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MOM mandates hourly breaks for migrant workers working in hot weather

Jewel Stolarchuk
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MOM mandates hourly breaks for migrant workers working in hot weather

SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) announced on Tuesday (Oct 24) immediate measures for the welfare of outdoor workers in the face of rising temperatures to reduce the risk of heat stress. Effective immediately, outdoor workers facing temperatures of at least 32 degrees Celsius will be mandated to take a minimum 10-minute rest break in the shade every hour.

The move is a response to concerns about outdoor workers risking heat stress from extended exposure to high temperatures. In consultation with the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) Heat Stress Expert Panel, MOM introduced a comprehensive set of measures to mitigate the risk for workers. The measures include acclimatization, hydration, rest, and shade.

New employees must gradually acclimatize to outdoor work, and all outdoor workers must hydrate at least hourly, taking regular rest breaks in shaded areas to dissipate accumulated body heat. One notable measure requires employers to monitor the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) hourly during outdoor work, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.

Certain workplaces, including construction sites with contract sums of S$5 million or more, shipyards, and the process industry, will require a WBGT meter on-site for localized measurements. Others can utilize the National Environment Agency’s myENV app to monitor WBGT readings.

When the WBGT reaches 32 degrees Celsius or higher, a mandatory 10-minute rest break under shade must be provided for workers involved in strenuous physical activities. For workers with pre-existing health conditions, the rest duration may need to be extended as advised by their doctors.

Workplaces are also encouraged to implement a buddy system for early recognition of heat injury symptoms and prompt interventions.

Other supporting measures include rescheduling outdoor work, ventilating workplaces, providing appropriate clothing, closely monitoring worker health conditions, establishing emergency response plans, and monitoring WBGT.

MOM said it will conduct inspections to ensure that these measures are effectively implemented, and employers will be legally obligated to adhere to them under the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Act.

While these measures aim to protect workers, there are concerns among some employers about potential disruptions to work processes. The Workplace Safety and Health Council advises firms to collaborate with relevant authorities to minimize the impact on businesses while ensuring worker safety.

After dating a woman for 3 months, man says he’s not looking to get married

Obbana Rajah
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0
After dating a woman for 3 months, man says he’s not looking to get married

SINGAPORE: A 29-year-old woman took to social media after the man she was dating for three months said that he was not as serious as she was about the relationship.

In an anonymous post to popular confessions page NUSWhispers, the woman said they had met on a dating app and had been going out for the past three months. She added that they had been on about 15 or 16 dates in total. She also said that they had not been in relationships before. “He’s a chivalrous man and I really do like him. He even remembers everything that I have mentioned before (i.e. what I like/dislike, what I’d like to do and etc) and plans all the dates accordingly. He did mention that he kinda likes me and would like to continue going out with me after our 3rd or 4th date, which I agreed”, the woman wrote. She added that during their most recent date the man said that while he liked her, he was not prepared to commit himself because she was looking for a serious relationship that would eventually lead to marriage.

“He says that’s he’s also looking for something serious but not until that extent (marriage) yet. I really do like him, but I’m not sure if it’s a good idea to remain as friends (with the hope that he will change his mind?) Because I’m afraid I’ll fall harder for him the more time we spend together”, the woman wrote, asking netizens for advice.

One netizen commented: “He is looking for a “serious but not so serious until marriage” type of relationship. That’s telling you he has other options, not just you. Remaining as friends with him (in the hope that he might change his mind down the road) will be a painful lesson only for you, if he finds another option and then exits your life without a word. And you’ll be left hanging. So advice is: you should try to disconnect with him asap”.

Another also commented: “He has categorised you as ‘good for fun only, not for marriage’. Sorry babe that’s the hard truth. Now the ball is in your court, you can either provide the free fun he’s looking for (zero chance to change his mind), or walk away to show him you are worth more. Your choice.”

Earlier this year, a man took to social media asking others for suggestions on how to get rid of his sister’s jerk boyfriend. In an anonymous post to popular confessions page SGWhispers, the man said that his 22-year-old sister was dating a guy who was “26, an old repeat student and jobless”.

“Before my sister starts her job in another country, he proposed to her with a measly tiny diamond ring. The diamond is so small I think it’s not even 0.2 carat”, the man said. He shared that he told his sister not to accept the proposal and to start her job without him. He wrote that he often saw his sister crying while on the phone, so he knew the couple had frequent fights.

SGD-MYR exchange rate reaches new high of RM3.50

Jewel Stolarchuk
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SGD-MYR exchange rate reaches new high of RM3.50

SINGAPORE: The Singapore dollar exchange rate against the Malaysian ringgit reached a significant milestone on Tuesday (Oct 24) as it surged to break the MYR3.50 mark. According to data from Bloomberg, the Singapore dollar began the trading day at 3.5073 against the ringgit, a notable increase from the previous day’s close of 3.4910. The intraday peak was even higher, reaching 3.5083.

As the trading day progressed, by 5:30pm, the Singapore dollar settled at 3.5028 against the ringgit. Earlier in the day, the ringgit dipped below the 3.50 threshold. Analysts in Malaysia interviewed by Bernama have suggested that the ringgit’s current state is partially influenced by being oversold from a technical perspective. This, combined with rising international oil prices, could drive up demand for the Malaysian currency.

In the broader financial context, when paired with the US dollar, the Malaysian ringgit is at a 25-year low, fluctuating between 4.7900 and 4.7975 in recent trading sessions. These movements have attracted the attention of traders and investors, creating new trading opportunities in the market.

A spokesperson for Bank Negara Malaysia, quoted by Bloomberg, emphasized that the ringgit’s recent trajectory appears to be more influenced by global events and international factors rather than reflecting the fundamental strength of the Malaysian economy.

Local businesses and currency exchange providers in Singapore have also noticed the impact of this exchange rate trend.

Haja, a partner at HRBS, a currency exchange company in Clementi, reported that they’ve been exchanging ringgit at a rate of 3.47 to 3.48, with a noticeable uptick in customers seeking to exchange their currencies.

He attributed this trend to the robust Singapore dollar and the anticipation of the upcoming Deepavali long weekend and year-end school holidays, which have likely bolstered buying sentiment among consumers.

Chinese Embassy reminds Chinese nationals in SG to avoid using non-bank institutions to remit money

Jewel Stolarchuk
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0
Chinese Embassy reminds Chinese nationals in SG to avoid using non-bank institutions to remit money

SINGAPORE: The Chinese Embassy in Singapore has advised Chinese nationals working in the city-state to use formal channels, such as Singapore banks, to remit money home. This follows a series of incidents where Chinese nationals had their remittances frozen.

The embassy sent out the advisory through its official WeChat public account on Tuesday (Oct 24), expressing concern over reports from Chinese nationals falling victim to remittance issues after using remittance companies in Chinatown. In these cases, a portion or the entirety of the remitted funds had been frozen domestically.

The embassy acknowledges that the remittance companies in question hold legal qualifications for remittances in Singapore. However, it revealed that, in practice, these entities guide remitters to sign disclaimers or provide written reminders that exempt them from the risks associated with potential fund freezing. This has left remitters in a precarious position, unable to produce evidence or file complaints if their funds are frozen.

The Chinese Embassy in Singapore is, therefore, advising its nationals working in the city-state to resort to formal channels, such as banks, for remitting money. The embassy stressed the importance of refraining from seeking “high exchange rates” through unofficial, non-bank channels to protect themselves from financial harm and deception.

In the event of remittances being frozen, the embassy recommends that remitters diligently collect all remittance receipts and any other pertinent evidence and file a complaint with the Monetary Authority of Singapore against the remittance company believed to have violated the rules.

In cases where money laundering or fraud is suspected, individuals are also encouraged to report such incidents to the Singapore police.

Furthermore, the embassy announced that Chinese banks, notably the Bank of China’s Singapore Branch, have enhanced their RMB pre-settlement services. These improvements enable customers to enjoy free online remittance services through mobile banking 24 hours daily. This ensures that the payee receives the full amount of funds at the exchange rate of the day.

SG’s 3rd battery recycling facility officially opens

Jewel Stolarchuk
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0
SG’s 3rd battery recycling facility officially opens

SINGAPORE: Singapore’s commitment to sustainable waste management has reached a new milestone with the official opening of its third battery recycling facility. This state-of-the-art facility, located at Tuas South Lane, can process approximately 2,600 tons of batteries annually, contributing to a more than 30% increase in local recycling capacity.

This facility stands out because it is the first vertically built recycling facility in Singapore. Its design optimises space and streamlines the process of recycling old batteries. The facility’s operations involve crushing and breaking down used batteries to extract valuable metal elements, which are then transformed into new batteries.

The Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and Environment, Dr Koh Poh Koon, said on Tuesday (Oct 24) that this initiative not only boosts local recycling capabilities but also enhances the resilience of the e-waste recycling industry in Singapore.

Dr Koh also emphasized the potential for research collaboration and innovation, particularly in managing electric vehicle battery waste. He said, “First, it enhances local recycling capabilities. Second, it increases the resilience of our e-waste recycling industry.”

With the addition of this new facility, the total volume of batteries recycled in Singapore will significantly increase.

The three battery recycling facilities will be able to recycle a remarkable 11,000 tons of batteries annually.

Opening the third battery recycling facility is a crucial step towards ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable environment, reducing the environmental impact of discarded batteries, and promoting innovation in recycling practices.

SEA’s largest hydroponic glass greenhouse opens in SG, expected to supply 4 tons fresh vegetables daily

Jewel Stolarchuk
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0
SEA’s largest hydroponic glass greenhouse opens in SG, expected to supply 4 tons fresh vegetables daily

SINGAPORE: Southeast Asia’s largest hydroponic glass greenhouse has opened in Singapore and is set to revolutionize how we grow and consume fresh vegetables. The Green Harvest greenhouse, spanning an impressive 150,000 square feet, is the result of a collaboration between Kok Fah Technology Farm and Teambuild Group.

Green Harvest is poised to make an enduring impact on local agriculture with its state-of-the-art facilities and fully automated technology. Notably, the greenhouse employs innovative methods to maximize crop growth and minimize resource consumption.

One of the most striking advancements is the utilization of ultraviolet light irradiation, enabling vegetables to undergo photosynthesis at night. This technique shortens the planting-to-harvest time to a mere 28 days, a significant reduction compared to traditional farming methods.

A spokesperson for Green Harvest commented on the impact of this technology, pointing out that it has resulted in a remarkable decrease in required manpower. Traditionally, a farm of this size would demand approximately 80 employees, but thanks to automation, the workforce has been reduced to only 20 to 25 individuals.

Moreover, Green Harvest has put sustainability at the forefront of its operations. Implementing a closed-loop system that recycles water can reduce water consumption by a staggering 95%. Additionally, the greenhouse’s vertical farming approach allows for efficient land use, occupying three to five times less space than traditional farms.

The crops cultivated at Green Harvest encompass various vegetables, including local favourites such as milkweed and bak choy and some commonly used in Western cuisine. These fresh, high-quality vegetables will cater to local households, hotels, and restaurants in the region, enhancing the availability of locally-grown produce.

Furthermore, Green Harvest plays a significant role in the nation’s efforts to provide for the population’s nutritional needs. The ambitious goal of achieving 30% of the nutritional requirements for the people by 2030 is now within reach, thanks to the greenhouse’s advanced techniques and increased output.

27yo becomes 1st SG female to complete SAF commando course

Jewel Stolarchuk
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0
27yo becomes 1st SG female to complete SAF commando course

SINGAPORE: In a groundbreaking achievement, Captain Yap Hui Jun has shattered barriers and made history by becoming the first woman to complete the gruelling Singapore Armed Forces’ Ranger course. The 27-year-old accomplished this remarkable feat last week, following a 65-day journey that tested her physical and mental limits.

The Ranger course is renowned as one of the toughest military training programmes in the Singapore Armed Forces, designed to hone the operational leadership qualities of a small unit and develop the physical and mental attributes of soldiers capable of leading detachments in combat. Captain Yap’s triumph in this course has demonstrated her exceptional dedication and opened doors for women in the Singaporean military.

Captain Yap’s journey into the military began at 19, driven by her passion for training and desire to lead a life dedicated to service. She told the press, “My wish has always been to wear a green uniform and contribute to society.”

This was not Captain Yap’s first attempt at the Ranger course. She revealed that she had undertaken the challenge last year but could not complete it. Undeterred, she decided to give it another try this year, armed with an optimistic attitude from her previous experience.

The Ranger course, established at the Pasir Ris Military Camp in 1978, is typically a compulsory programme for Singapore commandos, although regular troops from other forces are permitted to participate, albeit with limited seats. Before entering the course, candidates must undergo a rigorous three-week preparatory fitness conditioning programme to meet stringent physical fitness requirements.

The course is conducted in three stages: technical training, sea and air combat skills, and other physical requirements, all aimed at pushing the trainees to maximize their physical fitness and leadership skills. Notably, failure at any stage doesn’t mark the end of one’s journey; soldiers can make another attempt, provided they complete a gruelling 20-kilometre combat march within four hours.

The first two stages of the Ranger course are held locally, while the third stage takes place at the Shoalwater Bay Training Area in Australia, adding an international dimension to the training. This course’s successful completion signifies a remarkable achievement for any soldier, and Captain Yap’s milestone as the first woman to conquer it stands as a testament to her extraordinary dedication and resilience.

Woman says she became depressed after separating from S$41K/month earning guy

Obbana Rajah
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0
Woman says she became depressed after separating from S$41K/month earning guy

SINGAPORE: A woman in her late 20s took to social media after leaving a depressing situation.

In an anonymous post to popular confessions page NUSWhispers, the woman said she was left hanging by a guy she met on a dating app. They reconnected a few years later. “We separated as he was only early months into army, he didn’t want commitment or let anyone else knew he was attached. Thereafter, we reconnected again and we both said nothing, it was silent but acted as though we were a couple. He puts his career first and likewise, didn’t want to commit but enjoying all the benefits, thoughtfulness and sweetness I would bring to him”. The woman added that she fell into depression after ending a relationship which never officially started.

“He knew I had feelings for him but watched me falling in love with him, without telling me to stop. However, as years past it just takes that one brave moment to turn away from him when all red flags were clear and seen. It saddens me how the bad people live a good life (he is in the sales industry and earns nearly half a million income) while i’m everyday working 9-5 just to lead a stable life. Life is so unfair, just because he’s rich he gets away from the wrongdoings and living a good life than many others who are more deserving and down to earth”, the woman wrote. She asked netizens for their thoughts on the matter.

Netizens who commented on the post said ultimately she chose to be with the guy despite knowing what he was doing. One said: “You’ve got yourself to blame honestly. You knew exactly what you got into and continued it. So stop whining and blaming the world”. Another commented: “You chose to be in a situation-ship with this guy, with both eyes open, heart and mind willing, all the while knowing he’s not going to put in any commitment, and you still blame the entire world for your own decision?”.

Earlier this year, a young woman who just graduated from the National University of Singapore (NUS) took to social media to share her poor experience on her first-ever date. In an anonymous post to popular confessions page NUSWhispers, the woman wrote that she was evergreen or had no relationship or dating experience.

She added that she “didn’t find love during my university days as I was focusing on my studies. I was never into the idea of using a dating app but my friends had always been encouraging me to”.

She wrote that she found it intimidating to meet and talk to strangers. At the insistence of her friends, she went on a dating app and matched with someone she saw potential in. After messaging for about a month, she mustered the courage to meet him in person. “He brought me to fast food restaurant on the first date and we went dutch. & He then ghosted me after a few weeks”, she wrote.

Malware: How scammers control your phone and steal your money

Mary Alavanza
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Malware: How scammers control your phone and steal your money

SINGAPORE: “How can scammers control our phones and steal our money?” is a question that has become more pressing in the wake of staggering losses between January and August in Singapore. At least S$20 million was lost to malicious malware scams during this period. To shed light on these scams’ inner workings and to alert Android and iPhone users, the program Talking Point conducted an investigation, revealing the increasingly blurry line between security and vulnerability, as reported by CNA.

One victim, Junia Tan, saw an enticing deal online—a fried chicken dinner with free delivery, found on a Facebook ad. The catch? She had to download an app to complete her order, unwittingly inviting malicious software, or malware, into her phone. The danger lies in seemingly harmless apps. For instance, Talking Point discovered an app offering S$5 items. Users were prompted to log in to their bank accounts, enabling scammers to access their credentials. With malware’s reach, it can prompt a factory reset to mask unauthorized transactions.

How does Malware Work?

Malware infiltrates your phone when you click a link or download an app. Attackers implant features that eavesdrop or extract data. Verity Lim from NUS Greyhats, an information security group, gave an example stating, “A keylogger will monitor what you tap on your device’s keyboard, extracting your username and password as you enter them.” Some malware can also capture screenshots.

Android’s Vulnerability

Malware scams in Singapore have primarily targeted Android phones. Android’s popularity compared to iPhones makes them an appealing target. Android’s open ecosystem allows third-party app installation, setting it apart from Apple’s closed system.

Google scans apps before allowing them in the Play Store, but some scammers exploit app updates. As billions of apps flood Google Play, it becomes a challenge to identify threats. Google employs Play Protect, which scans apps for malicious activity before and after download. However, controlling downloads from unofficial sources is complicated, as users grant permissions unknowingly.

The Looming Threat on iOS

Scammers have infiltrated Apple’s App Store, suggesting that iOS is not immune to threats. Attacks on iOS are expected to rise globally. These attacks are becoming more sophisticated, featuring zero-click attacks. Victims don’t need to click links; scammers infiltrate devices via emails, text messages, and phone calls.

How to Protect Yourself from Malware

In the face of these threats, experts offer essential advice:

  1. Heed Warnings: Take device warnings seriously and exercise caution with app downloads.
  2. Use Play Protect: Android users should conduct daily scans with Play Protect.
  3. Exercise Caution: Be vigilant about app sources, especially low download counts for popular apps.
  4. Two Devices: Isolate banking and social activities on separate devices to minimize risk.
  5. Stay Informed: Keep updated on the latest scams and threats. Consider a factory reset as a last resort if your device becomes infected.

Awareness and vigilance are our best defence against malware attacks. Staying informed and cautious is crucial to safety from digital threats.

/TISG

 

Read also: 

Jamus Lim: Resident shares concerns over migrant professionals crowding out locals – Singapore News 

Resident talks to Jamus Lim about challenges singles face in Singapore 

Resident tells Jamus Lim that higher prices are “too close, too many, can’t breathe” – Singapore News 

Singdollar cheques: Banks to charge S$0.75 to S$3

Mary Alavanza
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0
Singdollar cheques: Banks to charge S$0.75 to S$3

SINGAPORE: Singaporean banks to charge S$0.75 to S$3 starting Nov 1 for issuing Singapore Dollar (SGD)-denominated cheques. This decision will affect individual and corporate customers and is part of an effort to adapt to the digital age and cover rising cheque-processing costs, as reported by CNA.

The fee structure for these SGD-denominated cheques will range from S$0.75 to S$3, according to the information available on the websites of seven major banks: DBS, UOB, OCBC, Citibank, HSBC, Maybank, and Standard Chartered.

For US dollar-denominated cheques, fees will begin at US$0.55 and go up to US$3.

Notably, these charges will be waived for customers aged 60 and above until 2025. This temporary relief gives customers more time to transition to digital payment methods. Some banks, such as DBS and Standard Chartered, have indicated that they may consider exceptions for specific clients facing exceptional circumstances.

Here’s a quick overview of the fees set to be imposed for issuing cheques by individual customers effective Nov 1, 2023:

  • Citibank: S$3 per SGD cheque, US$3 per USD cheque
  • DBS: S$0.75 per SGD cheque, US$1 per USD cheque
  • HSBC: S$1 per SGD cheque, Free for USD cheque
  • Maybank: S$0.75 per SGD cheque, US$0.75 per USD cheque
  • OCBC: S$0.75 per SGD cheque, US$0.55 per USD cheque
  • Standard Chartered: S$3 per SGD cheque, US$3 per USD cheque
  • UOB: S$0.75 per SGD cheque, US$0.55 per USD cheque

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS) initially announced this move in July. The decision to impose these charges for issuing SGD-denominated cheques is a response to the increasing costs of cheque processing and the declining use of cheques.

MAS and ABS have highlighted that the average cost of clearing a cheque has risen significantly, from S$0.10 in 2016 to S$0.40 in 2021. If cheque volumes continue to fall, as anticipated, by another 70%, these costs are expected to surge to between S$2 and S$6 by 2025. Most banks have been subsidizing these costs, but due to the projected increase, they can no longer do so.

To address these challenges, seven banks are taking the lead by introducing these new fees, with other banks expected to follow suit by Jul 1, 2024.

In addition to fees for cheque issuance, depositors will also face charges for cheque deposits in the future. However, most banks have not disclosed specific details about these deposit charges. UOB, Maybank, and DBS have mentioned that cheque deposits will remain free for at least six months after Nov 1, 2023, thanks to government agencies and organisations’ increasing adoption of alternative payment methods such as PayNow. These banks have committed to keeping their customers informed about any changes.

While the move to charge for cheques is aimed at covering processing costs and encouraging the adoption of digital payments, it is important to note that individual cheque users will still have the option to issue cheques for a period beyond 2025, providing them with a longer transition period towards alternative payment methods.

MAS, alongside the Association of Banks in Singapore, the financial industry, and government agencies are the ones to facilitate this transition. The goal is to develop an e-payment solution that can serve as an alternative for post-dated cheques, enhancing convenience for both corporates and individuals.

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