Cross-border transport gets boost
From July 2011, taxis plying both sides of the Singapore-Malaysia border will be able to pick up and drop off passengers anywhere in their domestic countries.
The implementation date of this taxi rule change was agreed on Wednesday at the eighth working meeting of the Malaysia-Singapore Joint Ministerial Committee.
Currently, cross-border taxis are allowed to pick up and drop off passengers at just two places - Ban San Street near Bugis, and Pasar Bakti terminal in Johor.
There are some 400 authorised cabs which offer cross-border services - 200 in Singapore and 200 in Malaysia.
The Joint Ministerial Committee also agreed to boost connectivity by further increasing the quota for cross border bus services.
It noted that additional cross-border bus services between Singapore and Iskandar Malaysia have been approved and are being implemented.
A joint engineering study for the Rapid Transit System (RTS) link between Iskandar Malaysia and Singapore was also approved.
The statement said officials from both sides will endeavour to gather international best practices in the implementation of a dual co-located Customers, Immigration and Quarantine system to complement the RTS link.
The Joint Ministerial Committee noted with satisfaction that Khazanah Nasional Berhad and Temasek Holdings have progressed in the discussion on the development of an iconic project with a wellness theme in Iskandar Malaysia.
The project is targeted to be launched in May 2011.
The statement also said the river cleaning project in the Iskandar Malaysia is progressing well.
The Joint Ministerial Committee also endorsed the recommendations by the Tourism Work Group on the development and marketing of a trans-boundary, joint eco-tourism attraction involving Singapore's Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and Malaysia's three Ramsar sites of Sungai Pulai, Pulau Kukup and Tanjung Piai.
The first phase will involve the twinning of Pulau Kukup and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday, 31 March 2011
Free entry to Malay Heritage Centre from April
Free entry to Malay Heritage Centre from April
The Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) is offering free entry for the public in the month of April, ahead of its closure in May for redevelopment.
Members of the public can also look forward to complimentary tours.
The closure of the museum in May will be followed by the closure of the compound later in July.
Despite the closure of both the museum and compound, the heritage centre will continue to offer off-site programmes for the public including an inaugural children's festival, and a Heritage Hunt around Kampong Glam.
The heritage centre will re-open in June 2012.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) is offering free entry for the public in the month of April, ahead of its closure in May for redevelopment.
Members of the public can also look forward to complimentary tours.
The closure of the museum in May will be followed by the closure of the compound later in July.
Despite the closure of both the museum and compound, the heritage centre will continue to offer off-site programmes for the public including an inaugural children's festival, and a Heritage Hunt around Kampong Glam.
The heritage centre will re-open in June 2012.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tuesday, 29 March 2011
SIA starts flights to Sao Paulo
SIA starts flights to Sao Paulo
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has started its first direct flight to Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Flight SQ68 departed early Monday morning on its inaugural flight from Singapore Changi Airport to Sao Paulo's Guarulhos International Airport via the Spanish city of Barcelona.
Sao Paulo is SIA's first destination in South America, which has become the sixth continent in its route network.
SIA said the new three-times-weekly service also strengthens Changi Airport's status as a global hub, as SIA is the first to offer direct flights between Singapore and South America.
SIA is confident that travel demand to Brazil will be strong, with such high-profile events as the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympic Games lined up in Brazil.
Similarly, it hopes that Brazilians will take the opportunity to visit Singapore and use Changi Airport as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has started its first direct flight to Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Flight SQ68 departed early Monday morning on its inaugural flight from Singapore Changi Airport to Sao Paulo's Guarulhos International Airport via the Spanish city of Barcelona.
Sao Paulo is SIA's first destination in South America, which has become the sixth continent in its route network.
SIA said the new three-times-weekly service also strengthens Changi Airport's status as a global hub, as SIA is the first to offer direct flights between Singapore and South America.
SIA is confident that travel demand to Brazil will be strong, with such high-profile events as the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympic Games lined up in Brazil.
Similarly, it hopes that Brazilians will take the opportunity to visit Singapore and use Changi Airport as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
"Heritage bridges" to show cultural history
"Heritage bridges" to showcase Singapore's rich cultural history
Two overhead bridges in Singapore have been spruced up and decorated with photographs and information, so that people who use the bridges can know more about the historical significance of the area they are in.
The National Heritage Board (NHB) has installed galleries on the history of the Kampong Glam and Balestier precincts. This community outreach programme is driven by the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall and the Malay Heritage Centre.
Alvin Tan, who is the Director of NHB's Heritage Institutions, said: "Each heritage bridge features historical landmarks, as well as interesting information about the communities, the trades, the activities that were historically unique to each of the areas where the bridges are now located."
Mr Tan said the bridges were also chosen for their accessibility and high traffic flow.
The heritage bridge galleries were launched on Tuesday at two locations, one along a bridge connecting Nicoll Highway and Suntec City, and another connecting Thomson Medical Centre to Balestier Hill Shopping Centre.
The galleries will be available for the next three months.
Member for Parliament for Jalan Besar GRC Ms Denise Phua, said displaying Singapore's history on public spaces was an innovative way to connect Singaporeans to their roots.
Ms Phua, who was guest-of-honour at the launch, said: "We tend to take for granted our rich cultural heritage, our racial harmony, our ethnic make-up and our religious harmony in Singapore. And I think it's very important that we know that we are a product of our history as well. The part of history that's valuable, that's rich, that makes part of what Singapore is. We need to remember that and keep it in posterity."
That was what four young Singaporeans discovered in their research for the heritage bridge project. Ivan Yeo and three other Secondary Two students from Hwa Chong Institution trawled through archives and interviewed shopkeepers and residents in the Balestier area.
Ivan said: "I learnt about the social history of Balestier, and I also learnt that Singapore has a rich history. So we as teenagers should and can do our part to document this history so that our future generations can learn more about Singapore's history."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Two overhead bridges in Singapore have been spruced up and decorated with photographs and information, so that people who use the bridges can know more about the historical significance of the area they are in.
The National Heritage Board (NHB) has installed galleries on the history of the Kampong Glam and Balestier precincts. This community outreach programme is driven by the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall and the Malay Heritage Centre.
Alvin Tan, who is the Director of NHB's Heritage Institutions, said: "Each heritage bridge features historical landmarks, as well as interesting information about the communities, the trades, the activities that were historically unique to each of the areas where the bridges are now located."
Mr Tan said the bridges were also chosen for their accessibility and high traffic flow.
The heritage bridge galleries were launched on Tuesday at two locations, one along a bridge connecting Nicoll Highway and Suntec City, and another connecting Thomson Medical Centre to Balestier Hill Shopping Centre.
The galleries will be available for the next three months.
Member for Parliament for Jalan Besar GRC Ms Denise Phua, said displaying Singapore's history on public spaces was an innovative way to connect Singaporeans to their roots.
Ms Phua, who was guest-of-honour at the launch, said: "We tend to take for granted our rich cultural heritage, our racial harmony, our ethnic make-up and our religious harmony in Singapore. And I think it's very important that we know that we are a product of our history as well. The part of history that's valuable, that's rich, that makes part of what Singapore is. We need to remember that and keep it in posterity."
That was what four young Singaporeans discovered in their research for the heritage bridge project. Ivan Yeo and three other Secondary Two students from Hwa Chong Institution trawled through archives and interviewed shopkeepers and residents in the Balestier area.
Ivan said: "I learnt about the social history of Balestier, and I also learnt that Singapore has a rich history. So we as teenagers should and can do our part to document this history so that our future generations can learn more about Singapore's history."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
SGD reaches new record-high against USD
Singapore dollar reaches new record-high against US dollar
The Singapore dollar touched a new record-high against the U.S. dollar in late Asia trade, with US$1 quoted as low as S$1.2626 - breaching the previous all-time low for the greenback at S$1.2637 on March 7.
This came as investor sentiment turned bullish on Asian assets on news that progress had been made in cooling reactors at a stricken nuclear power plant in Japan.
Market watchers say gains for the Sing dollar are likely to be mirrored by strength in other regional currencies such as the Malaysian ringgit, Korean won, thai Baht, and the Philippine Peso.
A bigger-than-expected drop in sales of existing homes in the U.S also saw liquidity flow back into the Asian region.
But analysts expect the Sing dollar to weaken slightly by the end of the year as the US economic recovery gains traction.
"If I were to put a year end target for the US Sing dollar perhaps we may see the dollar strengthening i.e..Sing dollar weakening from the current level to something like 1.29 mainly because of the stronger US economy than anything else," said Mr Song Seng Wun, regional economist for CIMB.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Singapore dollar touched a new record-high against the U.S. dollar in late Asia trade, with US$1 quoted as low as S$1.2626 - breaching the previous all-time low for the greenback at S$1.2637 on March 7.
This came as investor sentiment turned bullish on Asian assets on news that progress had been made in cooling reactors at a stricken nuclear power plant in Japan.
Market watchers say gains for the Sing dollar are likely to be mirrored by strength in other regional currencies such as the Malaysian ringgit, Korean won, thai Baht, and the Philippine Peso.
A bigger-than-expected drop in sales of existing homes in the U.S also saw liquidity flow back into the Asian region.
But analysts expect the Sing dollar to weaken slightly by the end of the year as the US economic recovery gains traction.
"If I were to put a year end target for the US Sing dollar perhaps we may see the dollar strengthening i.e..Sing dollar weakening from the current level to something like 1.29 mainly because of the stronger US economy than anything else," said Mr Song Seng Wun, regional economist for CIMB.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Monday, 28 March 2011
Budget airlines more resilient against rising fuel prices
Budget airlines more resilient against rising fuel prices
Analysts say rising fuel prices will have a more severe impact on legacy carriers than budget airines, and a US$10 increase in the price of a barrel of fuel will likely reduce airlines' operating profits by between 20 and 28%.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates that for every one dollar increase in oil price per barrel, the airline industry needs to recover US$1.6 billion in additional costs.
Aviation analysts say airlines will pass on these rising fuel costs to consumers in the form of fuel surcharges and increased airfares.
"Budget airlines will be more resilient because after all the price increases they will still command the lowest fares compared to the legacy airlines; and there will be some downgrades of travelers from the legacy airlines to the budget airlines," said Mr John Rachmat, analyst for regional transport and consumers, RBS.
While higher fuel prices could erode the thin margins of low-cost carriers, analysts say these airlines still have a few things going for them.
"Low cost carriers have certain benefits in the current environment because one, they are very-well managed, very nimble and most of the low-cost carriers have aircrafts that are very fuel efficient," said Mr Shukor Yusof, aviation analyst for Standard & Poor's.
Still, analysts expect that if the political crisis in the Middle East and North Africa deepens, more carriers will consider hedging their exposure to oil prices.
So far, Garuda and Thai Airways have announced their hedging plans.
Meanwhile, analysts say Korean Air and Aseana Airlines will be affected by less demand for travel to and from Japan because of the twin threats of earthquake aftershocks and radiation leaks.
These airlines garner 16 to 20% of their revenue from Japan, compared with 4 to 6% for Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines.
Analysts say budget carriers in Southeast Asia such as Tiger Airways, Air Asia and Cebu Pacific will likely not be affected by the disaster in Japan.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Analysts say rising fuel prices will have a more severe impact on legacy carriers than budget airines, and a US$10 increase in the price of a barrel of fuel will likely reduce airlines' operating profits by between 20 and 28%.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates that for every one dollar increase in oil price per barrel, the airline industry needs to recover US$1.6 billion in additional costs.
Aviation analysts say airlines will pass on these rising fuel costs to consumers in the form of fuel surcharges and increased airfares.
"Budget airlines will be more resilient because after all the price increases they will still command the lowest fares compared to the legacy airlines; and there will be some downgrades of travelers from the legacy airlines to the budget airlines," said Mr John Rachmat, analyst for regional transport and consumers, RBS.
While higher fuel prices could erode the thin margins of low-cost carriers, analysts say these airlines still have a few things going for them.
"Low cost carriers have certain benefits in the current environment because one, they are very-well managed, very nimble and most of the low-cost carriers have aircrafts that are very fuel efficient," said Mr Shukor Yusof, aviation analyst for Standard & Poor's.
Still, analysts expect that if the political crisis in the Middle East and North Africa deepens, more carriers will consider hedging their exposure to oil prices.
So far, Garuda and Thai Airways have announced their hedging plans.
Meanwhile, analysts say Korean Air and Aseana Airlines will be affected by less demand for travel to and from Japan because of the twin threats of earthquake aftershocks and radiation leaks.
These airlines garner 16 to 20% of their revenue from Japan, compared with 4 to 6% for Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines.
Analysts say budget carriers in Southeast Asia such as Tiger Airways, Air Asia and Cebu Pacific will likely not be affected by the disaster in Japan.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Experience Africa at Asian Civilisations Museum
Experience Africa at Asian Civilisations Museum
The Asian Civilisations Museum is hosting a weekend festival, Amazing Africa, which offers a rare chance for visitors to soak up the sights and sounds of Africa.
Some of the highlights include dancing and story telling by an award-winning storyteller.
Besides international acts, organisers made the effort to involve the local African community.
Unofficially, there are about 400 members who meet once a month.
Asian Civilisations Museum deputy director T Sundraraj said: "It was a bit difficult to find Africans within Singapore because the community is relatively small.
"But once we made contact with them, they were so excited about what we were doing and came forward to work with us very closely".
One of them was 35-year-old Cristelle Mouyelo who hails from Cameroon. She has been calling Singapore "home" since 2008.
But before making the big move, she had one small concern - where in Singapore could she braid her hair?
"Luckily, on Orchard Road, I met a lady from Ivory Coast," Ms Mouyelo said.
"As soon as I saw her - she had braids on her hair - I just ran to her, I didn't even say hi -- I said 'please can you tell me where you did your hair?'
"She introduced me to another lady, and that's how we got the community together, really more of the girls. Because for an African lady, not being able to do her hair is an issue."
Other ways to "experience" Africa include getting a face paint, which is extremely popular in South Africa, and a common sight at celebrations and festivals.
Amazing Africa runs this weekend, at the Asian Civilisations Museum from 12pm to 5pm. Admission is free.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Asian Civilisations Museum is hosting a weekend festival, Amazing Africa, which offers a rare chance for visitors to soak up the sights and sounds of Africa.
Some of the highlights include dancing and story telling by an award-winning storyteller.
Besides international acts, organisers made the effort to involve the local African community.
Unofficially, there are about 400 members who meet once a month.
Asian Civilisations Museum deputy director T Sundraraj said: "It was a bit difficult to find Africans within Singapore because the community is relatively small.
"But once we made contact with them, they were so excited about what we were doing and came forward to work with us very closely".
One of them was 35-year-old Cristelle Mouyelo who hails from Cameroon. She has been calling Singapore "home" since 2008.
But before making the big move, she had one small concern - where in Singapore could she braid her hair?
"Luckily, on Orchard Road, I met a lady from Ivory Coast," Ms Mouyelo said.
"As soon as I saw her - she had braids on her hair - I just ran to her, I didn't even say hi -- I said 'please can you tell me where you did your hair?'
"She introduced me to another lady, and that's how we got the community together, really more of the girls. Because for an African lady, not being able to do her hair is an issue."
Other ways to "experience" Africa include getting a face paint, which is extremely popular in South Africa, and a common sight at celebrations and festivals.
Amazing Africa runs this weekend, at the Asian Civilisations Museum from 12pm to 5pm. Admission is free.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Slight haze expected over next few days
Slight haze expected in S'pore over next few days
Singapore may experience slight haze over the next few days.
The National Environment Agency said satellite pictures over Sumatra detected isolated hot spots, but no smoke plumes were observed.
The 24-hour PSI reading at 4pm on Saturday was 35, which is within the "good" range.
Wet weather conditions are expected over the region in the next few days, although slight haze may still be seen.
Callers to the MediaCorp hotline said the skies appear hazy, while others complained of a burning smell.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore may experience slight haze over the next few days.
The National Environment Agency said satellite pictures over Sumatra detected isolated hot spots, but no smoke plumes were observed.
The 24-hour PSI reading at 4pm on Saturday was 35, which is within the "good" range.
Wet weather conditions are expected over the region in the next few days, although slight haze may still be seen.
Callers to the MediaCorp hotline said the skies appear hazy, while others complained of a burning smell.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Traditional Chinese wedding exhibition
Traditional Chinese wedding exhibition at National Library
The National Library at Victoria Street is holding a Traditional Chinese wedding exhibition from now to April 6, to help the public understand the meaning behind traditional rituals, from marriage proposals and dowry preparation to tea ceremonies.
The exhibition's centrepiece is a 92-year-old authentic wedding sedan flown in specially from Fujian, China.
But how relevant is this exhibition for modern Singapore?
Gallery owner and curator Sean Lui said: "Fortunately, we have been seeing increasing demands (for a Chinese wedding ceremony) in the last few years.
"More and more couples are willing to go through a Chinese wedding ceremony, but are not able to find reliable sources of information to learn (about the rituals)".
Mr Lui said he sees about 20 to 30 prospective couples a month who wish to organise a traditional ceremony.
Young brides- and grooms-to-be are not the only ones who are interested.
Many older couples are also renewing their wedding vows the traditional way.
Mr Lui said there have been about 50 couples who said they wanted to be involved in the Chinese wedding exhibition. He added that most of them wanted to take photographs in traditional Chinese costumes for keepsakes.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The National Library at Victoria Street is holding a Traditional Chinese wedding exhibition from now to April 6, to help the public understand the meaning behind traditional rituals, from marriage proposals and dowry preparation to tea ceremonies.
The exhibition's centrepiece is a 92-year-old authentic wedding sedan flown in specially from Fujian, China.
But how relevant is this exhibition for modern Singapore?
Gallery owner and curator Sean Lui said: "Fortunately, we have been seeing increasing demands (for a Chinese wedding ceremony) in the last few years.
"More and more couples are willing to go through a Chinese wedding ceremony, but are not able to find reliable sources of information to learn (about the rituals)".
Mr Lui said he sees about 20 to 30 prospective couples a month who wish to organise a traditional ceremony.
Young brides- and grooms-to-be are not the only ones who are interested.
Many older couples are also renewing their wedding vows the traditional way.
Mr Lui said there have been about 50 couples who said they wanted to be involved in the Chinese wedding exhibition. He added that most of them wanted to take photographs in traditional Chinese costumes for keepsakes.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Armenian church celebrates 175 years
Armenian church celebrates 175 years
The Armenian community in Singapore celebrated the 175th anniversary of its church yesterday, with more than 160 Armenians from 14 countries flying in to attend the festivities.
The Church of St Gregory the Illuminator in Hill Street is Singapore's oldest Christian church, and was gazetted as a national monument in 1973.
To mark the occasion, the trustees of the church organised a gala dinner last Saturday at the Raffles Hotel a uniquely Singaporean landmark that was opened in 1887 by Armenian brothers Tigran and Aviet Sarkies.
Yesterday, a holy mass at the church was officiated by the Archbishop of Armenia, who flew in for the event.
Speaking to The Straits Times after the event, Foreign Minister George Yeo, who also attended the mass, said that the Armenian church and community were an important part of Singapore's heritage.
There are around 80 Armenians living here. Though small in number, the community has doubled over the past five years, mostly due to immigration from Armenia. About 10 Armenians have also been born here in the last two years.
Referring to small communities as the "jewels in our crown", Mr Yeo said: "They are each important, they should each be appreciated, and they should each be allowed to shine."
The Armenian Minister of Diaspora, Ms Hranush Hakobyan, was also present.
-News courtesy of Omy-
The Armenian community in Singapore celebrated the 175th anniversary of its church yesterday, with more than 160 Armenians from 14 countries flying in to attend the festivities.
The Church of St Gregory the Illuminator in Hill Street is Singapore's oldest Christian church, and was gazetted as a national monument in 1973.
To mark the occasion, the trustees of the church organised a gala dinner last Saturday at the Raffles Hotel a uniquely Singaporean landmark that was opened in 1887 by Armenian brothers Tigran and Aviet Sarkies.
Yesterday, a holy mass at the church was officiated by the Archbishop of Armenia, who flew in for the event.
Speaking to The Straits Times after the event, Foreign Minister George Yeo, who also attended the mass, said that the Armenian church and community were an important part of Singapore's heritage.
There are around 80 Armenians living here. Though small in number, the community has doubled over the past five years, mostly due to immigration from Armenia. About 10 Armenians have also been born here in the last two years.
Referring to small communities as the "jewels in our crown", Mr Yeo said: "They are each important, they should each be appreciated, and they should each be allowed to shine."
The Armenian Minister of Diaspora, Ms Hranush Hakobyan, was also present.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Sunday, 27 March 2011
CW5 - Cross Border Bus Service
New cross border bus service launched on 27 March 2011
JB -- Newton Circus (Singapore)
http://www.causewaylink.com.my/
Friday, 25 March 2011
1st casino vs gambler lawsuit to go to open court
First casino vs gambler lawsuit to go to open court
The first lawsuit by a casino here to get back money from a gambler is now likely to go to trial in open court, as the High Court, on Friday, granted him a chance to argue his case.
Integrated Resort (IR), Marina Bay Sands (MBS), had wanted the courts to give a summary judgement in their suit against casino patron, Mr Lester Ong Boon Lin, 30, which would see the judgement ruled in their favour.
In chamber hearings on Friday, the High Court did not allow this application.
Mr Ong allegedly owes MBS more than S$240,800.
MediaCorp first reported that MBS was suing Mr Ong for alleged non-payment of the money in credit extension.
The IR claims that he is a premium player while he disputes this and the legality of the credit extension.
MBS had also earlier applied to seal court documents for this case but this application is still pending.
Mr Ong's lawyer, Mr Sunil Singh Panoo, of Dhillon & Partners said that his client is currently overseas and will discuss the case with Mr Ong soon.
The case started last October when MBS first filed its writ of summons against Mr Ong after failing to get payment from him.
Previous media reports said Mr Ong's father is the owner of a famous nasi lemak business and that Mr Ong had lost S$1.8 million in gambling.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The first lawsuit by a casino here to get back money from a gambler is now likely to go to trial in open court, as the High Court, on Friday, granted him a chance to argue his case.
Integrated Resort (IR), Marina Bay Sands (MBS), had wanted the courts to give a summary judgement in their suit against casino patron, Mr Lester Ong Boon Lin, 30, which would see the judgement ruled in their favour.
In chamber hearings on Friday, the High Court did not allow this application.
Mr Ong allegedly owes MBS more than S$240,800.
MediaCorp first reported that MBS was suing Mr Ong for alleged non-payment of the money in credit extension.
The IR claims that he is a premium player while he disputes this and the legality of the credit extension.
MBS had also earlier applied to seal court documents for this case but this application is still pending.
Mr Ong's lawyer, Mr Sunil Singh Panoo, of Dhillon & Partners said that his client is currently overseas and will discuss the case with Mr Ong soon.
The case started last October when MBS first filed its writ of summons against Mr Ong after failing to get payment from him.
Previous media reports said Mr Ong's father is the owner of a famous nasi lemak business and that Mr Ong had lost S$1.8 million in gambling.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday, 24 March 2011
More pax passed thru Changi Airport in Feb
More passengers passed through Changi Airport in Feb
Some 3.4 million passengers passed through Changi Airport in February.
Changi Airport Group said the figure represented a 9.1 per cent increase from a year ago.
It said passenger traffic was boosted by strong travel demand over the Lunar New Year holiday which this year was spread over a long weekend.
Southeast and Northeast Asia continued to be the growth drivers, with traffic to these regions increasing by double digits.
The number of flights also rose by 12.2 per cent in the month to 22,000 and 28 per cent of the flights were by low cost carriers.
The Lunar New year holidays however contributed to a two per cent decline in cargo handled.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Some 3.4 million passengers passed through Changi Airport in February.
Changi Airport Group said the figure represented a 9.1 per cent increase from a year ago.
It said passenger traffic was boosted by strong travel demand over the Lunar New Year holiday which this year was spread over a long weekend.
Southeast and Northeast Asia continued to be the growth drivers, with traffic to these regions increasing by double digits.
The number of flights also rose by 12.2 per cent in the month to 22,000 and 28 per cent of the flights were by low cost carriers.
The Lunar New year holidays however contributed to a two per cent decline in cargo handled.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tourism sector needs to move towards quality
S'pore tourism sector needs to move towards quality
Singapore's tourism industry should move away from quantity to quality if it is to overcome the long-term challenges posed by regional competition and land and labour constraints.
Speaking at a tourism conference, Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry, S Iswaran suggested three strategic thrusts - Innovation, Integration and Productivity.
Mr Iswaran said: "We must focus on and reinforce our comparative advantages and move away from sheer quantity and in turn focusing on yield and value capture as a norm for our tourism sector.
"In other words, emphasis on yield, on the value for the customer and what kind of value add we can generate rather than sheer number increase. To raise our game, we need to focus on three aspects, innovation, integration and productivity."
With innovative ideas, an integrated approach within the industry and greater productivity, Mr Iswaran is confident Singapore can ride on Asia's momentum and position itself for the next phase of growth.
He said Singapore should be on track to achieve the forecast of between 12 to 13 million visitor arrivals and S$22 to S$24 billion in tourism receipts in this year.
Separately, The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said there is still momentum for growth amid uncertainties such as the events in the Middle East and Japan.
Japan is among the top ten tourist markets for Singapore. In January, there were 49,000 visitors from Japan but this is likely to slow.
Already, SIA said it is cutting back on flights to and from Tokyo's Haneda Airport because of weakening demand. Tour agencies too have reported cancellations of tours to Japan.
STB chief executive officer Aw Kah Peng said: "We believe that there will be an impact. How large that impact will be, we cannot be certain at this point but certainly our hearts are with them...as far as we are concerned, these are markets that are important to us and we will continue to be there."
She said this while addressing some 500 industry players at the annual tourism industry conference.
She added that value creation will drive further growth.
STB and the Singapore Hotel Association have formulated a hotel productivity plan which aims to increase customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Ms Aw said: "Each company will take a different approach, we will work with them, ways to support them. There are a couple of key elements, so one of them is training. How do we support industry partners when they commit to training their people. So that's one very core area. Two is how to we support as they look into their own internal processes, whether it is the organisation, the redesigning of jobs, the improvement of technology, so how can we support them.
"Third thing, is how do we track the improvements. STB is looking at a way to work with the hotel sector, get them to collectively agree to a set of measures that can be quantified that can be tracked and then we find a way to publish that report so that we can all keep track of all these happenings."
The formulation of such productivity plans will be extended to other tourism-related sectors in the near future.
At the conference, STB also revealed plans for a mobile information guide called YourSingapore, which will be launched in May. The application aims to deepen the engagement with visitors to Singapore. There will be no data charges imposed on visitors when using the application.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore's tourism industry should move away from quantity to quality if it is to overcome the long-term challenges posed by regional competition and land and labour constraints.
Speaking at a tourism conference, Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry, S Iswaran suggested three strategic thrusts - Innovation, Integration and Productivity.
Mr Iswaran said: "We must focus on and reinforce our comparative advantages and move away from sheer quantity and in turn focusing on yield and value capture as a norm for our tourism sector.
"In other words, emphasis on yield, on the value for the customer and what kind of value add we can generate rather than sheer number increase. To raise our game, we need to focus on three aspects, innovation, integration and productivity."
With innovative ideas, an integrated approach within the industry and greater productivity, Mr Iswaran is confident Singapore can ride on Asia's momentum and position itself for the next phase of growth.
He said Singapore should be on track to achieve the forecast of between 12 to 13 million visitor arrivals and S$22 to S$24 billion in tourism receipts in this year.
Separately, The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said there is still momentum for growth amid uncertainties such as the events in the Middle East and Japan.
Japan is among the top ten tourist markets for Singapore. In January, there were 49,000 visitors from Japan but this is likely to slow.
Already, SIA said it is cutting back on flights to and from Tokyo's Haneda Airport because of weakening demand. Tour agencies too have reported cancellations of tours to Japan.
STB chief executive officer Aw Kah Peng said: "We believe that there will be an impact. How large that impact will be, we cannot be certain at this point but certainly our hearts are with them...as far as we are concerned, these are markets that are important to us and we will continue to be there."
She said this while addressing some 500 industry players at the annual tourism industry conference.
She added that value creation will drive further growth.
STB and the Singapore Hotel Association have formulated a hotel productivity plan which aims to increase customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Ms Aw said: "Each company will take a different approach, we will work with them, ways to support them. There are a couple of key elements, so one of them is training. How do we support industry partners when they commit to training their people. So that's one very core area. Two is how to we support as they look into their own internal processes, whether it is the organisation, the redesigning of jobs, the improvement of technology, so how can we support them.
"Third thing, is how do we track the improvements. STB is looking at a way to work with the hotel sector, get them to collectively agree to a set of measures that can be quantified that can be tracked and then we find a way to publish that report so that we can all keep track of all these happenings."
The formulation of such productivity plans will be extended to other tourism-related sectors in the near future.
At the conference, STB also revealed plans for a mobile information guide called YourSingapore, which will be launched in May. The application aims to deepen the engagement with visitors to Singapore. There will be no data charges imposed on visitors when using the application.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
SIA cuts flights to Tokyo's Haneda airport
SIA cuts flights to Tokyo's Haneda airport
Singapore's flag-carrier said on Tuesday it will suspend half of its daily flights between the city-state and Tokyo's Haneda airport as demand weakened because of the nuclear crisis in Japan.
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said in its website it will halt two of its four flights between Changi Airport and Haneda from Sunday.
"Flights SQ635 and SQ636 which operate between Singapore and Haneda will be suspended from 27 March 2011," a post on the website read.
However, an SIA spokesman told AFP the airline would maintain its four flights between Singapore and the Japanese capital's Narita Airport.
The spokesman said the suspension of the Haneda flights was due to a slump in customers going to Japan after a massive 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami hit the country's northeast.
The twin disasters triggered a crisis at a tsunami-hit nuclear power plant about 250 kilometres (155 miles) from Tokyo, where workers have been struggling to bring overheating reactors under control.
"We are seeing weakening demand in and out of Tokyo due to the situation in Japan," the spokesman said.
Kyodo News on Tuesday reported that smoke and steam were again rising from damaged reactors at the troubled Fukushima Daiichi plant.
White steam-like vapour was seen rising from the number two reactor and what looked like white hazy smoke from the number three reactor, Kyodo said, adding that efforts to spray water and restore electricity had temporarily stalled.
Abnormal levels of radiation were also detected in shipments of certain vegetables and milk from four prefectures near the plant, fuelling public anxiety about contamination from radiation.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore's flag-carrier said on Tuesday it will suspend half of its daily flights between the city-state and Tokyo's Haneda airport as demand weakened because of the nuclear crisis in Japan.
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said in its website it will halt two of its four flights between Changi Airport and Haneda from Sunday.
"Flights SQ635 and SQ636 which operate between Singapore and Haneda will be suspended from 27 March 2011," a post on the website read.
However, an SIA spokesman told AFP the airline would maintain its four flights between Singapore and the Japanese capital's Narita Airport.
The spokesman said the suspension of the Haneda flights was due to a slump in customers going to Japan after a massive 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami hit the country's northeast.
The twin disasters triggered a crisis at a tsunami-hit nuclear power plant about 250 kilometres (155 miles) from Tokyo, where workers have been struggling to bring overheating reactors under control.
"We are seeing weakening demand in and out of Tokyo due to the situation in Japan," the spokesman said.
Kyodo News on Tuesday reported that smoke and steam were again rising from damaged reactors at the troubled Fukushima Daiichi plant.
White steam-like vapour was seen rising from the number two reactor and what looked like white hazy smoke from the number three reactor, Kyodo said, adding that efforts to spray water and restore electricity had temporarily stalled.
Abnormal levels of radiation were also detected in shipments of certain vegetables and milk from four prefectures near the plant, fuelling public anxiety about contamination from radiation.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Moon Mountain cigarettes are illegal
Moon Mountain cigarettes are illegal
Cigarette-smuggling syndicates are now resorting to selling a brand of contraband cigarettes packaged as legitimate ones.
What's worse: The cigarettes which bear the brand "Moon Mountain" even come in packets showing the usual pictorial health warning.
Singapore Customs said in a statement yesterday that the cigarettes are currently not supplied by any local tobacco importer or wholesaler licensed by the Health Sciences Authority.
Investigations revealed that the cigarettes were smuggled into Singapore by syndicates. Singapore Customs said it has been keeping close tabs on their activities.
On the evening of March 11, an operation mounted resulted in the seizure of 32,000 packets of duty-unpaid cigarettes, which included 16,500 packets of Moon Mountain cigarettes. Four men three Singaporeans and a Chinese national were arrested. The total duty and Goods and Services Tax evaded on the contraband amounted to almost $300,000.
Two Singapore-registered vehicles a car and a truck were also seized in the operation.
The operation took place in Woodlands, where officers were keeping tabs on a truck suspected to be loaded with duty-unpaid cigarettes. The four men were soon spotted and when officers moved in to arrest them, the Chinese national and a Singaporean man attempted to flee. All four were arrested subsequently.
Singapore Customs warns that Moon Mountain cigarettes are illegal in Singapore and members of the public should not buy or be in possession of the cigarettes.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Cigarette-smuggling syndicates are now resorting to selling a brand of contraband cigarettes packaged as legitimate ones.
What's worse: The cigarettes which bear the brand "Moon Mountain" even come in packets showing the usual pictorial health warning.
Singapore Customs said in a statement yesterday that the cigarettes are currently not supplied by any local tobacco importer or wholesaler licensed by the Health Sciences Authority.
Investigations revealed that the cigarettes were smuggled into Singapore by syndicates. Singapore Customs said it has been keeping close tabs on their activities.
On the evening of March 11, an operation mounted resulted in the seizure of 32,000 packets of duty-unpaid cigarettes, which included 16,500 packets of Moon Mountain cigarettes. Four men three Singaporeans and a Chinese national were arrested. The total duty and Goods and Services Tax evaded on the contraband amounted to almost $300,000.
Two Singapore-registered vehicles a car and a truck were also seized in the operation.
The operation took place in Woodlands, where officers were keeping tabs on a truck suspected to be loaded with duty-unpaid cigarettes. The four men were soon spotted and when officers moved in to arrest them, the Chinese national and a Singaporean man attempted to flee. All four were arrested subsequently.
Singapore Customs warns that Moon Mountain cigarettes are illegal in Singapore and members of the public should not buy or be in possession of the cigarettes.
-News courtesy of Omy-
SingTel takes F1 thrills to the heartland
SingTel takes Formula One thrills to the heartland
GET set for a season of speedy thrills in the Singapore heartland, as SingTel rolled out a series of activities yesterday to gear up for more than seven months of Formula One action.
The telco, which recently extended its title-sponsorship contract with the F1 Singapore Grand Prix for another two years, is keen to take the high-octane action to more heartland crowds.
With broadcast-rights holder ESPN Star Sports joining its mioTV line-up, SingTel will be organising roadshows and live screenings of all 19 F1 races this season at Kopitiam outlets, Harry's bars and shopping malls.
For example, it will broadcast this weekend's opening Australian Grand Prix at Kopitiam Square at 10 Sengkang Square in high-definition and 3-D, a first for Singapore F1 fans.
Besides the live screenings, fans can also take part in SingTel's "Fast Is Amazing" initiative, which encourages Singaporeans to set their own speed records in activities like cup stacking, durian- eating and even SMSing.
SingTel will submit several of these categories for entry into the Guinness Book Of Records. Fans can also upload videos of their record-breaking acts via www.singtel.com/f1
A few roadshows will also see a custom-built F1 race-car simulator with newly improved motion cues. There will be a team competition to "race" 24 hours on the simulator, and the winning team will get a chance to meet an F1 driver at the Singapore Grand Prix.
Besides catching F1 action on mioTV, fans can also go to ESPN player online and Mobile ESPN to watch feeds from nine in-car cameras capturing what goes on from the driver's perspective.
-News courtesy of Omy-
GET set for a season of speedy thrills in the Singapore heartland, as SingTel rolled out a series of activities yesterday to gear up for more than seven months of Formula One action.
The telco, which recently extended its title-sponsorship contract with the F1 Singapore Grand Prix for another two years, is keen to take the high-octane action to more heartland crowds.
With broadcast-rights holder ESPN Star Sports joining its mioTV line-up, SingTel will be organising roadshows and live screenings of all 19 F1 races this season at Kopitiam outlets, Harry's bars and shopping malls.
For example, it will broadcast this weekend's opening Australian Grand Prix at Kopitiam Square at 10 Sengkang Square in high-definition and 3-D, a first for Singapore F1 fans.
Besides the live screenings, fans can also take part in SingTel's "Fast Is Amazing" initiative, which encourages Singaporeans to set their own speed records in activities like cup stacking, durian- eating and even SMSing.
SingTel will submit several of these categories for entry into the Guinness Book Of Records. Fans can also upload videos of their record-breaking acts via www.singtel.com/f1
A few roadshows will also see a custom-built F1 race-car simulator with newly improved motion cues. There will be a team competition to "race" 24 hours on the simulator, and the winning team will get a chance to meet an F1 driver at the Singapore Grand Prix.
Besides catching F1 action on mioTV, fans can also go to ESPN player online and Mobile ESPN to watch feeds from nine in-car cameras capturing what goes on from the driver's perspective.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Radiation level in Singapore very low
Radiation level in Singapore very low
THE likelihood of any radioactive plume reaching Singapore from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in earthquake-stricken Japan remains "very low", said the Singapore Government yesterday.
A joint statement involving various government ministries and agencies said that round-the-clock monitoring of radiation levels shows an average reading which is "safe and is within the normal range of Singapore's natural background level".
The average reading is 0.08 microsieverts per hour. Singapore is about 5,000km away from the incident site in Japan.
The National Environment Agency said in the statement: "Even in the event that prevailing winds were to transport a plume to Singapore, the impact is expected to be insignificant."
The concentration of the plume, after travelling the long distance, would have been significantly reduced to the normal background levels, added the statement.
The Ministry of Health said that any Singaporean who was outside the 20km evacuation zone in Japan will not need any form of medical assessment.
The statement also said that while there are no health reasons that require the screening of passengers from Japan at airports, developments will be monitored and appropriate measures taken if the need arises.
In the statement, the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) confirmed that there have been no food imports from the affected regions in Japan since the start of the incident.
-News courtesy of omy-
THE likelihood of any radioactive plume reaching Singapore from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in earthquake-stricken Japan remains "very low", said the Singapore Government yesterday.
A joint statement involving various government ministries and agencies said that round-the-clock monitoring of radiation levels shows an average reading which is "safe and is within the normal range of Singapore's natural background level".
The average reading is 0.08 microsieverts per hour. Singapore is about 5,000km away from the incident site in Japan.
The National Environment Agency said in the statement: "Even in the event that prevailing winds were to transport a plume to Singapore, the impact is expected to be insignificant."
The concentration of the plume, after travelling the long distance, would have been significantly reduced to the normal background levels, added the statement.
The Ministry of Health said that any Singaporean who was outside the 20km evacuation zone in Japan will not need any form of medical assessment.
The statement also said that while there are no health reasons that require the screening of passengers from Japan at airports, developments will be monitored and appropriate measures taken if the need arises.
In the statement, the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) confirmed that there have been no food imports from the affected regions in Japan since the start of the incident.
-News courtesy of omy-
Friday, 18 March 2011
New events website gives tourists more
New events website gives tourists more
A new ticketing agent in town is aiming to boost the events-tourism pie here and give travel agencies selling Singapore as a holiday destination a run for their money.
Showbiz International, a leading Australian ticketing provider with 30 years of experience in the business, has extended its popular "one-stop shop" entertainment-package model to Singapore with the launch of its regional website, www.showbizasia.com
The integrated website focuses mainly on selling tickets for arts and entertainment events in Singapore to consumers from around the world. It also combines this with options for hotel stays, dining options and visits to attractions in Singapore.
In particular, it is targeting visitors from Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Australia and New Zealand, said Mr Craig McMaster, chief executive of Showbiz Group, at The Arts House on Tuesday.
Mr McMaster said that events tourism is crucial to the success of the new theatres and entertainment venues here.
He pointed out that, with the opening of the two integrated resorts, there are now more than 5,000 additional theatre seats available each day. That translates to about 40,000 more seats a week, and about two million more seats up for grabs a year.
"The local market alone cannot support this, and so our energies, plans and marketing focus must be to turn inbound tourism and packaging markets to drive volume," he said.
"This must mean new approaches to distribution, and a whole new level of big-picture partnerships. It also requires a shared commitment to the vision of Singapore as an arts and entertainment destination which will rival places like New York, London, Toronto and Sydney."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
A new ticketing agent in town is aiming to boost the events-tourism pie here and give travel agencies selling Singapore as a holiday destination a run for their money.
Showbiz International, a leading Australian ticketing provider with 30 years of experience in the business, has extended its popular "one-stop shop" entertainment-package model to Singapore with the launch of its regional website, www.showbizasia.com
The integrated website focuses mainly on selling tickets for arts and entertainment events in Singapore to consumers from around the world. It also combines this with options for hotel stays, dining options and visits to attractions in Singapore.
In particular, it is targeting visitors from Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Australia and New Zealand, said Mr Craig McMaster, chief executive of Showbiz Group, at The Arts House on Tuesday.
Mr McMaster said that events tourism is crucial to the success of the new theatres and entertainment venues here.
He pointed out that, with the opening of the two integrated resorts, there are now more than 5,000 additional theatre seats available each day. That translates to about 40,000 more seats a week, and about two million more seats up for grabs a year.
"The local market alone cannot support this, and so our energies, plans and marketing focus must be to turn inbound tourism and packaging markets to drive volume," he said.
"This must mean new approaches to distribution, and a whole new level of big-picture partnerships. It also requires a shared commitment to the vision of Singapore as an arts and entertainment destination which will rival places like New York, London, Toronto and Sydney."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wednesday, 16 March 2011
S'pore safe from Japan radiation fallout: expert
S'pore safe from Japan radiation fallout: expert
News of radiation leaks from one of Japan's nuclear plants have sparked off concerns among many netizens in Singapore.
Channel NewsAsia's Facebook page has also been receiving many responses.
Some asked about the authenticity of a message claiming to be from BBC News, which said "radiation may hit the Philippines" and "Asian countries should take necessary precautions".
However, BBC has clarified that it did not send out the SMS alert.
Others like Annie Lee asked if the radiation spread will affect Singapore. And if so, then when?
Nuclear experts said Singapore is in no danger from a radiation fallout.
Dr Benjamin Sovacool, assistant professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, said: "Even if a worst case scenario were to happen, an absolute nightmare, multiple reactors catch fire, they create a radioactive particle cloud that is hazardous, it's not likely to come to Singapore.
"The trade winds will most significantly blow it into the ocean towards the United States. If somehow we are wrong, and this radioactive cloud was to somehow defy the trade winds and come straight to Singapore, we still have adequate warning to prepare, to evacuate, to distribute preventative measures."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
News of radiation leaks from one of Japan's nuclear plants have sparked off concerns among many netizens in Singapore.
Channel NewsAsia's Facebook page has also been receiving many responses.
Some asked about the authenticity of a message claiming to be from BBC News, which said "radiation may hit the Philippines" and "Asian countries should take necessary precautions".
However, BBC has clarified that it did not send out the SMS alert.
Others like Annie Lee asked if the radiation spread will affect Singapore. And if so, then when?
Nuclear experts said Singapore is in no danger from a radiation fallout.
Dr Benjamin Sovacool, assistant professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, said: "Even if a worst case scenario were to happen, an absolute nightmare, multiple reactors catch fire, they create a radioactive particle cloud that is hazardous, it's not likely to come to Singapore.
"The trade winds will most significantly blow it into the ocean towards the United States. If somehow we are wrong, and this radioactive cloud was to somehow defy the trade winds and come straight to Singapore, we still have adequate warning to prepare, to evacuate, to distribute preventative measures."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Pandas named Kai Kai and Jia Jia
Pandas coming to S'pore named Kai Kai and Jia Jia
A judging panel has decided that the two pandas coming to Singapore from China will be called "Kai Kai" and "Jia Jia".
The names were chosen based on the suggestions received in a nation-wide contest.
"Kai Kai" means 'victorious' in Mandarin, and reflects two decades of Sino-Singapore ties, while "Jia Jia" means 'beautiful and fine', describing the state of the relationship.
The pandas are on loan to the Republic for 10 years - to mark close diplomatic relations between the two countries.
They will be seen at Wildlife Reserves Singapore's River Safari attraction when it opens in 2012.
One person said: "I think the names are cute..."
Another commented: "Probably that is what China wants to deliver to Singapore - a certain message, so this name actually represents the pandas well."
Others, however, think they have better ideas.
One person suggested "Fei Fei" and "Yuan Yuan", while another chose "Gentle" and "Cuddly".
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
A judging panel has decided that the two pandas coming to Singapore from China will be called "Kai Kai" and "Jia Jia".
The names were chosen based on the suggestions received in a nation-wide contest.
"Kai Kai" means 'victorious' in Mandarin, and reflects two decades of Sino-Singapore ties, while "Jia Jia" means 'beautiful and fine', describing the state of the relationship.
The pandas are on loan to the Republic for 10 years - to mark close diplomatic relations between the two countries.
They will be seen at Wildlife Reserves Singapore's River Safari attraction when it opens in 2012.
One person said: "I think the names are cute..."
Another commented: "Probably that is what China wants to deliver to Singapore - a certain message, so this name actually represents the pandas well."
Others, however, think they have better ideas.
One person suggested "Fei Fei" and "Yuan Yuan", while another chose "Gentle" and "Cuddly".
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore Street Festival goes to the heartlands
Singapore Street Festival goes to the heartlands
The Singapore Street Festival will be going to the heartlands for the first time in its 10th year running, showcasing a host of performances at Heartland Mall in Kovan, and White Sands in Pasir-Ris.
The festival will showcase, among others, rap, breakdance competitions, bellydancing and even a Muay Thai fight- Thailand's traditional martial art.
The festival's founder and organiser, Ms Annie Pek, says the festival is open to anyone to register and showcase their talent.
She adds that the youths will be the main focus, so much so that they were involved in every level of planning and executing of the festival.
"We are bringing it [to the heartlands] to engage the youth there. We noticed in the Street Fest that most of our performers come from the East, so we thought the best start is for them to go to the East, and see where it leads us," said Ms Pek.
Organisers say they expect youths from the region and Europe to participate in the festival as well.
"This is not Singapore Idol, this is not your usual television programme, we're not trying to commercialise this. We're trying to build this platform to discover raw talent and we're encouraging all youths to come forward to participate," said Mr Teo Ser Luck, Senior Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports.
The Singapore Street Festival will run from July 2 to 31 this year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Singapore Street Festival will be going to the heartlands for the first time in its 10th year running, showcasing a host of performances at Heartland Mall in Kovan, and White Sands in Pasir-Ris.
The festival will showcase, among others, rap, breakdance competitions, bellydancing and even a Muay Thai fight- Thailand's traditional martial art.
The festival's founder and organiser, Ms Annie Pek, says the festival is open to anyone to register and showcase their talent.
She adds that the youths will be the main focus, so much so that they were involved in every level of planning and executing of the festival.
"We are bringing it [to the heartlands] to engage the youth there. We noticed in the Street Fest that most of our performers come from the East, so we thought the best start is for them to go to the East, and see where it leads us," said Ms Pek.
Organisers say they expect youths from the region and Europe to participate in the festival as well.
"This is not Singapore Idol, this is not your usual television programme, we're not trying to commercialise this. We're trying to build this platform to discover raw talent and we're encouraging all youths to come forward to participate," said Mr Teo Ser Luck, Senior Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports.
The Singapore Street Festival will run from July 2 to 31 this year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
SIA maintaining flights to & from Japan
SIA maintaining flights to & from Japan
Singapore Airlines has said it is maintaining its flight operations to and from Japan despite fears of radiation leaks from nuclear plants in the country.
SIA spokesman Nicholas Ionides said they are monitoring the situation and would change operations if the need arises.
He also said SIA is seeing some cancellations for flights into Tokyo while "loads for flights out of the Japanese capital are strong".
Mr Ionides said the "situation remains fluid".
SIA is also making changes to two of its flights.
From Thursday to March 22, flights SQ12 and SQ11 between Singapore and Los Angeles via Tokyo Narita will make an additional stop at Osaka Kansai airport, about 400km southwest of Tokyo, as aftershocks are still being experienced in Tokyo.
SIA said this is to ensure the crew have sufficient rest.
Mr Ionides said the best way to be updated on the status of SIA flights to and from Japan is via its website - www.singaporeair.com.sg.
The Fukushima nuclear facility in Japan has seen explosions, fires and radiation leaks since the massive earthquake and tsunami waves cut power supplies which caused the reactor fuel rods to heat up.
The situation in Japan has seen some foreigners scrambling to leave the country.
Some airlines have either cancelled flights to Tokyo or have diverted their flights to Nagoya and Osaka, both hundreds of kilometres away from the capital.
Some carriers are also reducing the number of flights to Tokyo.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore said on Tuesday that it was monitoring the potential impact of the radiological plume from the Fukushima plant.
It said developments so far do not necessitate the screening of aircraft or passengers for radiation.
SIA also said it will waive administrative fees for refund, re-booking or re-routing for customers holding confirmed tickets issued on or before March 11 for travel to and from all cities in Japan from March 11 to April 10, both dates inclusive.
This also applies to KrisFlyer redemption tickets.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore Airlines has said it is maintaining its flight operations to and from Japan despite fears of radiation leaks from nuclear plants in the country.
SIA spokesman Nicholas Ionides said they are monitoring the situation and would change operations if the need arises.
He also said SIA is seeing some cancellations for flights into Tokyo while "loads for flights out of the Japanese capital are strong".
Mr Ionides said the "situation remains fluid".
SIA is also making changes to two of its flights.
From Thursday to March 22, flights SQ12 and SQ11 between Singapore and Los Angeles via Tokyo Narita will make an additional stop at Osaka Kansai airport, about 400km southwest of Tokyo, as aftershocks are still being experienced in Tokyo.
SIA said this is to ensure the crew have sufficient rest.
Mr Ionides said the best way to be updated on the status of SIA flights to and from Japan is via its website - www.singaporeair.com.sg.
The Fukushima nuclear facility in Japan has seen explosions, fires and radiation leaks since the massive earthquake and tsunami waves cut power supplies which caused the reactor fuel rods to heat up.
The situation in Japan has seen some foreigners scrambling to leave the country.
Some airlines have either cancelled flights to Tokyo or have diverted their flights to Nagoya and Osaka, both hundreds of kilometres away from the capital.
Some carriers are also reducing the number of flights to Tokyo.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore said on Tuesday that it was monitoring the potential impact of the radiological plume from the Fukushima plant.
It said developments so far do not necessitate the screening of aircraft or passengers for radiation.
SIA also said it will waive administrative fees for refund, re-booking or re-routing for customers holding confirmed tickets issued on or before March 11 for travel to and from all cities in Japan from March 11 to April 10, both dates inclusive.
This also applies to KrisFlyer redemption tickets.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Japanese joints here turn to other food sources
Japanese joints here turn to other food sources
A CLOUD of uncertainty hangs over the supply of fresh produce from disaster-hit Japan for Japanese restaurants and bars in Singapore.
Popular high-end fine-dining restaurants and bars like Kuriya, Hinoki Japanese Dining and Akashi Japanese Restaurant are likely to face a supply squeeze. These restaurants usually import a majority of their seafood from Tokyo's Tsukiji Market and Osaka's Central Fish Market.
Hinoki's owner, Mr Lawrence Chia, said he was told by his supplier in Tsukiji Market that stocks there have fallen by half.
RE&S Enterprises procurement manager Toshiya Tanaka, who handles supplies for restaurants like Kuriya and the Ichiban chain, was told by his supplier in Osaka that stocks were affected as many fishermen have stopped work.
Workers in various markets have also reportedly not returned to work since last Friday.
Akashi's chef and owner, Mr Mervin Goh, was told that the supplies he has ordered for today are unaffected, but their shipment to Singapore could be delayed because of freight and petrol problems in Japan.
A number of Japan's oil refineries have shut down since the 9-magnitude earthquake hit the country.
Restaurants that serve authentic Japanese food are reluctant to obtain alternatives from other countries. Mr Goh said: "We will not compromise... To us, the origin of the product is as important as the quality." Fresh produce will instead be sourced from unaffected parts of Japan, like Kyushu and Hokkaido.
-News courtesy of Omy-
A CLOUD of uncertainty hangs over the supply of fresh produce from disaster-hit Japan for Japanese restaurants and bars in Singapore.
Popular high-end fine-dining restaurants and bars like Kuriya, Hinoki Japanese Dining and Akashi Japanese Restaurant are likely to face a supply squeeze. These restaurants usually import a majority of their seafood from Tokyo's Tsukiji Market and Osaka's Central Fish Market.
Hinoki's owner, Mr Lawrence Chia, said he was told by his supplier in Tsukiji Market that stocks there have fallen by half.
RE&S Enterprises procurement manager Toshiya Tanaka, who handles supplies for restaurants like Kuriya and the Ichiban chain, was told by his supplier in Osaka that stocks were affected as many fishermen have stopped work.
Workers in various markets have also reportedly not returned to work since last Friday.
Akashi's chef and owner, Mr Mervin Goh, was told that the supplies he has ordered for today are unaffected, but their shipment to Singapore could be delayed because of freight and petrol problems in Japan.
A number of Japan's oil refineries have shut down since the 9-magnitude earthquake hit the country.
Restaurants that serve authentic Japanese food are reluctant to obtain alternatives from other countries. Mr Goh said: "We will not compromise... To us, the origin of the product is as important as the quality." Fresh produce will instead be sourced from unaffected parts of Japan, like Kyushu and Hokkaido.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Case to handle tourist complaints
Case to handle tourist complaints
TOURISTS will now have a more effective and efficient avenue of redress if they find themselves fleeced by retailers here.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has appointed the Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) to provide mediation on behalf of tourists and to represent them at the Small Claims Tribunal for redress.
Both organisations signed an agreement yesterday that will take effect from July 1.
As Case had previously signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with its counterparts in China, India, Macau and Malaysia, visitors from those territories will have a platform for recourse even after they have returned home.
Case will sign a similar MOU with its counterpart in South Korea next, said Case president Yeo Guat Kwang.
STB currently mediates on behalf of tourists and has done so since 2003. A total of 5,726 tourist complaints were lodged from 2007 to last year, it said.
Last year alone, tourists filed a total of 1,557 complaints.
About one third of the yearly complaints since 2007 a ratio that has remained constant were related to electronic products. Tourists typically griped about unfair retail practices, such as misrepresenta-tion and over-pricing, said STB.
-News courtesy of Omy-
TOURISTS will now have a more effective and efficient avenue of redress if they find themselves fleeced by retailers here.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has appointed the Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) to provide mediation on behalf of tourists and to represent them at the Small Claims Tribunal for redress.
Both organisations signed an agreement yesterday that will take effect from July 1.
As Case had previously signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with its counterparts in China, India, Macau and Malaysia, visitors from those territories will have a platform for recourse even after they have returned home.
Case will sign a similar MOU with its counterpart in South Korea next, said Case president Yeo Guat Kwang.
STB currently mediates on behalf of tourists and has done so since 2003. A total of 5,726 tourist complaints were lodged from 2007 to last year, it said.
Last year alone, tourists filed a total of 1,557 complaints.
About one third of the yearly complaints since 2007 a ratio that has remained constant were related to electronic products. Tourists typically griped about unfair retail practices, such as misrepresenta-tion and over-pricing, said STB.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Thursday, 10 March 2011
VivoCity one of the world's top 10 malls
VivoCity one of the world's top 10 malls
SHOPAHOLICS here can now boast about shopping at a world-class shopping mall.
VivoCity has been voted as one of the world's top 10 retail destinations by retail trade publication Shopping Center News (India).
The mall shares the honour with big names like The Dubai Mall and London's Covent Garden.
Shopping Center News (India) sought the views of industry players to identify the top 10 malls, which were listed in no particular order. The trade publication hopes that these malls would serve as models to spur India's shopping centres, it said in a press statement.
Casting a vote in support of VivoCity was Mr Anuj Puri, chairman and country head of Jones Lang LaSalle India, a global real-estate services firm.
He said that VivoCity's launch in 2006 put other Singapore malls "in the shade", and added that the mall "has all the ingredients of an ultimate shopping destination... The view of Sentosa Island is spectacular, and a guaranteed footfall draw at any time of the year".
Some of VivoCity's winning features include its family- friendly children's playground and wading pool, its roof-top amphitheatre and its 300m promenade.
Mr Chang Yeng Cheong, general manager of VivoCity, said: "We are encouraged and excited that India's retailers and shopping-mall operators see VivoCity as a global benchmark and model to emulate.
-News courtesy of Omy-
SHOPAHOLICS here can now boast about shopping at a world-class shopping mall.
VivoCity has been voted as one of the world's top 10 retail destinations by retail trade publication Shopping Center News (India).
The mall shares the honour with big names like The Dubai Mall and London's Covent Garden.
Shopping Center News (India) sought the views of industry players to identify the top 10 malls, which were listed in no particular order. The trade publication hopes that these malls would serve as models to spur India's shopping centres, it said in a press statement.
Casting a vote in support of VivoCity was Mr Anuj Puri, chairman and country head of Jones Lang LaSalle India, a global real-estate services firm.
He said that VivoCity's launch in 2006 put other Singapore malls "in the shade", and added that the mall "has all the ingredients of an ultimate shopping destination... The view of Sentosa Island is spectacular, and a guaranteed footfall draw at any time of the year".
Some of VivoCity's winning features include its family- friendly children's playground and wading pool, its roof-top amphitheatre and its 300m promenade.
Mr Chang Yeng Cheong, general manager of VivoCity, said: "We are encouraged and excited that India's retailers and shopping-mall operators see VivoCity as a global benchmark and model to emulate.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Thursday, 3 March 2011
Orchard road malls going for frequent facelifts
Orchard road malls going for frequent facelifts
Shopping malls along Orchard Road are going for facelifts even though they are relatively new, due to rising competition from brand-new shopping centres - which are forcing the existing ones to spruce up their act.
Instead of refurbishing a shopping centre after a decade or two, mall owners are tweaking the look and feel of even relatively new buildings.
Analysts say this is because the ownership of many shopping centres has changed hands, and the new landlords are real-estate investment trusts that want to earn high rental incomes to keep their investors satisfied.
Head of research for Jones Lang Laselle (SEA), Dr Chua Yang Liang says the arrival of real-estate investment trusts (REITs) have made mall operators more aggressive.
"Because at the end of the day, you have your major shareholders, it's about income returns on the asset itself, so there is motivation to make sure their assets are viable and continue to attract the tenants", said Dr Chua.
Wisma Atria shopping mall on Orchard Road will be getting a facelift by the third quarter of next year.
It is owned by Starhill Global REIT, which plans to enhance the mall's positioning by redeveloping its frontage.
Meanwhile, CapitaMall Trust has announced asset enhancements initiatives in Atrium@Orchard.
Analysts say the trend is likely to continue.
"So there is that change in structure, and definitely going forward, I think you may see the retail scene, especially along Orchard Road changing along towards that direction", said Dr Chua.
"Where the lifespan of the building becomes shorter, and the need to upgrade becomes more pressing."
Following the launch of several new malls along Orchard Road over the last two years - such as the Knightsbridge at Grand Park Orchard hotel, Ion Orchard, Orchard Central and 313@Somerset - analysts expect the premier shopping belt to see less new addition of retail space next year.
"There is already a fair amount of malls and that have already cropped up. So after this round of refurbishment, the situation will probably stabilize over the next couple of years", said Mr Wong Sui Jau, general manager of Fundsupermart.
Currently, the monthly gross rent in the Orchard Road area is between S$20 and S$40 per square foot.
According to Jones Lang LaSalle, prime rents have risen 1 per cent over the past one year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Shopping malls along Orchard Road are going for facelifts even though they are relatively new, due to rising competition from brand-new shopping centres - which are forcing the existing ones to spruce up their act.
Instead of refurbishing a shopping centre after a decade or two, mall owners are tweaking the look and feel of even relatively new buildings.
Analysts say this is because the ownership of many shopping centres has changed hands, and the new landlords are real-estate investment trusts that want to earn high rental incomes to keep their investors satisfied.
Head of research for Jones Lang Laselle (SEA), Dr Chua Yang Liang says the arrival of real-estate investment trusts (REITs) have made mall operators more aggressive.
"Because at the end of the day, you have your major shareholders, it's about income returns on the asset itself, so there is motivation to make sure their assets are viable and continue to attract the tenants", said Dr Chua.
Wisma Atria shopping mall on Orchard Road will be getting a facelift by the third quarter of next year.
It is owned by Starhill Global REIT, which plans to enhance the mall's positioning by redeveloping its frontage.
Meanwhile, CapitaMall Trust has announced asset enhancements initiatives in Atrium@Orchard.
Analysts say the trend is likely to continue.
"So there is that change in structure, and definitely going forward, I think you may see the retail scene, especially along Orchard Road changing along towards that direction", said Dr Chua.
"Where the lifespan of the building becomes shorter, and the need to upgrade becomes more pressing."
Following the launch of several new malls along Orchard Road over the last two years - such as the Knightsbridge at Grand Park Orchard hotel, Ion Orchard, Orchard Central and 313@Somerset - analysts expect the premier shopping belt to see less new addition of retail space next year.
"There is already a fair amount of malls and that have already cropped up. So after this round of refurbishment, the situation will probably stabilize over the next couple of years", said Mr Wong Sui Jau, general manager of Fundsupermart.
Currently, the monthly gross rent in the Orchard Road area is between S$20 and S$40 per square foot.
According to Jones Lang LaSalle, prime rents have risen 1 per cent over the past one year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
KTM relocation under way
KTM relocation under way
Work is under way to implement the Points of Agreement (POA) which will see the Malaysian railway (KTM) station in Tanjong Pagar move to Woodlands Train Checkpoint by July 1, 2011.
Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo said this in Parliament, during his ministry's Committee of Supply debate.
Mr Yeo said a schedule of implementation has been drawn up, adding that work on some aspects of the implementation has also started.
The deal struck by the Prime Ministers of Singapore and Malaysia in September last year was described as a "breakthrough" in bilateral relations.
The two leaders agreed on the implementation of the POA which had been "outstanding for almost 20 years".
Mr Yeo said the July 1 deadline for the KTM railway station to move from Tanjong Pager to Woodlands is a "firm deadline."
Already, he said work on some aspects of the implementation has started.
Several developments along the main railway line including the redevelopment of Silat Estate and the expansion of One North business park at Buona Vista will begin after July 1.
The question of development charges payable on land in Tanjong Pagar, Kranji and Woodlands will be settled by the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
"When KTMB moves out of Tanjong Pagar, the Singapore government would vest in M-S Pte Ltd, a 60-40 joint venture company formed between Khazanah and Temasek, four land parcels in Marina South and two in Ophir-Rochor," said Mr Yeo.
Other initiatives agreed between both sides in the Joint Statement of May 24, 2010 include the joint development of a rapid transit system link between JB and Singapore.
It also includes Singapore's handing over the waterworks under the 1961 Water Agreement to the Johor authorities free of charge and in good working order on 31 August 2011.
In addition, Khazanah and Temasek will set up a 50-50 joint venture company to undertake the development of an iconic project in Iskandar Malaysia. Khazanah and Temasek are looking to launch the project in May 2011.
"Settling the POA was not a simple matter," Mr Yeo said.
"It took a few years of careful negotiations -- a lot of it, quiet, a lot of it looking for win-win political and economic outcomes on both sides and being mindful of the domestic commentary in Malaysia.
"The key was (Malaysian) Prime Minister Najib's leadership and his relationship with our own Prime Minister, and I believe this will continue.
"I once had a discussion with a Malaysian friend and I told him, 'we are more likely to have our elections before yours'. He smiled. We don't know yet, but I think it's likely to be, and I hope -- in fact, I'm quite sure -- that both sides will win handsomely and this good relationship will continue," Mr Yeo said.
Beyond relations with neighbouring states, Mr Yeo also stressed on Singapore's heavy dependence on external relations.
He said the world is moving towards a messier multipolar reality and in this fluid situation, it's crucial to strengthen ASEAN.
One issue highlighted is the continuing turmoil in the Middle East, which Mr Yeo described as "history in the making".
He added it's something Singapore needs to adjust to and cut its losses if needed.
Singapore's economic and political links with countries in the Middle East have grown significantly in the past eight years, reaching an all-time high of S$44 billion last year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Work is under way to implement the Points of Agreement (POA) which will see the Malaysian railway (KTM) station in Tanjong Pagar move to Woodlands Train Checkpoint by July 1, 2011.
Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo said this in Parliament, during his ministry's Committee of Supply debate.
Mr Yeo said a schedule of implementation has been drawn up, adding that work on some aspects of the implementation has also started.
The deal struck by the Prime Ministers of Singapore and Malaysia in September last year was described as a "breakthrough" in bilateral relations.
The two leaders agreed on the implementation of the POA which had been "outstanding for almost 20 years".
Mr Yeo said the July 1 deadline for the KTM railway station to move from Tanjong Pager to Woodlands is a "firm deadline."
Already, he said work on some aspects of the implementation has started.
Several developments along the main railway line including the redevelopment of Silat Estate and the expansion of One North business park at Buona Vista will begin after July 1.
The question of development charges payable on land in Tanjong Pagar, Kranji and Woodlands will be settled by the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
"When KTMB moves out of Tanjong Pagar, the Singapore government would vest in M-S Pte Ltd, a 60-40 joint venture company formed between Khazanah and Temasek, four land parcels in Marina South and two in Ophir-Rochor," said Mr Yeo.
Other initiatives agreed between both sides in the Joint Statement of May 24, 2010 include the joint development of a rapid transit system link between JB and Singapore.
It also includes Singapore's handing over the waterworks under the 1961 Water Agreement to the Johor authorities free of charge and in good working order on 31 August 2011.
In addition, Khazanah and Temasek will set up a 50-50 joint venture company to undertake the development of an iconic project in Iskandar Malaysia. Khazanah and Temasek are looking to launch the project in May 2011.
"Settling the POA was not a simple matter," Mr Yeo said.
"It took a few years of careful negotiations -- a lot of it, quiet, a lot of it looking for win-win political and economic outcomes on both sides and being mindful of the domestic commentary in Malaysia.
"The key was (Malaysian) Prime Minister Najib's leadership and his relationship with our own Prime Minister, and I believe this will continue.
"I once had a discussion with a Malaysian friend and I told him, 'we are more likely to have our elections before yours'. He smiled. We don't know yet, but I think it's likely to be, and I hope -- in fact, I'm quite sure -- that both sides will win handsomely and this good relationship will continue," Mr Yeo said.
Beyond relations with neighbouring states, Mr Yeo also stressed on Singapore's heavy dependence on external relations.
He said the world is moving towards a messier multipolar reality and in this fluid situation, it's crucial to strengthen ASEAN.
One issue highlighted is the continuing turmoil in the Middle East, which Mr Yeo described as "history in the making".
He added it's something Singapore needs to adjust to and cut its losses if needed.
Singapore's economic and political links with countries in the Middle East have grown significantly in the past eight years, reaching an all-time high of S$44 billion last year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wednesday, 2 March 2011
Orchard Road to play a big part in Earth Hour
Orchard Road to play a big part in upcoming Earth Hour
Orchard Road will be transformed into a "sea of candles" as part of an initiative to conserve electricity in the annual Earth Hour event coming up this month.
Leading by example, the Orchard Road Business Association has more than 50 malls, hotels and retailers along the shopping belt participating in the initiative - twice the number as compared to last year.
"More than a hundred establishments are also participating in one way or another by setting their temperatures at 24 degree celsius, by turning off non-essential lights, and by turning off the facade lighting", said executive director Steven Goh.
"We are going to turn Orchard Road into a sea of candles", Mr Goh added.
Ms Amy Ho, managing director of World Wide Fund for Nature Singapore said that the focus for this year's Earth Hour event is to set air-conditioning temperatures at 24 degrees celsius or higher.
"The issue of climate change is all about reducing our energy consumption as well as making more decisions on being more energy-efficient", said Ms Ho.
Despite calls by the Singapore government to drive the efficient use of energy, implementing change across enterprises remains a key hurdle.
Mr Andy Ridley, co-founder of the Earth Hour global movement, says Singapore is a heavy consumer of energy, but has the potential to become a regional leader for environmental conservation.
"I believe strongly that the leadership is coming, I think it's a bit slow, but I believe it's happening. We just need to accelerate and the best way of doing that is for hundreds and millions of people to raise their voices at Earth Hour - in a hopeful way", said Mr Ridley.
Earth Hour 2011 will take place at 8.30pm on Saturday, March 26, when Singaporeans are encouraged to switch off their lights for an hour.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Orchard Road will be transformed into a "sea of candles" as part of an initiative to conserve electricity in the annual Earth Hour event coming up this month.
Leading by example, the Orchard Road Business Association has more than 50 malls, hotels and retailers along the shopping belt participating in the initiative - twice the number as compared to last year.
"More than a hundred establishments are also participating in one way or another by setting their temperatures at 24 degree celsius, by turning off non-essential lights, and by turning off the facade lighting", said executive director Steven Goh.
"We are going to turn Orchard Road into a sea of candles", Mr Goh added.
Ms Amy Ho, managing director of World Wide Fund for Nature Singapore said that the focus for this year's Earth Hour event is to set air-conditioning temperatures at 24 degrees celsius or higher.
"The issue of climate change is all about reducing our energy consumption as well as making more decisions on being more energy-efficient", said Ms Ho.
Despite calls by the Singapore government to drive the efficient use of energy, implementing change across enterprises remains a key hurdle.
Mr Andy Ridley, co-founder of the Earth Hour global movement, says Singapore is a heavy consumer of energy, but has the potential to become a regional leader for environmental conservation.
"I believe strongly that the leadership is coming, I think it's a bit slow, but I believe it's happening. We just need to accelerate and the best way of doing that is for hundreds and millions of people to raise their voices at Earth Hour - in a hopeful way", said Mr Ridley.
Earth Hour 2011 will take place at 8.30pm on Saturday, March 26, when Singaporeans are encouraged to switch off their lights for an hour.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
Forbes Travel Guide to rate hotels and spas
Forbes Travel Guide to rate S'pore's hotels and spas
Hotels and spas in Singapore will soon be rated by Forbes Travel Guide for the first time.
The ratings are based on objective evaluations of more than 500 attributes at each rated property.
Singapore is the fourth country to receive Forbes Travel Guide's Five-Star ratings, and the fourth city in Asia after Beijing, Hong Kong and Macau.
Forbes Travel Guide said its ratings would allow travellers to Singapore to make more informed decisions for their trips.
To achieve Five- and Four-Star status, properties must meet or exceed its bar-setting service standards, which are determined through an unannounced incognito service evaluation conducted by Forbes Travel Guide's professional inspectors.
Forbes Travel Guide enters Singapore at a time when its tourism industry is delivering remarkable results.
In 2010, Singapore surpassed its tourism receipts forecast with a record of S$18.8 billion, driven by its increased attractiveness to affluent tourists in Asia and an infrastructure built to meet growing demands for luxury by discerning travellers.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Hotels and spas in Singapore will soon be rated by Forbes Travel Guide for the first time.
The ratings are based on objective evaluations of more than 500 attributes at each rated property.
Singapore is the fourth country to receive Forbes Travel Guide's Five-Star ratings, and the fourth city in Asia after Beijing, Hong Kong and Macau.
Forbes Travel Guide said its ratings would allow travellers to Singapore to make more informed decisions for their trips.
To achieve Five- and Four-Star status, properties must meet or exceed its bar-setting service standards, which are determined through an unannounced incognito service evaluation conducted by Forbes Travel Guide's professional inspectors.
Forbes Travel Guide enters Singapore at a time when its tourism industry is delivering remarkable results.
In 2010, Singapore surpassed its tourism receipts forecast with a record of S$18.8 billion, driven by its increased attractiveness to affluent tourists in Asia and an infrastructure built to meet growing demands for luxury by discerning travellers.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wisma Atria to get facelift
Wisma Atria to get facelift
Wisma Atria shopping mall on Orchard Road will get a facelift.
Starhill Global REIT said it plans to enhance the mall's positioning by redeveloping its frontage.
Phase one of the redevelopment is expected to cost about S$31 million and will in turn generate an additional net property income of around S$2.5 million a year.
The REIT manager said this represents a return on investment of about 8 per cent and costs will be funded from the proceeds of the rights issue completed in 2009.
Starhill said the first phase of the redevelopment will commence in the first quarter of this year and is expected to completed by the third quarter of next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wisma Atria shopping mall on Orchard Road will get a facelift.
Starhill Global REIT said it plans to enhance the mall's positioning by redeveloping its frontage.
Phase one of the redevelopment is expected to cost about S$31 million and will in turn generate an additional net property income of around S$2.5 million a year.
The REIT manager said this represents a return on investment of about 8 per cent and costs will be funded from the proceeds of the rights issue completed in 2009.
Starhill said the first phase of the redevelopment will commence in the first quarter of this year and is expected to completed by the third quarter of next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore F1 tickets to go on sale from Thursday
Singapore F1 tickets to go on sale from Thursday
Tickets for this year's SingTel Singapore Grand Prix in September will go on sale from Thursday.
Some 65,000 general admission tickets will be available.
Race Promoter Singapore GP has introduced a number of new ticketing initiatives for the event.
In addition to the usual popular early bird ticket prices, it is offering race-goers a Group Booking Special so that those who buy in bulk can benefit from greater savings.
The scheme is for the three largest grandstands - the Bay, Padang and Pit Grandstands.
The Group Booking Special offers savings of up to 16 per cent for fans who purchase eight or more tickets in one booking.
There are also increased discounts for early bird grandstand buyers, offering up to 17 per cent savings on regular priced tickets.
By combining the early-bird discounts with the Group Booking Special, fans can enjoy up to 30 per cent off a regular priced individual ticket in selected grandstands.
For example, fans who purchase eight Bay Grandstand tickets during the early bird phase will pay S$208 each, instead of S$298 at regular single ticket pricing.
The race promoter also revealed that multi award-winning band Linkin Park has been confirmed as the headlining act on race day, September 25 at the Padang main stage.
Full details of the complete S$5 million entertainment line-up will be announced in the coming months.
Tickets will be available online, through the ticketing hotline and via all SISTIC outlets.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tickets for this year's SingTel Singapore Grand Prix in September will go on sale from Thursday.
Some 65,000 general admission tickets will be available.
Race Promoter Singapore GP has introduced a number of new ticketing initiatives for the event.
In addition to the usual popular early bird ticket prices, it is offering race-goers a Group Booking Special so that those who buy in bulk can benefit from greater savings.
The scheme is for the three largest grandstands - the Bay, Padang and Pit Grandstands.
The Group Booking Special offers savings of up to 16 per cent for fans who purchase eight or more tickets in one booking.
There are also increased discounts for early bird grandstand buyers, offering up to 17 per cent savings on regular priced tickets.
By combining the early-bird discounts with the Group Booking Special, fans can enjoy up to 30 per cent off a regular priced individual ticket in selected grandstands.
For example, fans who purchase eight Bay Grandstand tickets during the early bird phase will pay S$208 each, instead of S$298 at regular single ticket pricing.
The race promoter also revealed that multi award-winning band Linkin Park has been confirmed as the headlining act on race day, September 25 at the Padang main stage.
Full details of the complete S$5 million entertainment line-up will be announced in the coming months.
Tickets will be available online, through the ticketing hotline and via all SISTIC outlets.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Fort Canning Green closed for returfing
Fort Canning Green closed for returfing
Haven't watched a gig at Fort Canning Green in a while?
That's because the popular concert venue has been closed since Jan 29, when the Laneway Festival was staged there.
The National Parks Board (NParks) told my paper that the one-day music festival damaged the grass turf, after it attracted more than 6,000 concert-goers that wet weekend.
An NParks spokesman said: "The heavy use during the Laneway Festival, compounded by the heavy rain, damaged the green."
It will reopen again in the middle of this month, added the NParks spokesman.
Those who attended the festival remember how the turf was transformed into a large slippery slope of brown mud.
It is not unusual for the venue, which can hold up to 7,000 people, to be closed after a large-scale event, said NParks. This is to allow for returfing, and the "resting of the lawn for about a month for the turf to regenerate", added NParks.
Returfing is typically carried out once a year.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Haven't watched a gig at Fort Canning Green in a while?
That's because the popular concert venue has been closed since Jan 29, when the Laneway Festival was staged there.
The National Parks Board (NParks) told my paper that the one-day music festival damaged the grass turf, after it attracted more than 6,000 concert-goers that wet weekend.
An NParks spokesman said: "The heavy use during the Laneway Festival, compounded by the heavy rain, damaged the green."
It will reopen again in the middle of this month, added the NParks spokesman.
Those who attended the festival remember how the turf was transformed into a large slippery slope of brown mud.
It is not unusual for the venue, which can hold up to 7,000 people, to be closed after a large-scale event, said NParks. This is to allow for returfing, and the "resting of the lawn for about a month for the turf to regenerate", added NParks.
Returfing is typically carried out once a year.
-News courtesy of Omy-
New visitors record for January
New visitors record for January
More than a million tourists visited Singapore in January a record for the month.
Industry players said the impressive figure of 1,055,000 16.2 per cent more than in the same period last year was due to the strong global economy, which made people more willing to spend on travel.
And the fact that the two integrated resorts had not yet opened in January last year made the increase even bigger.
The figures were released by the Singapore Tourism Board yesterday.
It was the first time more than a million tourists had arrived in January, typically a slower month following the peak travel period of December.
The first time Singapore breached the one-million mark in a month was in July last year, when 1,095,000 tourists came.
THE STRAITS TIMES
More than a million tourists visited Singapore in January a record for the month.
Industry players said the impressive figure of 1,055,000 16.2 per cent more than in the same period last year was due to the strong global economy, which made people more willing to spend on travel.
And the fact that the two integrated resorts had not yet opened in January last year made the increase even bigger.
The figures were released by the Singapore Tourism Board yesterday.
It was the first time more than a million tourists had arrived in January, typically a slower month following the peak travel period of December.
The first time Singapore breached the one-million mark in a month was in July last year, when 1,095,000 tourists came.
THE STRAITS TIMES
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