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PM Lee, Anwar meet over RTS Link, Johor-Singapore special economic zone

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SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his Malaysian counterpart, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, are affirming today (11 Jan) their commitment to two transformative megaprojects, marking another significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the neighboring nations.

The leaders have a busy itinerary today, attending high-level functions that hold strategic importance for both Malaysia and Singapore.

One of the main items on the agenda is to discuss the Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link project, a billion-ringgit railway shuttle link spanning approximately 4km with stations in Bukit Chagar, Johor Bahru, and Woodlands North, Singapore.

Mass Rapid Transit Corp Sdn Bhd is overseeing the development of the 2.7km Malaysian segment and its associated structures, while the joint operations will be managed by Prasarana Malaysia Bhd and Singapore’s SMRT Corp Ltd.

Upon completion, the RTS Link will become the third land bridge connecting Malaysia and Singapore, potentially alleviating the notorious traffic congestion at the Johor Causeway.

Following the RTS meeting, the Prime Ministers will proceed to another significant event, where they will witness the signing of a memorandum of understanding on the Johor-Singapore special economic zone.

The concept of the economic zone was initially proposed by Malaysia’s Economy Minister, Mohd Rafizi Ramli, after discussions with the Johor government in Iskandar Puteri in May of the previous year. Subsequently, both countries established a special task force in July to study the establishment of this economic zone.

Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi expressed optimism about the potential success of the economic zone, drawing parallels with the rapid transformation of the Chinese city of Shenzhen. Over the past four decades, Shenzhen evolved from a small city of 300,000 people into a high-tech international metropolis boasting a population exceeding 17 million.

In 2022, Johor secured RM70.6 billion in foreign investments across various sectors, with Singapore emerging as the state’s second-largest foreign investor, contributing to approximately 70 per cent of foreign direct investment in Johor’s manufacturing sector.

The establishment of the Johor-Singapore special economic zone is expected to further enhance cross-border trade and business activities, not only between Malaysia and Singapore but also positioning the region as an attractive hub within the broader Asian economic landscape.

IKEA recalls fast charger due to burn and electric shock risks

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Ikea
Photo: Facebook / Ikea Singapore

SINGAPORE: Swedish furniture retailer IKEA has issued a voluntary recall for its ÅSKSTORM 40W USB charger dark grey (article number 60461197), in response to potential thermal burn and electric shock hazards associated with the product. Customers who own this specific charger are strongly advised to discontinue its use immediately and reach out to IKEA for a full refund.

The safety concern arises from the possibility of the power cable becoming damaged or broken, particularly after extended use where it may be wrapped around the charger or bent back and forth. This damage may lead to thermal burns and electric shock, prompting IKEA to take swift action in recalling the fast charger.

As of now, no incidents related to the recalled product have been reported in Singapore.

Customers can identify the affected charger by checking for the model number ICPSW5-40-1, which is located on the label on the backside of the USB charger.

IKEA has urged affected customers to return the charger to any IKEA store for a full refund. Proof of purchase is not required for the refund process.

IKEA, in a statement, expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the recall and reassured customers that their commitment to safety remains unwavering. The company encourages affected individuals to act promptly in discontinuing the use of the charger and seeking a refund to ensure the well-being of all consumers.

Mother stunned to find sharp screw in mixed rice

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Photo: FB/COMPLAINT SINGAPORE

SINGAPORE: A woman recently took to social media to share that she discovered a “sharp small screw” in a plate of vegetarian mixed rice and expressed her fear that her son could have swallowed it if she hadn’t noticed it in time.

“Today bought Vegetables rice From – kimly vegetables rice 🍚 it’s very scary for my son almost swallowed a sharp small screw 🔩 😳😧,” Ms Chérie Woon Quin wrote on Facebook Group COMPLAINT SINGAPORE on Wednesday (10 Jan).

Ms Quin also shared photos of the meal on her post, one of which showed the silver screw covered in rice and hardly visible. 

                                                        Photo: FB/COMPLAINT SINGAPORE

 

                                                         Photo: FB/COMPLAINT SINGAPORE

 

      Photo: FB/COMPLAINT SINGAPORE

Foreign body ingestions are common cases for children, but in this case, the sharp object can become stuck and lead to a puncture in the digestive tract, thus requiring urgent removal.

Also, they can damage the esophagus’ thin walls and cause bleeding. The esophagus and the mediastinum may also become infected if the tear is large.

Netizens: “Screw must be from pot or frying pan”

The post was also shared in another Facebook Group, ‘Singapore Incidents’, and netizens there suspected that the screw must have originated from a pot or frying pan and urged her to inform the store.

“Screw must be from the pot or frying pan lah,” one netizen wrote.

“Do forget to call the outlet and inform them about these issues,” another netizen added.

Another netizen also shared that she had a similar case in the past, “I never post it ,it happen to me also Fish Bihon soup, im in Finishing it i see screw, i just talk to the owner and be mindful nextime, inside using HP while eating all eyes to our food especially Children ..sometimes error boss dont know.”

Similar case in another country

Surprisingly, metal screws are included in the list of the most commonly found foreign objects in meals, in addition to insects, rodents, animal hair, plastic, wood, paper, and glass.

Seven months ago, a similar case in another country was reported on Reddit. A man had his food delivered through doordash, and, upon opening it, he discovered a small screw in his meal.

         Photo: Reddit Screengrab

What steps can I take to help my child manage or avoid ingesting foreign bodies?

Pay attention to your child. Check his food for foreign objects before feeding him/her.

Search for the object every time your child has a bowel movement. Most small or smooth things go through the digestive tract and come out in a bowel movement without a hitch. Don’t give your child laxatives, or stool softeners, or make them vomit. 

Seek immediate care. If your child suddenly doesn’t want to eat, is irritable, drooling, or vomiting, you should be open to the possibility that he or she might have ingested a foreign object. In addition, if your child has bloody vomit, rectal bleeding, abdominal or chest pain, or feels like something is “stuck,” you should take them to the hospital.

 

Netizens defend bus driver who “controlled the wheels with elbows”, calling passenger who took photo “cowardly”

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Photo: FB/(buses[IN]gapore!) screengrab

SINGAPORE: A photo of a bus driver “controlling the wheels with his elbows” made the rounds online, but instead of condemning the driver, the majority of the netizens criticised the passenger who took the snapshot, calling him “cowardly” for shaming the driver online instead of telling him directly that it was dangerous.

The photo was posted in the Facebook page, “(buses[IN]gapore!)”, and the passenger said, “Controlling the steering wheel with elbows (both hands not on steering wheel) at 60km/h on rainy day…and plucking fingers scratch chin etc – for quite a while. Yeah the bus made it safely to Woodlands but weird sight to see.”

After coming across the post, the majority of the netizens voiced their disapproval of the passenger’s behavior.

One netizen said, “It is utterly cowardly to take someone’s photo and potentially affect their livelihood in the name of FB likes. If you feel it was dangerous, you should have told the driver immediately rather than take a photo.”

Another netizen also pointed out that what was more important was that the driver had his eyes on the road, adding, “He’s doing that. The ability to control the steering wheel with any part of the hands varies with individual.”

One netizen also asked, “Why not ask the driver instead of posting it in social media and back stabbing the driver? If you are really concern then approach the driver politely than posting it and ruin his career.”

Several netizens also praised the bus driver, deeming the way he drove the bus a “skill” that was not that dangerous since his feet “were ready to hit the breaks if necessary.”

The passenger who took the photo also defended himself several times in the comments section, stating that he only said that it was “a weird sight” and that he was allowed to take a photo and post it on any social media, like others.

The caption was also edited, and the passenger added, “Don’t come call names, claim baseless claims etc. Just like how I don’t interfere with what you post on Facebook, you don’t either. There’s always other places for your comments and unhappiness, thanks.”

Does Singapore allow individuals to take photos of someone without their consent?

Even without consent, it is generally legal to film and take pictures of people in public, according to Gloria James-Civetta and Co Singapore Criminal Lawyers. 

However, a picture or video may cross legal boundaries if it was taken in a private setting, like a restroom, during a private activity, if it showed private body parts, or if it was taken with the intention of intimidating or harassing someone.

In cases where you happen to be a part of or the subject of a photo or video that was posted online, you can request that it be taken down from a page.

Nancy Pelosi blasts Trump for saying he wished the economy crashes

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Nancy Pelosi blasts Trump for saying he wished the economy crashes

Pelosi

In a recent interview on Lindell TV with Loud Dobbs, former President Donald Trump made eyebrow-raising comments about the economy, prompting strong reactions from political figures, including Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.

In response to questions about the state of the economy, Trump quipped that he hopes it crashes within the next 12 months, emphasizing that he does not want to inherit what he perceives as a troubled economic landscape.

“I hope it’s gonna be during these next 12 months because I don’t wanna be Herbert Hoover,” Trump remarked, drawing parallels to the president during the Great Depression.

Insensitive and grotesque

Rep. Nancy Pelosi swiftly condemned Trump’s comments, describing them as “insensitive and grotesque.”

Speaking with Jen Psaki, former press secretary for President Joe Biden, on MSNBC, Nancy Pelosi expressed her apprehension.

“He says he wants the economy to crash. I guess he doesn’t know what that means to America’s working families,” Pelosi remarked, highlighting what she sees as a lack of understanding on Trump’s part.

 The Messiah

Pelosi also took a swipe at Trump’s self-proclaimed messianic status, stating, “He calls himself the messiah. I guess he doesn’t know much about the Messiah.”

She criticized the former president for being out of touch with the issues that matter to working families, accusing him of prioritizing the interests of wealthy campaign donors over the well-being of ordinary Americans.

The White House and Biden’s reelection campaign also joined the chorus of criticism against Trump’s remarks.

The administration characterized the comments as reckless and questioned Trump’s grasp of economic realities. Pelosi further emphasized that Trump’s indifference to the economic consequences on everyday Americans reflects his disconnect from the concerns of working families.

As the political landscape evolves, Trump’s controversial statements will likely fuel discussions on economic policies and their implications for American households.

Read More News

Conservatives giving props to court system enhancing safety by literally chaining man who attacked judge 

Cover Photo: YouTube

 

The post Nancy Pelosi blasts Trump for saying he wished the economy crashes appeared first on The Independent News.

Freedom Caucus rejects Speaker Johnson’s spending deal

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freedom-caucus-rejects-speaker-johnson’s-spending-deal
Freedom Caucus rejects Speaker Johnson’s spending deal

freedom caucus

Freedom Caucus members have expressed frustration over the bipartisan government spending deal brokered by Speaker Mike Johnson.

The $1.59 trillion budget agreement, labeled as “bogus,” “terrible,” “bloated,” and “wasteful,” drew ire from the Freedom Caucus members.

Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer led the negotiations. The deal, hailed as a step to avert a government shutdown, faced criticism from the Freedom Caucus for not achieving significant budget cuts.

Schumer highlighted that Democrats preserved nondefense spending at $772 billion, the same figure agreed upon with Biden and former Speaker Kevin McCarthy last year. He emphasized protecting priorities like housing programs, veterans benefits, healthcare, nutrition programs, small business support, and funding for federal law enforcement.

What’s the House Majority for?

Despite claims of victory from Johnson, Democrats downplayed the significance of $10 billion in accelerated IRS funding cuts, stressing that new tools to audit the wealthy would remain in place.

Rep. Good expressed disappointment with settling for Democrat-approved caps and questioned the impact of having a House majority.

Johnson’s questionable negotiation skills

Other members, like Norman and Roy, voiced strong opposition to the spending deal, with Norman calling it a “near total abdication” of Speaker Johnson’s responsibilities.

Rosendale criticized the concessions made by Democrats and insisted on securing the border before approving any government funding bills.

Former Trump budget chief Russ Vought, an advisor to the Freedom Caucus, criticized Johnson’s negotiation skills on social media, stating that “lettuce could have negotiated a better deal.”

Freedom Caucus facing challenges

The Freedom Caucus, adamant about spending cuts and securing the border, faces both challenges and criticisms in rallying support for their stance. Rosendale emphasized the need to use every available tool to address what he called a “never-before-seen security crisis,” even suggesting the possibility of shutting down Washington to achieve border security goals.

Read More News

Conservatives calling Nikki Haley “too woke” to be Republican politician 

Cover Photo: YouTube

The post Freedom Caucus rejects Speaker Johnson’s spending deal appeared first on The Independent News.

Gen Z’s “soft saving” financial philosophy “makes the most of life now than waiting till retirement”

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Photo: Freepik/krakenimages.com (for illustrations purposes only)

SINGAPORE: A financial paradigm shift among younger generations, including Singaporeans, specifically Generation Z, is the practice of “soft saving”, which is their financial philosophy to “make the most of life whilst they’re young and fit, rather than waiting till retirement.”

In a departure from the conventional approach of planning for financial milestones or retirement, Gen Zs are “reallocating their hard-earned income to improve their immediate quality of life.”

What is Soft Saving?

According to MoneySmart, this financial philosophy, known as “soft life,” challenges the traditional wisdom of saving for retirement and property, reflecting a desire to “make the most of the present.”

Soft saving focuses more on travelling and immersing in new experiences, personal development, wellness and mental health.

What’s the Difference between Soft Saving and Hard Saving?

The difference between soft saving and hard saving lies in their focus and approach.

Hard saving is the traditional method of saving for significant life events such as retirement, property, and other long-term goals.

On the other hand, soft saving prioritises savouring life in the present, nurturing mental health, and personal development.

While hard saving aims for a secure future, soft saving seeks to provide immediate satisfaction and motivation.

Why do Gen Zs “Soft Save”?

Travel Agent Central reports that 62% of Gen Z are working and saving for travel, and 69% prefer affordable choices but are okay with treating themselves now and then.

Gen Z’s inclination towards soft saving is shaped by their unique experiences, including the impact of the 2008 financial crisis and the uncertainties brought about by the global pandemic.

Witnessing their parents’ struggles during these economic downturns and the burden of student loans has influenced Gen Z to question the traditional approach to financial security.

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram further reinforce the belief that spending on experiences contributing to joy and mental well-being is acceptable, prompting a departure from the hard-saving mindset.

How Does Soft Saving Work Long-Term?

While soft saving is often associated with immediate gratification, its long-term sustainability is a crucial consideration. To ensure the effectiveness of soft saving as a long-term strategy, one must strike a balance between immediate gratification and future needs.

As per MoneySmart, soft saving can work long-term when you:

  • Practice Mindful Spending: Be aware of where your money goes. Ensure it reflects your values and positively contributes to your well-being, avoiding unnecessary stress.
  • Commit to Regular Saving: Set aside a portion of your earnings consistently for the future. This includes planning for retirement and creating an emergency fund for unexpected situations.
  • Diversify Investments: Spread your money across different assets. This helps generate extra income and grow your wealth over time, making your soft saving journey more manageable.
  • Implement Budgeting: Create a budget to control your spending. Ensure there’s enough for essentials and leave room for enjoyment without draining your wallet.
  • Prioritize Financial Education: Keep educating yourself about money management. The more you know, the better your decisions will be
  • Engage with Financial Advisers: Seek professional advice. They can offer tailored strategies, helping you balance soft savings with traditional savings to keep your finances in check.

Gen Zs are “rewriting the narrative.” Perhaps “labour till you’re approximately 65” may not be the only way to a fulfilling retirement after all. /TISG

Elon Musk claims Arizona not asking for proof of citizenship for illegals who vote 

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Elon Musk claims Arizona not asking for proof of citizenship for illegals who vote 

transphobe, Cramer, elon musk

There are several claims made about the upcoming 2024 elections by both the liberals and conservatives. On one hand, the liberals are trying their level hardest to have Trump arrested, and the conservatives are saying that illegals are allowed to vote in woke states. Elon Musk apparently claims that Arizona states that no proof of citizenship is required to vote. 

According to AZCentral, Elon Musk’s tweet hints at voter irregularities in Arizona, prompting MAGA uproar, alleging Democrats’ immigrant-driven voter inflow. Kari Lake joins, condemning voter registration maneuvers. A photo implicates Secretary of State Adrian Fontes in alleged tactics.

Following that, clarifying Musk’s misconception, federal elections don’t mandate citizenship proof. But Arizona, unique, demands it for state ballots. County Recorder Stephen Richer sets the record straight: Arizona’s the sole state requiring proof. Yet Musk’s outreach eclipses this truth, fueling skepticism.

Despite evidence revealing a minuscule impact on elections, Musk’s musings persist. Followers echo, fearing a phantom voter invasion. As reality debunks misinformation, the truth struggles to pierce Musk’s wide-reaching narrative. The fallout? Heightened mistrust in Arizona’s electoral system.

X users react to Elon Musk’s claims 

Some users are criticising the woke ideology where asking a voter for their voter ID is problematic, but at the same time, asking someone if they’re vaccinated, it’s alright. However, the bottom line is that the state of Arizona would still require the individual to be an American citizen to vote for the general election. 

Liberals are calling Elon Musk a “liar” and that his audience would be gullible enough to believe whatever he says. Despite this, conservatives are firm that this is the end goal of the liberals, which is allowing illegals to vote in the United States. 

Read More News

Conservatives calling Nikki Haley “too woke” to be Republican politician 

The post Elon Musk claims Arizona not asking for proof of citizenship for illegals who vote  appeared first on The Independent News.

Ted Kennedy allegedly told Trump that Biden was the “dumbest” senator

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Ted Kennedy allegedly told Trump that Biden was the “dumbest” senator

Ted Kennedy

Americans are obviously tired with Biden’s rule of America after bringing in large quantities of illegals into the country. This is also coupled with the failure of Bidenomics towards the American people. A video surfaced on X with Trump claiming that Ted Kennedy was allegedly telling him that Joe Biden was the “dumbest” senator. 

Brietbart states, Donald Trump reveals Joe Biden was deemed ‘dumbest’ by Ted Kennedy and Senate peers, criticizing Biden’s vicious circle and lack of intelligence. He accuses Biden’s radical left entourage of potential self-destruction, while underlining Kennedy’s testimony on Biden’s incapacity for complex policy comprehension. 

Trump, pointing out Biden’s public ‘nice’ image, echoes Kennedy’s assertion of Biden’s lack of understanding on intricate issues. Trump further condemns leftist influence on Biden, steering the country and utilizing law enforcement as weapons. 

Ted Kennedy: Biden is the “dumbest” senator 

Many conservatives are upset at hearing this as they feel the media is controlling the entire electoral game. Furthermore, X users feel that the voters should be knowledgeable and informative about their respective candidates to make an appropriate decision. 

 

A video clip on X shows Trump making the claim that Ted Kennedy informed him of Biden’s intelligence. However, liberals are vehemently unhappy with the statement and proceed to post people accusing Trump of being “unintelligent.”

 

Conservatives on the other hand agree with what Ted Kennedy allegedly said. They state that after almost 4 years of having Biden as their President, he has done a colossal amount of errors and mistakes that are costing America a pretty penny. 

Read More News

Court of Appeals rejects Trump’s immunity plea

The post Ted Kennedy allegedly told Trump that Biden was the “dumbest” senator appeared first on The Independent News.

Eatery menu shows food prices up by 20%, even 25% — S’porean says it’s the “real world effect of 1% GST”

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Photo: Reddit screengrab/u/khaizersozay

SINGAPORE: A local Reddit user posted the prices from a local eatery showing the “real world effect” of the Goods & Services Tax hike. While the GST went up by one per cent from Jan 1, 2024, on the ground, prices have increased at much higher rates.

u/khaizersozay posted the menu of Ponggol Nasi Lemak from 2022 when GST was at seven per cent, and one from 2023 when it was at eight per cent, as well as the one from this year at 9 per cent.

Reddit screengrab/u/khaizersozay

 

Reddit screengrab/u/khaizersozay

 

Reddit screengrab/u/khaizersozay

“Someone do the math,” the post author wrote.

The menus show that prices have definitely gone up, especially from last year to this. For example, French Bean, which used to be S$1.20 is now S$1.50, a 25 per cent increase. An egg, which was S$1.00 is now S$1.20, a 20 per cent markup.

u/khaizersozay’s post has gotten a lot of attention, with many commenters weighing in, as some have noticed this type of price increases in a multiple places.

“The 7-11 muffin, from $2 to $2.20. Nasi lemak near home $3.5 to 3.8. 1% vs 10% up. Zero effort 9% profit,” wrote one.

Others worried that salary increases are not coming at the same pace as price increases. “How many of us get 10% salary increase? Maybe only the ministers,” one opined.

“Is this the ripple impact of a GST increase, or is it greedflation? Cos there’s a whole lot of the latter going on in all kinds of industries,” another chimed in.

Some, however, wrote that other factors are also in play, such as higher rental, fuel, and insurance prices, as well as more expensive ingredients.

“I argue that price increase by 1-2% was an unrealistic expectation, especially for end-users,” wrote another, adding, “It’s ‘impossible’ to raise price by just 1-2%, e.g. for a bag of fishballs it’s increased in price by about 10-20c. Noodles also increase price, ketchup increase price, soy sauce increase price. So your bowl of fishball noodles is the cumulative product of every price increase further up the supply chain.”

In a Facebook post on Tuesday (Jan 9), Workers’ Party MP Jamus Lim touched on the topic as well, writing:

“Many of those we spoke to mentioned hikes that went far beyond the one percent GST increase (jumps seem to range in the tens of cents, rather than single digits, as might be implied by a 1 percent rise), as merchants took the opportunity to revise prices more generally, across the board.”

However, some of the points Assoc Prof Lim raised in his post were rebutted by Senior Minister of State for Finance Chee Hong Tat on Wednesday (Jan 10) in a Facebook post of his own.

Mr Chee wrote that the WP MP “should provide details of these merchants to the (Committee Against Profiteering) CAP, so that it can investigate and take action against any errant businesses seeking to profiteer from the GST increase.” /TISG

Read also: ‘Are You Seeing Similar Signs?’ — Lim Tean draws attention to higher prices due to GST hike