Youth Olympic Games is more than just winning medals
The Olympic Games has always been the pinnacle sporting event for athletes wanting to establish themselves as the numero uno sportsman in the world.
However, at the coming Youth Olympic Games Singapore 2010, it's not just about winning medals, as the inaugural Games has already been labeled as an event that encompasses sport, culture and education.
To achieve that aim, the Singapore Youth Olympic Games Organizing Committee (SYOGOC) has integrated a Culture and Education Programme (CEP) that will allow athletes to embrace, adapt and live by the Olympic values of Excellence, Friendship and Respect.
The highlight of this programme is Friends@YOG, since forging friendships is the best way to learn about other countries' culture and develop respect for cultural diversity.
This will see Singapore schools paired up with each of the 205 National Olympic Council home countries under a twinning programme under Friends@YOG endorsed by the International Olympic Committee.
Since the programme began in December 2008, the pairing has seen 229 local schools matched up more than half of the 204 participation nations, with some schools wasting no time in introducing Singapore culture to new friends.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Saturday 27 February 2010
Record number of visitors in Jan
Record number of visitors to Singapore in Jan
January 2010 saw the highest ever recorded number of visitors to Singapore for the month.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said 908,000 visitors were in Singapore last month, an increase of about 17.5 per cent compared to a year ago.
Singapore's top five visitor-generating markets in the month were - Indonesia with 173,000 visitors, China with 99,000 visitors, Australia with 90,000 visitors, Malaysia with 68,000 visitors, and India with 57,000 visitors.
STB said these markets accounted for 54 per cent of total visitor arrivals for the month.
Visitor days were estimated at 3.6 million days, a year-on-year growth of 8.7 per cent, as compared to January 2009.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
January 2010 saw the highest ever recorded number of visitors to Singapore for the month.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said 908,000 visitors were in Singapore last month, an increase of about 17.5 per cent compared to a year ago.
Singapore's top five visitor-generating markets in the month were - Indonesia with 173,000 visitors, China with 99,000 visitors, Australia with 90,000 visitors, Malaysia with 68,000 visitors, and India with 57,000 visitors.
STB said these markets accounted for 54 per cent of total visitor arrivals for the month.
Visitor days were estimated at 3.6 million days, a year-on-year growth of 8.7 per cent, as compared to January 2009.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday 25 February 2010
Tiger Airways to expand in India
Tiger Airways to expand in India
Singapore budget carrier Tiger Airways said Tuesday it was looking at flying to three more destinations in India in addition to Chennai and Bangalore.
Tiger president and chief executive Tony Davis said the airline wants to fly to Trivandrum and Kochi in Kerala state and Trichy in Tamil Nadu.
"As the world's second most populous country, India is a natural consideration for us to expand our low-fare offering," Davis said in a statement.
"We have had numerous requests from passengers to fly to more Indian destinations. With this encouragement, we plan to commence discussions with the airports and authorities."
Tiger Airways, which is one-third owned by Singapore Airlines, operates flights to 33 destinations across 11 countries and territories in Asia and Australia from bases in Singapore and the Australian cities of Melbourne and Adelaide.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore budget carrier Tiger Airways said Tuesday it was looking at flying to three more destinations in India in addition to Chennai and Bangalore.
Tiger president and chief executive Tony Davis said the airline wants to fly to Trivandrum and Kochi in Kerala state and Trichy in Tamil Nadu.
"As the world's second most populous country, India is a natural consideration for us to expand our low-fare offering," Davis said in a statement.
"We have had numerous requests from passengers to fly to more Indian destinations. With this encouragement, we plan to commence discussions with the airports and authorities."
Tiger Airways, which is one-third owned by Singapore Airlines, operates flights to 33 destinations across 11 countries and territories in Asia and Australia from bases in Singapore and the Australian cities of Melbourne and Adelaide.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Marina Bay Sands to open from Apr 27
Marina Bay Sands integrated resort to open in phases from Apr 27
The Marina Bay Sands integrated resort has announced it will start operations in phases from April 27.
Phase One will see its casino, celebrity chef restaurants and some retail outlets open to the public.
In about two months, some of these construction cranes would have disappeared.
963 hotel rooms will open for bookings, out of the 2,600 planned for the integrated resort.
Its convention centre will stage its first event and the casino will see its first punters.
At least, that's the plan according to Marina Bay Sands.
The rest depends on whether construction schedules will be kept and if it receives the necessary regulatory approvals.
Phase two will see the SkyPark and additional retail joints open on June 23.
Plans for the S$7.8 billion integrated resort started nearly four years ago and it's said to be the most expensive development of its kind.
The project has weathered its share of challenges along the way, including high construction costs during the previous economic boom and more recently, the global financial crisis and difficulties in meeting its recruitment targets.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Marina Bay Sands integrated resort has announced it will start operations in phases from April 27.
Phase One will see its casino, celebrity chef restaurants and some retail outlets open to the public.
In about two months, some of these construction cranes would have disappeared.
963 hotel rooms will open for bookings, out of the 2,600 planned for the integrated resort.
Its convention centre will stage its first event and the casino will see its first punters.
At least, that's the plan according to Marina Bay Sands.
The rest depends on whether construction schedules will be kept and if it receives the necessary regulatory approvals.
Phase two will see the SkyPark and additional retail joints open on June 23.
Plans for the S$7.8 billion integrated resort started nearly four years ago and it's said to be the most expensive development of its kind.
The project has weathered its share of challenges along the way, including high construction costs during the previous economic boom and more recently, the global financial crisis and difficulties in meeting its recruitment targets.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday 21 February 2010
Tourist arrivals expected to increase
Tourist arrivals expected to increase due to integrated resorts
Tourism in Singapore is expected to experience a boom this year thanks to the opening of the integrated resorts.
Industry players say there are now over 950 travel agents in Singapore - an increase of over 100 from the previous year.
Travel agents told MediaCorp that there are now more queries on visiting Universal Studios Singapore.
Some operators are also increasing investments to expand their businesses and gain a bigger share of the tourism dollar.
The two integrated resorts are expected to bring in more tourists to Singapore in the next one to two years.
However, what is important is to entice tourists to stay one more night, which can help the tourism industry to reap more profits.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tourism in Singapore is expected to experience a boom this year thanks to the opening of the integrated resorts.
Industry players say there are now over 950 travel agents in Singapore - an increase of over 100 from the previous year.
Travel agents told MediaCorp that there are now more queries on visiting Universal Studios Singapore.
Some operators are also increasing investments to expand their businesses and gain a bigger share of the tourism dollar.
The two integrated resorts are expected to bring in more tourists to Singapore in the next one to two years.
However, what is important is to entice tourists to stay one more night, which can help the tourism industry to reap more profits.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tourism boost with IR
MM Lee expects tourism boost with integrated resorts
Singapore's future over the next five to 10 years is an "optimistic" one, said Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, and the tourism sector will reflect that.
Speaking in Mandarin at Tanjong Pagar GRC's Chinese New Year celebration dinner Thursday evening, Mr Lee said the two integrated resorts (IRs) have hired about 16,000 Singaporean workers, and tourist arrivals will shoot up.
With a laugh, Mr Lee said: "They want to gamble. I don't understand why they want to lose. You surely will not win."
In reference to Resorts World Sentosa, which opened its casino on Sunday, Mr Lee said "the boss counted S$3.5 million" on the first day and S$3.7 million on the second day.
He added that the Singapore Turf Club had realised it would lose customers to the IRs and wanted to open a casino as well.
"No," said Mr Lee with another laugh, "two is enough".
Hence, in the next 10 years, Singapore will continue to grow, he said, with each sector, such as education and entertainment, seeing improvements.
He added that people used to say Singapore was a quiet place, but every newspaper now says it is very vibrant at night.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore's future over the next five to 10 years is an "optimistic" one, said Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, and the tourism sector will reflect that.
Speaking in Mandarin at Tanjong Pagar GRC's Chinese New Year celebration dinner Thursday evening, Mr Lee said the two integrated resorts (IRs) have hired about 16,000 Singaporean workers, and tourist arrivals will shoot up.
With a laugh, Mr Lee said: "They want to gamble. I don't understand why they want to lose. You surely will not win."
In reference to Resorts World Sentosa, which opened its casino on Sunday, Mr Lee said "the boss counted S$3.5 million" on the first day and S$3.7 million on the second day.
He added that the Singapore Turf Club had realised it would lose customers to the IRs and wanted to open a casino as well.
"No," said Mr Lee with another laugh, "two is enough".
Hence, in the next 10 years, Singapore will continue to grow, he said, with each sector, such as education and entertainment, seeing improvements.
He added that people used to say Singapore was a quiet place, but every newspaper now says it is very vibrant at night.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
RWS-Tiger Airways dedicated flight
Resorts World, Tiger Airways to operate dedicated flight for guests
Resorts World Sentosa and Tiger Airways Singapore have announced plans for a chartered aircraft dedicated to flying overseas guests to Singapore's first integrated resort.
The aircraft will operate as a chartered service for Resorts World Sentosa, transporting guests between Singapore and other cities around the region.
Under the agreement, Resorts World Sentosa will take over the lease of the aircraft.
The plane will ply Tiger Airways' existing region-wide network.
The service is expected to be offered later this year.
In a statement, Tiger Airways said guests can expect a seamless journey that would span air-travel followed by land transfers to Resorts World Sentosa.
Rosalynn Tay, managing director, Tiger Airways Singapore, said: "We are proud to partner Resorts World Sentosa in bringing more visitors to Singapore. This is a real alliance with real benefits to both partners.
"While Tiger Airways gets a new revenue stream and reduced costs, Resorts World Sentosa gets a cost-effective solution to bringing more customers to Singapore's most exciting new destination."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Resorts World Sentosa and Tiger Airways Singapore have announced plans for a chartered aircraft dedicated to flying overseas guests to Singapore's first integrated resort.
The aircraft will operate as a chartered service for Resorts World Sentosa, transporting guests between Singapore and other cities around the region.
Under the agreement, Resorts World Sentosa will take over the lease of the aircraft.
The plane will ply Tiger Airways' existing region-wide network.
The service is expected to be offered later this year.
In a statement, Tiger Airways said guests can expect a seamless journey that would span air-travel followed by land transfers to Resorts World Sentosa.
Rosalynn Tay, managing director, Tiger Airways Singapore, said: "We are proud to partner Resorts World Sentosa in bringing more visitors to Singapore. This is a real alliance with real benefits to both partners.
"While Tiger Airways gets a new revenue stream and reduced costs, Resorts World Sentosa gets a cost-effective solution to bringing more customers to Singapore's most exciting new destination."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Casino-related crimes not surprising
Casino-related crimes not surprising, will not taint reputation of IRs
Security experts are not surprised to see casino-related crimes so soon after its opening.
And they are confident this will not tarnish the reputation of Singapore or the integrated resorts.
The queues when Singapore's first casino at the Resorts World Sentosa opened seemed never-ending.
And some believe the chaos could open the door for potential crime.
Certis CISCO is not the security agency for Resorts World Sentosa. But it believes that if the integrated resort tightens its processes, like having better crowd management and having more security officers on site, that would help to prevent crimes.
Charles Loh, managing director, Security Consulting and Education, Certis CISCO Security, said: "The key is really in the security plan, management plan, from the onset. If you have a proper management plan to manage the access and to manage even the queue and how the people are organised, you would actually help prevent these cases from happening in the first place.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Security experts are not surprised to see casino-related crimes so soon after its opening.
And they are confident this will not tarnish the reputation of Singapore or the integrated resorts.
The queues when Singapore's first casino at the Resorts World Sentosa opened seemed never-ending.
And some believe the chaos could open the door for potential crime.
Certis CISCO is not the security agency for Resorts World Sentosa. But it believes that if the integrated resort tightens its processes, like having better crowd management and having more security officers on site, that would help to prevent crimes.
Charles Loh, managing director, Security Consulting and Education, Certis CISCO Security, said: "The key is really in the security plan, management plan, from the onset. If you have a proper management plan to manage the access and to manage even the queue and how the people are organised, you would actually help prevent these cases from happening in the first place.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
RWS casino attracts 128,000 visitors
RWS casino attracts 128,000 visitors since opening
SINGAPORE: It has been a week since the casino at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) opened. As of Friday evening, it has attracted more than 128,000 visitors as well as its fair share of bouquets and brickbats.
There were long queues on the first two days of its opening and the wait could stretch for as long as two hours. The queues could still come back as RWS was expecting a surge in visitors after dinner on Saturday night, but they won't be as long.
Robin Goh, assistant director for communications, RWS, said: "The queues have kind of tapered off - for now. These queue lines are still here. This being the first non-Chinese New Year weekend, we are expecting large queues to come in as well.
"So we are going to put them (queue lines) here....just in case we need to activate them. This is to make sure that the queues are smooth and to make sure that people don't get all over the place."
Currently, with at least three quarters of the casino opened, RWS insists it is operationally ready.
But the 15,000-square-metre casino will not be able to cater to 20,000 people at any one time even when fully opened.
There have been calls to add more gaming tables but RWS said this has to be approved by the Casino Regulatory Authority.
RWS is also grappling with unhappiness and confusion over the dress code.
Some visitors were turned away for showing up in slippers, singlets and shorts while others in the same attire were allowed in.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
SINGAPORE: It has been a week since the casino at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) opened. As of Friday evening, it has attracted more than 128,000 visitors as well as its fair share of bouquets and brickbats.
There were long queues on the first two days of its opening and the wait could stretch for as long as two hours. The queues could still come back as RWS was expecting a surge in visitors after dinner on Saturday night, but they won't be as long.
Robin Goh, assistant director for communications, RWS, said: "The queues have kind of tapered off - for now. These queue lines are still here. This being the first non-Chinese New Year weekend, we are expecting large queues to come in as well.
"So we are going to put them (queue lines) here....just in case we need to activate them. This is to make sure that the queues are smooth and to make sure that people don't get all over the place."
Currently, with at least three quarters of the casino opened, RWS insists it is operationally ready.
But the 15,000-square-metre casino will not be able to cater to 20,000 people at any one time even when fully opened.
There have been calls to add more gaming tables but RWS said this has to be approved by the Casino Regulatory Authority.
RWS is also grappling with unhappiness and confusion over the dress code.
Some visitors were turned away for showing up in slippers, singlets and shorts while others in the same attire were allowed in.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tuesday 16 February 2010
Singapore's first casino
Singapore's first casino at Resorts World Sentosa opens its doors
Singapore opened the first of two casino resorts Sunday, part of a multi-billion dollar bet to transform itself into a hot tourist destination and reduce the economy's reliance on manufacturing.
The casino at Resorts World Sentosa welcomed its first punter - a middle aged Singaporean woman - at the auspicious time of 12:18 pm (0418 GMT) on the first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year.
When pronounced in the Cantonese dialect, 12:18 sounds like "prosperity".
The first bettor was followed by an initial crowd of about 200 enthusiastic gamblers and within hours of the opening, hundreds more were queuing up outside. Ushers gave out free bottled water and ice cream in the sweltering tropical heat.
The opening - to be followed within months by a second casino resort built by Las Vegas Sands in Singapore's business district - is part of an ambitious plan to transform the city into a key destination for casino high-rollers, business executives and families.
"I'll probably play jackpot. I'm willing to wager around a hundred (dollars) in it," said Tiong Tak Si, 60, a retiree from Brunei.
Resorts World Sentosa, which is on Sentosa island, a former British garrison linked to the main island by bridge, is owned by Malaysian gaming giant Genting Group.
"We have waited a long time for this. Today's opening of the casino is a milestone for Resorts World Sentosa, for Genting Group and for Singapore," said group chairman Lim Kok Thay.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore opened the first of two casino resorts Sunday, part of a multi-billion dollar bet to transform itself into a hot tourist destination and reduce the economy's reliance on manufacturing.
The casino at Resorts World Sentosa welcomed its first punter - a middle aged Singaporean woman - at the auspicious time of 12:18 pm (0418 GMT) on the first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year.
When pronounced in the Cantonese dialect, 12:18 sounds like "prosperity".
The first bettor was followed by an initial crowd of about 200 enthusiastic gamblers and within hours of the opening, hundreds more were queuing up outside. Ushers gave out free bottled water and ice cream in the sweltering tropical heat.
The opening - to be followed within months by a second casino resort built by Las Vegas Sands in Singapore's business district - is part of an ambitious plan to transform the city into a key destination for casino high-rollers, business executives and families.
"I'll probably play jackpot. I'm willing to wager around a hundred (dollars) in it," said Tiong Tak Si, 60, a retiree from Brunei.
Resorts World Sentosa, which is on Sentosa island, a former British garrison linked to the main island by bridge, is owned by Malaysian gaming giant Genting Group.
"We have waited a long time for this. Today's opening of the casino is a milestone for Resorts World Sentosa, for Genting Group and for Singapore," said group chairman Lim Kok Thay.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday 14 February 2010
Happy Chinese New Year 2010
恭祝各界，新年快乐，万事如意！Wishing everyone a prosperous and happy Chinese New Year!
Singapore Arts Festival 2010
Singapore Arts Festival to be "People's and Creation Festival"
"Between You and Me" – that is the connection this year's Singapore Arts Festival wants to build between Singaporeans and the arts.
The festival aims to bring the arts closer to the community through a year-long series of programmes at places such as community centres and regional libraries. It hopes this will be a platform to engage heartlanders.
"When we think about bringing people into the centre, it's really to first engage them deeply with the heart of the festival," said Low Kee Hong, general manager of the festival. "And so, when we bring out something to the heartlands in subsequent editions, there is that connection.
"Previously in the civic cultural district, people assume that it's only for art lovers, and therefore it's not for the ordinary folks. So therefore, (people) don't even... bother to go into the museums or theatres.
Low said that is a mindset that "we want to try and change from this year. So that when we try and bring them out to the city centre, like the Mega Line Dance", people will feel that the Arts Festival is an occasion they can enjoy.
The festival, which starts on May 14, will close with the Mega Line Dance at Marina Bay on June 13. About 20,000 line dancers are expected to take part.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
"Between You and Me" – that is the connection this year's Singapore Arts Festival wants to build between Singaporeans and the arts.
The festival aims to bring the arts closer to the community through a year-long series of programmes at places such as community centres and regional libraries. It hopes this will be a platform to engage heartlanders.
"When we think about bringing people into the centre, it's really to first engage them deeply with the heart of the festival," said Low Kee Hong, general manager of the festival. "And so, when we bring out something to the heartlands in subsequent editions, there is that connection.
"Previously in the civic cultural district, people assume that it's only for art lovers, and therefore it's not for the ordinary folks. So therefore, (people) don't even... bother to go into the museums or theatres.
Low said that is a mindset that "we want to try and change from this year. So that when we try and bring them out to the city centre, like the Mega Line Dance", people will feel that the Arts Festival is an occasion they can enjoy.
The festival, which starts on May 14, will close with the Mega Line Dance at Marina Bay on June 13. About 20,000 line dancers are expected to take part.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wireless@SG auto log-in feature
Wireless@SG offers auto log-in feature
Free wireless Internet access at hotspots around Singapore will now be easier with a new Wireless@SG automatic log-in feature.
According to the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA), the new feature called Seamless and Secure Access (SSA) enables an "always on" experience to users as their devices will automatically connect and log into the Wireless@SG network when entering a hotspot.
This means Wireless@SG users do not have to re-enter their log-in credentials each time they want to access the free wireless service to access various applications, including VoIP, instant messaging and social networking.
The IDA said the SSA feature is being progressively deployed in all Wireless@SG hotspots around Singapore, and full deployment can be expected by September 2010.
The automatic service requires a new Wireless@SG Connect software that has to be downloaded and installed on Wi-Fi enabled mobile devices or notebooks. Through Wireless@SG Connect, users will also find a suite of personalised services and applications such as a Wireless@SG hotspot finder.
The IDA said that with the greater availability of Wireless@SG, businesses and property owners should consider optimising the service through advertising, facility monitoring and location-based services.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Free wireless Internet access at hotspots around Singapore will now be easier with a new Wireless@SG automatic log-in feature.
According to the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA), the new feature called Seamless and Secure Access (SSA) enables an "always on" experience to users as their devices will automatically connect and log into the Wireless@SG network when entering a hotspot.
This means Wireless@SG users do not have to re-enter their log-in credentials each time they want to access the free wireless service to access various applications, including VoIP, instant messaging and social networking.
The IDA said the SSA feature is being progressively deployed in all Wireless@SG hotspots around Singapore, and full deployment can be expected by September 2010.
The automatic service requires a new Wireless@SG Connect software that has to be downloaded and installed on Wi-Fi enabled mobile devices or notebooks. Through Wireless@SG Connect, users will also find a suite of personalised services and applications such as a Wireless@SG hotspot finder.
The IDA said that with the greater availability of Wireless@SG, businesses and property owners should consider optimising the service through advertising, facility monitoring and location-based services.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Resorts World addition to tourism
Resorts World adds to Singapore's tourism landscape: Iswaran
The opening of Resorts World Sentosa and its attractions would add to Singapore's tourism landscape, said Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry S Iswaran on Thursday.
This would result in more opportunities to attract tourists and repeat visitors to Singapore. He was commenting on the announcement of the soft launch of the casino at Resorts World this Sunday, the first day of the Lunar New Year.
Mr Iswaran said: "It is good that Resorts World has announced that they are going to start operations of the casino and other aspects of the IR (integrated resort), in particular in relation to Universal Studios.
"I think this is part of a progression of activities they have started to launch, starting with the hotels and restaurants and other attractions, and they plan to progressively open this.
"So it is a good development. It adds to our tourism landscape in terms of the kinds of attractions that we have, and that means of course more opportunities to attract visitors, tourists and repeat visitors to Singapore.
"That has always been the objective of this IR and the other in Marina Bay, and also the other tourism products in the pipeline."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The opening of Resorts World Sentosa and its attractions would add to Singapore's tourism landscape, said Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry S Iswaran on Thursday.
This would result in more opportunities to attract tourists and repeat visitors to Singapore. He was commenting on the announcement of the soft launch of the casino at Resorts World this Sunday, the first day of the Lunar New Year.
Mr Iswaran said: "It is good that Resorts World has announced that they are going to start operations of the casino and other aspects of the IR (integrated resort), in particular in relation to Universal Studios.
"I think this is part of a progression of activities they have started to launch, starting with the hotels and restaurants and other attractions, and they plan to progressively open this.
"So it is a good development. It adds to our tourism landscape in terms of the kinds of attractions that we have, and that means of course more opportunities to attract visitors, tourists and repeat visitors to Singapore.
"That has always been the objective of this IR and the other in Marina Bay, and also the other tourism products in the pipeline."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
New aviation gallery to open at T2
New aviation gallery to open at Changi Airport's Terminal 2
A new aviation gallery at Changi Airport's Terminal 2 opens on Friday.
The gallery has interactive displays designed to intrigue both young and old. Visitors can also get insights into the airport's ground operations.
One highlight is the more than 600 miniature aircraft hanging from the ceiling, to show the number of flights handled at the airport daily.
Admission is free and the gallery is open 24 hours daily.
Foo Sek Min, executive vice-president, Airport Management, Changi Airport Group, said: "We have noticed that more and more Singaporeans are visiting Changi Airport as a destination.
"They are not travellers, but they come here over the weekends with their families, as dating couples, as students studying, and they visit Changi Airport.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
A new aviation gallery at Changi Airport's Terminal 2 opens on Friday.
The gallery has interactive displays designed to intrigue both young and old. Visitors can also get insights into the airport's ground operations.
One highlight is the more than 600 miniature aircraft hanging from the ceiling, to show the number of flights handled at the airport daily.
Admission is free and the gallery is open 24 hours daily.
Foo Sek Min, executive vice-president, Airport Management, Changi Airport Group, said: "We have noticed that more and more Singaporeans are visiting Changi Airport as a destination.
"They are not travellers, but they come here over the weekends with their families, as dating couples, as students studying, and they visit Changi Airport.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Jewelled arts of Mughal empire
Exhibition of jewelled arts of Mughal empire makes Asian premiere in S'pore
Emperor Shah Jahan, the Indian ruler who built the Taj Mahal, was from the Mughal empire - said to be one of the wealthiest and most powerful dynasties in history.
And now you can get a glimpse of life in the Mughal court, through a glittering exhibition making its Asian premiere in Singapore.
"Treasury of the World: Jewelled Arts of India in the Age of the Mughals" was officially launched by President S R Nathan on Thursday evening.
The exhibition features a dazzling array of more than 400 exquisite jewelled works of the Mughal empire, including a turban ornament set with emeralds and diamonds.
The collection belongs to the son and daughter-in-law of the Amir of Kuwait - who have one of the greatest array of Islamic art.
The exhibition is open to the public till June 27.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Emperor Shah Jahan, the Indian ruler who built the Taj Mahal, was from the Mughal empire - said to be one of the wealthiest and most powerful dynasties in history.
And now you can get a glimpse of life in the Mughal court, through a glittering exhibition making its Asian premiere in Singapore.
"Treasury of the World: Jewelled Arts of India in the Age of the Mughals" was officially launched by President S R Nathan on Thursday evening.
The exhibition features a dazzling array of more than 400 exquisite jewelled works of the Mughal empire, including a turban ornament set with emeralds and diamonds.
The collection belongs to the son and daughter-in-law of the Amir of Kuwait - who have one of the greatest array of Islamic art.
The exhibition is open to the public till June 27.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
H1N1 flu alert status returns to green
Singapore's H1N1 flu alert status returns to green: MOH
Nearly ten months after Singapore's health authorities raised the H1N1 flu alert, the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Friday announced that it has stepped down the colour code from Yellow to Green.
Singapore raised its flu alert level to Yellow on 28 April 2009 for the first time, and then two days later to Orange. MOH then revised it downwards to Yellow on 11 May 2009.
Now as the flu alert level is back to Green, MOH said its experts will continue to actively monitor the situation locally and around the world. And the ministry will be ready to step up appropriate precautionary and control measures, should the circumstance turn adversely.
MOH said the Influenza A (H1N1) virus continues to be the predominant flu strain circulating globally and in Singapore. But the nature of the infection has been mild and has so far shown no signs of increase in severity.
At the polyclinics, the weekly number of attendances for Acute Respiratory Infections has largely been below the epidemic level since the week of August 9-15 last year.
As for hospitals, there have been more than 1,600 admissions from complications related to the Influenza A (H1N1) infection since July last year. 100 were admitted to the intensive care unit and 20 people died.
Meanwhile, as part of continued vigilance and good patient care, acute hospitals will continue to adhere to visiting times and limit the number of visitors per patient, in order to limit cross infection in hospitals.
The public has been strongly urged to be vaccinated, especially if they are at higher risk of developing complications.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Nearly ten months after Singapore's health authorities raised the H1N1 flu alert, the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Friday announced that it has stepped down the colour code from Yellow to Green.
Singapore raised its flu alert level to Yellow on 28 April 2009 for the first time, and then two days later to Orange. MOH then revised it downwards to Yellow on 11 May 2009.
Now as the flu alert level is back to Green, MOH said its experts will continue to actively monitor the situation locally and around the world. And the ministry will be ready to step up appropriate precautionary and control measures, should the circumstance turn adversely.
MOH said the Influenza A (H1N1) virus continues to be the predominant flu strain circulating globally and in Singapore. But the nature of the infection has been mild and has so far shown no signs of increase in severity.
At the polyclinics, the weekly number of attendances for Acute Respiratory Infections has largely been below the epidemic level since the week of August 9-15 last year.
As for hospitals, there have been more than 1,600 admissions from complications related to the Influenza A (H1N1) infection since July last year. 100 were admitted to the intensive care unit and 20 people died.
Meanwhile, as part of continued vigilance and good patient care, acute hospitals will continue to adhere to visiting times and limit the number of visitors per patient, in order to limit cross infection in hospitals.
The public has been strongly urged to be vaccinated, especially if they are at higher risk of developing complications.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sneak preview tickets for casino & theme park
50% of sneak preview tickets for casino & theme park snapped up
Fifty per cent of the sneak preview tickets to check out Singapore's first casino and theme park were snapped up when they went on sale on Friday, despite the fact that none of the 20 rides and shows at Universal Studios will be ready.
In fact, Resorts World Sentosa said tickets for the theme park are already sold out for four of the eight-day preview period.
People turned up hours before sales started to get the preview tickets to the theme park. They are aiming to be among the first to check out the attraction when it opens for a sneak peek this Sunday - the first day of the Lunar New Year.
Other than the theme park preview tickets, some Singaporeans and PRs also bought their casino levies.
On Sunday, the casino will open at 12.18pm, an auspicious time, while the theme park will open later, at 5pm. Final touch-ups are underway, especially the Lunar New Year decorations.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Fifty per cent of the sneak preview tickets to check out Singapore's first casino and theme park were snapped up when they went on sale on Friday, despite the fact that none of the 20 rides and shows at Universal Studios will be ready.
In fact, Resorts World Sentosa said tickets for the theme park are already sold out for four of the eight-day preview period.
People turned up hours before sales started to get the preview tickets to the theme park. They are aiming to be among the first to check out the attraction when it opens for a sneak peek this Sunday - the first day of the Lunar New Year.
Other than the theme park preview tickets, some Singaporeans and PRs also bought their casino levies.
On Sunday, the casino will open at 12.18pm, an auspicious time, while the theme park will open later, at 5pm. Final touch-ups are underway, especially the Lunar New Year decorations.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
River Hongbao celebrations open
River Hongbao celebrations open with performances from Chengdu & Taiwan
The annual River Hongbao celebrations for the Lunar New Year were launched on Friday evening.
Performers from Chengdu and Taiwan added an international feel to it. Visitors enjoyed an award-winning arts show from Taiwan performers as well.
Singapore groups and schools also put up performances.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean graced the opening at the Marina Bay Floating Platform.
The festival will close on February 20, which is the seventh day of the Lunar New Year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The annual River Hongbao celebrations for the Lunar New Year were launched on Friday evening.
Performers from Chengdu and Taiwan added an international feel to it. Visitors enjoyed an award-winning arts show from Taiwan performers as well.
Singapore groups and schools also put up performances.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean graced the opening at the Marina Bay Floating Platform.
The festival will close on February 20, which is the seventh day of the Lunar New Year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Universal Studios theme park
Tickets for sneak peek period for Universal Studios theme park sold out
Resorts World Sentosa has said that tickets for the eight-day sneak peek period at its Universal Studios theme park - which starts on Sunday - were sold out by about 3.45pm on Saturday.
Resorts World Sentosa did not reveal the full figures, but it is understood the number of tickets runs into the thousands.
Observers said the launch of the integrated resort will cap a milestone in Singapore's aim to be a tourist destination.
The theme park opens at 5pm on Sunday, after the 12.18pm opening of the casino.
Meanwhile, with the casino at Resorts World Sentosa opening on Sunday, imitation casino-related items and candy that looks like gambling tokens are getting popular with Singaporeans.
The imitation tokens, which cost between S$50 and S$188, are the best sellers - making up 50 per cent of sales.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Resorts World Sentosa has said that tickets for the eight-day sneak peek period at its Universal Studios theme park - which starts on Sunday - were sold out by about 3.45pm on Saturday.
Resorts World Sentosa did not reveal the full figures, but it is understood the number of tickets runs into the thousands.
Observers said the launch of the integrated resort will cap a milestone in Singapore's aim to be a tourist destination.
The theme park opens at 5pm on Sunday, after the 12.18pm opening of the casino.
Meanwhile, with the casino at Resorts World Sentosa opening on Sunday, imitation casino-related items and candy that looks like gambling tokens are getting popular with Singaporeans.
The imitation tokens, which cost between S$50 and S$188, are the best sellers - making up 50 per cent of sales.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday 4 February 2010
YOG village ready for use by June
Upgraded Youth Olympic Games village ready for use by June
The Youth Olympic Games village has been upgraded and will be ready for use by June this year.
Located at the Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the village will house 5,000 athletes and officials.
It is now undergoing the finishing touches before the village is officially opened on August 10.
Upgrading works started in December 2008.
The village is divided into two main areas - the Residential Zone and the Village Square.
Major works included sprucing up the 3,000 rooms, fixing air-conditioning and even changing some of the mattresses.
Improvements works were carried out on the meeting rooms, lecture theatres and the training facilities, while the dining area capacity has been increased to 1,800 seats.
Sheryl Lim, Director of Youth Olympic Village, said: "We are using the existing facilities, the training facilities as well as all the tutorial rooms here and the dining halls. So there is nothing that we are building brand new, so we are really prudent in managing our budget."
Retail and other features like banking facilities will also be made available.
Another major area is the Village Square, which will host the Culture and Education Programme for the Games.
This is where 205 booths representing all the National Olympic Councils will display the diversity of world cultures.
The village will also be environmentally-friendly, but more importantly, the whole upgrading effort will leave a legacy for the students of NTU to enjoy after the Games.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Youth Olympic Games village has been upgraded and will be ready for use by June this year.
Located at the Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the village will house 5,000 athletes and officials.
It is now undergoing the finishing touches before the village is officially opened on August 10.
Upgrading works started in December 2008.
The village is divided into two main areas - the Residential Zone and the Village Square.
Major works included sprucing up the 3,000 rooms, fixing air-conditioning and even changing some of the mattresses.
Improvements works were carried out on the meeting rooms, lecture theatres and the training facilities, while the dining area capacity has been increased to 1,800 seats.
Sheryl Lim, Director of Youth Olympic Village, said: "We are using the existing facilities, the training facilities as well as all the tutorial rooms here and the dining halls. So there is nothing that we are building brand new, so we are really prudent in managing our budget."
Retail and other features like banking facilities will also be made available.
Another major area is the Village Square, which will host the Culture and Education Programme for the Games.
This is where 205 booths representing all the National Olympic Councils will display the diversity of world cultures.
The village will also be environmentally-friendly, but more importantly, the whole upgrading effort will leave a legacy for the students of NTU to enjoy after the Games.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
New library in Serangoon
NLB to open new library in Serangoon in Mar 2011
Serangoon residents will have a new public library in March next year.
The National Library Board (NLB) announced on Wednesday that the new Serangoon Public Library will be located at "nex".
"nex" is a mega eco-friendly mall linked to the new 16-bay Serangoon Bus Interchange and the stations of the new Circle line and existing North East line.
The Serangoon Public Library will cater to some 122,000 residents in Serangoon.
It will cover an area of about 17,000 square feet, and start with a collection of about 150,000 books, magazines and audio-visual material.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Serangoon residents will have a new public library in March next year.
The National Library Board (NLB) announced on Wednesday that the new Serangoon Public Library will be located at "nex".
"nex" is a mega eco-friendly mall linked to the new 16-bay Serangoon Bus Interchange and the stations of the new Circle line and existing North East line.
The Serangoon Public Library will cater to some 122,000 residents in Serangoon.
It will cover an area of about 17,000 square feet, and start with a collection of about 150,000 books, magazines and audio-visual material.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
More trains, buses for Airshow
More trains, buses for Airshow visitors
SMRT is adding extra train trips between Tanah Merah and Changi Airport stations this weekend for visitors to the Singapore Airshow in Changi.
Between 8am and 7.30pm on Saturday and Sunday, the trains will leave every seven minutes.
SMRT will also operate a bus shuttle service between Changi Airport Terminals 2 & 3 and Changi Exhibition Centre at a frequency of three to five minutes.
The first shuttle service will leave Changi Airport at 8am and the last service will leave Changi Exhibition Centre at 7pm.
More details about the shuttle service can be found on the Singapore Airshow website.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
SMRT is adding extra train trips between Tanah Merah and Changi Airport stations this weekend for visitors to the Singapore Airshow in Changi.
Between 8am and 7.30pm on Saturday and Sunday, the trains will leave every seven minutes.
SMRT will also operate a bus shuttle service between Changi Airport Terminals 2 & 3 and Changi Exhibition Centre at a frequency of three to five minutes.
The first shuttle service will leave Changi Airport at 8am and the last service will leave Changi Exhibition Centre at 7pm.
More details about the shuttle service can be found on the Singapore Airshow website.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Monday 1 February 2010
River Hongbao celebrations
More foreign participation in River Hongbao celebrations
This year's River Hongbao celebrations will see more participation from foreign countries, including China.
One example is having art decorations from the Chinese city of Chengdu.
Residents from four constituencies will also gather for a gala dinner, where non-Chinese and new citizens will be invited. The dinner will be held from January 17 to January 20.
To usher in the Year of the Tiger, the dinner menu will have a tiger theme.
The 24th River Hongbao will be held at The Float @ Marina Bay from February 12 to February 20.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
This year's River Hongbao celebrations will see more participation from foreign countries, including China.
One example is having art decorations from the Chinese city of Chengdu.
Residents from four constituencies will also gather for a gala dinner, where non-Chinese and new citizens will be invited. The dinner will be held from January 17 to January 20.
To usher in the Year of the Tiger, the dinner menu will have a tiger theme.
The 24th River Hongbao will be held at The Float @ Marina Bay from February 12 to February 20.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thaipusam festival
Thaipusam festival attracts 9,500 devotees this year
The annual Thaipusam festival drew some 9,500 devotees this year - about 400 more than last year. And they all fulfilled their vows to the Hindu deity Lord Muruga.
Devotees walked the four-kilometre stretch from the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple in Serangoon Road to the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple in Tank Road.
Organisers said more people took part this year because it was held over the weekend.
Most of the devotees carried pots filled with milk, called the paal kudam. Others shouldered kaavadis - tower-shaped spiked structures - as a form of thanksgiving or family tradition.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The annual Thaipusam festival drew some 9,500 devotees this year - about 400 more than last year. And they all fulfilled their vows to the Hindu deity Lord Muruga.
Devotees walked the four-kilometre stretch from the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple in Serangoon Road to the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple in Tank Road.
Organisers said more people took part this year because it was held over the weekend.
Most of the devotees carried pots filled with milk, called the paal kudam. Others shouldered kaavadis - tower-shaped spiked structures - as a form of thanksgiving or family tradition.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
S'pore Airshow all set for take off
S'pore Airshow all set for take off
Asia's largest aviation and defence exhibition, the Singapore Airshow, will take place on Tuesday. Besides the commercial aspects, experts said defence contracts are something that will also be keenly observed.
Official Website
http://www.singaporeairshow.com
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Asia's largest aviation and defence exhibition, the Singapore Airshow, will take place on Tuesday. Besides the commercial aspects, experts said defence contracts are something that will also be keenly observed.
Official Website
http://www.singaporeairshow.com
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
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