms.
But the temple still needs to undergo maintenance as the last one was carried out 10 years ago.
There are bubbles on the wall, and the roof leaks when it rains. The pillars are getting hollowed out due to termites, which may cause the pillars to collapse.
Experts said these are signs that the temple's interior has too much moisture, and they plan to change the roof and some of its tiles.
They also plan to stop water from coming up from the ground.
James Kuah, representative of Thian Hock Keng Temple, said: "The water is always penetrating from the ground level to the top. So as a result, you see all the stains and bubbles on the wall.
"So the only way proposed by the consultant is that they can always drill a few holes along the bottom part of the wall, probably about 30 cm apart. Then they will inject certain water-proofing chemicals in the wall, so...the lower portion of the wall (will be sealed up). As a result, the water will not be able to penetrate further."
Mr Kuah said the renovation will be staggered and carried out in phases as there are many events held at the temple. The whole process is expected to take 12 to 14 months.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The 160-year-old Thian Hock Keng temple in Telok Ayer is also home to a large number of bats.
Even though the temple is going through a year-long renovation programme, it said the bats will stay.
The temple has tried to chase out the bats because of hygiene problems, but it has been unsuccessful.
Some temple goers said the bats are good luck charms.
But the temple still needs to undergo maintenance as the last one was carried out 10 years ago.
There are bubbles on the wall, and the roof leaks when it rains. The pillars are getting hollowed out due to termites, which may cause the pillars to collapse.
Experts said these are signs that the temple's interior has too much moisture, and they plan to change the roof and some of its tiles.
They also plan to stop water from coming up from the ground.
James Kuah, representative of Thian Hock Keng Temple, said: "The water is always penetrating from the ground level to the top. So as a result, you see all the stains and bubbles on the wall.
"So the only way proposed by the consultant is that they can always drill a few holes along the bottom part of the wall, probably about 30 cm apart. Then they will inject certain water-proofing chemicals in the wall, so...the lower portion of the wall (will be sealed up). As a result, the water will not be able to penetrate further."
Mr Kuah said the renovation will be staggered and carried out in phases as there are many events held at the temple. The whole process is expected to take 12 to 14 months.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
NParks launches 4 new DIY trail guides
NParks launches 4 new DIY trail guides
The National Parks Board (NParks) has launched four new Do-It-Yourself (DIY) trail guides, in conjunction with Clean and Green Singapore (CGS) 2011.
Members of the public will get more opportunities to learn about trees and appreciate their importance in making Singapore a highly liveable city through these guides.
The guides are available for trails at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Pulau Ubin, Changi and Fort Canning Park.
They will highlight the interesting features of trees along these trails. For example, the Baobab (Adansonia digitata) at Fort Canning Park has an interesting bottle-like trunk, akin to a tree being flipped "upside-down".
The more-than-100-year-old Penaga Laut (Calophyllum inophyllum) at Singapore Botanic Gardens is more than a tree - its trunk plays host to a rich diversity of ferns, climbers and wildlife.
For those who prefer to participate in guided tours, NParks is also organising more regular tree appreciation walks in various parks in Singapore.
Simon Longman, Director (Streetscape) at NParks explained that the DIY guides and tree appreciation walks are an extension of its ongoing initiatives to reach out to the public to create awareness and appreciation of trees in shaping our Garden City.
"Besides promoting interest and understanding of trees, we also hope to share the importance of these living organisms in our environment."
The guides are currently available for downloading on the NParks website www.nparks.gov.sg/eguides
NParks also announced the dedication of Heritage Trees to Mrs Margaret Lien, ExxonMobil, FCL Pte Ltd and Kikkoman, in appreciation of their contribution to the Garden City Fund.
Collectively, they have contributed about S$3 million to the Garden City efforts.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The National Parks Board (NParks) has launched four new Do-It-Yourself (DIY) trail guides, in conjunction with Clean and Green Singapore (CGS) 2011.
Members of the public will get more opportunities to learn about trees and appreciate their importance in making Singapore a highly liveable city through these guides.
The guides are available for trails at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Pulau Ubin, Changi and Fort Canning Park.
They will highlight the interesting features of trees along these trails. For example, the Baobab (Adansonia digitata) at Fort Canning Park has an interesting bottle-like trunk, akin to a tree being flipped "upside-down".
The more-than-100-year-old Penaga Laut (Calophyllum inophyllum) at Singapore Botanic Gardens is more than a tree - its trunk plays host to a rich diversity of ferns, climbers and wildlife.
For those who prefer to participate in guided tours, NParks is also organising more regular tree appreciation walks in various parks in Singapore.
Simon Longman, Director (Streetscape) at NParks explained that the DIY guides and tree appreciation walks are an extension of its ongoing initiatives to reach out to the public to create awareness and appreciation of trees in shaping our Garden City.
"Besides promoting interest and understanding of trees, we also hope to share the importance of these living organisms in our environment."
The guides are currently available for downloading on the NParks website www.nparks.gov.sg/eguides
NParks also announced the dedication of Heritage Trees to Mrs Margaret Lien, ExxonMobil, FCL Pte Ltd and Kikkoman, in appreciation of their contribution to the Garden City Fund.
Collectively, they have contributed about S$3 million to the Garden City efforts.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday 31 October 2010
"Sumatra" squall causes unstable weather conditions in Singapore
"Sumatra" squall causes unstable weather conditions in Singapore
The National Environment Agency (NEA) says strong winds and rain early Saturday were caused by a "Sumatra" squall.
A "Sumatra" squall is an organised line of thunderstorms that develops over Sumatra or the Straits of Malacca that moves eastward towards Singapore.
As such, unstable weather conditions were experienced in Singapore.
The highest rainfall recorded on Saturday morning was 30mm at Kent Ridge and the highest wind speed was 60.5kph recorded at Pasir Panjang at 5.40am.
The station nearest to Toa Payoh is Nanyang Polytechnic and the highest wind speed recorded there was 11kph at about 8am.
On Friday, strong winds and rain caused streets in the Serangoon North and Yio Chu Kang areas to be littered with fallen branches.
According to NParks, fallen branches caused damage to cars, a bus, roofs and fences of two properties.
The roof of a house in Jalan Limbok along Yio Chu Kang Road was damaged when a huge branch fell on it, causing rainwater to seep in.
When the news team visited the house on Saturday, rainwater was still seeping in.
The family is getting help from their insurance company and is also trying to seek compensation from NParks.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The National Environment Agency (NEA) says strong winds and rain early Saturday were caused by a "Sumatra" squall.
A "Sumatra" squall is an organised line of thunderstorms that develops over Sumatra or the Straits of Malacca that moves eastward towards Singapore.
As such, unstable weather conditions were experienced in Singapore.
The highest rainfall recorded on Saturday morning was 30mm at Kent Ridge and the highest wind speed was 60.5kph recorded at Pasir Panjang at 5.40am.
The station nearest to Toa Payoh is Nanyang Polytechnic and the highest wind speed recorded there was 11kph at about 8am.
On Friday, strong winds and rain caused streets in the Serangoon North and Yio Chu Kang areas to be littered with fallen branches.
According to NParks, fallen branches caused damage to cars, a bus, roofs and fences of two properties.
The roof of a house in Jalan Limbok along Yio Chu Kang Road was damaged when a huge branch fell on it, causing rainwater to seep in.
When the news team visited the house on Saturday, rainwater was still seeping in.
The family is getting help from their insurance company and is also trying to seek compensation from NParks.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday 24 October 2010
Beach clubs affected by the haze
Beach clubs affected by the haze
The PSI hovered in the moderate range on Saturday, hitting 78 at 12 noon, and the outlook for businesses along the beach has been similarly cloudy with the haze.
Observers say many regular beachgoers have stayed away from the beach, leaving the usually packed beach clubs empty.
Clubs like Bora Bora and Cafe Del Mar say business over the last three days has been bad, with the haze driving away more than half of their customers.
"Usually, business on weekdays, we can get at least [1,000 to 1,200 customers]. But these weekdays, we have only 300 to 400 like that," says Siti Asiah, a waitress at the Bora Bora Beach Bar.
Adrian Lee, Operations Manager at Cafe Del Mar, says that he has seen a drop in customers as well.
"We have a drop of maybe 10 to 20 per cent of people coming into Cafe Del Mar itself. Even like Saturday, like you can see right now, we are not having as much as what you have last Saturday."
However, Sentosa Leisure Group says the haze does not seem to have deterred guests from visiting Sentosa and adds that guest arrivals continued to be brisk this past week.
It is anticipating a good turnout at its annual Halloween event, Sentosa Spooktacular, which kicks off this weekend.
On Saturday afternoon, the haze did not stop beachgoers at Sentosa from enjoying their weekend by the sea.
"It's not that bad today. So it's all right you know coming here for a toss, for a drink with friends. Nevertheless, we still take note, if the haze gets worse, we'll definitely consider. But right now, it's perfect, the weather, the wind, the breeze," says beachgoer Joe Leong.
Another beachgoer, Grace Quek, agrees.
"Today haze [is not that bad]. Like [a] normal day...so I just come out here and suntan. [There is also no obvious] smell at all, like [a] normal day."
At East Coast Park, bicycle kiosk operator Mr Lee has suffered a 40 per cent drop in customers.
"There are more teenagers, but less children. There are less families coming here also."
As for the weather outlook, NEA says hazy conditions are still expected with winds forecast to remain southwesterly to westerly for the next two days.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The PSI hovered in the moderate range on Saturday, hitting 78 at 12 noon, and the outlook for businesses along the beach has been similarly cloudy with the haze.
Observers say many regular beachgoers have stayed away from the beach, leaving the usually packed beach clubs empty.
Clubs like Bora Bora and Cafe Del Mar say business over the last three days has been bad, with the haze driving away more than half of their customers.
"Usually, business on weekdays, we can get at least [1,000 to 1,200 customers]. But these weekdays, we have only 300 to 400 like that," says Siti Asiah, a waitress at the Bora Bora Beach Bar.
Adrian Lee, Operations Manager at Cafe Del Mar, says that he has seen a drop in customers as well.
"We have a drop of maybe 10 to 20 per cent of people coming into Cafe Del Mar itself. Even like Saturday, like you can see right now, we are not having as much as what you have last Saturday."
However, Sentosa Leisure Group says the haze does not seem to have deterred guests from visiting Sentosa and adds that guest arrivals continued to be brisk this past week.
It is anticipating a good turnout at its annual Halloween event, Sentosa Spooktacular, which kicks off this weekend.
On Saturday afternoon, the haze did not stop beachgoers at Sentosa from enjoying their weekend by the sea.
"It's not that bad today. So it's all right you know coming here for a toss, for a drink with friends. Nevertheless, we still take note, if the haze gets worse, we'll definitely consider. But right now, it's perfect, the weather, the wind, the breeze," says beachgoer Joe Leong.
Another beachgoer, Grace Quek, agrees.
"Today haze [is not that bad]. Like [a] normal day...so I just come out here and suntan. [There is also no obvious] smell at all, like [a] normal day."
At East Coast Park, bicycle kiosk operator Mr Lee has suffered a 40 per cent drop in customers.
"There are more teenagers, but less children. There are less families coming here also."
As for the weather outlook, NEA says hazy conditions are still expected with winds forecast to remain southwesterly to westerly for the next two days.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singaporeans gear up for Deepavali celebrations
Singaporeans gear up for Deepavali celebrations
Deepavali arrives in about two weeks time and residents in Marine Parade, MacPherson and Potong Pasir are already gearing up for the festival.
In a prelude to Deepavali, grassroot leaders put together a community dance drama to help nearly 1,000 residents understand and appreciate the story of Ramayana and how it's related to Deepavali.
It was interwoven with multi-cultural dances and presented in English with Chinese subtitles to attract a greater community participation.
Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and the MPs from Marine Parade GRC, and MacPherson and Potong Pasir, namely Mr Matthias Yao, Ong Seh Hong, Associate Professor Fatimah Lateef, Mr Lim Biow Chuan, Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Mr Seah Kian Peng and Mr Sitoh Yih Pin, were in the audience.
The event ended with a ritual burning of an effigy of Ravana, a demon king in Hindu mythology and a pyrotechnics display.
The organisers hope that such events can generate a greater appreciation for Indian culture and tradition.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Deepavali arrives in about two weeks time and residents in Marine Parade, MacPherson and Potong Pasir are already gearing up for the festival.
In a prelude to Deepavali, grassroot leaders put together a community dance drama to help nearly 1,000 residents understand and appreciate the story of Ramayana and how it's related to Deepavali.
It was interwoven with multi-cultural dances and presented in English with Chinese subtitles to attract a greater community participation.
Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and the MPs from Marine Parade GRC, and MacPherson and Potong Pasir, namely Mr Matthias Yao, Ong Seh Hong, Associate Professor Fatimah Lateef, Mr Lim Biow Chuan, Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Mr Seah Kian Peng and Mr Sitoh Yih Pin, were in the audience.
The event ended with a ritual burning of an effigy of Ravana, a demon king in Hindu mythology and a pyrotechnics display.
The organisers hope that such events can generate a greater appreciation for Indian culture and tradition.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday 22 October 2010
Changi Airport flights unaffected by haze
Changi Airport flights unaffected by haze
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has said flights at Changi Airport are not affected by the haze which reached unhealthy levels on Thursday.
The three-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading rose to 108 at 6pm. A PSI reading between 101-200 is considered unhealthy.
Responding to media queries, CAAS pointed out that Changi Airport is equipped with facilities and procedures to allow safe landing of aircraft in low visibility conditions.
This is in accordance with international standards.
The airport is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS) which provides guidance to pilots for their landing on the runway.
CAAS said the pilot's decision to land is based on the Runway Visual Range, which is the range over which the pilot can see along the runway.
This can be reduced if the haze is severe.
CAAS said that flights can still land at Changi Airport safely even when the Runway Visual Range is below 500 metres.
The visibility reading at Changi Airport on Thursday is between 1,500 and 1,800 metres.
From past experience, the visibility at Changi Airport due to haze has not gone below 550 metres.
During the prolonged haze period in 1997, the lowest visibility reading at Changi Airport was about 800 metres.
Asked about the haze situation, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said: "It is a matter of very serious concern as a health hazard that has not just affected Singapore but also the southern part of West Malaysia."
He said Singapore's Ambassador in Jakarta has been instructed to inform the Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry that Foreign Minister George Yeo would like to speak to his Indonesian counterpart Marty Natalegawa on Friday.
Singapore's Environment and Water Resources Minister, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, has also contacted his Indonesian counterpart to register the Republic's concerns.
Separately, Channel NewsAsia has learnt that Indonesia is the only ASEAN member that has not ratified the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution.
The news network also understands that the Indonesian State Minister for the Environment, Prof Dr Gusti Muhammad Hatta, did not attend the 6th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution in Brunei on October 13.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has said flights at Changi Airport are not affected by the haze which reached unhealthy levels on Thursday.
The three-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading rose to 108 at 6pm. A PSI reading between 101-200 is considered unhealthy.
Responding to media queries, CAAS pointed out that Changi Airport is equipped with facilities and procedures to allow safe landing of aircraft in low visibility conditions.
This is in accordance with international standards.
The airport is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS) which provides guidance to pilots for their landing on the runway.
CAAS said the pilot's decision to land is based on the Runway Visual Range, which is the range over which the pilot can see along the runway.
This can be reduced if the haze is severe.
CAAS said that flights can still land at Changi Airport safely even when the Runway Visual Range is below 500 metres.
The visibility reading at Changi Airport on Thursday is between 1,500 and 1,800 metres.
From past experience, the visibility at Changi Airport due to haze has not gone below 550 metres.
During the prolonged haze period in 1997, the lowest visibility reading at Changi Airport was about 800 metres.
Asked about the haze situation, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said: "It is a matter of very serious concern as a health hazard that has not just affected Singapore but also the southern part of West Malaysia."
He said Singapore's Ambassador in Jakarta has been instructed to inform the Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry that Foreign Minister George Yeo would like to speak to his Indonesian counterpart Marty Natalegawa on Friday.
Singapore's Environment and Water Resources Minister, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, has also contacted his Indonesian counterpart to register the Republic's concerns.
Separately, Channel NewsAsia has learnt that Indonesia is the only ASEAN member that has not ratified the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution.
The news network also understands that the Indonesian State Minister for the Environment, Prof Dr Gusti Muhammad Hatta, did not attend the 6th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution in Brunei on October 13.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday 21 October 2010
Big, bad haze for 3 more days
Big, bad haze for 3 more days
THE haze is here to stay at least for the next three days said the National Environment Agency (NEA) at a media briefing held yesterday to shed more light on the haze situation here.
However, Singaporeans need not be unduly alarmed as the haze, caused by fires in the Sumatran region of Indonesia, is unlikely to reach hazardous levels here.
Yesterday, the Pollutants Standards Index (PSI) level hit a high of 80, which is in the moderate region. The PSI levels will depend on the intensity of the fires, the wind direction and whether there is rain.
Mr Joseph Hui, Director-General of the Environmental Protection Division of the NEA, said: "If the wind blows in the West-North-West direction and the fires remain constant, it is likely that the PSI levels will increase."
He added that the western part of Singapore will be the most affected.
In response to my paper queries, a Ministry of Health spokesman said that cases of asthma, bronchitis and allergic conjunctivitis can be expected to increase due to the presence of irritants in the air. The spokesman said: "People are advised to avoid vigorous outdoor activities if the PSI is beyond 100 as the air is unhealthy."
News courtesy of Omy
THE haze is here to stay at least for the next three days said the National Environment Agency (NEA) at a media briefing held yesterday to shed more light on the haze situation here.
However, Singaporeans need not be unduly alarmed as the haze, caused by fires in the Sumatran region of Indonesia, is unlikely to reach hazardous levels here.
Yesterday, the Pollutants Standards Index (PSI) level hit a high of 80, which is in the moderate region. The PSI levels will depend on the intensity of the fires, the wind direction and whether there is rain.
Mr Joseph Hui, Director-General of the Environmental Protection Division of the NEA, said: "If the wind blows in the West-North-West direction and the fires remain constant, it is likely that the PSI levels will increase."
He added that the western part of Singapore will be the most affected.
In response to my paper queries, a Ministry of Health spokesman said that cases of asthma, bronchitis and allergic conjunctivitis can be expected to increase due to the presence of irritants in the air. The spokesman said: "People are advised to avoid vigorous outdoor activities if the PSI is beyond 100 as the air is unhealthy."
News courtesy of Omy
Sunday 17 October 2010
"i Light Marina Bay" festival
"i Light Marina Bay" festival supported by over 10 buildings
More than 10 buildings, including One Fullerton and Marina Bay Sands, will support the "i Light Marina Bay" festival which starts this Friday and will last till 7th November.
Properties involved will light up using less energy to raise awareness on sustainable urban development.
One Fullerton, for example, will switch off selected building facade lights, while Marina Bay Sands will raise air-conditioning thermostats in the property's basements.
The main draw of the festival will be the light installations placed around the Marina Bay reservoir being done by local and international artists.
Many of these installations are made from recycled materials and use little energy to dazzle the cityscape.
Mary-Anne Kyriakou, the festival's director, is hoping that audiences will be able to enjoy the dazzling displays.
"What we're hoping that the audience takes away with them and the public, is the feeling of inspiration, excitement, fun, and an event whereby the built environment is not just about spending money, it's about bringing your own picnic and just enjoying the built environment and urban space in its most natural form," she said.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
More than 10 buildings, including One Fullerton and Marina Bay Sands, will support the "i Light Marina Bay" festival which starts this Friday and will last till 7th November.
Properties involved will light up using less energy to raise awareness on sustainable urban development.
One Fullerton, for example, will switch off selected building facade lights, while Marina Bay Sands will raise air-conditioning thermostats in the property's basements.
The main draw of the festival will be the light installations placed around the Marina Bay reservoir being done by local and international artists.
Many of these installations are made from recycled materials and use little energy to dazzle the cityscape.
Mary-Anne Kyriakou, the festival's director, is hoping that audiences will be able to enjoy the dazzling displays.
"What we're hoping that the audience takes away with them and the public, is the feeling of inspiration, excitement, fun, and an event whereby the built environment is not just about spending money, it's about bringing your own picnic and just enjoying the built environment and urban space in its most natural form," she said.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)