http://easyapps.sg/SGEPA convenient place for Singaporeans to read about the social, economic and political issues that will be raised in the next general election - expected to be held in 2010 or 2011.SINGAPORE: The government has announced the full alignment for the 21.5-kilometre-long North-South Expressway (NSE), with the southern segment unveiled on Tuesday. The final 5.6-kilometre stretch of the expressway will be an underground tunnel beginning from Toa Payoh Rise and ending at East Coast Parkway. It will pass along Thomson Road, Bukit Timah Road and Ophir Road before leading to the East Coast Parkway Expressway. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 16 Nov 2011 02:23:31 GMTSINGAPORE - The PUB is studying the possibility of a new diversion canal off the Stamford Canal in Orchard Road, which saw flooding in recent years. The water agency is also assessing the need for a retention pond in the area, Environment and Water Resources Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said in a media interview yesterday. The PUB study, which began in August, will be completed in May next year. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 16 Nov 2011 01:56:10 GMTSingapore is one of the few countries, if not the only country in the world whose government explicitly states that property does not simply provide shelter, but is also an investment, a nest egg, a retirement plan, and an asset that is meant to grow appreciably in value over (Source; sgpolitics.net)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 16 Nov 2011 01:46:26 GMTSINGAPORE - A greater police presence and more "eyes" on the ground - in the form of CCTV cameras - to deter crime are what residents can look forward to in the coming years. And more than just increasing the number of police officers on patrol, the quality of engagement with the community will also be improved. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 15 Nov 2011 01:14:05 GMTBoth stray dogs and cats in Singapore will soon find roofs over their heads in Housing Board flats. While the mutts will be rehomed under a nationwide pilot project, their feline counterparts will be starting small - in Chong Pang. (Source: straitstimes.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 14 Nov 2011 01:49:26 GMTBecause this is a global thing, it is very sensitive, the police officer told an organiser of SlutWalk Singapore, scheduled for 4 December 2011. His boss wanted to know more about the nature of the event, he added. He would "help" the organisers, he assured them, and provide "advice". Perhaps that advice might be to cancel the whole thing, give up and crawl back into our timid, patriarchal shells? (Source: yawningbread)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 14 Nov 2011 01:41:53 GMTThe first thing you notice when you enter Madam Anna's (not her real name) flat is that the handles of the metal grille gate have broken off, with two wooden blocks crudely fastened in their place. Her boys had been kicking a football around and damaged the gate, and to save money, the housewife and her husband decided to repair it themselves with pieces of wood someone had discarded at the void deck of their block in Choa Chu Kang. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 14 Nov 2011 01:40:13 GMTSINGAPORE: Singapore workers are happier than they were compared to previous years. The overall average Work Happiness Indicator score was 57.4 out of 100, the highest since the survey was started two years ago. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 10 Nov 2011 07:40:22 GMTSINGAPORE - A three-bedroom condominium for rent in Singapore's cosmopolitan Claymore Hill area in the central part of the island boasts a pool, a gymnasium, and proximity to the Orchard Road shopping district. It would be a great catch for any high income family - unless you happen to be Indian. (blogs.wsj.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 10 Nov 2011 07:33:06 GMThe London cab service here will be extended for one more year following feedback from wheelchair users and their associations, Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Chan Chun Sing announced on Thursday. (Source: straitstimes.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 10 Nov 2011 07:31:19 GMTSINGAPORE - Singapore Airlines (SIA) is hoping to muscle in on Asia's burgeoning no-frills travel market with a new long-haul budget carrier it is calling Scoot. The low-cost airline will begin operating by June next year with four Boeing 777-200 jets flying by the end of that year, chief executive Campbell Wilson said at a press conference yesterday. According to Mr Wilson, Scoot will offer two classes of cabin, with economy tickets priced at up to 40 per cent less than those of full-service carriers. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 02 Nov 2011 02:11:12 GMTThe MDA has now decided that they have to step in and regulate the Pay TV contracts as follows: The contract should not exceed 2 years There should be pro-rata refund on cancellation of contract. This move, which is taken after a long time of free market practices, recognizes the weakness of the free market system. The businesses make things complicated and opaque and imposes unfair charges to boost their profits and take advantage of consumers. (Source: TKL's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 02 Nov 2011 01:58:31 GMTBy Dr Wong Wee Nam 01 November 2011 What is happiness? To a Buddhist monk, the cause of suffering is ignorant craving. To Aristotle, it is something more tangible. According to him, "The masses take it to be something plain and tangible, like pleasure or money or social standing. Some maintain that it is one of these, some that it is another, and the same man will change his opinion about it more than once. When he has caught an illness he will say that it is health, and when he is hard up, he will say that it is money." (Source: sgpolitics.net)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 02 Nov 2011 01:53:35 GMTSINGAPORE: Minister of State for Manpower and National Development, Tan Chuan-Jin said discriminatory practices have no place in Singapore. Speaking at the Singapore Tripartism Forum on Monday, he said tripartite partners are aware that many Singaporeans have expressed anxieties of discriminatory practices at their work place, including allegations of foreign managers hiring their own kind. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 31 Oct 2011 07:28:26 GMTSINGAPORE: The Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts (MICA) is seeking public feedback on the proposed scope and implementation of a national Do-Not-Call (DNC) Registry. This follows strong support for such a registry after views were sought in a public consultation exercise conducted from September 13 to October 25. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 31 Oct 2011 07:26:09 GMTSINGAPORE: Singapore is seriously considering the option of importing electricity as an alternative source of energy supply. By the end of this year, the Energy Market Authority will commence a public consultation exercise on the regulatory framework to govern such imports to Singapore. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 31 Oct 2011 07:24:53 GMTIn the name of security, we do many unnecessary things and cause a lot of hassle to the ordinary people. This makes life stressful. Look at the excessive security in the airport. I do not mind the necessary security, but the excessive security does not make sense. I shall talk about some of these excessive measures. (Source: TKL's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 28 Oct 2011 02:28:36 GMTPARIS: Long-term, daily doses of aspirin led to a fall of some 60 percent in cases of colorectal cancer among people with an inherited risk of this disease, the journal The Lancet reported on Friday. The trial - considered to be broad in sample and long in duration - confirms evidence elsewhere that aspirin has a protective effect against cancer of the colon and rectum, it said. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 28 Oct 2011 02:27:23 GMTTHERE are national policies in place to help the needy but they can cover their needs only to a certain extent, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said yesterday. He said the economy is still "clouded" and that prices of necessities have risen, causing much hardship, especially for the socially disadvantaged. (Source: asiaone.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 28 Oct 2011 02:17:52 GMTSINGAPORE: Prices of private residential properties increased by 1.3 per cent in the third quarter of 2011, lower than the 2.0 per cent rise in the previous quarter. This was the eighth consecutive quarter in which the rate of increase in overall private housing prices had moderated, according to real estate statistics released on Friday by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 28 Oct 2011 02:15:06 GMTSINGAPORE: The iPhone crowds are back. Thousands turned up at the Suntec Convention Centre where SingTel held its launch of the iPhone 4S with the voice of Siri, the latest feature of the new iPhone which announced the release of the device at the stroke of midnight. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 28 Oct 2011 02:14:19 GMTSingapore may become one of the first nations in the world to see widespread adoption of near-field communication as a payment mode, if this report by Channel NewsAsia is accurate. Up to 20,000 retail points and taxis may be NFC-enabled by middle of 2012, the result of a S$40 million (US$31 million) investment by the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore and seven other companies. (Source: sgentrepreneurs.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 27 Oct 2011 01:42:53 GMTompanies who want to implement cloud computing can now receive a boost from the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) of Singapore. It comes in the form of tax deductions of up to 400 percent on up to S$400,000 (US$316,000) of qualifying expenditure incurred per year on each of six qualifying activities, which are: (Source sgentrepreneurs.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 27 Oct 2011 01:41:33 GMTWe heard about redundancies in Hong Kong some time ago, but news of layoffs in Singapore's financial sector have only hit the headlines recently. The Business Times reported that Bank of American Merrill Lynch (BoAML) and UBS have both fired i-bank staff. And other firms like HSBC have confirmed the restructuring of their Singapore business. Although Asian redundancies haven't been large-scale so far, staff are certainly getting the jitters. (Source efinancialcareers.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 25 Oct 2011 02:34:07 GMTSINGAPORE - The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) have partnered the Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan, Peranakan Association Singapore and Singapore Heritage Society to document graves that will be affected by the new road to be built at Bukit Brown cemetery. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 25 Oct 2011 01:12:24 GMTSINGAPORE - Inflation eased to 5.5 per cent last month - down from 5.7 per cent in August - as some economists expressed hope that inflation had gone past its peak. According to the Department of Statistics, the decline was mainly attributed to relatively lower costs of private road transport - due to the drop in Certificate of Entitlement (COE) premiums - clothing and footwear as well as cheaper holiday travel. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 25 Oct 2011 01:10:16 GMTThere are advantages for consumers in storing their medical records online. There are some concerns about privacy, but these concerns can be overcome when consumers understand how the system works. The best way to to give it a try and experience the benefits. (Source TKL's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 24 Oct 2011 02:01:54 GMTWe refer to Ms Goh Jen Loong's letter "More flexibility in retrofitting windows, please" (Oct 13), which asked about the need to retrofit the windows at her parents' flat after it was identified for the Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 24 Oct 2011 01:45:27 GMTThe Ministry of Manpower shares Madam Nur Hidayah Zulkifli's concerns raised in her letter "Prolonged work without rest should not be industry norm" (Oct 18) on the employment conditions at her brothers' workplaces. We have contacted Mdm Hidayah through Today, to understand her concerns and advise her on the avenues available should her brothers wish to lodge complaints about their employment-related concerns. They may email mom_lrwd@mom.gov.sg or call the MOM hotline at 6438-5122. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 24 Oct 2011 01:44:07 GMTI am seeing a few doctors - namely, endocrinologist, gastroentorologist, urologist and cardiologist - at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. Every time I go for an appointment, I am given a queue number, where it is printed on the slip that "your queue number will not be called in sequence" in spite of my appointment time. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 24 Oct 2011 01:42:40 GMTThe Land Transport Authority (LTA) has completed work to improve barrier-free accessibility at Mass Rapid Transit stations with the opening today of the lifts at Clarke Quay MRT Station. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 24 Oct 2011 01:40:12 GMTStandard of living and quality of life are often referred to in discussions about the economic and social well-being of countries and their residents, but what is the difference between the two? [Yahoo News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 24 Oct 2011 01:39:21 GMTSINGAPORE - Coming off a week of intense debate in a House with an unprecedented number of Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs), Foreign Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam acknowledged their role in finding improvements to government policies and programmes. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 24 Oct 2011 01:38:32 GMTBankers have offered to stretch the voluntary haircut on Greek debt to 40 per cent, while politicians demand the private sector agree to writedowns of at least 50 per cent, senior German banking source said yesterday. Politicians have asked private creditors to Greece to accept steeper writedowns on their holdings than the 21 per cent losses agreed last July. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 24 Oct 2011 01:36:14 GMTSINGAPORE - The Government plans to boost the number of Housing and Development Board (HDB) rental flats to 57,000 by 2015, but cautioned at the same time against incentivising the growth of these units. National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan said this yesterday, in response to a parliamentary question filed by Workers' Party Non-Constituency Member of Parliament Gerald Giam on the number of rental flats needed to meet the current high demand and when these flats will be built. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 21 Oct 2011 01:42:23 GMTSINGAPORE - The number of foreigners purchasing private homes here grew from 12 per cent to 16 per cent in the first half of this year, said National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan yesterday. Locals, nonetheless, still account for more than four-fifths of all private home purchases, said Mr Khaw, in response to a question by Mr Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC) on whether the minister would consider measures to restrict the number of private property units a foreigner can purchase. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 21 Oct 2011 01:41:15 GMTSAN FRANCISCO: Startup Lytro on Wednesday unveiled a camera that lets people adjust the focus on photos after they take them. Work that Ren Ng started in a lab while working on a PhD at Stanford University about eight years ago has led to the creation of what is billed as the first camera that captures the entire light field in a scene. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 20 Oct 2011 04:26:16 GMTSINGAPORE - The uncertain global economic environment is having an impact on hiring expectations, with a survey finding a drop in hiring expectations for the fourth quarter. According to recruiting firm Hudson's latest report released yesterday, 42 per cent of respondents across all sectors forecast headcount growth in the fourth quarter, compared with 56 per cent in the third quarter. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 20 Oct 2011 01:26:48 GMTSINGAPORE - There will be "many more" speeches on housing in Parliament over the next five years but Minister for National Development Khaw Boon Wan chose his first yesterday to lay out the priorities over the first two years. He reiterated a commitment to help first-time flat buyers earning less than S$10,000 a month get their first Housing and Development Board (HDB) home "as soon as possible", as well as address the housing needs of families with a household income of less than S$1,500 per month. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 20 Oct 2011 01:23:57 GMTSINGAPORE - The Republic has moved up two notches to rank seventh in a list of the world's most expensive office locations as of June, its highest ranking in two years. It is also the world's sixth most expensive warehouse location as of June, up from seventh position in December, according to two surveys by Colliers International released yesterday. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 20 Oct 2011 01:22:32 GMTThis article describes what has happened in America. It reflects the situation for many people in Singapore as well. When there is a widening gap in income, the high cost of living must squeeze those on stagnant wages. (Source: TKL's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 20 Oct 2011 01:18:17 GMTENSURING that Singaporeans in the workforce are able to maintain their competitive edge over foreigners and that their needs are well taken care of were hot topics raised by many Members of Parliament yesterday. One group of workers which received much attention in the debate comprises the professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs), often perceived as the "sandwiched" group whose needs have not been addressed sufficiently. (Source: asiaone.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 20 Oct 2011 01:14:26 GMTThe news story came across as incomplete as building half a house. While it detailed the key negative findings of the Auditor-General's report, nothing was said about officers being made accountable for the errors and penalised accordingly. This will strike many Singaporeans as "business as usual", or in Singapore political parlance, yet another example of "let's move on". (Source: yawning bread)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 19 Oct 2011 01:40:59 GMTSINGAPORE - The authorities are getting tougher on errant real estate agencies and agents. The industry's watchdog, the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), has formed an Inspection and Compliance Section - aimed at detecting infringements and unethical behaviour. CEA executive director Chionh Chye Khye said: "Staff will carry out inspection and compliance checks to ensure that estate agents have proper systems in place for management and supervision of sale persons, complaint handling, advertisement control and maintenance of proper records." (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 19 Oct 2011 01:37:40 GMTSINGAPORE - The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has fined public transport operator SMRT S$200,000 under the Rapid Transit Systems (RTS) Act for the lapses relating to the security breach at the Bishan MRT depot in August. The security lapse was similar in nature to an incident at Changi depot in May last year for which SMRT was fined S$50,000. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 19 Oct 2011 01:34:42 GMTSINGAPORE - Parkway Pantai, formed by a merger of Singapore's Parkway Holdings and Malaysia's Pantai Group, is looking to re-list through a public offering, the healthcare giant said yesterday. "There is no doubt that eventually there will be a re-listing. But we need to look at a number of factors, market conditions being one of them, as well as the right structures being in place," said Parkway Pantai chairman Mohammed Azlan Hashim. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 19 Oct 2011 01:32:56 GMTTemasek is sitting on a paper loss. Their hoarding of 430 million of Stanchart shares (18.2% estimated at £5.9 bn) started with the purchase of a 11.5 % stake from Khoo Teck Puat's estate in 2006. Then Stanchart shares were trading at £15.24, when the exchange rate was S$2.90 to £1. (Source: Singapore Notes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 19 Oct 2011 01:24:49 GMTThis article describes a problem faced by young people in many countries. They are paid a low salary, in spite of spending a lot of money to get a good education. This situation is caused by the failure of government around the world to set and enforce standards on worker's remuneration and their inability to provide a conducive environment for businesses to operate viably. Some businesses find it hard to survive, and cannot pay their workers well. Some businesses are highly profitable, but still exploit their workers. The government fail to do their job and prefer to leave matters to be sorted out by the market. (Source: TKL's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 18 Oct 2011 07:22:33 GMTTo illustrate her point on how a high gross domestic product is an inaccurate reflection of the population, Ms Sylvia Lim from the Workers' Party brought up the possibility of high housing prices being linked to dismal fertility rates. (Source: Asiaone.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 18 Oct 2011 07:14:44 GMTSINGAPORE: The authorities are getting tougher on errant estate agencies and agents. Industry watchdog, the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) has formed an Inspection and Compliance Section - aimed at detecting infringements and unethical behaviours. Executive director of CEA, Chionh Chye Khye said: "Staff will carry out inspection and compliance checks to ensure that estate agents have in place proper systems for management and supervision of salepersons, complaint handling, advertisement control and maintenance of proper records." (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 18 Oct 2011 07:12:55 GMTTHE opening of the Circle Line should be welcomed by many commuters, who would now look forward to visiting places that were previously less accessible. However, frequent train delays during peak hours have inconvenienced many commuters. To commute from Tampines, where I live, to my workplace at Kent Ridge, I used to take the train to Buona Vista and then transfer to Kent Ridge. Ever since I started using the Circle Line, the commute takes 30 minutes more. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 18 Oct 2011 07:04:29 GMTHONG KONG: Asian markets tumbled in early trade on Tuesday after ratings agency Moody's warned France it may lower its credit rating, while Germany cast doubt on a plan to fix the eurozone's debt crisis. Investors also reacted to the release of Chinese economic data which showed third-quarter gross domestic product growth slowed to 9.1 percent, and factory output growth fell slightly in the first nine months of the year. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 18 Oct 2011 07:02:09 GMTSINGAPORE: A Singaporean lost his car in Johor Bahru on Saturday while dining just 10 kilometres away from the Causeway. This comes just a day after Johor's police chief reassured visitors that his department is in "full control" of the crime situation in the Malaysian state. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 17 Oct 2011 02:37:03 GMTSINGAPORE - Less than 20 people turned up at Raffles Place yesterday for Singapore's version of the 'Occupy Wall Street' protests in New York. (Source: asiaone.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 17 Oct 2011 02:31:19 GMTUnless relative economic roles of the market and state are rebalanced, protests will get more severe (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 17 Oct 2011 02:20:23 GMTSINGAPORE: She grew up in Punggol but, today, Mdm Wee Sah Muay can no longer recognise the area where she had lived for more than 30 years until she moved out in 1975 to Hougang. The 78-year-old, who used to live at the 20th track near the old Punggol Zoo, told TODAY: "I have no impression of the new place. Everything looks different and the place where I used to stay is now an empty plot of land that the Government will use to build recreational facilities." (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 17 Oct 2011 02:07:25 GMTSINGAPORE - Early intervention efforts for individuals and families-at-risk will be broadened, said the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) as it seeks to build a cohesive, resilient Singapore that is supported by strong families and caring communities. This was among the list of things put forth by the Acting Minister for Community, Youth and Sports, Major-General (NS) Chan Chun Sing, in an addendum to President Tony Tan's address on Monday, in a move that social workers say will help better ensure that no one will fall through the cracks. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 14 Oct 2011 03:09:12 GMTSINGAPORE - The Government will continue to manage the pace of immigration to ensure that "immigrants are assimilable, of good quality and can be well integrated into Singapore society", said Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean yesterday. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 14 Oct 2011 03:05:13 GMTSingapore's trade confidence levels dive by Avelyn Ng 04:46 AM Oct 14, 2011 SINGAPORE - Confidence levels among Singapore's traders registered the steepest decline in a semi-annual index of trade companies, according to a report by HSBC. HSBC's Trade Confidence Index, which surveys the outlook of importers and exporters globally, fell to 105 in the Singapore sub-category, down 16 points from the previous report. A reading below 100 indicates a negative outlook, while one above 100 indicates a positive view. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 14 Oct 2011 02:58:03 GMTWhen a few maid agencies get together to agree on the salary for maids, the Competition Commission in Singapore came hard down on them for infringing the competition law. I wonder if action is being taken against the small businesses that cannot afford expensive lawyers to fight their case. I also wonder if the illegal practices are being following by big businesses that have a much bigger impact on consumers. (Source: TKL's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 14 Oct 2011 02:49:45 GMTLaw Minister K. Shanmugam has stressed that the Attorney- General's (A-G) role as the Government's chief legal adviser ends when he makes the final decision on prosecutions. The A-G works closely with the Government to ensure that its policies are legally defensible (Source: Asiaone.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 14 Oct 2011 02:45:13 GMTAdvertisments by licensed moneylenders promising "fast and easy cash", "instant approval" and "low interest rates" will be prohibited from Nov 1, as a result of new measures introduced by the Registry of Moneylenders and Pawnbrokers. (Source: Asiaone.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 14 Oct 2011 01:33:00 GMTLooking at the just recent parliament extract on what have been said by the ministry of manpower (see MOM's addendum to the President's address HERE), the points might just be summarized into a general statement: (Source: theonlinecitizen.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 13 Oct 2011 02:01:17 GMTSINGAPORE - Contrary to expectations, COE prices in the first bidding exercise in October were higher in only three categories. Car dealers had expected COE prices this round to rise sharply, after the Transport Ministry announced plans to cut the growth in Singapore's vehicle population. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 13 Oct 2011 01:56:54 GMTThe Land Transport Authority (LTA) will be reinstating the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) gantry along Bendemeer Road. This is because the Woodsville Interchange upgrading project has entered its final phase, said the LTA. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 13 Oct 2011 01:51:41 GMTSINGAPORE - With changes to the Residential Property Act (RPA) in January, Law Minister K Shanmugam expects the number of approved foreigner's purchase of landed property here to be cut by more than half. Speaking to reporters after visiting a black and white bungalow, Mr Shanmugam said approvals are given to applicants who are making a "very significant economic contribution" or if the family is rooted in Singapore with children doing national service. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 13 Oct 2011 01:48:52 GMTSINGAPORE - Besides building Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats ahead of demand to ease the housing crunch, the Ministry of National Development (MND) will be preparing for new towns at Tengah and Bidadari, Minister Khaw Boon Wan said yesterday. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 13 Oct 2011 01:47:30 GMTHere is a book review by an ex-Investment Banker. (Source: TKL's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 13 Oct 2011 01:43:12 GMTThis article shows how different countries take care of their elderly. We need to review the approach adopted in Singapore, which is complicated, convoluted and not effective. (Source: TKL's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 13 Oct 2011 01:28:59 GMTSINGAPORE: Observers said President Tony Tan's call to "prevent a new fault line from forming between local-born Singaporeans and recent immigrants" suggests Singapore's immigration policy has failed to gain a receptive audience among native Singaporeans. They said the key is in getting Singaporeans to buy-in, and that immigration issues must feature in policy planning exercises. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 12 Oct 2011 03:01:51 GMTWhen Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak announced several weeks ago that he planned to abolish his country's Internal Security Act (ISA) and replace it with more updated legislation, opposition parties in Singapore were quick to respond. (Source: Sgpolitics. net)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 12 Oct 2011 02:51:27 GMTSINGAPORE - Raffles Hospital has pioneered a technique which it says will benefit those with early-stage breast cancer and those with suspicious lumps in their breasts. Called the Radio-isotope Occult Lesion Localisation (ROLL), the technique uses a gamma probe to locate breast abnormalities after radioactive material is injected into the breast. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 12 Oct 2011 02:26:41 GMTSINGAPORE - Growth in the capital values of Grade A office buildings in Singapore fell 2.1 per cent to US$19,990 (S$25,700) per sq m in the third quarter of the year from the previous three months as investors became more cautious. According to a report by Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), corporate hiring sentiment and leasing demand weakened here amid market volatility and news of some companies shelving relocation and expansion plans. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 12 Oct 2011 02:22:22 GMTSINGAPORE: From October 12, potential flat buyers will be able to enquire about the transacted resale prices within a 500m radius of the Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat they are interested in. By specifying the HDB block or Design, Build and Sell Scheme flat on the HDB website, a buyer will be given a summary table on the range of transacted resale prices by flat type within a 500m radius, said the HDB in a statement on Tuesday. This will also include the range of floor areas and number of resale transactions. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 12 Oct 2011 02:17:41 GMTSTOCKHOLM: Have a sweet tooth? It could protect you from a stroke, according to a large Swedish study published on Tuesday on women chocolate-lovers. "We followed 33,000 women over the course of 10 years, and we found that those who ate most chocolate had a much lower risk - 20 percent lower - of suffering a stroke," said Susanna Larsson, one of three researchers at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm who carried out the study. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 12 Oct 2011 02:15:03 GMT(Reuters) - Three years after the collapse of Lehman Brothers touched off a tidal wave of bankruptcy filings, corporate failures may be about to pick up again, with some big-name companies among those struggling for survival. Companies in a range of businesses, including hair salons, restaurants, renewable energy, and the paper industry, have tumbled into Chapter 11 in the past few months. (Source: Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 11 Oct 2011 01:45:23 GMTNEW YORK - Apple says first-day pre-orders of the iPhone 4S topped 1 million, breaking the record set by last year's model. Apple and various phone companies in the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and Britain started taking orders for the phone last Friday. It hits stores this Friday. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 11 Oct 2011 01:39:03 GMTTOKYO: Japan's current account surplus shrank by 64.3 per cent from a year earlier in August, the sixth consecutive decline in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, government data showed on Tuesday. The surplus in the current account, the broadest measure of Japan's trade with the rest of the world, stood at 407.5 billion yen ($5.3 billion) in August before seasonal adjustment, finance ministry data showed. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 11 Oct 2011 01:36:09 GMTReuters) - President Barack Obama could create millions of jobs by attracting more foreign capital to the United States, helping entrepreneurs and being more aggressive in energy, business leaders said on Monday. In a new report, the chief executives of GE, Intel, Boeing and other companies also backed White House proposals to fix infrastructure like airports, railways and electricity grids and to expand broadband Internet networks as a way to boost hiring and speed up flagging growth. (Source: Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 11 Oct 2011 01:30:48 GMTA forum organised by the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) where two former Internal Security Act (ISA) detainees spoke via teleconference is being investigated by the police. According to local media, the police is investigating whether the law has been breached by the SDP. [Yahoo News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 10 Oct 2011 03:22:17 GMT(Reuters) - Elevated audit fees can be a red flag of problems to come for a company, say three recent academic studies that together warn about increased chances of fraud, stock price declines or financial restatements. (Source: Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 10 Oct 2011 01:30:11 GMTSINGAPORE: A non-government organisation has criticised the Competition Commission of Singapore's (CCS) decision to fine 16 employment agencies for price fixing. In a letter to the media on Saturday, Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics (HOME) executive director Jolovan Wham argued that the competition watchdog's decision is "driven primarily by what is good for employers" (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 10 Oct 2011 01:28:20 GMT(Reuters) - When China announced a nearly $600 billion package to ward off the 2008 global financial crisis, city planners across the country happily embarked on a frenzy of infrastructure projects, some of them of arguable need. (Source: Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 10 Oct 2011 01:14:18 GMT(Reuters) - The leaders of Germany and France have promised to unveil new measures to solve the euro zone's debt crisis by the end of the month, as international pressure builds for bold steps from Europe to avert an economic backlash of global proportions. (Source: Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 10 Oct 2011 01:11:16 GMTThe third act is happening in China. In the three years since the first act started, credit in China has mushroomed from 100% of gross domestic product (GDP) to 200%, at a time when GDP itself has been growing at a fast lick. Property prices as a ratio to incomes are more than 22 in many of the coastal regions, a bubble far, far more precipitous than that which engulfed the US.....[Business Day]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 08 Oct 2011 08:39:18 GMTToday, the govt uses the low fertility as a justification for the large foreign influx. The large foreign influx results in increased competition for jobs and housing as well as rise in structural unemployment. It puts Singaporeans in a vicious cycle of lower fertility and increased foreign influx. [Lucky Tan]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 08 Oct 2011 08:18:42 GMTWhat happens to one party authoritarian rule when the economy no longer does well? We only have to look at Indonesia, S. Korea and Thailand to know the answer. Even in Japan where the people are culturally reluctant to go for change. They eventually threw out the LDP - the party that engineered its economic miracle. It is hard for a one party system because one-party rule concentrates the power and control in a small number of people and when serious problems occur these people have to shoulder the blame, lose credibility and the masses quickly reject their leadership. [Lucky Tan]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 08 Oct 2011 08:15:46 GMTAt a dialogue on Friday with 4,000 ethnic Chinese entrepreneurs, Lee said, "I think it's a mistake. They will learn English in school anyway and they should keep up their Mandarin at home so that the child will naturally speak Mandarin and find it easy in school."...[Yahoo News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 08 Oct 2011 07:50:08 GMTThere is a type of marketing tactic that I have found troubling, as it incurs expensive auto-roaming charges. While I normally do not answer calls from numbers not in my contact list when I am overseas, a few months ago, one particular number kept calling over a short period of time, and I worried that there was an emergency at home. (Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 07 Oct 2011 01:55:44 GMT(Reuters) - Stocks rose for a third day in a row on Thursday as developing euro zone plans to backstop European banks gave investors hope the threat of a financial crisis was waning. (Source: Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 07 Oct 2011 01:48:27 GMTSINGAPORE: The National University of Singapore (NUS) - Singapore's top-ranked university - has slipped six places in the latest ranking of 400 universities released by the London-based Times Higher Education (THE). NUS now ranks 40th on the list, while Nanyang Technological University (NTU) climbed five places to reach 169th place this year. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 07 Oct 2011 01:34:55 GMTSINGAPORE: The casinos are not the "biggest challenge" when it comes to dealing with problem gambling here, said Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Chan Chun Sing. "You have Internet gambling ... It's not just about casinos. If you want to tackle the gambling issue, you have to look holistically across all the factors that are driving this," Mr Chan said. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 07 Oct 2011 01:32:00 GMTPresident Obama has criticized the bad practices of the banks on deceptive practices and hidden fees. He faced an uphill battle to get the reforms to pass through the US Congress due to the strong lobby of the large banks. I hope that he will get the strong support of the American people (Source: TKL Blogspot)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 07 Oct 2011 01:23:11 GMTJohnny Chan - Investment bank chief experiences the life of the elderly poor Johnny Chan was born to an industrialist family, and is known as one of the 'wealthy third generation'. After graduating overseas, Johnny has worked in multinational investment banks. He describes the investment amounts he has handled as 'astonishing'.....In this episode, Johnny will live with poor elderly people in a shabby cage house; work as a street hawker in a dawn market; scavenge on the street; and work in an undesirable cleaning job. He will reflect on how the elderly can live the rest of their lives with dignity. [rthk.hk]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 06 Oct 2011 14:30:23 GMTAs the stock market has fallen y 20%, it is a good time to pick up some shares that pays high dividends for the long term. Here is a list of the top 20 blue chips given by my stockbroker. (Source: TKL Blogspot)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 06 Oct 2011 02:46:26 GMTReuters) - Passionate, prickly, and deemed irreplaceable by many Apple fans and investors, Steve Jobs made a life defying conventions and expectations. (Sources: Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 06 Oct 2011 02:42:14 GMTNEW YORK: Thousands of anti-corporate demonstrators backed for the first time in large numbers by trade unions poured into New York's financial district Wednesday, raising the stakes in a more than two-weeks long street revolt. More than 5,000 people crammed into Foley Square in lower Manhattan, where the city's courts and government buildings are located, before marching toward Wall Street. Union officials estimated the number at 8,000 to 12,000 and it was clearly the biggest protest yet for the fledgling movement. (Sources: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 06 Oct 2011 02:28:24 GMTI have received a report that some people have paid several thousand dollars to attend a forex trading course on the expectation that they can learn some trading techniques to make money. Most of these people earn up losing money on the trading activities. And they are too shy to admit that they have made a big mistake in entering into this line. (Source: TKL Blogspot)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 05 Oct 2011 02:01:05 GMTLONDON - Manchester United have lost their status as the most valuable team brand in world sport after being overtaken in the Forbes Fab 40 by the New York Yankees. United were named in July by the respected American business magazine Forbes as the world's richest sports team with a calculated wealth of £1.65 billion (S$3.34 billion). However, they slipped to second place in the brand ranking, with the Yankees' value rated at £221 million compared to United's estimated brand worth of £175 million. (Sources: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 05 Oct 2011 01:53:43 GMTPresidential candidate Tan Cheng Bock was the biggest spender over the nine days of campaigning during the Presidential Election in August. Of the $600,000 budget each of the four candidates had, Tan spent $585,045.03 on his campaign. [Yahoo News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 05 Oct 2011 01:44:13 GMTApple fans disappointed despite iPhone 4S' technological advances (Sources: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 05 Oct 2011 01:41:50 GMTBRUSSELS: EU nations are building a "co-ordinated" plan to recapitalise their banks to avoid contagion from the debt crisis which has forced the dismantling of Franco-Belgian bank Dexia, the European Commission said Tuesday. (Sources CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 05 Oct 2011 01:35:56 GMTThe PPF scheme aims to offer protection to policyholders in the event of the insurer failing. The protection is 100% subjected to caps. For individual life and voluntary group life policies (with the exception of annuities), the cap is S$500,000 for the aggregated guaranteed sum assured and S$100,000 for aggregated guaranteed surrender value per life assured per insurer. My comments: (Source: the finance.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 04 Oct 2011 02:14:51 GMTNEW YORK: The euro sank below the $1.32 level on Monday as confidence in European growth and progress on the Greek crisis sagged. At 2100 the euro was at its lowest level since January, $1.3178, compared to $1.3390 on late Friday. (Source: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 04 Oct 2011 02:11:02 GMT(Reuters) - The Senate on Monday took aim at one of China's core economic policies, voting to move forward with a bill designed to press Beijing to let its currency rise in value in the hope of creating U.S. jobs. (Source: Retuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 04 Oct 2011 02:05:55 GMTEXEMPTING outstanding sportsmen from national service is not feasible as it makes a "mockery" of the universal conscription system, said Major-General (NS) Chan Chun Sing, Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports, yesterday. (Source: Asiaone.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 04 Oct 2011 02:01:17 GMTSome economists are suggesting a big debt relief to write off some consumer debts - as a means of jump starting the US economy. This seems to be a desperate measure. Allow debtors to reduce their debt - so they can feel encourage to spend again. [CNBC]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 03 Oct 2011 09:05:06 GMTThe government is reviewing its policies on Central Provident Fund (CPF) contribution rates to make sure that older workers remain employable, said Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam. "We have to make sure that the older workers are not disadvantaged in the job market," Tharman said in an interview with Lianhe Zaobao published on Sunday. [Yahoo News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 03 Oct 2011 07:00:45 GMTReaching 55. Congratulations! You are now senior citizen in Singapore. You have special privilege. The National Bank of Singapore upon you reaching 55 will automatically setup a special saving account for you and let you enjoy the best interest rate at 2.5% in Singapore. You are entitled to one withdrawal per year for any amount at any time between your two birthday. I am pretty sure that your younger colleagues, friends and relative will be jealous of your super interest rate in the current market condition. (Sources: thefinance.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 03 Oct 2011 03:52:25 GMTSINGAPORE - As it investigates the Circle Line disruption that occurred on Sept 20 at Dakota MRT Station, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) will also be looking at reducing technical faults for the island's rail network. (Sources: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 03 Oct 2011 02:52:39 GMT(Reuters) - More than three years after the financial crisis struck, the economy remains stuck in a consumer debt trap. It's a situation that could take years to correct itself. That's why some economists are calling for a radical step: massive debt relief. (Sources: Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 03 Oct 2011 02:20:37 GMTSingapore: Flash estimates on property prices show that buyers are willing to pay more for HDB resale flats while those purchasing private property are showing caution. HDB's flash estimate of the 3rd Quarter 2011 Resale Price Index (RPI) climbed 3.8 per cent in the third quarter compared to the 3.1 per cent rise seen in the second quarter.(Sources: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 03 Oct 2011 02:15:10 GMTI thought I should share some information which I have taken from CBRE's report in Q2 2011 as I have recently received questions from readers on REITs which derive income from office space rentals in Singapore. For office space, it is expected that "vacancy levels rises (are) inevitable in the next 6 to 12 months. This is the result of increased levels of new supply coming on-stream in addition to second-hand space returning to the market. (Source: thefinance.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 03 Oct 2011 02:09:27 GMTPoliticians should tell the truth and not mislead the public by controlling the flow of information. Article by the dean of LKY school.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 02 Oct 2011 23:43:29 GMTRaffles Quay Asset Management (RQAM) marketing director Thomas Tan said that currently, many Indonesians were purchasing houses for their children. "A house is an important facility when Indonesian parents want to send their children to Singapore to pursue higher education," he said. [The Jakarta Post]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 02 Oct 2011 12:26:26 GMTJust read Balaji's on 'Singaporeans waiting for deep changes from PAP' .....To me, he is one of the most astute observer of our socio-political scene. However he surprised me, and I quote him on this. [Blogging For Myself]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 02 Oct 2011 12:21:35 GMTSingapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong marked his 100 days as the head of a new government last month after a breathtaking general election.....Post-election, all eyes were on Lee: What will he say, how will he react and what kind of signal will he send to Singaporeans, especially the 40 per cent of voters who had shown their displeasure with the ruling class at the ballot box? [AsiaOne News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 02 Oct 2011 12:19:53 GMTI refer to the latest issue of the UBS Price and Earnings report, which is a study of purchasing power around the world. Out of 73 cities ranked, Singapore comes in at 10, 42 and 47, for Price Level, Wage Levels and Domestic Purchasing Power, respectively. Triple whammy? What this may mean is that Singaporeans may in a sense, be squeezed in a triple whammy - high cost of living, low wages and low purchasing power. [Leong Sze Hian]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 02 Oct 2011 12:14:33 GMTIn the face of rapid social and political changes, the government plans to shift its education system more towards building character and values and understanding local politics.....[The Star - Seah Chiang Nee]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 02 Oct 2011 12:12:12 GMTLee Kuan Yew, Singapore's storied first prime minister, gave his countrymen two things that elude most developing nations: stability and prosperity. Now, a new generation of Singaporeans with little recollection of Lee's crusade against poverty and violence wants democracy as well. [Foreign Affairs ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 30 Sep 2011 15:36:33 GMTDear Lifehacker, For the amount of work I do, I feel very underpaid. At work, there's almost a culture of having a heavy workload is a very good thing, (Source: Lifehacker.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 30 Sep 2011 03:14:08 GMTWASHINGTON: People around the world are happiest in the morning, according to a US study on Thursday that analyzed hundreds of millions of messages on the microblogging site Twitter. (Sources: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 30 Sep 2011 02:55:17 GMTSINGAPORE: Putting employees first and adopting unconventional leadership styles were the main attributes that helped the winners of the Asian Human Capital Awards this year. Focusing on making employees happy first before customers is a policy India-based IT services provider HCL Technologies believes in. Key to that is listening to them and empowering them to make decisions. (Sources: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 30 Sep 2011 02:44:52 GMTMiddle-aged men are twice as likely as women to end up with a cancer diagnosis after a colonoscopy, according to an Austrian study that challenges screening guidelines. Currently, people who face an average risk of colon cancer start screening at the age of 50, regardless of gender.(Source: TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 30 Sep 2011 02:26:30 GMTWhen it comes to investing, there is no shortage of theories on what makes the markets tick or what a particular market move means. The two largest factions on Wall Street are split along theoretical lines into adherents to an efficient market theory and those who believe the market can be beat. [Yahoo Finance]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 29 Sep 2011 15:00:54 GMTSINGAPORE - The Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS) has issued a warning against a new computer malware dubbed, SpyEye, that targets local Internet banking applications. It says there have been a few such cases. It said whenever the customer tries to access the bank's Internet banking application from an infected computer, the malware attempts to create a fraudulent third party beneficiary addition and funds transfer. (Source TODAYonline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 29 Sep 2011 09:15:51 GMTHELSINKI - The world's largest mobile phone maker Nokia said on Thursday it planned to cut 3,500 jobs in Romania, Germany and the United States by the end of 2012. (Source: CNA/Business)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 29 Sep 2011 09:04:25 GMTAt risk of simplification, this static thinking about our social welfare can be roughly summed up in a few statements: Singapore is not a welfare state and should never be, because the Western welfare state is doomed to fail and social welfare is fundamentally un-Asian. (Source: Tan Kin Lian's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 29 Sep 2011 09:00:09 GMTWASHINGTON: An herbal supplement that is widely sold in the United States and Europe to relieve urinary symptoms in men with an enlarged prostate has no benefit over a placebo, a US study said on Tuesday. The global market for saw palmetto extract is about $700 million a year, but a randomised trial at 11 sites in North America showed that even triple doses of the over-the-counter drug neither worked nor harmed the patients.(Sources: CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 03:13:28 GMT(Reuters) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel may fall short of a majority in her own coalition for a crucial reform of the euro zone rescue fund meant to stop a sovereign debt crisis spreading, in what would be a severe blow to her authority, a test vote showed. (Source: Reuters By Andreas Rinke and Ingrid Melander)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 02:55:22 GMTSINGAPORE - Former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew said he was "first time lucky" in taking Singapore to where it is today. But he stressed that it is the job of the younger generation to steer the country forward. (Source: Asiaone News)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 02:50:12 GMTMany people find it difficult to choose among the four options given by CPF Life. (Source: Tan Kin Lian's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 02:29:06 GMTSep 5, 2011 Queries to Singapore Immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) - In view of Dr Yaacoob's own revelation that his children will hold dual citizenship up till 18 years old by virtue of the fact that his wife is an American citizen, I have sent in the following que...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 00:35:49 GMTSingapore rejects UN calls for independent election body During the UPR in May 2011, Singapore accepted 52 recommendations, rejected 21, and deferred 39 for further consideration.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 00:30:49 GMTThe New Obscene Normality - Who needs Justice and Equality in Singapore? by Huang Z'ming Singaporeans pay more attention to issues contravening social justice and equality rather than the impact of ISAhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 00:29:11 GMTTan Jee Say's economic plan is not a direct way of improving entrepreneurship given the fact that there are direct macroeconomics tools plus the need to address issues that discourage young Singaporeans from striking out on their own. [Kelvin Teohttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 00:27:58 GMTAmong developing countries, Singapore and USA have the highest income inequality. The only time during the last 100 years when the income inequality is as high as it is today was in 1929. The global economic system fell apart after the stock market collapsed in Oct 1929.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 00:25:58 GMTMHA statement tells why we have to abolish the Internal Security Act.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 28 Sep 2011 00:23:09 GMTWhile the ruling People's Action Party saw its vote share dip in the May General Election, former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew said on Tuesday he does not think a more populist form of government would need to emerge. [Yahoo News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 27 Sep 2011 16:04:40 GMTShe was body slammed against the doors of a SBS bus by a Caucasian male who later told the police that she was talking too loudly on the phone and making a lot of noise. All the working mother did was to make a call to her daughter, informing the kid that mom will be home late because of the traffic situation.....[Singapore Notes]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 27 Sep 2011 13:40:44 GMTFor parents with children that are 12 year old this must be a period of anxiety as the PSLE starts this week.....When I took the PLSE many years ago, students only had pass/fail results. There was no score..... [Lucky Tan]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 27 Sep 2011 13:36:37 GMT(Reuters) - Two top Federal Reserve officials on Monday defended the central bank's most recent effort to boost growth, and one suggested further steps may be justified. (Sources: Reuters By Mark Felsenthal)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 27 Sep 2011 02:53:49 GMTNEW YORK: Oil prices closed little changed on Monday after a day of see-saw trade Monday as markets remained on edge over the eurozone crisis. New York's main contract, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for November delivery gained 39 cents to $80.24. (Sources: CNA/Business)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 27 Sep 2011 02:47:18 GMTSINGAPORE - Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Singapore rose to a pre-crisis high this year, with the bulk of Singaporean acquisitions in the United States and China. (Sources: TODAYonline/Business)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 27 Sep 2011 02:40:59 GMTAfter nearly half a century of people constrained from speaking out, the arrival of the social media has changed the political landscape. More conflicts, once private, are moving into the public domain. They are not only between people and government, but between people and people. [Seah Chiang Nee]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 26 Sep 2011 10:02:00 GMTNEW YORK - People who eat fish a few times each week are slightly less likely to suffer a stroke than those who only eat a little or none at all, according to an international analysis. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish may lower stroke risk through their positive effects on blood pressure and cholesterol, wrote Dr Susanna Larsson and Dr Nicola Orsini of Sweden's Karolinska Institutet in the journal Stroke. (Source TODAYonline by Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 26 Sep 2011 08:50:22 GMTPresidential candidate, Tan Jee Say, plans to build up a coalition of forces, reaching out to those dissatisfied with the ruling party. He said this at his thank you lunch, this afternoon, for about 200 of his volunteers at Big Splash in East Coast Parkway. He did not give details as to which party he intends to join. [ TODAY ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 26 Sep 2011 06:09:04 GMT(Reuters) - Markets will give their verdict on Monday on whether they think Swiss bank UBS's new caretaker chief executive has the mettle to manage the overhaul of its investment bank after Oswald Gruebel quit over the $2.3 billion rogue trading scandal. (Source Reuters By Catherine Bosley)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 26 Sep 2011 04:33:22 GMTWASHINGTON - European policymakers, stung by criticism for failing to stem the euro zone debt crisis, began working on new ways to stop fallout from Greece's near-bankruptcy from inflicting more damage on the world economy. After a weekend of being told by the United States, China and other countries that they must get more aggressive in their crisis response, European officials meeting in the US capital focused on ways to beef up their existing ?440-billion (S$773-billion) rescue fund. (Sources: TODAYonline(Business)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 26 Sep 2011 04:26:34 GMTFor Mr Joel Foo, offering to look after Yuki, an unwanted three-year-old husky, not only helped him overcome his childhood fear of dogs, but also saw him becoming the owner of not one, but three dogs. The 44-year-old entrepreneur said yesterday: "I actually hated dogs, but I offered to look after Yuki while her previous owner tried to find someone to adopt her. (In the end,) I adopted her because we got along very well."(AsiaOne News-By Shaun Tan my paper)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 26 Sep 2011 03:37:17 GMTIt is back to basics again .....http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 23 Sep 2011 14:16:41 GMTATHENS - Moody's ratings agency downgraded eight Greek banks by two notches Friday due to their exposure to Greek government bonds and the deteriorating economic situation in the debt-ridden country, whose government has struggled to meet the terms of an international bailout. Moody's Investors Service downgraded National Bank of Greece, EFG Eurobank Ergasias, Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, Agricultural Bank of Greece and Attica Bank to CAA2 from B3. It also downgraded Emporiki Bank of Greece and General Bank of Greece to B3 from B1. The agency said the outlook for all the banks' long-term deposit and debt ratings was negative. (Source TODAYonline/Business)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 23 Sep 2011 09:36:48 GMTWe're on the verge of another recession. You will be forgiven if you didn't know we had recovered from the last one; it sure didn't feel like it. This next recession is likely to be even more global than the one that began in 2007 because this time, China's economy is also slowing down. It has to. It has been overheated lately. (Source: Yawningbread.wordpress)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 23 Sep 2011 07:22:18 GMTThe results of the last General Election (GE), in which an Opposition party defeated the ruling party in a Group Representation Constituency, was bound to happen, former Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew said at the close of the Singapore Global Dialogue yesterday. [ TODAY ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 23 Sep 2011 05:32:56 GMTReuters) - Europe's debt crisis looks more intractable than ever. The Federal Reserve appears to be shooting blanks when it comes to firing up the U.S. economy. (Source Reuters By Steven C. Johnson)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 23 Sep 2011 02:46:30 GMTHe also drew similarities between his party and the PAP, saying, "The trick for any party long in office is to recognise that with power comes great responsibility." In addition, it must "find ways to give away more power to the people, rather than take more power into itself". - Lord Mandelson [Yahoo News] [ Editor's Note - Great Article; Post GE 2011 ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 22 Sep 2011 18:00:14 GMTPay gap in Singaporehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 22 Sep 2011 15:09:48 GMTAnalysts warn that Singapore's interest rates will likely climb in March next year, according to a Channel NewsAsia (CNA) report. This means that loans, which currently range from one to 1.2 percent, will likely increase by as much as 0.3 percentage points by early next year. This comes even if the Singapore interbank offered rate (Sibor) component of mortgage loans remains low. [ Yahoo]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 22 Sep 2011 12:12:21 GMTSYDNEY : The commodities-linked Australian dollar Thursday slumped below parity with the greenback for only the third time since October after the US Federal Reserve's new measures to support its economy....(Source: CNA_Business Times)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 22 Sep 2011 06:17:30 GMTIndustry experts say that by next year, there will be 1.2 billion mobile workers worldwide. They also report that by 2013, 75 per cent of all United States workers will be mobile. Another survey reveals that 36 per cent of mobile phone owners have either lost a phone or had one stolen. These facts suggest that in the near future, nearly 25 per cent of all workers will have lost a mobile device that could provide access to confidential information....(Source TODAYonline by Sivadas Ramadas)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 21 Sep 2011 03:55:44 GMTRe-visiting my blog posting on 26 Aug 2010, just before PM Lee announced the revision of the income ceiling for purchase of HDB BTO & ECs. [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 20 Sep 2011 13:28:04 GMTRevisiting The Property Bubble & Investment Trap Part I - What's next with the MND Minister, with the New Parliament Opening Soon? [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 19 Sep 2011 14:29:51 GMT[Dr Poh Soo Kai] ...was detained under ISA for a total of 17 years.. arrested on 2 February 1963 (Operation Cold Store) together with more than 150 others.. rearrested in June 1976. Below is his speech delivered at Tan Jing Quee's Memorial Service on 27 August 2011 in KL..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 09:04:32 GMTMICA said Friday it stands by the law that regulates newspapers here. The Newspaper and Printing Presses Act ensures "the media operating in S'pore play a responsible role, and that publishers are accountable for the content they publish," it was reported as saying by The Straits Times.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 04:45:32 GMTIf foreigners are allowed to keep pouring into the country, say they formed 80% of the population, it will mean the original S'poreans will be left with 20% share of the nation's wealth. [So] If the whole island can be sold off as a going concern, and every citizen gets an equal share of the sales proceed, it could be a nice way out (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 04:36:37 GMT[Hysteria, scaremongering and a desperate bid to keep a twitching EU corpse alive] The world economic situation has, according to IMF boss Christine Lagarde, entered a "dangerous phase" (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 02:12:02 GMTAlthough unemployment rates are low, it must be recognised that most households today are dual income. This could mask real affordability, as any decline or loss of income of either partner could cause a significant impact to a family servicing a home loan (Alvin Lee is head of secured lending at StanChart Bank - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:57:58 GMTWe thank Mr Conrad Raj for his comments in "The inexplicable rise in development charges". He asked why the Govt had revised the development charge upward.. (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:51:54 GMTWe refer to the letter "When are offenders named after conviction?" If there is no order prohibiting such a disclosure, it is entirely up to the media whether to publish details relating to the identity of the accused (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:48:04 GMTThe 'terrorism expert' whom CNA quotes as saying that abolishing ISA is 'foolish' has impressive credentials... some of which we found out to be non-existent.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:42:37 GMTSo this govt isn't going to relook our version of ISA. They have conveniently ignored how the new President had described it.. They can't blame the more thoughtful among us to be politically cynical. I rather be a cynic than be an imbecile (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:38:52 GMTFor all the negative arguments against enforcing ISA in S'pore, the Act has served us very well and will continue to be useful in future. There are adequate safeguards to prevent abuse in applying ISA here. Hence, we should not - and I have every confidence the Govt will not - copy the planned route of our neighbour across the Causeway.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:33:31 GMTPM Lee was decisive enough to review ministerial salaries. A similar review of ISA would place the onus on certain Opposition parties to offer more constructive policy alternatives instead of recycling old rhetoric to score points (Tan Si An - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:29:23 GMTI read with interest the report on historic changes proposed by PM Najib ["M'sian PM to scrap ISA"]. Now that we are approaching 50 years of independence - in 2015 - it is high time we reviewed the laws and modified or discarded them, as appropriate (Mano Sabnani - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:15:03 GMT[This article was first published by the Straits Times on 3 February 1991] New Asia Republichttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:08:41 GMTIn S'pore, national leaders like Mr Chia Thye Poh, Dr Lim Hock Siew and Mr Said Zahari were cruelly snatched from their families and locked up without being given a chance to defend themselves in a court of law. Mr Chia was imprisoned for 23 years, Dr Lim 20, and Mr Said 17 years (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 01:03:23 GMTMalaysia abandons ISA; Singapore's reactionshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 00:49:16 GMT[Financial Markets : The Vandal's Crown... and the road ahead.. ] What will improve the lives of S'poreans are reforms to our healthcare, transport, housing and medical care... and we don't need to keep GDP growing at its fastest to do that (This article contains some amount of financial jargon, and is targeted at those with more than a passing interest in the financial markets)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 00:31:53 GMTWhy even ask (Prof) Eugene Tan for a comment when he wasn't even there at the briefing? Just so that he could say, "It's important that we keep the number of cynical S'poreans to the political process to a minimum, simply because..." ?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 00:28:51 GMTThis guy [MP for Sembawang GRC, Vikram Nair] doesn't understand cause and effect (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 00:24:53 GMTA moment of folly...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 00:20:49 GMTI was saddened by Mr Lee Kuan Yew's resigned acceptance of the likely predominance of American English in S'pore. I implore Education Minister Heng Swee Keat not to confuse further the already struggling English language speaker. Taking on the American accent is not inevitable, and we should resist it (Jessica Seet - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 17 Sep 2011 00:08:31 GMTFormer Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew shared his difficulties in mastering Mandarin, his mother tongue. He said.. (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 23:58:39 GMTAWARE is right to urge more pro-birth policies but not at the expense of a distorted perception of a credible leader (Marvin Kai - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 23:52:51 GMTMy understanding of Mr Lee Kuan Yew's remarks to Ms Joan Sim is different from that of AWARE. What I think he means is that raising children is fulfilling, and one should experience it to appreciate its meaning (Yen Lin Tham - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 23:48:08 GMT[Slowing the paper chase] Future university planning would unlikely be a numbers game alone, but respond to the needs of the economy. Many of the newly created jobs today are in services which do not require formal higher education.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 23:27:56 GMTOmigosh, this important message left by a reader nearly ended up as spam [thanks, anon @September 16, 2011 9:11 AM] Following are highlights which eerily resemble, almost to a word, the poison we have been fed via msm.. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 23:20:07 GMT[Time to remove COE for taxis] If we remove the COE altogether for taxis, fares may drop and this could encourage more car owners to give up driving.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 23:16:24 GMT10 Steps To Prevent the Next Bank Crisishttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 23:12:17 GMTLehman Bros collapsed 3 years ago on Sep 15, 2008, and nearly brought the entire financial system down with it. But Lehman wasn't the first casualty of the financial crisis. 6 months earlier, Bear Stearns gave the world a preview of what was to happen to Lehman. So to understand what took down Lehman, you first have to understand what brought down the Bear (vimeo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 23:04:19 GMTThe trader arrested on suspicion of a staggering US$2 billion fraud at UBS is believed to have blown the whistle on himself about the unauthorised deals (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 22:55:04 GMT[ISA relevant to S'pore, crucial for national security: MHA] ..the President can veto govt's decision.. no one has ever been detained only for their political beliefs. Dr Rohan Gunaratna, from the International Centre for Political Violence and Research, said it is "foolish" of Malaysia to abolish ISA.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 11:47:33 GMT"Fabrications about the PAP" was not created by members of the ruling party but ordinary citizens with moderate views, reported The Straits Times (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 05:13:50 GMTFew investment legends have weathered more than Richard Russell. Born in the Great Depression, Russell knows what it's like to live in hard times. And in this new normal he has some survival tips. The following are courtesy of Russell's Dow Theory Letters.. (pragcap)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 05:00:59 GMTTaichi attracts foreigners in S Chinahttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 04:49:24 GMTEPL football champions Manchester United have received permission from SGX for a planned US$1 billion listing, a source briefed on the deal told Reuters on Friday.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 04:43:05 GMTToday we have a front page news that a trader of UBS lost $2.48b for betting and hedging on behalf of the bank. The world is getting to be a stranger place by the day. What is the point of [Central Banks] trying to help fire starters [rogue bankers] to put out fires [colossal losses]? MySingaporeNewshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 02:34:05 GMTNot all REITs are created equal .. Defensive as long as there is no credit crunch .. Parentage matters (Tan Chin Keong is an analyst at UBS Wealth Management Research - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 02:12:31 GMTAs more supply enters the market, either as completed properties or when they become available for sale off the plan, the risks levels will rise with the increased supply (Colin Tan is head of Research and Consultancy at Chesterton Suntec Int'l)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 02:08:51 GMTWHILE SPCA applauds the extensive coverage, things are not as rosy as the Saturday Special feature implies ["It's a better dog's life now..."] The feature mentioned repeatedly that SPCA euthanised animals, which reflects a bias compounded by the fact that the writers did not seek our comments (Corinne Fong, Executive Director - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 01:29:34 GMT[Photos] MPs Walkabout @ 538 Bedok North St 3 (Kaki Bukit) on 11 Sep 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 01:22:14 GMTIt's not just dictators. Govts around the world, many of them popularly elected, have tried for years to control the Internet and social media (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 01:10:55 GMT[The Finnish Education Model - Should Singapore emulate it?] After my recent blog post on Social Mobility where I touched on the Finnish education system, I received an email from a S'porean living and working in Finland. I invited him to share with us a comparison of the S'pore and Finnish education system from the perspective of one who has experienced both systems first-hand..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 01:05:05 GMTMoS for Education Lawrence Wong said Thursday that care must be taken in expanding the university sector because there are many factors to consider, and any decision will have "broad implications" for society (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:57:55 GMTNTU thanks Ms Kris Sim for her letter ['Concerned by NTU's plunge in life-science ranking']. With our existing strengths in human capital, funding and infrastructure, along with the developments described above, the future of life science at NTU is bright (Prof Mark Featherstone - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:48:58 GMT[English instruction being strengthened] We thank Mr Victor Sng for his comments and suggestions in "Can SGEM help teachers with sub-par English?", on the teaching and learning of English language in our schools (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:41:18 GMT[Make no mistake, these transformations are real] We must give credit where it is due, and due credit must go to Najib's leadership for these bold, progressive and enlightened measures. We cannot always depend on good men not to misuse bad laws. It is far better that bad laws be removed so that the temptation to use them is discarded as well.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:37:40 GMTNTUC Income should reconsider its scare tactics behind its marketing campaign to push the VivoCare and Enhanced IncomeShield policies (Denis Distant - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:31:36 GMT[Providing Greater Short-Term Financial Assistance To The Elderly And Needy] It's Not About Welfarism, But About Rendering Real Assistance.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:28:33 GMT[How much will PCPS changes help?] The Primary Care Partnership Scheme will be enhanced from next year, but I wonder if it will be of little help to the needy who cannot afford private healthcare even with the subsidy. What we really need..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:19:52 GMT[Deciphering the labelling of S'poreans as 'cynics'] Ultimately, S'poreans have to be brought up to be a thinking citizenry, not apathetic about the state of the nation. More could be done, and it may help if the wrong labels, used out of convenience, are dropped.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:15:37 GMTThe M'sian PM's announcement on a number of changes to the country's laws, including ending the Emergency, will have massive positive implications (Datuk Shad Saleem Faruqi is Emeritus Prof of Law at UiTM and Visiting Prof at USM - TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 16 Sep 2011 00:09:50 GMT[Malaysia to abolish ISA] 'We should not do it just because M'sia is doing it' - that is not what I suggest. But we should really ask ourselves why we need these laws when all developed countries and hundreds of countries around the world can ensure security of its citizens without compromising their basic human rights. Is this a false compromise? Is our police and intelligence so inefficient?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 23:56:04 GMT[Kuan Yew promotes FT policy again: Misinformation] On the 7th anniversary of the LKY School of Public Policy, Kuan Yew explained our low fertility rate and the corresponding counter-measure that PAP govt takes..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 22:34:29 GMT[Najib's ISA reforms vague and limited: Same old 'pretend' game, slams Surendran] The govt's stranglehold on freedoms remains. It is particularly striking that the PM, throughout his speech, uses the language of oppression and underlying menace to declare apparent new freedoms. Every pronouncement is accompanied by warnings, caveats and restrictions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 22:30:24 GMTWhen investment banks hire risk-takers (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 22:22:56 GMTMr Cameron praised the Libyan fighters as 'lions' and described their revolt as the moment 'when the Arab Spring could become an Arab Summer' in which 'we see democracy advance in other countries too' (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 22:05:54 GMT"There's no positive way to spin this: it's either fraud or incompetence. Clients will demand answers.. We know they have new management trying to turn things around, but this reinforces the perception that UBS has a lot more challenges ahead of them." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 22:00:48 GMTI had posted the following comments in Tan Kin Lian's Blog a few days ago. There was also a request from a keen visitor to my blog that I write an update about the Singapore property market. While I will be following up shortly on this topic, I thought it might be apt to post the following while referring to a posting by a popular Blogger, Lucky Tan; on this same subject.....[De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 12:36:35 GMTDear Mr Lee (and everyone out there who subscribes to this same mindset), I am a young single S'porean female. I have a womb, and a degree. They co-exist quite harmoniously, and I would like it to remain that way. I will have my children when I do. Until then, please leave my educated ovaries alone.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 07:51:07 GMTSwiss bank UBS says unauthorised trading by a member of staff at its investment bank has resulted in a loss worth an estimated US$2bn (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 07:31:24 GMTBritish PM David Cameron answered questions [..ON JOBS ..ON BANKERS] in parliament Wednesday. Below are the highlights..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 07:25:36 GMTIn the ST Interview, visiting Prof Aneel Karnani from University of Michigan said, "The sense I get is that Singapore has focused too much on growing the size of its economic pie, and not enough on distributing it." (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 07:18:55 GMTIn an exchange of emails between SDP and the Elections Department, Public Education and Training Manager Goh Jing Xian said ELD recognises that certain procedures during GE 2011 "has not been consistent amongst election officials." Noting this, Dr Chee Soon Juan wrote again to call for a meeting..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 07:07:38 GMT30 per cent of Singaporeans are 'cynics' [285 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 07:02:18 GMT[They change, we change] Recently, PM Lee announced that PAP needed to reform its politics and "engage with the young". Having respect and empathy for establishment figures and their responsibilities is an important first step towards progress, but we have to reserve the option of a qualified freedom of expression that will also be taken seriously.. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 00:22:13 GMTFormer Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew: "Amongst other reasons, I don't believe S'pore can produce 2 top class teams. We haven't got the talent to produce 2 top class teams" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 00:11:08 GMT[No need to distinguish between UK, US English - Letter from Chan Cheng Lin] .. ['Global English' likely to be world's lingua franca. Diverse accents, nuances even in 'British' English - Letter from Phillip Appleyard]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 15 Sep 2011 00:05:40 GMTI refer to "Without migration of some magnitude, S'pore's population will decline, says IPS". We should abandon this form of social engineering, which places less educated and/or lower-income individuals at a disadvantage, indirectly discouraging and limiting their right to have a lifetime partner of their preference (Letter from Aik Theng Chong - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 23:58:32 GMTI refer to the letter "Our population can't keep rising". Personally, I prefer to live in the S'pore of the mid-'80s. But I know we cannot forever remain in the '80s or '90s. No country in the world could, without being sidelined (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 23:48:14 GMTMy wife and I discussed ['AWARE disagrees with Mr Lee'] Couples will have more children if there is an assurance their children are well cared for while they work, and if higher education is attainable (Ong Beng Koon - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 23:37:32 GMTPolicymakers and politicians would do much better to stay out of the bedroom. Science is proving every day that success is not about genetic background but about education and environment (Michael Dee - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 23:28:35 GMTMr Lee Kuan Yew did not suggest Ms Joan Sim forsake her studies in favour of finding a boyfriend, as AWARE implied in its reply. While it is noble of AWARE to promote gender equality and fight for S'pore women's rights, its view is of little relevance.. AWARE should stop painting the image of women being oppressed in S'pore today (Vincent Teo - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 23:23:23 GMT[Lesson learnt, better to pay as you go] Although it is too late for True Spa customers, it is a timely reminder to consumers to be wary of businesses which generate all or most of their income through the sale of prepaid packages..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 23:03:14 GMTCASE president Yeo Guat Kwang suggested that money paid for packages is held by the company in trust for the consumer until the services for which pre-payment is received are rendered, and that there is thus an obligation to refund the customers of the group's spa chain. He is mistaken. (Assoc Prof Kelvin Low, SMU - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 22:54:06 GMTAmericans are turning away from Europe toward Asia, according to a survey released Wednesday showing, for the first time, most U.S. citizens thought China and Japan were more important to their national interest (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 22:33:44 GMTTHE basic letter market has been fully liberalised and open to competition since April 1, 2007 ['Postal services: Encourage competition to improve efficiency' by Mr Ang Chin Guan] There are 4 other licensed postal service operators apart from SingPost.. (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 22:26:45 GMTThe lack of dimension measurements in the layout of my condo unit.. makes it difficult to estimate the size of each room or to verify, upon completion, that my unit was within the agreed size. How are home owners protected as consumers when it comes to buying property? (Letter from Jensen Chong - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 22:09:53 GMTIn recent years, there have been a multitude of complex investment products that even savvy investors cannot honestly claim to fully understand.. (Letter from Tony Lim - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 21:58:15 GMTIf commuters are charged an additional fare... (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 21:51:06 GMT"It's clear from our investigation that Bank of America used illegal retaliatory tactics against this employee" (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 21:44:28 GMT[Singapore's population to hit 5.2 million in 2015: Anything lower, property will blow up] What happens when we hit 5.2 million population in 2015? We will still need more FT for the ponzi to go on and on. PAP seems to be having the idea of importing FT to infinity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 20:56:33 GMT['There's nothing uniquely S'porean about inequality'] Assoc Prof Aneel Karnani of the University of Michigan calls for S'pore to have robust debate on its own model of handling social inequality (News Clips)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 20:52:24 GMTYahoo reported on 10 Sept that there are today 17 people now detained under ISA... have never been charged in open court. Should S'poreans question our govt about the continued imprisonment of the 17? Maybe we should always remember the poem of Pastor Martin Niemoller.. First they came for the Jews.. They then came for me, and there was no one left, to speak for me.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 15:14:10 GMT[Social inequality in S'pore] Last week, I wrote about social mobility in S'pore. The ST Interview of Assoc Prof Aneel Karnani of the University of Michigan in The Straits Times (14 Sep 2011) offers additional thoughts.. Professor Aneel called for S'pore to have its own robust debate on our model of handling social inequality..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 14:59:38 GMTYour place in society... People should not take on those in authority as "equals"...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 14:54:52 GMTIn a democratic system, a competent Opposition should be getting into universities, factories, housing estates, etc.. talking with the people and discussing alternative ideas with them. In S'pore, all these are closed to the Opposition (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 14:49:12 GMTLee Kuan Yew emphasises importance of balanced budget .. He also disputed a participant's claims that his appearances during GE 2011 impacted the PM's overall performance at the polls. "I did not appear so often anyway. I have stood down and I don't know who gave you the impression I appeared so frequently. I have stood down and I am off the press as a focus of attention, and off the electronic media."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 14:10:33 GMT[In The Sea Of Weak Currencies, Can Singapore Be An Exception?] Are our MAS, Temasek and GIC ready for the challenges in the new normal era? Can the old wisdom of Tony Tan, as he claimed during PE2011, help the govt with a better understanding of the world financial market? Perhaps, PAP still prefers to use the old bottle to solve the new normal problems.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 05:35:25 GMTWhat really piques the interest of people watchers is whether the total compensation of all those appointments put together will add to anything remotely resembling WKS's last paycheck as DPM in the S'pore Cabinet. If the headhunters know the quality of every outstanding person, as LKY maintains in his book, how is it that private sector firms have not beat a path to their doors? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 01:41:33 GMTTODAY talks about a FB page called 'Fabrications about PAP' which has only 226 likes , and Baey Yam Keng says "such sites (all set up by the same guy) are useful". CCK GRC MP Zaqy says S'poreans are frustrated that "internet space is fast becoming poison in some respects with untruths and misinformation".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 01:31:02 GMT[Singapore Campus Political Associations: Big Talkers, Little Doers?] Start moving ideas and concepts into real, implementable policies or initiatives.. start showing takeaways from these dialogues, and make a gradual difference through action.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 01:20:25 GMT[Insensitive advertising by law firm] NOTE SENT TO PRESIDENT OF THE LAW SOCIETY OF SINGAPORE ON 13 SEPTEMBER 2011 .. REPLY RECEIVED FROM LAW SOCIETY PRESIDENT ON 13 SEPTEMBER 2011 .. UPDATE ON 14 SEPTEMBER 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 00:10:13 GMT[DBS-OCBC merger? No thanks] For the critics, a merger would mean one less competitor -- not good where customers really want to be spoilt for choice. I had argued against further consolidation then [after former MM Lee called for a consolidation of the local banking sector on June 25 last year], and do so again (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 00:06:08 GMT[M'sia to consider repealing ISA] Few days earlier, our msm informed us that 3 more person were locked up under ISA. Yesterday's press statement from MHA came a day after the 10th anniversary of the Sept 11 attacks, and as S'pore's leaders reiterated the importance of vigilance in tackling the terror threat..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 00:04:11 GMTA Taiwanese air force private executed 14 years ago for the rape and murder of a 5-year-old girl was innocent after all, a military court has ruled. The case has reignited debate in Taiwan over its use of the death penalty (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:45 GMTA farmer whose child was severely burned in a fire had surgery to donate his skin without general anesthesia, as he could not afford the medical fees (China Daily)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 23:57:48 GMTI personally experienced how hard and financially tough it was to care for my father, who was diagnosed with cancer and who has since passed on. Addressing such issues starts with MOH's acknowledgement that there is a problem, and not by being defensive about it. Explaining the cold hard facts of its policies does not solve the problem (Patrick Tan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 23:44:43 GMT[Health financing remains a work in progress] Mr Patrick Tan was concerned about possible gaps in our current healthcare system, particularly in the care of the terminally ill: 'Be open, not defensive, in tackling healthcare issues'. Given finite resources, one principle that we try and uphold is that of ensuring that assistance is targeted and given to those with the greatest need (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 23:41:38 GMTThe blessings of a happy and healthy childhood are still a benefit to peoples' lives deep into middle age, a new study has found. And they keep on being more successful at work into their 50s and throughout their careers (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 23:32:07 GMTI was gratified yet saddened to read best-selling Canadian author Malcolm Gladwell's remarks: "S'pore has done a very good job of building a sustainable civil society which has a healthy core and respect for institutions.." I was saddened because many S'poreans ignore the establishment of the country's solid foundation and choose instead to focus on the negatives (Wong Mei Chun - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 23:22:59 GMTS'pore may be known for its wide variety of exotic, delicious street food, bustling shopping malls and vibrant nightlife. However, the true S'pore spirit remains rooted in the heartland neighborhoods where its rich culture comes alive (Charlene Fang, Marcus Ho - CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 23:17:13 GMTThe fertility industry in the U.S. is largely unregulated. This lets consumers and business people dictate what is acceptable, what is normal, and what is allowable -- including the extreme cases like the one sperm donor who had 150 children. Are such situations a problem? 10 experts share their views (NYTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 23:12:11 GMTI refer to the study reported in "Without migration of some magnitude, Singapore's population will decline, says IPS". As former U.S. President JFK's environmental advisor Kenneth Boulding said 45 years ago: "Anyone who believes in indefinite growth of anything physical on a physically finite planet is either a madman or an economist." (Letter from Tham Su-yin - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 22:32:48 GMTUNICEF sparked national soul-searching with analysis showing child well-being in the UK at the bottom of a league of developed nations.. put too little store on family time and too much on material goods.. a country that has got its priorities wrong - trading quality time with our children for "cupboards full of expensive toys that aren't used" (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 22:27:52 GMT[Becoming a dad causes a testosterone drop that makes men less likely to stray] A study has found that when men become fathers, their bodies suppress production of the sex hormone, making them more interested in parenting than mating (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 22:20:26 GMTThe elite Ivy League had 5 schools in the magazine's top 10, with Harvard and Princeton tied at No. 1 and joined by Yale and Columbia University at 3rd and 4th, respectively, while the University of Pennsylvania shared 5th with CalTech, MIT, Stanford, and the University of Chicago (Slate)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 22:07:29 GMT[Help them grow] Following our market and food center visit in Bedok North last Sunday, Pritam and I caught a performance of the play Serunding.. won the 2010 24Hour Playwriting competition and was first performed in a community tour at the beginning of the year..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 14:04:59 GMT[A KPI driven govt] I often remark this is a govt that often knows the price of everything and the value of nothing. So much of our intangibles they have sold or pawned because they can't measure it.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 13:59:02 GMT[How people can just fall into policy black holes... ] Its amazing people apply rules like robots, and some of these rules are so obscure that people neither expect they exist or can possibly guess they are there. Yet, when they violate them unintentionally, the penalty can be hefty.. One of the worse cases of such rules is the one created by Minister Lim Hng Kiang when he was Minister of Health..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 12:42:19 GMT[This article is based on a talk given at a Singapore Press Club forum] Covering a changing political landscape: the challenge for national media .. "I am hopeful that this is in journalism's interest: in many cases, more transparency and more communication about why the media do what they do will not only push journalists to improve their quality, but will also earn respect, however grudging, from fair-minded S'poreans."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 10:44:18 GMTAbout 60% of those aged between 21 and 39 believe there is media bias, and this has not helped to lift journalistic morale in Singapore (Seah Chiang Nee, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 10:28:15 GMT[Incoherent Flipping Flopping... ] You Now Got Boyfriend Boh?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 10:22:48 GMTFormer PM LKY's comments that a female student pursuing her doctorate degree should "not waste time" and find a boyfriend have drawn criticism from a large local women's organisation (319 comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 09:29:02 GMTThere has been a change in S'pore's politics. But the sobering reality is that it really doesn't matter how close the Opposition gets to the finish line. With the first-past-the-post system, PAP is still in complete control of the entire political system and it has the next half-a-decade to manipulate it to ensure yet another victory (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 09:21:57 GMTSo why was the dispensation of "grandfatherly" advice to PhD candidate Joan Sim greeted with such opprobrium? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 03:44:27 GMT[Articles of law by BHAG SINGH] Can an owner pull out of a deal to sell his property? (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 01:59:53 GMTThe Ministerial Salary Review Committee is still hustling together to hammer out a fair salary for the ministers and the President. One way to go about it is to declare everything up front, be it $5m or $10m. The recommendation must not be something like $1m, plus one or more variable components that cannot be disclosed and protected under the Official Secrecy Act (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 01:12:51 GMT[1983 SBC propaganda drama serial about NS] This youtube video features the theme song of 'Diaries of NS'. Starring Huang Wenyong, Jeffrey Wong, and Ang Puay Heng, this mandarin serial was aired during prime time and watched by over a million chinese-speaking S'poreans..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 00:34:07 GMTI refer to "Retired civil servant jailed for violating OSA". CPIB did not identify the retired officer and declined to disclose which Govt agency he had worked for.. the court had directed that the man should not be named. How is justice served by protecting his identity?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 00:18:55 GMT[Call on PM Lee to act wisely] PAP is, on the whole, a good govt comprising of people who are interested to act for the good of the country. They are misguided in some of their actions -- primarily the desire to remain in power, and to take many actions, above all else, to remain in power.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 00:09:07 GMTI refer to "Don't let political divide turn into divided society", regarding Mr Lee Kuan Yew's dialogue session at NTU. Our nation is evolving, and S'poreans are realising their important roles as active voting citizens of society. Let us not be afraid of political division. Let us embrace a political diversity in which every S'porean has a voice, and no one is left behind.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 13 Sep 2011 00:01:48 GMT[Campus political groups must take leap of faith - "2011 Generation"; last Saturday] The idea is to start moving ideas and concepts into real, implementable policies or initiatives.. to start showing takeaways from these dialogues, and make a gradual difference through action.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 23:54:25 GMTThanks to meritocracy, I graduated with honours and have a good career. I can take my parents for holidays abroad, which was once only a dream (Alex Tan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 23:39:08 GMT[Meritocracy is the only way to tackle inequality fairly] Mrs Nurhidayah Hassan-Le Neel made 2 arguments against meritocracy.. Both claims are untrue. Let us concentrate on moving the curve to the right, instead of focusing on making the curve narrower. I call it compassionate meritocracy, which is still a govt's best way to ensure equality of opportunity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 23:35:18 GMTTHE stark choice between motherhood and professional advancement presented in Mr Lee Kuan Yew's comments to Ms Joan Sim is not new. In 1983, he said.. In 1994, he said.. And now, Ms Sim has been advised to stop wasting time on her doctorate and find a boyfriend instead. Implying that marriage and motherhood are more important than education and work belittles.. (Nicole Tan, President, AWARE - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 22:33:12 GMTAn investigation into UK banks, set up by the Treasury in the wake of the 2008 crisis, has issued its final recommendations to ring-fence retail from investment banking. Why is this happening? (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 22:19:24 GMTThe NATO bombing campaign which fatally weakened Muammar Gaddafi's rule had a secret asset: a 24-year-old Libyan woman who spent months spying on military facilities and passing on the details to the alliance (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 22:10:39 GMT[Ground Zero: September 11, 2001 - September 11, 2011] ..the transformation over the last ten years (boston)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 22:08:06 GMTThe 10 Coolest Concept Cars At The Frankfurt Auto Show.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 16:28:33 GMTDoctors' wages increase thanks to cartel. Medical career for foreigners, junk career for Singaporeans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 16:26:22 GMTMiserable? Of course you are, it's moanday, the worst day of the week when we spend half an hour complaining (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 14:48:26 GMTBank of America Corp CEO Brian Moynihan said its major cost-cutting initiative -- known as New BAC after the company's ticker symbol -- is focusing on consumer banking and the bank's systems architecture. The company built itself through acquisitions over decades and has not properly integrated systems and closed unnecessary branches (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 14:31:53 GMT20 Quotes From European Leaders That Prove They Know The Financial System In Europe Is Doomed.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 14:22:18 GMTAs news surges on the Web, news giants are being outmaneuvered by smaller sites that have passionate audiences and sharply focused information (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 14:17:20 GMTIn the last few weeks, the smartphone industry appeared to produce more lawsuits than phones. But step back and it's clear that the Smartphone Wars aren't just a war of all against all; there's an underlying logic to these disputes.. (Ars Technica)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 14:11:04 GMT[FamiLee Ties] I screwed up and lost..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 13:51:47 GMTLehmans crashed for a simple reason.. It took nothing more than third-grade arithmetic to recognise a housing bubble that had grown hugely out of line with the fundamentals of the housing market.. the only question was the timing, and the exact nature of the process. But don't expect the Greenspan sycophants to admit it (Dean Baker, TheGuardian)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 13:45:32 GMTYahoo! Singapore reporter Jeanette Tan shares her experience spending 2 weeks in August in various parts of Spain for Catholic World Youth Day, "Instead of complaining and ranting about what we don't have, I now feel it more worthwhile to appreciate what we do -- peace, cleanliness, public order, safety, efficiency and a humming economy." [236 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 11:12:26 GMTExpanding on why opposition MPs cannot be appointed GROs, the two-faced PM maintained "...it falls to the grassroots to be the interface, to work with the people to try and help to minimise the impact but at the same time, ultimately, what has to be done has to be done," he declared in all finality. In short, his way or the highway (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 11:07:34 GMT[Reader's comment] The right questions to ask: Why are the losing PAP MPs considered part of govt when they have lost their mandate and authority to do so? Why are they appointed advisors when the people have not chosen them, and they have proved themselves to be incapable and unrepresentative of them? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 05:17:52 GMTThis article will show you the top 10 places to eat in Mainland China outside Beijing and Shanghai (Asian Correspondent)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 05:08:39 GMTRecent events have re-opened the debate over the issue of "confrontational" politics. For a long time, PAP has framed the issue and shaped public opinion at will through the newspapers, TV and radio.. selectively influencing S'poreans' understanding of what constitute "confrontational" and "moderate" opposition politics, and defining these words in such a way as to encourage certain interpretations, and to discourage others (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 02:59:16 GMT[INFOGRAPHIC] The Historical Background of the Vehicles Driven by Legendary Agent 007. All facts mentioned above were gathered with extraordinary caution and daring courage (CarBuzz)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 01:35:39 GMTOne smells a bad omen of yet another round of levy hike, looking at a recent ST article that bemoans a lack of parking space. The article begins by putting the blame on the pace of growth in car ownership overtaking that of HDB's carpark-building program.. It is customary for ST to set the tone before any new policy, so be prepared for further hike in parking fees (VERITAS)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 01:27:38 GMTI was in Johor over the weekend, meandering through small little towns with big detached houses and sprawling gardens. The Malaysians are growing, developing, quietly and at its own pace, with a lot of space for living, and with a cost of living that.. does not need $3m or $5m dollar salary to live well. Today, ST is screaming that we need more spaces for public parks (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 01:16:13 GMTExpect lots more Bank of America fireworks on Monday (BusinessInsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 00:51:30 GMTWhile remaining cognisant of the good works done by PA over the decades, these antiquated contributions must progress with the times and political climate. The suggestions highlighted above can alleviate the tensions at the moment, but long-term improvements can only be instituted from the chambers of Parliament (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 00:33:44 GMT[How Wrong We Were!] PA was not created to "serve" the people, it was created to promote Govt policy! So says our PM, who personally cleared 2 letters written by PA to the press, explaining why it appoints defeated PAP candidates as GROs. It matters not that PA is funded by public money. So are HDB, CPF and all other stat boards...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 00:28:08 GMT[PA - and Everything Else in S'pore? - Belongs to PAP. Triple Confirmed!!! ] For the life and sanity of S'pore, I can't, I just can't believe this guy! Having admitted and apologised that he's screwed up for the past years for not listening to the ground, this guy now has the audacity to say: "I cleared those letters, so I think that is the position". Just how insincere and weak can one be?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 00:16:37 GMTIs service in S'pore really that bad, or are we such difficult customers that we don't deserve good service? Industry experts weigh in (Aimee Chan, CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 00:11:35 GMTThe renewed global economic slowdown is putting pressure on Asian countries to review their export-based growth model, and their vulnerabilities to the inflows and outflows of capital (Martin Khor, TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 12 Sep 2011 00:08:45 GMTRebate for couples who complete approved marriage preparation courses. Trainers who conduct these programs hold professional qualifications in counselling, social work or equivalent (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 23:58:39 GMTPaul Simon Sings "Sound Of Silence" At Ground Zero (BusinessInsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 23:46:48 GMTI agree with Mr Tan Beng Guan ["Unbundle COE from car loan"] In fact, I would like to take it a step further.. disallow car dealers from bidding COE on behalf of the customer. Although shrinkage in the number of COEs is a key reason behind price rise, competition among dealers gives it another big and unwelcome lift (Han Chee Fong - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 23:37:32 GMTI believe there are alternative views to Mr Tan Beng Guan's proposal ["Unbundle COE from car loan"] If COE premiums fall together with car prices, buyers who experience cash-flow issues may not be able to sell their cars. This is an issue MAS and LTA should examine before recession hits us (Kevin Kwek - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 23:32:47 GMTIt is time for the Govt to relook how to further cool the property market down by restricting the sale of private property units to foreigners, as well as by preventing 'flipping' (Koh Chin Chin - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 22:34:52 GMTI read with concern the report that S'pore property developers want the cooling measures reviewed in the coming months. Before the Govt heeds the call from the big players in the property market, it should listen to ordinary S'poreans and other property buyers (Koh Boon Hock - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 22:29:28 GMT[The inexplicable rise in development charges] The Govt is supposed to be abating property prices to make residential property more affordable to the buying public. So I fail to understand why MND decided to revise development charges upwards.. I do not see how raising fees or charges will help bring inflation or costs down (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 22:06:38 GMTWe refer to commentary "Paradise once lost, can't be regained".. quoted Prof Lehmann that "Singapore has been too focused on the design of individual buildings" and that "very few of the many new public spaces are working at the level they should". Prof Lehmann claimed to be "a consultant" to URA. We would like to clarify that he is not, as we have not engaged his services (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 21:59:59 GMTWith hindsight, it is clear the structure of the sector in the years before 2007 was an accident waiting to happen. Institutions had grown distorted in the pursuit of bumper profits..Despite a series of reforms, the industry remains deeply troubled 3 years after the fall of Lehman Brothers (FinancialTimes - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 21:50:55 GMT"On Sep 9, 2011, Carol Bartz resigned from the board of directors of Yahoo! Inc., effective immediately," a spokesperson wrote in an e-mail Sunday. After being fired [as CEO on Tuesday], Bartz gave an inflammatory interview in which she characterized Yahoo's board as "doofuses" who "f***** me over" (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 21:46:44 GMT[Infographic] A world without FACEBOOKhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 14:53:06 GMT[Appropriate Responses, S'il Vous Plait - if you please] By now, the incident is well documented. All of S'pore have heard. Instead of answering her, Mr Lee Kuan Yew decided to engage her. By choosing not to answer an earnest question, and by choosing instead to lecture a biological student on the biology of the best child-bearing years, is a superlative insult.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 14:39:26 GMT[Poor Joan Sim: Lee Kuan Yew's Embarrassing Personal Questions about whether she has a Boyfriend] I am writing this post just to give some words of comfort to the poor girl.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 14:33:26 GMTPM Lee said it is not by chance that S'pore has had 10 peaceful years since the 9/11 attacks in the U.S. "We pre-empted, detected, arrested and detained people who would have done bad things to us, and could have done us a lot of harm.."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 14:29:16 GMTMid-Autumn Warmthhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 12:34:13 GMT15 Reasons Why I Blog.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 11:12:26 GMTIn his 1983 NDR speech as PM, Mr Lee Kuan Yew highlighted his govt's concerns about falling fertility rate in S'pore. Almost 30 years later, in 2011, Mr Lee again raised the matter of falling birth rates. It is time that we had a national debate - facilitated by all media channels - on the issue of our fertility rate and get to the root of the matter, once and for all (Andrew Loh - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 09:32:49 GMTThe world got a sneak peek at Windows 8 at the D9 conference in May. Now, Microsoft is ready to more fully peel back the covers on the next version of its flagship operating system. That look will come next week at the company's Build developer conference in Anaheim, Ca. [AllThingsD]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 09:22:34 GMT[EXILE] We cannot imagine how an exile feel because we are not exiles. In every decade of S'pore's history, there are innocent people who became exiles. Many have lost their S'pore citizenship because of an unjust amendment made to our Constitution.. to deprive a citizen of his citizenship if he does not return before the expiry of 10 years. Below is a poem written by the late Mr Tan Jing Quee..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 09:05:30 GMTYi Peng has Asperger's syndrome and is an albino. He had to overcome his shyness and his half blindness. He was enrolled in the school from 1997 to 2000, after many schools refused to take him in (Malaysia Chronicle)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 08:56:12 GMTMeritocracy in Singapore...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 08:51:09 GMTPM Lee said Saturday that PA's GROs, as part of the govt, require "somebody who is working on behalf of the govt". PA has also sent 2 letters to the media, stating "it is not possible" to appoint Opposition MPs as advisers. "I cleared those letters, so I think that is the position," said Mr Lee (174 comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 08:46:18 GMTMedicare is more of an issue [than Social Security], but that is because the U.S. healthcare system is broken. If we had the same per person healthcare costs as any other wealthy country, we would be looking at "huge budget surpluses", not deficits. This is why serious people focus on fixing the U.S. healthcare system, not cutting Medicare.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 08:37:56 GMTRemembering the sequence of events on the morning of September 11, 2001 by the minute (BusinessInsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 08:34:20 GMT[PM hopes for robust but constructive debate in Parliament] At the end of the day, it is wiser to conduct a fair fight but PAP just wouldn't do it. Good luck to you (Mr PM). I also expect you to have an even harder time replenishing your talent bench. Truly good men and women do not identify with bullies, much less join them.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 03:30:02 GMT[Shocked And Dafted, Will Joan End Up Like Wei Ling?] Does it hurt a very old man to be haunted by arrogant and heartless decisions he made decades ago?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 00:11:55 GMTDear MM Lee: I refer to 6 Sept 2011 report [Helping some in society "comes at cost to others"] If solving the lower end problem means upsetting people in the middle, and solving the problem in the middle means upsetting the people at the upper end, it means there isn't enough to go around for everyone. But how can this be, when we have budget surpluses and the economy has grown by so much?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 00:07:04 GMTDear MM Lee: I refer to 7 Sept 2011 ST report ["English gave S'pore a head start: Mr Lee"] There is a mistaken notion that English gave us a head start, and was vital to our survival and ability to attract multinationals.. The role of English is thus overstated and other factors appear more important. It is therefore far from true that S'pore would have been left behind had we not chosen English.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 11 Sep 2011 00:02:02 GMTMr Koo Tsai Kee's commentary Tuesday praised S'pore's cornerstone of success -- meritocracy. But in reality, meritocracy remains a limited system that does not, and cannot, benefit everyone. This reality is even harsher in a country like Singapore.. Mr Koo underestimated the importance of cultural capital in aiding an individual's social mobility.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 23:55:10 GMT[Social mobility in Singapore] While we congratulate those who have made it through the lower income ranks, we must also be aware that certain factors have now made it increasingly more difficult for social mobility to take place. By being mindful of these, we can hopefully give those who are less privileged a better chance to succeed.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 23:52:55 GMT[Media censorship: us versus them?] ...it is Tan Tarn How's play, "Fear Of Writing", that will pass the test of time. He doesn't cop out by framing the political as 'us versus them'. Ultimately, it is always, and only about, us.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 23:49:41 GMTMayor Sam Tan disclosed Saturday that his agency has set aside enough funds for a Recession Economic Assistance Package [Reap] to help families with laid-off workers in the event of a downturn (Straits Times)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 23:31:44 GMT"The banks will be forced to STOP gambling with your money... and they can meet the costs" (Vince Cable is currently Britain's Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills - dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 23:17:57 GMT[Engaging the people] PM Lee wants PAP to listen to the people, and to engage more effectively with them. Here is a summary of the views expressed in TKL's Facebook. I believe PM Lee wants to listen and will implement the changes, but it is difficult for him..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 11:20:08 GMT[The Culture of "Excuse Me" and PAP] Children are growing up by just saying 'excuse me' and they claim that they have the right to ask you to give way.. and our culture of 'excuse me' has educated our children growing up not knowing right and wrong. It seems to suggest that Right is when you have power, wealth and connection..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 11:11:13 GMT["Mr Lee: Beware rifts that hinder progress"] Dear MM Lee: I refer to 6 Sept 2011 ST report. If you are so concerned about national solidarity, you should stop the PAP's and associated agencies' abuse of their powers for political advantage at the expense of national solidarity. For a start, the PA, HDB, and the losing PAP candidate should play fair by not taking over land residing in Opposition wards.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 11:01:46 GMTPM Lee also laid down what he expects from PAP MPs.. to believe in what they say, and master the subject in their speeches.. to speak up for their constituents, and help to form and shape views to develop a consensus and move forward together (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 10:54:24 GMT[Build a democratic society] In a democracy, the people are allowed to vote for the leaders to represent them in Parliament. S'pore has introduced a system where 4 to 6 people are voted as a team to represent a super constituency, also called a GRC. In a survey carred out in TKL's facebook, 89% of 107 respondents voted in favour of returning to the SMC system.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 10:47:08 GMTPM Lee urges the Malay community to view revised Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy (TTFS) scheme in the right spirit.. after Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim announced Friday that the criterion has been changed, from monthly household income to per capita income.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 10:38:45 GMTLee Kuan Yew said he had been consciously switching between British and American English on the computer, and he saw himself moving towards American English.. Teachers might thus do well to accept this trend. Yeah, but did he tell them to master their spelling first? .. [Take the Self-assesment test at www.goodenglish.org.sg to "win a trip to London"] SingaporeNoteshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 03:39:08 GMT8 ways older workers can enhance job security.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 03:07:19 GMTIF YOU ARE A BANK OF AMERICA SHAREHOLDER... Even the bulls who believe Bank of America can earn its way out of its problems freely admit that the bank's stock is not likely to do much the next several years (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 03:02:18 GMT[Governing in the new normal] The state needs to broaden its basis of legitimacy... Increasingly, S'poreans care also about the fairness of our political system, and about having checks and balances on govt (News Clips)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 02:56:43 GMT[Why using current birth rate to justify foreign influx is wrong... ] It is not Joan Sim's fault we need to import so many foreigners. It is not the fault of ordinary S'poreans that PAP govt likes to blame. The truth is PAP's unbalanced policies, poor planning, and pro-business attitude have put the interests of ordinary S'poreans right at the bottom in its decision making...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 02:43:50 GMT...the 200 jumpers who flung themselves from the Twin Towers, who have been 'airbrushed from history' (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 02:21:15 GMTBike sharing is on the verge of becoming an integral part of public transportation in cities across the globe. This system of impromptu bike renting is helping urban areas reduce automotive traffic and pollution while providing locals and tourists with a convenient, cheap and healthy means of transport (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 01:48:51 GMT[S'pore: encouraging immigration to solve population woes?] Mr Lee Kuan Yew has always patently stood by his idea of a liberal immigration policy. In 2003 at a similar dialogue, he had expressed the same ideas... In 2005, he wrote an article published in Foreign Policy magazine urging for govt intervention in resolving demographics issue..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 01:45:50 GMTWe thank Mr Lee Seck Kay ['Let the public use sports facilities for free']. Singapore Sports Council's 15 stadiums are open to the public for free. For SSC's other facilities like swimming pools, a nominal, highly subsidised fee is charged, to defray part of the ongoing operating costs, for members of the public who use the facilities.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 01:33:42 GMT[great pictures] A dazzling array of colors from a spectacular fireworks display lit up the waterfront in Auckland, New Zealand on Friday as the country's largest city launched the 2011 Rugby World Cup (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 01:21:26 GMT[InfoGraphic] With 35+ million iPads heading out the door in 2011, and a projected sales volume of more than 68 million by 2013, the success appears to be growing, not shrinking (iPad CTO)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 01:14:05 GMTAnd the evidence of its birth as a govt watchdog system lies in Libya, Syria, Iran, and other countries - even the U.S. - where bloggers and tweeters have informed the world about govt affairs in places where journalists have been shut out. "They have broken down the gatekeeper." (MarketWatch)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 00:59:08 GMT[Reaching out to the young ones] About 60% of those aged between 21 and 39 believe there is media bias, and this has not helped to lift journalistic morale in Singapore (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 00:34:51 GMTChina has a high incidence of birth defects. About 800,000 to 1.2 million children are born with congenital malformations every year, which accounts for around 5 percent of the total births. In the U.S. in 2009, the comparable figure was 0.68 percent (China Daily)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 00:19:22 GMTIncrease the daily levy to at least $300, and charge between $5,000 and $8,000 for the annual levy (Michael Teo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 00:07:32 GMTLimit a citizen's visits to casinos (Kuo How Nam, President, Credit Counselling Singapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 10 Sep 2011 00:04:43 GMTJoan Sim might be ruing that she ought to have responded to LKY with, "I don't know what to say!" (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 23:57:27 GMTMr Koo Tsai Kee's commentary Tuesday praised S'pore's cornerstone of success -- meritocracy. But in reality, meritocracy remains a limited system that does not, and cannot, benefit everyone. This reality is even harsher in a country like Singapore.. Mr Koo underestimated the importance of cultural capital in aiding an individual's social mobility.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 23:39:57 GMTI refer to the various scenarios by Institute of Policy Studies concerning need to bring in different numbers of immigrants.. Solving the ageing population issue is a complex one, and using economic growth as a benchmark of success and prosperity may not be accurate enough.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 23:31:45 GMTOnline chatter may be a wild cowboy town and may not be empirical, but it cannot be ignored simply because there is no more sweeping issues under the carpet. That is how curry smell inspired a Chinese S'porean to proclaim a national curry day, which landed on the front page of ST. If the national paper recognises the power of online chatter, Dr da Cunha should get on board soon (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 23:26:18 GMTSome observations made by Mr G Pillai puzzled me, for example, his remark that "65 per cent of the electorate wanted a president who had no previous close links with the ruling party". In a 4-cornered contest, we cannot establish that the 65 per cent who did not vote for Dr Tony Tan were "against" him.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 23:22:01 GMTRajah & Tann expands its regional footprint... its competitive edge "is that it has strong cultural affinity with clients and extensive ties with industry and businesses in the region, is familiar with local languages, and is able to litigate before the local courts"... the quality of its lawyers and legal services are on par with English and US firms but are priced more competitively (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 22:43:40 GMTIf there are any human traders still out there who happen to be reading this, the UK Foresight project team has some news for you : don't expect to be trading for much longer. The project is a group of academics from over 20 countries who decided to get together and study the effects of computer-based trading. Here is what the report had to say.. (TheBigPicture)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 15:44:50 GMT[Pizza Infographic] Pizza Consumption Around The Worldhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 14:01:35 GMT[Obama's 5 Main Proposals for Fixing the Jobs Crisis] We saw the president, for the first time in awhile, deliver a serious package of proposals to Congress targeting the most relevant issue of the day. Here are the main ideas.. (good)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 13:51:46 GMT[Another nasty remark, another denial... what's next?] As good citizens and good Muslims, I feel we should accept (our octogenarian and venerable ex-MM's clarification) at face value and move on. For the sake of academic argument, however, I feel there is no harm in exploring what actually could have taken place on that occasion..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 13:43:42 GMTMinster-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim said the proportion of Malay households who benefit from the Tertiary Tuition Fee Subsidy [TTFS] scheme, set up in 1991, has fallen as the eligibility criteria have not kept pace with rising incomes (StraitsTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 13:32:37 GMTPM Lee said: "Whether [they are] neighborhood schools... vocational institutes [or]... schools with students with special needs -- we will create many more pathways to success, not just a single, narrow road to the top. And we will give every S'pore child the opportunity to succeed, and the means to achieve his potential and fulfil his goal."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 13:27:44 GMT[Infographic] Veganism Myths Debunkedhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 12:41:27 GMT[A passive lot] S'poreans are a passive lot. They prefer to give their views, and criticize wrong doings, in the social media but are not prepared to take stronger action. In a survey in Tan Kin Lian's FB page, 78% of the 68 respondents said...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 12:30:56 GMTA nation divided...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 12:22:09 GMTPresumably the announced plan for MICA to spearhead Govt's new media efforts is aimed at getting "S'poreans to see PAP for what it is, and what it has always been." However the dichotomy of what the social media sees and what the msm reports is just too great (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 12:18:51 GMT[Dumbass Remark of the Week -- NTU's Professor Ang: "You need, basically, 2 people just to maintain one site"] ...no, you don't need just 2 people to maintain one site, you need a whole bloody team.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 12:11:07 GMTIf You Missed Last Night's Jobs Speech, Just Read These 2 Paragraphs (BusinessInsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 12:04:20 GMTA good way to unify the people of S'pore is to follow the goals of our national pledge .... "to build a democratic society based on justice and equality". How do you interpret these 3 words, and what can be done to better achieve the goals?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 07:21:05 GMT[Ex-MM Lee to PHD student : Do you have a boyfriend?] Mr Lee's very personal and somewhat humorous questions must have left Joan Sim rather stunned. However, there are a few points in Mr Lee's reply to Joan Sim that has to be examined carefully..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 07:15:04 GMT[Trouble in (Research) Paradise] I have a lot more to say on this sudden change in research funding policies at A*Star, but it's difficult to cohere it all into an article. So, I'm going to take the lazy way out: quoting sections from the Straits Times article and interspersing my comments..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 05:13:58 GMT[How to unify the people of Singapore] Here is a summary of 38 comments by readers of Tan Kin Lian's Facebook... Perhaps, the following words of the Singapore pledge can best help to unify the people ... "build a democratic society based on justice and equality".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 05:10:18 GMT[Does Tony Tan continue to get his DPM pension?] When the recommendations of the Ministerial Salary Review Committee comes out, we should scrutinise the report not only with respect to salaries, but also pension arrangements. It will be ridiculous if this is not promptly amended to align with the natural meaning of the word "pension", which is a payment after retirement..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 05:00:30 GMTPM Lee wants PAP to be able to listen more to the people, and to be able to engage the people more effectively. What can be done?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 04:55:56 GMTMalnutrition and unintentional weight loss are some of the health issues many elderly people grapple with. So if one's pushing 70, and on the chubby side, should he or she even bother to try losing excess weight? (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 01:53:22 GMT[Making HDB flats affordable to first time buyers] I carried out 2 surveys in my Facebook... I have written a separate article in Tan Kin Lian's blog...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 01:45:25 GMTGolden years losing lustre for many.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 01:39:24 GMT[How to increase the birth rate in S'pore] The birth rate in S'pore is among the lowest in the world. It kept declining over 25 years, in spite of Govt measures to reverse the trend. Here is a summary of 75 comments in my FB, identifying the causes and measures to improve the birth rate..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 01:33:18 GMTWhy all the screaming for higher fertility rate? Actually it has nothing to do with raising fertility rate, unless they are bringing in the studs... The low fertility problem is endemic to the system (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 00:38:10 GMT[great pictures] Photographer captures stunning lagoons of Croatia national park (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 00:25:48 GMT9.11 anniversary: infographics (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 00:21:06 GMTLots of people come to the Kovan Market. Aunty has something to say to me -- what do you think it is? "Young man, you worry too much. Your hair is grayer than mine"?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 09 Sep 2011 00:01:17 GMTProf Ang Peng Hwa, director of S'pore Internet Research Centre at NTU, said that, after posting their comments, people expect a response in 24 hours. "Which means your staff is working during the holidays," he said. "So, it's not trivial." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 23:36:56 GMTAt a talk I delivered at SMU.. I identified 3 voting segments. It is understandable these views will be unpalatable to some segments of voters. It is sufficient to quote the last sentence from Evgeny Morozov's The Net Delusion: How Not To Liberate The World: 'Cyber-realists would believe a world made up of bytes may defy the law of gravity but absolutely nothing dictates it should also defy the law of reason.'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 23:25:20 GMTMr Lee Kuan Yew's timely comment ["Mr Lee: Beware rifts that hinder progress"] throws a spotlight on S'pore's current state of domestic affairs. S'pore has a unique system which has produced a strong govt with decisive leadership. S'pore must retain the edge of having a stable govt with effective leadership..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 23:10:55 GMTTonight at 7:00 p.m. EDT [7 a.m. Singapore], President Obama will lay out his plan in a speech before a special joint session of Congress (The White House Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 22:55:25 GMT"True Group's chief executive was reported to have said it would be unfair to refund money to those who bought packages before the spa chain was closed. CASE strongly disagrees with such a position. We have set up a taskforce to study the matter and if necessary, we will recommend to the Govt to change the law." (Yeo Guat Kwang, CASE - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 22:45:57 GMT[Fair pricing for data usage?] An existing telecom industry practice has come to my attention -- one that I think is unfair. M1 charges 10 cents per 10kB of local data usage. This translates to S$120,000 for 12GB of local data usage. Compare this with a minimum data plan of S$36 monthly, which comes with 12GB of data free. Would IDA or CASE endorse this practice? The consumer should have a choice to use data without a plan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 22:39:38 GMTI refer to the letter "Book seller or gaming company?". Your reader suggests that such techniques are unethical and could create "avid gamblers", which we deny strenuously. Our sweepstakes require no financial commitment or risk to our customers. Reader's Digest believes that thanking customers for looking at our product offers, with a chance to win, is not unethical at all (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 22:28:05 GMT"We have to be active in listening, as well as in putting our message across, and in countering mistaken views and disinformation." He also said PAP must also strengthen its presence in cyberspace - not just going onto FB and Twitter, but being on same wavelength as netizens, and resonating with the Internet generation [200 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 15:34:05 GMT[George Yeo's cryptic message reconsidered] Right on the eve of Cooling-off day on 25th August, former Minister George Yeo posted this cryptic message on his Facebook wall... Did George Yeo make that cryptic message to get back at Tony Tan and the PAP which stood against his Presidential ambitions?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 14:26:15 GMT[great pictures] World Trade Center rises in poignant pillars of light as New York makes final preparations for 9/11 anniversary (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 14:19:18 GMT[Why Investors Can Make Better Decisions With Less Information] From Yoav Ganzach: "Judging Risk and Return of Financial Assets"..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 14:15:56 GMTPublic debt: US$70,000 per Singaporean?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 14:11:23 GMT"Singapore's population will shrink without immigrants" [322 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 14:09:02 GMTNotice that Mr LKY did not ask Ms Sim if she had even wanted to be a mother in the first place. He simply assumed that she should. And after all that jabbing, did Mr LKY answer the question which Ms Sim had stood up to ask? Or was she being punished for asking a question like that? (Blinkymummy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 09:03:10 GMTFrom China with love...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 08:57:37 GMTHopes that the Yale-NUS plan will encourage creative, analytical and critical education in Asia appear overly optimistic to Yale alumni who instead point to a "brand-building"exercise. Those who expected "free-thinking" Yale to expand freedom any way forget its historic role as a bastion of the U.S. establishment (Asia Times)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 08:55:31 GMTPlans for Ivy League liberal arts to come to S'pore through a collaboration between Yale and NUS quickly led to the island-state being touted as the thought center of Asia. However, Yale alumni and S'poreans who've suffered restrictions on free debate say the pride of America's university system has compromised its principles (Asia Times)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 08:52:29 GMTThe Growth of Social Media: An Infographichttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 08:41:19 GMTMr Zainul Abidin Rasheed, a candidate who contested in the GRC for the PAP, and lost: "Local programs were insufficient to carry the PAP team. All the good work over the years and the excellent program promised voters became almost irrelevant, hijacked by a call for a credible Opposition presence in Parliament, and a more listening govt." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 08:21:19 GMT"We have to be active in listening, as well as in putting our message across, and in countering mistaken views and disinformation." He also said PAP must also strengthen its presence in cyberspace - not just going onto FB and Twitter, but being on same wavelength as netizens, and resonating with the Internet generation (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 08:19:30 GMTThe International Bar Association has invited Dr Chee to speak at its conference in Dubai. However, Dr Chee needs to apply to the Official Assignee for permission to travel as he was made a bankrupt by Mr Lee Kuan Yew and Mr Goh Chok Tong in 2006. All previous applications, numbering more than 20, to attend conferences overseas have been denied by the OA... (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 08:14:54 GMTHK is said to be the Culinary Capital of Asia. The city has over 10,000 restaurants that serve up dishes that range from traditional flavors to contemporary fusion cuisine (Asian Correspondent)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 08:09:24 GMT"There's definitely a division in the PAP".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 05:16:25 GMT[Gambling Addiction on the rise in Singapore] "...about 7 in 10 of them say the casinos at the IRs are the main reason for their money woes." - The Straits Times, 8 Sep 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 05:06:48 GMT[Fear mongering before the next immigration surge] The Straits Times had a front page article today entitled "Population will shrink without immigrants". Here, I'll be talking about some things which may not be immediately apparent to people thinking about immigration.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 05:05:11 GMTA frank, candid and insightful commentary on the PAP, its mediocre ministers, kiasu policies and 'atas' attitude. A must read (Ah Sook Fables - FaceBook)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 04:49:08 GMTFor the equivalent of about US$30 per break-up, a new breed of China websites will hit a soon-to-be ex with the bad news and save the timid customer the anguish of doing it himself (Free Malaysia Today)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 04:43:58 GMT[great pictures] 40,000 workers all walk off job to protest at rally at NSW Parliament House.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 04:23:23 GMTThe Institute of Policy Studies dog and pony show comes on right on cue after MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC Lee Kuan Yew told NTU students that 20,000 - 25,000 immigrants a year is "politically digestible", but 60,000 is not (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 04:14:03 GMTS'pore has a low birth rate, among the lowest in the world. This is the result of wrong govt policies for the past 25 years. We need to reverse these wrong policies now, so as to reverse the low birth rate. Increasing immigration is just a short term solution. What are your views?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 03:52:06 GMT[MediaCorp's election coverage let off with a light touch] The main mental block for MediaCorp on election night was probably not the risk of misleading its audience, but its reluctance to attribute unconfirmed reports to the Straits Times [all of which turned out to be accurate.] journalism.sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 03:44:18 GMT[Solving the housing problem in Singapore] I suggest the following approach...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 01:50:42 GMTSomeone told me: "I am not jealous other people are rich, but when they start to pay higher prices for their property, it will also increase the price I have to pay for mine, and I cannot afford it." Do you agree?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 01:41:51 GMT"@Irish Coffee: Damn ! every quarter PAP brings in thousands of New Citizens to dilute and displace us, Native Singaporeans !"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 01:36:14 GMTSingapore's resident population will decline and become older if the birth rate remains extremely low, and new immigrants are kept out (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 01:29:49 GMTAll it needs is for someone to dig a hole that is big enough. This would lead to a series of attempts, and more bad policies and decisions, to cover the big hole. And what it gets is more holes, or the big hole getting bigger. Today, they are starting to dig another one... to grow the population (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 01:26:19 GMT"THE Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers is very concerned over the poor command of English among our workforce. A key factor is the weak language foundation among teachers and students. Only 25% of teachers are competent in English, which makes learning more difficult for students." (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 01:01:47 GMT[Greater income equality] S'pore has a high Gini index of 42.5. This means that among Singapore earners, the top 10% earn 42.5 times of the bottom 20%. When there is a big gap in income, the lower income groups find it difficult to cope with the cost of living. In our national pledge, we ask for "equality and justice". The people are asking for "greater equality", and not "greater inequality".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 08 Sep 2011 00:54:03 GMTI personally experienced how hard and financially tough it was to care for my father, who was diagnosed with cancer and who has since passed on. Addressing such issues starts with MOH's acknowledgement that there is a problem, and not by being defensive about it. Explaining the cold hard facts of its policies does not solve the problem (Patrick Tan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 22:46:38 GMTMany Indonesian domestic workers have been schooled in villages and English is never in their schools' curriculum. To have high expectations of them in English fluency, or to pass the English entry test within 2 months of drilling in their home country, is to lose touch with reality (Alice Cheah, Caregivers Centre - STForum online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 22:42:46 GMT[WikiLeaks : Structural Inefficiencies due to GLCs] Today 311,000 S'porean workers are on workfare. The consequence and tragedy of PAP's unbalanced policies is the emergence and rise of poverty in S'pore at a time when this country has more wealth than ever... more concentrated in the hands of the few.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 22:33:27 GMT[Thomas Friedman Wants YOU to Sacrifice] That's right, he said it in his column today. He approvingly quoted Kishore Mahbubani, a retired diplomat who is now dean of LKY School of Public Policy at NUS. Sacrifice is wonderful if it serves a purpose, but there are 2 big unanswered questions.. (cepr)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 22:20:23 GMTBy suing 131 individuals in its effort to recover losses on US$200 billion of mortgage debt that went sour, the federal agency is trying to hold actual people, not just companies, responsible for their roles in the global financial crisis. The change from prior federal efforts may stem from the belief that it has enough evidence to pursue civil claims against banking executives (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 22:08:47 GMTThe North American Securities Administrators Association put together its annual list of "tricks and traps" for investors to avoid. Here are some of the scams to watch out for so you're better prepared if one comes your way.. (Reuters Money)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 15:35:53 GMTSingapore's language battle: American vs Queen's English?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 15:27:54 GMTS'pore is seeking to ensure its food security through research and development in urban agribusiness. There are at least 4 prongs in this strategy.. (Yang Razali Kassim, RSIS, NTU - East Asia Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 15:23:44 GMTInfographicKinghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 15:19:09 GMTVenomous tongue, venomous leak...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 12:30:29 GMT[Every September, a concentration camp] The Formula One race each September speaks of what's wrong with the S'pore model - buttering up the elite while making life miserable for the ordinary guy. It's not just that each September that our city becomes a concentration camp. All year round, we may be living in an information concentration camp.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 12:28:48 GMT[Message to President Tony Tan] Here is a summary of the polite messages sent to President Tony Tan from Tan Kin Lian's Facebook.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 12:20:46 GMT[National Divide in S'pore is the Result of Unfair Practices Created by PAP] If we want to be a special country emphasizing high economic growth supported by having unfair practices in S'pore, then it is better to be an ordinary country, a normal country having fairer treatment to all citizens here.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 12:17:48 GMT[Loss of jobs to foreigners] This is a summary of over 40 comments posted in Tan Kin Lian's Facebook.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 12:15:15 GMTA Speaker of Parliament need not be an elected MP. However...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 05:26:55 GMTIn the summary of the WikiLeaks account [on the Wee Shu Min saga], it is recorded: "...The govt rarely if ever acknowledges a mistake. But once it has made one, it moves quickly and quietly to defuse and deflate grievances that might lead to wider discontent." Unfortunately for them, a new generation of S'poreans has grown up, and they will be saying in chorus, "You remember this!" (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 05:22:49 GMT[Emergency Fund] Every person should build up an emergency fund to meet your cash needs during unemployment, unexpected medical bills or other emergencies.. you will not have to borrow money on your credit card and incur 24% in interest charges. If you earn $5,000 a month...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 03:35:20 GMTIs it difficult for young graduates to find a job during the past few months? Please share your experience, or from people you know.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 02:42:23 GMT[Taxes, Income Inequality, and the fallacy of trickle down economics... ] During the PE, one common theme the candidates adopted was they aspired to be a "uniter" if elected to office. The political divide is ultimately linked to the economic divisions that has deepened in our society. If President Tony Tan does not have influence to change divisive policies, how is he going to play the role of "uniter"?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 02:39:42 GMT[Impact of Income Inequality] A country with a greater income equality will allow more people to earn enough to meet the cost of living and raise a family. This is why a low income country with greater income equality gives a better life to the people, rather than a high income country with greater income inequality.. "the rich gets richer, and the poor gets poorer".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 01:02:57 GMTThen we have the swearing-in of the new President.. I saw MP Lim Boon Heng sitting about 15 or 20 rows behind the ministers. I tried looking for MP MBT and MP WKS but failed to locate them. Now where is MP LKY? I think I did not see him either. The one who was sitting in the front row was MP Goh Chok Tong ESM. His ESM is real. What is the official title of LKY? Today, ST addresses him as former PM (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 00:56:19 GMT[Need for a university degree] Here is a summary of 50 comments posted in Tan Kin Lian's Facebook.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 00:29:36 GMT[infographic] To answer that question, you have to look at the volume of students, volume of college debt, and the resulting employment and earnings figures (CreditDonkey)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 00:23:30 GMT"I believe we will be exposed more and more to American English and so it might be as well to accept it as inevitable, and to teach our students to recognise and maybe, to even speak American English." (165 comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 07 Sep 2011 00:03:52 GMTI refer to Mr Murali Sharma's letter "Good English starts at home". Parents and teachers should aim to inculcate a sense of self-directed learning in the learner. It is only with the effort of the learner that English standards can be improved by leaps and bounds.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 23:59:26 GMT[Is our education system hindering the birth of outstanding talent?] Outstanding people have different mindsets. But our education system focuses on exam results, and classifies students in a manner that does not do justice to the nation's talent and potential. If there is no stigma attached to students who are different...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 23:55:22 GMT86% of survey participants suggest the salary of a govt minister should be $500,000. At this salary, will we be able to attract capable people to be in the govt?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 23:39:09 GMT"Under the securities laws at issue here, it does not matter how 'big' or 'sophisticated' a security purchaser is, the seller has a legal responsibility to accurately represent the characteristics of the loans backing the securities being sold". According to the lawsuits, the securities should have never been sold.. (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 23:30:27 GMTThe erosion of U.S. consumer spending is partly a symptom of deeper shifts: the nation's widening income gap, and the erosion of jobs that pay enough to give people a toehold in the middle class. Should U.S. policy makers strive to rebuild the middle class with middle-paying jobs? If that is a lost battle, what is the alternative path to recovery? (6 experts share their views - NYT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 23:21:56 GMTMs Ooi Hui Mei stated that PA does not take part in party-political activities. However, PAP MPs form more than half of PA's board of management. This, in itself, suggests the stat board is partisan, compounded by PA's track record of appointing only PAP MPs as advisers to GROs, even in constituencies where the public has voted in an MP from another political party.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 23:10:33 GMTIt would be futile for PA to continue denying it is not neutral when it continues the practice of appointing defeated PAP candidates as grassroots advisers in Opposition wards: 'PA explains rationale for choosing advisers'. To prevent the public from continuing to lambaste PA as being partisan, I would suggest it does the following...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 22:55:56 GMTI refer to Ms Pamela Oei's letter: 'A case for repealing 377A'. Just because the law is not in one's favour, it should not be changed to suit one's convenience.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 22:50:17 GMTJust in case you hadn't noticed, Singapore's skyline is one of the most distinctive in the world (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 22:40:26 GMTAs long as the threat of Indonesian jihadism remains, regional insecurity will continue. In particular, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore will be directly affected by this threat (Assoc Prof Bilveer Singh, NTU - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 22:31:45 GMTThe 110-storey landmarks that dominated the Manhattan skyline for nearly 30 years were reduced to rubble in the 9/11 suicide attacks of 2001. Now - a decade since they were lost, and with new construction on the site well-advanced - take a look back at the life of New York's twin towers (audio slideshow, BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 22:09:22 GMTIf you go to see a financial adviser and you are only asked 2 main questions - how much money will you need in retirement, and what's your risk tolerance? - you should run for the hills (Reuters Money)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 21:56:51 GMTDear PA or is it PAP? ..can I ask some questions?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 16:00:34 GMT[Why words when deed is there for the doing?] As PAP grapples with an increasingly polticised electorate, the thing to watch out for is a tendency to speak soothing words, but yield little of substance... Well, if PM Lee really mean it, he should make Article 5A of our constitution operative with immediate effect.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 15:58:44 GMT[Did the former Minister Mentor really say it?] Could the fact that it was not recorded in the MFA notes of the meeting be conclusive proof the offending words were not used by the former MM? To refresh the memory of S'poreans, perhaps it should be remembered that our former MM is not immune to making booboos from time to time.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 15:53:48 GMTWikiLeaks : PAP recruits from lower tiers... [don't miss Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 15:49:32 GMTMP for Tampines GRC, Baey Yam Keng, said: "This is the first time where there are more non-PAP members - both opposition MPs and also NMPs, NCMPs in parliament. So the speaker will have a very challenging task ahead to manage the dynamics in the new chamber." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 08:38:31 GMTThe challenge for journalists who feel that what they say and think are the only thing that matters is to jump in and sift through the documents. They should write about what was exposed in those cables and put them in context (Asian Correspondent)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 08:07:52 GMTYesterday's ST report "SDP's new CEC under scrutiny" is yet another example of how the press is used to help PAP maintain its grip on power. The report cited Prof Eugene Tan of SMU.. (Singapore Democrats)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 08:01:19 GMT[Grassroots organisations and advisers] This is a summary of 2 surveys and an open discussion on the role of grassroots organisations and advisers, as carried out in Tan Kin Lian's Facebook.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 07:50:48 GMT[PA should not serve political party as it's taxpayer-funded] It is quite clear that the mandate of the PA is to help build a more cohesive and engaged society. The PA's role is not to explain or implement govt policies. That role is clearly for the civil service, which the PA is not part of.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 07:44:21 GMT[Salary of govt ministers] This is a summary of the survey and the comments by readers of Tan Kin Lian's Facebook.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 07:36:48 GMT[Jobless PMET Providing Vital Feedback on Our Govt Aid Agencies] Hi Gilbert: Great site you have, I have a few queries, and some feedbacks...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 07:33:12 GMT[Low interest rate is harmful] At a certain point in the future, the housing prices will collapse. It happened in Japan, USA and Europe. A more fundamental question is - could the developed economies have adopted a different approach (instead of low interest rate) to grow the economy and create sufficient jobs for everyone? The answer is "yes"...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 07:29:11 GMT[Loss of support - How much would one get in a dependency claim?] A reader wants to know who are the people that the law recognises as being entitled to make a dependency claim, or a claim for loss of support (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 02:48:04 GMT"If they [Singaporeans] were politically aware, the voters must have been much wiser," said the man who was warning the NTU undergrads of rifts that hinder progress. It was a snide reference to the electoral outcomes of GE 2011 and PE 2011, a divisive insinuation that voters have erred in their political judgement (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 02:21:16 GMTWhat can be done to unify the people of Singapore?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 02:01:21 GMTOf fast decision, of slow decision...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 01:58:09 GMT[Challenges facing the youths of Singapore] This article consists mainly of collective opinions and views shared on Mr Tan Kin Lian's FB page, on the challenges facing the youths of Singapore (Written by Rank Tan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 01:54:15 GMTCorrupt leadership is not the root cause of a country's problems but rather the effect of another greater problem, which is the 'corruption of knowledge' (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 01:48:23 GMT"Unlike The Straits Times, which allows only civil debate and riposte with editorial adjudication, Internet chatter is replete with uncivil name-calling.. " - Dr Yik Keng Yeong, ST Forum.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 01:42:58 GMTMr Lee Kuan Yew is now called "Former Prime Minister". This is a more dignified and appropriate title than Senior Minister or Minister Mentor. Mr Goh Chok Tong should also be called "Former Prime Minister" rather than Emeritius Senior Minister. Do you agree?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 01:31:31 GMTFormer MM Lee Kuan Yew cites the "constant bickering" that he observed in countries with two-party systems such as the U.S., U.K., France and Germany, saying that should S'pore experience a national divide, it will become "just another ordinary country, with the same problems" (don't miss Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 01:25:10 GMTPlaywright Alfian Sa'at: I declare a moratorium on responding to any more of LKY's pronouncements. It is... increasingly clear that his 'hard truths' [his belief in eugenics, tribalism, etc] are not empirical observations...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 01:18:19 GMTWhen Lehman bonds and High Notes turned out to be lemons, many investors suffered huge losses. Last week, the U.S. govt took up a suit.. What if banks and financial institutions were found guilty of selling snake oil or fraudulent products, or guilty of fraudulent practices? Would banks and financial institutions here also be found guilty for selling snake oil as well? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 01:05:27 GMT[FOR CHEE SOON JUAN .. This poem is by Tan Jing Quee] On 8th May 2003, Chee's appeal against conviction for speaking in a public place without a permit was dismissed by the CJ Yong Pung How and therefore faces a bankruptcy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 00:39:16 GMTLibya is braced for further bloodshed after negotiations between rebel troops and Gaddafi loyalists over the surrender of a town where it is believed the tyrant may be hiding broke down (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 06 Sep 2011 00:31:09 GMTBy angling the story [SDP's new committee under scrutiny] as a tussle between 'moderates' and 'activists', Straits Times may have cast all activists as extremists.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 23:12:43 GMT[Beware of political opportunists online] ...unlike The Straits Times, which allows only civil debate and riposte with editorial adjudication, Internet chatter is replete with uncivil name-calling, where contrary ideas are shouted down by threatening claques of naysayers and any meaningful exchange of opinions is not possible. It is no wonder the blogosphere artificially amplifies pessimism, negativism and nihilism.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 23:03:31 GMT[Give power to cancel eligibility cert] 'Let electoral college choose the president' offered some useful insights on the politics that marred the recent PE. To protect dignity of the presidential office, the authorities may also consider vesting the PEC with right to withdraw COE from any candidate who persists in seeking to run for an office that does not exist, and treat it as collateral damage for his own political goals.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 22:59:03 GMT[Don't take a step backwards] Last Saturday's commentary: 'Let electoral college choose the president'... Requiring a citizen to be a member of a business group or civil society organisation in order to have a say - and for most, an indirect say - in the nation's leadership is discriminatory and undermines Singapore's democracy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 22:50:15 GMT[Electoral college not the solution] ...the commentary by my friends Ho Kwon Ping and Janadas Devan on the PE: 'Let electoral college choose the president'.. I disagree with the solution they have offered. A panicked reaction to the current noise level will not help.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 22:44:36 GMT[Why 3-day wait for an SMS?] On Aug 28, I received 10 messages at one go. The problem was that the first SMS was dated Aug 25. Ironically, it was an adSMS from SingTel, my provider. I have posted my experience on some online forums, and it seems my complaint is not an isolated case (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 22:08:06 GMT[Too long a wait to unsubscribe to SMS marketing alerts] The unsubscribe process takes 10 business days. When translated into the calendar week, it would be 14 days; factor in any public holiday, it could be half a month (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 22:03:22 GMTCustomers just want their money back (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 22:00:17 GMTYaacob Ibrahim clarifies childrens' citizenship.. regrets that there are some who consider innocent children to be fair game in political attacks..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 21:56:46 GMT[Queries to Singapore Immigration & Checkpoint Authority] In view of Dr Yaacob's own revelation that his children will hold dual citizenship up till 18 years old by virtue of the fact that his wife is an American citizen, I have sent in the following queries to ICA...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 14:30:30 GMTLee Kuan Yew refutes WikiLeaks claim [103 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 13:08:04 GMT[Lee Kuan Yew denies venom] This WikiLeak-cable incident (and Lee's denial) is very telling in the way it reveals a serious flaw in the govt's basis for managing the religious landscape.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 11:21:33 GMT[S'porean Values Version 4.6] Regardless, Minister Yaacob's comments have raise a pertinent issue. What exactly are S'porean Values? If S'poreans do not even know what these values are, how will the new citizens learn about them? Make up their own?...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 07:15:55 GMTFirst thing they promised, last thing they do...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 07:12:00 GMT[Will there be a difference if the leaks by WikiLeaks were made before GE2011 and PE2011?] Why do we need the Americans to confirm the rumours?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 06:36:30 GMT[photos] Parents of freshmen students sleep in Uni's gymhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 05:34:59 GMTA growing number of parents are choosing to let their children receive an education at home rather than attend public schools. Some parents think their children cannot realize the happiness of learning, acquire useful knowledge effectively, and master learning for a modern society through the current methods taught in schools (China Daily)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 05:26:14 GMT[WikiLeaks : Govt does not want more S'poreans to have university education... ] In the next few postings, I'll go through the Wiki-Leaks revelations, and explain each one in greater detail.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 05:15:27 GMTJulian Assange, the man behind WikiLeakshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 05:11:06 GMT[Lee Kuan Yew refutes WikiLeaks claim that he called Islam 'venomous'] "I looked up MFA's filenote of the meeting. Nowhere does it record me describing Islam as 'venomous', nor did I say anything which could have given that impression."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 05:04:36 GMTIf you have a message for President Tony Tan, what will you say?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 01:40:51 GMTThe policy of pricing HDB flats according to affordability is like pricing HDB flats according to how much the people have in their CPF savings. This logic can be applied to the ever increasing medical costs. Medical fees and housing prices - as they are affordable - will keep going up because there are money in the CPF savings (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 01:31:40 GMTDr Yaacob expressed confidence that new citizens will embrace these values, and help enlarge the common spaces that help to bind the people.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 01:17:42 GMTYaacob to new citizens: Uphold S'porean values [145 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 05 Sep 2011 01:14:00 GMTI am shocked by what political scientists passed off as prescient commentary in last month's PE. Dr Derek da Cunha stated that 'online chatter' was irrelevant to May 7 GE and Aug 27 PE. Really? 'Online chatter' was how PAP discerned how unhappy S'poreans were with policies, personnel, and politicking in the GE. We need leaders.. What we don't need are political scientists who offer no clues (Anand Vathiyar, ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 23:26:42 GMTWriters write. Teachers teach. Opposition MPs oppose. The logic is simple and irrefutable. Perhaps certain members of the public are offended that their MPs are not allowed to be advisers and represent their interests in PA. But these people will have to live with their vote at the recent GE (Letter from Yee Jun Xian)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 23:12:46 GMT[Singapore International Storytelling Festival] The oral tradition of storytelling is being revived to help heal the pains of the modern world (Elaine Ee, CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 23:04:37 GMTWho better to "critique" PA's information package than Opposition MPs, unless PA is interested only to "sell" policies to the public and not actually help them to stay informed? (Letter from Charles Poon, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 22:54:00 GMTMr Dennis Distant: 'Rescinding a penalty', suggested that I should have withdrawn, and speculated that a different candidate would have been elected president.. (Tan Kin Lian, ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 22:26:40 GMTYour Guide to Which Banks Are Getting Sued, Why, and For How Much (businessinsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 22:21:10 GMTIf the median salary of a S'porean is $50,000, how much should a minister earn?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 18:19:02 GMT[The IAAF 2011 World Championships in Daegu, South Korea] How we won the story..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 18:14:21 GMTHow quickly the wick burns for PM Lee and his party before S'poreans' patience runs out will very much depend on what changes and measures are introduced by his govt - in the next 5 years. The personal challenge to PM Lee, however, is in whether he can resist becoming the one thing his father has always sneered at and abhorred... (Andrew Loh, PublicHouse)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 18:02:52 GMTIn justifying the appointment of "only PAP members", Ooi Hui Mei first replied on behalf of Yam Ah Mee. She's now deeper in the sewage trying to mitigate the damage by replying on behalf of Lim Swee Say. As it confirms (double confirm?) that we are paying taxes for PA to help PAP divide and rule S'pore, I doubt she'll write another piece on behalf of Lee Hsien Loong (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 17:49:05 GMT[2 rivals, 2 gentlemen, 1 community] Critics would certainly advise caution in accepting that gestures between Mr Charles Chong and Mr Yee Jenn Jong are representative of their respective parties' positions.. but nonetheless, the friendly cooperation between the two shows what is possible, even as the PA continues to stubbornly and unconvincingly stick to its partisan position when it comes to serving the community.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 17:39:32 GMTDuring the chaos of the 9/11 attacks, where almost 3,000 people died, nearly 100 loyal search and rescue dogs and their brave owners scoured Ground Zero for survivors. Now, 10 years on, just 12 of these heroic canines survive.. (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 17:31:54 GMTPotential foreign investors in the sector range from big hospital groups in the West to private-equity funds looking for profits from turning around loss-making Chinese hospitals. Other beneficiaries would be the pioneers who already operate the roughly 100 foreign-invested clinics and hospitals in China, such as Parkway Holdings of S'pore (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 17:21:41 GMT[Largest Protest in Israel held on Saturday] Singaporeans have many more reasons to be angry... more reasons to protest... but we don't. We won't, and don't know how. But it is a mistake to interpret this obedience as a lack of anger.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 17:12:26 GMTI was pleasantly surprised to receive an email invitation by a resident of Jalan Bintang Tiga in Opera Estate for their annual street party. MP Charles Chong was there too. I had met him several times since GE2011... when we bumped into one another at events, we would compare notes on feedback by residents (Joo Chiat Today)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 14:19:37 GMTMandatehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 13:59:22 GMTThe victors in both the GE and PE have rightly talked of unity, but it is unclear how such unity might be achieved. Yet there is also a simple solution to this problem: The introduction of local govt elections. Elected local govt might be felt to introduce inefficiencies, but it has 3 key advantages.. [Philip Holden teaches at University Scholars Program at NUS, and is a PR] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 13:56:23 GMT[Switzerland has until Tuesday to hand over info] The U.S. is pushing for Switzerland to hand over thousands more bank client names - tax cheats - as it did last year when it allowed UBS to bend bank secrecy and reveal the details of around 4,450 clients, to avoid criminal charges (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 11:48:04 GMTDecisive Victory.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 11:42:55 GMTYP played limited role in cultivating next generation of leaders. PAP's sourcing of candidates mimicked those of academic and corporate entities in casting a wider net to hopefully capture future leaders outside its organisation. Another unexpected but relevant source of PAP candidates -- the ones who have been co-opted. Prime examples were V Balakrishnan and Raymond Lim (Chan Jia Hui, New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 11:04:08 GMTWikiLeaks: "PAP MP Chong admitted PAP had not succeeded in recruiting a number of "high-flying" business leaders to run. In fact, PAP had to reach down to some of its 2nd- and 3rd-tier candidates to fill out its ticket. Those new candidates will all run in GRCs helmed by higher profile ministers."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 10:49:37 GMTAnti-Gaddafi forces are closing in on Bani Walid from 3 sides, warning Gaddafi loyalists to surrender or be attacked. The desert town hit the headlines last month as rumors spread that 2 of Col Gaddafi's sons had travelled through it as they fled south from Tripoli (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 08:27:52 GMT'Let us work together, as Singaporeans, for a better future for ourselves and our future generations, and to make Singapore our best home.' (StraitsTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 05:19:50 GMTOur local journalists are very well trained and qualified, coming from some of the best universities in the West. With a freer press, the quality of their reports and the media they represent would be a totally different story than the current pathetic state.. We have so much talent but not put to good use. Isn't that a pity? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 05:12:44 GMT[Tips on critical illness insurance] A critical illness policy is one of the most popular policies, but it is not well understood. Everybody will have to suffer a critical illness one day, and that will lead to death. But, is insurance the best answer? Read this article, to learn about how to make the right decision...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 04:43:05 GMTA walk around Geylang Serai during Ramadan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 04:17:29 GMT10 years ago, 19 hijackers snatched control of 4 passenger jets -- see how America's day of tragedy unfolded (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 04:03:02 GMT[Interesting WikiLeaks Revelations about Singapore... ] If you find anything else interesting, please post in the comments section and I'll add it to this posting.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 02:49:56 GMT[The traitor who sold our nation to immigrants] 'Mahathir allowed thousands of Filipinos and Indonesian to become citizens in exchange for votes. The same is happening in the peninsula now.'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 02:47:54 GMTAccountability.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 04 Sep 2011 02:44:43 GMT"... it is not possible to appoint Opposition MPs as advisers because we cannot ask Opposition MPs to help the govt to connect better with the people." (220 comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 23:52:01 GMTWikiLeaks: "... 'defamatory' statements [Dr Chee Soon Juan] is accused of making were exceedingly mild and would hardly have attracted notice -- much less legal action -- in any other "first world" jurisdiction..."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 23:44:02 GMT[Govt stifles entrepreneurship, higher education] Amongst other things, it was revealed that.. GLCs control 60 per cent of the S'pore economy .. As of Feb 2007, only 23 per cent of S'porean students who enrol in Pri 1 attend university .. - A senior MOE official told US diplomats there were no plans to encourage S'poreans to get a higher education.. (TheSatay club)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 23:34:05 GMT[Journalists frustrated by PAP press controls] SPH, which is the leading publisher of newspapers in S'pore, has been chaired by a succession of PAP loyalists and stalwarts, including former President S R Nathan, former cabinet minister Lim Kim San, and most recently by current President Tony Tan (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 23:25:37 GMTThe Aug 27 PE was the most keenly contested ever with 4 candidates; and won narrowly with 35.2 per cent by Dr Tony Tan, who was sworn in Thursday. We present here views on the election, including a call to do away with direct voting of a president in the first place [Ho Kwon Ping & Janadas Devan]News Clipshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 23:10:31 GMT[Trade Arithmetic for David Brooks] The New York Times has been sponsoring a competition between Thomas Friedman and David Brooks to see who can say more silly things about the economy.. (cepr)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 23:04:46 GMTYale economist Robert Shiller predicted the bursting of the tech and housing bubbles. What does this visionary behavioral economist, author and market innovator see in our future now? (blip.tv)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 23:00:30 GMTProtest leaders called it "the moment of truth" for the grassroots movement that has swollen since July into a countrywide mobilization of Israel's middle class. "Israel will no longer be the same. Our new Israel demands real change in the priorities of its govt." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 21:54:56 GMTMany Israelis are angry at the high cost of housing, food, education and health care. One banner read: "An entire generation wants a future" and another "The land of milk and honey, but not for everybody". Many other countries look enviously at Israel's growing economy but people here feel the wealth has not been shared. Many of the protesters are from a middle class... (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 21:41:17 GMTDo we need grassroots organisations, such as RCs, etc? Should the members be elected by the community or appointed by the Govt? Do we need an adviser for these organisations? Can they appoint several people to be advisers?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 12:37:49 GMTPolitical Accomplice (PA)...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 12:35:20 GMTThis article painting Tan Jee Say as a 'rebel' appeared in ST a day before cooling off day. When asked why, ST defended that the word "rebel" appeared in (inverted commas) " ".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 12:31:23 GMTAnother WikiLeaks mention: Some Cyclists are more Equal than Othershttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 12:24:11 GMTDear Straits Times: I refer to 1 Sept 2011 letter. Mr Tan Hian Meng asserts no governing party is obliged to help Opposition grow. Even so, no governing party is expected to use unfair and unscrupulous methods to stifle Opposition's growth. GRC, constant redrawing of electoral boundaries, HDB upgrading, and stranglehold on print and TV media are examples of such unfair and unscrupulous methods.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 08:30:18 GMTTemasek and GIC have recently released their annual reports. Both reports do not give sufficient info to satisfy the public's thirst for transparency. Both entities have constraints in their ability to be fully transparent. I propose to restructure the funds into 3 new funds to resolve these constraints, so that full transparency can be achieved.. (Eric Tan Heng Chong, PublicHouse)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 05:29:41 GMTWikiLeaks: "The SWFs source new funds to invest from S'pore's private and govt savings. S'pore has one of the highest savings rates in the world, with a gross savings ratio of 47.6 percent of GDP in 2008. The govt keeps the difference between what the SWFs earn, and what it owes on the S'pore securities held by CPF."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 05:21:22 GMT[Evidence that Opposition helps promote Govt policies - SPP] With these photos, we hope to show how careless and thoughtless PA was while drafting their letter, with the implication that Oppositions MPs would not help promote govt policies and programs (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 05:12:34 GMTThe civil servants are people and citizens of the country. They must not be coerced or implicated by the power of the day to act against their conscience or against the people. The people and civil servants should not be politicized against their will (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 05:06:36 GMTDear Straits Times: I refer to Mr Chen Junyi's reply to my letter. Mr Chen's suggestion, that Mr Tan Kin Lian might be the 2nd choice for 95% S'poreans, means that it is possible that Mr Tan Kin Lian enjoys much wider support amongst S'poreans than Dr Tony Tan. This will only reinforce the belief that our current system has failed to give us the best candidate..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 04:07:44 GMT[Half-Truths about Life Insurance] An insurance agent is taught many ways to convince a customer to buy life insurance, and even if a customer suspects he is not being given a good deal. Here are some half-truths told by agents, and what the correct situations really are. Read this FAQ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 03:59:40 GMT[WikiLeaks Singapore LINK Is Here] FOUND THIS... very busy reading weekend.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 02:57:28 GMT[WikiLeaks: Minister's wife is an American, and his two children are American citizens] ???http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 01:32:51 GMTGood morning friends, I am on my way to thank all of you for your support.. First stopover @ Ayer Rajah Market.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 01:05:45 GMT[Elite-grassroots split in PAP] After a poor election showing 3 months ago, a split has become evident in PAP rank-and-file between the younger and older generation on how far and fast reforms should proceed (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 00:29:53 GMT[US Govt plans to file law suit against major banks] This is an interesting development. The lawsuits are for misrepresenting the risks in the mortgage-backed securities.. and led to heavy investment losses for S'pore investors following the collapse of Lehman Brothers. The US Govt alleged the banks failed in their duty [Reader's comment: US govt thinks their banks failed in their duties. Our govt thinks its banks had done nothing wrong. Funny right?]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 00:22:34 GMTThe coming lawsuits are a stark reminder that even though Lehman Brothers collapsed 3 years ago, "the legal fallout is mounting." Angry investors are still trying to recoup money.. (slate)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 00:12:21 GMTChua Chin Hon, who is currently U.S. bureau chief for ST, says local reporters are "eager to produce more investigative and critical reporting, but they are stifled by editors who have been groomed to tow the line. None of them has the courage.." Chua pointed out how there is extensive media coverage before the govt intends to push out a certain policy. He cited how during the 2008 collapse of Lehman brothers.. (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 03 Sep 2011 00:09:14 GMTI refer to Mr Belmont Lay's article describing PE 2011 candidate Mr Tan Kin Lian's campaign failure. The writer has given some strong opinions. As such, I thought it is relevant for me to share my personal opinion of Mr Tan Kin Lian and his campaign in the recent PE (Alex Lew Yan Liang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 23:58:43 GMTSome people asked if I would have withdrawn if I had reliable info that my support was less than 10%. The answer is that this is a moot point as we did not have that info. As already shared [above], we believed that on nomination day, the voters were still largely uncommitted (New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 23:55:46 GMT'Mr Tan Kin Lian could have saved $48,000 and, more critically, would have been instrumental in letting another candidate receive his share of the vote, had he not stood for the election.' (Denis Distant - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 23:47:48 GMT[A new approach towards grassroots organisations] Many letters have been written about the role of grassroots organisations "to assist in implementing govt policies", and whether an Opposition MP can be appointed to be adviser. After 50 years, it is time to rethink the role and structure of the grassroots organisations. I wish to put forward the following ideas.. What are your views?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 23:40:07 GMTRetaining a direct election process for the post creates expectations amongst the electorate that the EP can be an alternative centre of power. I strongly feel the electoral process ought to be modified to better reflect the apolitical nature of the presidency [Koh Choon Hwee, 23, is editor of Kent Ridge Common] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 23:27:42 GMTMinisterial salary review expected to be completed by year end [82 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 23:19:10 GMTI refer to recent letters relating to the issue of neutrality of PA. It is not possible to appoint Opposition MPs as advisers.. we cannot ask Opposition MPs to help the Govt to connect better with the people. Nor can we reasonably expect them to help the Govt explain, implement or improve its policies. This is especially true of policies which they oppose.. (Ooi Hui Mei - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 21:58:15 GMT[WikiLeaks: U.S. State Dept's views on Dr Chee Soon Juan] "While PAP has once again demonstrated that its power cannot be challenged, using the power of intimidation also carries costs, as S'poreans wonder why such overwhelming force needed to be applied to one who has never posed any serious political threat."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 14:20:37 GMTWikiLeaks: "PAP makes full use of the powers of incumbency to hamper the Opposition. In 2001, it called a snap election with only 16 days notice, and at the same time announced a new electoral map which had been extensively gerrymandered."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 14:15:43 GMT[Why Opposition MPs can't be Advisers to PA grassroots organisations] A search of the words "opposition party" in Wiki shows the following: opposition (parliamentary) - "a form of political opposition." - Sear Hock Rong, Chairman, Eunos Community Club Youth Executive Committee.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 14:12:58 GMTWikiLeaks: U.S. State Department's views on Young PAP.. "is pursuing closer ties with the Chinese Communist Youth League."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 14:00:32 GMTWikiLeaks: U.S. State Department's views on Muslim MPs in S'porehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 13:54:38 GMT[The car was armoured like a tank. But that wasn't enough to save Gaddafi's son Khamis when the rebels took their vengeance] One son dead and buried. Two others, the wife and a daughter, escaped; three more sons and, of course, the old man himself, Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, still to be captured or killed. The deadline - to surrender or face military action - was due to run out tomorrow morning..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 10:34:31 GMTChua Chin Hon, who is currently U.S. bureau chief for ST, say local reporters are "eager to produce more investigative and critical reporting, but they are stifled by editors who have been groomed to tow the line. None of them has the courage.." Chua pointed out how there is extensive media coverage before the govt intends to push out a certain policy. He cited how during the 2008 collapse of Lehman brothers.. (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 10:17:17 GMT[Ministerial salary review to be completed before year end] As announced earlier by PM, the revised salary for the president will commence from the new term on September 1, while former president SR Nathan had earlier informed PM Lee he would adopt the new salary from 21 May 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 10:05:04 GMT[Medishield beyond age 85] Medishield insurance - provided by CPF - stops at age 85. So far, MOH is unwilling to extend Medishield beyond age 85. So, what can the elderly consumers do?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:55:38 GMT'Drawing on our reserves should only be an absolutely last resort' - Lee Hsien Loong. I also remember Leong Sze Hian saying that during Nathan's terms, the reserves were used for something like 29 times. And one of the reasons was for SERS, en bloc resettlement of HDB flats. True or not? If SERS could justify for use of the reserves, what else can't? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:50:42 GMT[A person's perspective of minimum wage] I asked my blog reader, Hang Lian, about how minimum wage impacts businesses and people in New Zealand. Here is his reply..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:42:57 GMTIn a survey 2 months ago, many young people said their main concern is to get a job that pays well. What are the obstacles to achieving this? Is it competition from foreigners or the attitude of employers? Do male citizens face additional challenge due to NS?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:40:07 GMT"In the near term, the Govt of S'pore is planning for a population of closer to 5 million. About half of this figure will comprise immigrants, mainly from China and India." - Latest WikiLeaks cable on S'pore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:36:34 GMTDifficult Situations, Famous Replieshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:32:18 GMTThe First Past The Post electoral system breaks down when there are more than 2 candidates. Marquis de Condorcet, the French mathematician who was also one of the pioneers in contemporary political science, explained why in 1785 (Owen Tan, New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:27:42 GMT[Don't make the PE only for the Elites and English-speaking voters] Readers of Wanbao were disappointed and had complained to the newspaper. The non English-speaking voters are in fact the strongest supporters of Tony Tan. Is this arrangement intentionally to deny this group of voters full PE2011 info?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:11:47 GMT[TAN JING QUEE - A leader of his generation] 1977 saw the arrest and imprisonment without trial of at least 28 people (mostly professionals) in S'pore, under the ISA. They were labelled "Euro-Communists". Those arrested included 4 lawyers. Among them was Tan Jing Quee. There would have been 5...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:02:04 GMTNTUC chief Mr Lim Swee Say may not realise it but he just admitted NTUC has not been an independent voice all these decades. Independent from what, one may ask? (Singapore Democrats)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 08:57:16 GMTI am on WikiLeaks toohttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 07:20:14 GMT(Reader's comment: I hope our 'civil servants' can come out of their shells and be engaged with society. The OLD civil servant mentality cannot go on] SingaporeNoteshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 03:18:30 GMT[Underplanning is in MOH's DNA] The saga continues.. Our public hospitals are so full, they have to hire extra space from other institutions. The alternative would be to turn away emergency patients, again. I am not at all underestimating how difficult it is to get planning right. But the starting point must be to get the projections right. In this respect, the record is rather less than sterling.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 03:00:56 GMT[Low default risk in ETF] Dear Mr Tan: I am a retiree. I intend to buy STI ETFs with my savings instead of buying annuities. I would also like your advice on what happens if we put our life savings into ETFs and the company behind it goes bust. Are there any other ETFs worth considering now? (TKL's reply...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 02:57:12 GMTRecently some politicians lost their seats and so their well paying jobs. Have they found work in the private sector or have they been employed in the public sector, or have they been appointed by the govt into jobs that are paid by the public coffers? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 02:52:25 GMTMs Serene Wong was wrong when she rebutted presidential candidate Tan Kin Lian's 'Make NS a privilege, not a burden'. The Govt is fully aware it is not a small load [1st-generation naturalised male citizens are not required to perform NS]. I applaud Mr Tan for standing up for NSmen (Michael Ang - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 01:38:26 GMT[Celebrating Teachers' Day: Increasing Appreciation From Students And Parents] If students and parents become more responsive and engaged, and societal respect for the teaching profession does not dwindle, the foundation of our education system will remain sturdy for years to come.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 01:12:03 GMTThis is my "Message to the young people of Singapore", as contained in the final TV broadcast ....http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 01:05:13 GMTIf the EP is nothing more than an overpaid, politically biased watchman with limited custodial powers that protects the ruling party more than it serves the well-being of the citizens, perhaps we have been foolishly humouring ourselves by casting lofty aspirations and accrediting undeserved sanctity to the office (Perry Tan, PublicHouse)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 00:59:02 GMTWe were given hints of areas where he did well.. Nicole Seah revealing that he did "particularly" well in some areas within the east of S'pore... if a return to opposition politics is on the cards, data on areas of strong support from the PE will be useful (Chan Jia Hui, New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 00:43:59 GMTThe new passing grade...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 00:36:55 GMTMany of those who did not vote for Dr Tony Tan told me they would have switched to support him, had it been a clear 2-candidate fight between Dr Tans. Nevertheless, Saturday's PE results can be viewed positively that PAP has regained people's trust and confidence after May's GE. Tony Tan and Cheng Bock, who were closely linked with PAP, garnered 70 per cent of the electoral votes.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 00:35:03 GMTAlmost all PAP MPs [Today spoke to] agreed with PA's position... Mountbatten MP noted the Opposition has their own platforms to reach out to residents, while CCK GRC MP said there is nothing to stop Opposition MPs from setting up their own community organisations (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 00:23:48 GMTPA, which some members of the public view to be partisan, is a stat board under MCYS. However, with the EP meant to be above the politics, it would make sense for PA to come under the President's Office (Letter from Isaac Koh - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 00:16:30 GMTReading the concession statements of the candidates Monday, I am encouraged by the gentlemanly way each of the 3 candidates accepted defeat. Dr Tony Tan was magnanimous in victory. By publicly soliciting and welcoming Dr Tan Cheng Bock's input...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 00:12:42 GMT[Thank you, President Nathan] Today, we salute Mr S R Nathan and pay tribute to a remarkable individual, president extraordinaire, and a people's president much loved and adored by all.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 02 Sep 2011 00:08:57 GMTWhile the legislature and judiciary are key institutions of a democracy, they become dormant if they lack accountability and fail to meet public expectations. That is when activists in civil society step forward to fulfil the functions these institutions fail to practise. When the govt was reluctant to agree to its ambitious scope, Mr Hazare resorted to fasting to spearhead this demand.. (Atanu Roy - STForum online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 23:56:34 GMTBy issuing the Indian govt an ultimatum to pass the Bill, Mr Hazare stifled all forms of improvisations that could be added to the Jan Lokpal Bill. At such a juncture, Mr Hazare has created an agitated political scene where reason and intellect have been compromised (Nandakumaran Muthiah - STForum online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 23:48:45 GMTCalls for the removal of the president and 3 other committee members of SICC, one of the nation's premier golf and social clubs, has led to 4 people concerned not to stand for re-election at the coming AGM on Sept 16 (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 22:57:51 GMT[Why some people are always better off than the rest] While the govt has been proudly boasting its achievements, the policy makers have failed to realize it has achieved growth at the cost of other privately-run local businesses. Mathematically, if GLCs grew faster than the economy, then it would have taken a larger slice of the economic pie (Kumaran Pillai - PublicHouse)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 22:50:15 GMTThis Saturday, September 3, Singapore will host Asia's 1st championship match between 16 world and national mixed martial arts champions. CNNGo's Kate Hodal sneaks a peek during one of the training sessions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 22:43:38 GMTCouncil for Estate Agents said dummy ads, which advertised fictional properties or properties which did not have the owner's consent, remained the most serious problem. "CEA would like to advise the public not to respond to flyers with no details of registration number of salesperson and licence number of estate agent," (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 22:39:02 GMTIn the face of the economic challenges in the Western economies, private home buyers in S'pore are expected to be cautious. Perhaps, prospective buyers should use this "window period" to do their homework, critically evaluate choices and buy at opportune timing.. Home buyers should also look for micro market opportunities.. (Ong Kah Seng, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 22:33:26 GMTThe debate over COVs for HDB flats continues. However, we have to recognise that in coming up with a solution to the COV issue, we are only treating the symptoms and not the root of the problem. The problem with COVs may go away by itself if there is less imbalance between demand and supply (Colin Tan, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 21:59:51 GMTA U.S. court case has brought to light details of alleged CIA "rendition flights" that transported terror suspects to CIA-run secret prisons around the world and the U.S. detention camp at Guantanamo Bay [Wikipedia: "Extraordinary rendition" is the abduction and extrajudicial transfer of a person from one nation to another] BBChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 21:54:35 GMTAnalysts are baffled over the involvement of the People's Association in the current political arena at a time when people are already clamouring for a more level political field. "It can only benefit the Opposition party which will come across as the underdog," said a PAP grassroots leader (Seah Chiang Nee - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 16:09:09 GMT[Financial Planning Talk by Sam Goh] Here is a new financial planning talk organised by FISCA. The speaker is Sam Goh, who has experience in delivering this talk to several govt agencies. Do attend his talk and widen your knowledge. Details can be found here...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 13:10:07 GMT['Curbs lifted on events at PA sites' - ST; Aug 24, 2011] This means that MPs from the Opposition parties can now be invited to these activities in their personal capacity. (There are two caveats though: One, the events must be of a 'non-political nature'. Two, the lifting of the restriction applies only to events organised by non-grassroots organisations)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 13:06:24 GMT['Adviser over MP' raises many questions -- Who should manage lift upgrading at the constituency level?] To press home the point that Opposition MPs have no right to manage LUP, the MND press secretary said in a reply to WP MP Low Thia Khiang: 'Mr Low is mistaken when he cites the 'will of the people' expressed in general elections.." (Oct 22, 2009, The Straits Times. By Sue-Ann Chia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 11:46:34 GMTThe younger set may not recall this, but way back in1983, Anson MP JBJ described being 'treated like a leper' by RC members, in spite of LKY's assurance that "we came out with this association [the PA] which enabled people not to identify with a political party but with the govt of the day." (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 09:46:18 GMT[Making the Ordinary Great: A Tribute to Teachers on Teachers' Day] Our education system today streams students.. Society places a lot of emphasis on picking winners. This Teachers' Day, do contemplate how we can make winners out of ordinary people.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 09:20:55 GMT[Danger for the property market] When interest rate increases in the future after Quantitative Easing is over.. The impact is more severe in a place like S'pore, where properties are financed on short term interest rates. Let me quote a simple example..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 09:12:58 GMT[Some Reflections on PE 2011] Can a PE ever be above politics? It can never be... After such a bruising election and a divisive result, can the president still be above politics? Can he still unify the nation? I wonder.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 09:09:06 GMTThe delay in returning [CPF] money to the people, the inflating of minimum sums in CPF and Medisave both means that owners are finding it more and more difficult to get in touch with their hard earned money. It is time to appoint an ombudsman to look into the people's lifetime savings and find ways to return to them, while the money is still there (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 03:45:33 GMT["Unrealistic" to hope for reform with PAP - Chee Soon Juan] TOC catches up with SDP Sec-Gen for a post-GE interview.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 03:41:22 GMT[Because "Almost 40%" sounds better than 38.7%] Please lah, ST. Want to spin also don't spin until so obvious lah. Straits Times Headline: "Tony Tan gets almost 40% of the overseas votes". Cheekily, TOC had this headline: "60 per cent of overseas voters voted against Tony Tan"..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 03:37:52 GMT[This letter was not published in the Straits Times] Let elected MPs do their duty - Tan Kin Lianhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 03:03:00 GMT[Dear Prime Minister, Are Singaporeans Fooked?] Dear Prime Minister, If PA has the audacity to write this letter below, and SPH finds it wise to publish it in the Straits Times, I think we are fooked!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 02:56:45 GMT[Building Nations, Dividing People] If it ever were a nation builder, PA is one no more. Instead, it insists on continuing its historic mission of promoting govt policies, and blurring the govt and the party, without adjusting to political realities. PA is a relic of the past. It's time to consign it to history.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 02:54:55 GMT[PA created to "blur line between Govt and PAP" - SPP] Opposition MPs will always support programs for the benefit of S'poreans, but will vigorously oppose those that abuse public funds to advance the interests of PAP. By choosing not to work with duly elected Opposition MPs, the PA is confirming it is working for the interest of PAP, not S'pore (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 02:50:26 GMT[Has PA offered the Opposition an olive branch?] WP leader Low Thia Khiang, an elected MP for Aljunied GRC, has stated that he is ready to work with any group, including PA, to serve residents, in an interview with The Straits Times ('WP sets up Aljunied grassroots body'; June 14).http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 01:06:33 GMT[Social cohesion goes beyond cooking contests] Social cohesion cannot be achieved by merely organising cooking competitions and lantern festivals. The inter-human relationship in any given society is a complex equation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 01:03:43 GMT[PA should reset its attitude] PA has said Opposition MPs cannot be advisers to grassroots bodies because they 'cannot be expected' to help promote govt policies and programs. This reflects a narrow and outdated view..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 01:01:21 GMTPA should give better reasonshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 00:58:06 GMTWhy are PA's appointed advisers exclusively from the PAP?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 00:56:16 GMTA candidate who is elected MP should be considered as part of the Govt, regardless of political affiliation. If PA still wishes to regard itself as a neutral public institution, it will do well to regard the Govt as such. PA reply also noted the mission of its advisers is to help the Govt connect with people and bond the community. Who better to do so than an elected representative from the local community? (Chong Yew Mun - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 00:51:10 GMTBy preferring to work with candidates from PAP who have lost the previous election over sitting MPs elected by the people, PA is not giving citizens due respect. By working with PA in similar fashion, HDB is also not respecting the people. If we accept that our electoral system is one of first past the post, we must all respect the results, regardless of party affiliation (Dennis Tan - STForum online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 00:44:53 GMT[A worry if PA thinks political rather than people - Letter from Chan Chi Yung] .. [To serve residents is to respect their mandate - Letter from Nicholas Loh Huashan]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 00:34:48 GMTPA's role is to propagate and educate the people about govt policies, and to garner support for the Govt. Can we expect Opposition MPs to do that? It may seem unfair, but the reality is that no governing party is obliged to help the Opposition grow. In fact, it is reasonable to expect the governing party to weaken and demolish its rivals (Tan Hian Meng - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 00:27:56 GMTMP Janil Puthucheary, who sits on PA's board of management, said that as a statutory board, PA is "linked to govt policy" and the grassroots adviser has to believe in the overall thrust of the govt's approach. Opposition MPs fundamentally oppose the govt, and so would not always be in support of its policies and programs, he said (577 comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 01 Sep 2011 00:20:08 GMT[A detainee remembers (Part 3) by Tang Fong Har] All of us were promised early release if we cooperated with an appearance on state TV. Despite our full cooperation, (some of us had 2 or 3 recordings at the TV station), many of us were not released after the 30 days of interrogation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 23:59:49 GMT[Do S'poreans even look at their own fears?] Would playwright Tan Tarn How's new play, Fear of Writing, finally kickstart a reexamination of ourselves, as a starting point for a new look at our state and society, and ourselves?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 23:51:05 GMTThis Teachers' Day, I am honoured... All children can be educated if given a chance and the belief (Frances Ess - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 23:39:50 GMTSMRT has filed its defence in the $3.4-million lawsuit brought by the family of the Thai girl whose legs were severed after she fell onto the AMK MRT Station tracks in April. SMRT argues that the 15-year-old's "negligence" contributed to her falling "onto the tracks at the MRT station on her own accord" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 23:35:37 GMTLooking back at SBF's statement reported in "Send strong message on economic stability".. to suggest by implication or otherwise that S'poreans should favour the incumbent solely for the sake of political continuity is misguided. The results at GE 2011 have given the Govt a report card on its performance on those counts (Letter from Edwin Yeo - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 22:40:50 GMTI read Minister Yaacob Ibrahim's comment: "PE showed strong support for PAP". I urge govt leaders to speak cautiously on such matters. I believe in the judgement of S'poreans, and that we voted based on credentials of each candidate, neutral to political parties (Letter from Ivy Lam - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 22:35:21 GMTWe should respect president-elect Tony Tan even though he won by a small margin. As a whole, Dr Tony Tan and Dr Tan Cheng Bock garnered 70 per cent of overall votes. PAP nurtured these 2 men who are humble, honest and trustworthy (Daniel Chia - STForum online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 22:30:48 GMTOutgoing President Nathan says S'pore cannot have a "Presidency on the streets". The President's duties are defined by the Constitution, and people would not want the office to be so transparent that the value and prestige of the position is lost.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 22:22:42 GMT[A sentinel to good governance - Mr Nathan has had a key hand in defining how the EP should fulfil its functions] What is most visible to most people are ceremonial trappings of the office. But not visible at all is the exercise of EP's executive custodial powers. Hence, it is no surprise that many view EP as a white elephant. Yet, it is most unfair. Prez Nathan's track record of public service should inspire S'poreans to step forward and serve (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 22:04:39 GMTAllan Lichtman, the American University professor whose election formula has correctly called every president since Ronald Reagan's 1984 re-election, has a belated birthday present for Barack Obama: Rest easy, your re-election is in the bag (USNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 21:53:12 GMTThe gold-plated cutlery and crystal champagne glasses, the Versace and Armani suits and rows of unworn designer shoes, are all that remain at the luxurious seaside compounds of the children of Muammar Gaddafi. The fancy beach villas are testimony to the fact that the Gaddafis not only ruled Libya, they owned it, and treated its oil wealth as their personal patrimony (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 21:47:12 GMTThe world's 'highest' Ferris wheel' is set to open for business today on top of a 1,480ft tower in China - with passengers riding in see-through pods. Built on the 450-meter-high Canton Tower, known as the Guangzhou TV Tower, the amazing wheel consists of 16 pods holding a total of 96 fearless passengers (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 21:40:46 GMTExplore the rich history and customs of George Town in Penang (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 21:33:57 GMT[Dr Tan Cheng Bock, before and after the PE] We Cantonese call it, "Fall down also must grab a handful of sand".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 15:36:55 GMTStrong support for PAP based on PE results: Dr Yaacob Ibrahim [402 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 15:12:37 GMTSISV calls for COV data to be scrapped [This is a correct move. COV figures will only create expectations which may simply be unrealistic. COV itself probably cannot be scrapped but there is no reason to report and perpetuate it]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 15:10:25 GMTPM Lee's speech at a farewell reception for President Nathanhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 14:25:29 GMTMr President, an important and unique role that you have is to be the custodian of the second key, on decisions concerning reserves, key appointments and a few other areas. You worked closely with the Govt to refine the rules regarding the President's custodial powers, in particular on a major Constitutional amendment to enable govt spending of earnings from past reserves on a longer-term, sustainable basis (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 14:02:58 GMTMr Prime Minister, I am humbled by the tribute you have paid to me. I want to thank you for all the kind words about me and my contributions, though I cannot say with certainty that some will not consider me undeserving of such compliments.. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 13:57:47 GMT[Why Opposition MPs can't be advisers to grassroots bodies] Dear Ms Ooi: I refer to your 31 Aug 2011 ST letter. Since your reasoning involves connecting to the govt and not to PAP, it is imperative that PA appoints someone who can connect us to the govt, and not to PAP. Suitable persons would be govt officials or civil servants... Appointing PAP candidates with no govt posts as grassroots advisers would be fundamentally wrong.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 13:29:37 GMT[Guard against an activist president] Dear ST: I refer to 31 Aug 2011 letter. Mr Jayaraman says S'pore got the best man for the president's post. 65% of S'poreans disagree with him. Mr Jayaranman seems to imply that only those who had voted for Dr Tony Tan had asked themselves the basic question. Mr Jayaranman is mistaken. There has been anecdotal evidence that many of our elderly voted Dr Tony Tan blindly without question.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 13:16:34 GMT[Devise a more robust process] Dear ST: I refer to 31 Aug 2011 letter. Mr Paul Heng claims that if results of our PE had turned out differently, it could spell the beginning of the end of S'pore's success story. Mr Heng may not be aware, the beginning of the end may well have already begun some years back when PAP started running S'pore like a corp. Underlying Mr Heng's claim is his blind faith that it was PAP that brought success to S'pore..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 13:08:51 GMT[Reducing the social divide in Singapore] This article, written by poly student Terence Tan, summarises the views posted by readers on TKL's Facebook. It also contains some of the writer's personal view.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 11:21:54 GMT[S'poreans want an enhancement of powers for the future President] ..even the msm Lianhe Zaobao, in its editorial on 30-8-11, is able to see this trend coming and advises the PAP Govt that it cannot put off for long the desire of S'poreans for an enhancement of the president's powers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 11:12:11 GMT[Back to square one -- the only unifying Singapore President is a non-contested and parliament-appointed President] Yes. Perhaps, WP is right. Perhaps, JBJ was right when he opposed the EP proposal. It is better to take the 'E' away from EP and return it to its original ceremonial role.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 11:02:53 GMTThe PE result shows that S'pore's political center has grown larger over the years, and will continue to grow larger. This is due in no small part to the Generational Shift Effect, and the die-off of a large part of PAP's core base. In other words, the electorate will more closely resemble that of developed countries..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 10:54:19 GMTIf PA "really" wanted to foster unity and bond S'poreans together, they either come clean [and admit there is some political affiliation] or stop being so biased. They need to learn they can't "bully" S'poreans into unity by forcibly trying to force the dominance of one particular party on everyone (KirstenHan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 10:44:25 GMTA decision to expand the industry has been wildly successful. It looks set to earn 5 times more than Las Vegas. But the gambling boom also has its downside. One academic said the "honeymoon period", when there were only benefits, was now over. "In the past, there was a myth that people from Macau wouldn't gamble. But we've found local people as well as visitors go to the casinos." (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 10:35:44 GMTThis guy was a SAF scholar [like PM Lee], he studied at Cambridge [like PM Lee], he received training at an overseas US military institute [like PM Lee]. Apparently his weakness was gambling. He had reportedly racked up about $100K in debts on board cruise ships, the floating casinos of choice for those who prefer not to be spotted at the land-based MBS or RWS dens of iniquity [built by PM Lee] SingaporeNoteshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 10:23:36 GMTI refer to Mr Belmont Lay's article describing PE 2011 candidate Mr Tan Kin Lian's campaign failure. The writer has given some strong opinions. As such, I thought it is relevant for me to share my personal opinion of Mr Tan Kin Lian and his campaign in the recent PE (Alex Lew Yan Liang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 06:07:59 GMTSome people asked if I would have withdrawn if I had reliable info that my support was less than 10%. The answer is that this is a moot point as we did not have that info. As already shared [above], we believed that on nomination day, the voters were still largely uncommitted (New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 06:01:05 GMTThe Rise and Success of PAP Internet Bridgadehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 05:50:46 GMT[A facetious letter from the PA] This is how you ensure the 40% who did not vote for the ruling party continues to vote for any party OTHER than the ruling party. And for fair-minded voters who voted the ruling party to consider voting someone else. Good job, PA !http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 05:45:24 GMTThe Presidential Election of 2011: Paradoxes And Perils of a Politicised Role (catherinelim)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 03:14:53 GMT[The Presidential Election of 2011: Paradoxes And Perils of a Politicised Role] S'poreans who are seriously concerned about this grotesquely intractable issue of the EP's role must come to a sobering conclusion: As long as nothing is done to resolve the inherent paradoxes in the constitution, the future could see the following predicaments and troubling scenarios ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 02:48:46 GMT[Beware of investment scams] S'pore has a pro-business environment and adopts a "buyer beware" approach towards business dealings. I became aware of scams after the victims had written to me for my assistance. I wish to share some of these shady investments or scams with you..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 01:44:59 GMTHewlett Packard plans to crank out "one last run" of TouchPads. HP slashed the price of its tablet to $99, from $399 and $499, the weekend after announcing the TouchPad's demise on Aug 18. That ignited an online frenzy and long lines at retailers as bargain-hunters chased down a gadget that had been on store shelves just six weeks (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 01:31:53 GMTEven PAP supporters want more pluralism and transparency (Wall St Journal)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 01:25:52 GMTA close presidential election confirms the growing rift between the ruling party and the public (Garry Rodan - WallStreetJournal)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 01:18:19 GMTWhy was his conscience pricked and he has to make it public that his conscience is clear? In my view, Nathan is the most perfect President. No one can fault him for not doing his part as the EP, or overstepping his role to try to do things outside the Constitution.. only those who took too much and did too little should have to think about their conscience (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 01:00:12 GMTAfter 5 years, BBC correspondent Nick Bryant leaves Australia. He shares his thoughts.. (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 00:52:48 GMT[Today is Malaysia's National Day.. A wish list of freedoms] We still need the fundamental freedoms that every human being desires, especially freedom of speech and expression. Our foreparents understood 54 years ago that we had a fundamental right to freedom and self-determination (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 00:40:19 GMT[Active Citizenry In S'pore: Govt's Lethargy A Challenge] Increased levels of awareness have not brought about heightened involvement in on-the-ground activities, or the translation of virtual sentiments into tangible, implementable solutions for assorted issues.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 00:33:43 GMTSome said PAP got only 35% of the popular votes, some said 70%. I say 75%. The numbers are very interesting and alive, and can be interpreted anyway one wants to look at them. It may be flattery, self deception, cynicism, foolish thoughts and anything but the truth. It is an art for the spin doctors (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 00:30:44 GMTCONGRATULATIONS to Dr Tony Tan, who deserved to win last Saturday's presidential election. I offer Dr Tan my best wishes, and hope he will exercise his duties by working with the Govt, in the best interests of S'pore (Jeffrey Tan - STForum online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 00:16:28 GMT'The voters have spoken. To dismiss first-past-the-post as unfair holds no water.' (Bennie Cheok - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 00:11:27 GMT[Run-off system not practical] I DISAGREE with Reform Party's suggestion. While such a proposal may look good on paper, it certainly is not feasible. S'pore has always prided itself on being efficient in handling issues, be it political, economic or social. Let us not complicate matters for the sake of practising 'perfect democracy'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 00:04:58 GMT[Devise a more robust process] In an election of the nature that the electorate experienced last Saturday, the votes could go in any direction. I was very concerned that the outcome would be anything other than what it was eventually. If things had turned out differently, it could well have spelt the beginning of the end of Singapore's success story.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:20 GMT[Guard against an activist president] S'pore ultimately got the best man for the president's post. However, things need not have turned out that way as the close contest showed. And only a minority of voters seem to have asked themselves the basic question: What is the real role of a president and who is best qualified to do it?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 23:48:25 GMTMinister Yaacob Ibrahim also congratulates Dr Tony Tan on behalf of Muslim community (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 23:43:56 GMTThorny Tan has done a lot for Muslims... [don't miss Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 23:35:59 GMTRemember the days of sand, swings and slides? CNNGo hunts down the last few remaining playgrounds that haven't yet been usurped by plastic imports (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 23:26:45 GMT[The perfume of emollient moderation] One conclusion Opposition parties may draw from Tan Cheng Bock's near-success is that future electoral success for them can be had by replicating what he did. That's easy enough to say, but what exactly were the characteristics of his campaign that drew voters?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 23:21:22 GMTThe profile of the population.. A maturing, well-educated and well-travelled population will be more discerning and more probing. To make a real difference and unify the country is not only to be more in tune with the global economy but also this new citizenry that is slowly but surely evolving (Letter from James Ang - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 23:10:33 GMT[Why Opposition MPs can't be advisers to grassroots bodies] Grassroots advisers are required to help the Govt promote govt policies and programs.. Opposition MPs cannot be expected to do this and thus, cannot become advisers to GROs (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 22:18:27 GMTI refer to the article which mentioned that PA appoints advisers to its grassroots organisations in each constituency. Mr Desmond Choo is the defeated PAP candidate in Hougang and is now in talks with PA, which is applying to HDB for transfer of the lease of 6 plots of land. What is the role of grassroots advisers? Do they have authority?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 22:08:26 GMTHewlett-Packard may have killed the TouchPad, but it's going to continue manufacturing it for just a little while longer. With demand for the heavily discounted tablet still running high, HP has decided to produce one one last run before sending it off to a final dirt nap [AllThingsD]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 21:57:12 GMTThe Australian city of Melbourne has beaten Canada's Vancouver to the title of world's most liveable city for the first time in almost a decade. Vancouver has topped the annual Global Liveability Survey since 2002, but this year fell to third behind Vienna (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 21:51:48 GMT[The Economics of Happiness] Economic progress is important and can greatly improve the quality of life, but only if it is pursued in line with other goals. In this respect, the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan has been leading the way. Dozens of experts recently gathered in Bhutan's capital to take stock of the country's record. Here are some of the initial conclusions.. (Project Syndicate)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 21:46:24 GMTWikiLeaks has "challenged traditional media and made journalists braver. It has reinvigorated journalists to start asking the hard questions again." (Socialmedia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 15:39:06 GMT[In New Memoir, Dick Cheney Tries to Rewrite History] Cheney biographer Barton Gellman has discovered an untruth in Dick Cheney's upcoming biography (swampland.time)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 15:34:46 GMTProject Gutenberg is an expansive set of free eBooks, digitized and assembled by Michael Hart [who, incidentally, is the inventor of the eBook]. In a list released today that summarized the 25 most commonly downloaded Project Gutenberg eBooks, the two most popular free e-books are the Kama Sutra and The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (OverDrive)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 15:29:35 GMTSingapore-based activist fund Effissimo Capital Management will sell its stakes in Tachihi Enterprise and New Tachikawa Aircraft as part of management buyouts of the Japanese firms to be conducted in tandem for a total of about US$1 billion. The buyouts will allow major shareholders to exit their investments in the two firms (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 14:56:55 GMT[A detainee remembers - Part 2] Tang Fong Har was one of the 6 arrested on 20 June 1987. I have often wondered why Fong Har was arrested. After reading her account, my conclusion is that she was arrested because she had spoken to the late J B Jeyaretnam and Amnesty International soon after the arrests on 21 May 1987. That was exactly the reason for the arrest of Patrick Seong in 1988..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 13:27:42 GMTWhile Dr Tan was not half as confrontational as Mr TJS, he was in fact sending disguised messages of solidarity to establishment critics in the conduct of his presidential campaign. Alas! If only a minute fraction of the more fired up PAP critics had deciphered those messages in time and voted for Cheng Bock instead of TJS, they would have elected a president much more receptive to their sentiments than they had suspected (Furry Brown Dog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 13:04:55 GMTDear Straits Times, I refer to 30 Aug 2011 letter: 'Alternative voting formats not the answer'. Mr Chen Junyi feels it is still possible no candidate can garner more than 50% of votes. But our goal is not to have a perfect system but the best system we can possibly conceive. If an overwhelming number of those who voted for TKL or TJS chose TCB as their 2nd choice, it means they would support Cheng Bock to be their president..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 12:58:10 GMT[PA and HDB got mixed up in the simple tussle for public space between WP and unelected members of PAP in Aljunied GRC] I will not delve into the evidence thrown up by the political parties.. Who is right and wrong can often be a matter of perspective. Instead, I would like to focus on 3 key areas that I felt reflected badly on PA and HDB as public institutions (Howard Lee - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 12:43:25 GMTBe grateful for small mercies, half a loaf is better than no bread [Reader's comment: Wow... no joke man. Nearly took an innocent man's life - and still so grudging about it. The SPF/AGC has really gone amok] Singapore Noteshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 12:37:32 GMTWhy is it that replies from authorities and establishments which are reported in the news often do not register the person who is speaking? Why is there no real person coming forward to make a statement if the management as a whole believes it is correct? (Letter from Daniel Chan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 12:34:49 GMTSDP cautioned S'poreans against electing Dr Tony Tan as President of S'pore because Dr Tan is very much a part of the system designed to shield the financial reserves from the people's scrutiny, in particular the operations of the GIC (see here and here). At a time when we most need transparency and accountability, we end up with a GIC man as our President. Let us hope we will not live to regret the decision (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 04:58:08 GMT11 of the 12 activists and MPs of PAP interviewed yesterday said the election results were not conclusive enough to back Dr Tan Cheng Bock's claims of a divide in the party, and his assertion that its rank-and-file members had backed him while its leadership, like elected MPs and ministers, preferred Dr Tony Tan (Kor Kian Beng , Tessa Wong, Rachel Chang - ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 02:34:35 GMT['Articles of Law' by Bhag Singh] This is the question posed by a reader: He wanted to know whether a lawyer can ask for payment of all the fees agreed on, in advance (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 02:09:40 GMT[Lessons from the voting pattern of the PE] The take away from the results is that the rich and successful want to preserve their position... Look forward to PAP working themselves out of govt eventually. They might even bring forward that day from internal divisions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 30 Aug 2011 01:59:13 GMTNot GE, but result shows political dividehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 23:59:03 GMT[Who can be the Future President of Singapore?] For the purpose of providing a 2nd key, we now make our presidents go through gruelling elections. We need to ask ourselves if all these are necessary because of a concept invented after a poor GE1991 showing for the ruling party.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 23:52:55 GMT[In Diversity lies a stronger Unity] Following last week's energetically contested Presidential elections, several friends expressed concerns about what the "fractured" election results may mean for national unity. This reminds me of a winning entry in the recent My Home, My Town 2011 Photo competition..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 23:30:47 GMTLost in Little India? Here's a rough guide to the messiest, loudest, but oh-so-alive spot on the island (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 23:24:51 GMT'Malay-Muslim community needs to be prepared for dark clouds' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 23:21:41 GMTSBF chairman Tony Chew said the federation looks forward to working with Dr Tan to advance the interest of the nation and its business community. Taman Bacaan president Abdul Halim Kader said Dr Tan brings to the highest office of the state his immense experience in politics, economics and business, education, social development, defence and geo-politics of the region (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 23:17:04 GMT[The Elected Presidency in a new normal] International media reports have characterised the outcome as a sign of "many still upset with long-ruling PAP". That is probably reading the results simplistically (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 23:06:03 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock, in conceding defeat, said: "Even though I lost by only 0.34 per cent ... we have to follow our British system, first past the post." However, the British, who have been the proponents of this electoral system for years, have themselves considered change (Letter from K Balakrishnan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 23:02:08 GMTSaying president-elect Tony Tan has 65 per cent of the voters against him does not stand up to scrutiny. Having elimination rounds does not do justice either. All sorts of arguments can be made against a winning candidate who captures anything less than 100 per cent of the votes, in which case there would have been no contest in the first place (Chen Junyi - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 22:57:42 GMT[Subsidies reach those who need them] We thank Dr Christopher Wong ('Decouple patient's subsidy eligibility from ward status'), Mr Arthur Lim ('Health care: Key problem is paying cash upfront') and Mr John Lok ('How more of the needy can get health subsidies') for their feedback on how we could better address health-care affordability [ST Forum]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 22:50:52 GMTDetails of 2,000 extra university places (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 22:46:43 GMTHougang grassroots adviser Desmond Choo is wrong when he argued that PA's arrangement does not put the WP at a disadvantage politically. While Mr Choo and other defeated PAP candidates have the platform to negotiate with HDB, defeated opposition candidates cannot do the same. I hope PA will stick to its aims of bringing people together based on national rather than partisan interest (Muhammad Yusuf Osman - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 22:41:45 GMTIn the article "MOM refutes report on Chinese migrant workers", MOM says HOME's report, The Exploitation of Migrant Chinese Construction Workers in S'pore, does not reflect the full picture of their employment conditions. However, through our interviews and experience assisting hundreds of them.. inadequacies in current policies, employment practices, and enforcement of existing laws (Jolovan Wham, HOME) Voices, TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 22:30:22 GMT[Lest We Forget - A Politically Apolitical President] PRESIDENTIAL BAGGAGE .. Remember Pianist Melvin Tan? .. PRESIDENTIAL FAIRPLAY..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 17:16:41 GMTI am glad approximately 70 percent of voters were concerned about girding S'pore for the future. Despite the fact that Dr Tony Tan won by a razor-thin 0.34-percent margin, it does not mean those who voted for Dr Tan Cheng Bock have conflicting issues with the former (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 17:07:28 GMT[Beat high-frequency trading machines by not playing their game] The days of you trying to make a buck actively trading in the stock market are over.. competing against rational machines often guided by herd-like irrational forces. The robots can rule in the blink of an eye. The best way to beat the machines is pretty simple: Don't even play them. Game over.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 16:57:23 GMTOne suspects that the 65 per cent of voters who voted against Dr Tony Tan would also be vehemently and strongly opposed to having him as President.. His work will be made even more difficult because of his unpopularity (Nigel Tan, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 12:48:55 GMTNew KFC logo - damn funny! LOLhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 11:04:16 GMT1. People are not happy with the status quo .. 2. The PAP brand is credible but no longer persuasive .. 3. Court politics have been unveiled .. 4. Sharper Ideological Profiles (Terence Chong is a sociologist & research fellow at ISEAS) New Asia Republichttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 10:54:17 GMT[There is always a need to have people like Jee Say and Kin Lian to maintain the 'biodiversity' in S'pore] PAP is testing the market with a new 'from right to central' product - Cheng Bock. And they will recruit more 'independent' minded candidates rather than pro-establishment candidates in the next GE.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 10:44:23 GMT[LTA Briefing on Construction of MRT Downtown Line in Eunos] I attended a LTA briefing on 23 Aug 2011 with Sylvia Lim and other senior Town Council staff. This post serves to inform residents of that deliberations of that meeting..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 10:30:00 GMT[I will faithfully discharge my duties (as president)...] I thank Messrs Tan Kin Lian, Tan Jee Say and Dr Tan Cheng Bok for contesting this presidential election. It takes a great deal of courage to challenge a govt nominated candidate. Yes, he must preserve, protect and defend.. Since our Constitution has been torn and patched over a hundred times in the past decades, it is my hope he will exercise great care before he accepts and acts on the advice of the cabinet.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 05:31:14 GMTIt is still not clear that multi-million dollar salaries are necessary in today's S'pore to attract talented individuals to serve. With economics only providing some limited guidance, this very important, sensitive question of ministerial pay can thus only be resolved politically (Dr Ivan Png - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 04:29:38 GMT[Unifying S'pore needs more than a figurehead] When the dust from this year's 2 national elections have settled, it is the policies affecting our lives which will determine if we indeed have "confidence for the future". Bridging the social divide would be crucial in deciding if we will "secure our future together". All eyes, thus, are now on PM Lee.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 03:18:52 GMT['The genie is out of Singapore's political bottle'] How PM deals with the genie will decide the kind of political system that will emerge in the next few years. The arguments for high growth, anti-welfarism culture, control of media, one-party system, a Chinese-only PM... they all need to be re-examined in the context of the signals the voters are sending.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 03:17:31 GMTNote the warnings of financial analysts towards the end of the clip. Read also "Singapore's Future As A Financial Centre" [Part 1[, [Part2] and [Part 3]. Singapore Democratshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 03:02:21 GMTIt may be 10 years since the attacks in the U.S. on 11 September, but conspiracy theories have not faded over time. Here are 5 of the most prominent 9/11 conspiracy theories circulating in online communities.. (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 02:58:11 GMTThe number of spoilt votes.. 37,826 people who could have made mince meat of the 7,269 deciding margin. If a ballot paper, with a cross on TCB and a moustache over TT's mug shot, was considered a spoilt vote, a recount would surely yield quite a different result. But not by the same civil servants manning the counting centres, those who know which side of their bread is buttered. At some centres, they went home instead of conducting the recount (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 01:12:27 GMTAfter the handover, PUB will still operate the Linggiu Dam and Johor River water treatment plant. PUB will buy water at 3sen for each 1,000 gallons of water, and sells treated water to Johor at 50sen per 1,000 gallons (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 29 Aug 2011 00:01:14 GMT[Consider returning the deposit as a gesture of goodwill] 'We already have a screening process to select suitable candidates before the election and should not punish anyone who loses in an election to serve the country.'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 28 Aug 2011 22:52:28 GMTA resident at my estate shared that he voted for a certain candidate because he had promised to give back half of his salary. This may be considered vote buying.. No candidates should be allowed to make statements about how they will use their salaries. Similarly, no candidates should be permitted to make election promises on areas outside of the Constitution.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 28 Aug 2011 22:48:22 GMTA new compact must be found with both Govt and citizens doing their part. Only then can that provide unity under a good leadership, while catering for and managing the diversity and energy that the GE and now the PE have revealed (Simon Tay, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 28 Aug 2011 22:42:43 GMT"I'd like to believe that those who voted for Jee Say and Kin Lian, they're unlikely to vote for Tony.." Claiming there is "definitely a division in PAP", the former PAP member said: "Many of the grassroots openly tell me they support me ... it's reflected in the votes. We were so close. PAP is split right down the middle." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 28 Aug 2011 22:35:04 GMT[Jee Say to Dr Tony Tan: Heal social divisions] "The President must work with the govt to put the happiness of all S'poreans at the heart of every govt policy." ...one of the main causes of unhappiness among S'poreans was "divisive economic and social policies of the govt" which have resulted in a widening income gap and a high cost of living.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 28 Aug 2011 22:29:13 GMT[Thomas Freidman Spews Nonsense with Hurricane Force] Yes, it's Sunday, and Thomas Friedman has another of his whacky big picture columns..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 28 Aug 2011 22:25:03 GMTTOC's exclusive interview with Mr Tan Kin Lianhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:50:03 GMTVideo recordings of TKL rally speecheshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:47:42 GMTTan Kin Lian's daughter, Tan Su Ling, had to cut short her speech at the rally last night as there was not enough time. Here, she gives her the full speech at a Press Conference today.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:45:52 GMT[Like Father, Like Daughter. Kin Lian & Su Ling] One cannot help but to emotionally connect with what she is saying. I teared while listening to her..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:42:27 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock said at his rally Thursday he is a candidate who has the independent streak. He intends to have 6 advisors and would be transparent to all S'poreans. "I will have to give you an annual report, I will give you an annual statement, I will tell you whether the reserves have been dipped in, I will tell you the appointments that have taken place , I will let you know your CPF."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:38:51 GMTA recent Yahoo! Singapore poll asked users what kind of President they want for S'pore, and out of 4,993 respondents, 71 percent indicated they prefer a President who questions govt policies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:34:21 GMTGoing by popular sentiment, it seems quite clear who is likely to emerge tops in the PE, but as the saying goes, "it ain't over till the fat lady sings"... It only leaves me to remind you and myself to vote wisely!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:30:07 GMTThe family members of Yong Vui Kong have written an open letter to the candidates for the 2011 S'pore presidential election, asking them to pardon him if they are elected. Yong's brother Vun Leong will try to deliver the letter to the candidates by hand Friday (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:17:00 GMTTo Mr Tan Kin Lian and Mr Tan Jee Say, we at Second Chances are very heartened to hear about your concerns with the President's powers (or lack thereof) in the granting of clemency. To Dr Tony Tan and Dr Tan Cheng Bock, we hope to be able to engage with you and draw you into a deeper discussion to see our concerns, shared by a number of other S'poreans (Kirsten Han)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:12:27 GMT[The Elected Presidency: More of the same or a whole new game?] The coming PE on 27 August will be watched like no other, because the political landscape that has changed so amazingly after GE 2011, may well see a 2nd transformation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:05:33 GMT[One-Stop Guide to PE 2011] You can learn everything about each Presidential candidate, from their background to their position on various issues such as how the reserves should be safeguarded, the President's relationship with the Cabinet and Parliament, the Council of Presidential Advisors, the Mandatory Death Penalty and the ISA.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 14:00:52 GMT[Report on PE 2011 TV debate] Dear Straits Times: I refer to 24 Aug 2011 report "Making difficult and unpopular decisions". Dr Tony Tan claimed he made a difficult and unpopular decision when he scrapped the Graduate Mothers scheme.. Dr Tan Cheng Bock claimed the one difficult and unpopular decision he had to make was to vote against the party on the issue of NMPs despite the whip not being lifted..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:52:16 GMTA re-look at what the candidates have to sayhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:44:09 GMT[Tan Cheng Bock Challenges Tony Tan and Raises an Excellent Point] Cheng Bock has hit the nail on the head with that point he made. I love how he can hold his own because he speaks common sense and what we are all thinking. Just watch the facial expressions and body language in all the segments. They can be very telling.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:39:50 GMT"The ISA is a very blunt instrument..." I watched the video several times and I cannot believe what I saw and heard. I want to tell Dr Tony Tan and also Dr Tan Cheng Bok, that my friends and I were not, and are not, terrorists or Marxists conspiring to overthrow his govt. We issued a joint statement denying the govt's accusations against us as early as 18 April 1988. I reproduce that statement below...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:36:04 GMTAmong some of the calls made to the PAP Govt included the lifting on the ban of peaceful public assemblies, the cessation of the use of defamation laws to stifle free speech, and the abolition of laws that curtail freedom of association. Calls were also made for the Govt to review its laws on mandatory death penalty. Below are excerpts of the report.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:25:06 GMTTony Tan is still not the right man for the jobhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:18:13 GMTTony Chew's SBF resort to scare-mongering and insult Singaporeans and Gahmenhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:16:27 GMTTony Tan 'saddened' by allegations against family [552 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:11:06 GMTWill Singaporeans be unified in the same boat ? [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 12:50:33 GMTSomeone make these slides. [www.slideshare.net]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 12:44:00 GMTA divided Singapore is looking for a unifying heart and voice as President.. look for a heart, or a high-5.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 05:02:51 GMT[PostP-E 2011 Scenarios] As we lurch toward the finishing line for PE 2011, there are all sorts of predictions about what will happen. I would take all with a pound of salt.. Instead of forecasting "what is going to happen", I am going to go through some of scenarios of "what will happen", postP-E 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 02:58:13 GMTThis PE has no parallel. We have no history of similar nationwide contests that we can plumb for guidance. Time for another survey.. a very straightforward one, with 12 simple questions that will barely require 2 minutes. With only two and a half days, we need to get a lot of responses quickly to obtain a meaningful result..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 02:43:53 GMT[SBF says Presidential polls could affect jobs] I think it is mostly the cosseted and spoilt local firms, the ones Ho Kwon Ping pointed out as addicted to cheap labor, who are now selfishly protecting their narrow interest but were clever enough to con a less able govt to listen to them! A govt that has lost much common sense.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 02:35:39 GMT[Relieving the weight of democratic expectations] The PM was spot on when he said in his NDR speech that S'pore would have to "get our politics right as well as our policies... and to get both right, you must start with the politics". Instituting a strong Ombudsman would be a significant step in that direction.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 02:28:34 GMTWhat is important is whether this PE is the beginning of a new way of doing things. Will the govt accept it is no longer the unquestioned authority on all matters in the country? Could this be the beginning of govt being about a conversation of equals, rather than between the great and good with the dull and obedient? (Tang Li)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 02:13:22 GMTCrowds as large as 30,000 people have attended the presidential candidates' rallies, offering boisterous cheers in scenes reminiscent of the intense campaign for May's election. "I used to be a keyboard warrior, but I've decided to do what I can to make a difference. Even if we lose, if the margin is small, it'll send a signal to the govt: We are the people, listen to us." (WSJ)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 02:08:44 GMT[Fear is still relevant] Dr Tan Cheng Bock spoke of the fear that he saw in some S'poreans, including his former PAP colleagues. Even in a "non-political" election, Dr Tan feels the fear people have. So how much more fear do you think there is in the GE? I entered politics only this year. I saw first-hand how real the fear factor was..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:57:13 GMT[Is it tIme for Ignoramus, Blatant Liar to Defend his Integrity Again?] If Tony Tan had realised the quagmire he is in now, would he have put up his name for this Presidential Election?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:50:34 GMTLawrence Leow .. Dr Eileen Aw .. Bakerche bin Mohamed .. Trina Liang-Lin .. Sean Rozario .. Sharon Au .. Chua Thian Poh .. Dr Tony Tan (New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:47:09 GMTDoes Tony Tan look like KFC mascot or Santa Claus?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:41:38 GMTHa ! Greenhorn Desmond Choo, defeated PAP SMC candidate at the polls, knew better than to rumble with veteran Low Thia Khiang. And Desmond couldn't have chosen a worse partner in Lim Hwee Hwa for the mud slinging contest (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:32:02 GMTWhy the PA should be headed by the President, and not the PMhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:24:55 GMTWorkers' Party rebuts People's Association's claims [201 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:21:49 GMT["DO WHAT YOU LOVE"] Steve Jobs gave one of the best commencement speeches of all time (YouTube)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 01:13:40 GMT'I said if there came a day I couldn't meet my duties, I would let you know... that day has come.' (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 00:54:47 GMT[Nothing wrong with being voice of the people] Dr Yik Keng Yeong could have missed the point by presidential candidate Tan Kin Lian ['Not ancient Rome']. Both Mr Tan and Dr Tan Cheng Bock strongly feel that the voice of the common man is not being heard, and want to bridge this gap between the Govt and the people. The next president can help bridge this divide.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 00:47:01 GMT[Tan Kin Lian Rally - a positive view] I walked away convinced beyond any doubt that you are the best choice for S'poreans as our next President. Just to name a few of the many reasons..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 00:41:58 GMTTan Kin Lian's rally speech in English.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 00:28:30 GMT[Ivy Singh boldly speaks from her heart at Tan Kin Lian's Rally] She's definitely one of the bravest women around. Love how bold and honest she is..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 00:26:14 GMTI hope she runs for Parliament in 2016 and give voters like me a chance to let her be our voice. After all that she has said, I don't have to give you any more additional reasons about why I am voting for her father. As a S'porean, I wholly agree with her. When you vote this Saturday, make your voice count (Dharmendra Yadav)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 00:19:53 GMT[NS is not a 'burden'] It is regrettable that after so many years of NS and education on its necessity, Mr Tan Kin Lian still regards it as a burden. Mr Tan called for NSmen to be paid the same allowance as regulars. We should not belittle the contributions of professional soldiers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 00:12:30 GMTI am impressed by WP's integrity in not entering the fray of the PE. The PAP has also not come out in support of any candidate. However, the same cannot be said of other political parties, which are rushing to campaign for their favoured candidates, while claiming to want an independent president. Mr Tan Kin Lian has even indicated that...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 25 Aug 2011 00:07:14 GMT[Statement by Dr Tony Tan's sons on NS] 'The allegations concerning our NS - circulated on the Internet and reinforced by Dr Tony Tan's opponents - are lies. Our reputations and the institution of NS have been maligned, simply to attack our father, Dr Tony Tan..'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 23:50:58 GMTHowever you define Chinese food, these 5 restaurants have it covered (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 23:32:53 GMT[Ratings agencies: Right out of credit] The anger against the credit ratings agencies is not just a matter of shooting the messenger.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 23:30:16 GMT[Apple's COO Tim Cook Replaces Steve Jobs As CEO] Here's the letter from Jobs "to the Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community" distributed over the newswires this evening..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 23:26:35 GMT[Qualities of an elected president] Most importantly, he should be able to influence and work together with the Govt..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 22:38:27 GMT[WHY DR TONY TAN SHOULD SAY SORRY FOR MULTI-BILLION DOLLARS LOSSES IN FOREIGN BANKS] Normally, GIC does not take significant stakes in any business. In the case of UBS and Citigroup, it made exceptions under the leadership of Dr Tony Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 22:35:55 GMTWe must be clear on the role of our next president.. Over the last few days, some may have been overwhelmed by the many stories that tried to discredit certain presidential candidates. Such a political environment is something I do not encourage.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 22:34:11 GMTI Felt for Dr Tan Cheng Bock when he Expressed his Disappointment.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 22:30:47 GMTI read with interest ['Why Istana idea is vital: Cheng Bock']. Dr Tan Cheng Bock seems to have a very limited vision for the EP. In a global economic crisis, domestic political ability is not enough. We need a president who can discuss economics and finance..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 22:29:15 GMTSingaporeans on the Cabinet's first 100 days [177 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 22:25:32 GMT[Figures should serve as an alarm]. I refer to the article "CDCs gear up for uncertain economic climate". That more S'poreans are seeking financial aid - despite good economic growth, job creation and wage increases - should serve as an alarm. At this rate, the number seeking assistance this year would be more than the 55,600 last year, and maybe the 62,300 in the 2009 recession year. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 21:56:55 GMTWe thank Mr Leong Sze Hian for his letter "Figures should serve as an alarm" on our C.A.S.HUP [Cultivate A Savings Habit] program... will undertake a comprehensive evaluation at the end of its pilot run (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 21:55:28 GMT[large photos] Indian Hindu devotees throughout the world celebrate Janmashtami, which marks the birth of Hindu God Lord Krishna with enormous zeal and enthusiasm (BostonGlobe)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 21:50:19 GMTHe reiterated he has knowledge in economic and financial management in both the public and private sectors. "This background enables me to share views, insights and makes suggestions to the PM and Cabinet ministers so they will make better economic decisions, not the president." Apart from 5 key areas which the president has veto powers in, he has to act on advice of the Cabinet (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 15:36:58 GMTSome ghosts just wouldn't go away...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 15:23:15 GMT2ND MEDIA RELEASE ON PUBLIC SITES - YAW SHIN LEONG. MP (HOUGANG), VICE-CHAIRMAN, ALJUNIED-HOUGANG TOWN COUNCIL.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 13:51:42 GMTDear Mr Janadas Devan: I refer to the 23 Aug 2011 CNA broadcast of the PE debate. You quoted article 211 of the constitution.. You took issue with Mr Tan Jee Say.. You then rudely interjected Mr Tan not once but twice with these questions.. Mr Tan explained several times but you were impatient and unwilling to open up your mind to listen to him. You were hostile to Mr Tan and didn't show the fairness which moderators should show..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 13:47:27 GMTTan Kin Lian at a Hindu Temple & Ivy Singh's Endorsement.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 13:35:41 GMT[MEDIA RELEASE ON UNTRUE CLAIMS OF CURTAILMENT OF PAP GRASSROOTS ACTIVITIES IN HOUGANG SMC] The statement is reproduced here in full.. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 13:31:37 GMT[What GIC does not reveal raises Alarms and Red Flags] Dr Tony Tan has been with GIC since its inception. It reveals nominal returns but not ABSOLUTE returns... ought to be revealed because nominal returns can mislead and hide unpleasant or even ugly truths. Allow me to provide a simple illustration..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 13:23:51 GMTI am so disappointed. I think Sharon Au is adorable and I can't help but wonder if this was a situation where she just couldn't say no (bookjunkie)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 13:17:54 GMTASME is backing Dr Tony Tan for President. ASME's president, Lawrence Leow, said Dr Tan is a respectable and unifying figure for citizens of S'pore.. Mr Leow is convinced that with Dr Tan's knowledge, experience, capability and standing, he will be able to perform his presidential duties with honour and integrity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 12:21:26 GMTTan Jee Say has stressed it is important to make his ideas and positions known on key issues, but this is not something that will happen every day [of the presidency, if he is elected]. He also responded to a comment by Dr Tan Cheng Bock.. he was "disturbed" by Mr Tan's view about checking and challenging the govt, along with other issues that were "out of bounds".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 12:18:04 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock said he was disappointed that some of his former PAP fellow members and those working in govt or govt-linked companies were afraid to support him in his presidential bid... some had expressed fears that they could lose their jobs if they supported him.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 12:10:47 GMTJoin us on Yahoo! at 7pm as we catch all the action from Presidential Election candidate Tan Kin Lian's rally at Yio Chu Kang Stadium.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 10:39:12 GMTOur very own NMP (Nuisance Member of Parliament) Leong Sze Hian will be speaking at Tan Kin Lian's rally today.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 10:37:04 GMT'PA' = 'People's Association', 'Political Auxiliary' or the 'Partisan Accomplice'?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 10:25:18 GMTAnother Tan wants to enter the Presidential election ?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 10:20:46 GMT[So much "confidence for the future"] Seen on Google+: Tony Tan's banner > Singapore flag?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 10:18:16 GMT[Sack HDB, disband People's Association] The PAP has been a destroyer of institutions. Whenever things didn't suit itself, it would politicise otherwise neutral arms of the state. Here we see the HDB made to lick boots. Other times, it's the police and its licensing arm, or the prosecution branch and yes, the judiciary too.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 08:23:59 GMTPA now accuses Workers' Party of 'subtle sabotage'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 08:22:50 GMTDear Ms Chua Mui Hoong: I refer to your 17 Aug 2011 ST article "Why the president is not a super-MP". You said raising expectations about what the president can do is a fundamental error of fact, and a gravely irresponsible act of politics. The fundamental error is in your insinuation that expectations are being raised. There is no need for expectations to be raised...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 08:06:19 GMT"The President does not have executive powers except in 5 areas clearly specified in the Constitution. The President is not a centre of power in S'pore. Only the Govt is. They make the economic decisions, not the President." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 08:02:41 GMTPresidential Election Watch Part VII - Is Dr Tony Tan Tailing Behind in the Presidential Election Race? Yahoo News (Singapore) did a survey. The poll has expired and the results are as shown below..... If Singaporeans are smart enough to understand the individual platforms of the 4 PE candidates, it looks certain Dr Tony Tan will have a hard time. [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 06:17:16 GMT[Tan Kin Lian Rally @ Yio Chu Kang Stadium] We hope to see all at the rally tonight at 7pm! Bring your friends, family, colleagues! Spread the word!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 05:14:19 GMT[Does Dr Tony Tan really have the economic and finance brain for the coming crisis?] A western-trained economist with the understanding of the East can give and provide better solutions to S'pore, not Dr Tony Tan if we really need one. It is better for voters to put on a pair of glasses to look for a heart -- a missing heart hiding somewhere for the past 50 years.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 04:31:47 GMT[Political 'eye for an eye' between the Govt and WP] You might say this is the practice all over the world, but S'poreans would prefer that our politicians are exceptional. How many times have I blogged that S'pore is gradually becoming like any other 1st world city. We are getting less special, and our premium is eroding.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 04:23:36 GMT[Gift From The Heavens] You know what this means? ..WP will have a ready-made excuse in the next GE if they failed to run Aljunied GRC as well as the previous PAP team. Not only that, they have proof that they had obstructions placed by PAP-run bodies! ..should really thank HDB for giving them this gift from the heavens.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 04:17:48 GMTPresident guards Reserves: Really? ..why was the past reserves allowed to be used when the average annual Net Investment Returns Contribution (NRIC) was $7 billion?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 01:59:20 GMTAssured of her immortality, SMRT CEO Saw Phaik Hwa boldly promised, "We cannot have another incident." Remember, 3 strikes and you're out. Let's see if she lives up to her word, or blame it on "likelihood of human failure" when 3rd time comes around (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 01:54:44 GMT[Singapore's Curry Solidarity] To show solidarity to all S'poreans who love curry, a "Cook A Pot of Curry Day" event was organized last Sunday, August 21. The FB page of the event had a confirmed attendance of more than 60,000. Below are some online reactions..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 01:42:05 GMTSeow Choke Meng, Executive Vice President of Cultural Industry Promotion at SPH, has been seen making the walkabout rounds introducing Tony Tan to the people.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 01:37:55 GMTThe issue now is whether Tony will suffer collateral damage at the polls, the victim of punishment by voters who could be unhappy with the most recent developments (Faisal Wali, New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 01:33:24 GMT[Presidential Elections is August 27] The President Tan that will emerge early morning of August 28 will NOT be a Tony. The PAP does not understand reality on the ground, 3 months after the GE. They still think it is BAU (a given), and believing their own bullshit.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 01:25:06 GMT[A non-partisan case against Tony Tan as President] For the purposes of this post, let's avoid talking about anything related to Tony Tan's past record as Cabinet minister.. Let's just focus on the issue: Can Tony Tan be considered sufficiently independent purely from the standpoint of good corporate governance to exercise oversight to safeguard the hard-earned reserves from possibly risky GIC investments?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 00:50:50 GMTTJS Presidential Rally: All hearts as Onehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 00:48:47 GMTNobody says it like Alex Au does.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 00:42:18 GMTI would urge President Nathan to censure the PAP-led govt.. In addition, the president should also rebuke PA and HDB.. President Nathan also has an opportunity to right a wrong.. (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 00:29:23 GMT[Why SMRT's Laissez-Faire Attitude Worries Commuters] Discussions on the reprimanding of the security guard agency, additional surveillance systems, embedded fencing, and other perimeter security measures would be meaningless if the root problems of apathy and lethargy are not recognised. Otherwise, how would one explain the repetitive nature of the consecutive incidents?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 00:13:46 GMT[Presidential Impressions] What I remember most about the 4 Presidential candidates up to this point...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 00:06:25 GMTI don't agree with Mr Koh Ching Feng ["Pick a peacemaker, not a warrior"] It is a myth that the head of state should be above politics and non-partisan. During the campaign period, it is natural for a candidate to give voters an idea of what kind of roles he would take on as president, to voice the feelings of the people while staying within his powers. Voters must be convinced of what he represents to deserve their votes.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 24 Aug 2011 00:03:10 GMT[Questioning Kin Lian's promises] I am putting this question to him not because I think the Govt cannot improve on existing standards. They can, they should, and they are doing so.. those seeking higher office like Mr Tan should try to refrain from making sweeping statements without supporting them with facts. Imagination and industry have brought S'pore very far. There won't be any high-fives if we think with only our heart.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 23:45:22 GMT[Why Istana idea is vital] I am surprised by Mr Ang Seng Yong's assertion that I want the Istana to myself. Mr Ang paints the wrong picture. I never said I wanted to be like the Queen of England..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 23:37:45 GMTAlfian Sa'at: Rejected PAP candidate Desmond Choo wishes to transfer 6 plots of land in Hougang SMC to PA, "in a bid to reach out to more residents". But if PA is supposed to be 'non-partisan' in the 1st place, then it's impossible for him to use these venues for his own political self-promotion. You want to set up your presence in an area, then open a PAP branch office. Stop using a stat board as a sneaky front.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 23:33:04 GMTThe real issue here is not the age limit but the reason why S'poreans must, at such an age, still work in such a physically tiring job which demands long hours (Sng Choon Kwee - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 22:37:05 GMTThe Govt should elaborate on the promise made by PM Lee to increase the number of university places offered to S'poreans by 2,000, by 2015 ['2,000 more uni places for local students'] Law Che Kun - ST Forumhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 22:34:00 GMT[MND and PA responds to AHTC] And if PA is not a political organisation affiliated with the political party PAP, why is it making a joint-statement with the Ministry of National Development?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 22:16:20 GMT[Leasing Land for Activities in Hougang Need Not Be Difficult] Shin Leong's responses to Mr Choo's comments.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 22:13:14 GMTIn a media statement issued yesterday, Hougang grassroots adviser Desmond Choo and his grassroots leaders cited examples of how grassroots activities in Hougang and Aljunied were curtailed by the WP-run town councils. The statement.. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 22:09:32 GMTTemasek Holdings responds to NSP's claims [250 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 21:50:45 GMT'Hazel Poa's statements misleading' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 21:47:48 GMTSingapore could set up a 'Do Not Call' registry that lets people opt out of receiving unwanted calls (Richard Hartung, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 21:41:45 GMT[Battle of the Endorsements: Sharon Au vs Nicole Seah?] "Wah. Sharon Au speaking at Tony Tan's rally tmrw." How should we interpret these multiple endorsements? Will they really make a difference for Tony Tan, the way Nicole Seah has helped Tan Jee Say? Or is it all window dressing?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 16:17:44 GMTFor those of you who can't be bothered to go for Tony Tan's rally, make plans instead to attend Tan Kin Lian's rally at Yio Chu Kang Stadium in the evening!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 15:42:37 GMTTV Forum - Introduce the Presidential Candidates .. Bigger housing grant for NS men, multi-racial harmony and use of video .. What is at stake - fight for the soul of Singapore .. Convinced by Tan Kin Lian .. Insightful and inspiring .. Tan Kin Lian Rally - 24 August, 7pm .. National Service can be made a privilege .. Heart for the common man.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 15:38:51 GMTHougang SMC grassroots advisor Desmond Choo wishes to transfer 6 plots of (Hougang) land to People's Association. He is currently in talks with PA, who is applying to HDB on his behalf, for the transferral of lease.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 14:59:32 GMT[Tan Jee Say holds 1st rally in presidential race] 9 speakers addressed the crowd at Toa Payoh Stadium before Mr Tan took to the stage Tuesday. They included Dr Vincent Wijeysingha, Dr Ang Yong Guan, Jeannette Chong-Aruldoss and Nicole Seah. Mr Tan defended the line-up of speakers, saying some may be members of opposition parties but they were speaking on behalf of all S'poreans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 14:47:10 GMT[PA or PAP?] You can accuse us of political apathy. But, you can never accuse S'poreans of stupidity. I am totally stunned at the audacity of PA's response. Please don't insult our intelligence. And, by the way who is on the Board of Management in PA? Non-Partisan? My ***.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 13:14:49 GMT[Is the PA a Political Tool of the PAP?] The latest bouts of high-handed antics of the PA are something which any right-thinking S'porean will feel revulsed. They are going beyond the realm of propriety and decency to please their political masters, and no decent S'porean would believe them if they disavow that their deplorable actions are not politically-motivated and an abuse of power. Let's examine the facts...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 13:13:31 GMTWorkers' Party hits back at HDB, PA [434 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 12:01:51 GMTDon't mess with our curry...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:57:37 GMT[Vigorous exchange between presidential hopefuls on "Meet the Candidates"] Interviewer Prof Tommy Koh had to stress several times during the program that the President's role is determined by the Constitution. "Under the Constitution, you can in your regular meeting with the PM convey your view, your advice, but in public, I think the Constitution constrains you."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:53:50 GMTStraight Talk with Tan Kin Lian - Safeguarding the Reserves and CPF.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:20:59 GMTSylvia Lim scoffed at PM Lee's call for 'national solidarity'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:17:30 GMTfrom Politics Sgp: "If TJS wins the PE, will they lease the Istana to the PA too? TJS may then have to build his own Presidential Office in a void deck."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:15:29 GMTOn a larger scale, the fallout from PA's folly will also have a very telling impact on Mr Lee's prime ministership. How will we be able to trust PM Lee when what he says appears to be mere rhetoric, sounding nice to the ears but actually having no bite or substance or any real intent? (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:11:50 GMT[Do we still want a Nathanesque presidency? Part 2] In Part 1, I discussed how the reality is that no constitution can exhaustively delineate what the president can or cannot do. I also debunked 2 notions that I sense our msm is keen to advertise as incontestable.. In Part 2, I will deal with 2 more notions. The 1st is that conflict between govt and president is no good.. The 2nd is that we should apply a very narrow reading of constitutional powers..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:10:04 GMTSingapore, already facing local complaints on employment and inflation, is bracing for tougher times if the U.S. and other large economies head into recession. But few doubt the island nation will again bounce back quickly and strongly (Megawati Wijaya - AsiaTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:06:16 GMTAfter launching fine dining restaurants in Taipei and Shanghai over the past half decade, Singapore's best known chef, Justin Quek, has come home (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 11:01:25 GMTTOC Face To Face 2 - Mood change over 2 hours...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:50:38 GMT'Mr Tan Kin Lian wants to be the voice of the common people, and Mr Tan Jee Say chooses to occupy the moral high ground and aspires to be a president who will be the ethical voice of the nation. Singapore is not ancient Rome. The Govt already represents all strata of society..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:49:07 GMTAt least 7 out of the 12 people in the board are PAP cadres.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:38:47 GMTDisgraced PAP MP Dr Lim Wee Kiat has given a 'lecture' to the presidential candidates on the role of the Elected President. In an interview with Lianhe Zaobao, Dr Lim said he is 'concerned' at the 'promises' made by some presidential candidates...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:29:54 GMTKey considerations of public sector union leaders' support for presidential candidate do not jive with clarifications put out by Law Minister (NewNation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:26:37 GMTSDP asks Elections Department to conduct seminar to resolve voting problems.. where parties can be briefed on various procedures of voting, and for ELD to receive feedback from candidates and polling agents on how loopholes can be plugged and entire balloting process improved.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:21:37 GMTThe act of electing a president is to give him the moral and legal rights to stand up to a rogue govt. Who can provide the checks and balance in the most objective and impartial way, without fear or favour? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:16:32 GMTIt is easier to transfer money assets in the Reserve than the physical leases in Aljuniedhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 05:07:26 GMTNSP calls for more transparency in GIC, Temasek [145 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 04:45:38 GMTNTUC Chief Lim Swee Say said 75 per cent of unions have endorsed presidential candidate Dr Tony Tan.. the rest have chosen to remain neutral (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 04:41:12 GMTAlfian Sa'at: "The collusion between HDB and PA in denying WP the use of public spaces within their own constituency is shocking. Forget all you've read about S'pore being 'corruption-free'. A govt that allows the use of taxpayers' money to protect the interests of a single party is a corrupt govt."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 04:35:52 GMT[Who in the Public Service Approved This?] In the end, HDB has publicly and clumsily stated this.. What HDB is saying is as follows..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 04:32:12 GMTIt is odd that Dr Tan Cheng Bock considers evicting PM from Istana such an important issue. The President should focus on the economy, the well-being of the country, and how he can work with the Govt.. It is a sad day when political gimmickry replaces substantive issues (Ang Seng Yong - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 03:20:51 GMTI do not attach much importance to the idea of moving PMO and Cabinet offices from the Istana because it is not a pressing issue. If anything, presidential candidates should indulge in more pressing and relevant issues that concern ordinary people, instead of raising unnecessary suspicions (Jeffrey Law, STForum online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 03:05:15 GMTTan Cheng Bock's wavering principles.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 02:59:01 GMTA security firm says SMRT is attempting to shift the blame for its latest security lapse. The firm, Evtec Management Services, hired by SMRT for security, says it is not at fault for the intrusion (insing)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 02:52:07 GMT[I CHOPE first - na nani boo boo] S'poreans love to chope. During lunch hour, and all tables look full... Maybe that was what motivated Cynthia Phua and her colleagues, oops... sorry not them, but the PA to chope choice sites in the Aljunied GRC.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 02:34:54 GMTStraight Talk with Tan Kin Lian - Independent of the PAP and the Opposition.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 02:26:14 GMTThere is no politician in the organizations. All of PA's premises are out of bound to politicians. Even those common areas it leased from the HDB are only for nonpolitical community events. I think, correct me if I am wrong, an MP cannot go to the community club to pee if nature calls (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 02:24:12 GMTAfter 7 months of brutal fighting and setbacks and chaos, Libyan rebels were predicting the end of Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi's 42-year rule within days. Can Opposition forces unite, then pacify the country, restore the economy and gain control of weapons taken from Qaddafi forces' stockpiles? What role should the West play now? 7 experts share their views (NYT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 02:11:14 GMTThe world's largest technology company by revenue shocked investors last week with a series of announcements, including that it might spin off the PC business and would kill its new tablet as part of a major revamping away from the consumer market (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 02:09:08 GMTSpot gold soared to an all-time high above US$1,910 Tuesday, on course for its biggest monthly rise in 29 years, as persistent worries about global economic growth burnished bullion's safe-haven appeal (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 02:06:07 GMTIn the wake of calls for a Commission of Inquiry to look into the gross injustice of 25 years past, a peek inside the paranoid mind of the "main culprit" may yield useful input.. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 01:59:21 GMT[Articles of law by BHAG SINGH] The police have the power to detain a person. However, this must be in the interest of all parties, and for a proper purpose (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 01:54:13 GMTI read a case of a TOC reporter being hauled to the police station by [an officer of] the transport authority for taking photographs of an accident involving buses. We also have a nonpolitical organization like the PA with the authority to ban elected representative of the people from public functions because they have ownership of the property by virtue of a lease.. (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 01:48:44 GMT[My President, My Voice] WP yesterday released a statement about how their constituents are being disadvantaged by shameful politicking. What is the President of S'pore - who is above politics; who was deemed elected by the whole electorate; who is supposed to be the balance of power - doing about it? He has been absolutely silent. No surprise there because apparently he cannot act, except with the advice of the ruling party.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 01:36:44 GMTAlex Au: We need a president who will refuse to reappoint present members of HDB, seeing the totally partisan way HDB behaved in conjunction with the PA in Aljunied GRC.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 23 Aug 2011 01:28:02 GMTYoung PAP contributor Sinha Shekhar asks what's the big deal about HDB leasing areas managed by the previous Aljunied town council to PA, instead of to the new Aljunied Hougang Town Council.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:37:49 GMTResponding to media queries, HDB said... Also responding was PA which said... PA reiterated... (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:33:57 GMT[Be selective of businesses on CC premises] "PA community clubs have become a popular hang-out for residents in a community. So the PA must be conscious of the kind of businesses it allows on its CC premises."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:30:51 GMT"MR VISWA Sadasivan ['Sunday's curry unity targets intolerance, not foreigners'] misunderstood the mediation process in commenting on the curry debate. If mediators took the approach suggested by Mr Sadasivan, our society would have many more disputes unresolved, and festering."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:25:28 GMT"Yesterday's letter ['Lawyer created illusion of dissonance: Law Ministry'] adds further clarity to the debate over the precise ambit of the President's right of public speech under the Constitution, and is to be welcomed. I am equally happy to state categorically that there was no intention to put any misleading question to the candidates."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:22:16 GMT"Everyone bickers about which browser is faster, but in my experience all of them eventually slow down after I've opened a few tabs and used them for a while. Whether I use Chrome, Firefox, or IE, my CPU spikes, the browser eats my memory, and it slows to a crawl. How can I stop this?" (Lifehacker)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:04:59 GMTThe Senate's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations in April released a scathing report that criticized Goldman for "exploiting" clients by unloading subprime loan exposure onto unsuspecting clients in 2006 and 2007, and concluded that its top executives misled Congress during testimony in 2010 (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 22:00:20 GMTlarge photos (TheBigPicture)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 21:56:48 GMTAs his troops fight bloody street battles with rebels, Libyan dictator goes to ground (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 21:54:52 GMT[Leopards and spots] It is as if PAP is determined to prove that leopards cannot change their spots. PA can try its best to spin the truth, but the latest revelation from WP completely destroys any plausible deniability that could possibly be left.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 16:00:13 GMTTOC Face To Face 2 - Candidates opening speech...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMTHere's One Place Where The TouchPad Isn't Sold Out (businessinsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 13:37:52 GMT[Do we still want a Nathanesque presidency? Part 1] The argument I am going to make here is that ultimately, the political system we will have is not so much determined by what cookie PAP will want baked, but what S'poreans want themselves. I want to contest several ideas that are meant to restrict our proper understanding of the politics of the Presidential office, and the politics spring from those grey areas. In this Part 1, I will deal with three..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 13:06:25 GMT[Transparency on our Sovereign Wealth Fund] "NSP believes that our citizens have the unquestionable right to have the fullest picture of where their taxes and govt-mandated social contributions go into, and what comes out of that... also calls for all MPs and their immediate relatives to be open about any compensation they might be receiving from Temasek or GIC or other such organizations" (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 13:05:26 GMTI see, HDB quietly leased to PA key sites in Aljunied GRC thereby depriving WP from using them. Yeah, very legal indeed but obviously immoral. Shame on you. What other secret and private abuses might you have done to us over the years? I am a latecomer, and I bet there will be lots more of us learning about all these. I am leaving this entry here, which will become useful in GE 2016. I shall talk about it to friends supported with evidence (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 12:54:16 GMT[The return of poverty...] On my way to work, I pass by this condo called The Marq On Patterson. The Marq is the most expensive property in S'pore, priced upwards of $6000 psf. While PAP refuses to stop allocating advantages to the rich and burdening the poor... It is now 3rd world living standard for the underclass vs living in the Marq for the richest in our society.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 12:52:29 GMT[Responding to Catherine Lim's latest article on the EP] "Curiously nobody is writing their perception of developments from the PAP bench. Former ministers that are out of office like George Yeo, Dhanabalan etc., had not assumed the task. One way to look at it is that they were paid men to do a job. Had it been passion that had driven them ..."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 09:35:43 GMT[Time to put a stop to grassroots partisanship] That opposition MPs are being stonewalled or blocked from carrying out their duties is, sadly, nothing new in S'pore. What is really a cause for concern is that PA seems to have subtly and surreptitiously involved itself in the PE as well.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 09:20:11 GMT[This isn't GE] Dear ST: I refer to 22 Aug 2011 letter by Mr Chia Hua Meng. While the presidential election is not the GE, it is an election involving all S'poreans nonetheless. Any issue concerning all S'poreans is an issue worth championing during the PE. High cost of living and over-crowdedness, you can't say these are solely opposition issues and not national issues.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 09:15:46 GMT[Pick a peacemaker?, not a warrior] Dear Straits Times: I refer to 22 Aug 2011 letter by Mr Koh Ching Feng. We don't need a peacemaker if making peace means sacrificing our future and the future of our country. A president that speaks out for the people is not trying to be a warrior. He is merely doing what any conscionable person would - speak up against injustice.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 09:11:21 GMTRemembering President Ong (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 09:08:15 GMTUse of veto power .. Words from a young graduate .. Straight Talk with Tan Kin Lian .. TOC - Face 2 Face with Presidential Candidates .. Tan Kin Lian speaks to TOC .. Time for remembering - NTUC Income policyholders .. People's President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 04:49:37 GMTHow We can Help Fellow Singaporeans When the Financial Crisis Worsens.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 04:40:55 GMTThe recent case of the barring of WP MP Chen Show Mao from attending 7th month dinners hosted by Aljunied residents is symptomatic of all that is currently wrong with the politics and policies of Singapore (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 04:38:16 GMT'Face to Face 2' challenged all preconceived beliefs about the Presidential Candidates.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 04:27:05 GMTWP's Chen Show Mao wrote how the PA messes up a friendly neighborhood gathering to celebrate the annual 7th Month festivities.. We look forward to the day when we have to declare our political persuasion before being allowed to visit the public loo. Come to think of it, didn't something like that happened during the May 7 elections? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 04:23:32 GMTWill non-English speaking voters be the king makers in this Presidential election ?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 04:17:07 GMTSeeking more clarity on Tan Jee Say's job record [Clara Tan on ST Forum, 21 Aug 2011]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 04:14:59 GMT[Curry On] What a fantastic Sunday Aug 21 proved to be. More than just a meal however, this event has made S'poreans feel like S'poreans. Mr Shanmugam would have done better if he had acknowledged that while there was no wrongdoing, it was a poorly executed case. The defensive, protective stance he took aggravates.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 04:07:40 GMTWhat I'd ask Dr Tan Cheng Bock... The same could be asked of Tony Tan...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 02:41:15 GMT[Seeking more clarity on Tan Jee Say's job record] I wish candidates would be more forthcoming with their track records and backgrounds so that voters can make a rational decision. In particular, I am concerned about Mr Tan Jee Say's economic and business credentials and track record.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 02:37:09 GMT[Pick a peacemaker, not a warrior] It is important that candidates do not defraud the electorate with empty promises in order to win votes. There should not be any advocacy of new political roles for the presidency, resulting in deviation from the Constitution. Instead of electing a politically active president, we need a president who can get along, and is amiable, with the Govt.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 02:31:26 GMT[Don't make it a platform for unfulfilled political agenda] I just want to vote a suitable head of state and not a political maverick, albeit in the name of representing the voice of the people.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 02:25:41 GMT[Tan Kin Lian helped me with my final year project] You were the only CEO among all the insurance companies I wrote to then who did that. I have, of course, long graduated; your kind deed, however, has been remembered till today.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 02:21:15 GMT[Straight Talk with TKL - Voice of the People] My preferred candidate for GE 2011, Mr Tan Kin Lian, has done a series of Straight Talk videos. I think they are really good. Since I don't have large amounts of money to donate to his campaign, I have agreed to use my blog to help publicize these videos. In this first video..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 02:13:58 GMT[Lawyer created illusion of dissonance] Saturday's article: 'Participants grill candidates on role of president' quoted lawyer Harpreet Singh raising a question - at a forum organised by TOC - on the roles and functions of the President... Mr Singh said the Law Minister had one view, and Mr Goh had a completely different view 12 years ago. Mr Singh's statement is incorrect (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 02:06:29 GMTI refer to Mr Ng Ya Ken's comments: "Winning margin irrelevant". Getting to the Istana is one thing. Staying there for the next 6 years is quite another. S'poreans have a collective responsibility to send the right candidate to the Istana (Clinton Lim - STForum online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 01:53:44 GMTBy painting Chen as explicitly stating a case of excluding 'opposition' MPs, the ST is putting an accusation in Chen's mouth that he never made (The Rot Within)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 01:19:15 GMTPresidential candidate Tan Kin Lian: "I put in a lot of effort, and if (the efforts) result in success, I say it, not for personal pride, but actually to encourage other people: These things can be done, why don't you do it?" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 01:13:25 GMTIn the case of TKL and TJS, the awareness of the little that they can do independently must have dawned on them that they should not be asking for too much pay. It is good that they have this sense of propriety, to know that it is wrong to accept more than what they have contributed. For all the misgivings, I like them for such a sense of honesty and reality (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 01:08:13 GMT[Part 2 of TOC Presidential Forum] I must confess that I was trying to be fair, quite aware I can be biased, but Tony Tan's answers just frustrate me to the core, because he doesn't answer most of the questions directly... Tan Kin Lian made an excellent point that our political leaders should take the lead in the narrowing of the income gap. This was in reference to ministerial salaries.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 00:51:04 GMTAs we embark on the final leg of the presidential campaign trail, we would do well to bear in mind the key elements in the platforms of the candidates, and seriously consider how those platforms gel with our own personal aspirations in relation to the presidency (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 00:27:43 GMT[Presidential Candidates Review] How does one vote for a president? Unless one is related to or know a candidate personally, how is one to judge the character, the ability and integrity of a candidate. Does one judge each candidate and vote for him based on the following factors...?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 00:23:35 GMT4 presidential candidates on the gay issue (Reader's comment: I think most striking isn't their positions on 377A per se, but rather how TT seems to be parroting the exact same message from the govt. Even LKY has a more distinct stand then he does! If he is asking to be our "independent" EP, perhaps he might want to grow a pair first)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 22 Aug 2011 00:17:45 GMTIn 1985, S'pore plunged into its 1st recession, and the minister responsible for the economy at that time was Dr Tony Tan, who has trumpeted on his financial and economic acumen in this Presidential Election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 23:59:14 GMTTony Tan: He Must Now Sue To Show He Is Not a Liar.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 22:38:55 GMT[S Dhanabalan's discomfort with the way the govt dealt with "Marxist Conspiracy" of 1987 eventually led to him choosing to leave Cabinet] "At that time, given the info, he was not fully comfortable with the action we took... he felt uncomfortable and thought there could be more of such episodes in the future... he'd better leave the Cabinet. I respected him for his view," Mr Goh said.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 22:35:56 GMT[Dr Lim Hock Siew challenges Tony Tan] The PAP govt can do itself a favor by reviewing the ISA and replacing it with an anti-terrorism act that is more suited for the threats of today, Retaining the ISA shows they are unable to break free from an authoritarian past that younger S'poreans find hard to accept.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 22:31:29 GMT[Lim Hock Siew calls out Tony Tan for terrorist remark] Dr Lim, S'pore's 2nd longest-held political prisoner under the ISA, pays tribute to a fellow detainee Tan Jing Quee, and issues a challenge to Presidential candidate Dr Tony Tan, who in an earlier video debate had defended the use of ISA against terror threats, citing the Norway shootings.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 22:26:41 GMT[Saddest statistic ever: 200,000 families helped?] I have analysed hundreds of statistics over the last 10-plus years, but the Comcare cumulative assistance statistics given on 14 August were the 'saddest' statistic that I have ever had to analyse.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 22:10:19 GMT[Do more to assess commuter satisfaction] Some S'poreans might have been surprised after reading the findings by the Customer Satisfaction Index of S'pore, in the article "S'poreans are satisfied with public transport system".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 22:07:02 GMT[Civil service should be non-partisan] I am disappointed to learn in applying for use of public spaces for an event, some civic or grassroots organisations were told they were not allowed to invite their MP as Guest of Honor. I recall that in past years, it is usual for MPs to be invited.. If this report is true, I wish to ask if there has been a recent change of policy..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 22:02:53 GMT[The day curry became political] ... the argument in cyberspace got so heated and intense that Law Minister Shanmugam was compelled to speak up. But alas, when the Minister spoke up, his first instinct was to caution S'poreans against xenophobia, rather than protecting our cultural heritage and way of life (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 21:57:37 GMTCan someone explain to me.. What being a small country has to do with avoiding gridlock? How are bigger countries less affected by gridlock?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 21:48:24 GMTPM Lee: "We are too small to be able to afford impasse and gridlock, to have 2 sides blocking one another so you can't move, you can't solve problems, you can't go ahead. We have to work together. The govt is doing our part, WE NEED VOTERS, we need every citizen to do their part," (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 21:45:01 GMTExamine root cause of why xenophobia is gaining traction.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 21:38:17 GMTFormer British PM Tony Blair says the riots are caused by youths from 'profoundly dysfunctional' families (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 21:32:44 GMTLETTER OF ENDORSEMENT IN SUPPORT OF: Mr Tan Kin Lian's Candidacy for Singapore's Presidency -- Professor Dr Chang Chiu Cheng.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 16:36:55 GMTI attended the memorial of political attendee Tan Jing Quee. It was a useful visit... Some of the people who were detained do not appear to be security threats, so it seemed that their detention might have been unjustified. However, this is only one side of the story, so I shall keep an open mind.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 16:29:08 GMTLet us all put aside our differences and unite against Thorny Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 16:24:25 GMT[President isn't the Opposition] Dear ST: I refer to 19 Aug 2011 letter by Dr Bernard Ee. It is wrong to say political causes must be confined to political realm. If there is a breakdown in feedback between people's wishes and political causes, there is a need to re-establish that feedback through alternative mechanisms. The EP can be one such alternative.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 16:21:46 GMTDear Straits Times: I refer to 20 Aug 2011 letter. Mr Bobby Jayaraman points out that PAP had ample opportunity to plunder our reserves during its long, singular rein of S'pore. But not having plundered so far doesn't mean PAP will never plunder in the future. In fact, according to a report by Mr Leong Sze Hian.. the privatisation of state assets since 1999 can be considered 'raiding of reserves' by the govt.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 16:16:19 GMTYou've heard of the notorious ISD, there was also the SID. Then S R Nathan was Director of Security and Intelligence at Mindef. This little nugget doesn't get much airing in the msm. On 31 Jan 1974, the Shell Oil Refinery on Pulau Bukom was attacked by 4 terrorists.. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:59:42 GMTTONY TAN ALSO SUING TANG FOR DEFAMING HIM IN REPORT - 25 January 1997, SThttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:52:51 GMTThe Elected Presidency: More Of The Same, Or A Whole New Game?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:44:58 GMTFace to Face 2: Presidential Forum video Part 2.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:41:54 GMTTony Tan: Most 'urgent' task for next President is to 'work' with PAP govt.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:39:15 GMT"We have to work together. The govt is doing our part, we need voters, we need every citizen to do their part." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:33:50 GMT[Saddens me that Chen Show Mao was Barred from Event] From their recent walkabout, I am liking this WP team even more. They seem totally sincere in serving the people. What I respect most is their humility. I want my MPs to serve me and not lord it over me or lecture me constantly. And this WP team seems to genuinely enjoy interacting with us, and it's not just a chore to them.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:24:34 GMT[s the Paya Lebar CCC guilty of an offence under the Sedition Act?] It certainly looks like the message from PM Lee regarding a relook into how his party engages has not trickled down to its grassroots to date, almost 4 months after the GE.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:17:43 GMT[Kampung spirit] Many of you have asked me about today's news report that the CCC "does not give approval for residents to use venues," contrary to what I understand..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:12:19 GMTNow, Best Buy agrees to sell TouchPad for US$99 (businessinsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 15:08:45 GMTTan Kin Lian explains Tan Jing Quee memorial commotion.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:49:11 GMT"The veto is used to get results that are better for the people, and I won't want it to be used in a way that sounds confrontational." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:45:41 GMTState media censors Tony Tan's $59 billion loss while harping on Tan Kin Lian's investment failure.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:38:33 GMT[Dr Ang Swee Chai speaks to the BBC] Dr Ang recently spoke in BBC's Hardtalk. You can watch her and draw your own conclusion if Dr Tony Tan is right to call her a terrorist. She was arrested under the ISA in 1977.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:35:43 GMT[Campaign Poster - Thorny Tan] Vote for Thorny if you want a phony!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:31:21 GMT"S'pore needs a President with a steady hand, a broad perspective and a long term view - to sail through rough seas. This is what I can deliver to you with my years of experience with complex financial systems in the public and private sector." -- PAP-endorsed presidential candidate Tony Tan boasting about his 'credentials', 18 August 2011, CNAhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:23:54 GMTRevisited: Singapore's GIC losses about $50 billion.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:16:43 GMT[Ex-ISA detainee issues challenge to Dr Tony Tan] "I challenge Dr Tony Tan to categorically state that we are terrorists, so that we can have the opportunity to bring him to court and sue him for slander." -- Dr Lim Hock Siew, speaking at the Memorial for Tan Jing Quee (youtube)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:10:15 GMTEXPOSE #4: Did Patrick Tan 'serve' his reservist in MINDEF Reserve?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:06:20 GMT[Sorry, Dr Tan Cheng Bock, your letter is not impressive] What a disappointment! Without the strong PAP machinery, you can't even produce a proper letter.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 12:03:04 GMT[Singaporeans' culinary anti-immigration protest: curry] It takes a lot to start a mass campaign with political overtones in Singapore, but there's no better catalyst than food.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 11:52:59 GMT[With HP tablet dead, who can challenge Apple?] The sudden demise of HP's TouchPad after just 7 weeks on shelves was a reminder of how tech giants have failed so far to take a bite out of Apple Inc's iPad. The TouchPad joins Dell Streak 5 in the tablet graveyard and weak sales for many offerings suggest others are bound to follow ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 11:47:24 GMTDr Tony Tan maintained his view that the President's role is prescribed in the Constitution. "The President must work within the perimeters of the Constitution, as I've said. People must run for the post that exists today, not the post they might like to have. And you have to respect that. Whatever comments you make have to be within that constraint." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 11:28:36 GMTSg needs an "outspoken" President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 08:14:45 GMTThe next President must privately look at this issue with wisdom and understanding. He would not be able to change the law, but he must have the wisdom to prevent its misuse. It is clear to me that such a man cannot be TT or TJS. It is a choice between TCB and TKL (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 08:12:09 GMT[Tan Cheng Bock makes truckload of flyers] TCB facebook photo showing many pellets of mailers just off-loaded from containers. All ready. Did anyone notice how both TCB and TT don't have a donation button on their official websites? Million dollar salaries and pensions accumulated throughout the years of service as members of PAP is funding their respective campaigns.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 07:05:13 GMT[The Online Citizen's Tan Jing Quee memorial 20th Aug 2011 set] The memorial was attended by ex ISA detainees from the '63-64 wave of arrests.. (www.flickr.com)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 06:42:31 GMTThe Constitution explicitly states the President's powers, but circumstances such as people's expectations and the President's political acuity will go some way in charting new pathways for the highest office in S'pore, said constitutional law expert Kevin Tan and civil society activist Alex Au (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 06:34:40 GMT[The double paradox of the Elected Presidency] It is not hard to understand these 2 paradoxes when one delved deeper into the real partisan purpose of the EP - which is no more but a contingency plan for PAP if it loses power one day (Pamela Tien)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 06:24:50 GMT"If our economy doesn't do well, there won't be any revenue; there won't be any income at all for S'poreans. So we won't have the means to do any welfare at all. The scale of the problem is totally different. That's why I regard that as really the most urgent task for the next President - to work with the govt, in order to get through the next crisis that hits us." (216 comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 06:16:54 GMT"The Constitution does not say the president cannot connect with people; the constitution does not say the president cannot listen to people and bring their concerns to the govt... And this is what I want to do. ..have the courage to vote for me. And I will have the courage to do what has to be done." (mediacorp - youtube)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 02:30:19 GMTHow did the Tan Clan get caught in such a tricky situation to hurt the feelings of 3 for the good of 1? Their decision to support one Tan is very divisive. I thought it would be a wiser decision to support all 4 Tans and let the rest of the Tans vote for whoever they want. Can the other 3 Tans approach the Tan Clan for an explanation and endorsement? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 02:24:12 GMT[SGEP editor: redbean has put forward many good questions] MySingaporeNewshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 21 Aug 2011 02:16:27 GMT[Tan Jee Say and Tony Tan exchange on ISA ... ] Actually, TJS did not say ISA was used on people because they were "opponents" of the PAP. He said the people arrested were "political opponents" of the PAP. This assertion is factual.. It was Tony Tan's opportunity to show his independence, and he blew it.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 23:45:23 GMTYahoo! S'pore is awaiting response from PA after contacting them Saturday evening to comment on the incident. The PA was established as a statutory board on 1 July 1960 to promote racial harmony and social cohesion in S'pore. It has a network of 1,800 grassroots organisations.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 23:25:12 GMTThe video is self-explanatory.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 18:41:37 GMTSo what would Tan Cheng Bock do as he said he would also want to represent the People's Voice?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 17:12:39 GMTPresidential candidate Dr Tan Cheng Bock said it is not within the duties of the president to come up with proposals like pension schemes which have been suggested by other candidates... should not promise things that cannot be delivered under the constitutional powers of the president, or get involved in day-to-day politics (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 15:40:29 GMTChen Show Mao banned from attending 7th month dinners with residents by Paya Lebar CCC.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 15:33:54 GMT[A Message For All Singaporeans] Tony Tan is not the answer.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 15:31:33 GMT["It's fair to say that all of us recognise the fundamental importance of why the Graduate Mothers' Scheme was launched - to encourage better- educated mothers to have more children and to correct the lop-sided procreation pattern." - ex-Education Minister Tony Tan, March 1985, ST] Tony Tan now backtracked and claimed he 'abolished' the scheme because he 'disagreed' with it. So how did he justify its importance?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 15:28:26 GMT"I challenge Dr Tony Tan to categorically state that we are terrorists, so that we can have the opportunity to bring him to court and sue him for slander." - Dr Lim Hock Siew, speaking at the Memorial for Tan Jing Quee.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 15:24:54 GMT[Tan Kin Lian Rally] I will hold my rally on Wed 24 August 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm at Yio Chu Kang Stadium (next to Yio Chu Kang MRT station). Please give me your support ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 10:31:31 GMTThe People's (Dis)Association...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 10:21:04 GMT[Face to Face 2: Presidential Forum video Part 1] The moment you have been waiting for.... !!!!!!!!!!!!!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 10:14:27 GMT[Reasons for Growing Interest in the PE ...] There has been a political awakening of S'poreans during GE 2011. Voters started to question not just PAP policies but whether the govt's interests are aligned with their own. Even ST wrote about a "loss of trust". For this reason, voters look for candidates that are truly independent.. people don't want another President Nathan at this point in time.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 10:07:51 GMT[Netizens upset at Tony Tan's conduct during forum] When M'sian PM Najib visited London recently, he was greeted at his hotel by a group of protesters shouting at him to 'get lost!'. How will Tony Tan react in such a situation?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 10:01:08 GMT[Why 1987 ISA detentions still relevant to PE 2011] What we see in their responses to this question is almost like a huge spotlight on how they would play the role of president. At least one, if not two, would stay on the side of the govt when it comes to defending its record. The other two live up better to their claims of being independent, in the sense that there is no instinctive bias.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 08:04:22 GMT10 Reasons Why Not to Vote for Tan Cheng Bock.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 08:02:41 GMT... responded to a debate between candidates Tan Jee Say and Tony Tan at a forum, in which former SDP member Tan suggested that ISA "has been used on political opponents". Dr Tan Cheng Bock disagreed with the charge, emphasising the point that the PE should not be used as a platform to discuss "day-to-day politics" (Tan Weizhen, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 07:59:37 GMT[PM Lee should apologise to Dr Ang Swee Chai] Dr Ang, a prominent surgeon and author, has now written about her arrest and detention without trial under the ISA in 1977. She was one of at least 28 people, mostly professionals, who were arrested and labelled as Euro Communists by the PAP govt ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 07:52:51 GMT['Tribute to Tan Jing Quee' by Francis Khoo] I found this tribute in Teo Soh Lung's Facebook. I own a collection of Fajar which was the organ of University Socialist Club. The ideas and thoughts of the young men and women who were members of USC cuts through the decades, to speak to another generation of S'poreans who are now struggling to find answers to problems we face today.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 07:50:09 GMTInstead of doing some serious investigative journalism on the NS stint of Patrick Tan, the Straits Times continue to harass Tan Jee Say over the 'booing' saga on Nomination Day. Though Jee Say has already condemned the booing publicly, the state media carried an article today claiming that it has received letters from readers expressing their "dismay" at his response.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 07:45:38 GMT[It's never easy to remove the disappointment that was caused ...] Chen Show Mao barred from attending 7th Month event: The Paya Labar Citizen's Consultative Committee warned organisers that if they are "errant" by letting the MP attend, they will be rejected for future events.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 07:39:21 GMTA random check by [Malaysian National News Agency] Bernama showed many Singaporeans expressing hope that the new president should be someone independent, with a heart for the people (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 07:34:08 GMT"I think this is... to be fair, when one says this has been used against political opponents, I think this is a very serious charge." Lesser men would have crumpled at the undisguised threat, but political opponent Tan Jee Say was either too naive or simply caught unawares by the ferocity of Tony Tan's naked challenge (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 02:33:52 GMT16GB cut to US$99, 32GB US$149 (PreCentral)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 00:38:04 GMT[Moderate and independent] Mr Tan: If you have the chance, do discuss about pension of (parliamentarian) politicians. Does the "pension" scheme apply to those retired from Politics but took on other jobs (still active in employment)? These are all tax payers money!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 00:29:59 GMTJee Say's campaign poster 'smeared' at Chulia Street.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 20 Aug 2011 00:06:16 GMT[No Tan-tative winner in sight] Former DPM Dr Tony Tan had high approval ratings in an online poll when he announced his decision to run for President, but now he will seemingly face a tough fight. Next week's vote will be crucial for PAP. Prominent blogger redbean said Dr Tan's defeat would be "the clearest sign of change, that the wind in the PAP sail is off." (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 23:48:22 GMTMuch has been made of the need for the President to be independent of the ruling party ['Tan Jee Say: Providing checks and balances'] This logic is flawed. The real risk faced by S'poreans is if an untested party with no track record attains power. That is when links with PAP would turn out to be an advantage ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 23:05:51 GMTCan S'poreans vote in a presidential candidate who declares his "rebellious nature" as an asset, as Mr Tan Jee Say did ["Jee Say on his 'rebellious nature'"]? A president bent on having his own way is disruptive. Imposing views simply because he has a rebellious streak gives the impression of disunity within the corridors of power, and is undesirable.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 22:55:43 GMT[Ridiculous Untruths?] People trust you when you do what you say, and say what you do. No need to wear White! Pray tell if the following is another "ridiculous untruth" that "leads people astray"? Tony Tan said ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 22:48:19 GMTIn the past few days, there have been emotional reactions against foreigners who are reluctant to accept and adopt our way of life, but I see it more as a unified stand against legitimisation of intolerance. It is not directed at foreigners per se. So, let's not miss the wood for the trees. This is not xenophobia, and it certainly is not about a nation's love of curry (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 22:34:10 GMT'I was dismayed by yesterday's editorial ('Would you like some more curry?') which took a narrow stand. Yes, the mediator did not impose her views on the parties concerned, but would it not be correct to say that she facilitated the agreement?' -- LEE HIN PENGhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 22:25:21 GMT['Criticism should be directed against the hecklers, not Jee Say.' -- TAN SOON MENG] .. ['Isn't voting an individual's right and a personal choice?' -- DANIEL CHAN]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 22:18:01 GMT[Please stop telling union members to vote for Tony Tan!] I have been told by my union friends that they did not agree to endorse Tony Tan when they were told by their shameless union leaders to do so. It is a criminal offence for anyone to intimidate or unduly "force" someone to vote for a candidate against his wish.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 22:14:01 GMTWhile other candidates made promises... Yesterday, in response to a question on why he chose to refrain from making promises... the President is responsible for the exercise of custodial powers, and a "very fundamental" aspect of this is holding the "2nd key" to S'pore's reserves (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 21:54:29 GMT[Booing or Heckling outside S'pore] I have never seen footage of booing or jeering of political figures other than what I saw of Tony Tan being booed. So I decided to look for whether this happens elsewhere ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 21:19:18 GMT... following a heated exchange with Dr Tony Tan over the issue at a dialogue a day ago. "The situation has changed... there are other laws to take care of terrorism and other criminal activities. And other countries are doing it without ISA." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 21:09:24 GMTWe need to be clear on the role of the EP. Secondly, let us look at how each candidate can be a unifying force -- someone who is not pro- or anti-govt, but pro-S'pore. Let us examine their track record of serving the people. Finally, let us look not at what they can do but what they can be, as the EP of S'pore (Dr Patrick Kee - SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 21:03:49 GMTPresidential Candidate Tan Kin Lian's 1st Virtual Rally 19 Aug 2011 - Straight Talk with TKL - Voice of the People. [Serial parts are available after you view this link]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 17:29:54 GMT[People's President] Dear Mr Tan Kin Lian: I am keenly following this PE and I would like to give my brief take on the proceedings. I hope my perspective and general people's perspectives as onlookers from the outside would help in your campaign...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 15:22:28 GMT"If I were a MP, I'd be just one out of 80-over MPs and especially if you're a MP from an opposition party, whatever you bring up may not get the attention. But as the President, I think the issues I brought up would have better influence." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 15:18:03 GMT['Neutral and non-partisan' ways help: Tan Kin Lian] Despite the fact that he was once a member of the PAP from 1975 to 1985, he said that this association with the ruling party has "long been forgotten".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 15:12:34 GMTDear Ms Chua Mui Hoong: I refer to your 17 Aug 2011 ST article "Why the president is not a super-MP". You said raising expectations about what the president can do is a fundamental error of fact, and a gravely irresponsible act of politics. The fundamental error is in your insinuation that expectations are being raised. There is no need for expectations to be raised...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 15:05:49 GMTI am amused when I see institutional bodies tripping over themselves to throw their support behind a particular candidate, with the hazy claim of representing their entire constituency. The latest to do so is the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry. To begin with, who gave the SMCCI a mandate to speak on behalf of the Malay community? (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:59:47 GMTWho is to repent, Singapore or PAP, if Jee Say is elected?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:51:22 GMTEXPOSE #3: Was Patrick Tan's official vocation in NS a Chief Clerk?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:49:38 GMTGovt should be prepared for economic uncertainties: Tony Tan (209 readers' comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:45:19 GMT[Tan Jee Say and Tony Tan answer questions about ISA] Tan Jee Say may not have the best diction, but I thought he was brave to speak his mind. To be fair, I must add that it was good of Tony to turn up for TOC panel discussion knowing that hard questions would come his way. I was also impressed that Jee Say is not easily intimidated.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:41:52 GMTSupporters of PAP-endorsed presidential candidate Tony Tan has launched a vicious campaign against former PAP MP Dr Tan Cheng Bock after sensing that the latter may siphon enough votes from Tony Tan to deny him a victory or even embarass him at the polls next Saturday.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:36:58 GMTWhy is Tony Tan allowed to use the RC's property to hang his campaign banner? Did he pay rental for its use? Is this allowed? Are grassroots resources being mobilized to support his election campaign?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:32:20 GMTWatch the heated exchange here (196 readers' comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:27:13 GMTCNA's program 'Meet The Candidates' will see them articulate their views and take questions on issues relating to the Presidency. The candidates will be interviewed by Prof Tommy Koh, Mr Janadas Devan, and Ms Debra Soon (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 11:33:07 GMT[Tan Kin Lian plans a process to feed people's views into govt] It struck me that his ("Voice of the people") was not just a catchy slogan, but that he intended to realise it by giving it structure. In our conversation, we walked through how this might work in practice...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 11:06:09 GMTDear PAP lapdogs: a non-PAP-endorsed President does not make him an 'Opposition' President. Also, about the heckling, when did our politicians become so thin-skinned? Do you even bother asking why people heckled your most esteemed master? Dumb asses.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 03:53:12 GMTTan Kin Lian's first "live" online rally will be happening tonight from 9-10pm. He will be sharing with the audience why it is important for the President of Singapore to be the Voice of The People and how he will carry out this role as President if elected. Follow-up rallies will be held on Saturday and Sunday night. Click the link and bookmark it.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 03:34:25 GMT[Tony Tan is the problem, not the solution - Part 2] If Dr Tan missed the financial hurricane in 2008, despite all the thunder and lightning preceding it, how does he convince us now that he has the "background" and "knowledge" of the financial market to safely take us through the next storm?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 02:41:08 GMTMr Philip Yeo said those who bought games and other programs Apple's iPad were wasting their money on "all sorts of useless applications". Laymen who aren't dumb were quick to appreciate the usefulness of a free iPhone app called "Summon Auntie". With a minor tweak, and we have just the thing for the pimps at Geylang to forewarn the proximity of cops on prowl (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 02:35:57 GMTHow is Tan Kin Lian different from the other candidates?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 02:22:25 GMTIn a letter marked 'private and confidential'... a letter to vote for Tan Cheng Bock. I don't suppose he sent this to every voting household. It would cost a bomb. And I wonder where he got our names and address (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 02:15:56 GMT[Reader's comment: I was tottering between Tan Jee Say & Tan Kin Lian. Now I know I will vote for Tan Kin Lian. Why?.. ] Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 02:08:24 GMTDespite his constant trumpeting of his financial knowledge and experience, Tony Tan's 'track record' at GIC was far from impressive..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 01:58:59 GMT[The heckling] 'If Mr Tan Jee Say cannot control his supporters, how can we expect him to exercise control if he wins?' .. 'No leader should condone such deplorable behaviour.' .. 'The candidates are all S'poreans and should be respected.'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 01:51:07 GMTIn addition to holding veto power in 5 key areas, "it is also a centre of moral power as well," said presidential candidate Tan Jee Say at his walkabout outreach in Chinatown on Thursday evening (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 01:44:28 GMTThe campaign for the next EP has commenced, and what comes to mind is the relationship between the president, the gambler, and the fund manager. The gambler's cost is only himself. The fund manager pays all the top talents a fortune to place his bets. And when a fund manager loses big, he can go to the president for more money. What if the Elected President says no? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 01:33:51 GMT[The "Marxist Conspiracy" in 1987 was a pack of lies] I posed my question to Dr Tan Cheng Bock because I long to hear some kind words from him. Why haven't I asked Tony Tan the same question? Well, because I don't expect any answer from him (Neo Swee Lin)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 00:56:36 GMT[Did They Boo Tony Tan? Or Someone Else?] To Dr Tony Tan -- please don't take the booing personally. It's not you who's being booed. It's who's behind you, who supports you, who you were, what you did, what others did, and how the system works, that's being booed.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 00:43:40 GMT[Dr Tony Tan, do you know why you were booed?] In a nutshell, other candidates were cheered while you alone were booed because... (Ng E-Jay, SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 00:38:11 GMTSMCCI president Abdul Rohim Sarip said it was a close to unanimous decision by the 12-member exco. He declined to reveal reasons on why some did not want to endorse Dr Tan, but said it was not because they were rooting for other candidates [Don't miss Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 00:27:48 GMT[State Of The Elderly In Singapore]. More often than not, they are elderly members of our society who have unfortunately fallen through the cracks of our social safety net. The tenuous status quo cannot be conveniently overlooked in the long-run. Solutions must come from a variety of channels ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 00:21:18 GMT[CONCERN OVER BLURRING OF ROLES: President isn't the opposition]. It would be a grave mistake for any candidate to assume that he possesses the platform to check or even audit the ruling govt of the day. Political causes, no matter how noble they are, must be strictly pursued in the political realm.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 00:09:39 GMTIn more ways than one, the EP boosts features of a non-executive director... which Presidential Candidate's campaign offers elements of non-executive director? (Donaldson Tan, New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 19 Aug 2011 00:01:35 GMTA group of friends in S'pore have come together to organise a "cook and share a pot of curry" movement, and to declare this Sunday 'National Cook Curry Day' (TheStar, Malaysia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 23:49:18 GMT[Presidential Candidate Broadcasts: Memorable Moments]. The 4 Tans have given their Broadcasts in 4 languages. Some dubbed, some in their own voices. Some good, some bad, some ugly. Some a joy to watch. Some painful. We review the broadcasts, Oscar style!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 23:41:34 GMTEach Presidential candidate explains his campaign platform (New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 23:36:48 GMTWe are Singaporeans, and we love our curries, so don't you dare restrict us when we want to cook one (Charlene Fang, CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 22:50:35 GMTAs a British citizen who has lived and worked in S'pore for the past 20 years, I am delighted that President Nathan's role has extended beyond being head of state, and into the lives of the average S'porean (Dyslexia Association of S'pore - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 22:38:05 GMT[Multiracial joy at grassroots event]. In the midst of the entertainment, I thought about how many S'poreans like myself take our racially harmonious society for granted. We have indeed come a long way from the 1964 race riots.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 22:32:47 GMT[Why OpenNet installation takes 3 months]. Upon completion of the rollout for an estate, the contractors would be redeployed to carry on installations elsewhere... will impose additional charges on OpenNet when they are recalled to make connections.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 22:28:35 GMT[Figures should serve as an alarm]. I refer to the article "CDCs gear up for uncertain economic climate". That more S'poreans are seeking financial aid - despite good economic growth, job creation and wage increases - should serve as an alarm. At this rate, the number seeking assistance this year would be more than the 55,600 last year, and maybe the 62,300 in the 2009 recession year. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 22:07:43 GMTWe may eventually adopt rules similar to Australia's... foreign investors can only buy homes under construction. Once completed, these can only be sold to Australian citizens (Colin Tan, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 22:02:10 GMTAnalysts again cited reasons including worries about global growth and the eurozone debt crisis. Worried investors deserted riskier assets and sought out havens for their cash. The spot price of gold hit yet another record high of just below $1,829 an ounce (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 21:58:03 GMTTan Kin Lian on idea of Presidential Personal Councilhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 15:41:57 GMTKeep in touch with the people .. TKL nomination day speech .. Deferment of NS - tertiary education .. ST Presidential Rountable .. TKL interview with TOC .. National Service .. Donating half of the salary .. Voice of the People - adequate pension .. President Personal Council - Voice of the People.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 15:39:41 GMT[Time to rethink the process of electing the President?]. One suggestion made is for the people, and not the PEC, to decide who is eligible. Another suggestion to improve the process, which some have proffered, is to require the final winner of the PE itself to have received at least 50 per cent of the vote.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 15:32:28 GMT[Trusting the Mainstream Media]. I saw a curious ad in the online version of msm today.. perhaps it's there to counter the perception that msm is biased. It had the opposite effect on me. The breaking news coverage is excellent and prompt, but I feel that way only for stories that do not have a political element. Here are screenshots of the flashing ad ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 15:19:04 GMT[Using family for publicity - plus or minus?]. Nomination Day has come and gone. The campaign has begun. All the candidates have spouses and children. But who is making use of family more? Is it a plus or minus? Our guest writer takes a tongue-in-cheek look.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 15:10:05 GMTTo be the voice of the people: Tan Kin Lian (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 15:02:43 GMT'Focus on the President's true responsibilities': Tony Tan (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 15:00:08 GMTTo provide checks and balances: Tan Jee Say (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 14:58:05 GMTTo champion multi-racialism: Tan Cheng Bock (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 14:56:04 GMTSingapore's presidential candidates have shared their plans and reinforced their campaign platforms on national television in their 1st broadcast, a day after Nomination Day.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 14:00:30 GMT[Presidential Candidates - Your Numbers tell everything about yourself, personality and character]. Who will be the best candidate, and can manage and function for the people of S'pore, based on their Birth of Date and S'pore's Independence date, 9 August 1965? I would like to comment on the 4 candidates, and predict the outcome of Polling Day, 27 August 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 13:53:21 GMTThe likeable George Yeo could not imagine he could be bundled out of a GE. Don't be surprised if Tony Tan did not make it to Istana. But again, it has nothing to do with him.. a vote against the ruling party. Strange for me to look at the PE in this manner, as it is not meant to be partisan or political while my whole reasoning is about politics, nothing but politics (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 13:38:36 GMT[Grassroots members mobilized to support Tony Tan's election campaign]. The People's Association is supposedly a non-partisan apolitical statutory board under the S'pore govt, funded by taxpayers' monies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 13:31:38 GMT[The Machinery in Full Force]. I spotted Tony Tan posters up in full force with the theme 'Confidence for the Future'. You know what?...if not for all the propaganda, I would not be this negative. I can't help but feel this is a David and Goliath situation. It's obvious who has the most financial power behind their campaigns. I'm rooting for the underdog.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 13:27:33 GMT[EXPOSE #2: Patrick Tan was awarded President's scholarship only after he disrupted for overseas medical studies]. Patrick Tan was disrupted first, then given the scholarship. Chan Chun Sing, from the same batch, was disrupted only after he was awarded the scholarship to study in UK. Why was Patrick Tan allowed by MINDEF to disrupt when his scholarship was not confirmed yet?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 13:17:58 GMTTan Jee Say believes his message to voters has to be consistent so as to avoid confusing people. "Some of the people are confused already, that the President is a powerless position.. is just Head of State, you must have a nice looking guy, steady guy, wise guy to be Head of State. If that was the purpose, then they didn't have to amend the Constitution to allow the President to be elected..."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 13:07:46 GMT[A trivia about Singapore's Presidency]. Some interesting facts about Singapore's Presidents and the current Presidential candidates.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 13:01:13 GMTDr Tony Tan spent $24.2 billion of S'pore's hard earned reserves to buy UBS and Citigroup less than a year before the 2008 banking crisis struck. The billions of dollars he lost for S'pore may mean nothing or very little peanuts to him. However, billions of dollars mean far too much to every S'porean.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 04:52:25 GMTWill Cheng Bock withdraw from the race for the good of Tony?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 04:49:03 GMT[EXPOSED #1: No such vocation such as ''Defence Medical Scientist' in SAF]. "The researchers at DSTA and DSO are all full-time civilians. As far as I am concerned, I have never come across a NSF who has 'defence medical scientist' as his vocation, let alone serve reservists there."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 04:44:08 GMTLike it or not, the office of the EP is one which is based on a popular vote, thus making the president accountable to the citizens who voted for him, and despite the absence of executive powers, he carries with him a moral obligation to serve the interest of the people, in addition to the responsibilities already enshrined in the Constitution (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 04:40:20 GMTA letter from Mr Lim Lee Eng in support of Tan Kin Lian as EP candidate.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 03:29:22 GMTPresidential Election 2011 Nomination Day...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 02:30:38 GMTUSA Elections 2012 (cartoon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 02:26:56 GMTRumors casting doubts on Mr Tan Jee Say's character began to circulate on the Net right at about the time he was nominated to run for Presidential Election, resulting in msm reporters hounding Mr Tan for answers. Mr Tan decided to contact TRE. We present Mr Tan's rebuttal here .. (Editorial, Temasek Review Emeritus)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 02:22:54 GMT[Spirited exchange between Tan Cheng Bock and Tony Tan]. Dr Tony Tan shot back, in one of the most confrontational moments during the 2-hour forum: 'I did not say that. You are putting words in my mouth.' Dr Tan Cheng Bock countered: 'I don't think I'm putting words in your mouth. The audience here will be quite clear.'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 02:07:49 GMT[Tony Tan is the problem, not the solution - Part 1]. He wants our votes to make him president so that he can safeguard our reserves. Does this sound even remotely sensible? .. We will give S'poreans more reasons why voting for Dr Tan will have serious consequences for S'pore's economy and your well-being in Part 2.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 02:02:23 GMTHere are the 4 President hopefuls' thank you speeches at the nomination centre (dk.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 01:53:14 GMTMy bookie came to see me for guidance on the Presidential Race. So I took out a wash basin, filled it with holy water, threw in a few twigs of pomegranate leaves. Then I lighted 3 joss sticks and got into a prayer for my spiritual guide. The result of my spiritual trip was most enlightening. 50:50, a touch and go Presidential Race. How does this work out? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 01:39:23 GMT'Mahathir, I'm pretty sure the Opposition worked with EC to ensure they lose - you knew this and allowed them to get away with it. It makes perfect sense.' (MalaysiaKini)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 01:34:57 GMT[7 notable posts]. I've just been invited by Aussie Pete to participate in 'The 7 Links Blog Project'. For this project, bloggers from all over the world make a list of their top posts in a range of categories, creating a sort of one-stop shop for 7 notable posts from their blog.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 01:31:21 GMTThe issue of selecting students for admission is a complex challenge faced by medical schools around the world. Currently, there is no ideal tool. Medical schools can in some way reduce the number of complaints about erring doctors by instituting a robust system like the FTTP to weed out unsuitable individuals while they are still medical students (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 01:19:01 GMTI am told that some of the rich investors interested in the failed Red Knights bid to raise the money for a takeover bid came from Asia. S'pore-based businessman Peter Lim is thought to retain an interest and the Glazers might worry that a bloc of significant shareholders interested in building bigger stakes over time could lead to the sort of instability being witnessed at Arsenal (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 01:10:30 GMTAt a media briefing, Minister Shanmugam said, "We must affirm our S'porean identity and must protect it. (But) at the same time, let's not turn this into a xenophobic attack on foreigners in general." Right there, he used the "x" word. Hold on, mister, don't confuse nationalism with xenophobia (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 00:53:31 GMTIs the social media and free flow of information via digital technology good or bad? It depends on where it happens, and whom it affects (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 00:45:45 GMTThe Govt is currently making every attempt to reach out to S'poreans. Irresponsible posts by netizens and online chatrooms are a cause for concern. If left unchecked, such a negative tone may create mass hysteria and potential social unrest.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 00:41:21 GMTManipulating the 'First Past The Post' system...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 00:31:40 GMT[Which Tan has the Best PE Campaign Slogan?]. Dear Fellow Singaporeans: The race to the Istana is now on for 4 Tans. Would you want a President who gives you CONFIDENCE FOR THE FUTURE; is a VOICE OF THE PEOPLE; always THINK SINGAPOREANS FIRST; or one who is the HEART OF THE NATION? Vote wisely.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 00:23:26 GMTThe 4 candidates hit the campaign trail with distinctly different messages .. The lack of drama at the Nomination Centre belied the frantic horsetrading .. jeering from pockets of supporters marred Dr Tony Tan's 2-minute address.. candidates condemned the jeering (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 00:14:56 GMT[Winning margin irrelevant]. The number of votes an EP receives should be treated as history after the election. If the number of presidential aspirants increases in the future, it is better to tweak the eligibility criteria.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 18 Aug 2011 00:02:47 GMT[Presidental Election: The Heat Is On!]. It's amazing! It's even better than the NDP ! With the chorus of "Chiak Liow Bee" (Good for nothing), "Bullshit" and "Patrick Tan", Tony could still walked off the stage smiling. He could be hard of hearing, insensitive or simply doesn't give a fook!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 23:58:21 GMTWhat Tony Tan will focus on if elected as President [101 readers' comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 23:50:02 GMT[Courtesy cuts both ways]. PM Lee's plea for courtesy and respect struck a chord with me ('More cases of people being demanding)... If the Govt wishes to foster and strengthen the relationship with the people, govt agency staff, and particularly those in executive positions, should extend to others the same respect and courtesy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 22:37:29 GMT["I think Dr Tony Tan is eminently qualified and a very good candidate.."]. Although PM Lee said the govt will not endorse any presidential candidates this time, the words he used clearly showed the govt endorsing Dr Tony Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 22:12:07 GMT[President Personal Council - Voice of the People] Dear Mr Tan: I would like to hear your views on Singapore citizens with mental disabilities e.g. agoraphobia ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 22:06:23 GMTI'm not championing Opposition's cause: Tan Jee Sayhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 22:00:48 GMTThe 4 Presidential Candidates were subjected to a series of difficult questions by senior journalists from Singapore Press Holdings (videos - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 21:55:15 GMT[Never a surprise judgment or one-sided outcome in mediation]. As volunteer mediators, we thought it would be good to add our perspectives and perhaps shed some light on what the mediation process is all about ... (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 21:42:09 GMTWe refer to recent media interest in the re-employment of retiring teachers (Letter from MOE, S'pore Teachers' Union, S'pore Chinese Teachers' Union, S'pore Malay Teachers' Union, S'pore Indian Teachers' Union) ST Forumhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 21:38:06 GMT[Time to set up a 'Truth and Reconciliation Commission' and abolish the ISA]. When Nelson Mandela was released after 27 years, he went on to become the President of S. Africa. A Truth and Reconciliation Commission was set up to investigate the atrocities committed by the past govt. Can we in S'pore ever expect such a Commission to be set up to investigate all ISA cases? Will I be able to see the repeal of ISA during my lifetime?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 16:32:44 GMTTOC speaks to Presidential Candidate Tan Kin Lian (Part 2)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 16:22:47 GMTIt is a matter of fact voters choose the president. It is also a matter of fact, not opinion, the role of the president is determined by the Constitution, not voters for the presidency .. The presidency is not a blank canvas onto which candidates or voters can project their fantasies (Chua Mui Hoong, ST - News Clips)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 16:17:45 GMTTemasek is selling 253.5 million shares in Thailand's Shin Corp at between 35.5 and 37.25 Thai baht a share, in a deal that could raise up to 9.44 billion Thai baht [US$316 million]. A Temasek spokeswoman in Singapore declined to comment (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 16:07:20 GMT[Presidential elections nomination day] This is not an essay, but just a collection of photos (with commentary) I took at the People's Association HQ on King George's Road which had been designated as the nomination centre.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 13:19:28 GMT[Tony Tan booed by crowd on Nomination Day] Tony Tan: "... with S'pore facing complex challenges, I felt compelled to offer my services to you, your families and S'pore once again" .. Singaporeans: "jiak liao bee! jiak liao bee! jiak liao bee! Patrick Tan! Patrick Tan! Patrick Tan!"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 13:11:53 GMT[Tony Tan Boo-ed!]. Even though this is a very crude video, it reflects certain sentiments. But oh well, without a media offensive by the other candidate, Tony Tan is bound to win. PS: see how the media subtly try to show that tony tan has supporter, and had the booing angled to the "Tan Jee Say" supporter.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 13:06:31 GMT[A largely ceremonial presidential post has some real candidates]. In all likelihood, the PAP's preferred candidate will prevail. Yet already this presidential campaign has produced a victory of sorts for the PAP's opponents... (Asia Sentinel)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 13:01:22 GMTTOC speaks to Presidential Candidate Tan Kin Lian (Part 1)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 11:49:05 GMTTan Kin Lian for President - Wall.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 11:47:23 GMTHe said he hoped S'poreans would listen to all 4 presidential candidates. One issue close to his heart was education. And although PM Lee had again endorsed him yesterday, Dr Tan stressed he was running as an independent candidate (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 11:42:25 GMT[About Tony Tan Getting Booed]. I felt so sorry for his poor wife as she tried to smile away the discomfort. But someone I discussed this with had another view. PAP ministers have always had people lining up and clapping for them, so they are unused to this brutal, honest type of feedback. They are paid loads, and people have a right to express their displeasure, otherwise it's not a democracy. He felt this is, in fact, progress..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 11:33:52 GMTSingapore Presidential Elections 2011: An Idiot-Proof Guidehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 11:22:22 GMTWhat I am going to say is this: Don't just follow the crowd, don't be cowed by the apparent show of support for a particular candidate. Instead, listen to what each candidate has to say, read about them as much as you can, get to know them [if you don't already] and follow your heart [and informed mind] when it comes to casting your vote... (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 11:20:10 GMT4-cornered fight for Presidency [285 readers' comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 11:08:36 GMTMr Tan Kin Lian said he looks forward to a constructive relationship with PM Lee, should he be elected. He added he wants to follow in the footsteps of the late former president Ong Teng Cheong. "(Mr) Ong knows his duty as a president, to safeguard the reserves; he did his best to act independently and to ask questions... I will follow his example."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 11:03:44 GMTSingapore's presidential candidates are using new media in a big way (New Straits Times)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:58:29 GMTTemasek Holdings did not reveal its portfolio in 'clarification' to rebuke Tan Jee Say.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:54:55 GMT[At a REACH forum - for the 1st time]. I would encourage those who aren't too fond of the govt or the PAP to attend these forums if they have the opportunity, in the same way I would encourage govt fans to attend forums by others too. It really does give one a better perspective on things, at least from the other vantage point.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:36:48 GMT[Tan Jee Say wants to be govt's auditor]. When asked about an earlier incident where his supporters had reportedly jeered at Tony Tan, Mr Tan said he felt it was not "correct"... he could not control the crowd as it was made up of mixed groups of supporters... he would address this issue with his supporters.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:27:23 GMT[Migrating from the lunatic fringe to cowboy towns]. I have written excessively for such a small segment of the Rally. But I write this because continuing to marginalise online voices as noise will not make us go away. So in the spirit of being constructive, I will share my views on a few key points. I hope some bright eye and listening ear will pick this up and do justice to S'pore netizens..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:22:56 GMT[More union clusters endorse Dr Tony Tan for EP]. Transport and Logistics Services Cluster, Marine and Machinery Engineering Cluster, and Infocomm and Media Cluster.. together represent some 112,000 members.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:13:37 GMTEat A Pot of Curry!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:10:03 GMTShanmugam clarifies 'curry issue' [185 readers' comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 10:08:22 GMT[The Experiences Of A Tax Payer] "It was only a few months ago when S'pore's property tax rate of 4% applies for owner occupied unit. It was only with increasingly higher annual value (AV) and property tax which we had been paying at 10% AV that we started to question and found out that we had been paying the excess 6% since year 2000."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 09:29:23 GMTMuch more than a case of raising funds where cash is plentiful, Manchester United's plan to seek US$1 billion on Singapore's stock market is a marrying of financial sense and global supporter sentiment -- and a resounding indication of where the club sees future growth (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 09:22:40 GMTWhy I intend to vote for Tan Jee Say (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 04:37:54 GMT[Response to PM Lee's views on the Presidential election]. I thank PM Lee for his insightful statement that the Govt will work with whoever's elected. I have always been on record that I am neither pro-PAP nor pro-Opposition.. and I am above politics. Unlike the other candidates, I have never participated in a general election under a banner of a political party!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 04:32:02 GMTDr Tony Tan resigned his posts in order to contest in the EP. He was coy about his reasons for participating but claimed he had 'no choice', as 'national interest is there' and he was, in effect, duty bound. But let me straighten this out for the rest of us doubting Thomases. This is what I believe is, honest to goodness, the case ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 04:22:56 GMT[PM Lee endorsed Tony Tan again: He is 'eminently qualified']. For the 3rd time in less than a month, PM Lee reaffirmed his staunch support for former PAP minister Tony Tan, a 100% PAP man from top to bottom and inside out.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 04:07:14 GMTGovt will work with Elected President: PM Lee [156 readers' comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 04:02:01 GMTIt is sufficient to remember that the President's main task is to represent the country as head of state.. vote for a candidate whom we can be proud of to represent us in the international community.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 03:58:46 GMTWhy the president is not a super-MP. [SGEP Editor: Don't miss Readers' Comments] Chua Mui Hoong, Straits Times, 17 August 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 03:55:02 GMTWhat is uppermost in people's minds is the power to go against the govt to protect the reserves. Now we are told, or warned, or implied, or kind of threatened, that if the EP is to go against the govt, like saying no to spending the reserves, he will be removed. Put it simply, why have an EP in the first place? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 03:25:04 GMTNDR 2011 .. He looks more battered every year.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 03:16:42 GMT[Law Ministry Should Share Blame]. An issue as sensitive as this would never have been allowed to fester for more than a week under the watch of his predecessor and mentor, Professor S Jayakumar.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 03:09:42 GMTSuddenly, it's crystal clear how Partrick Tan... Suddenly, we can see clearly now how Tin Pei Ling... Suddenly, it makes perfect sense why China gal Xiao Yifei... The magic, people, is to "find the right rule" (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:43:17 GMTPrime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's National Day Rally address on Sunday was well delivered.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:29:36 GMTPrime Minister Lee Hsien Loong deserves praise for a masterful National Day Rally speech on Sunday.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:26:52 GMTSome opposition parties on Tuesday welcomed policy adjustments announced during the NDR but felt more could be done to tackle the hot-button issues (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:23:21 GMT[Xenophobia - where are the opposition parties and opinion leaders?]. I feel that opinion leaders - at whatever levels - have a responsibility to speak out against such sentiments. And in this, I feel the opposition political parties - particularly WP - must say something about this to persuade S'poreans not to resort to violence. I am pointing out WP for several reasons ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:12:12 GMT[More Comprehensive Evaluation Of Public Transportation?]. Future evaluations would have to take into account service satisfaction levels at varying time periods and also at different locations.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 01:05:24 GMT[Tax the super-rich, or riots will rage in 2012] Commentary: 6 reasons U.S. can't stop coming economic meltdown.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 00:58:46 GMTIs this dragged-out downturn a chance for big changes in the U.S. economy, like Warren Buffett's proposal to narrow the rich-poor divide through higher taxes on the very rich? As the U.S. recovers, should it be less dependent on consumer spending? Or could unemployment push the American work force toward shorter workweeks, like the European norms? (5 experts share their views - NYT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 00:54:43 GMT[Over 30,000 S'porean elderly to work to death: Research]. Among elderly, only 5 percent of men and 1 percent of women rely on CPF payouts.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 17 Aug 2011 00:49:21 GMTPresidential hopeful Tan Jee Say stated that he would encourage the divestment of govt ownership in GLCs and break up Temasek Holdings ['President must address govt economic strategy: Tan Jee Say']. Why does Mr Tan wish to do so? These companies and their investments belong to Singaporeans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 22:37:29 GMTTemasek's share of economy around 10% (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 22:33:51 GMTIt is natural that senior and top-level management positions at banks, insurance companies and MNCs are occupied by foreigners because they bring in money and expertise to invest in S'pore ["PM praised, question raised" by Mr Patrick Tan]. We just don't have the experience and expertise in managing a global financial industry.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 22:30:35 GMT[Surely locals can lead our companies]. Why are foreign MNCs better able than home-grown corporations to spot and appoint local talent to key posts? (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 22:21:12 GMTIt's Nomination Day for Singapore's Presidential Election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 22:14:59 GMTS'porean authorities would regard the arrival of Manchester United - the most famous name in English football - as a coup. The Glazer family, who owns Man U, thinks they'll get a higher price for their asset in S'pore (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 21:54:11 GMTThe Beef House, located in an old coffeshop at 217 Syed Alwi Road, just opposite WP's HQ, serves the best Hakka beef ball noodle, abacus seeds and yong tau foo I have ever tasted at any hawker stalls in S'pore. I am pretty sure Low Thia Khiang, Sylvia Lim, Chen Show Mao.. must be regular patrons of stall, given the close proximity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 21:42:08 GMTAugust Fundraising ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 16:55:58 GMTDr Wong Wee Nam demonstrates the correct way to shake hands.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 16:40:12 GMTBeing a foreign talent is not only about bringing in skills, knowledge, expertise and technology that locals lack. It is also about integration (Faisal Wali, New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 16:36:39 GMT[National Day Rally forum held] The issue of 'Singaporeans First', whether in jobs, housing or education, is what is weighing on many Singaporeans' minds. This is according to a poll by the govt's feedback unit REACH, on the top themes that captured its contributors' attention at Sunday's NDR.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 16:31:51 GMTIs there a turn of luck for Dr Tony Tan? George Yeo Number 2.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 16:22:41 GMT[An apology to Prof Alfred Huan] I received an email from Prof Alfred Huan requesting that I delete all references to him in a previous post.. and I have done so. However, some people had already commented on the post and I feel it does not violate his privacy if I were to republish them here. Here are some of the more interesting comments posted ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 16:16:08 GMT[Rebutting Temasek Review's "Singapore is actually bankrupted by the GIC and Temasek"] This article was posted on Davian Lee's FB page, in response to an opinion piece published on TRE ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 16:10:01 GMT[The New Paper talks about PM's comments on cyberspace and TOC...] "TOC is dubbed 'sheriff of the cowboy town' by The Straits Times for its efforts to maintain a culture of tempered political discourse in its forums", writes TNP. Now you know why we have the sheriff's badge as our profile pic.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 15:57:29 GMTResponse to National Day Rally Speech (Hazel Poa, Sec-Gen)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 15:52:10 GMTResponse to National Day Rally Speech (Hazel Poa, Sec-Gen)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 15:34:24 GMT[All the President's Men - Taking a closer look at the Council of Presidential Advisers] The constitutional role of the CPA, which surprisingly has not been closely examined in the ongoing public debate about the actual role of the EP, cannot be underestimated. The existence of the CPA in effect means that the EP's blocking powers are not unfettered.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 12:24:03 GMTManchester Utd plans US$1bln Singapore IPO by year-endhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 12:11:13 GMT[Juggernaut: A book this govt would wish you avoid] I would judge this as one of the most important books I have read this year. There is no mention of S'pore, LKY or PAP, but it will explain the hows and whys of S'pore most lucidly.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 12:01:17 GMT[Tan Jee Say: I did not suggest closing down factories] "Obviously during the GE, my views were distorted and then they said I want to close down factories. I did not say those things."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:55:32 GMT'Not true' that NTUC Income didn't intend to privatise - Tan Kin Lianhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:45:12 GMT[Highlights from the NDR - Part 2] To many, NDR is a boring speech which, sadly, failed to bore me to sleep. So here are the interesting highlights ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:39:09 GMTWP's Statement on PM's NDR Speech 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:36:04 GMTShanmugam clarifies "curry case" .. urged S'poreans to see things in perspective.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:27:15 GMTWP's Statement on PM's NDR Speech 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:19:25 GMT[Britain 'must reverse moral collapse'] That's the message that has been spewing out of the upper class in the UK, and even some stupid middle-class S'poreans who are studying/residing in the UK. So far, only PM David Cameron is making some sense publicly.. But it's not gonna make him a popular politician, and he will be gone soon.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:17:09 GMTFumbling Penny caught in a whammy...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:11:04 GMTNational Day Rally Speech.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:09:33 GMTPM Lee has said that getting a Certificate of Eligibility to contest the Presidential Election does not necessarily mean that candidates are all "equally qualified to be President" .. Mr Lee reiterated the role and responsibility of the President under the Constitution. In all other areas, the President must act in accordance with the advice of the PM and Cabinet ... (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 11:02:01 GMT[Review of media censorship policy gives positive image to country] "Censorship will make people angry because they want to get accurate information. With current technologies, the objectives of censorship won't be achieved."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:59:31 GMTCould socio-political bloggers be the answer to PM Lee's call? [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:48:55 GMTFrom Nomination Day tomorrow [Aug 17], right through to Polling Day on Aug 27, MediaCorp will cover the entire process and produce a slate of programs for the Presidential Election .. (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:31:04 GMT[Maids here are happy, survey says, but survey really didn't discover that] What's wrong with it? On the face of it, you wouldn't have too much reason to suspect anything amiss about the survey. Neither did I, until I dug deeper and saw one chart ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:16:54 GMT3 months after GE 2011, Dr Vincent Wijeysingha and SDP team have resumed ground work last Sunday by visiting Ghim Moh housing estate, which is part of the Holland-Bukit Timah GRC.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:15:03 GMT[Cooling-off day violation: Nicole's case is completely different from Tin Pei Ling's case] The police's mentioning of the 2 cases side-by-side implied that they were of similar nature, and with statements like ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:08:08 GMT[PAP grassroots leader lodged police report against netizens for 'threatening' him] PAP member and grassroots leader Stephen Tan has lodged a police report against netizens for 'threatening' him. Mr Tan has earlier written an article titled "Time to reflect upon ourselves instead of blaming foreigners" which was published in TRE on Monday.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 10:03:50 GMTThe police have issued a list of 9 rally sites for the Presidential Election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 05:09:48 GMT[PAP Tyranny Rule the Presidential Election] We should acknowledge that the EP of S'pore is unlikely to be able to do much to check the PAP govt. But this only reminds us of the importance of not letting PAP have its way all the time. We preserve some dignity by trying, despite the impossibility of triumph (Chuan Lee Kenny)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 05:05:43 GMTNetizens, those whom PM Lee signalled the need to better engage with, met Sunday's NDR speech with a mix of emotions ranging from cautious optimism to outright distrust (189 readers' comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 04:56:48 GMT[The intervention by CMC suggests its tacit agreement to the sensibility of the issue: that cooking curry is a problem] It takes 2 hands to clap - toleration should be a norm adopted within society, and practiced by both immigrants and locals alike (Tng Ying Hui, Asian Correspondent)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 04:51:57 GMT[Spread this message - My Vision for Singapore] My Fellow S'poreans: Please watch this video ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 03:55:12 GMT[Presidential hopeful Tan Jee Say: I'm not a 'yes man'] Can a non-PAP man become president in Singapore?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 03:50:50 GMT"Straight Talk with Tan Kin Lian" will be broadcast 'live' on the following dates and times... Viewers are invited to provide feedback and ask questions, in the comfort of their own homes, to learn more about Mr Tan Kin Lian ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 03:29:18 GMT[Shanmugam now says: President has 'very significant' powers] One week after making insensitive comments seen as denigrating the Office of the President, PAP Law Minister Shanmugam is still busy clearing up the mess left behind from the PR fallout ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 02:00:43 GMT[Factors that count for a dignified election] The most important one is how intensively the issue of role and powers of the EP will be played up during campaigning. To be "people's voice" is a very attractive notion, but these may fall outside purview of the president. The more ignorant voters are, the more "people's voice" strategy may be played up and thus, generate more controversy ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 01:52:05 GMT[Voters' perception matters on Aug 27] The Govt has said that an EP should not overstep into its purview and most experts and think tanks agreed with the Govt's stance at a recent forum discussion. But on Polling Day, it is the version understood and believed by voters that matters most. How similar or different is this version compared with the Govt's and the think tanks'?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 01:47:48 GMTRecently our own cyber sleuths uncovered the preferential treatment meted to an ex-Minister's son and a molly-coddled female politician... Now's a good time to make friends with your PRC classmate or colleague - he may teach us a thing or two about how to use the Human Flesh Search Engine vigilante tool. Aren't you just dying to find out if the mysterious "Denise" character is a "he" or a "her"? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 01:18:41 GMTThe unions were "heartened" by a comment by Dr Tan made to the media last Friday, where he said his stand was that S'pore needed to prepare to avoid large-scale layoffs. "As the sector is typically the most vulnerable to swings in the global economy, union leaders are concerned with regard to who becomes elected as S'pore's next President," said the unions. "With Dr Tan's wisdom and expertise..." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 16 Aug 2011 00:06:24 GMT[Pragmatism v Populism: A Deliberately Misleading Choice] In his remarks on the Presidential Contest, ESM Goh was quoted as saying that S'poreans must choose between pragmatic and populist politics.. It is funny how gratification delay is always something that should apply to ordinary S'poreans and not to our govt elite. For example.. (Kenneth Jeyaretnam)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 23:57:15 GMT[Let us use curry to educate ...] As a S'porean, whilst I was not pleased about the (family who went to CMC to ask neighbors to stop cooking curry) incident, I know I cannot use it to judge all foreigners here.. let us use curry to unite and not divide. Let us use curry to educate. If there are a few bad eggs, no problem. Just do not use them in the curry (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 23:45:22 GMT[Uni population: Give total percentage of non-citizens] It was mentioned in PM's NDR speech Sunday that foreign students at Uni's here is 18 per cent. I estimate the percentage of non-S'porean students to be more than 40 per cent.. how much funding a year is given to non-S'poreans, and how much direct funding is given to S'poreans?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 22:38:15 GMTOver the long term, S'poreans will benefit, according to some pundits (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 22:34:08 GMT[PM praised, questions raised] First, while the Govt is raising the salary levels for foreign professionals seeking an employment pass, what steps are being taken to develop S'poreans to assume higher management positions? .. Second, the Govt has not explained why so many mainland Chinese are occupying low-income jobs (Patrick Tan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 22:30:58 GMT[Patching up holes as we go along] There is nothing "epochal" - or even momentous - about PM Lee's speech on Sunday night. It is unfortunate that he did not paint any new futures with the "fresh clean slate" which he was presented with after GE 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 20:57:31 GMT[National Day Rally : A few tweaks but where is the vision?] Merely softening the edges of policies and not making fundamental change will not get us very far. 4 years from now, the people will feel that little has been done and by then, those who had given PAP a chance in the last GE may run out of patience waiting for real change.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 20:55:22 GMT[Not exceptional enough?] Ok, I thought I would spend just one post on the Dr Patrick Tan NS affair, but something turned up such that I couldn't resist writing about it. Indeed, it's hard to avoid the conclusion that exceptional talent and ability are much more likely to sway the minds of MINDEF personnel granting deferment and military posting if the individual also happens to be related to the right people. Oh well. Life is unfair.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 16:47:30 GMT[PAP of the old days] Mr Tan: I am 64 yrs old and, like you, supported PAP policies in the 70s, 80s. Just because of your previous PAP membership, those who do not know your background well enough just simply lump you as also one of the ex-PAP people ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 16:38:31 GMTThe President must be your voice - to safeguard the people's money in the investments of your CPF, Temasek Hldgs and GIC. He must be your voice - to make sure top govt servants appointed must have integrity and competence. He must be your voice - to make sure these 2 constitutional roles must be carried out without fear or favour.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 16:33:29 GMT[PE2011 Constituency Support] Each Presidential candidate will try to draw votes across S'pore. Some will do better than others, depending on constituency. Which area will give the strongest support to each candidate? FIND OUT MORE ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 16:27:10 GMT[Has the PM run out of ideas?] To me, the NDR did not reflect a PM speaking from a position of power. It reflected a PM frightened and bullied by the electorate. If these are the kinds of things that the PM is going to champion for the next 5 years, the only real change likely to happen is the PM himself, or the govt in power.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 16:22:29 GMTNational Day Rally 2011. Captions, anyone?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 16:14:35 GMTOf all the unions, I'm most surprised Teachers' Union is supporting Tony Tan. Teachers are moral compasses. Through them will come the new leaders of S'pore! As much as their Union gen-sec has endorsed Tony Tan, I would earnestly urge teachers to know more about Tony Tan before blindly casting their vote just because Edwin said so. Does Edwin Lye and those in MOE know about ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 15:14:57 GMTI refer to the article "When a charity's business does too well..." The 7 per cent GST and 18 per cent corporate tax rate, if waived for charities, may go a long way towards enabling them to do more for their beneficiaries. When GST was last raised from 5 to 7 per cent, the reason given was that it was to help needy S'poreans. Shouldn't there be an accounting of how the estimated $2 billion GST increase has been utilised to help the poor?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 13:48:39 GMT[Three Tans and The TAN] If on nomination day all 4 Tans contest, Dr TCB stands the best chance of winning. My own hope is that the Three Tans come to a consensus and two of them give way, so that it would be a straight contest between TT and another Tan. The result would be clear. The next President would not be TT ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 13:30:42 GMT[Political neutrality is important] Good day Mr Tan: I follow your internet website news updates daily and I can feel your earnest sincerity to represent us, the common S'poreans. There is a debate going on about the candidates' political affiliations. We have candidates from PAP and SDP but you are truly neutral and untainted with the dirtiness of political agenda..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 13:20:37 GMT[Why parts of PM Lee's Speech made me feel Chastised] One part where I particularly felt chastised is when PM Lee referred to blogs and dialogue spaces on the internet, as cowboy towns.. I was also pretty miffed about being implored to not be materialistic, and to be idealistic and dream instead.. In reference to PM's challenge, I want to be exceptional, but in terms of Happiness, like Bhutan..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 13:05:55 GMT[Highlights from the NDR - Part 1] To many, NDR is a boring speech which, sadly, failed to bore me to sleep. So here are the interesting highlights ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 12:55:40 GMTPresidential hopefuls, MPs welcome PM Lee's speech [SGEP Editor: Don't miss the Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 12:50:58 GMTThe unbashful boastful shameful...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 09:51:04 GMTPAP-endorsed presidential candidate Tony Tan has taken a jibe at his opponents for writing 'blank cheques' to Singaporeans in order to win votes.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 09:49:06 GMTThe President's powers are significant, especially now that S'pore faces a potential economic downturn, said Law Minister K. Shanmugam.. the President's role is important because he has the final say on whether the govt can tap on the reserves during such situations [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 09:46:05 GMT'Tan Kin Lian' on Wikipedia.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 06:56:49 GMTIt is time the govt review the CPF/Medisave contributions for the old folks. Stop bullying them and taking their money against their wills (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 06:51:51 GMT[Nothing new in NDR speech] Was there really a dramatic policy turnaround in what he proposed? I decided to take a closer look. It turns out that most of the changes have either already been announced before, or were strongly hinted at (Update: The state media is in a frenzy spinning the NDR speech as something refreshing. Look at the headline 'Policy changes to put S'poreans first')http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 06:38:48 GMTErm... Just in case you thought PM Lee was announcing something new in his National Day Rally Speech 2011 with regards to foreign-workers polices, do be reminded that the raising of S-pass and Employment Pass minimum income thresholds was already announced prior to GE2011 ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 06:28:36 GMTMassive ST propaganda with 22 articles on PM Lee's National Day Rally.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 06:23:04 GMT[W!ld Rice] I think there are many things that can be expressed through theatre without offending prevailing sensitivities. W!ld Rice has been so effective in its work that NAC wanted to send a negative message to W!ld Rice about this, so it snipped the funds it gives W!ld Rice last year. Donors like me wanted to send a message to NAC, so we increased our donations. Perhaps, the Govt now realises ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 06:04:06 GMT[We say... you say] We say we want integration, you say you did not ask them not to cook curry. We say we cannot afford more children, you say in that case, bring in the foreigners. We say hdb is expensive, you say it is affordable. We say healthcare is expensive, you give us an example that $8 was all the cash paid for a major operation. We give you feedback, you say.. Aiya...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 05:55:13 GMT[To my kids: Avoid working for the govt] The reason I made this post is to use it as an example to illustrate the culture of the civil service. If you want to be good, accountable and fit to compete anywhere, avoid joining the civil service.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 05:41:18 GMT["This PM speaks like a friend. He tells his buddy what he is doing to fix their joint problems. He is encouraging and positive... PAP ministers are clearly responding to the new mood of the electorate. PM's Rally speech marks a start." - Chua Lee Hoong, ST's Review Editor, 15 August 2011] Are you impressed?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 05:37:07 GMT[PM's NDR calls for more rational online spaces] One thing that will have to change is PAP's politics of intolerance, which has contributed to polarisation of debate in S'pore. The govt will need to find within it the capacity to respect the rightful place of independent bloggers as curators and mediators of S'pore's online politics (journalism.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 05:21:36 GMT[Stick Market Turmoil - fear as opportunity? Part 3] In the shorter term, I believe the picture is clearer. All it takes for a short term rebound in stock is for investors to calm down from their "chicken licken sky is falling" state... courageous value investors will find it hard not to return to the market, given valuations have reach near compelling levels. In the longer term, I believe the system has to be drastically changed ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 05:18:26 GMTForget the Constitution, it's the people's choice, stupid! .. voters pick who will best represent them, not who will unify them. The late President Ong didn't earn the title of the People's President until he has proven his independent streak.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 05:07:07 GMTTony Tan said he fears some candidates contesting the PE are writing cheques that even the President cannot cash. Dr Tan also expressed concerns that some politicians may feel compelled to appeal to popular demand for the sake of electoral gain. This temptation is affecting the PE with some candidates appealing to the public in ways that could go beyond the parameters of Singapore's Constitution (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 04:58:46 GMT[For Singapore, there is no win-win effect to elect Dr Tony Tan as President] Does the govt really need another economist-cum-mathematician's help to understand the world economy and a 'perfect storm'? Voters should ask themselves which is better - a mathematical feedback or a human feedback?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 03:05:38 GMTI know who I will vote for come 27 August but even with this certainty, I hope that the Tan I want to see in the Istana (and for sure I am not going for the establishment-preferred candidate) will continue to give me and the rest of the S'pore electorate a good reason to choose him over the others .. as suggested by ESM Goh, I would put a premium on the level of trust I get from the candidate (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 03:00:10 GMT[Obsessive-compulsive behaviour (again) in presidential contest] So-called labour unions that next to never appear in respectable daylight, suddenly raise their spectral arms to wave their endorsement of Tony Tan. Perhaps PAP is acutely aware of the risk .. Perhaps the parade of phantoms signals a slowly rising sense of panic.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 02:54:02 GMT[Factors that count for a dignified election] The most important one is how intensively the issue of role and powers of the EP will be played up during campaigning. To be "people's voice" is a very attractive notion, but these may fall outside purview of the president. The more ignorant voters are, the more "people's voice" strategy may be played up and thus, generate more controversy ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 02:50:51 GMT[A Presidential Election And Its Benefits: A Young Singaporean's Perspective] Positive advantages for young S'poreans: 1st, the pool of info available allows more to be properly cognisant of the authority of the EP; 2nd, interest on current affairs would be maintained; 3rd, a healthy culture of dialogue and feedback would be continued ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 02:41:36 GMT[The Power to Inspire: Transcript of 1988 TV Debate on the Elected President Proposal] The 1988 TV debate on the EP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 02:38:06 GMTThe Council of Presidential Advisers's fundamental role is to advise and make recommendations to the president on certain key issues. The following are the current members of the council .. (Bhavan Jaipragas - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 02:33:18 GMTIf the Internet were cowboy towns ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 02:15:31 GMTIt was a National Day Rally, but the tone of the Rally could be more a result of post election effect. And the citizens must thank the result of the last GE for such changes to take place, Maybe another 10% swing in popular votes in the next GE could see more substantial changes to benefit the people (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 01:58:58 GMTThe ISD plant in the msm, namely Chua Mui Hoong, found the tone of the NDR speech too conciliatory. Her younger colleague went further to deem it condescending. Showing video clips of a Transformer Bumblebee instead of the BBC footage of fiery London says it all - the driver definitely needs to wake up (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 01:27:48 GMT[Tan Jee Say: Increase in foreign labour accounted for 80% of GDP growth] "I am not enamoured of the current economic strategy. It has an opportunistic undertone .. It was an easy and lazy option."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 01:18:29 GMTPM Lee unveils new 'Singaporeans-first' policies [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 01:14:17 GMTBut news reports by msm refuse to acknowledge such a policy was first put forward by SDP. This is important because PAP has always accused SDP of being a "destructive force". What's interesting is PAP will continue to be a ruling party that repeatedly adopts our ideas (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 01:04:16 GMT"This has been a wake-up call for our country. Social problems that have been festering for decades have exploded in our face," PM Cameron (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 00:56:23 GMTDespite the nation's "mid-life crisis" and often feeling like a stranger in his own land, Mr Brown and many of his fellow countrymen are still proud to call S'pore their home (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 00:50:37 GMT[National Day Rally Speech by PM Lee] I watched the NDR speech over TV as I was not able to get an invitation to the Rally. I am encouraged by 2 key thrusts in his speech ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 00:18:12 GMTAssistant professor Eugene Tan .. Media consultant PN Balji .. Associate professor Bridget Welsh (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 00:14:28 GMT[The Truth Behind Opinion Polls] Too good and apt not to post on the main wall. Thanks to reader Wen Fa Tan who posted the link in the previous thread!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 00:08:39 GMTState-owned broadcaster MediaCorp has censored the embarrassing segment on PAP MP Penny Low looking down at her handphone when the National anthem was sung in a replay of the NDR yesterday. During the NDR, PM Lee lashed out at the new media ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 15 Aug 2011 00:05:24 GMTI disagree with Mr Ng Kok Lim: "Nationalising public transport can be profitable" (Pieter Kok - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 23:50:03 GMT[Let buses compete with trains for passengers] I don't agree with the idea of Mr Ng Kok Lim: "Nationalising public transport can be profitable" ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 23:47:11 GMT[Nationalising public transport can be profitable] MR TOH Cheng Seong ('Offer an alternative better than nationalisation') disagreed with Mr Gerald Giam's commentary ('Consider the economic reality of transport here'), which argued for the nationalisation of public transport.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 23:39:51 GMT[More prudent to raise quality of transport network] Mr Ng Kok Lim: "Nationalising public transport can be profitable", misunderstood my letter as well as WP's concept of a nationalised National Transport Corporation ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 23:36:04 GMTHold the laksa: It seems S'poreans just can't get enough of le Gallic fare (Eve Ang - CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 23:28:49 GMT[National Day Rally Speech] I kept asking myself this question as I listened to the PM last night: "How are we going to pay for all these programs?"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 22:36:59 GMT[Let political system be a connecting tool] One area that PM could have highlighted is how our political system can evolve to attract buy-in for our unique system of governance, given that the expectations are for a more open political system in which the ruling PAP is less dominant. The issue is not whether there needs to be political change - it is how we should .. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 22:18:43 GMT[PM Lee's speech: Cowboy towns and the little joke nobody caught] There are lies and blatant untruths in cyberspace, no doubt. But the govt is not the ultimate arbiter of truth. The citizens are. That is something PM Lee has failed to acknowledge. Cowboy towns? Ridiculous untruths? Let us see the msm clean up their act first. The joke is still on them (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 22:11:24 GMT[Of cowboy towns and engagement] What I am trying to say here is this: We can and at times, should disagree. But we should transcend and avoid descending to that base level where our disagreements become so visceral that we do not even respect the person on the other side. And I mean respect him or her as a human being.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 22:00:05 GMT"It's not easy because it's anonymous, it's chaotic, it's unfiltered, unmoderated. So the medium lends itself to many negative views and ridiculous untruths ... And we have to do our best to counter this. But it's not just the Ministers doing these, the govt as a whole has to be more active and adept, engaging S'poreans online. We can't be in every corner on cyberspace because there's a lot of cowboy towns out there." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 21:55:26 GMT[No pledge to donate pay because...] Dear Straits Times: I have no doubts Dr Tan Cheng Bock is championing football for national unity because he believes it is the right thing to do, not because it will win him votes. Similarly, I have no doubts Mr Tan Kin Lian and Mr Tan Jee Say are championing for presidential salaries to be donated away because they feel it is the right thing to do, not because it will win them votes.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 17:15:03 GMTIf not for technology and internet; if not for "daft bloggers", "boat rockers", "disloyal and divisive noise makers" and "lunatics in the fringe", we S'poreans would still be thinking that Teo Soh Lung, Vincent Cheng & Co. were Marxist Conspirators. We would not have known how much JBJ, Tang Liang Hong and Chee Soon Juan has/had suffered, We would not have known of ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 17:01:11 GMTPM Lee's NDR 2011 - Englishhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 15:59:55 GMTPrime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's National Day Rally 2011 (Speech in English), Sunday, 14 August 2011, at University Cultural Centre, National University of Singapore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 15:22:16 GMT[PM Lee: the govt has always put S'poreans first in its policies] Based on what PM Lee has said so far, it appears that there will not be any radical changes made to the govt's immigration policies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 15:11:40 GMT2 bug-bears of the S'pore Malay community are finally getting some long overdue attention, going by 2 key points raised by PM Lee in his NDR speech in Malay. And with presidential election just around the corner, I am also inclined to believe the feel good news had been designed to sweeten the ground for the establishment-preferred candidate (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 15:08:29 GMTYou mean S'poreans have to wait till 2015 before prices start coming down? Mind you, it isn't housing prices being affordable in 2015, but just coming down! More importantly, if supply will only meet demand in 2015. Doesn't that mean housing prices will continue to rise from now till 2015, and will only come down then? (Musings From the Lion City)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 15:02:12 GMT[Here are some food for thought] After watching the National Day Rally , I am slightly amused by the use of statistics ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 14:56:13 GMT[Challenging the Out-of-Bounds Markers for an Elected President] The prevailing attitude seems to be that since the constitution was created more than 20 years ago by a self-serving govt that provided it with enough ambiguities to allow for an interpretation that will always suit their purpose, it is no longer relevant. Indeed, it contradicts the new spirit of openness, transparency and expanded powers for the people..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 12:35:21 GMT[PE2011 Candidates Promoting Businesses On Facebook?] FB is a powerful marketing tool. It can connect a Presidential candidate with supporters. It can also help endorse organisations or businesses - just get your FB page to "like" them. Who have the various Presidential candidates been endorsing on FB?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 11:01:12 GMTTan Cheng Bock gears up for campaigning.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 10:51:52 GMT[Tan Kin Lian - Voice of the People] TKL shares his vision for S'pore, and how he will realize this vision through his goal as the 'Voice of the People', if elected as President of S'pore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 10:47:51 GMTHow I decide on who to vote for president.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 10:42:36 GMTThe office of the Presidenthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 10:37:42 GMT'Cook A Pot of Curry' Day (& Chen Show Mao Eating Prata with Curry).http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 10:13:21 GMT[Approaching unions for endorsements] The journalists asked for my views about endorsements by several unions for Dr Tony Tan. I replied that I would welcome endorsements but I would not approach them, as I do not wish to put them in a difficult position in having to decide on endorsing or declining a candidate not supported by the govt.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 10:08:28 GMTAll the Elites & Rich Voting for TT Woh!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:58:14 GMTLaw Minister Shanmugam wants to play by the constitution, let's play by the constitution (Where Bears Roam Free)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:55:34 GMT... after the recent IPS seminar where he spoke about the role of the President, the presidential hopefuls seemed to have a better understanding of the issue, and he has detected 'a significant shift in the way they are positioning themselves' (ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:52:29 GMT[Donate at least half of President's salary] Dear Mr. Tan: I respect you for stating at the start of the campaign that you will be donating at least half of the President's salary towards charity and other worthy causes. Recently, you challenged the other candidates to state their stand on this issue ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:47:45 GMTConfrontational or constructive? Pragmatic or populist? Expressing concern about the "whipping up of resentment" by those opposed to the Govt during GE2011, he asked if S'poreans would choose "constructive politics" or "confrontational and divisive politics" (257 readers' comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:40:45 GMT[Most horrendous mistake since the British surrendered S'pore] My preferred quietness and privacy was jolted by a review of 2008 Presidential decision to make limitless guarantees of all foreign banks deposits in the light of upcoming PE. It is the most expensive decision S'pore has made since the British surrendered S'pore (SingaporeReserves)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:28:59 GMT[Defying the odds to become success story] Dear Straits Times: I refer to 9 Aug 2011 letter by Dr Khor Swee Kheng. S'pore may be punching above its weight. So too are HK, Taiwan, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Holland and Denmark. Before we show pride in our punch, let us first show pride in being a society we claim to be, one that is based on justice and equality.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:17:11 GMTLee Kuan Yew: Why PAP lost votes in the May election (374 readers' comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:10:03 GMTThe riots offer food for thought not just for UK but also for other developed countries. They were the outburst and explosion of a society that has been suffering in silence, and which had reached the tipping point. The riots have also exposed the failure by successive govts to ensure social justice across all parts of society (People's Daily)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 09:00:11 GMT['Tribute to Tan Jing Quee' by Francis Khoo] I found this tribute in Teo Soh Lung's Facebook. I own a collection of Fajar which was the organ of University Socialist Club. The ideas and thoughts of the young men and women who were members of USC cuts through the decades, to speak to another generation of S'poreans who are now struggling to find answers to problems we face today.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 08:38:34 GMT[Ong Teng Cheong is out but not down] "In choosing Ong as its first candidate back in 1993, the govt appeared to have forgotten his independent streak and his activist past. ... Almost immediately there were problems over how much power he should have, and how much info he should get. In rapid succession, there were 4 constitutional amendments to try to plug these holes."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 08:36:26 GMTKin Lian's strength is drawn primarily from his fight for the victims of the minibond saga. He challenged the authority when no one dared. This is a very pertinent point in a society that is engulfed with fear of authority. And it took a man of great courage and sacrifice to stand out at a time like that crisis. In this election, particular to Kin Lian, would some irreprehensible bums be everywhere smelling for shit? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 04:30:21 GMT[Remembering President Ong Teng Cheong | Tan Kin Lian's Blog] TKL reveals a personal account of his partnership and friendship with late Singapore President, Ong Teng Cheong.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 04:05:35 GMT[Tony Tan confident Singaporeans will not 'waste' their votes on 'baseless' allegations about his son's NS stint] Nobody has accused Tony Tan of 'intervening' in his sons' postings. All netizens wanted to know is whether Dr Patrick Tan was given preferential treatment by MINDEF.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 04:01:28 GMT[Tony Tan gets warm welcome in Aljunied GRC] Members of Dr Tan's campaign team had been unsure about the reception he would receive as Kovan City is in Aljunied GRC. By some reports, it is where WP enjoyed strong support in the recent GE.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 03:57:05 GMT[Dr Tony Tan aware of bread and butter issues] CNA is right. Tony Tan is very aware like how SR Nathan has been aware for the past 10 years.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 03:53:10 GMT[Participant at 3rd S'poreans First! Event: Lessons I learned During My Joblessness] Hi Gilbert: Difficult times are times of learning. In fact, almost everyone has to go through some very tough but essential lessons in his life. Hence, we should try to see them not as a fall from grace but phases that make us better and stronger if we survive them.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 03:42:59 GMT[Govt Reply: Mediation Result Racist] The govt has replied to my friend's letter, in the face of an unfortunate and shameful attempt by an agency of the Ministry of Law to brandish as exemplary a case that had a racist outcome. My friend's comments, the reply from the Ministry, and the response of my friend to the Ministry, are made available below. If you agree with my friend's views ,..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 03:28:57 GMT[Leadership renewal] Dear Mr Tan: Presidential election is for the people to decide. Why did the elite "leadership" of unions and establishments so selfishly take side? It must be for obvious reasons ie. to enjoy holding senior positions continuously 20-35 years, ignoring the need for leadership renewal.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 00:24:52 GMT[Singapore's GIC Suffers $41.6 Billion Loss] Tony Tan was GIC's Deputy Chairman when it lost nearly S$60 billion dollars during the 2008 global financial crisis. Can you trust him to safeguard Singapore's reserves?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 00:21:08 GMT'Can they deliver their promises under the Constitution?' .. "vote wisely" for the one who, "as Head of State, will make us proud" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 00:16:13 GMTI am one of the many thousands of M'sians who studied in England in the 1970s and early 1980s (RAJA ZARITH IDRIS is Chancellor of University Teknologi Malaysia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 14 Aug 2011 00:10:54 GMTThe jurisdiction of the EP depends on the political negotiation of relevant actors, not the Supreme Court (Prof Thio Li-Ann - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 23:55:55 GMT[S'poreans have to choose the kind of politics they want, says ESM Goh -- CNA] ESM Goh says addressing widening income gap is difficult, reduce number of foreigners also not easy. Pay him so much for what.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 23:50:51 GMT[PM Lee should apologise to Dr Ang Swee Chai] Dr Ang, a prominent surgeon and author, has now written about her arrest and detention without trial under the ISA in 1977. She was one of at least 28 people, mostly professionals, who were arrested and labelled as Euro Communists by the PAP govt ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 23:46:45 GMTI was at a panel discussion Saturday, 13 August 2011 .. On success .. On justice .. On civil society .. On income gap .. On 377A and equality for gay and lesbian people.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 23:42:09 GMT[S'pore still drawing in investments despite difficult times, says Lee Kuan Yew - CNA] Attn S'poreans, LKY has an announcement to make: "So if we do not take in migrants, we will become an old, diminishing society with no vitality and no drive."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 23:35:07 GMTBritain needs to tackle deep-seated social problems following riots and looting in English cities this week, the centre-right govt said Saturday, and a U.S. street crime expert it has brought in said arrests alone would not solve the problem (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 23:26:56 GMTCorruption At The Top Leads To Lawlessness By The People [Reader's comment: When productivity gains are unshared with labor over enough time, economies break down. When economies break down, societies break down. When societies break down, one cannot be rich enough to be safe] The Big Picturehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 22:53:08 GMTTens of thousands of people gathered across Israel Saturday to call for lower living costs, in an effort to show the govt their protest movement has countrywide support. "The gaps between rich and poor have [increased] and I think right now, people really feel frustrated because they are working ... in very respectable jobs, but they don't get enough to live their lives and raise their children." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 22:39:03 GMT[Unhappiness runs deep.... around the world....] Israel is one of the most democratic states in the world, so they are not protesting for more freedom or democracy. S'pore suffers from all the problems people are protesting about around the world - our income gap is higher.. our cost of living has risen even faster.. the same pressures on our middle class, and rising poverty among lower income groups.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 22:24:39 GMT[President S R Nathan: I've done my best] We don't want another SR Nathan as President. DO NOT VOTE TONY TAN.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 16:25:55 GMTPledging to donate part of the Presidential salary if elected could be akin to buying people's vote, believes Presidential hopeful Dr Tan Cheng Bock (287 Readers' comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 16:20:39 GMT[Dr Tony Tan visits Kovan City, Hougang] Looks like he has been learning how to shake hands with fishmongers properly?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 16:13:49 GMT[Tan Jee Say will lobby govt to disband Temasek Holdings] Should we dismantle Temasek Holdings?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 16:11:10 GMT[Public transport model not key issue] Dear Ms Josephine Teo: I refer to your 22 July ST article. Finite licence period means the operator can take commuters for granted while the licence is still valid, and then put in extra effort just before the licence expires. It is the same with the govt which goes that extra mile just once every 5 years...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 15:50:20 GMTSingapore's favorite sport - (political) Football...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 11:49:08 GMTCost of wishing Singaporeans a Happy National Day..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 11:47:24 GMT[Y STARS] I attended the Tan Chin Tuan Foundation's National Day Celebration concert at ACS today. I remember the good work of the Foundation from my schoolboy days at ACS, when schoolmates received financial assistance from Mr Tan (Fan's comment: Mr Chen, I know this might be a potentially sensitive question,but who are you rooting for in the upcoming PE?)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 11:43:53 GMT[Submitting the nomination papers] ST gave a sub-headline that I was considering to withdraw from the Presidential election. This is misleading and inaccurate, and does not reflect my answers given to the media conference or posted in my blog. CNA has given an accurate report, which is stated here..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 11:00:23 GMTLive updates @Hong Lim Park - Singaporean First Eventhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 10:49:14 GMTSCCCI endorses Tony Tan for President [SGEP Editor: a very detailed explanation].http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 10:32:18 GMTPRC student with 'dual citizenship' awarded President's Scholarship by PAP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 06:23:53 GMT[The Imperfect President Scholar(ship)] Would Bill Gates have been good enough as President's Scholar?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 06:15:06 GMTNeal and Nancy are not the first brand-name hires to quit.. "I'm speaking out as "citizen Lee," not as MM's daughter, or PM's sister," clarified Dr Lee Wei Ling, when she called for a reassessment of Singapore's biotech strategy, saying billions of dollars have been spent without achieving significant results (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 06:03:52 GMTThe husband-and-wife team are frustrated with the research scene here.. having to spend time on red tape instead of research, and increased pressure to focus on economic outcomes to get funding (Don't miss the Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 05:54:17 GMT[Tony Tan warns S'poreans of economic crisis, and boasts about his 'credentials'] Tony Tan says he knows everything. Like the PAP self-proclaimed multi-million talents, Tony Tan knows what's best for Singaporeans!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 02:58:00 GMT[Govt terrified of the people?....] Can someone cite one demand from the electorate that amounts to pampering? The people, if you hear them conscientiously and sincerely, are asking for the deterioration to stop! The govt should be terrified, not of the people, but what the inequality has done to our society that makes their job so much more difficult.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 02:44:35 GMT[CNA Talking Point: Tan Kin Lian on Lehman Minibond] TKL spoke up for Lehman Minibond investors. He suggested asking MAS to investigate this structure on behalf of the thousands of small investors affected.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 02:43:12 GMTStep back for a moment people - why would anyone seek to make money by sharing in wealth creation in the current economic environment? The time is nigh to find somewhere else to put your money (Reader's Comment: I agree. That somewhere else to put our money is Gold. Can't print Gold) AsianCorrespondenthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 02:38:21 GMTShell-shocked stock investors will search next week for calm to return to markets after the worst 3 weeks for stocks in 2 1/2 years (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 02:33:10 GMTInvestors may move from U.S. to markets that offer better profit, providing a shot in the arm for China and other rising economies (China Daily)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 02:30:56 GMT[Struggling in uncharted, stormy seas] Many S'poreans are nursing large losses sparked off by America's historic credit downgrading, the worst hit being short-term speculators who borrowed money to trade, treating the stock market like a casino (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 13 Aug 2011 00:11:42 GMTThe riddle of GIC's performance and CPF funds.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 23:35:16 GMTToday, 2 decades after the EP was written into law and 2 Elected Presidents later, confusion remains among voters over the role of the office. The cause of the confusion, it seems, cannot be traced to the intent.. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 23:31:21 GMTThis brings the total number of unions which have expressed support for Dr Tan's campaign to 20.. the 3 other presidential contenders told TODAY they do not have any plans to approach the unions for endorsements.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 23:24:15 GMTUnlike in the GEs, voters in the Aug 27 Presidential Election will be concerned about "the intangibles". Said Dr Tan: "They have to ask themselves, can I trust him? ... But I think, above all, they want to see how independent you are, because you are managing these reserves, and if you're not independent in your thinking, you might compromise. This is how voters will look at you.." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 23:14:53 GMT"Lights, Camera, AUCTION!" .. at the Hougang New Town Zhongyuan festivities.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 23:01:10 GMT[The S'pore town-hall meeting] The National Day Rally is a significant political event in S'pore politics. Its significance lies in the fact that the speech has a profound impact on the direction and tenor of policy-making in the short-term and long-term, as it articulates and seeks to persuade the country on the Govt's agenda and priorities. So, what will the PM address? (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 22:58:25 GMT[Malaysian democracy is alive and kicking, thank you] I wish to highlight several views in relation to senior writer Salim Osman's misleading commentary: 'The need for electoral reforms in Malaysia'...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 22:48:43 GMT["UK riots: More about opportunism than oppression?"] In shifting all responsibility and blame on these youth, Mr Paul Gilfeather's analysis has not addressed the underlying concerns of marginalisation and inequity that all society should bear. The riots must be seen as a superficial expression of deeper ills within British society. S'pore would do well to learn valuable lessons from such unfortunate incidents in history (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 22:42:16 GMTMOE's statement that teachers will benefit from this re-employment suggests a favour being bestowed upon retiring teachers.. that it does not matter what the teachers are paid - they should be thankful that they got their jobs back. [Also], Singapore Teachers' Union's position on the issue leaves much to be desired (Michael Seah, ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 22:32:06 GMTI was disappointed to read MOE's response on the issue of salary cuts for rehired teachers ['MOE clears the air over pay cut for rehired teachers'] The criticism was never about the percentage of the cut, but about whether there should have been a pay cut in the first place for rehired teachers (Balasingam-Chow Yu Hui, ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 22:21:25 GMTAmidst the global economic crisis, is there any Presidential candidate with AAA+ economic credentials, who can help safeguard the reserves? We compare the candidates... (pe2011facts)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 16:59:51 GMT[Tony Tan? Over our dead body] For me, as an informed voter, my vote no matter how insignificant it can be compared to those held by the uninformed voters, will still never go to you.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 16:46:20 GMT[Tan Kin Lian for President] Both may perform the same role of checks and balances but Tan Jee Say has political baggage.. Tan Kin Lian would be in a better position of performing the role of unifying S'poreans, due his political neutrality.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 16:09:17 GMTWhile both Dr Tony Tan and DPM Tharman are warning about the same economic "storm" looming ahead, the NTUC Chief is 'confident that Singapore workers can "do it again" '. Don't forget Dr Tony Tan would support a CPF and wage cut for all Singaporeans, to the extent of citing a controversial report .....[De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 16:08:46 GMTEconomic storms may affect Singapore: Lui Tuck Yew ..urged Singaporeans to stay united.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 16:04:37 GMTS'poreans will make an informed choice: Tony Tan [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 15:54:43 GMTMOF puts up more information on S'pore reserves.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 15:52:14 GMTAre we lacking native S'poreans to qualify for the President's Scholarship? Is this another example of Tony Tan's pro-foreigner education policy which has disadvantaged locals over the years?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 15:49:42 GMTUntold legend of Singapore - The Tans...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 15:30:34 GMT[The Prospects of the Presidential Election] If the dilution of Dr Tony Tan's pro-PAP votes is not significantly large, he may have a better prospect of winning. But it is unlikely to be a shoo-in. Mr Tan Jee Say's prospect of winning is equally strong if he gets the solid support of the anti-establishment votes. We will know on 27 August if S'poreans get a PAP-endorsed or an independent EP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 15:19:20 GMTRole of president has been clarified: Dr Yaacob Ibrahim.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 15:11:43 GMT[4 Tans in Presidential Elections] What really concerns S'poreans is what they cannot see and do not know about the reserves - it is not spending which has to be made known. If such transparency is not possible, we want to have someone respected and elected to office to do this.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 14:55:02 GMT[Statement -- Participating in a 4-cornered contest] Earlier, I entered the Presidential contest to give a chance for the people to vote for a President and avoid a walkover. I also wanted them to vote for the values that will guide our country in the future. My first goal has now been achieved..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 13:16:06 GMTWorkers' Party: "The Office of Elected President should be abolished and the Presidency should be reverted to its former ceremonial position. The power of Parliament as the people's representatives should be unfettered."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 13:09:43 GMTGrowing up not knowing right and wrong of political elections in Singapore, now it's the time to change it.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 13:04:57 GMT[Anticipating PM Lee's National Day Rally speech] PM Lee has assured businesses about Singapore's economic direction. Now, he must do the same - and more - for those who have placed their faith in him and in his govt - the average Singaporean (lots of Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:58:18 GMT[The parameters of presidential powers] Dear Prof Thio Li-Ann: I refer to your 11 Aug 2011 ST article. The general principle that the president must act on the advice of the cabinet is confined to official matters only. It cannot apply to non-official matters such as when to take breakfast, or when to wake up at night to pee..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:54:46 GMT[THE ELECTED PRESIDENT RALLIES - Seriously, Shouldn't The Govt Be Responsible To Facilitate Voters?] For only when a nation gets together to discuss national issues that affect and concern all citizens sans partisan politics, can there be true consensus building, ownership, mutual understanding and transparency of purpose and intent.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:36:58 GMTIn 1987, 22 people were detained without trial under the ISA. My dad met Dr Tan Cheng Bock in church few weeks ago, and said he was going to vote for him. But he has now changed his mind, on his own accord! Teo Soh Lung was right. Change has begun (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:32:01 GMT[Why Tony Tan will be the president] NTUC has already declared TT "fits the bill". Looking at the pictures below, it shows the magnitude of this endorsement. It's amazing how EC set the election date conveniently as sentiments are also very high after the NDP..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:24:58 GMTI refer to the article "7 trade unions endorse Tony Tan: Presidential candidate also holds dialogue with SMCCI members, pays tribute to Malay community"...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:21:50 GMTWhy Do Union corporations endorse TT?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:15:39 GMT[S'pore economy on course] Labour Chief Lim Swee Say urged S'poreans to work with unity, and minimise disruption to the economy (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:08:50 GMTLaw Minister isn't ultimate interpreter of Constitution - Tan Jee Say.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:03:50 GMTDischarge and performance of functions of President according to the Constitution.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 12:01:49 GMTPresidential candidates rule out any horse-trading.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 11:58:44 GMTCheng Bock open to talks with Kin Lian & Jee Say.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 11:56:32 GMTMr Tan Kin Lian hinted that 'something might happen' between now and Nomination Day in the 4-cornered presidential contest.. (ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 11:54:13 GMT[Troy] My immediate thoughts on the PEC revolve around a simple either-or proposition: either the PEC is indeed truly independent of the PAP, or the PAP's strategy dept is indeed staffed by idiots. Anyway, I quite struggle to understand why TJS has been approved as an eligible presidential candidate..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 11:50:57 GMT[Presidential Elections 2011: More COEs, More Dilution] This is the smartest move. In the end, TT will win with a majority vote of 40%, coz the other 3 candidates and their respective voters cannot get their acts together as one big picture.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 11:47:02 GMTThe Presidential Election is a game of chess.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 11:24:30 GMT[4 men, no certain winner] I am led to question my own view that Tony Tan is the most likely winner. Over the last week or two, Yahoo Sg had been running an online poll, and, while the result fluctuated from day to day, it was never obvious that Tony Tan had a runaway majority.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 11:21:08 GMTMr Tan Kin Lian says he has considered withdrawing from the presidential contest to avoid splitting the votes of S'poreans who prefer to elect a president who is "truly independent of the govt".. his friends had suggested that a pullout would have earned him "political capital for making the sacrifice". But Mr Tan said that..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 10:46:41 GMTThe granting of COEs to 4 candidates is another milestone in our political history. Having set the pace for more openness and more eligible candidates to contest the office of the EP, I hope this will be the last time that the restrictive criteria of the Act are allowed to stand, and that it be amended to widen the pool of eligible candidates (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 04:12:49 GMTTony Tan confident S'poreans will make informed choice at polls.. on who will best execute the custodial responsibilities of the EP. Citing the economic uncertainties in the US and Europe, he added that these are stark reminders of the major responsibilities of the EP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 04:06:56 GMTPrivate home purchases are sentiment-driven, especially if they involve investors.. (Colin Tan, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 02:07:35 GMTFilipina Rachelle Ann Beguia Riko got that part about NS right. But she fingered the wrong incompetent party. A competent govt would have ejected mercenary misfits like her at the port of entry. The "population czar" who made entry for a clerk like her so easy has already been kicked out of office. More should be following his exit route.. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 01:53:56 GMTThe good news is: Home mortgage rates will remain low, most likely below 1 per cent for at least the next 2 years. With equities and commodities so volatile given the uncertainties in many of the major economies, what should we do if we have cash? (Ku Swee Yong, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 01:42:07 GMT[Improving Language Education And Bilingualism In S'pore] All efforts would simply go down the drain if MOE does not recognise inherent problems with linguistic education. In my perspective, the challenges and the appropriate proposals are 3-fold...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 01:24:25 GMTMPs expect PM to stress the importance of national unity. GE2011 may be over, but Mountbatten MP Lim Biow Chuan noted that netizens were still "stuck in the mode of blaming others". He said: "Everything about the Govt is viewed negatively, (netizens) are not giving credit where it is due, while feedback offline and on the ground is that PM is hearing the people.." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 01:16:21 GMTMOE has clarified.. But there is still no clear, transparent link between salary and workload. Secondly, is MOE re-employing retired teachers or raising the retirement age? (Letter from Lisa Li Shi-En - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 01:03:38 GMT[ISA Arrests in the 1970s] The misuse of the ISA occurred time and again throughout the rule of the PAP. Among those arrested are the following..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 00:52:16 GMTIf the PM is truly sincere about his own undertaking during the May 2011 GE hustings, he can start showing us that he meant what he had said and that it wasn't a ploy to win back votes that he genuinely felt are slipping away from his party (Thetwophilo's Blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 00:42:39 GMTStill no explanation on Ms Tin's declaration on her Election advertising form.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 00:31:23 GMTDon't be a sucker, lunch is where to get the best bang for your foodie buck in Singapore (Minnie R - CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 00:27:53 GMTBusiness Times - 12 Aug 2011 (sammyboy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 00:22:51 GMT[Minister Shanmugam cited Article 21(1) of the Constitution.. Mr Shanmugan also emphasised in concomitance with the Article..] May I ask how transparency can be established if speaking out in public against the authority is unconstitutional? The way the Constitution has been framed seems to have elicited different interpretations.. (Letter from Dudley Au - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 00:09:25 GMT[According to our Constitution Part V, 25(1).. Furthermore, according to our Constitution Part V, 26(1b)..] Since an EP's legitimacy comes from a nationwide election and he has power to both appoint and dismiss the PM, the weight of his office, vis-a-vis the PMs', is significant, to say the least (Letter from Danny G Tan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 12 Aug 2011 00:01:13 GMT[How to invest $100,000] Someone asked me, "how do I invest $100,000?". I wrote this article to provide some tips.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 23:42:43 GMTMr Tan told TODAY he welcomed NTUC Income's statement on not privatising the cooperative. As for why he left, Mr Tan said NTUC Income had said earlier it wanted to "professionalise" the management, and said it was the board's "prerogative" to decide its business strategy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 23:35:17 GMTDr Tan held a dialogue with members of Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce & Industry. SMCCI president Abdul Rohim said his organisation, together with its Chinese and Indian counterparts, will decide next week on which candidate to endorse for the Aug 27 PE. Before the decision is made, SMCCI will be meeting former [PAP] MP Dr Tan Cheng Bock (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 23:29:56 GMT[Minister Shanmugam had twice sought to debunk notions that the President can publicly challenge the Govt or initiate policy change] Mr Tan argued that voters need to know where he stood. "Otherwise why should (voters) decide to vote for me and not others? They have to know that I will be taking these views into my private conversations with [the Govt] even though I might not air them in public." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 23:22:41 GMTAnalysts [Dr Gillian Koh, Prof Eugene Tan, former NMPs Siew Kum Hong and Zulkifli Baharuddin] weigh in on eligibility findings of the 4 presidential hopefuls (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 22:26:04 GMT[4 Presidents] Wow.. Don't think the creator of this uniquely S'pore EP post ever thought 2011 will see 4 contestants for Istana. I think Tony Tan will split the votes with Tan Cheng Bok. Both are too close to the PAP. They have been speaking the same language in their campaigns.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 16:30:07 GMTSay 'NO' to Tony Tan as President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 16:25:11 GMT[Pivatisation of NTUC Income] .. STATEMENT FROM NTUC INCOME .. STATEMENT BY TAN KIN LIAN.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 16:01:07 GMTI worked with him for some 5 years. I have written about what his presidency will mean. I know his strengths and weaknesses. I believe he has the right values that this august office needs. I agree he can be the Voice of The People. I am voting for Tan Kin Lian. Thank you, Mr Tan, for giving me the opportunity to vote again (Dharmendra Yadav)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 15:56:50 GMT[Tan Kin Lian: "I wish to run for President as a public duty. I do not wish to receive a large salary as President, and will be willing to donate at least 50% of the salary to charity and other worthy causes."] ..hallmark of a true President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 15:52:51 GMT[Statement by Tan Kin Lian - Getting the certificate of eligibility] I wish to assure the public and all concerned that my campaign will be run in a clean and dignified manner, as befitting the status of the office. I will be collecting the certificate from the Election Dept at 11 a.m. on Friday.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 15:49:33 GMTPresident must address Govt's economic strategy to play unifying role (ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 08:37:55 GMTIt is ironical that GE candidates can hold more than rally for their ward and even speak at rallies outside their ward, whereas Presidential candidates are allowed to only have one rally (Faisal Wali, New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 08:35:19 GMTThe premier of 'Cooling Off Day', a dramatized depiction of 'grassroots' sentiments of GE2011, played to a full house last night. Even more assuring that the times are indeed a-changing, with people being interested and engaging politically, is that tickets are sold out for all nights already. So what made it so enjoyable? (Shirani Alfreds, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 08:30:36 GMT[Why the rich 'are such a selfish, less empathetic and less altruistic lot'] A new study has revealed the wealthy are unlikely to be to bothered about those who are struggling to make ends meet as they are usually self-obsessed.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 08:20:52 GMTCOV cannot be removed: Khaw Boon Wan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 08:16:27 GMTNo wonder prices of housing went up by 80%, between 2005 and 2010! It pays to pay attention to the official statistics (pengtoh's blog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 08:14:47 GMT[Concerns of the people] I read the views of Dr Tony Tan on the role of the President. He now shares my position that the President must speak up on behalf of S'poreans. It seems that Dr Tony Tan also disagrees with the Law Minister - that the President cannot speak without the approval of the cabinet.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 05:24:33 GMT7 trade unions back Tony Tan as preferred presidential candidate.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 05:16:31 GMTThe Americans have their Tea Party Movement to fight for issues that are important to them.. we may want to call the fight by netizens as a Kopitiam Movement in general, for the good of S'poreans. There are so many issues that netizens have raised but are scattered all over cyberspace and often lost in time. I would like to sum up a few key issues that a Kopitiam Movement can stand for and to stay the course.. (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 05:11:12 GMT[Dr Tan Cheng Bock's response to Minister Shanmugam's comments on presidential candidates] Read more of this article which may never be published in totality in the msm..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 04:48:05 GMTThe EP role is another power centre. It is not an executive power, but a moral power. It has no power to enact/amend laws, but it has the powerful role of speaking out the nation's aspirations and opinions, which may be more important than any executive powers of the parliament..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 04:45:14 GMTElders out in force for Youth Wing outreach [Fan's Comment: Love how you put yourself under Elders...]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 04:39:32 GMTPinoy 'FT' Rachelle Ann Beguia jumps to defence of Malaysian MP Penny Low and hurls insults at NSmen.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 04:34:54 GMTSingapore is currently ranked no 9 on the list of Public Debt by Countries.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 04:32:13 GMTSDP warned on this website on 19 Jul 11 of the uncertainty of the global economic situation. 2 weeks later, DPM Teo pretty much repeated what we said.. A week later, former PAP man and presidential hopeful Dr Tony Tan said that a "perfect storm" is brewing in Europe and America that could hit S'pore.. What S'poreans need is less of our ministers echoing SDP, and more of the courage to act in the interest of the people, instead of their own party.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 04:29:16 GMT[Election Dept to probe Tin Pei Ling's FALSE declaration on Election Form?] A check with ELD revealed that Ms Tin is the ONLY approved moderator of her Facebook. ELD had earlier said it will probe the matter after police has concluded its investigations. TRE called on ELD to commence investigations into the matter and give the public a proper explanation of what happened.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 04:21:47 GMTWait a minute, who's under investigation here? The caption implies the Parliamentary Elections Act was breached not only by Marine Parade MP Tin Pei Ling, but also by her target of abuse.. But does the "bo-chap" PM care? He didn't even bother to speak 'live' for National Day message. Come next year, we may see a body double showing up at NDP. Why even bother? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 02:01:18 GMT"In the case of Ms Tin - now a PAP MP for Marine Parade GRC - the post was made by a friend who did it without her knowledge. The police have issued a 'stern warning' to the friend in question."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 01:52:46 GMTElitism in PAP must end.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 01:49:47 GMT[Dr Patrick Tan's NS fiasco to get hearing this Saturday at Hong Lim Park] Besides the NS fiasco, the organizers will also be focusing on the current looming financial crisis which will affect many PMETs if it turns worse, and the recent one precent transport hike which S'poreans have no choice but to accept. Please support this event and join in unity with many other S'poreans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 01:43:26 GMTIt's a disgrace to S'pore to have such a person as our MP. I hope Penny Low will use now till 10 Oct 2011 to self reflect and ponder if she is still fit to take up office (dk.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 01:39:38 GMTConcerns about S&P's downgrading of the U.S. credit rating and the resulting global stock sell-off are sparking urgent calls for investigations and reinvigorating ongoing efforts to reform the ratings agencies, which have been under fire since the Enron scandal of 2001 (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 01:24:36 GMT[Contribution to NTUC Income policyholders over 30 years] When a policyholder received a payout of $100,000 on his matured policy, a similar policy taken from another insurance company would have paid perhaps $80,000. The difference of $20,000 is a large sum for a policyholder from a modest background...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 00:57:57 GMT[The presidential difference] Mr Anthony Kan's "Vote wisely for President' reminded S'poreans that the Elected Presidency is different from GE 2011, and we should not turn it into a political battle. He is right.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 00:49:12 GMT[A broken society that needs a strong leader] On Tuesday evening wanton violence, looting and criminality were - for the 4th consecutive day - bringing shame, fear and devastation upon this country. The people of Britain, sickened by the scenes which have this week shaken the nation's image as a civilised society, are crying out for strong leadership and major reform.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 00:34:07 GMTI was uncomfortable with his comments and concerned that our DPM Teo took such a position. What troubles me is not that one day the PAP may lose power, but that the transition would not be smooth, as he articulated. Personally, I cannot agree with the DPM for the following reasons.. (Dharmendra Yadav)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 00:24:48 GMTThe best shopping in Singapore isn't found in air-conditioned malls. Head out to these 5 flea markets and unearth some treasures (Denise Cheong, CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 00:13:35 GMT[Reduction in yield] If you invest in a unit trust.. If you buy a life insurance policy..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 00:07:17 GMT[Things to be thankful for in S'pore] While there is a need to address genuine worries of job security and widening income disparity, we generally do not have too many people unemployed.. we do not have people sleeping long-term in our streets.. dependable healthcare is relatively accessible (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 11 Aug 2011 00:03:23 GMT[How Dare You, Penny?] Such disrespect! It is a fooking shame! It's a pity that by blogging the way I do, I'll be accused of trying to divide the country and not help to unite S'pore. When will they ever learn that S'pore is not PAP, and PAP is not S'pore! Right is right and wrong is wrong. Though victor can write history, truth will always prevail!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 23:52:18 GMTLim Kay Siu on his FB: term for what looks like an apology, but is not an apology at all: PAPology. just papologise and carry on as usual.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 23:45:51 GMTMPs from PAP and WP were dressed in their respective party colours of white and blue. This should change. In future, community events organised and funded by the Govt should also be free from the hint of promoting a political party (Ronald Seow)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 23:37:53 GMT[TODAY's letter from Community Mediation Unit, Ministry of Law] We refer to "Number of neighbour disputes hit high". The summary of Case 1 stated that community mediator Marcellina Giam "got the Indian family to agree to cook curry only when the Chinese family was not home". We have checked with Madam Giam and this is inaccurate.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 23:30:27 GMTMOE's decision to rehire retiring teachers at a pay cut of up to 30 percent had received negative feedback from the public. Last week, STU had expressed unhappiness over the issue, with its general secretary saying that the pay cut was "regressive" and "viewed as unfair and inequitable by many teachers" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 22:34:13 GMT"If foreigners can come and snatch your (S'porean) jobs and flats it only shows one thing... how incompetent you are." -- Filipino 'FT' Rachelle Ann Beguia giving a lecture to S'poreans on Penny Low's Facebookhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 22:30:34 GMTMP Penny Low apologises for behaviour [321 Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 22:28:02 GMT"While your apology is very welcome, I would have thought better of you if you had left out that last sentence of 'NDP is a time to unite, not divide'. Since you are in the wrong, it is not your place to lecture people, not in a situation like this."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 22:24:50 GMTMR LEONG Sze Hian ['Anti-competitive'] may wish to know that many hidden factors contribute to the sales of new vehicles by agents.. Most buyers choose the convenience of allowing agents to package the insurance and loans, without realising that the agents are covered with comfortable commissions by banks and insurance companies (Francis Cheng)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 22:21:31 GMTNo police action against Tin Pei Ling, Nicole Seahhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 21:54:52 GMTThe TouchPad now starts at US$399 for the 16 GB model. The 32 GB model costs US$499 (businessinsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 21:50:02 GMT"The New York Times Announces Thomas Friedman's Dismissal"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 16:10:07 GMTThe exceptions in the chart are interesting. Singapore is the most intriguing, of course, as one of the richest countries in the world, but with what Polity considers an authoritarian regime (Dani Rodrik's weblog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 16:00:28 GMTThe difference between S&P and Moody's.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:55:44 GMTRatings agencies helped spark the financial meltdown of 2008-9. Now S&P downgrades the debt of the entire country. And wrote Paul Krugman, from the liberal camp: "S&P is just making stuff up - and after the mortgage debacle, they really don't have that right. So this is an outrage... these people are in no position to pass judgment." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:53:26 GMTHow to Trade It: Is it too late for gold fever? (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:49:42 GMTAnalysis - Gold set to widen premium over platinumhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:47:54 GMTclub-by-club preview (BBC Sport)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:36:23 GMTReuters has been able to reconstruct a clearer picture of the circumstances of the crash that killed 38 troops after interviews with officials from the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan and the U.S. military.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:28:21 GMTPolice has already done its part. It is now up to Elections Dept to do its job. A job which ELD had said it would do only after a police report had been filed. I don't see how anyone, including ELD, PMO, and even members of PAP, can pretend that nothing of the above has happened (Blinkymummy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:22:58 GMT"We have deleted a few postings by Bryan Ti who wrote negative remarks about the other candidates" -- FB Admin 3 [Fan's Comment: Bryan Ti is a very vicious character - probably part of the PAP Youth team dedicated to undertaking cyber warfare against all the alternative voices]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:13:45 GMT["Many have pressed me for my thoughts on this issue.. Candidates should run for the office that exists, not for the one they wish to have." -- PAP-endorsed presidential hopeful Tony Tan] Do you agree with him?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:02:14 GMTTony Tan: President not a separate power centre [206 Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 14:55:33 GMT[Statement from Dr Tony Tan on the powers of the President] "Many have pressed me for my thoughts on this issue.. Candidates should run for the office that exists, not for the one they wish to have."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 14:48:14 GMT[Police: No further action taken against Tin Pei Ling] If Ms Tin's opponent Nicole Seah had flouted election laws instead, she would probably be arrested, charged and jailed by now. In 2006, then WP candidate James Gomez was arrested ONE WEEK after the election for allegedly 'intimidating' a civil servant. He was subsequently given a 'stern warning' because he never committed any offence to begin with.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 14:40:19 GMT[Prince Charles also acts as 'Voice of the People'] Dear Mr Tan: As Minister Shanmugan has been referencing British Convention, it is useful to note that Prince Charles has not been "dumb". He has for example spoken out against (ex-PM) Tony Blair on the Iraq war. The following url has a list of other instances where Prince Charles very publicly voices his opinion..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 14:19:53 GMTShanmugam has upped the ante - claiming that the President can be removed from office if he attempts to go against the govt. "If the Head of State challenges the govt, he will be acting unconstitutionally. In the UK, the last time that was done was in 1642 by King Charles I. The King lost both his life and his throne for his troubles.." (Tanya Wei, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 14:11:11 GMT[Just before attending the NDP ...] I wrote this 2 days ago, before I was about to attend NDP 2011 as a new MP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 14:00:45 GMTMOE's proposed cut of up to 30% for retired teachers seems to suggest that old teachers are useless or less productive as compared to younger teachers. Should we apply same standard to ministers too? Politicians want to 'win' your hearts but teachers are to 'educate' your hearts (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 13:54:32 GMTI refer to "Past reserves tapped on to fund land reclamation and Sers". Was this ever disclosed in Parliament or reported in media? When Resilience Package was announced in 2009 to combat recession, I believe S'poreans were given the impression it was 1st time ever Reserves were being used.. no one has asked or answered the obvious question - how much of Reserves has been used? (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 13:47:50 GMT[Reader's Comment: Though TKL is not my choice for EP, I think it was not right for NTUC to criticise him on his bad investments.. Tell me, which company do not have write-offs or bad debts etc etc. Very norm in business world, just like our GIC & Temasek] Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 08:27:43 GMTThe thorny stalker...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 08:18:24 GMT[Contribution to NTUC Income policyholders over 30 years] My most important contributions over 30 years in running NTUC Income were: providing insurance protection at lower premiums, and giving a better return to policyholders on their savings..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 02:44:25 GMTDr Vincent Wijeysignha gave the opening address at SDP's National day Dinner celebrations on 6 Aug 11. Below are excerpts of his speech..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 02:27:36 GMTLim Swee Say: "My understanding is that the board has always wanted NTUC Income to become more professional in a sustainable manner." The devil in the details is whether the profession is focusing on its original social mission of doing good, or maximising profits (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 02:06:24 GMTLatest updates: [Help the blind to be employed] .. [Treating cancer] .. [Engaging a lawyer] .. ['Being more professional' - changes after 2007] .. [Financial Planning for Young People].http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 01:45:46 GMT"The Minister of Law has set the stage of confrontation between the Prez and the PM.."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 01:40:37 GMTUPDATE 2-Apple blocks Samsung from selling Galaxy in EU [Adds statement from Samsung]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 01:36:58 GMTSingapore Airlines orders 8 Boeing 777-399ERs worth US$2.3 blnhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 00:19:37 GMT[Public Transportation Concession and Assistance for The Disabled Community] While our transportation mechanism has made day-to-day journeys relatively affordable and accessible for S'poreans in general, measures targeted at the disabled have been considerably lamentable.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 00:14:43 GMTWhat was MP Penny Low doing during the National Anthem?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 00:12:05 GMTAll forms of gambling in S'pore are illegal except for bets placed with S'pore Pools, S'pore Turf Club, in jackpot rooms in licensed social clubhouses and at the 2 casinos. However, it is not the intent of the law to deny people a social game of mahjong. Therefore, playing mahjong among a small group of friends and relatives is generally allowed (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 10 Aug 2011 00:08:33 GMTWhy is a non-executive President often seen and not heard?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:58:45 GMT[Analysis - London riots point to wider risks of youth unrest] Young, lacking opportunity, angry at the system and organising phenomenally fast over social media, London's rioters show some of the same characteristics as the pro-democracy demonstrators of the "Arab Spring" (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:53:58 GMTLarge Photos - updated (BostonGlobe)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:49:00 GMTNow it's Manchester and the Midlands' turn as London braces for FOURTH night of rioting (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:40:21 GMTIn high-pressure Singapore, success hinges on getting into the right primary school (Elaine Ee, CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:32:08 GMT[I Felt Income under TKL was more Customer and Welfare Focused (& his NDP message in Tamil)] But if you were an employee or an agent, then I'm pretty sure you'd prefer to work for a more commercially focused company, with all the perks though. Lim Swee Say tries to rebut TKL, but he hasn't convinced me in the least. Thought also that it was awesome that TKL attempted a National Day message in Tamil.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:27:08 GMTPresidential hopefuls react to Shanmugam remarks.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:16:35 GMTThis is not a political election.. vote for someone who will represent the country with the prestige, stature and dignity that befits a head of state, and not for someone who plays the role of a school discipline master (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:11:24 GMTThe purpose of converting the presidential selection from a nominated to an elected process was to prevent a renegade political party from winning power and using a populist agenda to plunder the reserves.. it is good to remember that nominated presidents have done a superb job and that the 2nd key is but a mystical dragon that may never require to be slain (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 23:06:21 GMTWhen I [Ms Christine Wong] took on the job as the executive director in 2008, I remembered fondly that President Nathan sent a personal invitation for me to meet him for a short discussion. He showed great interest and concern about SOS work, which truly inspired me (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 22:54:39 GMTIt was his 12th, and last, NDP.. he took just a few moments longer to wave to the cheering throng. Asked afterward if he had felt emotional about saying goodbye, Mr Nathan said: "Emotional? No. I was ready for it.. The sun will rise, the sun will set, I will still see you. All good things must end some day. I take it in my stride." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 22:49:30 GMTA few (8) things that crossed my mind at NDP 2011..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 22:40:07 GMT[WP MPs at the National Day Parade: Chen Show Mao, Sylvia Lim & Pritam Singh] It was nice to see WP members at the NDP. Nice to see a bit of blue among all the white, and it would be sign of our progression as a nation to see more colours in a couple of years.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 22:37:04 GMTSingapore's 46th birthday celebration at the Floating Platform (Fickr - Yahoo!)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 22:32:14 GMTLee Kuan Yew - giant of a repressive decade.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:52:29 GMTIt troubles me that for an election that has been repeatedly droned to us by the establishment as being non-political and non-partisan, we are seeing lines of affiliation and possibly [enforced] loyalty being drawn and requiring people to vote with the group (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:37:34 GMT[SDP celebrates National Day - part 2] "He (Dr Paul Thambyah) said that change is coming from the ground up, through the use of social media and political activists."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:35:20 GMTThe Indian Curry Pledge...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:33:03 GMT[National Day Messages from the Alternative Parties] I am Singaporean also because I am grateful for the all the caring, alternative voices that have emerged. People that have come forward to serve tirelessly.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:31:14 GMTChen Show Mao wishes Happy National Day with Fatimah Lateef.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 15:28:36 GMTThe day of celebrations...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 11:47:18 GMT[Population: Why S'poreans Cannot Maintain The Replacement Rate?] With the current sad state of affairs in S'pore, I doubt it'll get better. Here's why!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 11:43:59 GMT[Being more professional - negative impact] Comment posted in my blog: "I read Lim Swee Say's comment with extreme disappointment. Unfortunately our govt is still 'blinded' by this Anglo-Saxon management philosophy which does not necessarily be superior to the old management school of Taylorism and Fordism.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 11:36:52 GMT[Presidential Economic & Financial Views Redundant] Dr Tony Tan has voiced that the president must be someone in a position to share expertise with the govt and aid, guide or advise the govt where needed. Frankly, I don't think we need.. We are blessed with a very talented Finance Minister. I don't agree with Dr Tony Tan (or any of the other presidential hopeful for that matter)..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 11:30:02 GMT["...some of them think I have NO work to do. Much of this perception stems from IGNORANCE." - President S R Nathan, 8 August 2011, CNA] How come he keeps scolding us? Are you impressed by him?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 11:19:06 GMTNo doubt PAP leaders will seize upon the August UK riots as further justification why there cannot be freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and freedom of speech in Singapore, and why the ISA must remain. Unfortunately, it is entirely the wrong conclusion! Riots happen not because a country allows its people peaceful demonstrations. They happen because...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 11:12:22 GMT[Articles of law by BHAG SINGH] A look at what is involved in making a police report (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 10:59:28 GMTWho is the source of our woes and problems here in Singapore? (* This comment was first posted on the thread "Foreign talents, please shut your mouths and keep a low profile in Singapore")http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 10:49:59 GMT[Happy 46th Birthday Singapore!] There are many other ways to celebrate Singapore's birthday, beyond the official showy NDP parade or cheesy giant posters of your estate (PAP) MPs.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 10:44:25 GMTHappy National Day 2011...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 10:37:20 GMT[Majulah Singapura! HGCC National Day Picnic with volunteers and residents] Giving a short speech before lunch commenced, Shin Leong shared that the Hougang Spirit encapsulates the essence of the Singapore Spirit.. whereby each Hougang volunteer contributes his part towards community bonding & building..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 10:32:14 GMT[Celebrate National Day with Tan Kin Lian] All supporters are welcome to join Mr Tan on his walk around Marina Bay tonight, at 7pm. Here are the details..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:58:56 GMT[What does "being more professional" mean?] Dear Mr. Tan: The board of NTUC Income said they asked you to leave because they wanted the company to be more professional. But you were able to achieve success in building up NTUC Income. (REPLY: It is the prerogative of the board.. The ultimate test is as follows.. )http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:53:44 GMTDear Mr Shanmugam, I refer to these 8 Aug 2011 ST reports of your statements about the EP: [He has 'extremely important roles and powers], [President is constitutional head of state]. You said elections do not give the EP the right to speak independently.. (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:46:04 GMT[Statements do not justify Tan Cheng Bock's interpretation, says Shanmugam] If the Law Minister wants to argue the letter of the law, he should be able to explain the law, instead of making obfuscating statements. That is the very opposite of what law should be.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:33:04 GMTIn response, Mr Shanmugam said he does not think his statements justify any interpretations made by potential presidential candidate, Dr Tan Cheng Bock. He added that he does not want to comment on the issue any further.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:26:43 GMT[Endorsing a presidential candidate] In the middle of Feb this year, TOC was gazetted as a political association. Since The Federation of Tan Clan Associations has now engaged in a political activity, should it not be similarly gazetted? (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:23:54 GMT[It's telling how ill-conceived this office is when Presidential candidates are still debating about their job scope] So here's my advice to the govt: Keep it simple, stupid. Do away with the office of the EP altogether. I believe there is no current role the President is performing that cannot be taken over by the Cabinet or the Parliament (Terence Lee, New Nation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:11:03 GMT[3rd "Singaporeans First!" Event at Speakers' Corner on Sat, 13 Aug, 5pm] We have lined up several speakers who will speak their mind as usual on issues that affect S'poreans. Mr Leong Sze Hian and Mr Tony Tan (NSP candidate for Choa Chu Kang GRC in 2011 GE), among others, will be gracing the occasion.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 05:03:03 GMT["We should be especially careful of one issue. While we will always put S'poreans 1st, let us not turn negative on foreigners." - PM Lee, National Day Rally 2011] What are your thoughts? Does PAP always put S'poreans 1st? Are we turning 'negative' on foreigners?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 04:57:28 GMTAt the swearing-in ceremony of new MPs after GE 2011, PM Lee said, "More interest groups and alternative views have emerged, competing for support. Our political system can and must accommodate more views, more debate and more participation." But when "interest groups" gathered at Starbucks to sip coffee PEACEFULLY, the police showed up (RogerPoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 04:50:29 GMTDr Lim was detained by the PAP Govt without trial for 20 years under Operation Coldtsore in 1963. Before presenting him with a memento, Dr Wong Wee Nam paid tribute to Dr Lim. Below are excerpts of Dr Wong's speech.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 04:43:03 GMTChallenged by writer SW Cheong that our Museum is not the world class flagship NHB embarked on to build 9 years ago, Tommy Koh admitted that it received complaints about the approach to tell the Singapore story. "The bureaucratic instinct is to be defensive but my instinct is the opposite." With that kind of sentiment, it is easy to understand why Koh is not joining the $4 million race. That, plus the fact his surname is not Tan (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 04:34:22 GMTWhen Tony first announced his candidacy, there was an immediate barrage of support and endorsements. Over the last few days, the surprising development was the attack on Tony's son, Patrick and his NS deferment. The stand of the main media at the moment is reticence. Where are all the eminent colleagues of Tony, and are they going to stand up to defend him? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 02:04:49 GMTNervous sell-offs in Asia's equity markets in response to debt problems in the United States and the eurozone underscore the region's growing links to financial events on the other side of the world. But with increased integration comes the increased threat of contagion (Iwan J Azis is head of ADB's OREI, and Cyn-Young Park is a principal economist with OREI) China Dailyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 01:12:15 GMTAsian markets have been hammered amid fears that the U.S. is heading for a recession, and after Wall Street posted the biggest losses since late 2008. "You can't control it. You have the onset of fear in the market. There are a lot of things that don't make sense." Analysts said a number of issues had created the current market pessimism. At the heart of the problem is.. (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 00:59:37 GMT[Stick Market Turmoil - fear as opportunity? ....Part 2] Yesterday's fall of US stock market (Dow Jones Index fell by 600 points) is quite stunning. So, will there be a short term rebound? ....Hmm... let's put it this way - there better be one soon, or the market turmoil will put us into recession faster than the European debt crisis can.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 00:38:09 GMT[Why I left NTUC Income in 2007] Watch this video for my statement. Here is the written text of the statement.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 00:29:40 GMT"We ran for our lives as thugs ambushed bus": Chaos across the capital as orgy of violence rages on (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 00:27:50 GMT[Beatrice Chia-Richmond, Creative Director of NDP 2011] Beatrice shares what the challenges of staging a musical for NDP are, and what happened to that infamous Fun Pack song [not mine hor].http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 09 Aug 2011 00:24:24 GMT[Tan Kin Lian activities for National Day] (1) Walkabout at Block 105 Hougang Avenue 1 / Lorong Ah Soo.. (2) National Day parade viewing..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 23:57:16 GMT[S'PORE - Survival and Opportunities In An Uncertain World] A forum. Light buffet lunch will be provided. Admission is free. The auditorium seats only 60 people. Mr Tan Jee Say will share his insights on how he sees S'pore moving forward during these crucial times.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 23:54:29 GMT[Good Morning, SINGAPORE] Happy Birthday. How will you be spending your day? I'll be taking the MRT this morning with young friends and giving out flags. I'm looking forward to representing Aljunied GRC among the audience at NDP later today. Will post about it tonight.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 23:37:14 GMTA recent NYT article noted that the number of men age 65 and older increased by 21 percent from 2000 to 2010, nearly double the 11.2 percent growth rate for women in that age group. What are the implications -- the benefits and the costs -- of having more men around longer? How might this narrowing gap change society and male-female relationships? (Six experts share their views)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 23:27:48 GMTSurrender! Powerless police let the mob seize the streets, looting shops and starting fires in their wake (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 23:20:15 GMTThe main U.S. share index, the Dow Jones, has plummeted 5.6%, despite President Obama moving to try to reassure investors. In points terms, the Dow ended down 635 to 10,810, its biggest one-day decline since October 2008, and the 6th largest on record (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 23:15:43 GMTHappy N Day from me and Fatimah [MP, Marine Parade GRC] across Lorong Ah Soo from Aljunied GRC ! (Fan's comment: Hahaha! Like your sense of humor, Mr Chen! ;)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 19:06:22 GMT"The men and women in our pioneer generation have borne society's burdens for the past 46 years and more... Our nation must now give its best in return to them." (lots of encouraging Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 18:50:15 GMT[A new National Day for me] Parliament will sit again on 10 October. For me, national day will not be the same again. I remain proud of my country, even more so now donning the colours of WP blue, and ever mindful of my role in the new normal that our country has arrived at.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 18:42:40 GMTOne consequence of the stock market decline is that everyone is talking about investing in gold as it hits record highs. But what are they saying? (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 18:28:13 GMT[Reign of Confusion at the NYT] The NYT told readers that a 2nd recession could be even worse than the 1st. There is some serious confusion here that is worth addressing.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 18:23:48 GMT26 Large Photos (BostonGlobe)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 18:19:42 GMT["I wasn't at all suggesting that only Govt-endorsed candidates can be influential. I want to be absolutely clear that any such suggestion would be wrong." - PAP Law Minister K Shanmugam] Did we misinterpret him or was he quoted out of context again?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 18:15:51 GMT[Shanmugam: Statements do not justify Tan Cheng Bock's interpretation] Law Minister Shanmugam added that he does not want to comment on the issue any further. He said this in response to Dr Tan who, in an earlier statement, had claimed that Mr Shanmugam had "set a stage of confrontation between the Prez and the PM."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 16:11:48 GMT"Sudden and large investor withdrawals triggered by market events or counterparty risk concerns can also lead to funding liquidity risk." Translation: A big crash involving ETFs is possible and you should be careful. Here are some guidelines.. (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 16:00:06 GMT[A Few Good Men?] embarrassing. It hurts! How can a man be good when.. How can another man be good when.. How can the 3rd man be good when.. I look forward to see Martyn See doing a documentary on the Real "A Few Good Men and Women" of S'pore. The heroes who who fought the occupiers instead of selling away their souls to benefit themselves! May the heroes rest in peace and Happy National Day to all!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:49:15 GMTMillionaire Adam Khoo backs Dr Tony Tan for president...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:39:39 GMTPE2011 Best Dressed Candidates.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:35:35 GMT[There were 2 moments in my life when I was exceedingly self-conscious purchasing from bookstores - Joshua Chiang] Dr Chee Soon Juan was the man who shook this writer from his political apathy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:31:53 GMTGlobal stock markets have extended heavy losses suffered last week despite the European Central Bank saying it intended to buy up govt debt (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:26:08 GMT[Most re-hired retired teachers get 18% pay cut] MOE has clarified on the 30 percent pay cut issue. What do you think?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:18:36 GMTNow with the latest developments in Europe and the U.S., the possibility of a double dip recession is on the cards. The decision to approve the hike, which will kick in from October, came too soon. The question now is whether the authorities should proceed with implementation of the 1% hike from October 8 (Chan Jia Hui - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:16:09 GMT["The one-per cent fare increase is a fair and balanced decision by PTC." - PAP Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew] Do you agree with him?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:11:12 GMTLui says public transport fare increase is fair and balanced.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:07:54 GMTAs S'pore celebrates its 46th year of independence, it is important to remind ourselves that we are where we are because of the tenacity, resilience and hard work of our forefathers. S'pore's only asset is its people, and this should never be forgotten.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 15:00:30 GMT"I was actually quite puzzled by what Mr Tan Kin Lian said about that the board wanting the cooperatives to be more commercial because to the best of my knowledge, I think to become more commercial, to become more professional are 2 different things. My understanding is that..." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 14:52:22 GMTThe insurer AIG is suing Bank of America Corp to recover more than US$10 billion of losses from a "massive fraud" on mortgage debt, deepening the morass of litigation faced by the largest U.S. bank (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 14:47:07 GMTBilled as a "Magazine That Reads You," Editions, a new iPad app, aggregates content from thousands of websites, and delivers personalized information once a day with local news and weather, and includes a table of contents and a magazine cover (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 14:44:12 GMTA Week in Pictures - 7 August 2011 (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 14:26:04 GMT[Stick Market Turmoil - fear as opportunity?] Nothing looks good for stocks in this environment - nothing is going right for the stock market.... and nobody dares to buy stocks given the head winds... however... I think stocks will head up - at least in the short term. The rebound comes when some of the fear subside and investors remember that... So are we going to get a bounce soon? I think so....http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 14:08:59 GMT[I am Singaporean, humble and contented] As a nation, we will forever be grateful to that generation - the generation of my parents. They did well and thank you. And, as a nation, we have to move forward. We have to find the new normal. The new normal was established on May 7, 2011 when the population took charge of the collective destiny.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 12:42:08 GMT[SDP celebrates National Day : part 1] Speaking to TOC at the sidelines of the dinner, Dr Chee Soon Juan said SDP invited every potential Presidential Candidate to the dinner. However, only Mr Tan Jee Say and Mr Tan Kin Lian could attend.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 12:29:44 GMT* in WORDLE form *http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 12:16:50 GMTPrime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's National Day Messagehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 12:05:02 GMT[SDP honours ex-ISA detainee Dr Lim Hock Siew] Born in 1931, incarcerated in 1963 and released in 1981. Now 80 years old, Dr Lim sits quietly, his wife by his side, as members of SDP and guests pays tribute to him... Dr Wong Wee Nam, a family physician, relates his admiration for S'pore's 2nd-longest serving ISA detainee, who served 18 years behind bars.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 11:53:04 GMT[National Day Message 2011] Politics is the Responsibility of all Citizenshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 11:33:53 GMT[National Day Message from Tan Kin Lian] Watch the National Day message, in 4 languages, from Tan Kin Lian - to be streamed live on 8 August at 10 pm at this channel..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 08:59:04 GMT[Dr Tan Cheng Bock's response to Minister Shanmugam's comments: ST, 8 Aug 2011] Is the Minister questioning the decision of the PEC and the choice of the voters? Is he saying the choice of the voters of S'pore matters little? This is a very judgmental approach to the office of a Presidency elected by all S'poreans. It amounts to "I will hear you if I respect you and if I like you". I hope this view is not shared by the PM.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 08:38:21 GMTSingapore is hiring a new president...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 08:32:43 GMTLaw Minister Shanmugam dismissed Sunday the need to clarify the powers of the President of S'pore, saying that the Constitution was very clear on the matter. "I cannot speak for future govts nor can I speak, honestly, for the entire Cabinet on what might happen in the future. You ask me, today, is the position clear? As I said at the IPS forum, I think the position is crystal clear." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 08:28:34 GMT[NATHAN: I'VE DONE MY BEST] Outgoing President S R Nathan, who has been criticised for having done nothing of note during his 12 years of office, issued a passionate defence of his record in an interview with The Straits Times. Here are some excerpts.. (The Satay Club)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 08:14:06 GMTPresident Nathan: done the best I can. Really?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 08:08:19 GMT["I've done the best I can. If it's good enough for some people, fine. If it's not good enough for some people, and there will always be noise in the environment, you can't stop it." - S R Nathan, President of Singapore from 1999 to 2011] Are we 'noise' in the environment?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 08:03:46 GMT[The danger in clan endorsement of presidential candidates] As someone who had been in govt for so many years, Dr Tony Tan seems oblivious to the potential divide his acceptance of such an endorsement may bring. Indeed, it makes one wonder how he would be a "unifying" figure for all S'poreans. Would he have done the same if there were non-Chinese presidential hopefuls in the contest?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 07:56:12 GMTSecretary-General Tan Lian Ker: "In my opinion, Dr Tony Tan is the most qualified person among the six [hopefuls] for the post of president. I would strongly urge all chairmen of Tan clan associations to call on their members to support and vote for [him]." Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 07:41:54 GMTThe O $ P $ Issue (II) : Below contains extract of an email from an exasperated innocent Hougang constituent facing harassments from loan sharks. This constituent has brought up some valid points. With the constituent's permission, the contents are reproduced here for our reading..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 07:36:30 GMTNational Day Statement 2011 - Honouring Our First Generation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 07:33:06 GMTI refer to the letter "MOM to NGOs: It's critical to be objective". As a small, non-profit organisation with few staff and resources, HOME lack the capacity and are not vested with powers to conduct investigations. NGOs are also disallowed from participating in MOM's mediation sessions to independently verify claims. In spite of this..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 06:11:36 GMTMs Stephanie Chok's letter "Punish criminal acts but deter errant bosses, too" contains several inaccuracies. NGOs who listen to only one side and simply assume that the employer is wrong in every instance do themselves a disservice. We urge NGOs to assess each case objectively and comprehensively, rather than rushing to assign blame (Letter from Farah Abdul Rahim, MOM - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 06:02:44 GMTThe support of responsible gambling moderates an image of gambling operators as exploiters of human weaknesses to one that presents them as being caring of their clientele. It cleverly shifts the problems of gambling from the operators to the players.. a dangerous ploy that leads a person down the slippery slope of recreational gambling to problem gambling (Willie Cheng - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 05:50:03 GMTWe refer to Ms Ho Suit Keng's letter: 'Don't ban ward switch entirely'. Those who choose a private ward class and subsequently face difficulty paying their bills can approach the hospital to request a downgrade in subsidy status, subject to a financial assessment (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 05:34:25 GMTOne reason patients are saddled with hefty hospital bills is that they have to choose an A-class ward instead of the subsidised B-class ward when beds in the latter are unavailable. Consequently, they are barred from switching to B-class beds, and are saddled with hefty A-class charges (Ho Suit Keng - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 05:28:30 GMT[Presidential election a referendum on PAP] Are we voting for our president or the PAP's president?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 04:07:48 GMT[Lee Kuan Yew - giant of a repressive decade] "The scars of the 1987 detentions lasted for 30 years; it is only in recent years that the former detainees have felt able to tell their own stories and ask the questions that have cast such doubt on the govt's official account."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 04:05:01 GMT[Minister Shanmugan forced to eat his words] If you watch local politics, you will know what this really means is that over the weekend, Minister Shanmugan was probably: 1. Hauled up for what he had said; 2. Scolded by one of three people in S'pore who dare scold him; 3. and Forced to make an embarrassing u-turn to limit the damage..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 03:49:14 GMT[10,000 people speaking up cannot be ignored] Dr Tambyah was the guest speaker at SDP's National Day dinner last Saturday. He related that he continued to thrive in his post as an teaching physician at a local major university hospital despite his speaking up for SDP during GE 2011. Dr Tambyah called on S'poreans to speak up and not be afraid to do so because times have changed. Below are exerpts of his speech.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 02:26:45 GMTThe lay people have their own interpretation and expectation of an EP - a President whom they took the trouble to vote. The Law Minister too has a view. He even quoted the constitution. There is still the judicial, the courts of law that will have the final say. From what was reported.. if he is nice to PM, he may be able to influence PM over beer, I think (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 02:12:34 GMT....."Whether the President actually wields influence - depends on who the President is. If he is someone who commands little or no respect, then influence will be limited." In all fairness, let's substitute the word "President" with "Minister" in the above sentence he made at the IPS seminar. [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 02:06:04 GMTIf you don't say what you mean, how can you mean what you say? No wonder many S'poreans are confused as to what the EP is all about. If all the guy wants is a pet poodle - think George Bush and Tony Blair in the Iraq war WMD charade - why not cut to the chase and say so? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 01:53:16 GMTOur local ST has an article which says a 1-party system is the way to go. The problems leading to U.S. downgrade are a result of the bickering and indecisiveness of a 2-party system... 1-party system, multi-party system, dictatorship, communism, monarchy - all will end with the same fate, with the same set of problems, all because of human greed (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 01:22:26 GMT[Expletives, Profanities And S'poreans: Why Fucking Bother?] Miss Trinetta Chong should not be faulted for the mere exclamation of the word "fucking" (at the end of her convocation speech) per se; however, there is a time and place for everything where individuals might be particularly conservative or uncomfortable with these liberal expressions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 01:11:31 GMTForeigners were a hot election issue this year, but many are here for more than a quick buck, and happy to call Singapore home (Aimee Chan - CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 00:11:28 GMT[Streaming of Financial Planning Talk] Here is a recorded version of the streaming of the Financial Planning talk. Here is the handout for the talk.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 00:06:07 GMTHow One Decision May Bankrupt Singapore - Joseph Tanhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 08 Aug 2011 00:01:00 GMTU.S. decline leaves China tipped as next economic superpower while pressure on U.S. bonds is set to affect eurozone crisis.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 23:52:57 GMTObama faces biggest challenges of presidency as nation mourns largest casualty ever in the War in Afghanistan (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 23:48:47 GMT[The fundamental difference between the presidential candidates] Dr Tony Tan wants as much power as possible to be kept with the PAP govt. The rest of the qualified candidates want the President to play a more influential role, and indirectly, they want more power to be returned to the people. This is becoming very clear to me as the presidential race continues..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 23:24:35 GMTIn a recent wide-ranging interview, President Nathan was asked, among other things, how the President discharges his power to grant pardons to convicts on Death Row (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 23:14:28 GMT[As President, 'I will be the conscience of the nation,' says Jee Say] And that is why Tan Jee Say has got the PAP regime quaking in their boots!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 23:10:46 GMT[Shanmugam clarifies comments on President's role - CNA] Mr Shanmugam said: "If there are disagreements, as previously it has happened before, we can always get it resolved through the courts."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 22:19:48 GMTAny suggestions that only a Govt-endorsed presidential candidate can be influential as the EP "would be wrong". Minister Shanmugam said his remarks during the IPS forum was to clarify what had been set out in the Constitution, and to help in bringing about "a more informed debate". Adding that it would not be appropriate for him to comment further, Mr Shanmugam said the other Presidential hopefuls "are entitled to their views" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 22:16:08 GMTI always want to give benefit of the doubt. But this video of a fishmonger at a market reaching out to shake Tony Tan's hand and his reaction, seems to tell me otherwise. It literally plays in to what many people have been thinking, about those in power, being out of touch. I don't want an aloof leader, but someone who is humble and goes all out to serve. I see Chen Show Mao doing this brilliantly. I am quite sure he wins over more people by the day (bookjunkie)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 22:13:31 GMTFederation sec-gen Tan Lian Ker urged chairmen of various Tan clan associations to call on their members to vote for Dr Tony Tan in the PE.. the federation would not be inviting the other presidential hopefuls to speak to its members. "Strictly speaking, we don't want to get involved, but Dr Tony Tan happens to be our honorary advisor so when it came to the meeting and he's standing for election, we must give our support to him." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 21:56:49 GMTUncle think different! On MPs' walkabout in Eunos today.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 21:44:05 GMTThe best images from this year's Community Shield at Wembley as Manchester City and Manchester United open the season with an absorbing match (TheGuardian)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 21:39:22 GMT[Dumb President Plays 5 Stones and PAP Paints Itself Into A Corner!] Let's hope Eddie Teo, Chan Lai Fung and Sat Pal Khattar of PEC will do what their conscience, not their boss, tells them to do! The headache that PAP is having now is a good example of the universal truth - we reap what we sow! In their selfish greed to hang on to power, they are now in limbo. They have painted themselves into the corner . . . again!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 16:30:56 GMTQuestions for the Law Minister...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:58:34 GMT[Carrying out the pledges] Dear Mr Tan: You are the only Presidential hopeful who has pledged to donate at least half of the President's salary to charity. The other hopefuls are keeping silent on this point. You have also explained in detail how you wish to implement the "voice of the people" by forming a Presidential Personal Council..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:57:07 GMTPresident cannot do this, cannot do that...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:53:40 GMT[Tan Jee Say says he will not Confuse the People and I Agree] I think Tan Jee Say's speech at an event to celebrate S'pore's 46th birthday is well worth the listen. He rebuts what has been harped on repeatedly in the msm recently, about what the President cannot do.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:52:10 GMT["The Federation of Tan Clan Associations in S'pore, which has over 10,000 members, has endorsed Dr Tony Tan's bid to be the Republic's next President." - CNA, 7 August 2011] What do the Tans think? Do you endorse Tony Tan, your clansman?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:47:14 GMT[10,000 Tans against Tony Tan] The Federation of Tan Clan Associations should stay out of politics, and let all of us Tans decide for ourselves who we want to vote for!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:44:34 GMT[Dr Tan Cheng Bock speaks out against Shanmugam's "arrogance"] "If he wants to do anything effectively, he must have the RESPECT of the govt and the ministers." - PAP Law Minister Shanmugam. Then just ask the PAP MPs to vote, why bother us with an election?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:38:23 GMT[Tan federation endorses Tony Tan] 10,000 Tans for One Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:33:14 GMT[Are You Ever Ready for Anything?] I think DPM Teo's admission of weakness is a welcome change for S'pore. A govt filled with people who are secure enough to admit their own failings is more likely to be a govt that gets round to the business of solving problems for the people, instead of a govt bent on defending a perfect record when it is clearly not perfect.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:30:40 GMT[Joo Chiat Today: Kindling the pioneering spirit of our forefathers] Speaking with Philip Chew, great grandson of Chew Joo Chiat brought me back to S'pore in the 1800s and 1900s where our forefathers came mostly with nothing on them (Chew Joo Chiat was one of them).. and demonstrated that through hard work and strong business acumen, we can succeed.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 15:25:23 GMTShanmugam clarifies comments on President's role.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 14:35:04 GMT[Victims of Spa packages] Dear Mr Tan: As you are seen as the voice of the common people in S'pore, I hope you will help spread the word to the estimated 20,000 True Spa & Subtle Senses victims. Please join us in the fight to get our money back. Thank you. Ally Lee.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 12:19:29 GMT[Wall Photos] Tony Tan should take some lessons from Low Thia Kiang on how to shake hands in a proper manner first.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 12:14:01 GMTThe New Straits Times is completely right. As much as I had wished to see a President that is above politics, that is clearly not possible now. A moral vacuum would be created (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 12:07:41 GMT[As President, 'I will be the conscience of the nation,' says Jee Say] I caught up with him Friday afternoon. I began by asking what he thought people looked for in a president. In his view, he said, "people look for someone independent of the PAP who will have the moral authority to provide check and balance."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 11:38:58 GMT[Debt ceiling for GIC and Temasek before the Perfect Storm] Supposing Tony is the new EP by 27 August 2011, and he has knowledge of the problems or troubles (Perfect Storm) in GIC and Temasek, will he stop the automatic fund transfer from govt to these 2 companies? "If a head of state challenges the Govt, he will be acting unconstitutionally."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 11:37:20 GMT[Foreign talents, please shut your mouths and keep a low profile in S'pore] Should foreigners living in S'pore be allowed to comment on domestic politics?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 11:28:08 GMT[Why antibiotics should not be used for common infections in the community] There is a misperception that antibiotics help to speed up recovery, or are able to prevent the symptoms from worsening. Here are 5 reasons why antibiotics should not be prescribed.. Antibiotics should only be reserved for serious illness such as pneumonia, and in patients with existing medical conditions such as..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 11:23:42 GMT[WP supporter hits back at PAP supporters over non-tender saga: "Look into the mirror before judging others"] People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. Jack Lin Xinli, Lionel De Souza: are you people the 'pot' calling the kettle black? Get real. Look in the mirror before judging others. "Hypocrisy is the outward acknowledgment of inward shame."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 06:17:14 GMT[Tony Tan continues to use PAP fear-mongering tactics to intimidate S'poreans] On his FB page, Tony Tan used the recent financial market turmoil for his message that S'poreans need a knowledgeable and experienced President to protect PAP's reserves. Tony Tan's claims of his 'credentials' appear to contradict a public proclaimation made by PAP Law Minister..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 06:03:54 GMT['A very difficult transition' if PAP falls from power: DPM Teo] Of course, DPM will not admit that it is because the PAP has made sure that it will be a difficult transition...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 05:53:26 GMT[The Presidential Elections - Wah lau eh!] By saying the presidency is not a political office, and the President has to speak to act on the advice of the Cabinet, we have once again come up against the "uniquely Singapore" definition of "politics": it's not "political" if you agree with the govt (that is, at this present time, made up of PAP). It's only "political" if you want to express a view that is not in line with their party line.. wah lau eh!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 04:43:24 GMT1) Voices of concern - capital punishment .. 2) Social problems in Singapore .. 3) Does the constitution allows the President to speak up?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 04:33:09 GMT[Blocking spam SMSes too much of a hassle] When matters are made so complicated, I doubt if anyone would bother to lodge complaints against spammers, and these companies and the regulatory authorities would get the false impression that no one minds.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 04:15:41 GMTWe refer to Mr Shi's letter: 'Loan quantum puts flat beyond reach'. Mr Shi and his wife were aware of the loan quantum HDB could offer before they booked their flat.. together with their CPF savings and cash proceeds from sale of their previous 4-room flat, would be sufficient to purchase the new flat (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 04:04:33 GMTI truly wonder if public housing is affordable any more if citizens, like my family who have heeded the Govt's call to have more children, have to find more than a quarter of a million dollars to make the downpayment on a subsidised public flat (Shi Weilong - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 03:56:19 GMT'No requirement that President should be dumb'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 03:41:45 GMT[Why Tancho Tan?] It is almost a given that S'pore politics will evolve into a multi-party system. As PAP's popularity can slide below 50%, there is a chance the coalition of losers might even oust PAP from power [it nearly happened in UK]. TT is crucial to PAP's Machiavellian scheme to rejig the Presidential role to cover this contingency. TT is a Hegelian construct of PAP the same way GRC is..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 03:28:49 GMT['A populist govt is not desirable for the nation'] With the last 5 years having polarised and stratified the population, many of whom remain unconvinced by some of his govt's policies, and with the declining electoral support for his party under his leadership, PM Lee has a tough job ahead.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 03:10:14 GMT[Response to a Fellow S'porean on Fare Changes] Something cheerful about the recent public transport fare increases, says Josephine Teo.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 02:55:09 GMTDPM Teo, speaking to 250 young S'poreans at a forum.. responding to student Kenneth Zhang who asked for his take on when one would know if he is ready to enter politics. Another student asked if he could ever envision a S'pore not governed by the ruling PAP, and he responded with the affirmative (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 02:50:56 GMT'Let us have for once an angel as PM, as we have been having questionable characters heading the govt.' (MalaysiaKini)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 02:26:04 GMTOn Friday, the Thai parliament voted in the country's 1st woman PM. At 44, Yingluck Shinawatra is also the world's youngest female PM. Beyond the record books, however, real issues and tough questions have started to bite. The 1st test of her political mettle is.. The 2nd test is.. The 3rd test for Yingluck's new govt is.. (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 02:17:27 GMTFollowing Dana Kay's article "Brain Drain: The story behind the dwindling Chinese in Malaysia", I believe this applies not just to the M'sian Chinese population, but M'sians in general (Douglas Tan is a DAP member - Malaysia Chronicle)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 02:11:18 GMT[Out for world domination] Nash Benjamin, CEO of S'pore's most famous fashion retailer, tells about the FJ Benjamin journey from Lanvin to Rodeo Drive to Guess? - and the plans to conquer the globe with its house brand, Raoul (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 00:35:20 GMT[Seventh moon] I was at the dinner for the Hougang St 22 Zaixing Zhongyuan festivities last night and appeared on stage with the organizing committee.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 00:31:35 GMT[The credibility and integrity of S&P's ratings action] Treasury's official response to the S&P downgrade has arrived, and it makes for pretty depressing reading. Treasury's taking a shoot-the-messenger approach..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 00:28:24 GMTGiven the drama of the debt-ceiling debate, this is a good moment for investors and policymakers alike to look back over the past decade at the mistakes made by U.S. institutions, private sector and govt. If this were a college final exam, it would be in essay form.. consider this the answer key to that exam (Barry Ritholtz)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 00:15:14 GMTBanks distribute a wide array of financial products to meet the investment and protection needs of their customers.. but more importantly, to provide their customers with convenience and access to more product offerings (Ong-Ang Ai Boon, Assn of Banks in S'pore - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 00:07:40 GMTAs we had previous bad experiences buying through insurance agents who were keen on pushing only their own companies' products, we thought of buying through banks instead.. we thought they would be independent. We were wrong (Jessie Loy - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 07 Aug 2011 00:00:04 GMTThe story behind the dwindling Chinese in Malaysia (Dana Kay, Malaysia Chronicle)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 23:43:58 GMTWorldwide wind instruments.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 23:39:53 GMTElite bin Laden hunters from Seal Team Six among 30 dead American soldiers as special forces helicopter is shot down in Afghanistan (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 23:34:59 GMT[No Constitutional requirement that President should be 'dumb' - Tan Kin Lian] This is the type of President we should vote into the Istana, not another 'yes-man' to the PAP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 15:54:34 GMTLaw professor Thio Li-ann said there should be a legal requirement for PEC to explain its decision when it awards the Certificate of Eligibility. Prof Thio also argued there could be a need to "improve the system" by allowing the right to reply or giving potential candidates ["potentially defamed as someone with poor character"] the chance to have an interview with the committee. However, Minister Shanmugam emphasised that.. (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 15:47:56 GMT[Presidential election a referendum on PAP - NewStraitsTimes, M'sia] "The worst outcome for PAP would be a no-contest situation," warns a former senior civil servant, "because people would be upset that nothing had changed, that there was no response to the new political consciousness."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 15:32:16 GMTPoll: 94 percent prefer a President with a heart for S'poreans over knowledge and experience.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 15:27:14 GMTHe said for S'pore to stay afloat, there are 4 important priorities. They are: to keep a spirit of consensus in politics.. (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 15:24:27 GMT[Exceptional treatment for exceptional individuals?] Take a deep breath - this will be a long one. We did lots of digging. We even approached netizen Jessica Tan for help (as she first highlighted it in Temasek Review Emeritus)..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 15:13:03 GMTI am writing in response to Colonel Desmond Tan [Mindef's Public Affairs dept]'s letter in ST Forum. My goal is to highlight the U.S. system of medical admissions, given my extensive interaction with academia from U.S. medical schools. In doing so, I also wish to point out potential drawbacks and problems with Mindef's disruption policy (Faisal Wali - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 15:06:58 GMTHe says it's a reminder of the "extraordinary sacrifices" being made by America's military and its families (AP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 14:56:08 GMTThe new £289m [S$600m] Peterborough Hospital which treated comedian Rowan Atkinson after his car accident suffered a major power failure while he was a patient (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 14:53:57 GMTWhy S'poreans are peeved by Presidential hopeful Tony Tan's son's NS fiasco.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 14:38:12 GMT"Dr Patrick Tan says he was attached to DMERI for his NS. There's a big difference between being posted to DMERI and being attached there. If he was attached, what was his parent unit? What was he supposed to be doing if he wasn't attached out?" Does anybody know the reservist unit of Dr Patrick Tan? Tony Tan is now keeping quiet in the hope that it will blow over. Let's keep the issue 'alive' for him.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 14:29:02 GMTThe NYT Misrepresents China's Options and Accounting Identities.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 14:23:57 GMTDifferent treatments of retired teachers...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 14:15:14 GMT[Former teacher peeved at MOE's decision to cut pay of retired teachers] Any teachers or ex-teachers here care to share their thoughts on this matter with us?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 14:13:47 GMT[Memorial gathering in honor of Tan Jing Quee] Jing Quee was one of the most prolific writers and poets in S'pore. He was determined to record history truthfully, according to what he witnessed as a citizen, politician and citizen again. Imprisoned under the ISA in 1963 and again in 1977, he refused to be cowed like so many of us who suffered detention without trial..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 13:37:32 GMTPAP must continue bringing in able, committed people to stay in power: DPM Teohttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 13:28:20 GMT[Massive ST propaganda to promote ex-SPH Chairman Tony Tan] Notice that ST has stopped reporting on Dr Patrick Tan's NS stint, and did not mention his father's 'dead fish' handshake which will surely become fodder for the tabloids in an otherwise free and independent media elsewhere.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 13:12:37 GMTThe downgrading of America [putting the USA below the UK, Germany, France, Singapore, Finland and 14 other countries] is a humiliation for a nation constantly fretting about its potential decline. It reinforces a very common belief here, that the squabbling politicians in Washington are to blame for many of the country's ills (Mark Mardell, BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 13:10:05 GMTDear Dr Tony Tan: Many countries including U.K., Switzerland and the U.S. only provided limited, finite bank guarantee during the financial crisis. Why didn't S'pore resist the pressure the way many other countries did? By providing limitless guarantees, didn't we become more vulnerable by exposing ourselves to hundreds of billions of dollars of potential losses? (SINGAPORE RESERVES)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 13:03:48 GMTMarkets turmoil a reminder of President's important custodial powers: Tony Tanhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 12:47:56 GMTA vote for their candidate is a vote for the PAP revenue maximizing way of governing S'pore. Do I want that? Obviously not. If Tony becomes President, there is little need to discuss issues with the PM. They were cut from the same tree and on the same page. Why do we want a PAP clone in the Istana? (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 12:45:05 GMTOn a side note, Law Minister Shanmugam does have balls to speak out this plain fact in public. But he forgets that politics is not just right or wrong but rather, understanding the emotion of the people and having empathy in its message. You can be right, but if you deliver it wrongly the momentum will prove you to be wrong (UnbiasedElectorate)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 12:40:54 GMT[Dr Tan Cheng Bock's response to "Law Minister debunks notions on what president can say"] The President is elected by S'poreans. This office should be accorded due respect. I am therefore surprised by Law Minister Shanmugam's remarks. Is the Minister saying.. ? Then how is the President to be above politics?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 12:28:06 GMT[Law Minister's veiled threat to the electorate?] So, why can't the President say it? Such an arrangement is akin to giving the President even less freedom of expression than the average citizen. If that is the case, the question might be, "we vote for what?"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 12:22:54 GMT["The president cannot reject advice given by the Cabinet. And he cannot engage in public debate with the govt." - PAP Law Minister Shanmugam, 5 Aug 2011, IPS Forum] Since there are so many things the EP cannot do, then why are we still paying him $4.2 million dollars a year? To shake hands, hug babies and flip pratas?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 12:14:54 GMT$4m to help needy families...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 11:39:18 GMT[No update on review of ministerial salaries, but quick to raise public transport fares] Approving applications by SBS and SMRT to raise transport fares: 1 month. Reviewing ministerial salaries: still pending after 3 months. What is Gerard Ee thinking or doing?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 11:35:36 GMT[S'pore's religious landscape from Census 2010] The elite and upwardly mobile tend towards Christianity. Yet, out of 24 new candidates introduced by PAP prior to May 2011 GE, 12 of them (50%) declared themselves to be Christian or Catholic. In other words, not only were they far from representative of S'poreans as a whole, they weren't even representative of the economic elite from which they were drawn.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 11:23:33 GMTA US helicopter crash in eastern Afghanistan has killed 31 US special forces and 7 Afghan soldiers. The incident is believed to be the biggest single loss of life for US forces in Afghanistan since they began operations in 2001 (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 10:19:23 GMT[Statement from Tan Kin Lian - Can the President speak?] I agree with the Law Minister Shanmugan on the duties of the President and how they are to be carried out, in so far as they are stated specifically and clearly in the Constitution. I do not agree with his view that the President cannot speak about anything else without the approval of the Govt..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 04:17:35 GMTInstead of wasting your votes on a President who doesn't have the Constitutional powers to change anything, please vote for the [Opposition] parties you want to represent you in Parliament. If you do it right, and if the other parties play their cards right, we can have a coalition govt- without the PAP- in 2016 (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 04:07:20 GMTIn a high-powered forum, Law Minister Shanmugam repeated his position that the EP is not to be heard, or cannot express any views unless approved by the Govt. Does the country really need to pay him so many millions to perform such a role? [Reader's Comment: Why go to the trouble of selecting someone stipulating all the sky high qualities that cannot be mentally tapped?] MySingaporeNewshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 03:58:09 GMTThe President can only act or speak as advised by the Cabinet.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 03:46:57 GMTShanmugam: President cannot engage in public debate with PAP govt.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 03:12:12 GMT[NS deferment limits set for fairness] "There is a limit to how long a person's NS obligations can reasonably be deferred when others in his cohort have already been enlisted and some have even completed their NS. In our universal conscription system where equity is a key tenet,.." - MINDEF, 2001. Apparently, some people are more 'equal' than others.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 03:08:08 GMTPhony Tony and His Phony Handshake: Seet Ai Mee Part II .http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 03:04:28 GMT[An interesting video] It was said that a certain fishmonger helped SDP's Ling How Doong win the Bukit Gombak Election in 1991 against the then acting Minister of Community Development Seet Ai Mee. The first ever defeat for a minister.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 01:38:08 GMTI read with interest Dr Tony Tan's comment on the global economy and how he sees "dark clouds on the horizon" and things building up to a "perfect storm". I think to have such a talented and proven leader move to a role that is constrained by the Constitution has deprived GIC of the enlightened pilot it would need at its helm as dark clouds gather over the horizon (Letter from James Ang - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 01:33:34 GMTIt was the week of the defensive crouch. In the face of wrenching global economic and political events, many traders, corporate treasurers and pension managers decided that cash and U.S. Treasuries were the safest places to be (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 01:21:35 GMTHere is the great irony: S&P [and the rest of the ratings agencies] helped contribute in no small way to the overall economic crisis. The toadies rated junk securitized mortgage backed paper AAA because they were paid to do so by banks (Barry Ritholtz)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 01:08:16 GMTMinister Shanmugam noted that while it is the task of Govt to communicate to the public what powers the President has and what the issues are, S'poreans should also educate themselves.. presidential candidates also have a responsibility to help people understand what they stand for. But he stressed: "Just make sure what you say to people is consistent with what you can constitutionally perform. Don't say things you can't do." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 00:50:03 GMT[Presidential Elections Committee] Prof Thio said the electoral process vis-a-vis the function of the PEC should be more transparent and accountable. "Anyone who exercises public power in S'pore should be subject to some mechanism of accountability." Prof Thio noted the criteria for "integrity, good character and reputation" is subjective.. that when the PEC decides a candidate is of poor character, allow the candidates a right of reply (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 00:36:07 GMTMr Shanmugam was asked whether it was correct for the Govt to endorse candidates, thereby implicitly backing him. "I think we are entitled to express our views on candidates within certain bounds of good sense and reason and convention. I'm not quite sure that amounts to active endorsement. PM can say what he likes about any particular candidate, or for that matter, ministers. Why would you say we should not express a view?" (SGEP Editor: Why a photo of Prof Koh speaking? - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 00:20:11 GMT80 years ago, a banking collapse devastated Europe, triggering war. Today, faith in the free markets is faltering again (Dominic Sandbrook - dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 06 Aug 2011 00:07:28 GMT[High price to pay to drive in S'pore] Young car-crazy S'poreans complain of being deprived of the chance to buy and own a vehicle, with the price of a certificate to own a car costing more than RM120,000 (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 23:44:57 GMT[Oath of allegiance rule makes S'porean feel like an outsider] My twin daughters were born outside Singapore. When it was time to collect their citizenship certificates, they would have to attend a ceremony.. same procedure that children of non-Singaporean parents have to go through.. why must my children be treated like foreigners?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 23:34:42 GMT[NTUC suggests ideas for "Singaporeans First" employment strategy - CNA] Wasn't the term 'Singaporeans First' first coined by SDP? -joshchttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 23:26:09 GMT[Recession Looms ...] About a year ago, I wrote about the dire warnings of economist Peter Warburton.. that printing money will be a last resort to avoid a quick collapse of the financial system.. that it can only postpone the inevitable by kicking the can further down the road.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 23:06:14 GMTIn yet another round of proposed fare increases, let us consider if we ourselves would work for these companies if what they earn cannot raise the standard of living of their employees, while other Singaporeans generally enjoy higher wages year after year (Wong Hin Wai - ST Forum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 23:03:51 GMT[SBS and SMRT more profitable than SIA] Percentage of their Profit After Tax against Revenue for the last 5 years are as follow.. SMRT is enjoying an extremely good profit, not expected for a public service type of business. Although SBS is having much lower profit, it is still a very healthy company. Many companies are operating at sub 5% profit. SMRT is 8.3 times more profitable than SIA, while SBS is 3.3 times..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 22:57:10 GMTIf we teach our children to respect the elderly and have campaigns to celebrate active ageing, let us not contradict ourselves. The pay cut is not just about adhering to a guideline. It is about undermining the dignity, morale and confidence of older teachers, and sending a wrong message to younger teachers and S'poreans (Sunny Chong - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 22:47:43 GMTThis tropical city-state of 5 million people stands out as a model of low taxes, economic freedom and private property rights. The reality is quite different, for beyond the posted official tax rates lies a much less visible array of what economists call implicit taxes. Add the obvious taxes to the implicit ones and you get a high tax society, especially for affluent wage-earners with no capital income (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 22:19:46 GMT[SGEP Editor: a special report by BBC]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 22:11:15 GMTYoung, dual-income adults with seemingly high disposable income but no assets -- not uncommon in today's society. Most couples tend to end up in the above situation due to a false sense of high, sizeable disposable intake and generally poor financial planning. If couples find themselves in this rut, here are a few helpful tips on how they can improve their situation (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 22:04:12 GMT[A new blog about Joo Chiat] I have put up a new blog relating to Joo Chiat. Do check it out at.. Recent articles include a meeting with Philip Chew, great grandson of Chew Joo Chiat, the philanthropist whom the place was named after.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 21:55:13 GMT[MEDIA RELEASE] Aljunied-Hougang Town Council - Media Statement on Appointment of Managing Agent - Sylvia Lim, Chairman, AHTC, 5 Aug 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 16:13:16 GMT[Increase in Public Transport Fares] Reply to Shin Min paper.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 15:02:31 GMT[Comments on my open letter to Mr Tan Jee Say] Comment by Dr Wong Wee Nam .. Comment by Anonymous (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 15:00:02 GMTRowan Atkinson escapes with a broken shoulder as 240mph supercar smashes into tree and bursts into flames (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 14:56:11 GMTTan Kin Lian says he'll heed all constitutional requirements if elected.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 14:46:57 GMT[Tan Kin Lian will make a GREAT President] Check out his smile and handshake !http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 14:12:50 GMT[The Voice of the People and the Constitution] Response to Minister Shanmugan's comments at IPS seminar.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 14:07:55 GMTLeong Sze Hian, a prominent S'porean blogger and contributor to TOC, gave a talk at a gathering of Tan Kin Lian's supporters.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 14:05:10 GMTA leopard never changes its spots...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 13:58:15 GMT[Guard at 100 Namly Ave] .. which MIWs live here?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 13:55:38 GMT[Dr Tony Tan as activist President] Conservative voters might fear an activist President. Most people would cite Mr Tan Kin Lian as an example of a likely activist President if he won the race. But what about Dr Tony Tan? Yahoo News SG reported today that Dr Tony Tan had said the following.. (Moral of the story: You are only an activist if you disagree with govt policies, but not if you advocate them long before they're officially made public)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 13:52:46 GMTProf Koh: The EP has 5 main constitutional roles..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 13:47:41 GMT[Elections do not change president's powers - StraitsTimes] Law Minister K Shanmugam makes it sound as though the Elected President has less freedom of speech than the average Singaporean. Hmm...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 13:43:50 GMTSpeaking before 300 union leaders, Lim said that doing so would encourage more S'poreans who hold professional, managerial and executive jobs to be more accepting of the influx of foreigners into the country (lots of Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 13:39:35 GMT[Road Safety along Hougang Ave 7] Dear Hougang Residents: Please refer below, regarding LTA's reply to our request for enhanced road safety measures along Hougang Avenue 7.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 13:30:34 GMTLast week at EDB's 50th anniversary dinner, investors asked PM Lee if S'pore will change direction after the recent GE. No, he assured them, PAP's policies will not change. Contrast this to his election speech at PAP's lunchtime rally at the UOB Plaza on 3 May 11.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 06:19:14 GMT[1 per cent bus, fare hike triggers huge debate online] Amazing reaction to the bus, train fare increase. We've read all your comments and turned them into a story. We couldn't include all :) but the the best ones made it in..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 06:13:07 GMTRehired teachers upset over 30 per cent pay cut [380 Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 06:10:22 GMTWith almost 7 months atop a crane, a 51-year-old woman trade unionist is staging a solo protest to end layoffs at a shipyard in South Korea (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 06:06:48 GMTEvery company has rumors about how they earned their name. Here's the real story behind the names of 50 companies that you've probably heard of (bussfeed)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 06:02:43 GMTSince the outing of a certain heir's CV, talk has touched on why some need two, or more, scholarships. Somehow, a bursary fails to carry the same weight in padding a resume, even if it was similarly earned through academic, artistic or athletic excellence. For some, the money seem to factor most.. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 03:06:29 GMT[MUST SEE Youtube of Dr Tan Cheng Bock's UNHAPPY and UNFAIR NS experience] In making this Youtube, Dr Tan Cheng Bock is indicating clearly that he will not shy away from discussing such "sensitive" topics during the Presidential campaign. It is courage in the purest form that Dr Tan Cheng Bock is prepared to speak before his COE to run has been issued.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 02:53:04 GMT[Happiness, S'pore style] Some say S'poreans are a glum lot - but that's because statisticians only look at numbers. Last week, I arrived at Suntec.. Fast-food outlet (McDonald's) at 7.20am - all of life is here, beauty is here, caring is here, family is here, tenderness is here. Nothing more is needed and I am at peace and content. This is happiness - S'pore style.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 02:48:27 GMTI refer to Mr Chan's letter "Let's fly the S'pore flag". As a foreigner in this country, I am appalled that a S'porean blatantly blames the influx of foreigners as a reason for the erosion of S'poreans' love for their country. I would like to remind Mr Chan what the S'pore national flag represents.. Lastly, as a foreigner, I respect S'pore and applaud the Govt for building such a great nation (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 02:37:51 GMTFares for buses and trains to go up.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 02:29:35 GMTI Don't Care for National Day (Source: Insane Polygons)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 02:27:34 GMTThis giant billboard dwarfing the surrounding buildings in Geylang Serai stopped me dead in my tracks. PAP MPs seem to find this form of PR marketing, or whatever you term it, as essential. "What's there to celebrate," a retiree fumed. "We are 2nd-class citizens in our own country!" (RogerPoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 02:20:39 GMT[Early birthday wish for S'pore] Amid the celebration and festivities, we look forward to commemorating the occasion with cautious optimism. The road ahead is rocky and full of uncertainty.. so let us march forward beside our leaders and walk down the path of peace and prosperity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 02:11:00 GMT[New workers' dormitories being built as PAP continues to welcome more 'foreign talent'] Before Elections, Lee Hsien Loong: "I'm sorry". After Elections, Lee Hsien Loong: "We need to remain connected to the world to survive. For this reason, Singapore will continue to be an international hub open to global investments and talent."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 01:45:15 GMTPM Lee will deliver this year's NDR speech on Aug 14 from 6.45pm. DPM Teo and REACH chairman Amy Khor will hold a public forum on the NDR next Tuesday. The forum will be shown "live" on the REACH NDR microsite (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 01:41:28 GMTNearly every male S'poreans has gone through NS and knew how the system should work. Never try to bluff a NS man about NS. They can get very angry. They have given the best part of their lives to it. Whatever, once the election campaigns start, many of the concerns raised in the internet may spill over to the main media. It is not going to look good (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 01:06:09 GMT[Open letter to Mr Tan Jee Say: any views regarding the 5 activists?] I am seeking your views on the conviction of the 5 SDP members and activists for participating in a peaceful activity to spread their political message (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 00:10:12 GMTThose who argue that the EP has no constitutional power to be such a voice have lowered their own expectations of the Presidency. While this role of being a voice of the people is not stated in the Constitution, it is not excluded either. Whether or not the President will go wrong whilst speaking up, he should be judged on his performance, and it is important to elect a person with the right values (Letter from Yak Chin Hua - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 05 Aug 2011 00:05:31 GMTWho says so? Well that is how I must read the ST Forum response from Mindef this morning. All these nonsense is just creating a vacuum for more investigative journalism. Some say S'pore is drifting into the Politics of Apology. I think there is growing evidence of that trend.. They must take a leaf from Show Mao, learn to use their heads, their hearts and have COURAGE (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 23:57:09 GMTMr Lim noted that NTUC is attaching "tremendous importance" to this PE because "the world of the future is going to be a lot more challenging one" due to stiff external competition and certain domestic issues, such as a widening income gap and an ageing population.The next EP must thus be able to strengthen the Republic's standing internationally as well as unite S'poreans to "give us the best hope of continuing to succeed in this new world." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 23:46:19 GMTTony Tan reluctant to shake average S'porean's hand, do you still want to vote him as President?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 23:38:33 GMTThe calm and smooth manner in which Dr Tony Tan spoke about a variety of topics is testament to the decades of experience he has had in no less than 5 different ministries. It was surprising, then, that a question posed by the media left Dr Tan slightly ruffled: What exactly is it in your role as President that you cannot do in your role at GIC ? (Owen Tan - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 23:33:23 GMTDr Tony Tan .. he is "getting worried day by day", said: "How can I just stand aside and be comfortable in my own sphere when all these problems will affect S'pore, when I know that I have the experience, knowledge, which could help the Govt overcome all these problems? And I know them very well, all the ministers ... Maybe they will listen to me." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 22:38:16 GMTThe chatter now is about presidential hopeful Tony Tan and his son's NS stint.. But what we see mostly are anonymous allegations that achieve nothing but chip away at fault lines in society and cause collateral damage to a system which, despite shortcomings, has kept S'pore safe (David Boey was formerly ST defence correspondent - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 22:27:39 GMT[Mindef: Disruption for medical course applied uniformly] We refer to Ms Lim Guay Cheng's letter: 'Mindef should spell out NS deferment criteria' (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 22:18:48 GMT[The President and economic uncertainties] .. QUESTION FROM BUSINESS TIMES .. REPLY BY TAN KIN LIAN.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 15:54:27 GMT[Denouncement Notice] "Don't vote for this guy. Let him end up with the lowest possible votes ever. Thank you!"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 15:52:02 GMT[Old newspaper articles linked to Tony Tan and son disappearing from NLB's NewspaperSG archives] "NLB has since clarified on the NewspaperSG website that it's just a technical error, and access to vanished issues will be restored ." Another coincidence?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 15:45:35 GMTDr Tan was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a book launch and networking session organised by S'pore Indian CCI on Thursday afternoon. On Wednesday, Dr Tan also addressed a small group of 30 entrepreneurs and investors in a closed-door discussion organised by online publisher SGEntrepreneurs (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 15:41:58 GMT[The riddle of GIC's performance and CPF funds] This might also explain why the S'pore govt seems intent on forever making it harder and harder for depositors to withdraw their CPF savings through the introduction of innovative policies such as CPF Life, and Minimum Sum.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 15:35:51 GMTNational Slavery - New Citizen scheme...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 15:30:33 GMT[Tony Tan and son lose the plot] No one has alleged that his son did not do NS, skipped IPPT, or was not paid NS allowance but a regular salary etc. Why the father and son keeping addressing these things suggest attempt to obfuscate the real issue or an attempt to side step the issue or redirect the debate, without addressing the concerns raised.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 05:29:14 GMTHere is the team [photo] behind Mr Tan's campaign!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 04:13:44 GMT[Was Dr Tony Tan's son disrupted BEFORE he was given the President Scholarship?] An email has surfaced with regard to Dr Patrick Tan's disruption..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 03:42:08 GMT"How can we be expected to reasonably know that a permit was needed for the activity when the police had stated that the same activity conducted earlier was permissible?" asked Dr Chee Soon Juan. Justice Quentin Loh seemed confused as well.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 03:39:38 GMTEmail Interview with Jobless Indian [Singaporean] PMET with masters degree.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 03:32:18 GMT[Egypt and Singapore] Four guys named Tan (Broadcast times shown are GMT. Pls add 8 hours to arrive at S'pore times)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 01:40:09 GMTWARNING! This post is expletive expansive, and an exercise in prolific practice of the "f" word. NTU valedictorian Trinetta Chong, rapped for the effusive exuberance of her youthful years, ain't seen nothin' yet (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 01:20:18 GMTFor a change, a happy worker.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 01:18:05 GMTThe job of the PEC should be quite easy actually, if it is just the interpretation of the Act. Unfortunately, there are other political considerations and complications that will affect their final edict. The PEC and its 3 wise men have a very vital role to play to set the tone for the election of a President that is not tainted with political undertones (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 04 Aug 2011 01:06:11 GMT[Some questions on Dr Patrick Tan's NS stint] Warning: This will be a long post. It's hard to keep it short when there are so many questions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 23:53:36 GMTThe president is elected specifically to perform his constitutional role, which is largely custodial. So I am concerned that Tan Kin Lian has now gone on to champion day-to-day issues such as public transport, terms of employment and housing ["How I shall be the people's voice: Kin Lian"]. Party politics has also become an issue now (Stephen Chia - ST Forum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 23:48:34 GMTPolitical commentators felt that 9 days are adequate for the PE campaign. IPS senior research fellow Gillian Koh: "The rules are clear on this. They've had the full liberty to speak to people and create their own audiences all this while and, in fact, the first mover started building his profile in March and declared his interest in the post soon after the GE." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 23:43:19 GMTCabbies and passengers can turn to the police for mediation if there is a dispute over the route taken or destination. If mediation is unsuccessful, the taxi driver can file a report with the police and may also lodge a magistrate's complaint (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 23:30:12 GMTI fully understand why cabbies find it a hassle to report fare cheats ["Taxi fare cheats on the rise"]. What is the use of changing the law to ensure fare cheats face a harsher penalty, when enforcement is so weak? The cabby has to go through the hassle of filing a police report, forwarding the report to his company and filing a complaint with the magistrate - just to claim the unpaid fare (Tee Poh Chuan - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 23:27:50 GMTLTA's primary tools to ensure smooth traffic are ERP, to deter usage at specific times, and COE, to limit the number of vehicles bought. These measures have outlived their relevance.. There are half a dozen ways to ensure smoother traffic flow, and these include.. (Richard Goh - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 23:17:57 GMTWriting on his FB page, Minister Lui Tuck Yew said the review will focus on improving bus capacity, congestion levels, frequency and reliability. "The goal is clear - reduce waiting time, increase the predictability of bus journey times, improve our chances of getting onboard, and provide better info to commuters (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 22:33:05 GMTIT IS not surprising the recent application to increase fares has raised ire of some commuters. Consumers do not welcome price increases for goods or services for which an alternative is out of their reach. It is surprising, therefore, that households have generally accepted the electricity tariff without much fuss. This may be due to most of them believing, somewhat mistakenly, that the tariff... (Letter from David Boey - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 22:27:02 GMT[Changes in electricity tariff primarily driven by fuel cost movements] In the letter "What about non-fuel cost?", Mr David Boey commented that average non-fuel generating cost for first 9 months of this year has increased compared to same period last year (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 22:24:26 GMTPay rationale for rehired retired teachers (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 22:19:20 GMT[Unfair to have one rule for landed homes, another for resale flats] The gist of the opposing views is that current rules disallowing foreigners from buying landed properties give citizens a better chance of buying them. By the same token, disallowing PRs from buying HDB resale flats would surely have a similar effect on those who cannot afford a home now (Denis Distant - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 22:15:54 GMT[Open private housing market to competition] Regulate public housing to ensure that S'poreans are not marginalised and penalised, but let the private property market, especially landed housing, find its own equilibrium (Frankie Mao - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 22:12:22 GMTCedaw, a United Nations committee on women's rights, expressed concern at the persistence of domestic and sexual violence against women here - which it says remains "under-reported". The UN committee was also concerned that women here continue to be under-represented in decision-making in Govt and other sectors (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 21:55:59 GMTI refer to the letter "Let's fly the S'pore flag".. Patriotism is a complex issue; linking the display of a flag to one's patriotism is simplistic, to say the least. I am a true-blue, born-and-bred S'porean who is proud to live and work here. However, I choose not to display our flag for personal reasons too complicated to share (Letter from Danny G Tan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 21:44:27 GMT38 large photos (BostonGlobe)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 21:35:23 GMTWe have decided to ban and remove all comments made by an annonymous netizen...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 16:21:32 GMT[Statement by Tan Kin Lian - issue of Writ of Election] I look forward to receiving the result of my application for the Certificate of Eligibility to contest the Presidential Election. I am confident I meet the stipulated criteria... If elected, I will act independently of the Govt in carrying out the duties of the President in accordance with the constitution, and in the best interest of the people.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 15:48:03 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock's app featured in Straits Times today.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 15:43:01 GMTThe 2011 PE would result in a more accurate reflection of political support for PAP than GE2011. There are factors affecting voters' decision during the GE, factors placing PAP into an advantageous position, which disappear during the Presidential contest (Faisal Wali - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 15:39:59 GMTMARUAH has put together a public forum.. they intend to highlight and discuss the PE and the mandate it confers on the EP, so that Singaporeans can make informed choices. Their speakers for the forum are Kevin YL Tan and Alex Au. More info on this forum, and how you may register, is HERE.. (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 15:23:01 GMTNew guidelines on Presidential Election [Reader's Comment: Tell your Ah Ma and Ah Gong do not mark for this White Hair Man...]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 15:15:27 GMTA group of countries and international NGOs is launching the Open Government Partnership.. Based on criteria, 79 countries are said to qualify already for membership. S'pore is not yet on the list. The 4 criteria are.. (journalism.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 15:10:33 GMTIn expressing your personal views, you may have prejudiced the process by which NTUC goes about deciding its preferred presidential candidate. In the interest of good governance, you may wish to now detach yourself from such a process. With respect, a unionist does not need to support a person, who cut his links with NTUC more than a decade ago (Dharmendra Yadav)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 13:44:14 GMT[NTUC says Tony Tan "fits the bill"] Look at how smart and cunning the PAP leadership is. They use the President of NTUC to speak out regarding this issue. By right, the president of the NTUC does not have much power and authority. All these are vested with the Sec-Gen. But the SG is a PAP minister...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 13:37:26 GMTWhy Tony Tan, who didn't want PM post earlier, wants to become the President now.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 13:33:55 GMTNTUC not backing any presidential candidates yet [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 13:29:53 GMT[Presidential election fixed on 27 August, if there is a contest] Speculation is rife in cyberspace that a contest may not take place..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 13:26:00 GMTPresidential hopefuls call for dignified campaign.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 13:11:38 GMTThe fact that Princes William and Harry, who are respectively 3rd and 4th in line to the British throne, are serving in front-line combat roles alongside ordinary men and women, is a testament to their courage and their commitment to their country. Both were born in the lap of luxury and had very privileged upbringings, but this did not deter them from answering the call of duty even though they did not have to (Philip Tan - TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 12:25:10 GMTNational Slavery - White Horse Scheme...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 12:21:00 GMTMore questions for Dr Patrick Tan..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 12:19:18 GMTThe govt feedback body REACH has launched a one-stop microsite for S'poreans to get "relevant" info on the upcoming PE. The site will also allow S'poreans to share their views through a discussion forum (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 12:00:38 GMT[Open letter to PM Lee: Statesman or Politician - your choice] Dear PM Lee: You have arrived at a crucial point in your career, and at an important crossroad in the future and history of S'pore. The choice you have to wisely make is: to be a great statesman, or a politician.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 11:55:49 GMT[Neighborhood economy] I was walking about the neighborhood when I came to Jasni's barber shop in the constituency. I walked in and young Izan gave me a much needed haircut for S$9 (Shane Ho: What a privilege! The barber should have to pay you to earn this opportunity to dress your hair! LOL .. Chan CL: You walk your talk. Super !! That is the hallmark of a leader, action with words. Character, competency and consistency in action)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 11:41:46 GMTThe article says Patrick Tan was "already" in Harvard studying even before he was awarded President's Scholar.. Other newspaper articles say President Scholarship for males is awarded and judged partly on the individual's performance in their NS, so the big question of course is.. (Furry Brown Dog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 10:47:09 GMT[How is it that Thailand took just 1 month to open parliament?] S'pore (govt) keeps bragging about being number 1 in everything. But guess what, PAP will take more than 5 months.. When it comes to discussions of matters that concern the people of S'pore, our govt prefers to do this behind our backs!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 10:38:44 GMT[Netizen complained about Tin Pei Ling deleting comments on her FB] "As a mark of respect and courtesy to friends and users of this page, comments that are offensive and discriminatory, irrelevant, defamatory, seditious or otherwise contrary to the law may be removed. Users who seriously and/or repeatedly violate the principles may be removed as well."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 10:31:09 GMTDr Tambyah is a leading expert in infectious diseases and teaches at a major university hospital here in S'pore. His speech at the dinner is entitled "Speaking up for the SDP and staying on a public sector job". During his election rally speech, Dr Tambyah talked about the high healthcare costs in S'pore. He said.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 10:25:47 GMTIn his submissions, Dr Chee Soon Juan said the group did not think a permit was needed, as a similar activity had been held on 1 May 2008.. police officers were at the scene and later made a statement concluding there had not been an unlawful assembly.. therefore, it was reasonable for SDP to assume the event did not require a permit either (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 10:08:28 GMTPM Lee issued the writ of election on Wednesday afternoon, and named Aug 17 as Nomination Day. Going by past precedent, the committee will issue the certificate of eligibility to those it deems eligible on the day before Nomination Day (ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 09:34:13 GMT[Dr Tony Tan's son is NOT a licensed doctor] Is it normal for SAF to assign a 3rd Sergeant who is not licensed as a doctor, and who has unrecognized medical qualifications, to lead a sensitive medical military research project?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 02:33:35 GMTWhatever mistakes PM Lee was referring to at Boat Quay in May ("Well, we're sorry we didn't get it exactly right, but I hope you'll understand and bear with us"), the occasion of EDB's 50th anniversary dinner would have been a good platform to flesh out his real intent.. So much for his oratory about distancing from his father's "spurs are not stuck into the hide" attitude. The apple indeed does not fall far from the tree (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 02:29:12 GMTCountdown to NDP 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 02:22:33 GMTJBJ, Tang Liang Hong, CSJ, James Gomez are familiar names in the local political scene. All were victims in the game of Predators and Preys. This game seemed to have taken a different character during the last GE. On the wrong side were Tin Pei Ling, Foo Mei Har and Puthuchery. Tony Tan became the newest prey in the game (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 01:40:33 GMTDear SDP: My name is Stanley Tow. I live in Toronto, Canada. I was born in S'pore in 1966, and I still hold my S'pore NRIC. Our laws implied that to have turned 16 while in another country and making the adult decision to remain in another country was tantamount to committing a crime against S'pore..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 01:31:24 GMT[Old newspaper articles disappearing from NLB's NewspaperSG archives] Ok, this is getting spooky. I realised recently that a bunch of old ST articles which I linked to earlier have been disappearing from NewspaperSG, a searchable online S'pore newspaper archive maintained by NLB. Let me illustrate exactly what I mean...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 00:47:37 GMTNational Service Deferment...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 00:42:04 GMTIs Dr Patrick Tan making misleading claims about his NS stint? (Reader's Comment: "Wow... this author certainly knows these contents extremely well. Detailed, very analytical, and assessment backed up. Honestly, what you've digged out is just the tip of the iceberg..")http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 00:35:37 GMTNTUC president John De Payva said: "We want a person who has got that kind of stature, that kind of exposure and understanding of the fundamental roles of the President ... Personally I am very comfortable with Dr Tan, because of his stature, his years of experience in politics - internationally and locally (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 00:24:30 GMT[Evidence of PAP stuck in 1960s] While the idea (first recommended by Dutch economist Albert Winsemius in 1960) has it's merits and was very instrumental in the S'pore economic growth story, over reliance on this strategy will have it's drawbacks. In today's fast paced world... more wealth can be created by fostering a culture of innovation than by blindly attracting capital investment flows.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 00:19:09 GMTWhen asked recently why central banks hold gold rather than, for instance, diamonds, FED chairman Ben Bernanke said "tradition". Given the long history of humans considering gold valuable, does it make sense to continue this tradition, or should central banks focus on other assets with more intrinsic value? Three experts share their views (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 03 Aug 2011 00:06:34 GMTGold hit a high of US$1,661.14 an ounce in early trade in Asia, having surged over 2.5 per cent yesterday in its biggest one-day percentage rise since Nov 5 (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 23:59:50 GMT[Nationalising public transport can be profitable] MR TOH Cheng Seong ('Offer an alternative better than nationalisation') disagreed with Mr Gerald Giam's commentary ('Consider the economic reality of transport here'), which argued for the nationalisation of public transport.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 23:53:48 GMT[Offer an alternative better than nationalisation] MR GERALD Giam calls the Govt dogmatic for sticking to privatisation and profit ['Consider the economic reality of transport here']. Yet he and the Workers' Party are doggedly pursuing their transport nationalisation plan without offering the very economic algorithm he blames the Govt for ignoring (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 23:53:06 GMT[More competition in public transport won't work] NSP's proposal for greater competition in public transport ["NSP rebuts criticism on bus competition"]; ["NSP calls for more competition in sector"] is likely to discourage greater integration within S'pore's public transport system.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 23:42:29 GMT[S'pore ahead in the losing game?] On the call for greater transparency regarding the number of S'poreans entering the casinos, CRA had agreed that the legality of the info - and how it is shared - could be looked into more carefully. I find it strange the Casino Control Act can be crafted such that statistics on how many S'poreans are entering the 2 casinos may not be revealed. I have read the Act and am unable to find such a prohibition (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 22:38:49 GMTWe refer to Mr Effandi Abdul Mutalib's letter "Not all moneylenders come across as legitimate" (Alice Tan, Assistant Registrar - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 22:27:16 GMTMP Yaw Shin Leong felt it "is timely for the Govt" to re-visit the issue of HDB running EM Services - a joint venture between HDB and Keppel Land. HDB clarified it does not run a commercial arm with the aim of renting out HDB flats for profit.. it incorporated EM Services in 1988 to provide managing agency services to Town Councils.. it engaged EM Services in 2009 to run a pilot project to provide interim rental housing at below market rates to help needy families (sammyboy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 22:22:51 GMT[Battling over the moral meaning of gender equality] Alex Au reviews the book "The AWARE Saga - Civil Society and Public Morality in Singapore".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 21:52:54 GMT[The Voice of the People] I know that almost every aspiring candidate is claiming to be Independent of the govt. The people of S'pore are now much better educated and discerning. They can see whose truly independent, and who simply cannot be!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 16:58:36 GMT[Public announcement for Wednesday, 3rd Aug] I will be submitting my application form to the Elections Department on Wednesday, 3rd August, at 12noon.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 16:52:42 GMT[I went to an elite primary school. It wasn't like Captain America] Dear parents, you don't have to stress so hard about getting your kid into an "elite" school. Your kid is not going to become a superhero just by going to NYPS. Not even close. At the end of the day, that's still something between you and your kid.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 16:49:02 GMTIn the coming Presidential Election, pictures of the candidates will be printed on the ballot paper next to their names to facilitate voters, said the Elections Department (ELD). [ST Online]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 16:46:16 GMTThe government has gazetted several rules and regulations ahead of the Presidential Election which has to take place by the end of this month. [TODAY]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 16:43:10 GMT[Tony Tan and MINDEF remain SILENT on TRE's questions] We repost the following 5 questions for the benefit of Dr Tony Tan and MINDEF..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 15:30:37 GMTWhen it comes to choosing a President, there must not even be a hint of irregularity in the candidate. Alas, it looks like Tony Tan has failed the test. Remember the circumstances that caused Devan Nair to fall from grace? I don't expect Tony Tan to be on the same path, but he might take a different road to the same end (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 15:04:06 GMT[Increasing importance of social media in education] One notable example comes from S'pore where Professor Michael Netzely, an expatriated American, teaches at the SMU.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 14:51:22 GMT"TRE has been accused of being anti-PAP and taking sides. On that, we would like to improve and try to balance the articles on our site to cater to readers from all camps," acting MD Amanda Tan noted, pointing out that TRE seeks to be "by S'poreans for S'poreans". She added that the site has always welcomed contributions from anyone but "we don't get many from those supporting the ruling party" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 14:43:38 GMT[NTUC says no decision yet to back any presidential candidate] On Tuesday, 500 union representatives held a closed door dialogue with presidential hopeful and former DPM Tony Tan, who was never part of the union. John De Payva, President, NTUC, said: "We want a person who has got that kind of stature and that kind of exposure, who understands the fundamental role of the president."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 13:56:49 GMTThe question really is: If Dr Patrick Tan was not the son of Dr Tony Tan, would he have been allowed... And would he have also been allowed... (The Satay Club)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 07:37:10 GMT[46 Years of NS Sacrifices Scuttled by a 12-Year NS Disruption] Fews years back, Melvyn Tan the Singapore born pianist, now a British Citizen, was fined $5,000 and caused a hugh uproar when he came back to pay his dues. Melvyn had left S'pore when he was very young. While Melvyn caused a hugh uproar among S'poreans, Dr Tony Tan's son Patrick had 12 years disruption, and came back to Mindef to study soil disease.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 04:36:14 GMTIt is said the deepest foundation on which morality is built is the phenomenon of empathy. A lack of empathy is manifested by a poor sense of communication that fails to understand the perspective of the audience. The phony Tans, father and son, have a lot to learn (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 02:11:51 GMTPAP supporters are quick to remind us that we should distinguish between the country and the ruling party. They have a point here. But the trouble is that the ruling party controls almost everything in S'pore, so the two are indistinguishable (RogerPoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 02:03:31 GMTNational Day or International Day...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 01:02:56 GMTI really do not like it when public servants perched in their lofty crystal towers preach of values they don't seem to have. A public servant whose mandate is to protect the job market in S'pore, and therefore the employer, hardly has the will to work in the interests of workers. It is an inherent trait in this role that such a public servant cannot be objective, let alone preach to others about being objective (Dharmendra Yadav)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 00:46:13 GMTMs Stephanie Chok's letter "Punish criminal acts but deter errant bosses, too" contains several inaccuracies. NGOs who listen to only one side and simply assume that the employer is wrong in every instance do themselves a disservice. We urge NGOs to assess each case objectively and comprehensively, rather than rushing to assign blame (Letter from Farah Abdul Rahim, MOM - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 00:37:50 GMTThe story of the father and son is getting interesting. No, not the Lees but the Tans. Presidential Wannabe Tony Tan and his son Patrick are deeply disappointed with a 'rumor'. Now, every mother's son [except white horses] who did and do NS is even more disappointed (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:38 GMT[Mindef should spell out NS deferment criteria] .. many other talented S'poreans who were not allowed to defer their NS.. have qualified for prestigious schools or have trained hard enough to don national colours for competitions. Mindef's stock reply is that NSmen are granted deferment only in rare and exceptional cases. After reading Dr Patrick Tan's, I cannot help but ask..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 23:54:06 GMT[Was The Loke Cheng Kim Scholarship Committee Aware Of Patrick Tan's President's Scholarship Award?] Among the conditions stipulated for the award of its scholarships is that a recipient should not be a recipient also of other scholarship awards or grants. It is also up for speculation why his application to train as a 'Medical Scientist' was acceded to by Mindef.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 23:45:55 GMT'I thank Dr Tan Cheng Bock, who stated that he will not publicly engage the Govt on day-to-day politics. An EP should be very clear about his constitutional duties, which are largely custodial. Being elected by S'poreans does not give a president more right, power or even moral authority to exceed his constitutional purview.'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 23:27:02 GMT[How I shall be the people's voice: Kin Lian] Mr Daniel Chia stated that presidential aspirants should stick strictly to the roles of the EP as laid down in the Constitution ('Accept EP's role, or don't stand). He seemed to suggest that the EP does not have the discretion to carry out his duties in an appropriate manner to serve the voters who elected him.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 22:39:43 GMT[NTU Valedictorian Trinetta Chong's Speech and the F-Word] When I was attending my convocation, back in the 90's, I didn't even want to be there. The whole thing seemed like such a drag, and it was. So when I heard about the controversy.. It's quite ironical to me, how times have changed, and the whole situation makes me feel so ancient.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 22:35:01 GMT['Unnecessary and uncalled for' - MR BENNIE CHEOK] .. ['She may find the real world less forgiving' - MR STEVE NGO] ST Forumhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 22:28:32 GMT['Take-and-go' approach is netizens' top issue with FTs] Netizens' biggest beef with foreign talent in S'pore is that the latter "take and they go", a Yahoo! S'pore poll shows (lots of Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 22:24:54 GMT[Cherries & Lemons] ... here's another open statement which completely baffles my understanding. It's from Hazel Poa this time, regarding NSP's transport privatisation campaign. I think something is quite wrong with our scholars. None of them seem to be able to write or argue a case properly.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 22:00:25 GMTSingapore's Public Transportation: Dangers Of Overcrowding And The Need For Heightened Customer Orientation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 21:55:13 GMT[From Parliament] OPENING OF THE 1ST SESSION OF THE 12TH PARLIAMENT.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 21:46:15 GMT[Swearing in of MPs on 10 Oct 2011] This is the usual PAP style. GE was held on 7 May 2011. It takes more than 5 months for parliament to be convened.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 21:41:18 GMT[The Singaporean Salt] .. we S'poreans are too insecure to be able to realise and appreciate what's sublime. Always waiting for other 'more progressive' cultures to point it out to us. When will we ever grow up? Time is running out. Soon, there will not be 'Singaporean' as we know it.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 21:29:55 GMTThose who argued that the Elected President (EP) has no consitutional power, to be the "Voice of the People", have actually lowered their own expectations of the EP. It is easier to keep quiet (silent diplomacy) than to speak up. [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 16:18:46 GMTTR Facebook Poll: 98 percent not convinced by Dr Tony Tan's and MINDEF's "clarification".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 12:19:26 GMTPE 2011 fact-checking website commits false equivalence fallacy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 12:14:44 GMTBe sceptical if you like, but keen observers of the Malaysian political scene have remarked to me that Malaysia is much more democratic than Singapore which remains as repressive as ever (RogerPoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 12:12:48 GMT[ST Sponsored Stories Not News] I request that these stories in praise of The Straits Times, by The Straits Times, be treated and labelled as "advertorials", which is the case for other sponsored content in your stable of publications.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 12:10:11 GMTFrom concrete floor to celebrity police escort in five-and-a-half weeks - by [VIP] Alan Shadrakehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 08:01:28 GMTWill Dr Tony Tan withdraw from the Presidential Elections?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 07:57:25 GMT[Selamat Berpuasa] Saya ingin mengucapkan Selamat Berpuasa kepada semua kaum Muslimin. Semoga bulan Ramadhan mendatangkan kesejahteraan dan rahmah kepada semua.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 03:48:24 GMTTony Tan given yet another opportunity in a public function? I am tired that there is no level playing field.You will definitely be a PAP stooge after I heard what you said over radio a while ago at this event. You sounded exactly like a PAP minister (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 03:20:13 GMTTan Kin Lian speaks at Supporters' Gatheringhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 01:49:09 GMTWhy vote for a President to protect a reserve that we do not know? The people should be voting for a President or govt to protect their life savings in their CPF, to be returned to them when they need it, to be returned to them when they are alive, and not when they are dead (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 01:17:21 GMT[Candidates moving towards my platform] I read the speech by Dr Tony Tan (reported in TODAY) and the letter by Dr Tan Cheng Bock (in ST Forum). They are moving towards my platform -- to be the voice of the people, and to raise these issues with the Govt. It took them some time to come around..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 01 Aug 2011 01:04:22 GMT.. "even though the President is not - and should not be - a separate power centre, he or she can address the concerns of S'poreans, take them into account when called upon to exercise his or her powers, and raise them formally or informally through appropriate channels. The choice of channels to pursue, in private or in public, depends on the individual situation. An effective President must not only have a heart for S'poreans, but also the knowledge and experience to navigate local and international politics." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 23:27:01 GMTI had an enjoyable trip to Batam.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 23:21:56 GMTI have not stated that I will publicly engage the Govt on day-to-day politics, as implied in Mr Daniel Chia's letter. That is the role of MPs, as rightly pointed out by him. This has been my stand. It is wrong of Mr Chia to assume that another candidate's opinion is also mine (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 22:36:47 GMTI read with great interest the apparent divide between Ms Grace Fu's and Mr Tan Kin Lian's thoughts on the issue of gambling. While the Senior MoS is now expressing her concern, the presidential hopeful described his company's Toto and 4D apps as "some distraction from the busy and hectic life" (Letter from Jedidiah Tan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 22:34:06 GMTMs Jessie Loy said consumers need to have more choices of insurance products ['Banks should not act like insurance agents']. Since 2003, with the introduction of Financial Advisers Act, independent financial advisers have been allowed to be established here (Augustine Lee - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 22:29:18 GMT[Too Much of a Good Thing] Much has been made of the great rise of Asia. What is less looked at is the decline of the West, particularly the USA.. the average American is feeling less secure than he or she did a generation ago. The key reason for this is simple - bad money management. Nobody thought it was worth teaching the young that money was something to be conserved.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 22:14:33 GMT[Soul of a Nation: The Corporatist State] Much has been said about the unhealthy level of materialism in S'pore.. also about how the govt has run S'pore more like a corporation rather than a country. S'pore did not begin as a Corporatist State. We evolved into one because as a people, we allowed the ruling PAP complete freedom to turn our nation into a Corporatist State (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 22:00:52 GMT[Tin Pei Ling 'trusts' the police and AGC to reach a 'fair conclusion' on her police case] After 'AWOL' from her FB for more than one month, controversial PAP newbie MP Tin Pei Ling finally emerged from 'hiding' to post a note on her FB urging 'fans' to refrain from posting ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 21:55:37 GMT[Guard at 14 Leedon Park?] I came across some ARMED Poodle Guarding 14 Leedon Park. Why so special? Who is the Master living in This Fortified Bungalow?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 21:51:24 GMT[CNA poll: 87 percent will not fly Singapore flag] Grassroots organizations are so desperate to please their political masters that they even resorted to hiring Bangladeshi workers to hang the S'pore flags along the common corridors and staircases of flats, and in the vicinity of MRT stations and shopping centers so that they won't appear too 'empty'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 15:49:53 GMT"Equity ensures every NSman is treated the same way, regardless of background or status. Also, Mindef recognises that NS involves a sacrifice from all individuals...This is why we must adhere to (this) principle articulated to preserve the integrity and strength of our NS system." - Dr Ng Eng Hen, 2nd Minister of Defence, 13 Feb 2009http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 10:16:46 GMT[Hey We Care! 2nd Mobilization] It was brought to the committee's attention of another home that required some form of cleaning and painting. The team wasted no time. 12 enthusiastic volunteers, including 5 Hougang Women Support Network Volunteers came forward for this mission. It was a 3-room flat. A grim sight and a foul smell greeted us..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 10:12:14 GMT[Lui should think out of the PAP money box] Transport Minister Lui appears to be a PAP hero, fighting WP's nationalized public transport and attacking NSP's opening up bus services to more operators proposals. Whatever and however his fighting spirit is, he cannot run away from the mindset of the PAP and continues to position himself within the money box.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 10:04:55 GMT[Operation Pecah October 1963] At the S'pore Arts Festival Fringe in Feb 2006, Tan Jing Quee and Michael Fernandez publicly spoke about their years in prison without trial. Part of Tan's speech is reproduced below : ".. I was detained in October 1963, less than 2 weeks after the general elections in September.."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 09:58:21 GMT["Back in the 1950s, LKY had organised and participated in public assemblies when he was in the Opposition. He and his PAP colleagues were at the forefront of organising street protests against the British colonialists."] He could protest against the British in the past, but now doesn't allow S'poreans to protest against his regime.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 09:53:12 GMTSingapore is hiring a new president...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 09:28:20 GMT[Accept EP's role, or don't stand] Dear ST: I refer to 30 Jul 2011 letter. Mr Daniel Chia warns Mr Tan Kin Lian not to step out of his boundary and interfere with the govt's operational duties. But why in the 1st place should the boundary of the EP include gagging him? Having a eunuch prez who is gagged and cannot speak out for justice will not help maintain S'pore's image and status globally. It will only bring shame and dishonor..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 31 Jul 2011 09:24:40 GMTTrust between PAP and the people .. Transparency is the 1st step to building trust. What we need today is a truly independent president who will work with the govt on the issue of transparency, bringing along with him to office the mandate of the people, and channelling these requests for information to the govt (SGEP Editor: lots of Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 23:13:02 GMTLiars, liars, pants on fire...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 23:04:03 GMT[TRE's open letter to Dr Tony Tan, Dr Patrick Tan and MINDEF] "Our readers and concerned Netizens have written to us, hoping that we publish their request for answers from the respective depts and persons to the following questions.."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 23:00:39 GMT[Justice for All] Thane Rosenbaum argues that revenge is moral... I must disagree. It's time to reconsider notions of justice and vengeance. The purpose of having a justice system is to protect society, prevent and overcome evil, and reform criminals. It looks like the world can learn something from Norway.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 22:54:14 GMT[The new normal in politics] 22 PAP MPs retired from politics at this year's GE. They reflect on the new political reality and the challenges ahead for the ruling PAP and S'pore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 22:47:45 GMT[Guard at 12 Nim Drive?] Why poodle guard 12 Nim Drive? Who lives there?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 22:38:38 GMTNew York Times columnist: Singapore is a 'polished' police state.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 22:31:04 GMT[... And Those Who Egg Them On] Quite apart from the S'poreans who continually demand the Govt do something for them are the political "observers" who never miss a chance to criticise the Govt for failing to do something for the said S'poreans. To them, it is always the Govt's fault if some struggling artist had to move overseas... Hogwash!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 22:23:52 GMT[Dignity for the old begins with our hearts] 2 weeks ago, I wrote about him. He was in a nursing home in Johor Baru. Today, I saw him again. He finally returned to S'pore. He was in a coffin... I think when a country allows its elderly to die alone in a foreign land, we as a people, as a nation, loses something precious.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 22:15:05 GMT[Inside the beautiful mind of a simple boy] He officially succeeded Dr Su Guaning as president this month. And he has big plans to grow NTU further as a research-intensive university, with sustainability ranking high among the 5 "peaks of excellence" the varsity hopes to achieve according to its 5-year strategic blueprint (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 22:05:04 GMT"We're going to make NTU a tourist attraction". Okay, that explains recent fee hike despite huge surpluses nesting in reserve account. And we thought they were building better libraries or bringing in qualified academics who are more passionate about teaching than spending money (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 22:01:57 GMTThe success of Temasek Review Emeritus - Alex Tan Zhixiang (Alex contested in GE 2011 under the Reform Party's banner, against PM Lee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 21:54:07 GMTDMERI is a division of Defence Science Organization (DSO), a company limited by guarantee incorporated in 1997, and is NOT under MINDEF.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 21:45:41 GMT[EXPOSED: No vocation for NSFs in DMERI] "Dr Patrick Tan's posting as a defence medical scientist was done 'according to vocational guidelines'" - MINDEF.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 21:42:17 GMTDr Tony Tan dismisses 'false rumours' on son [SGEP Editor: lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 11:04:32 GMT["Please remember: We still need 900,000 foreign workers on work permits." - PAP supreme leader Lee Kuan Yew, 24 April 2011, CNA] How many of them will be 'converted' into grateful new citizens to vote for the PAP in the next GE?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 09:36:51 GMT[Kopi with Bedok residents] A larger-than-expected group of about 10 residents joined the discussion.. a very fruitful and enjoyable session. I noted down a lot of feedback which I will study further and raise in Parliament where appropriate. I hope to have many more of such discussions in the future.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 08:34:16 GMT[Important Notice: Road Closure in Eunos due to MRT works] Dear residents of Eunos ward, Aljunied GRC...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 05:33:19 GMT[Lee Kuan Yew flatters Mahathir with mimicry] In his latest outburst, Lee is proving once again, his similarity with his nemesis. It would be a rich story if eventually Lee Kuan Yew does to the Lee Hsien Loong administration what Mahathir did to Abdullah's.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 04:53:59 GMT[Dr Tony Tan's son issues statement which contradicts his own CV] Dr Patrick Tan was granted a disruption to pursue a Bachelor of Arts. Upon graduation, he was granted a 2nd disruption to study an unrelated medical postgraduate degree (MD-PHD) from Stanford. From Dr Patrick Tan's statement, 2 important questions emerge...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 04:22:37 GMT[MINDEF: Dr Patrick Tan's posting done 'according to vocational guidelines'] In a sign that the entire PAP establishment is throwing its weight behind its presidential candidate Dr Tony Tan, MINDEF has released a press statement to defend former PAP defence minister Dr Tony Tan...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 04:14:16 GMT["I also served 10 years of NS by saving kids' lives." - PAP MP from Malaysia Dr Janil Puthucheary who became a 'citizen' only 3 years ago] "Upon his return to S'pore, Dr Patrick Tan completed his NS as a Defence Medical Scientist" - Office of Dr Tony Tan. What's wrong with Dr Patrick Tan serving his NS by doing research then?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 04:08:33 GMTA few readers have written to ST Forum to argue why the candidates should not campaign on a platform to be "the voice of the people". I hope that some of my supporters will write to the Forum to argue why this is a good platform. Let us see if ST is fair in airing this alternative view.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 03:56:57 GMTPresidential hopefuls Tan Kin Lian and Tan Cheng Bock want to be a voice for the people, but the EP is not the office for that ['Tan Kin Lian: President should speak up publicly']. Mr Tan should know this. Parliament is the voice of the people and if Mr Tan wishes to be so, he should stand for the next GE (Daniel Chia - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 03:51:57 GMTIt will not benefit voters or the Govt to have an EP who is at odds with the Govt, but who is constrained by his constitutional duties to voice public concerns. Because of this anomaly, the promise of presidential aspirants to be 'a voice for the people' might just sound hollow (Stephanie Foo - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 03:46:45 GMT[CPF: Leave at 55 at your own peril? - Leong SZe Hian] "This is not the first time that CPF policies have been changed without anyone knowing about it - no announcement in Parliament or the media."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 03:26:32 GMTThe cowardly [Tony Tan's FB] deletion, plus phony affirmation of "genuine, honest and respectful debate", is significant. It is concrete evidence that cronyism is rampant in certain quarters. Revelations like the one below [by Raj Mohan] strike a resonant chord with the outraged when we are supposed to be living in a country that subscribes to meritocracy (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 03:12:23 GMTHere's feedback from two friends in the food business. [ Letter from Pro-Singapore businessmen ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 03:01:18 GMTDr Tony Tan deletes FB posting after Netizens point out contradictions with His Son's CV [SGEP Editor: Don't miss the 4 'After Notes', and 10 Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 02:54:41 GMT[Dr Tony Tan expresses 'disappointment' at 'false rumors', but still refuses to answer questions to clear the air] Dr Tony Tan should pin-point exactly what the false rumors are instead of hurling wild accusations at the online community. As a former Defence Minister, he should have no problem answering the following questions...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 02:42:58 GMT[Dr Tony Tan deeply disappointed by false rumours - The Online Citizen] TOC replied to Dr Tony Tan's office that if we do not cover the issues that are making news, then TOC will lose all credibility.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 02:36:25 GMT[S'pore PR angry at not being informed of 'defence medical scientist' as a vocation during NS] Dear Dr Tony Tan: I came to know about the controversy regarding your son only today and I am extremely angry and frustrated. Let me explain about my own background, then perhaps you will understand my sadness.. Raj Mohanhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 02:32:41 GMT["The current allegations - mostly posted anonymously on the Internet - are false. It seems clear that such rumours are intended to hurt my father, which makes it all the more painful for me." - Dr Patrick Tan] As usual, avoid answering questions and counter-accuse others of 'smearing' instead, to divert attention.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 02:28:08 GMT[Dr Tony Tan's son clarifies his NS status] "Throughout my NS, I received an NSman's salary and fulfilled all requirements of NS including IPPT and subsequent reservist obligations such as in-camp training at the rank of 3rd Sergeant."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 02:23:15 GMT[PSC scholar writes to Dr Patrick Tan to enquire about his 'relaxed' NS stint as 'defence scientist'] "I am wondering is it because my father is a road sweeper and my mother is a non-graduate housewife. Do you think you will be given such an opportunity if you were born by my parents?" - PSC scholar Mohd Nizam to President scholar Dr Patrick Tan Boon Ooi.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 02:14:08 GMTTony may be regretting for quitting his comfortable position in GIC.. The real heat is actually on the shoulders of the 3 wise men.. to decide who meets the stringent legal criteria to even stand as a candidate. And the whole population is watching them like a hawk. Any mis-step is going to see their fathers and mothers being invited to the media for a big screwing (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 01:51:47 GMT[Police actions were appropriate] We refer to Mr Ong Swee Huat's letter, "Taxi fare not paid, passenger goes free". The failure to pay taxi fares falls under Section 24D of PTC Act which is a non-arrestable offence.. The police officer attending to the case had to act within the confines of the law.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 01:37:48 GMTI was told by the police to contact my taxi company for assistance and that it was "a small matter and the police have bigger roles". My company's response later was: There is nothing it could do [although it is willing to compensate the amount]. Letter from Ong Swee Huat - TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 01:32:22 GMTA police report was lodged against Mr Wang Peng Fei on 24 July 2011 for allegedly uttering racist remarks against S'pore women in a self-made video clip posted on YouTube. Appended below is the translated transcript of the video clip (Transcribed & Translated by Dan Feng - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 01:21:16 GMT[How much to pay for your property] In my talk on financial planning, I suggested... This article explains how these benchmarks are calculated.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 01:13:33 GMTWhat the IRs did, though, was provide "just another avenue for gambling. The thinking is that some of these gamblers moved away from the traditional gambling areas and move into casinos." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 01:10:28 GMTAfter you and your spouse are adequately insured, you may wish to focus on 2 main priorities for your child: Health and education. Here are some things to consider.. (Paul Hughes is chief marketing officer at AIA Singapore - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:59:10 GMT[Manage your own life annuity] I gave a talk on financial planning to several employees of a company. These employees will be approaching retirement. I advised them about importance of getting an adequate income during retirement, and offered a suggestion on how they can manage their own annuity. This suggestion is set out in this paper..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:53:58 GMT[Formula almost guarantees fare increases] PTC's reply Thursday states that "PTC implemented full fare reduction of -2.5 per cent allowed under the fare formula last year". From the perspective of ordinary S'poreans, should fares go up when their real wages are down? When real wages drop, one already has less money for expenses, so why increase the cost of basic necessities as well?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:39:21 GMT...And why this hike isn't necessary (Leong Sze Hian)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:38:06 GMTI refer to the report: "Multiple transport operators could see commuters paying more, says Lui". What is there to stop the Govt from imposing similar service requirements [a mix of profitable and loss-making routes] on new transport operators to prevent the "cherry-picking" that he views as unfair and unacceptable? No reasonable commuter would expect the authorities to allow new operators a blank cheque to "cherry-pick" routes.. (Letter from Young Pak Nang - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:33:08 GMT[Our Transport Ministry is so useless] With more competition, how can in the end, commuters would have to pay more overall? Mr. Lui, you can tell children about your simple mushroom story but for S'poreans who are now well educated, please do not fool us with your simple and wrong logic.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:25:32 GMTMore primary school admission suggestions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:13:21 GMTFairer Primary 1 entry system.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:11:40 GMTEnlarging the popular primary schools won't work.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 30 Jul 2011 00:09:33 GMT[Back to school for 'kiasu' parents] Well-to-do, highly educated parents are volunteering to help at elite schools to raise the chances of their children being admitted there, and thus gain a headstart in the paper chase (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 23:57:18 GMTDr Tony Tan's son clarifies his National Service status (New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 16:04:17 GMT[Sticky bomb!] The gist of this question was supposedly the (NS) disruption, and Tony Tan's son's vocation as a "military" scientist. But upon further scutiny, some skeleton just pop out of the cabinet..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:59:52 GMT[Commencement] For now, let's graduate to this morning's Commencement of the SMU class of 2011. "Commencement"... I guess because the graduates are beginning a new phase of life.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:53:31 GMT[The "Gahmen Owes Me" Mentality] This is not the way for S'poreans to move forward. I believe S'poreans want a freer, more open and more democratic society. This means S'poreans have to take greater charge of their own lives, stop relying on the Govt, and start telling the Govt to butt out and stop sticking its nose where it doesn't belong.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:44:54 GMT"Ex-political detainees will not be allowed to re-write history".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:40:14 GMTThe recent Bersih Rally held in KL opened the eyes of many S'poreans. Even the daughter of Malaysia's long-time ruler Dr Mahathir Mohamed, Marina Mahathir, took part in the rally. Here's how she described what she saw.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:37:18 GMTChina Men Illegal Gathering - No Riot Police, 1 handcuffed Local Man Escaped - Riot Police Deployed.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:27:01 GMT[Offer an alternative better than nationalisation] Dear Straits Times: I refer to 22 Jul 2011 letter. Mr Toh Cheng Seong asked WP to state the cost of buying out outstanding shares of SMRT and SBS... (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:22:38 GMT[Offer an alternative better than nationalisation] MR GERALD Giam calls the Govt dogmatic for sticking to privatisation and profit ['Consider the economic reality of transport here']. Yet he and the Workers' Party are doggedly pursuing their transport nationalisation plan without offering the very economic algorithm he blames the Govt for ignoring (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:19:09 GMTSingapore Blood Suckers (SBS) Transit...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:15:45 GMTIt will take some time before commuters stop associating the Minister's name [Tuck Yew] with a similar sounding profanity since the overdue measures are applicable only for one line of many. Plus, it is not hard to imagine the fellow is obviously is working on another line of excuses to justify the impending fare hike (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 15:13:55 GMT[Mobile Games developed by TKL Associates] Here is my reply to queries from Today and Wanbao.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 29 Jul 2011 14:55:04 GMTMr Kelvin Lee, 34, who contacted Today, said: "Even though betting on TOTO and 4D is legal, what is legally right may not be morally right. Given the fact that Mr Tan is running for presidency, he should aim for some moral high ground, especially with public unhappiness over gambling." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 23:36:20 GMTBusiness and legal experts reiterated that there is a clear difference between heading a company with paid-up capital of at least $100 million, as opposed to managing funds in excess of that amount (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 23:31:46 GMT[MP faults ST report, editor replies] ST Forum EDITOR'S NOTE: Our headline was not inaccurate.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 23:23:28 GMTI remember the case of Lee Hsien Loong, Goh Chok Tong and Tony Tan at a polling station at Cheng San where WP and SDP claimed that they were not supposed to be. WP made a police report but the whole incident did not see much of the light of day.. let's not be surprised if we hear nothing more from the heat generated from the 'Cooling Day' by Salah Tin Pailin. A precedent has been set more than a decade ago (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 23:18:50 GMTI was told by the police to contact my taxi company for assistance and that it was "a small matter and the police have bigger roles". My company's response later was: There is nothing it could do [although it is willing to compensate the amount]. Letter from Ong Swee Huat - TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:37:34 GMT[Multiple transport operators could see commuters paying more] "There is a certain amount of cross subsidy that is taking place from the profitable routes to the non-profitable routes ... if you allow cherry-picking to the profitable routes, then the challenge is what happens to the non-profitable routes?" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:32:05 GMT[Holding to a moral compass against the pull of profits] At law school admissions interviews, many applicants often speak passionately of their desire to be criminal lawyers to protect the underdogs, the oppressed, the wrongly accused. What happened to the ideals, the zeal and the passion? Are they snuffed out, unwittingly, in law school? (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:29:27 GMTFrom January next year, financial institutions will be required to formally assess a retail customer's investment knowledge and experience before selling them certain investment products. The FI will have to inform the customer if he is assessed not to possess the relevant knowledge or experience. If the customer still intends to proceed with the transaction, he must be advised (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:27:13 GMTResort World Sentosa attempts to cover-up sexual harassment incident.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:22:02 GMTOn Wednesday, Mr Sheldon Adelson, chief executive of Las Vegas Sands - MBS' parent company - also declared that MBS is "on its way to becoming the most profitable casino-resort ever". He had added: "Nobody can convince me that we've even touched the area of saturation of the market. I think S'pore's going to continue to grow and grow and grow." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:19:38 GMTI truly wonder if public housing is affordable any more if citizens, like my family who have heeded the Govt's call to have more children, have to find more than a quarter of a million dollars to make the downpayment on a subsidised public flat (Shi Weilong - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:14:03 GMTLast weekend's Saturday Special report ['Late (great) expectations'] was disappointing as it blamed couples, especially the woman, for S'pore's declining birth rate and delayed parenthood. Couples delay parenthood for good reason. Having babies is more than just about satisfying statistics.. (Jenna Cai - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:09:25 GMTReal estate portal PropertyGuru.com.sg's consumer property sentiment index fell in the 2nd quarter. "What it says is that buyers expect the transactions and prices to carry on going up, and so the expectation is that they are going to have to pay a higher price in the future..." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 21:56:50 GMTWe saw 2 rounds of measures imposed by the Govt to cool the residential property market - one in Aug last year and the other in Jan this year. However, recent developments have significantly reduced the risk of major measures being imposed by the Govt even as new challenges lie ahead. (Ong Teck Hui - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 21:50:06 GMTYou may have noticed property market forecasts are revised as often as the change in sentiment. Is sentiment leading forecasts, or the other way around? MAS has not seen it fit to revise its growth projections as it sees the decline due mainly to temporary shocks. I am inclined to agree with this view until I see more concrete fundamental changes (Colin Tan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 21:43:53 GMT[PSLE] Hmm, just over 2 months left till the PSLE... Boys and Girls, please come up with a study plan for the next 2 months if you have not yet done so... All good wishes to you.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 16:53:59 GMTDear Straits Times: I refer to 28 Jul 2011 letter [Presidential hopeful's contradictions] by Mr Eric Tin. There is nothing self-contradictory between Mr Tan Kin Lian's arguments and his acceptance of the EP's duties and powers. The former is what Mr Tan is pushing for the EP to strive for, over and beyond the latter which are the EP's assigned duties and responsibilities (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 15:33:16 GMT[US , China and the world gold! - Part 2] So after a brief introduction on the modern day monetary system, it's time to focus on the present day.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 15:25:59 GMT["Dr Tan's son entered NS with his regular cohort and attended BMT and OCS. As you may know, there are multiple service pathways for NSmen after BMT. Like many doctors-in-training, he disrupted his NS to attend medical school." - Office of Dr Tony Tan, 27 July 2011, Facebook] Are you convinced by the clarification?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 15:22:08 GMT[Dr Tony Tan replies to allegations that his son received special treatment during NS] As Dr Tony Tan's FB page has very little traffic, I am reproducing the reply in my blog so that we can see his explanation... As a "lau peng", I have a lot of difficulty believing it. The memory of what NS is like is captured in this timeless song by mr brown.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:47:36 GMT[Interview on CNA and Razor TV] I gave interviews to CNA and Razor TV last night on the talk 'Leadership, guided by values' and on the questions asked about the Presidential election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:45:10 GMT[CNA propaganda on PAP's 3 'good' men] State media Channel News Asia is launching a massive propaganda drive to glorify the PAP regime ahead of the coming presidential election to generate public support for its candidate Dr Tony Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:41:31 GMT"All these attention given to Tony Tan by the establishment and the mainstream media, makes me want to regurgitate."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:37:20 GMTDr Tony Tan to Dr Tan Cheng Bock: Good Jobhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:33:16 GMTTony Tan's son served NS as a 'scientist', and NOT as a combat-fit MOhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:28:12 GMT"You know raising bus fares is unpopular," Lim Boon Heng said. "But if we cannot raise bus fares, how will that impact your fellow workers? I am sure you will understand that it is not fair if they cannot get wage increases." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:22:32 GMTWe never asked for S'porean-only privileges. We ask that S'poreans' needs be also considered. You commented, "But believe you me, it only takes a few years to spend what your fathers and your forefathers have earned." Really? How much of our money have you squandered on foreign students?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:16:22 GMTWhy Lee Kuan Yew No Need to Conduct Meet the People's Sessions?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:12:23 GMTCourtesy of our future President Dr Tony Tan: NS for ordinary Singaporeans. 'Special service pathways' for sons of PAP ministers. Jobs and scholarships for foreigners.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 07:09:36 GMT[Can PAP move away from profit-maximisation model? And learn something from Jing Shang] When SMU board of trustees chairman Ho Kwon Ping commented on the failure of business schools to convey the right ethical values to students, I wonder whether this can also apply to the PAP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 06:08:46 GMTI refer to "Presidential hopeful's contradictions", Straits Times, Jul 28th. It appears that the letter writer is deeply confused.. (Furry Brown Dog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 04:33:25 GMT[Politicize] Somebody made this observation, "If you give views that support the govt's views, you are not politicizing, but if you give views that are different, you are politicizing". I want to encourage S'poreans to be broad minded, and to accept alternative views, without applying labels such as "politicizing", "anti-PAP" or "pro-PAP".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 04:29:29 GMTIn what seems like a response to SDP's questioning, MOF has released a list of Qs and As that attempt to explain the operations of our SWFs. A few weeks ago, this website published a series of articles [see here, here, here and here] where we raised questions regarding transfer of our reserves, its usage to buffer investment losses, President in safeguarding the reserves, and so on.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 04:25:09 GMTNew buzzwords: "Cannot be helped".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 04:15:52 GMTHowever you look at it, if profit levels of about $120 million a year are considered "break even" numbers, we must really check what PM Lee was drinking when he made that [recent National Day celebration] speech (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 04:10:47 GMT[PRC hawker couple given Singapore PR by PAP] Have you heard of any other First World countries which give PRs to hawkers? Do we lack hawkers in Singapore?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 04:00:38 GMT[Underemployed PMET: "These past few years have really been hard on us."] Dear Gilbert: I stumbled on transitioning.org only today. Didn't know there's a support group for unemployed citizens like me! It's a good thing what you're doing here and I thank you for this. I've been in between jobs..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 03:55:29 GMT["We won't bring in too many foreigners too fast. We'll work hard to integrate them with our people. We are not planning to make a 6+ million population. Not trying to get there. Dont worry." - PM Lee Hsien Loong, 5 May 2011, CNA] Did he keep his promise so far?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 03:50:40 GMTThis kind of attitude must come to an end sooner or later. Though the trend is changing, that the govt had admitted they did not have the monopoly of ideas, the other truth is saying otherwise... And the political leaders will keep calling the people daft. This will go on and on, as long as the people accept their station in life, to be taken for granted, as daft (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 03:45:53 GMT[Speak for the people] Have the courage to make a change. Do not worry that this approach will cause problems .... it will not. The President does not need to be another center of power, but he can be the light of brightness to focus attention on these issues. When problems are denied, they cannot be solved. When problems are identified and agreed, it is more likely that better solutions can be found.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 02:11:28 GMTBeing Human, Humane, Humanist -- the Whole Shebanghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 01:38:18 GMTBack to the future (version 2) ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 28 Jul 2011 01:30:35 GMTMR TAN Kin Lian argues that the EP should seek to represent the views of the people, and engage actively in public debate with the Govt. Mr Tan's views appear self-contradictory. Like any other key public institution, the EP is expected to exercise powers within legal limits. The EP should also not undermine the dignity of his office by engaging in public discussions on highly politicised matters (Eric Tin - ST Forum, Online and Print editions)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 22:51:00 GMTIt is an irreplaceable loss for S'pore if we have an activist [Elected] President because he will fail to perform the needed role of someone above and beyond politics at critical moments. If you want to be activist, go and get elected into Parliament. The [Elected] Presidency is the wrong place for it. You will be forcing the govt of the day to remove you from office (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 22:39:58 GMT[DR GWEE KIM LENG: 'If Mr Tan wanted it his way, he should have stood in the GE.'] .. [MR NG YA KEN: ('Elected president can be voice of the people'). A president who wins office through this tactic would eventually become another political pillar. This is politicising.]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 22:32:32 GMT[Be clear about president's role] The EP's role is clearly defined, despite the misperception that he can challenge the ruling govt of the day on all and sundry matters. The former presidents have performed their functions well. In our search for the next EP, we should judge the candidates individually on their merits and withhold undue expectations (Richard Goh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 22:28:17 GMT[Hard to confine an elected president to his custodial role] An EP is not a member of the Cabinet, so he cannot be removed at the PM's pleasure. The only way to remove an EP is to impeach him by passing a motion with a two-thirds parliamentary majority. Removing a dissenting but popular president with the mandate of the entire nation may evoke a backlash no ruling govt will want to bear (Liew Shiau Min)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 22:21:46 GMT[Net fare adjustments went down, not up] In evaluating fare applications, PTC is guided by the fare review mechanism adopted since 2005 and revised in 2008 to take into account the higher productivity gains by the 2 public transport operators ['...And why this hike isn't' by Mr Leong Sze Hian]. Mr Leong wrongly stated that fares had increased... (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 22:07:40 GMTSingaporeans' fear of taking responsibility leads to the fear of making decisions ... values such as trust, honesty and courage are important for self-improvement. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 21:48:29 GMT"The PE is very different from the GE. The presidency is noble, dignified and above the political fray. So to those people who are criticising me, please take me seriously because my actual target is the PE." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 21:42:41 GMTWhy public transport fares should not be raised (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 21:37:18 GMTSMRT president and CEO Saw Phaik Hwa said: "In the next 12 months, the profitability of the group will continue to be impacted by increasing cost pressures." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 21:34:41 GMT[To home in on pre-school learning ...] The importance of having a quality pre-school education cannot be understated, as explained in the article "Fewer enter Pri 1 without pre-school education"... it is imperative for community stakeholders to raise the standards, diversity and relevance of this education (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 21:30:51 GMTAlan Shadrake's book about the country's brutal judicial regime landed him with a six-week prison sentence there. What was the experience like? (The Guardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 20:57:55 GMT[Open letter to Dr Tony Tan: Reveal money squandered on foreign students] In recent times, the whispers not only became frequent but they also became a chorus. That chorus is gathering momentum; it needs attention. You commented, "But believe you me, it only takes a few years to spend what your fathers and your forefathers have earned." Really, how much of our money have you squandered on foreign students?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 17:49:35 GMTIn a statement released Wednesday, NSP's sec-gen Hazel Poa shared the party's views: "Theoretically, we have 2 companies "competing" against each other in bus and MRT services. However, since there is no duplication in their area of service, commuters have no real alternatives. Thus we effectively have 2 monopolies." Poa also explained why PAP's and WP's positions fell short of commuters' needs (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 15:44:18 GMT[President can be alternative channel to Parliament: Tan Kin Lian] "..people say Parliament is the way to convey those views but I think we should not only depend on one channel. Parliament may have it's own obstacles and structural obstacles. So the president could be another useful channel."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 15:15:53 GMTBack to the future...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 15:11:54 GMT["President Ong was given full access to info of the reserves during his term of office"] "I was told by the govt it would take 56 man-years to produce a dollar-and-cents value of the immovable assets." - President Ong Teng Cheong, March 2011, Asiaweekhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 13:48:28 GMTAndrew Kuan collects forms for Presidential candidacy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 13:41:17 GMT60.14% voted for this funpack...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 13:38:32 GMT[A Bombastic Scare Tactic] This is not the 1st time the former MM LKY has used his bombastic scare tactic to deter S'poreans from moving towards a 2-party system which he warned as being fraught with dangers. He is a past master in sophistry which he uses consummately in this instance..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 13:36:54 GMTWeak govt will see Singapore 'spiral downwards': Lee Kuan Yew (559 Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 13:35:30 GMT"I took this country from a very low base in the 3rd World, and in 20 to 40 years gradually transformed it into a 1st World country." Are you impressed by his 'feat'?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 13:29:56 GMTPublic Transport: Why PAP and WP positions fall short of commuters' needs (This is a NSP press release by Sec-Gen Ms Hazel Poa)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 13:26:13 GMT[HGCC Advance in Manila] Shin Leong, together with HGCC (Hougang Constituency Committee) core members and a couple of Hougang youth constituents had an informal advance (antonym for retreat) in Tagaytay Highlands and Manila for 4 days.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 13:18:13 GMT[Double Standards of PAP on role of Elected President] In writing the article (against politicizing the role of the President), Asst Prof Wan Wai Yee is obviously taking aim at Mr Tan Kin Lian who is running on the platform of being the Voice of the People. If you study AP Wan's article closely, you will notice she is strangely silent on what she means by "politicize"...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 04:13:19 GMTMr Andrew Kuan appears to be confident of his [COE] chances, judging by his choice of words and his decision to miss the Toastmasters International convention in Las Vegas. Mr Kuan had written, "When I receive the eligibility certificate to contest in S'pore PE, have to be in S'pore in August 2011." (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 03:12:22 GMTAndrew Kuan picks up forms for presidential bid.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 03:04:40 GMTThe sort of activist president "Yawning Bread" is proposing doesn't sounds like a president that is able to unify the people. I have noticed there is no room for wisdom but instead pushing the limits for alternative agendas against the govt of the day, which is also elected by the people (don't miss Readers' Comments) Blogging for Myselfhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 02:42:43 GMT[This is MY country, this is MY flag] Fellow S'poreans, will you fly the flag too? To remind those in power S'pore belongs to S'poreans, and not to political parties or economic institutions. If you are in agreement, spread the word to your friends. Let's make a meaningful statement with our actions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 02:36:45 GMTTips on Critical Illness Insurance.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 02:28:32 GMTmrbrown's The Presidential Hopeful's Campaign Do List.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 02:17:20 GMT[Insight into Tan Kin Lian] This article writes about the history and values of Mr Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 02:12:25 GMTStormy weather this morning reminded me...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 02:09:05 GMTMany people have commented on this [the Presidential post is largely a ceremonial position with no legislative powers], and as a result, have taken the view that the importance of the Presidential elections should be de-emphasised. Mr Shanmugam has also downplayed the importance of the role of the President. The 1st view is a merely a mistake. The 2nd is disingenuous (flâneurose)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 02:01:04 GMTMP with special privileges LKY interviewed on China Central Television, "I believe once you have a weak, ineffectual govt, the whole progress you have made will spiral down." That must be his son's governance he was referring to (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 01:43:39 GMT"If S'pore depends on the talent it can produce out of 3 million people, it's not going to punch above its weight." Today we are punching above our weights by individuals who were produced during a time when the population was a million or less (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 01:33:02 GMT[Talent No Enough, so say the Lees] Do you agree with him?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 01:20:35 GMTThat is LKY's view. Single-party or multi-party systems are just systems. It is the leaders that make them good or bad. We have seen how a single-party system can be good and also can be bad. It is not the panacea or the only panacea for good governance. It is as flawed as the leaders running it (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 01:08:43 GMTOver-reliant on foreigners: even Malaysia's captain agreeshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 00:54:00 GMT["The full scholarships are provided by the S'pore Govt. Each student will receive US$117,000, which includes school fees, a return plane ticket and daily living expenses."] Scholarship for foreigners, NS for S'poreans? What has Tony Tan got to say now?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 00:49:56 GMT[Question University Priorities] When a university goes out of its way to wax lyrical about how two-thirds of its graduates have secured jobs before graduation, some tough questions need to be asked about its motivations for doing so.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 00:45:53 GMTMalaysian football team supporters believe Harimau Malaya squad will be able to regain the high ground and turn the tables on S'pore Lions in the 2nd leg of the Asian Zone World Cup 2nd round qualifying match at National Stadium in Bukit Jalil tomorrow (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 00:32:16 GMTLetter from Datin Ang Kim Teng, President, Malaysian Mental Health Association (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 00:27:53 GMT[Why this, MOF?] It's just been reported in Ministry Of Finance: "A misperception is that the late President Ong had not been provided with sufficient info.. In fact, he was given full access.." We are taught to respect the dead. To let the dead rest peace. To have a better perception of the misperception, one should read President Ong's interview [here].http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 00:21:55 GMTBe wisely stupid, keep cash.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 00:15:26 GMTUS , China and the world gold! (Part 1)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 27 Jul 2011 00:05:00 GMT"ISA Detainee" by Tan Jing Queehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 23:58:00 GMT[An open letter to MG (NS) Chan Chun Sing] "It was very nice to be able to speak briefly with you at the S'pore Blog Awards 2011.. As a young anti-death penalty activist, I can only tell these stories and raise awareness. But the lives of Vui Kong, Chun Yin, Roslan and many others are in your hands, and the hands of your fellow Cabinet Ministers. That is why I am writing.. You are the ones who decide whether a person lives or dies."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 23:54:32 GMT6 mistakes mankind keeps making century after century, by Seneca.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 23:45:14 GMTAs the parents of one of the players said, if Singapore National Olympic Council only wants the best to be sent to all competitions and care little for youth development, no S'porean parent will want his child to go into sports. When that happens, what would SNOC do then? Import even more players from China to represent S'pore? Uh... oh! (Musings From the Lion City)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 23:42:40 GMTThe Samaritans of Singapore [SOS] says there has been an increase in the number of calls seeking counselling assistance, specifically on loan sharks and gambling issues (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 23:38:41 GMT[Asking the boss isn't much of an option] MOM's reply to Mrs Joanna Han's letter ("Why seniors end up as security guards"; July 16) advised employees who are seeking alternative work arrangements to speak to their employers. If a security guard like Mrs Han's mother speaks to her employer about working fewer hours than her current 12 a day, the likely outcome is that she would lose her job. How realistic is it for anyone to heed such (MOM) advice?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 22:09:08 GMT[How MPs can better engage residents] The reason for community indifference to existing programs may be down to the perception that residents' suggestions are regarded lightly or ignored.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 22:06:49 GMT[Old or young, they deserve same fringe benefits] The planned severance law will come into effect next year. It is wrong to consider older, retired workers as expired goods or 2nd-rate job performers, allowing employers to cut their fringe benefits enjoyed by others in the workforce. The severance law should keep all benefits intact..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 22:05:06 GMTI would like to share my views as a regular taxi commuter after reading the letter "It's not easy being a cabby" (Letter from Chlorin Chew Pei Wah - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 21:46:49 GMTFORMER prime minister Lee Kuan Yew has warned of the dangers of Singapore moving towards a two-party system and electing weak and ineffective governments. 'Their argument is simple. A First World country must have a First World Parliament. A First World Parliament must have a First World opposition. Then you can change dice. I think if ever we go down that road, I'll be very sorry for Singapore,' he said. [ST Online]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 16:25:52 GMTSingapore - The land of coincidences...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 08:46:17 GMT[A comparative analysis of real CPF returns and other provident funds] For this article, I examined 4 listed countries' provident funds in Wikipedia, namely S'pore, India, HK and M'sia. There may well be more provident funds, but for some reason Wikipedia only has 4 listed. These 4 schemes would be examined in detail below..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 08:41:50 GMTAt the Deyi Nomination Centre, you could see the organizational efficiency of PAP and the inefficiency of the Opposition. However, when it came to effectiveness, it seemed to be the reverse (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 08:30:10 GMTThis National Day weekend, we invite you to join us in our enthusiastic celebration of Singapore's birthday - our inaugural Singapore Day Party 2011! (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 08:24:48 GMT[Jobless PMET with master degree: "E2i is a useless organisation!"] Hi Gilbert: Your article touches on a lot of sore points with Singaporeans like me, who are jobless.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 08:23:05 GMT[Singapore is not so clean, Mr Murdoch] Crippling poverty and an overpaid govt mean Singapore is not the beacon of social perfection that Rupert Murdoch claims (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 08:05:11 GMT[The presidency is not a feedback channel] So, what is the presidency about then? The Constitution, unless and until it is changed, provides for very limited executive powers for the president. Basically, these reside in 5 areas.. And voters must recognize, understand and accept this. The president has limited powers, and the office is not a feedback channel. Lets be clear about these 2 things.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 07:59:39 GMTMOF Website : 12 questions on the reserves and the President's role in safeguarding it.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 05:27:30 GMTThe Ministry of Finance has updated its website to provide more information on the protection of Singapore's reserves. [Yahoo News - FTP]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 05:22:53 GMTStronger But Poorer: MAS records net loss of $10.9b due to strong Singdollarhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 02:45:00 GMT[Articles of Law by Bhag Singh] It may sometimes be less costly to admit guilt even though one is innocent because fighting it out in court may be beyond the means of the average wage-earner (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 02:38:13 GMTIt gives cause to wonder if intellectual property laws are selectively applied in S'pore. [Reader Lye Khuen Way said... "When that 'Hard Truth' came out , I was joking about that line from 'A Few Good men' : ' You can't handle the truth ' ! Now they decided to name a show with that title ! They sure know how to take and give.."] SingaporeNoteshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 02:14:34 GMT[Should S'pore nationalize its transport system?] The petition of S'pore's transport operators SMRT (train service) and SBS (bus transit) for a fare increase has sparked a debate on the quality and future of the public transportation system in the prosperous city state.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 01:29:03 GMTStatement by Tan Kin Lian - Ensure CPF savings are secure and adequate for retirement needshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 01:22:52 GMTThe issue of life long pensions in the millions is going to bug the govt and the people for a long time to come. Why are people so unhappy about this pension scheme for the ministers and political office bearers? CPF savings can now be withdrawn partially at the age of 62. And the political leaders, with their huge salaries, are getting their huge pensions at 55 (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 01:19:54 GMTI refer to the statement from Tan Kin Lian on public transport. http://tankinlian.blogspot.com/2011/07/statement-from-tankin- lian-public.html I've never had bad taxi service until recent years.....[A Singapore Commuter]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 01:19:35 GMTIf there's proof that Ministers are out of touch, it was best presented in Shanmugam's insistence that the elected presidency is a fundamental pillar of govt (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 01:02:32 GMTWHAT info does the president have about the reserves? And did the Govt provide former President Ong with enough info to protect the reserves? The answers to these, and other pointed questions, are now on MOF's website, which was updated extensively last week (StraitsTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 00:30:32 GMTSingapore GIC's portfolio at a glance.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 26 Jul 2011 00:20:15 GMT[What is a president for, and how do we choose?] If you read between the lines, the govt wants a president who knows his is a ceremonial job, with no room for discretion or input, except in the 5 prescribed areas. Personally, I would rather have an activist president... to articulate regularly the aspirations of S'poreans, be it for more compassion, more equality, more openness, or more hope.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 22:39:12 GMT[Beyond Independence, Trust and Accessibility] Who among these players will we find faith in; who will we throw our trust behind; who will we want as president to be our voice, our conscience, in our forever changed political landscape? Who will give us the best hope of having a president of the people? (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 22:37:19 GMTMr Lee Kuan Yew has done it again. First, the former PM angered the Malay-Muslim community.. Then, he threatened the voters of Aljunied GRC.. Now, on the [anti-foreigner] issue.. Mr Lee's latest remarks have attracted a barrage of criticisms - with more than 2,100 netizens posting comments on Yahoo! Sg (Nigel Tan, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 22:34:57 GMT[Citizen engagement: Top-down support for ground-up initiatives] I read with interest Mr Eugene K B Tan's commentary, "The lines are starting to blur", and I concur fully with his observation. Moving forward, when it comes to citizen engagement, the govt has to seek first to understand, then to be understood. More importantly, the Govt has to approach citizens' suggestions with a sincere heart and an open mind (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 22:33:30 GMT[The price for taming inflation] Your newspaper has rightly singled out the huge loss suffered by MAS for keeping Singdollar strong ["MAS posts record $10.9b loss on strong Singdollar"]... we now learn there is a huge price to pay. The mathematics of inflation is much more complicated if we work out all the possible negative effects high inflation would cause. MAS must have done its homework.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 22:31:53 GMTAs for the executive director post, which is now vacant following Dr Tony Tan's resignation to run for President, group president Lim said the decision rests with GIC board: "The critical thing is to make such an appointment only when there is an individual who has the requisite knowledge and experience, and also has a clear appreciation of how the financial reserves under GIC's management contributes towards the well-being of S'poreans." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 22:30:06 GMT[Presidential Election Watch Part III - Dr Tony Tan & Singaporeans' CPF Savings & Wage Cuts] - "What sort of an achievement is it if you instead make them poorer?" [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 12:53:33 GMT[Defaulting CPF 8: PAP giving all our monies to USA for free to condemn us to poverty] If the ratings agencies downgrade the United States' credit rating, Singapore's foreign reserves could take a hit amid the collateral damage, although the impact is unlikely to be long-lasting. But the possibility is inching ever closer. [Veritas]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 12:51:35 GMTOf all who have expressed their interest to be President of Singapore, Mr Tan Kin Lian is the only one who openly shared his views of the proposed public transport fare hikes.....When asked by the media about his views of the public transport fare hikes, Dr Tan Cheng Bock was quoted to say, "We are not allowed to,we shouldn't comment on issues because the President must be above all these discussions." [ Small steps for Social PR Blog ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 09:18:40 GMT[Cheap Shot For Tony] It seems surreal to me that Tony Tan, who had no empathy for having disabled or handicapped children in mainstream schools, and by extension, in our paper-conscious society, would be pictured attending to a 'disabled' child.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 07:44:58 GMTHow to Choose Your Best President - An Article by Dr Tommy S W Wong. [ Author of book series "Wisdom on How to Live Life" ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 04:13:52 GMTMy challenge to the ruling party is therefore to define talent. What talent are you talking about? How has the country encouraged and developed talents? If we still feel the need to do so, we may as well import foreign talents to be in our cabinet - after all to quote Mr LKY again: "Let's remove the foreign element first. There's no better way to run the country than the best man for the most difficult job." (SpeakSpokeWriteWrote)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 04:04:03 GMT[Home-grown or foreign players? STTA clashes with SNOC] SNOC disagrees with STTA's decision to hold back our top 3 players from China... what say you?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 03:18:47 GMT[Khaw: Problem of high resale flat prices cannot be resolved overnight] At least he didn't say 'cannot be helped'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 02:41:10 GMTIt's the kind of statement that gives you a stronger jolt than the morning dose of caffeine. Minister Khaw says resale prices can only stabilise in 3 to 5 years... Why so long? Rome wasn't built in a day, but the Marina Bay Sands casino sure went up in a hurry (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 02:37:29 GMTEverything also cannot be helped...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 02:30:05 GMT["Fare increases cannot be helped." - PM Lee] What to do? Time to move on?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 02:27:29 GMTIf he becomes President, Dr Tan will be less obtrusive as he employs a strategy he terms 'quiet diplomacy'.. "It's not necessary to go posture yourself and say, "I'm so great or I'm coming here to defend this case" but the end result is naught, zero. You ask yourself what is it you want. You want results or to show you are such a great fighter. For me, I would rather make sure I get good results." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 02:24:58 GMTDr Tan is latest in line to adopt what SDP have been saying for years.. In 2006, PM Lee launched a Singaporeans First program to give priority to S'poreans in healthcare services. Way back in the late 1990s, SDP was already championing such an approach and had coined the term as an alternative to PAP's Foreign Talent Policy which we have said repeatedly is a guise to import cheap foreign labor en masse into S'pore (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 02:23:27 GMTSPH getting really desperate...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 02:21:16 GMT[Talk by Tan Kin Lian on Leadership] Tan Kin Lian is giving a talk on 'Leadership' to the Marketing Institute of Singapore. The event is open to the public. Details here..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 02:18:41 GMTEven our neighbors are mocking at our shameless mass-immigration and pro-foreigner policies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 01:33:20 GMTWhile there is growing resentment against foreign talent among some locals, most S'poreans welcome expatriates who can make a positive difference to their country and ensure it continues to punch way above its weight in the world. Like all advanced economies, S'pore must embrace the best talent in the world to continue to thrive (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 01:25:49 GMT["There are many countries where the citizens comes first, where foreign immigration is controlled and restricted, and where there is wealth accummulation - yet there is still so much creativity and innovation. And the welfare of the citizens still take pole position."] Do we still have a future in S'pore?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 01:06:21 GMTWould this be election slogan of PAP in 2016? I am convinced by the powerful arguments. The theme for next NDP is obvious. We shall celebrate the Foreign Spirit. After so many years praising our coolie spirit and how a fishing village became a modern city, it is time to honor the true contributors to our progress, so that we can punch above our weight. I am getting excited.. (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 01:01:34 GMTMr Lee Kuan Yew, can you please spell out the meaning of 'talent' ?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 00:52:22 GMT[Elected president can be the voice of the people] This letter from Tan Kin Lian was published in ST Forum on 25 July 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 00:18:39 GMT[The lines are starting to blur] The public service and civil society are beginning to collaborate more -- and that can only be good for all (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 00:13:45 GMTWe refer to ['Coping with NS: Wrong to place onus on parents']. SAF has measures in place to help pre-enlistees prepare for NS. There are also measures to help our servicemen adjust to military life and cope with training (Col Desmond Tan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 25 Jul 2011 00:09:50 GMT[... the 'teddy bear' debt collector] He may look more like a grizzly than a cuddly stuffed toy but debt collector Ronald Rajan does have a soft center (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 23:49:43 GMTMy father has worked as a taxi driver for more than 40 years and often complains about fare cheats and the lack of recourse for cabbies ['Taxi fare cheats on the rise']. Of late, with the IRs in operation, my father has noticed a trend of gamblers running off without paying their fares. Such cases have been brought to LTA's attention, but it has been unable to help (Laura Ler - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 23:44:13 GMTI fully understand why cabbies find it a hassle to report fare cheats ["Taxi fare cheats on the rise"]. What is the use of changing the law to ensure fare cheats face a harsher penalty, when enforcement is so weak? The cabby has to go through the hassle of filing a police report, forwarding the report to his company and filing a complaint with the magistrate - just to claim the unpaid fare (Tee Poh Chuan - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 23:38:09 GMT[Anti-competitive] 'Almost all car dealers insist buyers take up motor loans and insurance from companies they have tied up with.' (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 23:30:01 GMTIT IS not surprising the recent application to increase fares has raised the ire of some commuters. Consumers do not welcome price increases for goods or services for which an alternative is out of their reach. It is surprising, therefore, that households have generally accepted the electricity tariff without much fuss. This may be due to most of them believing, somewhat mistakenly, that the tariff... (Letter from David Boey - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 23:25:52 GMT"the Govt decided that video recording would not be really effective in ensuring that statements were voluntarily given. Nor would video recording prevent allegations that the statements were given under some form of coercion. Indeed, as can be seen from the Ismil Kadar case, the allegations related to matters which could not have been video recorded" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 22:34:45 GMT[Reconsider video recording ...] I read with interest "Calls for video recording have been considered", about a procedure that still troubles many criminal practitioners like myself, a law firm director. With greatest respect to MinLaw, the need for video recording of interviews is not merely to mitigate against coerced statements but against inaccuracies in taking statements.. there really is no reason for such recording not to be introduced (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 22:30:08 GMTWith S'poreans increasingly turning to renting out their apartments for extra income, more disputes are flaring up between landlords and tenants, according to lawyers and property agents. And it is not only the landlords who are giving their tenants headaches (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 21:48:22 GMTThe news report "Some tenants in arrears hold landlords to ransom" gives a 1-sided view of the rental situation in S'pore. Our previous landlord doubled the rent.. He refused to negotiate even though the average rent of similar properties was much lower. It places great strain on any family to pack up and leave every time. There is, however, often no choice (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 21:40:45 GMT[Heroes of Singapore ?] It's no wonder our PAP members (former included) are so well respected! When election lingers , they always seem to have the uncanny ability to remind us of their value. After all, a life is worth more then millions:) .. Dr Vivian Balakrishnan rushes to help fallen woman .. Tony Tan Attending to a Fallen Boy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 14:52:29 GMTIncrease in public transport fares cannot be help .. Local Citizens competing unequally for jobs cannot be help.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 14:35:47 GMT[Could answer to transport woes lie in immigration policy?] Immigration policy has strained infrastructure .. More clarity from the govt needed.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 14:21:09 GMT[Enter the PM] It is time for S'poreans to tell the authorities: Solve the problems, or else get out. And for PM to speak up in defence of the PTOs shows how much he knows about what is going on - or how much he is aware of S'poreans' anger. In other words, he sounds like a PM who is completely out of touch.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 10:47:07 GMTPM Lee has weighed in on the ongoing debate concerning the public transport fare review. He said that a review is necessary from time to time and increases cannot be helped.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 10:44:07 GMTHaving heard from netizens, REACH will work to keep govt agencies in the loop and send early alerts on issues that deserve quick attention. Dr Amy Khor, REACH chairman, also said the unit is looking to further engage S'poreans in shaping policies. REACH will be involved in a major feedback exercise next month during the National Day Rally (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 07:49:29 GMT[Too Much Too Little Too Late] I am dedicating this song to President Sellapan Ramanathan in honour of his new-found determination. Suddenly, he has woken up from his two terms of slumber. He has been in the news almost daily to show that he intends to leave the office that pays him millions annually on a high note. In doing so, he has shown an unprecedented resolve to ensure that he does not...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 06:06:55 GMT[July Woes] Sorry to have to post this here. This is personal and has nothing to do with the main Demon-cratic Singapore series.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 05:45:38 GMT[SUPPORTERS GATHERING 23 JULY 2011 - VIDEOS] Here are the videos of the opening statement, and answers given by Tan Kin Lian to the various hot topics of the day.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 05:41:15 GMTIn August 2003, then DPM Dr Tony Tan cautioned about the need to cut CPF and wages. He quoted the independent research unit PERC. When challenged, PERC's CEO said it was based on perception of business leaders, not hard statistics. Minister Tony Tan went ahead to slash CPF contribution anyway, either because he was too stupid to discern the truth, or that he assumed the people would be too stupid to understand it (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 05:35:09 GMT[Tony Tan continues to twist and turn about his pro-foreigner education policies] After his pro-foreigner education policies in the 1980s and 1990s were exposed for all to see, PAP-endorsed presidential candidate Dr Tony Tan has launched a 'charm offensive' on his FB to salvage his battered image. In his latest note posted, Dr Tan put up a facade of being 'magnanimous' in accepting brickbats he had received recently from S'poreans..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 05:18:28 GMTWhat is our govt's responsibility to these foreign students that ended up with our children being pushed aside, our citizens being discriminated and have to suffer financial obligations when they don't have to? 'Singaporeans First' must be real, and seen to be real. S'poreans are not daft. They know what is good and what is bad for them, especially when their pockets are hurt real bad. (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 05:03:47 GMTIn their wealth trickle down philosophy, you pay the elites first. Therefore ministers don't earn their spurs first, and SMRT and SBST do not need to improve ride experience before fares can be raised... There is not enough wealth to trickle down because they have just incredible appetites. The $200m in profits is too small. What a huge transfer of wealth up river. Gravity doesn't exist in this space, does it? (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 04:41:26 GMT"But we have to allow the transport companies to break even..." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 04:32:34 GMT[For the sake of Singapore's future] Dear Mr Tan: We know we can count on you to 'Do The Right Thing' for the sake of Singaporeans' future..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 04:26:13 GMT[Why Many S'poreans Are Irked By Mr Lee Kuan Yew's Remark on Foreign Talents] Frankly, I was slightly surprised at the strong reaction of S'poreans... I just checked today that there were about 1,500 comments on the Yahoo S'pore website and most were anti-foreign talent. The article must have been read by more than 30, 000 S'poreans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 04:21:13 GMTWhen and which S'porean is against genuine and real foreign talents? Please lah, don't talk nonsense and argue for the sake of arguing. S'poreans will continue to be pissed off with 'foreign talents' when they are not really talents, and when jobs that S'poreans can easily fill are given to foreigners who are no better than them... They refused to listen to what S'poreans are saying, and refused to understand them. (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 04:15:35 GMT[Open letter to Lee Kuan Yew to review our foreign labor policies] Will anybody listen?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 24 Jul 2011 04:02:07 GMT[PAP begins search for 2016 GE candidates?] Dear PM Lee, can you offer something concrete to be more convincing, other than your apologies and all that?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 23:33:23 GMT[We are successful because of 'foreign talent' - Lee Kuan Yew] "That's the choice. In the case of S'pore, we accept extra megabytes and that's why, I think, we are more successful than we would otherwise have been." Do you agree with Lee Kuan Yew that S'pore owes its 'success' today to his hordes of 'foreign talent'?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 23:29:30 GMT[DPM Teo States The Obvious, Public Applauds] This post is digressing tremendously! This is how my mind actually works, if you're curious. But that's probably not what you came here for, so let's go there instead.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 23:13:15 GMT[Religiosity and income inequality] Against the backdrop of rising inequality as measured by the Gini coefficient - the outcome of economic policies pursued by the PAP govt - we can't help wondering if the study's findings ("Religion is regarded by the common people as true, by the wise as false, and by rulers as useful") may well apply in S'pore too.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 23:02:12 GMTIn 1993, when Mr Chua Kim Yeow contested against a candidate endorsed by PAP, he asked in his TV message, "In S'pore, as you know, PAP dominates the Govt and dominates the legislature. Do you want PAP to dominate the presidency as well?" (Temasek Review's comment: "He won nearly 47 percent of the votes against then-DPM Ong Teng Cheong who was one of the more popular PAP ministers around.")http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 12:13:04 GMT[Talk by TKL - Leadership, guided by values] I am giving this talk to members of Marketing Institute of Singapore. It is also open to the public. There will be an active Q&A session. It will be extended to issues of interest to the audience, including the Presidential Election. The media has been invited, so it will be an exciting session.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 12:04:37 GMTSocial Workers, We need you - MCYS say one (Reader's Comment: "Your suggestions, however well meaning, will not be practical in S'pore. You forget that we are now in a KPI driven environment... So tell me, in all honesty, how can a people-oriented profession thrive under such an environment??)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:59:39 GMTWe thank Mr Ang Chin Guan ['Separate deliveries of mail and fliers'] for his suggestion, which we will consider, while bearing in mind the needs of customers and postmen, resources, productivity and routes. We review the postmen's beats regularly.. (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:53:49 GMTI refer to SingPost's reply ['With 2.8m deliveries a day, human error is unavoidable'] to Mr Robert Tan's ['No word on late mail probe promise']. SingPost has sole access to HDB residents' locked letterboxes to deliver such fliers, and the revenue generated from such a monopoly service should be enough to warrant a separate unit to carry out such deliveries. The relevant authorities should stop SingPost from combining the delivery.. (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:49:56 GMT['Why health care is like water' - Dr Yik Keng Yeong, ST Forum Online] Well, I don't think healthcare is like water - for one thing, healthcare doesn't fall from the sky like water, and I don't agree the govt automatically has rights over all healthcare that falls onto S'pore. But I certainly agree with Dr Yik's observation that...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:37:02 GMTThe OTP Series 3: The Bogeyman Strikes Again (OTP = Out of Touch Party. This is an occasional series to provide commentary on how PAP is out of touch with Singapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:29:42 GMTWhy the CEO is not the Best Spokesperson in a Crisis (cw fong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:27:07 GMT[To kill an enemy, one must use the right tool] I was just browsing a popular Political site which is known to be staunchly against the govt and notice some gross mistakes..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:24:38 GMTSave the World's Saddest Dolphins campaignhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:19:50 GMT[Democrats step up assistance to Marsiling needy families] SDP distributed more groceries to 30 families who had indicated they were in need of assistance. The follow-up visit helped us to further determine the best ways of helping these residents. SDP's Community Services Subcommittee are planning to reach out to residents in the Ghim Moh area within the next several weeks.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:12:08 GMTThe OTP Series 2: Delusions (OTP = Out of Touch Party. This is an occasional series to provide commentary on how PAP is out of touch with Singapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:05:00 GMT[Lim Boon Heng: We work extremely 'hard' for the people] Are you 'touched' by your 'extremely hardworking' PAP ministers and MPs?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 11:01:14 GMT[Loss of Aljunied 'not entirely unexpected': ex-PAP chairman] Do you feel this is mere 'damage control' mode by PAP?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 10:58:44 GMTThe OTP Series 1: Foreign "Talents" (OTP = Out of Touch Party. This is an occasional series to provide commentary on how PAP is out of touch with Singapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 10:54:06 GMT[Lee Kuan Yew: We will continue to welcome 'talent'] What is his definition of 'talent'?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 10:49:55 GMT[Talents?] I was doing some research on the govt's views on talent over the course of time, and this recent interview caught my attention... This speech is very excellent and has truth in it . But the question I now ask: "Of the massive influx we have, how many are actually talent ?"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 10:47:09 GMTPAP begins search for 2016 GE candidates (lots of Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 10:41:32 GMT[PAP to prepare for 'leadership renewal' - PM Lee] "To be the PM, you don't have to know every instrument.. And if you already have a great orchestra, you can put A DUMMY there and you still got great music." - Lee Kuan Yew, 5 March 2008 (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 10:38:33 GMTI am responding to Ministry of Law's letter, "Help for homegrown law firms to go abroad". In years past, that part of Govt which oversaw the legal profession fostered a select group of lawyers and law firms.. The private sector, impressed by their connections and success, became their clientele, thus giving these few individuals and firms a commanding lead within the profession (Letter from Arthur Loke - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 03:27:52 GMT[Giving work to smaller law firms not practical] Mr Arthur Loke's letter suggests the Ministry use its influence to persuade "Govt agencies and companies affiliated with the Govt ... to redirect some of their commercial work to smaller firms." This proposition is not practical. Firms which are not competitive enough should not be artificially propped up, and should be allowed to close (Chong Wan Yieng - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 03:24:14 GMTHow can a guy be convicted based on testimony alone, seemingly without any concrete evidence? How is it possible that those who were at the scene have escaped the death penalty, while the guy who was arrested 'one month later', based on their testimony, be headed for the noose? (KirstenHan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 03:09:55 GMT[MinLaw: Video recordings of statement-taking not 'effective'] Do you trust the Singapore police to check on itself?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 02:51:18 GMTThis is not the place to tear up her argument paragraph by paragraph.. I want to just remind myself how careless and thoughtless she had gone about using numbers. No tables or charts of numbers from Christopher Tan, but a well written and engaging tour of the history and experience of public transport systems elsewhere. We should be happy he obviously didn't coordinate with Minister Lui to write his piece (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 02:36:52 GMTWhile MoS Josephine Teo ['Public transport model not key issue'] focused on the efficiency of S'pore's public transport system.. we also need a system that is affordable to the masses, and that does not penalise those who cannot afford private transport, such as forcing them to suffer poor service because they must commute by bus or train (Tan Jiaqi - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 02:27:15 GMTLarge photos - BostonGlobehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 01:23:07 GMTLetters to the Editor - TheStar, Malaysiahttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 01:19:31 GMTMAS said it has decided after an investigation it will not take regulatory action against GLP in relation to the omission of info concerning a non-competition arrangement. GLP is a GIC-linked company which listed on SGX in October 2010 (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 01:16:01 GMT[MAS records net loss of $10.9 billion] How much of the loss is attributable to the strong Sing$? How much of the loss is caused by excessive speculation or trading (if any)? It is important for the President to ask these questions, get the answers from MAS, and be able to interpret these answers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 01:07:39 GMTWith each intervention to boost the Sing$, MAS's equity investments in US$ terms will be further eroded. MD Ravi Menon claims from his ivory tower, "A strong Sing$ has helped..." All we see at ground level is bus and train companies using oil price as excuse to seek a record 2.8 percent hike, and a $10.9 billion gaping hole in MAS report card. Somebody has some serious explaining to do. Apologies not accepted (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 00:56:13 GMTGrowth of Asia cannot be ignored. Asia-centric portfolio would make good sense.. should also have some international holdings (Mah Ching Cheng is head of investment communications at DBS Bank - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 00:44:35 GMT[The beginning of a new era] It was part of a multi-million dollar deal when M'sia and S'pore signed an agreement to return the 79 year-old train station at Tanjong Pagar and large tract of railway land to the republic. But the impact of this has provided a breakthrough in other projects (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 00:32:06 GMT[More foreign talents equal to better society growth: LKY] What are your thoughts on former MM Lee's comments? (lots and lots of Readers' Comments, both FaceBook and Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 00:18:50 GMT[S'pore cannot do without foreign talent: Ex-MM Lee] "It's because we have been drawing talent from across the globe that you have a vibrant economy which is way beyond what 3 million S'poreans with the talent they can produce can do. So you've got to accept the discomfort.. It cannot be helped. But without them, the jobs will not be there to begin with. So welcome talent and we'll continue to welcome talent."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 23 Jul 2011 00:13:00 GMTGeylang is more Chinatown than the Chinatown downtown. In an interview with National Geographic in Dec 2009, PAP supreme leader LKY proclaimed that "it is a good thing S'pore is welcoming so many Chinese immigrants from mainland as they are harder-driving and harder-striving than S'poreans." Welcome to Chinapore! (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:58:09 GMTNational Day is coming...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:47:33 GMT[Razor TV - TKL Media Conference] "I do not need to receive a large salary. I will pledge that I will donate at least 50% of the salary to charity and other worthy causes."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:45:13 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock was asked by reporters for his views on the proposed fare hikes. He replied: "The President must be above all these discussions ... " In contrast, Mr Tan Kin Lian publicly called on Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew and LTA to "take urgent steps to revamp the public transport system in S'pore .. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:38:55 GMT[NUS' merit-based admissions policy puts S'poreans first: The 'Singaporean first' myth' by Mr Adam Liew] The vast majority of undergraduate students we admit are local students (R Rajaram, Director, Office of Admissions - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:30:36 GMTTHERE are basic differences between "Singaporeans first" and "Singaporeans only" for higher education ["The 'Singaporean first' myth" by Mr Adam Liew]. The present criteria, as pointed out by Mr Liew, clearly disadvantage S'poreans seeking uni education. Why do I advocate that uni should cater to only S'poreans, while reserving some places for paying foreigners? (Paul Chan - ST Forum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:21:14 GMTWhile I agree with Dr Tan's dismissal of a 'Singaporeans only' tertiary landscape ['Tony Tan: S'poreans first, but don't shut out talent'], I am befuddled by his perception that S'poreans are demanding this. On the contrary, what S'poreans are infuriated by are govt and local university measures that excessively favour foreign 'talent' for admission (Adam Liew - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:15:56 GMT"With restrictions on campaign activities as advised by PMO, I call on the msm to give equal coverage to all candidates, so that people can have relevant info to make a wise choice in voting for their President."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:05:21 GMTThe Constitution specifically provides that EP shall not overrule parliamentary decisions... The only check and balance S'pore has on the incumbent party in govt is to deny it the majority to revise the Constitution to its political or fiduciary advantage. However the EP's freedom to publicly express his own opinions on domestic issues that are contrary to those of the incumbent govt is still untested water (Loh Ngin Seng - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 23:00:01 GMT[Elected presidency: Navigating uncharted waters] According to Asst Prof Wan Wai Yee: 'Don't politicise role of president, I argued that the EP should express his views freely, and exercise 'soft powers' that exceed constitutional provisions. I have been misunderstood (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 22:54:38 GMTI refer to ["President's free speech: Lessons from Britain"] and Asst Prof Wan Wai Yee's ["Don't politicise role of president"]. A few points on the EP's role must be made... All these points highlight the importance for the EP to be elected and reflect the will of the electorate to represent the people's conscience and voice. A wise electorate would vote for a wise EP (Ronald Wong - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 22:49:52 GMTTan Kin Lian meets the people of Singaporehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 21:34:34 GMTElgin Toh talks about the right of free speech by the EP in his ST article. Apparently, the official position is that the EP has no right to speak independently. He is not allowed to have his own agenda or policies. It is as good as saying, please shut up. Why the hell is the EP being paid $4m annually, and maybe another 10 or 20 mths of bonuses when he is just what he is constitutionally, a rubber stamp? How to justify this kind of obscene pay? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 21:22:57 GMTSaid WP in a statement, "While the WP appreciates HDB's gesture, it is nothing more." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 21:12:19 GMTDoes the previous baggage of a political party matter more than its ability to evolve to the needs of the community? (Chan Jia Hui - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 20:59:15 GMTPM Lee said the party must start to identify potential new candidates now. "One clear lesson we've picked up from this and previous GEs, is that we have to deploy our candidates as early as possible." Mr Lee called on the party to find a more diverse range of potential candidates - in particular, those not considered to be in the usual mould - as well as more party activists who are able to work the ground effectively.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 17:25:50 GMT[Are The 3rd Generation PAP Leaders Not Really Self-serving?] This introduction of astronomical ministerial salaries gave an entirely different perception to the lofty ideal of serving the people... ministers motivated by a whopping salary and distinction between greed and service was hardly palpable. So we now had a provider of service to the people without a soul and was merely a mercenary.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 16:17:20 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock said he understands the powers of the president are bounded by what is in the constitution. "We should not comment on issues because the president must be above all these discussions, all these issues.."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 16:12:21 GMT[Singaporeans want a President they can trust: Tan Cheng Bock] As someone who believes in being independent, he said not would be interfering in how GIC or Temasek runs their companies if he were voted as President. Instead, he would want to know the processes and procedures that is going within the organisations, saying that he can hold private discussions with them and make his "two cents' worth".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 16:07:32 GMTTKL Media Statement - Dr Tan Cheng Bock applies for Certificate of Eligibility.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 15:45:18 GMTThe Constitution gives the EP blocking powers in 5 narrowly defined areas: the spending of past reserves, key public service appointments, ISA detentions, Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act restraining orders, and CPIB investigations. Can the EP offer his views on issues outside these 5 areas? (StraitsTimes - TRE)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 15:40:56 GMTWith no party manifesto at their disposal and taking into account the limits on the role and powers of the EP, the difference between their platforms could very much be a matter of degree. The key to winning the hearts and minds of the voters would fall on their ability to convince the people of their honesty, integrity and sincerity to serve the people... (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 15:31:06 GMT[The Void Deck Question] As we all know, HDB is now stuck in a pickle. The original intent to show their "non-partisan" and "kind" side by allowing MP office in void deck has now suffered a backlash and is currently a magnet for detractors. Sometimes I really wonder what our high-paying civil servant are doing. If they want to make the playing field hard, at least be smart about it, rather than misstepping the whole thing from day 1.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 02:09:52 GMTCabbie Chat: Why are people so angry with PAP? ("Cabbie Chat" gives you the latest perspective from Singapore's most celebrated purveyors of grapevine gossip -- taxi drivers!)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 02:00:08 GMTSingapore Pledge (Party Against People version)...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 01:46:22 GMTThe Singapore Democrats are organising our National Day Dinner on 6 August 2011. Every year we mark 9 August as the date we became a republic. But few stop to think what a republic is (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 01:42:58 GMT[PAP grassroots leaders beg Choa Chu Kang residents to hang S'pore flag] Any similar experiences? Have you hung the S'pore flag yet to express your 'love' for S'pore?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 01:37:37 GMTThe "mypaper" picked a very interesting article about how corrupt the UK is though it looks clean and good in public. The choice is timely... I will just quote some of the pertinent verses. Read them and reflect a moment on their relevance to present day context (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 01:33:22 GMTStatement from Tan Kin Lian - Public Transport Fareshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 01:23:44 GMTLaw school tuition is rising 4 times as fast as the cost of an undergraduate degree, which itself is soaring. Despite the high costs, students are still flocking to law schools. Should the standard 3-year model of legal education be the only path toward becoming a lawyer? Could law school be shortened, or should those 3 years of classes have a different focus? 8 experts share their views (NYT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 01:19:12 GMTWe sometimes forget a simple fact about the law: as our needs grow and change, the law can grow and change with those needs (TheStar, Malaysia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 01:13:23 GMT[Future of Singapore is mixed] This week, a law student told me about her Chinese friend, who used to date an Indian boy. The parents of this boy found the relationship so objectionable that they used to lock him up to prevent him from meeting his girlfriend... I realised things have not changed very much since I left school. Acceptance of our differences remains a relevant issue.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 00:53:41 GMTWe refer to Dr Noel Chia Kok Hwee's letter, which was a response to our commentary on educating Singapore's children with special needs... Dr Chia is misguided in assuming that the child's parents know best what he or she needs (Felicity Crawford and Reuben Wong - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 00:43:18 GMT[Perpetuating Difficulties: Increasing Assistance And Communication Channels For The Elderly] The worrying problem of malnutrition is worrying... In recent times, elderly individuals are also increasingly struggling with psychological challenges - in terms of dealing with loneliness of family pressures - maintaining physical well-being and active lifestyles, as well as coping with community-based social problems.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 00:31:14 GMTWaiters who don't know the ingredients of the dishes, sales staff who can't use the register. S'pore really needs that multi-million dollar Customer Centric Initiative (Aimee Chan - CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 00:07:35 GMTSocial workers TODAY spoke to said industry conditions and support have improved over the years. But chief medical social worker Eva Chow of the NUH said: "More needs to be done not only to attract new talent but to make better effort to recognise and develop existing talents and experienced social workers who can give the critical contribution." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 22 Jul 2011 00:03:48 GMTWe need to hire more social workers: Chan Chun Singhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 23:58:58 GMT"the Govt decided that video recording would not be really effective in ensuring that statements were voluntarily given. Nor would video recording prevent allegations that the statements were given under some form of coercion. Indeed, as can be seen from the Ismil Kadar case, the allegations related to matters which could not have been video recorded" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 23:53:23 GMT[Ego hurt more grievous than grievous hurt] In Court No. 4 of the Subordinate Courts Complex today, I had cause to wonder... We have created a political culture where insulting the self-assigned status of rulers and their power structures is viewed more seriously than mayhem on streets and in coffeeshops.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 23:37:12 GMT[Offer an alternative better than nationalisation] MR GERALD Giam calls the Govt dogmatic for sticking to privatisation and profit ['Consider the economic reality of transport here']. Yet he and the Workers' Party are doggedly pursuing their transport nationalisation plan without offering the very economic algorithm he blames the Govt for ignoring (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 22:38:25 GMTMR GERALD Giam states that taxpayers already contribute to the basic infrastructure of the transport system and does not elaborate ["Consider the economic reality of transport here"]. Mr Giam also criticises the profit model which he says benefits only shareholders via dividend payouts (Daniel Yew - ST Forum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 22:35:11 GMTI applaud Mr Gerald Giam's timely commentary ['Consider the economic reality of transport here'] on the flaws of the current transport system. I, too, support the idea of a nationalised transport operator, especially for trains where there is no competition (Thomas Woon - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 22:30:59 GMTThe Workers' Party has decided not to accept HDB's offer to build offices for its Meet-the-People Sessions at void decks, citing uncertainty over the terms of usage of such offices, as well the financial burden of doing so (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 22:21:44 GMT[What a difference a month makes] Compared to about a month ago, the mood in the public housing market today could not have been any more different. The gloom and anxieties of 1st-time applicants for new HDB flats have now been considerably dispelled (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 22:15:22 GMT"We made good investment gains but when measured in the S'pore dollar, these gains were more than offset by the strength of the currency. The international purchasing power is unaffected by the strength of the S'pore dollar." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 21:57:45 GMTWhy S'pore is an iconic target for terrorists (Assoc Prof Bilveer Singh is acting head at the Centre of Excellence for National Security, S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, NTU - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 21:53:30 GMT[Are fare-card readers in order? -- Letter from Tan Kah Choo] .. [Who to approach when it happens? -- Letter from Koh Kah Huat] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 21:47:20 GMTSBS Transit seemed uninterested in addressing the issues until I gave feedback to PTC and LTA recently. Commuters are penalised if they pay the incorrect fares; why isn't SBS Transit penalised for overcharging? If there is a problem with the current fare system, SBS Transit should solve it, and not at the expense of the commuters (Letter from Jansen Loo - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 21:44:01 GMT["I have experienced the discomfort and frustrations that commuters faced because of the congestion, and the sometimes unreliable service and I share your desire to see improvements to our public transport." - PAP Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew] So will PTC approve the fare hikes?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 21:10:59 GMTThe current situation with regards to public transport - as well as certain other industries in S'pore - brings us the worst of both worlds. It combines the downsides of nationalisation [inefficiency, no incentive to improve service, no incentive to lower costs] with the downsides of privatisation [profiteering, attempting to reduce consumer surplus, focus on bottom line above all else] The Satay Clubhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 21:07:40 GMT[Singapore: Murdochian Democracy?] What keeps Singapore's ministers in line is not those million-dollar paychecks but the fact that they are scared to death of Lee Kuan Yew, who has shown no compunction whatsoever in jailing the odd minister who does stick his hand in somebody else's pockets (Asia Sentinel)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 16:00:50 GMTHow much weight should we give to such a comment by someone who is not an authority on public policy and who is embroiled in a corporate scandal that is related to the lack of good governance? S'poreans themselves, not some overseas media figure, should decide whether the present ministerial pay scale will continue to work for us (Letter from Lai Yew Chan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 15:57:50 GMT80-year-old Murdoch's comment during questioning by British MPs apparently brought about plenty of mumbling from those present, including someone who quipped derisively: "good luck in selling that to anyone here." A political science academic working in S'pore, Bridget Welsh, could see he was grasping at straws, "My sense is that Mr Murdoch was engaged in a defence and was using every example he could find." (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 08:43:58 GMT[Timing Is Everything] The hacking scandal in the U.K. is so toxic it closed down News of the World, claimed the jobs of 2 of Murdoch's top aides, and forced 2 senior British policemen to resign. And this is the person who is "praising" S'pore for paying top dollars .. normally the S'pore govt would be pleased but at this point in time, is it any surprise the govt has kept uncharacteristically quiet about Murdoch's praise? (Musings From the Lion City)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 06:15:50 GMT[The Long Road to the Istana] A supporter's special video presentation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 06:02:21 GMT[NTU student lashed out at Dr Tony Tan for 'twisting' his words] "Which one says we want to totally shut off foreigners? While we did say "Singaporeans first", we never said "Singaporeans only"! Why don't you dare to meet our complaints head-on? Why are you twisting our words and defending yourself like a coward, not daring to confront the complaints directly?"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 05:58:53 GMTIt would be naive to think the Presidency can remain beyond politics. My question: Is it possible to avoid the politicisation of our Presidency when the position is an elected one? Once you open up for voting, you are as good as opening Pandora's Box. What's left is trying to dissuade the political ghost from escaping the box (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 04:00:40 GMT[No concessions for disabled - but CEOs reap millions] I hope the PTC will come to its senses and realise that it is fast becoming a joke, especially if it approves the so-called 2.8 per cent "fare adjustment" the PTOs are asking for. How about we start with finally giving concessions to the disabled first?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 03:55:02 GMTSome foods you eat to stay alive, others you eat because not to would be a crime. Here are those foods worth traveling the world to gorge on (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 03:52:14 GMTDear Friends, My cartoon of Presidential hopeful, Mr. Tan Kin Lian. Cartoon of another potential candidate hopeful to draw : Mr. Tan Jee Say The field is getting too crowded and giving Dr. Tony Tan an unfair advantage over other Presidential hopefuls. Dr. Tony Tan is getting all the MSM coverage and has more public appearances than all the others combined. It is difficult to believe he is not endorsed or favoured by the PAP as claimed. It looks like Singaporeans are again being duped. Cheers Wing Leehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 02:20:33 GMTRespect our leaders, bond with the foreigners...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 01:28:16 GMTDoc lashes out at Philip Yeo for affecting his life (This comment was 1st posted on the thread 'Philip Yeo: My greatest fear now is that the Govt is terrified of the people')http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 01:25:46 GMTA country full of nut cases...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 01:19:09 GMTThe man to be the next EP will be decided by the PEC, by 3 wise men. They will pick the man.. Only then can S'poreans cast their vote. The 2nd myth is that the 3 men could only decide on whoever was deemed good enough, eligible, by someone else. This is the bigger myth that daft S'poreans totally forgotten. Who really decides who can be the EP? You tell me (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 01:13:13 GMTWhile I agree with Dr Tan's dismissal of a 'Singaporeans only' tertiary landscape ['Tony Tan: S'poreans first, but don't shut out talent'], I am befuddled by his perception that S'poreans are demanding this. On the contrary, what S'poreans are infuriated by are govt and local university measures that excessively favour foreign 'talent' for admission (Adam Liew - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:58:13 GMT[Ex-Teacher: Discrimination of S'poreans starts from secondary school] So this is Dr Tony Tan's 'Singaporean First' policy - helping China and ASEAN countries nurture their students using S'pore taxpayers' monies?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:46:37 GMTIn a speech made at this year's Shangri-La Dialogue on 4 June, US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates disclosed US plans to deploy new littoral combat ships to S'pore. What is notable is that they would be the 1st US military vessels to be permanently stationed in S'pore (East Asia Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:36:12 GMTMurdoch hails Singapore model but local netizens disagree.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:28:22 GMTS'pore-based political science don Bridget Welsh said: "My sense is that Mr Murdoch was engaged in a defence and was using every example he could find." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:24:02 GMTTime for all bosses to be part of the solution.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:18:23 GMTWith S'poreans increasingly turning to renting out their apartments for extra income, more disputes are flaring up between landlords and tenants, according to lawyers and property agents. And it is not only the landlords who are giving their tenants headaches (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:16:07 GMT[Talk to bosses on alternative work arrangements, ministry advises] There are statutory protections to ensure that all workers, including security officers, do not work excessively long hours: 'Why seniors end up as security guards' by Mrs Joanna Han. Under the Employment Act, the daily legal limit for work is 12 hours (Farah Abdul Rahim, Corporate Communications - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 21 Jul 2011 00:05:34 GMT[Employment Plight of Our Seniors] I refer to today's ST Forum article 'Why seniors end up as security guards'. My heart goes out to Mrs Joanna Han's mother. Mrs Han's sharing reminded me of a conversation I once had with a Cambodian business associate. He asked me, "S'pore is a rich country but why are there so many elderly people working as food centre cleaners?" He went on...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 23:59:55 GMTFor the past 3 years, my 69-year-old mother has tried 3 times to secure a simple job, slicing fish, with NTUC FairPrice. Each time, the interviewer, upon finding out her age, turned her down. I shop at FairPrice daily and have encountered cashiers and fish packers who are foreigners and cannot execute a simple exchange of goods or tell me where the shrimps are, without help from their local colleagues (Joanna Han - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 23:58:01 GMT[Fish-cutters must be physically fit, replies FairPrice] We thank Mrs Joanna Han for her feedback: 'Why seniors end up as security guards' (CEO S'pore, NTUC FairPrice - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 23:54:20 GMT[What S'pore must do in the race for foreign talent] What is going up - the cost of living here and the [Sing$] exchange rate for outsiders - must come down, if S'pore is to retain its competitive cutting edge (Paul Endacott)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 23:47:16 GMT[Stop employment pass abuses] I was appalled: "Foreigners offer to 'pay' for employment passes". How pervasive are such practices? How is policing of approved work permits done to prevent such errant practices .. were the workers caught due to active policing by MOM, or through tip-offs? Can MOM disclose the number of employment practice offences, and what trends it is seeing? (Ong Chiew Leong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 23:35:52 GMTThe 2nd part of the series, photojounalist Kate Hodal delves into the lives of a dock worker from Myanmar and a construction worker from Madras (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 23:28:06 GMT[Why he dubs himself 'part-time postman'] As an HDB resident of Blk 255, AMK Ave 4, I encounter wrong mail deliveries regularly - "With 2.8m deliveries a day, human error is unavoidable: SingPost". Every 3 months, I perform the role of part-time postman... (Dennis Tan Seow Koon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 22:35:45 GMT[Unhygienic practices rampant in food centres here] HERE are instances of unhygienic practices at foodcourts and hawker centres.. (Florence Goh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 22:28:22 GMT[Let's focus on love and kindness] It is not uncommon to hear my wife, who is 8 months pregnant, lamenting about people not giving up seats for her when she takes public transport. It indicates a problem deeply rooted in our society.. I believe it is because of the way the country is managed (Ken Koh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 22:24:45 GMT[The blandness of sameness in the estates] Walking around the heartlands now, you can't help but feel one thing - they all look and feel the same. Sameness is the one thing which kills creativity and inspiration - the 2 things we desperately need in this city which rushes head-on, sometimes blindly, into materialism and mediocrity. I would like to suggest...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 22:19:34 GMTThe climate status is in unpredictable times and hopefully, our systems will be able to drain off the excess rain water. However, if a flood is inevitable, ample preparations can be made to lessen the impact of the flood on public health (Kelvin Teo - NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 21:57:25 GMT[The Great Transport Debate to Nowhere] While I welcome the debate on public transport, I think both sides have missed some of the most crucial points. The noise of political rhetoric has drowned out some common sense. If WP is guilty of being naïve and using faulty assumptions, the govt is guilty of something that could be worse - humbug.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 21:47:09 GMTSaid the Transport Minister: "I have experienced the discomfort and frustrations that commuters faced because of the congestion and the sometimes unreliable service, and I share your desire to see improvements to our public transport." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 21:40:14 GMT[Accommodate needs of the 'silent' in transport fare hike] What a caring letter, I thought, when I read "They just want to earn a living". It articulated the impact of a public transport fare increase on the intellectually disabled who make the effort to improve themselves within the constraints they face. I wish to add to the public conversation on the proposed fare hike...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 21:31:32 GMTKenya's President Mwai Kibaki sets on fire nearly 5 tonnes of African ivory worth US$16m that was seized in Singapore nearly 10 years ago (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 20:57:10 GMTA European Union watchdog spelt out Wednesday safety measures firms must take to limit risks from ultra fast share trading, stopping short of actual curbs. The European Securities and Markets Authority [ESMA] said high frequency [HFT] and other forms of automated trading raised risks that need addressing (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 20:52:59 GMT[Upgrading to Lion Means Embracing the iPad] David Pogue reviews the latest Apple upgrade (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 20:41:07 GMTThe Federal Reserve is actively preparing for the possibility that United States could default as a deadline for raising the govt's US$14.3 trillion borrowing limit looms, a top Fed policymaker said Wednesday (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 20:30:56 GMT["This quote was inaccurate..." - PAP MP Vikram Nair] Do you believe he was 'misquoted' by Associated Press?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 14:45:11 GMT[Production on unemployment with CNA is off] Dear Mr Gilbert Goh .. I will send you another email by today, Sir, to let you whether we are still going with this topic (Anna Karenina, Producer, CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 14:31:14 GMT[International Cooperative and Mutual Insurance Federation] I was chairman of ICMIF from 1992 to 1997. According to its website, ICMIF now has 210 members from 70 countries. These members employ a total of 260,000 people and manage assets of USD 1.5 trillion..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 13:46:22 GMT[PAP supporter Toh Cheng Seong accuses Tan Jee Say of rolling out 'populist' schemes in ST Forum] Better to have a populist President than an 'inactive' one who keeps saying 'it is the govt's responsibility'. Don't you think so?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 13:36:39 GMT[Where is the new normal in S'pore politics?] Presidential hopeful Dr Tony Tan will do himself -- and S'pore politics -- a huge favor if he stops accepting invitations from organisations queuing up to ask him to talk at their functions.. these events give Dr Tan an unfair advantage. As long as man-made hurdles like this exist, let's not even start talking about the new normal in S'pore politics (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 13:28:36 GMTWith 6 weeks to go before the 31 August deadline for the PE, I would not be surprised if we see the msm generating more reports that are designed to present Dr Tony Tan as the president for the people, especially when the official campaign period begins (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 13:19:39 GMTNo, I am not talking about the breakthrough of Aljunied GRC. Rather, I would like to say something about how returning Opposition candidates react to changes and, in particular, Chen Show Mao and Kenneth Jeyaretnam. Perhaps, in a small way using the Book of Changes [Yi Jing] to explain the 'timing' and 'positioning' of how different each had reacted to the situation (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 12:59:25 GMTHeard from a netizen that PAP MP Lee Kuan Yew seldom attend his Meet-the-People session which is held by Indranee Rajah instead. Any Tanjong Pagar resident here like to verify?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 12:47:46 GMTRupert Murdoch was quoted to have told the UK Govt they should emulate S'pore in paying millions to their political leaders. I think this is a wise thing to say (Reader's Comment: Murdoch knows only half the S'pore lesson. In S'pore, his position will be taken over by an ex-Minister. The Brits should learn that too - MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 12:44:24 GMT80-year-old media tycoon and CEO of News Corp, Rupert Murdoch, praised Singapore as a model country, saying it is temptation-free because of its high ministerial pay [400 readers' comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 12:37:07 GMTDear SDP: My name is Stanley Tow. I live in Toronto, Canada. I was born in S'pore in 1966, and I still hold my S'pore NRIC. Our laws implied that to have turned 16 while in another country and making the adult decision to remain in another country was tantamount to committing a crime against S'pore..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 11:25:27 GMT[A foreigner I will always remember] When I was a kid, my parents would make regular trips to our parish church. With 12 kids to feed, my parents always had to struggle to make ends meet and we had to depend on the charity of the church.. bags of rice, sugar and assorted goodies. When you are poor, these foodstuffs are a godsend. The main culprit of such compassion was the parish priest, Father Anthony Schotte..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 11:21:38 GMT[videos] Tan Kin Lian answers 5 questions from supporters.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 04:41:33 GMTThink of all the advantages of doing away with the presidency. I can think of all the good things and nothing bad. If we are so preoccupied with high offices or monarchies, it may be more romantic to instal a royal family (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 04:38:24 GMT[A spanner in the works?] What are the chances of Tan Jee Say getting the COE?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 04:34:14 GMT[Tony Tan: Graduate Mother Scheme was 'unfair'] Faced with a potential massive public backlash over his past association with the repressive and elitist PAP regime, presidential hopeful Dr Tony Tan is now busy trying to whitewash history with the help of the state media. Straits Times' Tessa Wong has been Tony Tan's unofficial spin doctor..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 04:29:01 GMT[Affordability of housing] I have made some changes to the paper. The revised paper can be found here. It is important to keep to the benchmark of 5 years of family income for the property that you buy. If you pay too much, it will eat into your retirement savings - and should be avoided. If property prices are too high, wait for it to fall, or buy a smaller property!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 04:24:27 GMT[The yearly rush for popular primary schools] We complain about S'pore's education system being stressful but we are unable to let go of an overdependence on using performance at high-stake exams as sole measure of success. Hopefully over time, we can understand success beyond academics.. can accept different routes of education and different forms of assessments beyond high-stake standardised tests.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 03:43:41 GMT[Man Challenged Court's Maintenance Order for Child Borne Out of Wedlock] Good day to you Gilbert: I needed some advice from you urgently. I used to have a local female friend and we entered into a sexual relationship. Ours was not a boyfriend/girlfriend type of relationship and..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 03:39:58 GMTJustice, where art thou in Singapore...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 01:30:10 GMT[Philip Yeo, why pick on SG bond-breakers but dare not touch FT ones?] Are Singaporeans easy to bully?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 01:19:42 GMTTony Tan said the Govt should "continue to monitor carefully the proportion of foreign students in our educational institutions... and S'poreans are main beneficiaries of our education policy." We don't know if his sentiments shared are that of an aspiring presidential candidate or that of the establishment. We do know that some bright sparks may not be bothered to wait to find out (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 01:12:52 GMTEven local polytechnic lecturers are being discriminated (This comment was first posted on the thread "NUS Provost seeks 'Foreign Academic' who commented on TRE")http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 01:08:25 GMTI was reading the discussion on how the 3 universities have been colonized by foreigners. There seems to be a pre occupation and adoration of foreigners from academic staff to students. Some said it got to do with the rankings. The more foreign or alien elements there are, the higher will be the rankings for the universities (MYSingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 01:02:03 GMT[Where is the money, TOC & TRE?] It would not be unreasonable to suggest that both TOC and TRE owe a comprehensive explanation to their donors, which should be done regularly. One can only hope that this will follow soon.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 00:42:18 GMT[Has "Project Work" In Junior Colleges Outlived Its Usefulness?] "Project Work" is simply an academic endeavor envisioned and instituted with genuinely-constructive purposes in mind; unfortunately, the road to hell is paved with good intentions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 00:35:31 GMTCan China's economy absorb six million graduates? (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 00:11:02 GMT[The polarised world of politics] Politicians of every stripe have 2 bad habits. Firstly, they think that those who don't belong to any political party are incapable of having a single political thought. Secondly, when non-politicians think of a good populist idea, politicians of all stripes rush to hijack it (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 20 Jul 2011 00:05:44 GMT[Freedom from those democracy cliches] And so when LKY's long-ruling party garnered "only" 60 percent or so of the total votes, he felt the winds of change blowing in his face and retired from govt for a long-deserved rest. His country now moves slowly toward a genuine 2-party system, but don't hold your breath and think it will become Switzerland or Sweden next year. In some sense, S'pore will always be S'pore. (China.org)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 23:58:08 GMTThey crafted an opening statement for the media mogul that included a killer sound bite -- "This is the most humble day of my life" -- only to have the parliamentary committee deny him the chance to deliver it. That appeared to shake the 80-year-old Murdoch.. (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 23:52:41 GMT[Puzzled by Tan Jee Say's presidential promises] I am curious about the reasons behind Mr Tan Jee Say's motivation. S'poreans may want a president who is not merely a rubber stamp for govt policies, but it is just as important that we do not elect someone who rolls out populist schemes to appeal to the masses.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 23:18:32 GMT[Revisiting the decision to privatise our power stations] Why did Temasek sell our strategic national assets to foreigners? What happened to liberalisation of our electricity market through the EVS? Utilities are a great source of steady income especially when EMA guarantees profit by fixing prices -- does it make sense for us to give these profits away to foreign entities?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 23:13:19 GMTPAP MP Vikram Nair says a quote attributed to him at a recent forum was "inaccurate" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 23:07:39 GMT[?"I think the govt is presently reviewing all the policies. I believe it is not the responsibility of the President to try to suggest changes in policies. That is the job of the govt, not the President." --- PAP-endorsed presidential candidate Dr Tony Tan] Then what are we paying him $4 million dollars a year for?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 23:00:52 GMTVIDEO: Tony Tan says it is not the President's responsibility to suggest changes to policies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 22:55:42 GMT[New social compact for MPs ] I refer to responses to my earlier suggestion that more meaningful ways be found in citizen-MP relations, particularly on MPs as guests of honour in community functions ("Let's not stand on ceremony for MPs"). Mr Wee is keen to defend the system. I respect his view. I, however, would like to see not only more meaningful ways to do so, but also for us to address the larger picture..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 22:48:31 GMTI read with concern the remarks of former military psychologist Stanley Chua's report ['Recruit tried to swim out of Tekong camp']. I hope and believe SAF does not share his sentiments. Ultimately, even if parents know how their sons cope with difficulties or stress in school or civilian life, the onus cannot be placed on them, especially those who have never experienced military training, to anticipate how their boys will react to stress or difficulties faced in BMT (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 22:34:13 GMTMore than 100 people in Turkey, South Korea and Greece have been charged in recent weeks in inquiries into players and officials throwing soccer games. How can international soccer's governing body FIFA restore confidence in the game? How can nations and other organizations help to prevent match fixing? Three experts share their views (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 22:23:33 GMTTHE Govt's move to use sports as a platform to bond the community is a good initiative. May I suggest S'pore Pools take the 1st step by excluding S'pore team from its betting list? We cannot encourage true bonding if S'poreans are putting bets on S'pore to lose; even if they were to bet on S'pore to win, it would dilute the true meaning of supporting one's team (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 22:18:31 GMTLast year, the fare for senior citizens with a concession card was increased from 68 cents to 86 cents, a whopping 25 per cent .. can we plead for magnanimity to spare senior citizens from yet another squeeze since the increase last year should cover 8.9 years, using 2.8 per cent maximum as yardstick? (AMCIS Seniors Lld - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 22:12:11 GMT[They just want to earn a living] MY INTENT in writing this letter is 2-fold: To highlight the financial drag of a transport fare hike on the intellectually disabled, and highlight the overall plight of this group of people (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 21:50:09 GMT"If there is no inflation and no wage increase for the year, the formula allows PTC to impose a fare reduction of 1.5 per cent on the operators. Hence, they know they have to improve productivity and innovate. Such measures have helped to increase their revenue [and hence profits] through non-fare sources" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 21:47:16 GMTMr Tan Kin Lian speaks to supporters about the campaign strategy, with the entry of a 4th contestant. Watch this video..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 16:08:59 GMT['Singaporeans first' is different from saying 'Singaporeans only'... S'pore should not make it too difficult for international talent to come here." -- PAP-endorsed presidential candidate Dr Tony Tan trying to defend his pro-foreigner education policies] Did Singaporeans ever demand foreigners to be banned from studying in local universities?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 16:05:20 GMTTony Tan: 'Singaporeans first', not 'Singaporeans only' education policy (308 Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 15:59:24 GMT[Temasek Holdings renamed its annual report to Temasek Review Emeritus?] Quite funny. TRE should just remove 'temasek' from its name to save taxpayers' monies. Google must be laughing its way to the bank.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 15:56:33 GMT[A clarifying tale of 2 politicians from the legal sector] It is heartening to know that the dominant leadership's deliberate disenfranchisement of the alternative media is now a thing of the past but it would appear that the leadership in power has miles to go in its handling of adverse publicity in the alternative media.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 15:33:50 GMT[Smoking out public service priorities] These examples above raise the questions: How are decisions made? What are the priorities that guide our public service?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 15:30:38 GMTAre they still there? This is the question about our financial reserves that S'poreans have kept asking, but to which answers don't seem to be forthcoming. Below is a compilation of business ventures and investments carried out by the 2 funds that have gone awry and the amounts of money that were involved. Needless to say the list is not exhaustive (TR FaceBook)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 15:27:35 GMTPrices for new BTO flats not falling: Minister Khawhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 15:22:01 GMT"The campaign issue is more on what kind of president the people of Singapore want. So I'll be focusing more on the duties of the president, and what the president can do for the people".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 06:13:42 GMT[Tony Tan: S'poreans first not S'poreans only] Dr Tan has come under criticism online recently for his policies during his term as Education Minister. Detractors have criticised Dr Tan for pursuing a policy that increased the universities' intake of foreign students instead of allowing in more local students.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 06:05:29 GMT[Tony Tan (or his admin) deletes critical comments on his Facebook] While Lianhe Zaobao journalist Yew Lun Tian was quick to castigate Mr Tan Kin Lian for deleting comments on his Facebook, she chose to turn a blind eye to Tony Tan's act.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 06:00:49 GMTWrit of Election for Presidential Election expected to be issued anytime from August 3.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 05:55:29 GMT[3 scenarios in the coming EP contest (Revision of the earlier posting on 25 June 2011) ] - [Dr Ang Yong Guan's Page]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 05:47:42 GMTMany customers are infuriated at receiving 'while you were out' cards telling them to collect missed parcels from a post office even though they were in when the postman called. Some customers suspected postmen of deliberately leaving packages at the post office because they could not cope with heavy loads and long rounds (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 05:47:15 GMTCheck out Tan Kin Lian's official campaign website!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 05:28:19 GMTTan Jee Say launches Presidential Election 2011 website.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 05:25:07 GMT[Visit to Bukit Timah Railway Station and a Walk with Tan Kin Lian on the KTM Railway Track ] - I joined President hopeful, Mr Tan Kin Lian; for a walk on the KTM Railway Track .....See whom we met on the track. [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 03:06:41 GMT[Did Dr Tony Tan intimidate the NUS School of Architecture in 1981?] On the "Marxist" people detained in 1987 was lawyer Teo Soh Lung. She has come forward with the following incident involving Dr Tony Tan in her FB. I was shocked when I read her FB posting and decided to do some checking..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 02:09:26 GMTThe Minister maintains, prices of HDB's new flats are typically pegged to prevailing resale prices but are discounted. That was the Mah folly, and it looks like Khaw is continuing the saga. "Pricing a flat is quite tricky as there are many factors at play". Please, spare us the trickery, what the people want is honest to goodness transparent accounting. Those who prefer sleight of hand have already been burnt at the casinos (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 01:58:08 GMT[Affordabily of housing] A home buyer should not pay more than 5 years of the family income for a property. This article explains the key issues in your financial planning..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 01:46:33 GMTIn Malaysia, is anyone listening at all to the grassroots? (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 01:43:01 GMTDr CHANDRA MUZAFFAR: 'Finding the right balance in human rights' (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 01:17:50 GMTThe United Nations has set up its global training and service centre for IPSAS in M'sia. The country beat a list of UN member states from Latin America, East and Southern Africa, Eastern Europe and Asia for the honour. M'sian Treasury sec-gen said the centre would be staffed mostly by Malaysians (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:57:43 GMT[Tan Kin Lian answers questions from supporters] The answers to these questions are given in the videos uploaded to the campaign website..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:51:24 GMTSupport 'Temasek Review Emeritus'; Add this PicBadge to your profile picture at PicBadges.com!..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:47:16 GMTKeeping in mind the interest of the 60%...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:31:48 GMTI refer to Ms Ng Wee Chew's letter ['Police methods'] on police handling of young people who distributed fliers for loan sharks. How they treated the young people in this case was fair and firm. Parents must remember that a police station is not a kindergarten or day-care centre.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:26:45 GMTMs Ng Wee Chew ['Police methods'] criticised the manner in which young part-timers, some barely teenagers, were handled by police in a mass arrest for distribution of fliers for loan sharks. Some parents are overly protective of their children. The police have done an excellent job in nipping the loan-shark problem in the bud (Arthur Lim - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:21:32 GMTWe refer to Mr Anthony Lim's letter ['Tactics were similar to those of loan sharks']. As we are unable to assess from these facts alone, we would be grateful if Mr Lim can contact the Registry of Moneylenders (Insolvency and Public Trustee's Office - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:10:07 GMT[ARTICLES OF LAW by Bhag Singh] Following an accident, driver of the other car was charged in court where he pleaded guilty. However, when our reader asked to be compensated for expenses incurred by him, the other party wanted to pay only a part of amount claimed. Our reader wants to know why he should not be entitled to full amount he is claiming (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 19 Jul 2011 00:00:05 GMTI am responding to Ministry of Law's letter, "Help for homegrown law firms to go abroad". In years past, that part of Govt which oversaw the legal profession fostered a select group of lawyers and law firms.. The private sector, impressed by their connections and success, became their clientele, thus giving these few individuals and firms a commanding lead within the profession (Letter from Arthur Loke - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 22:35:25 GMTWe refer to Mr Chue's letter ['Website glitch: Why such a long wait for refund?']. We apologise for the difficulties experienced by Mr Chue's son. We also regret that our customer service officer had wrongly informed him that it would take 6 to 8 weeks for the refund to take effect (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 22:30:35 GMTPhotojounalist Kate Hodal captures the life of an out-of-work Bangladeshi worker and a domestic helper from the Philippines (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 22:24:45 GMTI refer to recent letters criticising errant taxi drivers who refuse to pick up passengers on the street. I am a taxi driver, in my mid-30s, and was previously a manager. I have been driving for 2 years and to my surprise.. Critics should put themselves in our shoes and try being a cabby (Letter from Steve Wang - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 22:17:45 GMTA 30-year loan presumes the income earners of a household would be able to stay employed till near retirement age. But given S'pore's open economy, job losses as a result of external shocks are inevitable. MND should consider defining affordability with a shorter loan period, say, 20 or even 15 years (Alvin Tan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 22:13:28 GMTMinister Khaw Boon Wan said the Govt will hold back next month's BTO launch and combine the units with the projects slated to come on stream in Sept. Nicholas Mak noted that Mr Khaw's idea of combining launches was an innovative solution. But he said he was unsure of its effectiveness.. Colin Tan said combined launches will help to better gauge demand (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 21:57:51 GMT"Consumers sometimes do not know enough, and when consumers do not know enough... They get rushed into buying or selling decisions. And of course, I will be very mindful, especially when info is market sensitive". Property developers welcome Mr Khaw's assurance that any market sensitive announcement will be communicated officially. "It is good the focus is on the official channel" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 21:50:40 GMT[Tan Kin Lian believes there will be a contest in the PE] Presidential hopeful Mr Tan Kin Lian believes it is unlikely to be a shoo-in for the PAP-endorsed candidate, like in the past. In a posting made on his Facebook today, Mr Tan wrote...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 14:17:06 GMT[A suggestion - affordable HDB flats] Hi Mr Tan: I wish to offer my view to make HDB flats more affordable to Singaporeans..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 13:29:23 GMTFollowing our breaking story on the asking price of $900,000 for an executive apartment in Pasir Ris, PropertyGuru received an exclusive tip-off from a property agent representing Knight Frank (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 13:26:40 GMTYou can easily spot a fake.. Heng Swee Keat told parents: "The values that MOE and schools are trying to impart will be the values of care and concern for others, values of integrity, values of resilience". Then there was his take on the brutes at Bedok Police Station.. Heng blindly defended the rogue police, instead of taking the side of his young charges (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 13:23:01 GMT[What is at stake?] I regard next month's presidential race as Round 2 of the fight between PAP and the people. The outcome will determine the character of the nation in next decade or two. Ideally, we should elect the candidate who most sympathizes with aspirations of the people. What is important is to ensure the candidate who represents PAP's choice does not win more than 60% of the votes.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 10:34:45 GMT[PM Lee: only lip service over pledges at swearing-in ceremony?] When citizens cannot even gather peacefully to drink coffee and enjoy the right to privacy without the police turning up, PM Lee's pledge about a fair and just society sounds hollow, isn't it?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 10:22:10 GMT[Lim Wee Kiat] After hiding from public spotlight for nearly a month, disgraced PAP MP Dr Lim Wee Kiat finally emerged out of his 'hole' to 'engage' Singaporeans. In an interview with state media, Dr Lim said "govt agencies will now have to show they are more open to suggestions and consultation."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 10:13:54 GMT[Manage your own life annuity] Instead of buying a life annuity, it may be more advantageous for a retiree to manage his own savings to provide a better payout. Read this article..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 10:08:32 GMT[Elected President] I have heard and read much about one of the Tans - Tony Tan. Today, I heard a strange story about him and I wonder if anyone can confirm if the story is true. It took place 30 years ago, in November 1981 to be precise... I cannot believe what I heard.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 05:51:41 GMT[Elected President has sufficient powers to check on the PAP under the Constitution] Contrary to PAP's claims that the President has 'limited' powers, he actually has the power to dismantle the PAP's instruments of power as stipulated under the S'pore Constitution, provided he is allowed to exercise them.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 05:44:12 GMT[George Yeo For President] Time is on his side.....http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 05:40:40 GMT[Are we a nation?] Whenever I look at my red passport and the word 'nationality' pops out , I would wonder how many of our citizens are truely S'pore nationals. Or have we abandoned what truly defines us, for the pursuit of material gains and the sake of "progress" when recently, such "progress" seems to be the case of concern and degradation to some?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 05:36:13 GMTCivil society and NGOs know that freedom of speech and freedom of assembly is a potent tool in their work to bring about a free and fair election system without which nothing changes. Just as significantly, M'sian opposition parties know that they must do the necessary, not just the popular. In S'pore, we too need people who will make the sacrifices, not just parliamentarians who go along with the autocratic system. We too need leaders, not just politicians (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 05:29:49 GMT[Adequate savings for retirement] Here are some tips for all Singaporeans on how to get adequate savings for retirement..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 05:24:21 GMT[Elderly in foreign nursing homes - something is not right] Would just like to add more thoughts to the article I wrote for Yahoo: "Singaporeans dying away from home" .. As PM Lee and his predecessor have said, we need to re-focus on the heartware. And when we see our elderly having to seek shelter elsewhere, it is a clear sign that something is amiss - and that this must be put right.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 05:21:52 GMT[Singapore PMET - LTA Projects filled with many cheap foreign professionals] Hi Gilbert: I was a Contract Manager (age 60) for an international Japanese contractor constructing the LTA Circle Line 4 and 5. I was shocked that there were so many Myanmese and Filipino workers employed as quantity surveyors in the company. This project has completed and hence my employment came to an end since January 2011...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 05:17:23 GMTTan Kin Lian attending Halal Food Expo (Album - July 15, 2011).http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 01:13:52 GMTOf meritocracy in Sink-a-poor...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:58:21 GMT[Affordable HDB flats] The MND Minister faced the challenge of bringing down the price of new HDB flats to an affordable level, without causing a crash of the property market that can bring dire consequence to the economy. Here are some issues to be considered...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:57:00 GMTLeaving your meal in the chef's hands can be a gamble or an unexpected reward: Give it a go at these 5 omakase restaurants (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:50:00 GMT[Reliance upon Volunteers per se is not a Panacea for Nursing Home woes] The respective agencies should be cognisant of need to boost and harmonise volunteer capacities, heighten family involvement whenever possible, and simultaneously increase channels for communication and engagement.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:46:50 GMTPersonally I think we should speak both languages and bear constantly in mind that Singlish is not English "as she is spoke" by others. The more we think of the 2 as different languages, the happier we'll be (Asymptote)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:44:04 GMT[A view on our public transport service]. Mr Tan: Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew says that while a nationalised public transport system might seem attractive, it has serious implications. Personally, I don't disagree with him as a coin has two sides, any system also its strengths and weaknesses. The question here is..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:32:29 GMTAfter 2 months of listening, there are signs that S'pore or the PAP is moving back to the origin, i.e. back to square one. In the past weeks, news about transport, housing, education, staff support, CPF, economy and political development are indicating the movements of back to the past. The first one is 'Back to 1965' (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:18:28 GMTWatch this animated GIF I did for a preview of things to come.. (alvinology)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:16:10 GMT(China actor) Tang Guoqiang bears an uncanny resemblance to Mao Zedong that has to be seen to be believed, and you come away loving the guy and forgetting the millions who starved to death.. Will Tony Leung have similar success in playing PAP supremo Lee Kuan Yew? The HK actor has starred in roles lusting after ladies on celluloid, but can he exude an unbridled lust for power? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:11:06 GMTI refer to Assoc Prof Hussin Mutalib's letter ['Let's not stand on ceremony for MPs']. Despite the uncomplimentary comments, many new MPs are eager and happy to serve. I applaud our MPs, especially the younger ones like Mr Alex Yam (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 18 Jul 2011 00:02:13 GMTI disagree with Assoc Prof Hussin Mutalib's suggestion ['Let's not stand on ceremony for MPs']. Imagine PM attending a community event in his capacity as an MP, and walking in when the audience members are not all present, or when they loiter and chat, oblivious to his arrival. In treating politicians more like servants, we may well get it wrong on principle about etiquette and good manners (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 23:56:21 GMTThanks for "Time for action on home loan rates?" by Mr Colin Tan. Since Sing$ is pegged to a basket of selected G20 currencies - which includes US$ and euro - this implies that raising property asset prices through Govt Land Sales is most beneficial for S'pore. Without this, the valuation of S'pore's reserves would have been eroded rapidly.. (Letter from William Tay - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 23:46:27 GMT[Public transport - public corporation or competitive model?] Should public transport be operated through a nationalized public corporation, as proposed by WP, or through a competitive model? The current model, involving 2 large PLCs operating the trains and the buses, does not seem to fit into either model.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 23:39:35 GMT[The improvement of productivity and service starts with competition] Because we have no comparable alternatives, our public transport system is a monopoly. S'poreans have to accept poor service standards and price hikes... maximum number of people squeezed into trains and buses (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 23:32:28 GMTI agree with Minister Lui Tuck Yew's comment that Workers' Party's proposal to nationalise transport companies is not feasible ... the Govt should consider having a social enterprise run the transport system ... it is important for the Govt to be in the driver's seat and be in control of the situation (Patrick Tan - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 23:20:33 GMT[Why fare adjustment formula should be reviewed] I support the call by Mr Cedric Foo, chairman of the GPC for Transport, and the views of Mr Leong Sze Hian. The Govt and the PTC should be mindful that public transport companies do not operate in a truly "open" market (Kang Sing Fong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 22:36:34 GMTFor the S'pore system to truly be for all, those with disabilities must not be allowed to fall through the cracks (Dr Reuben Wong is an Asst Prof with the Department of Political Science at NUS. Felicity Crawford is an Asst Prof of Special Education at Wheelock College in Boston and in the Early Childhood Educational Leadership Program at Wheelock College, S'pore) TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 22:30:43 GMT[Holistic approach to ease doctor shortage] Dr Paulin Tay Straughan: 'Pay hike alone can't solve doctor shortage' .. Dr Ho Hua Sze: 'Ex-govt doctor says...' .. These are valid concerns (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 22:21:59 GMTI refer to SingPost's reply ['With 2.8m deliveries a day, human error is unavoidable'] to Mr Robert Tan's ['No word on late mail probe promise']. SingPost has sole access to HDB residents' locked letterboxes to deliver such fliers, and the revenue generated from such a monopoly service should be enough to warrant a separate unit to carry out such deliveries. The relevant authorities should stop SingPost from combining the delivery.. (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 22:15:18 GMT[Tan Jee Say the Master Tactician] In hedging their bets, PAP is probably prepared to tolerate Dr Tan Cheng Bock and even Mr Tan Kin Lian as President if things do not go their way. I do not however think that they will be able accept Mr Tan Jee Say as President. We can only imagine what the members of the PEC must now be saying during their meetings.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 21:55:17 GMT[My response to Tan Jee Say's presidential bid] As an opposition supporter, I would be happy to see a candidate like Mr Tan Jee Say or Mr Tan Kin Lian get elected because he would be a President who is very far removed from the PAP.. It would be great if both parties came to a gentleman's agreement that one of them would pull out, if either or both are awarded the COE.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 21:46:27 GMT[More than meets the eye in Jee Say presidential bid?] While his bid will help address the desire of many S'poreans for a "non-PAP President...", it will also give him the platform he needs to eventually hold political office. The sum total of this could well be that his place in Parliament in 2016 would be more or less secured.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 21:42:02 GMT[Why Tan Jee Say's presidency bid makes his previous work incomplete] Tan Jee Say is at a crossroad where he must decide between championing for increased transparency and accountability in the way our reserves are deployed, or complete the construction of his economic plan which he has envisioned and sought endorsement from distinguished personality Sir Butler.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 21:32:37 GMT[Letter to ST's Tessa Wong: You are a disgrace to journalism!] Dear Tessa Wong: You wrote an article "praising" Tony Tan (i.e, your SPH Chairman until recently), for his "strongly independent mind". To support your case, you wrote that Tony Tan stood up to PM on the graduate mothers' scheme in the 1980s. TRE has just published this article which completely debunked your assertion.. (from BT Kojak)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 21:11:15 GMT[Tony Tan wants LKY to keep working for GIC] Tony Tan gave beloved Lee a strong mandate just before announcing his candidacy for President..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 21:01:06 GMT[NUS President: Nathan is a 'great' man who accomplished 'much' in many areas] When you are on the side of the right party, even an 'inactive' man can be turned into a 'great' man.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:56:04 GMT[PAP Govt : We can't run public transport efficiently... ] I would go even further than WP's "cost recovery" model. If you can drastically improve quality of life of S'poreans by accepting some operational losses that can be recovered by using the massive gains in the COE system, you can create much more "net happiness" and lower the demand for cars... an aspiration that cannot be met for most families in S'pore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:38:29 GMTThe profits of MRT and SBS over the yearshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:35:59 GMT13,920 Yahoo! users, or 94 per cent of respondents to Yahoo! Singapore's three-day poll, indicated that transport services provided by both SBS Transit and SMRT has had little improvement over the years, despite increasing their fares a number of times (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:33:35 GMT[Lui Tuck Yew: PTC will 'moderate' demands by SBS and SMRT to raise fares] How does he know PTC will 'moderate' them when it is supposedly still studying? Is this a Freudian slip that PTC is just another toothless agency controlled by PAP?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:21:24 GMTAfter a search of the Internet for nursing homes in Johor Baru, they shortlisted several and finally decided on one. The siblings paid a visit to the home earlier this year and made the decision to place their father there. It would cut their financial obligations by some 60 percent, not an insignificant amount for the siblings who aren't financially well-off (Andrew Loh, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:16:09 GMT[Who are the Successful Ones?] Minister Khaw Boon Wan elaborated on who the successful applicants in the January to March 2011 BTO exercises are.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 17 Jul 2011 20:08:07 GMTIn 1999, someone suggested Insurance Corporation of Singapore to merge with NTUC Income. Tan Kin Lian's reply: "We are a cooperative society, which has the objective of giving the best possible return to our policyholders. It is difficult for us to merge with any other commercial company that is aimed at increasing profit for shareholders. There is a conflict of objectives." - Siow Li Sen, The Business Times, 5 Oct 99.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 23:53:25 GMTThere is no "perfect world where all problems have been solved, or can be solved to everyone's satisfaction. Solving real world problems involves trade-offs, providing benefits for the most number of people and minimising the number and pain of those who will be adversely affected by the solutions." (So a good president is one who will not interfere - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 23:49:43 GMT[Increase in property tax] Dear Mr Tan: My Annual Value has increased by 17% in less than 1 year and I am puzzled as to how IRAS derived the number (Thian TC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 23:30:33 GMTDPM Tharman said the govt will consult stakeholders and understand the ground feel when it looks into the labor movement's decision to review CPF contribution rate of older workers. For S'porean workers over 50, CPF rate is cut to 30 per cent. And it drops further to 11.5 per cent once you turn 65 (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 23:24:33 GMTTan Kin Lian answers questions from supporters : " Why should Singaporeans vote for Tan Kin Lian"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 14:19:11 GMTThe PE looks set to be held in August with the Writ of Election probably issued after the National Day celebrations. It beginning to look like the probable election date is going to be 27 August, similar to the date of the last PE in 2005 (although it turned out to be a walkover). This will certainly be pushing the election, which must be held by 31 August, down to the wire (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 14:14:49 GMTMinister Lui Tuck Yew has said the current fare adjustment formula for public transport ensures operators will remain productive. His remarks come after S'pore's 2 public transport operators submitted applications to PTC to 'adjust' bus and train fares. Mr Lui assured that PTC will evaluate their applications and 'moderate' them accordingly (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 13:59:48 GMTThis is where WP's suggestion carries merit. By removing the profit incentive and reverting to a cost-recovery model, the emphasis can be shifted to improving service standards (Lim Weiliang - The Satay Club)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 13:49:48 GMTThe Aljunied-Hougang Town Council announced Friday that residents of both Opposition-led wards will soon be informed of the new MPs sitting on their Town Council. New community engagement programs are also in the works, like a new iPhone app.. slated to be released on 1 August, with an Android version coming out later (SGEP Editor: Don't miss the Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 13:43:00 GMT["The EP is essentially an additional 'insurance' for PAP to insure itself against losing a GE, and to provide a 'backdoor' for PAP to install their own man in the Istana to check on the newly elected non-PAP govt."] Do you think PAP will allow a contest to sabotage the chances of its candidate Tony Tan?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 13:31:56 GMT[A Tale of Two Jokers] .. Joker #1: Andrew Kuan .. Joker #2: Tan Jee Say.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 13:27:31 GMTBattle of the Tans...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 13:22:48 GMTDon't cry for me, Ayer Rajahhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 13:19:28 GMTWhile ST 'journalist' Tessa Wong was quick to quote 'anonymous' sources to smear presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian one week ago, she failed to use the sources made available to her even when they were widely circulated on the internet. In her article today entitled "Another Tan joins the fray", Tessa Wong did not bother to reproduce the key points..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 12:58:50 GMTDr Tony Tan: GE2011 was a 'win-win-win result' [238 readers' comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 12:52:02 GMT["The real problem isn't the foreigners. It's govt and university policies. Frankly, the foreigners in our midst are exploited just as much as S'poreans. Both NTU and NUS have revolving door policies."] An interesting perspective from an insider.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 12:48:34 GMT[Letter to ST Forum - not published] Dear Mr Tan: I highly admire and commend your courage, friendliness, wisdom and spirit in public service to serve the people of S'pore. Recently, I wrote a letter to ST Forum to support your decision to contest in the upcoming PE. Unfortunately, it was not published. The following is what I wrote.. (Teo Kueh Liang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 06:14:06 GMTWhat is a picture of a smiling Tony Tan doing on a ST prime news page, which is meant to cover Tan Jee Say's aspirations to be the next EP? Then, we have Dr Tony Tan again on Prime News, page 20 (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 06:08:23 GMT[Tan Jee Say running for President: break PAP monopoly] I applaud Tan Jee Say's foray into the Presidential Election. The other candidate whom S'poreans like is Tan Kin Lian, former NTUC Income chief who helped build up the company into the thriving one it is today. Clearly, the PAP govt is determined to keep it all in the family .. A vote for Tony Tan is a vote for PAP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 06:05:42 GMT[Employment Plight of Our Seniors] I refer to today's ST Forum article 'Why seniors end up as security guards'. My heart goes out to Mrs Joanna Han's mother. Mrs Han's sharing reminded me of a conversation I once had with a Cambodian business associate. He asked me, "S'pore is a rich country but why are there so many elderly people working as food centre cleaners?" He went on...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 04:19:15 GMT[Straitjacketed cosmopolitanism] Not only does S'pore want brain-cauterised S'poreans, we want all foreigners coming here to contribute their skills and labor to our society and economy, to put on straitjackets on entering. We want them decontaminated of political impulses, and become, like S'poreans, mere economic and consumerist automatons. Unless, of course, they support the single party that dominates this state.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 04:13:03 GMT[Competition? SBS and SMRT are operating as 'cartels' to fix prices in public transport ] Since when did we have SBS and SMRT 'competing' with each other? If this is so, why do they keep raising their fares together? Where does the competition come from when there is no free market in our public transport sector?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 04:11:59 GMTWhy the PAP is unlikely to allow Tan Jee Say to contest in the Presidential election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 04:10:06 GMT[A Refreshing Candidate in the Presidential Election] This is a continuing phenomenon from the GE in May which witnessed PAP's first defeat in the reputable Aljunied GRC and reduction of its total votes to 60.1%. There is no reason not to expect this electoral mood to continue in the presidential election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 03:51:37 GMTDear all: we heard that Mr Tan will be going for an informal breakfast at Bukit Timah Market & Food Centre and walk along the railway line to the Rail Mall this Sunday morning. The breakfast should start at about 8 am, and he should be reaching Rail Mall at around 10 am. Feel free to join him or say hi if you see him there!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 01:08:10 GMT2.8 per cent [increase in public transport fares] is not a game-changer .. why are people still complaining? The reason behind the uproar stems from unhappiness over the current transport system. The fare hike was only a catalyst that sparked off the whole reaction. Privatisation of transport is indeed a huge load off the Govt's shoulders, but it comes at the expense of people's welfare (Letter from Lin Jiayi - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 00:57:33 GMT[Chan Chun Sing not entirely wrong] At the end of the day, what MG Chan, his critics and all of us are aiming for is empowerment. It is that distrust which is holding us back from giving such initiatives our support. I would thus urge that we keep an open mind. A new minister is in charge of MCYS. He is, in my opinion, a necessary replacement from his predecessor whom I have always disliked.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 00:47:40 GMT[Of odd politicians & political office] 2 political developments in recent weeks have negatively affected me .. "LEE & GOH SECRETARIAT" .. "ALLEGED WRONGDOER TO WATCH INVESTIGATORS" .. Lately, odd politicians and political office seem to be the flavors of the month.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 00:45:08 GMTWhat the other hopefuls say ... (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 00:42:27 GMT[GE 2011 outcome was a win-win-win result] "The situation where you have one overwhelming party which has almost all the seats, with little effective Opposition - and I stress this is my personal view - is a matter of the past. There could be a new normal in S'pore politics now, which is a strong party in govt .. matched by an effective Opposition in Parliament." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 00:36:22 GMTThe M'sian Govt has defended its handling of the July 9 rally in a letter to Wall Street Journal. This was in response to an article published by WSJ alleging the M'sian Govt had created "an environment of fear and repression" in handling of the Bersih 2.0 demonstrations (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 00:17:13 GMT[What goes up stays up - for now] Rocketing house prices have moved private property ownership out of reach of most fresh graduates setting out in life, and are an obstacle to young couples getting married or raising children (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 16 Jul 2011 00:02:50 GMTWe refer to the letter by Mr Choudhary ["Rental hoax or exceptional demand?"]. Estate agents and salespersons are expected to comply with the guidelines. Mr Choudhary can e-mail CEA (Council for Estate Agencies)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:56:43 GMT[Rental hoax or exceptional demand?] I am a 27-year-old professional from India working in S'pore, and have been looking to rent a 3-bedroom HDB unit with 2 friends in the centre of town. Most of the advertisements on property websites are fake, and many of the units listed online do not exist for rent.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:52:30 GMTBanks require credit card users to provide their contact details, including their mobile phone numbers. However, my number has since been passed to other branches of the same bank for marketing purposes. I have also received calls from AIA. This is not just an invasion of privacy, because the calls are very disturbing when one is overseas in a different time zone (Lee Pheng Soon - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:48:14 GMTSingPost delivers around 2.8 million items a day... the last-mile delivery is labor-dependent and hence subject to occasional human error (Singapore Post - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:38:10 GMTMr Teo pointed out that recruitment over the years has not kept pace with workload increases (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:27:59 GMTTHE tripartite working group should give deeper thought to the plight of baby boomers ["Older workers getting fair or raw deal?"]. It saddens me when older workers have their salaries cut not because of poor performance, but because of age (Alex Cheong - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:20:24 GMTFor the past 3 years, my 69-year-old mother has tried 3 times to secure a simple job, slicing fish, with NTUC FairPrice. Each time, the interviewer, upon finding out her age, turned her down. I shop at FairPrice daily and have encountered cashiers and fish packers who are foreigners and cannot execute a simple exchange of goods or tell me where the shrimps are, without help from their local colleagues (Joanna Han - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:14:26 GMTIt also inspires Singaporeans to "express our dreams and aspirations" and ultimately enhances Singapore's attractiveness as "an endearing home" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:07:46 GMT[Why we use drop-inlet chambers on the roads] We refer to the letter "These potential breeding chambers need dealing with" (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 23:03:27 GMTWe refer to the letter "Playground Conducive To Mosquito Breeding". NEA does not advocate fogging as the primary means of dengue control. Our key strategy in dengue control is source reduction, which is to deny Aedes mosquitoes the places to breed. Fogging should only be undertaken when there are dengue fever cases in the estate, or when the mosquito population in a particular area is high (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 22:57:41 GMT'Putting all your eggs in one basket' is almost always folly and this is no different where investments are concerned. Portfolio diversification is probably the most important ingredient for reaching one's long-term financial goals while keeping risk to a minimum (Shrikant Bhat is head of wealth mgt at Citibank S'pore - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 22:53:50 GMTIf "News of the World" had been shut and Brooks and Hinton both defenestrated back in 2009 when the hacking allegations first surfaced, that would have been more than enough to signal that News Corp was taking them seriously, was saying that such behavior was unacceptable, and was drawing a firm line under an unfortunate and illegal episode. Now, however, such actions only serve to make News Corp look even more guilty (Felix Salmon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 22:46:35 GMTLes Hinton, the top executive of Rupert Murdoch's Dow Jones & Co, resigned Friday after becoming a target of criticism for the phone-hacking scandal that occurred when he oversaw News Corp's British newspapers (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 22:41:49 GMTThe security flaw came to light 9 days ago as the website www.jailbreakme.com released code that Apple customers can use to modify the iOS operating system that runs those devices through a process known as "jail breaking." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 22:35:06 GMT[The "Elected" President] 10 years, and $40 million dollars...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 15:10:27 GMTThe couple who scooped the £161million EuroMillions jackpot were today named as Colin and Christine Weir - a retired pair from a small seaside town in Scotland - who have kept their win a complete secret since Tuesday's draw (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 15:03:31 GMT[Dr Tony Tan was no independent-minded person on the graduate mothers scheme] When Tony Tan's name was 1st floated as possible presidential candidate, ST was quick to highlight his supposed independent streak from PAP govt. In particular, Dr Tony Tan was said to have stood up to Cabinet by opposing the graduate mothers scheme. How accurate is this statement? To answer this question, it is helpful to review the older news archives.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 14:55:55 GMT[Dr Tony Tan: President must have respect of govt and ministers to do anything effectively] A former PAP Education minister in the 1980s and 1990s, Tony Tan is best remembered for his pro-foreigner and pro-elitist education policies which caused tremendous hardship, suffering and grief to S'poreans. He was responsible for subsidising and giving free govt scholarships for foreigners to study in local universities while refusing to do more to help S'pore students.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 14:47:28 GMTTownhall meeting: "Why does MOE give scholarships to foreigners to study in our JCs? Every JC has around 80+ foreign scholars per cohort. There are around 5 such JCs, so rounding off to 350 to 400 kids per year. This means 350 to 400 S'poreans lose their places in JCs to foreigners each year."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 14:36:37 GMT[Ex-NTU A/Prof: Don't bash foreigners, problem lies with Govt & University policies] I would like to close by stating my firm belief that problems at S'pore universities have nothing to do with foreigners. They have everything to do with lack of rights and prerogatives of academic staff, local or foreign. Don't bash the foreigners folks; they are in the same boat as we are.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 14:33:24 GMT[Comments on NUS Commencement 2011] Below contains Shin Leong's full comments to Shin Min Daily News regarding NUS's invitation to him to be part of its traditional academic procession during Commencement 2011 last Saturday.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 14:27:07 GMT[Educating in the 21st century] Revamping the education system is a challenge with many issues to tackle. While there's room to allow greater diversity in learning paths and alternative forms of assessment, we must also be prepared to change the way we view success. We should allow our children to explore their world bravely.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 14:19:28 GMTI refer to comments by the Transport Minister. As a Certified Public Accountant, my views are that spending by public entities can be tightly controlled if govt funds are given based on strict budget. If there is tight budgetary control, public entities will control their spending and should have incentives to keep costs down (Letter from Tan Saw Bin - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 14:14:18 GMT["After the last elections, the ruling PAP realises that it's no longer infallible. My greatest fear now is that the Govt is terrified of the people. You cannot have a system where the people are pampered." - Philip Yeo, Special Economic Adviser in PMO]. Do you agree with him?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 14:00:46 GMTFormer PM Lee Kuan Yew to be immortalised on screen [349 readers' comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 13:57:02 GMT[Advice Needed for Career Switch] Hello Gilbert: I chanced upon your website and thought your team could shed some light onto my situation. Unlike others who have sought advice from you, I'm neither unemployed nor depressed, but rather, seriously considering and undergoing a transition in life.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 13:54:31 GMTShould ex-PMs receive staff support? (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 06:57:47 GMTPoll: 96 percent want Lee Kuan Yew to pay for his own additional 'staff support'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 06:53:43 GMTA Retiree's Experience with his CPF Monieshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 06:46:16 GMTTin Pei Ling shows her 'big face' everywhere in Marine Parade GRChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 06:33:25 GMTMiddle East leaders cultivate a personality cult by having huge posters of themselves everywhere so their people are reminded all the time who the big boss is. So when I see huge posters of PM Lee in connection with National Day, I am left wondering if PAP govt is subtly sending the same message to daft S'poreans. I get the very strong impression that it's a PAP National Day (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 06:25:56 GMTFor 30 hours of training costing 20,000 yuan [S$4,000), women keen to snag a billionaire, millionaire or even just an affluent man learn techniques to make them more attractive, from how to put on make-up in the most flattering way to how to spot a liar by looking at his facial expressions (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 06:21:37 GMT[Tan Jee Say's participation in the Presidential Election] Here is my statement...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 05:36:39 GMT[Reply raises more questions about 'all monies' clause] I refer to the Association of Banks in Singapore's reply, "What housing loan borrowers should know about 'all monies' clause" (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 05:11:40 GMT[What housing loan borrowers should know about 'all monies' clause] We refer to the letter from Mr Leow Zi Xiang, "A loan clause too far?" (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 05:08:38 GMTWould it not be better for S'poreans if Mr Tan Jee Say furthers the work of his party on the ground, building up both the party's and his political credentials so that they can offer S'poreans an alternative choice at the ballot box, much like what the Workers' Party have been doing? (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 04:53:10 GMT[Tan Jee Say to throw hat into presidential race] Mr Tan informed SDP Sec-Gen Dr Chee Soon Juan of his intention to run for the presidency and has resigned from the party to do so.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 04:32:22 GMT[How Can The Proposed Fare Hike Be Justified?] It is hoped that the Public Transport Council should consider, for a start, whether under current adverse cost-of-living circumstances there is a need for any fare hike, since the Public Transport Operators have earned fair returns in 2010, and will be expected to do the same this year.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 04:27:29 GMTTo be the Conscience of the Nationhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 04:20:14 GMT[Why I want to be President - To be the Conscience of the Nation] The following is a press statement from Tan Jee Say.. (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 02:34:51 GMTAs expected, attacks on presidential hopefuls will come.. At the moment, the guns are trained at Tan Kin Lian. Perhaps some could be mercenaries being paid to do the smearing, or some may have an axe to grind. There are no saints among mortals. Everyone will have a few warts here and there. And finally, Tan Cheng Bock is making his appearance. Would there be smears thrown at him, or at Tony Tan? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 01:58:03 GMT'Tung Shin Hospital missed the point: as a social entity with a mission, who should Tung Shin entertain 1st - the police, or those who need help?' (MalaysiaKini)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 01:50:18 GMT[9 Jul 2011: The New Social Compact in S'pore] I spoke at a public forum hosted by Young Sikh Association. It was yet another fascinating discussion where I found Dr Tan Chi Chiu (Chairman of the Lien Centre for Social Innovation, SMU)'s views particularly thoughtful and worthy of greater circulation. Specifically, he shared many insightful thoughts on how the govt should move forward together with civil society..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 01:37:21 GMTWhy did the police do what they did? (Zan Azlee - TheMalaysianInsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 01:31:49 GMTHDB announced new BTO prices. Their asking prices are $137,000 [3-room].. Few months ago in May, they demanded $166,000 [3-room]. So what happened? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 01:07:48 GMTMore families applying for childcare subsidieshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 01:03:00 GMT"Stand up for Singapore". I will be submitting my COE application next week with friends and supporters. Thank you all for your words of encouragement.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 00:43:42 GMT[The Fun Pack Song Fiasco: Have The Parades Lost Their Focus?] National Day celebrations should not be confined to parades and celebratory public service award ceremonies; in the spirit of togetherness, it should also be a time to remember fellow citizens or households who might be struggling with day-to-day commitments or endeavours.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 00:40:53 GMT[Tan Kin Lian supports WP's National Transport Corporation] To see why Minister Lui's comments about nationalization is BULLSHIT, we only have to look at the recent DBSS debacle. HDB is a nationalized public housing developer. The DBSS scheme by then-Minister Mah Bow Tan was an attempt to privatize public housing.... If Singapore had a National Transportation Corporation..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 00:07:18 GMT[Public Transport System Structurally Flawed] Minister Lui seems to be showing signs of balls of steel with his current unwavering position on the structure of S'pore's public transport system. He is on a collision course with Opposition politicians. He is not going to have an easy ride, since this is something which even grassroots leaders, like my friend below, find unpalatable..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 00:05:53 GMTIt is mathematically possible to have the party that won 51% of popular votes end up with only a mere 4 seats in Parliament (Chan Jia Hui - NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 15 Jul 2011 00:03:32 GMTListening carefully to you...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:58:36 GMT[Lotteries not the way to promote off-peak travel] I read with concern Wednesday's article about a scheme in which commuters earn credits for travelling during off-peak times. It develops a mindset that lotteries are a way of life, even in essential public services like transport (Dr Tham Chen Khong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:56:35 GMT[Let's go back to health-care basics] If Britain can still uphold ideals of universal healthcare even in midst of financial crisis sweeping across Europe, I find it difficult to understand why, given the extraordinary national growth rates, deep reserves and revenues, ordinary S'poreans have to put up with exorbitant costs, long waiting times at outpatient polyclinics, chronic shortage of public hospital beds and poor standards of care in nursing homes (Liew Kai Khiun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:54:59 GMTI had the good fortune of being invited to a discussion with more than 40 university students interning with various organisations. One of the topics that arose was the issue of Malaysia's brain drain. Speaking to some of these interns, I asked them to consider the following.. (Letters to the Editor - TheStar, Malaysia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:53:09 GMTEven our neighbor [Singapore] is now beginning to feel dragged down by the social ills of the unmitigated influx of ungrateful foreigners (Letters to the Editor - TheStar, Malaysia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:50:23 GMT[Neither law nor morality at Manpower ministry] Tan Chuan-jin should think of his job as one of rolling up his sleeves and making things better, not defending the indefensible record of the ministry.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:37:55 GMT[Migrant workers can get help here] Migrant Workers' Centre, a joint initiative of NTUC and SNEF, was established in April 2009 (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:35:57 GMTEmployers responsible in taking care of foreign workers: BG Tan [287 comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 23:29:59 GMT...And why this hike isn't necessary (Leong Sze Hian)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 22:34:23 GMTWhy fare hikes are necessary... (Francis Cheng)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 22:31:18 GMT[Website glitch: Why such a long wait for refund?] The SIA website hanged and showed an error message when my son tried to book 3 return tickets..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 22:27:12 GMTSIA chief says sorry for new website's glitches.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 22:22:44 GMTLetter from Dr Kua Kia Soong, Director, Suaram for Human Rights (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 22:18:23 GMTWRAPUP 7- In addition to the probe by British lawmakers keen to break his grip on politics, the FBI said it was looking into allegations News Corp tried to hack into 9/11 victims' phones (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 22:14:44 GMTHe broke the story that destroyed a 168-year-old newspaper, humiliated one of the world's most powerful media moguls and cast a spotlight on a phone hacking scandal that has embroiled politicians, police and journalists. And he says there is more to come (AP - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 22:11:08 GMTAt least 2 S'pore banks have reportedly been dangling some of the lowest rates on selected properties. The fact that these deals have not been offered to the rest of the market yet and with the marketing kept low-profile, suggests that banks themselves recognise it would be counter-productive to engage in an open mortgage war at this time (Colin Tan is head of research and consultancy at Chesterton Suntec Int'l - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 21:57:53 GMTOne quirk of the current recovery in S'pore's residential property market is the rising popularity of small-sized apartments, better known as "shoebox" units (Tan Chin Keong is an analyst at UBS Wealth Management Research - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 21:49:46 GMTWhile both operators cited cost pressures as reasons for proposed adjustments, some such as WP MP Gerald Giam have questioned need for fare hikes in light of both operators' healthy profits in last financial year. A review of current transport system, and reforms to encourage greater competition in the transport industry, will work to the benefit of commuters (Letter from Kelvin Seah Kah Cheng - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 21:45:58 GMT[Public transport fare increases] This was my response to July 12 media queries regarding public transport fare increases: Having a National Transport Corporation would not necessarily mean higher subsidies or a loss-making endeavor... It is a fallacy to think the 2 public transport operators today represent genuine competition which imposes market discipline that ensures efficiency and good performance.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 17:44:54 GMTTomorrow at 11 am, I will be visiting the 10th Halal Food Expo & Malaysia Fresh Fruits Fiesta 2011 at Singapore Expo Hall 5.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 16:41:06 GMT[SPH reports 30% drop in Q3 profit] SPH added that improved performance from the internet and exhibitions businesses cushioned a marginal reduction in profits from the newspaper and magazine segment.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 16:38:23 GMTMan murdered at Toa Payoh Lorong 1http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 16:35:26 GMTIs it the same old logic of, "If you don't pay your ministers millions, your mother, wife and daughter will end up as maids in other country!"? It is scary when "greed for money" overtakes "honor of duty"! Maybe there is hope yet in politicians who are willing to give up their lucrative jobs to sincerely serve the people. Heard of Chen Show Mao or Sylvia Lim, anyone? (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 16:25:42 GMTMah Bow Tan: Am now in San Francisco, visiting old friends and taking a look at what's happening in Silicon Valley...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 16:15:36 GMTTownhall meeting: "Despite making $162m and $72m by SMRT and SBS respectively, why are they still raising the transport fee? Should daily living necessity such as public transport be run for profit purposes?" - Titus Leonghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 16:11:06 GMT[Public transport fares] I have read the proposal by WP for a Public Transportation Corporation. I believe it is a good idea which should be considered. The increase of fares may seem small to the well off but has an impact on many financially strapped S'poreans. If PTC decides to approve the increase, I would urge the govt to help the vulnerable S'poreans cope with the increase in the cost of living.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 16:04:18 GMTSBS Transit seemed uninterested in addressing the issues until I gave feedback to PTC and LTA recently. Commuters are penalised if they pay the incorrect fares; why isn't SBS Transit penalised for overcharging? If there is a problem with the current fare system, SBS Transit should solve it, and not at the expense of the commuters (Letter from Jansen Loo - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 15:56:10 GMTDespite all the hype .. I even took the trouble to get a refund and found, to my surprise, that I could claim only the excess fares I had been charged and not the full fare. How is this fair, given that commuters caught underpaying their fares could be fined well in excess of the correct fares? (Lee Kwok Weng - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 15:51:26 GMT[Bersih movement in M'sia] My KL friend wore a yellow tie. He said it is the symbol of the Bersih movement. The recent demonstration was for the people to voice their unhappiness, and to send a memorandum to the Agong (King), to convey the message to the govt on the need to change some of the rules, to give all political parties a more level playing field to contest in the coming general election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 15:42:22 GMTA committee has been set up to investigate the controversial incident on July 9 when police reportedly fired tear gas and sprayed water-laced chemical directly into the compound of the Tung Shin Hospital during a Bersih 2.0 rally (FreeMalaysiaToday)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 15:36:12 GMT[Leadership - guided by values] I am giving this talk to the Marketing Institute of Singapore. It is open to members and the public. More details can be found here...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 12:19:14 GMTThe best educated elites from PAP cannot win the hearts of the people. And people who spoke broken English or less perfect English won the race. Will there be a repeat in the coming PE? Tan Kin Lian who speaks less perfect English is closer to the people .. Tony Tan who is proficient in the English language keeps himself a distance away from the common men and women (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 12:14:39 GMT[Will Minister Lui Tuck Yew be joining MP Raymond Lim at the back?] How long will he last as Transport Minister?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:46 GMT[Lui Tuck Yew's argument against nationalizing the public transport cannot stand] Basically, what you are saying is that the govt does not want any extra responsibility, or do not have the capability to operate a "first class" transport system cost effectively and efficiently.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:57:08 GMT["....as PLCs, it is not unreasonable for PTOs to earn fair returns from the sizeable capital investments required to sustain their operations and to invest in future public transport needs." - PAP Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew] Is it reasonable for SBS and SMRT to raise transport fares now?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:49:46 GMT[Singaporeans' wage increase not par with cost of living] Ultimately, who're the ones enjoying the 'Swiss standards of living', and who are bearing the brunt of the 'Swiss costs of living' here?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:30:52 GMTMost Singapore workers see salaries increasehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:28:03 GMT[An epidemic of corpses in Singapore] Let's guess: where will the next corpse be found?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:22:13 GMTPUB: You Never Know What You will Get in Your Waterhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:15:25 GMT... a volunteer with the Bukit Merah Merchants Association added that he supervised the planting of flags last night, and said that the mobile garbage bin was used out of convenience (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:12:09 GMTGeorge Yeo to join LKY School of Public Policyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:07:01 GMTHigh spending by visitors to S'pore's 2 new casino resorts and other attractions was not enough to offset a dip in manufacturing as the economy, one of the world's fastest growing since the 2007-08, stalled in the past 3 months. The region's strengths may make this a brief blip; events in Europe may dictate otherwise (Robert Cutler - AsiaTimesOnline)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 11:04:52 GMT[President Lula of Brazil] I spoke to my friend from Tunisia that I will be contesting the Presidential election and that I come from an ordinary background. He told me President Lula of Brazil also come from a humble background. I researched about President Lula and found this interesting commentary in Wikipedia..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 07:42:48 GMTCondo residents unhappy as work on MRT line resumes (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 07:38:17 GMTProperty developer Far East Organisation plans to raise at least S$500 million through the listing of some of its hotel and serviced residence assets in a real estate investment trust next year, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 07:35:18 GMTNationalised transport system has its downsides: Minister Lui (288 readers' comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 05:47:22 GMTWhy not a middle ground where we would have a profit-driven company with a moral heart? There is much possibility for them to "return" to the society , yet allowing them to maintain profit as reserve for the companies' needs. Now the question is, would the largest shareholder [you know who] allow such a system? (UnbiasedElectorate)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 05:43:51 GMT[NUS rejected my son - have to sell house to send him overseas] Anybody here in the same predicament?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 05:30:16 GMT[Temasek Holdings pays to stay 'on top' of Temasek Review Emeritus] How much taxpayers' monies is TH spending to 'outrank' TR? Does this Facebook page need to change its name as well?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 05:23:12 GMT[Pay rise for majority of Singaporeans in 2011: Survey] Guess who's among the 8 per cent who received 21 per cent salary increase?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 05:15:15 GMTIf this sounds familiar, it's because SDP first proposed to hold town hall meetings during the last GE. While Mr Hri Kumar and other PAP MPs are able to organise their townhall gatherings, the party that came up with the idea is not allowed to hold such activities (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 05:07:34 GMTThe Malaysian federal govt should publicly apologise to Tung Shin Hospital for the police's actions in firing tear gas and chemically-laced water into the hospital compound, the DAP said today (The Malaysian Insider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 02:52:25 GMTFearing consequences of being called a liar, the Malaysian Health Minister flipped and has pointed the finger squarely now at the Tung Shin hospital's board (MalaysiaKini)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 02:47:47 GMTLim Biow Chuan has a different opinion from Lui Tuck Yew (Reader's Comment: "dun worry, once the party whip comes, Lim's opinion will be the same as Lui's")http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 02:30:10 GMTThe panacea for making govt services and employees become responsible, hardworking and efficient is to privatise them and the organization. Just change the clothing and it will work instantly. The only thing they cannot privatise and will remain inefficient will be the govt. If only they could privatise the govt as well, efficiency will go up immediately. And of course, cost will be down (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 02:15:41 GMT[SMRT cannot increase fare till they solve overcrowding] How much bonuses will SMRT's Malaysian CEO be getting this year?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 01:59:20 GMTPoliticians and policy makers no matter how smart they are, if they are disconnected from the ground, cannot serve the people successfully. They use their academic and model-based thinking to substitute for common sense. Then they issue and rate their own report cards yearly. We will give them a more honest and fairer score at the next elections (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 01:50:05 GMTHow much profit is enough for the privately run companies? Or is it a privately run company in the 1st place? Why is a minister defending a privately run company and its profits? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 01:39:51 GMTAn American visitor once commented that he was astounded to read in the press some of the quotes attributed to Singapore ministers. That was before he was told how much these carpetbaggers pay themselves (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 01:20:50 GMTWhen I visited the Highland Road area off Upper Serangoon Road recently, I saw these three terrace houses in a row that said it all for me, about the way our property market has been going in recent years..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 14 Jul 2011 00:57:25 GMTIsn't he the best man to look after your CPF savings? In 1997 CPF members had lost some $14 mil in savings when their policies lapsed due to lack of funds. NTUC Income, headed by Tan Kin Lian, allowed about 70 holders to revive their plans..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 22:36:02 GMTQue Sera Sera (Kate Spade Tin's version)...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 22:32:01 GMTAn entity that depends on Govt funding and which operates on a cost-recovery basis, "would have little incentive to keep costs down". Mr Lui noted that "the profit incentive" of commercial enterprises "spurs efficiency and productivity improvements".. S'poreans should also "recognise that as PLCs, it is not unreasonable for operators to earn fair returns.. " (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 22:29:19 GMT[Review fare adjustment formula] Is reason of "cost pressures" cited by both operators for fare increase justified? Shouldn't public transport be a public good and service, rather than a money-making machine for shareholders? (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 22:19:03 GMTWhy HDB estate [Pinnacle@Duxton] needs parking restrictions (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 22:13:52 GMTI am disappointed that the NDP organisers, comprising a significant number of civil servants, did not seek legal advice which is within easy access (Dr David Tan, Asst Prof of Entertainment Law, NUS - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 22:06:25 GMTGoing gaga over Lady Gaga...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 21:52:11 GMTMr Tang Li's letter "Patriotism is not an effective marketing tool" failed to grasp the fundamental point about Mr Arthur Loke's letter, "Let's endorse home-grown law firms first". Mr Loke was not advocating patriotism as a marketing tool but questioning what seems to be an institutionalised discrimination against home-grown firms in favor of foreign firms, by S'porean businesses and companies (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 21:45:19 GMTWe refer to Mr Mark Goh's letter, "Home-grown firms are the bedrock", in which he asks what efforts S'pore institutions have made to help home-grown firms penetrate foreign markets. On its part, the Govt strongly encourages local law firms which have the resources and capabilities to expand overseas.. and will continue to support their efforts (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 21:43:04 GMTIn what could possibly be 1st case of its kind here -- consumers owed relatively small amounts by their service provider banding together to seek legal redress to get their money back -- 247 creditors have assigned their debts to 4 individuals, who themselves are True Spa customers. The Court application by the 4 plaintiffs to liquidate True Spa was filed yesterday (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 21:31:54 GMTM'sia, of course, like many other countries, faces a shortage of doctors. Even more scarce are doctors of courage and conscience.. a special obligation to their fellows, as do lawyers. Lawyers in M'sia, to their credit, have not shirked their responsibility, unlike their timid brethren in S'pore. But doctors, until today, had not lived up to their oath, in M'sia. Until the outrage of tear gas and acid water and violent arrests in Tung Shin Hospital (The Owl)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 20:59:32 GMTNajib reacted with characteristic heavy-handedness when tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of KL at the weekend. Many of the participants were reportedly younger-generation Malaysians. "I don't understand why the harshness, the beatings. The crowd didn't even throw stones at the shops. Why is the govt afraid? All we want is free elections." (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 20:52:31 GMTWork on King Albert Park train station will continue and pick up pace again within 3 days. LTA, along with MPs of the area, were currently in talks with Maplewoods condominium residents over their latest decision. But LTA said work has to go on as the construction is a vital step in completing Downtown Line 2 rail network (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 14:08:38 GMT[Pasir Ris HDB flat offered at eye-popping price tag] The ad shows a 1,528 sq ft HDB executive flat at Block 780 Pasir Ris Street 71 with an asking price of $900,000.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 11:26:50 GMT[RC paid Bangladeshi workers to hang S'pore flags at HDB blocks] "MG Chan asked us what we S'poreans can do for this country, if RC people want to help me put up the flag... Fine, do it yourself... Why need to engage Bangla moonlight after working hour?!" Have you hung S'pore flag yet, or still waiting for your friendly neighborhood Bangla to enter your home to hang it for you?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 11:19:54 GMT[46,000 pictures of the national flag] People's Association is encouraging the display of S'pore flag during National Day celebrations to set a record. The digital S'pore flag will be unveiled at an event organised by People's Association Youth Movement next month, in conjunction with PAYM 40th Anniversary celebrations.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 11:09:49 GMT[Comments on Fairprice closure] Below contains Shin Leong's full comments to TODAY, Shin Min Daily & ZaoBao's questions on the closure of NTUC Fairprice at Hougang Community Club. The good news is, Hougang residents will continue to have a supermarket (YES, Supermarket) after all.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 11:02:25 GMT[Lee Kuan Yew: 70 to 80 percent of a person's capability is 'genetic'] "I believe 70 to 80 per cent of a person's capability, his proclivities, his temperament, is genetic... So, I would put it briefly and say 70 per cent of what I am, I was born with it." - PAP supreme leader Lee Kuan Yew on his 'in-born' leadership 'capabilities'. Do you agree with him?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 10:56:04 GMTS'pore's 2 former PMs, Mr Lee Kuan Yew and ESM Goh Chok Tong, will continue to receive staff support from the govt, according to a statement by PMO on Monday [comments .. comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 10:51:45 GMTInstead of exploiting their duo-poly, as most commuters have no choice but to use the services of both companies, SBS Transit and SMRT should demonstrate how they are helping S'poreans get from place to place efficiently and comfortably, without adding to their daily cost of living expenses (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 10:29:16 GMTThe Workers' Party has called again for a National Transport Corporation to "oversee and provide universal transport service to all" [369 Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 10:25:40 GMTTony Tan: I can't change PAP policies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 06:52:58 GMTLKY and Chok Tong are in great demand as statesmen dispensing good advices to less experienced leaders the world over. In fact, world leaders will be more willing to hear their views and wisdom than Bush or Clinton and the likes from the White House. Why give free advice when there are plentiful of money to be made? The income can be used to defray cost of their offices and supporting staff (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 05:27:58 GMT[Will Minister Lui Teck Yew be joining MP Raymond Lim at the back?] When "handsome" MP Raymond Lim was Minister, he rubber stamped whatever SMRT and SBS wanted to do. Perhaps Minister Raymond Lim had thought that like the President of S'pore, he only had custodial powers. We now have a new Minster. If he follows MP Raymond Lim, I expect Minister Lui will be joining MP Raymond Lim at the back in 5 years time.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 04:58:47 GMT["PM Lee has decided that former MM Lee and ESM Goh will be provided staff support by the govt. Each will have one special assistant and one press secretary part-time, plus one secretary and two clerical officers full-time" - PMO] Your thought?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 04:57:21 GMTIn Part 1, we explained how PAP Govt borrowed against our CPF savings to conduct commercial activities .. the more the Govt borrows, the more it has to tax us. To this end, PAP has devised a myriad of ways to collect revenue from us. We need to change course and the 1st step is to understand.. [Are our reserves still intact? Part 3 will explore this question] SDPhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 04:37:15 GMT[The Provost of NUS has requested the assistance of Temasek Review Emeritus in contacting the reader who commented on TRE's site, titled "Local academics being discriminated by foreign heads in universities"]. Looks like NUS staff have been reading TRE...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 02:36:50 GMT[Scrap rallies for Presidential Election] What could we expect a candidate to say at a rally other than state his profile, work history and experience? We cannot expect the candidates to pinpoint wrong-doings of the Govt or suggest alternative policies at the rallies. In the Presidential Election, voters should stay focused on the 'suitability of the candidates for the job' as our Head of State (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 02:29:31 GMTTan Kin Lian on donation of the President's salary: "I would like to reiterate that I believe in public service and do not need to receive a large salary as President. I hope that this example will encourage other people, who earns a large income, to make a similar type of contribution towards charity..."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 01:57:14 GMTTan Kin Lian denied use of Grassroots Club function room for gathering of his supporters.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 01:52:10 GMTIn a 10-page letter detailing measures to minimise the adverse impact of the construction of the King Albert Park MRT Station, the LTA again sought to explain to residents of Maplewoods condo the trade-offs and potential fallout on the broader population, if the MRT launch shaft near the condo is relocated (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 01:43:04 GMTWe refer to Mr Richard Goh's letter ['LTA should be more proactive']. Members of the public who wish to report any indiscriminate parking can call 1800-Call LTA and provide the vehicle's registration number, date, time, location and nature of the offence, as well as the reporting person's contact details to facilitate our follow-up (Helen Lim, LTA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 01:30:42 GMT[LTA should be more proactive] When I wrote to LTA recently, a staff member called me and suggested I take the following steps should I encounter similar obstructions again.. I wish to ask LTA the following: Why do I need to take photos and testify for LTA to bring the offender to justice? Isn't this the function of LTA's enforcement unit? Finally, why is LTA adopting such a passive attitude? (Richard Goh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 01:26:02 GMT[Financial Planning for Young People] I am giving a talk on Financial Planning to students in the Institute of Technical Education. The key points of the talk are..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 01:18:53 GMTLikely lower on euro debt fears; Portek in focus (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 01:05:27 GMTGoh Chok Tong is also entitled to the goodies, we are told, "Mr Lee and Mr Goh continue to make significant contributions to S'pore, especially internationally." We beg to differ.. Both guys had supposedly chosen to step down from Govt in May to give PM Lee and his team a "fresh, clean slate" to carry the country forward. From the reality in sight, it looks more like an "old, moldy sheet" that is dragging the country down with dead weights (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 01:00:46 GMTWhat makes the transport companies think it is their god damn right to make millions in profits every year? And when profit is not enough, they simply apply to LTA to raise fares? Just because they are privatized, they can claime shareholders interests as #1 priority. Have they paid back the huge infrastructure cost of constructing the lines from public money? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 00:47:17 GMTTPL is helping to shape policy...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 00:21:11 GMT[PART-TIME JOBS FOR THE YOUNG: Parents must take responsibility] Last Saturday's report about the arrest of 80 youth for distributing fliers for loan sharks had one parent suggesting that the episode was handled insensitively.. There was even the suggestion as to whether the young ones were guilty at all. The bottom line is this: parents cannot cite ignorance to justify what is clearly wrongdoing.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 00:18:14 GMT[Loan Sharks And Youth Distributors: Putting The Debacle Into Perspective] Parents cannot conveniently use ignorance as a justification for the clear wrongdoing of their children; however, on the other hand, the police have the responsibility to properly clarify the involvement of the youth..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 00:09:44 GMTA single UK ticket has won Europe's biggest-ever lottery prize, the £161m [S$313m] EuroMillions jackpot (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 13 Jul 2011 00:01:56 GMTThe Workers' Party reiterated its call.. that it had, in its 2006 and 2011 manifestos, "called for MRT and public buses servicing major trunk and inter-town routes to be brought under a National Transport Corporation".. that the entity "should not be profit-oriented but should aim to provide public transportation services on the basis of cost and depreciation recovery" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 22:36:04 GMT[Worry over fare hike ripple] What is the justification for public transport fare increases as yesterday's front-page article reported? If even a basic necessity such as public transport attracts a fare hike, we shall soon see a chain of other increases as service providers hop on the bandwagon of price increases.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 22:32:18 GMT[Productivity and domino effect of fare hike] The proposal to increase bus and train fares is a yearly affair. If the latest proposal is approved, it will be the 'single biggest fare increase to hit commuters in recent years'. Transport is a necessity for every S'porean, and an increase in transport costs will create a ripple effect of escalating other expenses..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 22:28:21 GMT[Why a fare hike in wake of 'cost of living' debate?] Barely has the sound of PM Lee's promise to address cost of living issues faded, and here we are already seeing companies seeking to increase fares. Companies which provide a social commodity, such as public transport firms, should not function with profit maximisation as their prime objective.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 22:24:03 GMTDead body found at Serangoon Reservoir (Reader's Comment: "My goodness, whether it is murder, suicide or accidental death....there seems to be way too many all of a sudden.... very sad..... is there something really really wrong with this country?")http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 22:17:05 GMT[Rental hoax or exceptional demand?] I am a 27-year-old professional from India working in S'pore, and have been looking to rent a 3-bedroom HDB unit with 2 friends in the centre of town. Most of the advertisements on property websites are fake, and many of the units listed online do not exist for rent.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 22:11:48 GMTSingapore overtakes Hong Kong as a more expensive city for expatriates (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 21:51:47 GMT"We would like to inform that we are not soliciting donations or selling items on the streets or door-to-door, and have not authorised any individuals or groups to do so in public on our behalf." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 21:48:27 GMT[Andrew Kuan to join the fray?] Over the course of his online debates here, it was revealed that Mr Kuan was a former PAP member who has close personal links to former establishment figures who became Opposition candidates, including Mr Tan Jee Say and Dr Ang Yong Guan (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 15:23:09 GMT[The flip-side of privatisation...] All the gains in efficiency probably occurred in the 1st few years as a private company. As a listed company, they need to answer to shareholders and the profit motive would dominate the way it operates.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 15:18:27 GMT"Tide turns against Tan Kin Lian" becomes "Tide turns against Tanya Wei" in Temasek Review Emeritus. Read the comments [TRE]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 14:31:06 GMT[Difficulties faced in Presidential Campaign] I have been posting a few observations about the practical difficulties that my supporters and I have to face in our preparation for the Presidential campaign... I am not complaining - just pointing out the facts.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 12:56:47 GMTAndrew Kuan eyes 2nd presidential bid [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 12:52:01 GMTReach out to all Singaporeans [Media interview]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 12:49:11 GMTWe are the servants of the people...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 12:39:29 GMT[Why do our National Education programs never turn children into PAP supporters?] The younger they are, the higher the education they have, they are more likely to vote for the Opposition.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 12:36:31 GMTJust when you thought the slate of potential candidates for the upcoming Presidential Elections had been settled, along comes another hopeful... This PE is not just about voting the best qualified candidate for the job; it is about putting our confidence in the person who we feel will best represent the interest of S'poreans and S'pore (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 07:04:34 GMTDid you know that [in May 2006] Tan Kin Lian was already creating public awareness of banks' mis-selling tactics, way before the Lehman crisis? If only banks and MAS had listened...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 06:49:51 GMTJuly looks to be a busy month with travels planned to Beijing, Hong Kong and New York. As it turns out, July has been busy for me in Singapore as well...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 06:37:20 GMTI wonder whether a better option is to give away stored value cards with the minimum travel value in place to the destitute. I also believe that student concessionary cards need a review.. Please make concessionary rates available to those who need them most! (SpeakSpokeWriteWrote)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 06:03:09 GMTThe albatross on every commuter's neck is the opaque formula that inputs inflation rate to adjust transportation fare.. Go figure. Maybe some kind whistle blower will leak us the formula, and we get to see if it's as flawed as the one used for calculating ministerial salaries (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 06:02:10 GMT[IPS post-GE2011 survey, part 2] Here, we look at how political orientation and perceptions of political parties varied with respect to age, educational level and household income. (Also) ..around the theme of whether S'pore is moving towards a new normal.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 06:00:36 GMT[Restricted use of mini-bus] A supporter offered the use of his mini-bus for my campaign. Later, he found that the licence for his mini-bus is only to ferry his employees, and cannot be used for ferrying my supporters. So, he has to decline - to keep within the restriction.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 02:48:21 GMTThe Young Democrats of SDP will commemorate this [International Day of Youth] occasion in S'pore with an event entitled "YOUth as Singaporean". In support of civil liberties in our country and to celebrate this day, SDP will organise an online facebook photo caption contest called "YOUTHSful Moments" that will last from 12 Jul to 12 Aug 2011. Yes, it's starting today! (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 02:45:05 GMT[Is the Presidential Election a "political activity"?] I wanted to book a function room at Grassroots Club for a weekly gathering of my supporters. They reminded me politely their regulations disallow the club to be used for political activities. I said it will be used for my Presidential election, which is supposed to be "non-partisan" and "dignified", and so should not be classified as a "political activity". They are not able to decide on this matter.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 01:12:54 GMTThe Presidential Elections Committee did not issue him a certificate the last time. But Mr Kuan told MediaCorp last night he would apply for the certificate again under Constitution Article 19 Subsection 2 (g)(iv), in which he would state that he managed funds and reserves at JTC up to $9.3 billion - well above the $100 million stipulated by PEC for candidates to qualify.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 01:01:31 GMTWhat can be done about rising prices? The 1st step in addressing rising costs is to tackle the disease of escalating rentals, which benefits landlords but punishes the rest of S'poreans (Ng E-Jay, SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 00:40:56 GMT"You don't need to worry too much if you're earning current rupees. But the retired, the lower middle class and the poor have to worry." The poorest people in society, who spend disproportionately more on food, are hit most savagely of all (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 00:37:05 GMTNetizens want DBSS scrapped altogetherhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 00:32:04 GMT[SMRT must be removed from public listing] It should be considered one of S'pore's national assets for the people. Instead the nonsense we hear is that they must make profits for shareholders. At the citizen's expense.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 00:28:50 GMT[SMRT SBS fare increase: Pay And Pay, Again] During the GE, the ruling PAP sweetened the ground with monetary carrots. Don't be fooled, cried netizens. After the election, the govt would take it all back in the form of fee increases, GST and fare hikes. Netizens have been proven right. Again.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 00:19:45 GMTSBS Transit, SMRT apply for fare increases [SGEP Editor: 356 Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 12 Jul 2011 00:15:11 GMT[A case for discussion on death penalty] I refer to last Wednesday's article: 'Man accused of murder freed after 6 years in jail'. This case supports Maruah's position that various aspects of the death penalty in S'pore contravene international human rights norms.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 22:30:31 GMT[PART-TIME JOBS FOR THE YOUNG: Police methods] I do not consider those between 12 and 14 years old as youth but children. Unless the young people were key suspects, I do not see a need to handcuff them, and for all 80 to be at the station at the same time to endure a night of anxiety and questioning.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 22:23:30 GMT[PART-TIME JOBS FOR THE YOUNG: Parents must take responsibility] Last Saturday's report about the arrest of 80 youth for distributing fliers for loan sharks had one parent suggesting that the episode was handled insensitively.. There was even the suggestion as to whether the young ones were guilty at all. The bottom line is this: parents cannot cite ignorance to justify what is clearly wrongdoing.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 22:18:58 GMT[Liberalise use of Medisave to help the sandwiched class] The reply from MOH.. should spare a thought for those who have a limited income: the sandwiched class - elderly people who are semi-retired and have limited income, yet do not qualify as "needy" - to whom any excessive outlay of cash is a heavy burden (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 22:02:08 GMT[Review pay for nurses] Health Minister Gan Kim Yong has called for a full review of healthcare policies .. one needs to ask: Why are there so few local nurses? (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 21:54:55 GMT[Tan Kin Lian - Endorsement 2] A young person's endorsement of Mr Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:49:17 GMT[Andrew Kuan planning to contest in presidential election?] In a comment posted on TR Facebook, Mr Kuan said..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:43:36 GMT[Local Employer's Appeal Letter to PMO for More Workers] To: Prime Minister .. Dear Prime Minister..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:35:59 GMTIn April, a carpet shop owner in the Greek ski resort of Arachova was found dangling from a rope from a bridge on the road to the nearby ancient site of Delphi. "Don't look for other reasons. The economic crisis led me to this. I have debts to the social security fund, my stockists and my landlady," the 64-year-old father said in a note (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:30:12 GMTSometimes its very hard to prove naysayers wrong , especially in S'pore politics where this adage always seems to be true, "before election, promise sky and earth; after election, pattern more then badminton". Perhaps its time to highlight the decision making process within the transport council, because maybe i wasn't a scholar to figure out rational of their decision, or perhaps i wasn't privy to some forecast model that justifies such action (UnbiasedElectorate)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:23:36 GMTTownhall meeting: 'The rising fuel prices have given the power and transport companies the excuse to raise electricity and public transport prices again, but they keep earning record profits every year. What justifications for the relentless increase in prices of these basic necessities? Can govt do something about it?'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:16:19 GMT[SBS Transit, SMRT submit applications for fare adjustment - CNA] S'poreans must await the PTC's deliberations and decision on whether such increases are justified.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:12:40 GMT[SBS and SMRT to raise transport fares] With PAP just securing another 5-year 'mandate', PTC is likely to give approval to the 2 companies' application to raise their fares. The application is just a 'wayang' to give the public 'illusion' that there is a due process taking place to study the impact on the lives of ordinary S'poreans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 15:09:45 GMTChina would want to maintain equitable relation with U.S. (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 14:44:42 GMT[Tan Kin Lian - Presidential Elections 2011] Animoto video of Mr Tan's press conference. Watch and share!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 12:52:06 GMTThe good, the bad, and the ugly...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 12:48:26 GMTChiam See Tong: 'Town council report is politically motivated' (SGEP Editor: lots of Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 12:46:12 GMTInterviews Needed for CNA Unemployment Story (PS: Readers keen to be interviewed can email Gilbert. The interviews can be conducted anonymously)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 12:42:42 GMT['Next 5 years is crucial for S'pore politics'] The 1st substantive indication of where it is headed politically will depend on how the 9 Opposition MPs perform in Parliament, and what further changes PM Lee embarks on. In the meantime, a new generation of young voters and young politicians are knocking on the door.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 03:11:38 GMT[IPS post-GE2011 survey, part 1] A rising political consciousness among S'poreans has made more of us pay greater attention to issues, but has also increased skepticism of political parties. Another finding: A huge jump in citizens' reliance on the internet as an influential medium. This is a 2-part series, and in Part 1, I am going to present three sets of data: influence of issues, communication channels, and credibility perceptions of parties.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 02:53:29 GMTBut why, if we are generating budget surpluses, would Govt need to borrow money and go into debt? Let's tackle the 2nd question first. From whom is PAP Govt borrowing these large amounts of money? [How all this affects average citizen will be subject of Part 2] SDPhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 02:51:06 GMT[PAP issues guidelines which "coincidentally" help Dr Tony Tan] The unfair guidelines only serve to reinforce the perception that Dr Tony Tan is NOT independent ... If Dr Tony Tan wants to be respected as a honest, independent People's President, he should have objected to these guidelines which unfairly favour him.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 02:34:29 GMTMeanwhile, police released a 600-worded statement in response to the criticism about the handling of Ismil Kadar's wrongful conviction. And this morning, Aedit Abdullah wrote to the press as Chief Prosecutor for the Attorney General, to complain they had bad press. Listen, dummy: Ismil was convicted of murder. His lawyer filed appeal. Else he would have been hanged. Did you file for appeal? (SingaoreNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 02:22:06 GMT[My views of National Service - 2 sides] During my time as CEO of NTUC Income, I supported NS in the following ways... I supported the need to defend the nation, but wish to see the burden spread fairly among the people.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 00:40:30 GMTPresidential Elections: What Televised Programs Should Includehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 11 Jul 2011 00:09:35 GMT[TV may be game-changer] To win, candidates will have to secure strong support across the political divide. The direct election enables the President to be strong in doing what he thinks is right for S'pore and S'poreans, rather than to be popular. With a direct mandate, the govt of the day will have to take seriously any objections of the President when he exercises his custodial powers (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 23:59:13 GMTThe current suggestions issued by PMO - ranging from static statement speeches to the presentation of individual profiles - are pedantic and limited (letter from Kwan Jin Yao - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 23:57:19 GMT[PM Najib's administration urged by protesters to implement reforms and crack down on corruption] Bridget Welsh, M'sia specialist at Singapore Management University: "The fact that such a large crowd turned up despite a crackdown shows that voter anger is deep and this is going to push a lot of people who are in the middle towards the Opposition" (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 23:52:51 GMT[9 July 2011: IPS Post-Election Forum Speech on Party Renewal] Tessa Wong of the Straits Times called me up Saturday morning oddly asking if WP aimed to be a part of a coalition govt to which I answered in the negative. She filed her story.. For the record, nothing has been retracted.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 23:44:34 GMTWhenever I ask why they're still slogging away in menial jobs like cleaners, which is physically demanding, most say they have no choice. Why aren't your children supporting you? Poorly educated and ill-informed, most vote PAP because that's the only party they've known all their lives. But ironically, it's this very party that has failed them (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 23:37:00 GMT"At all material times, I have been maintaining the estate well. [The Town Council Management Report] is politically motivated" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 23:30:43 GMT[letter from Chief Prosecutor, For the Attorney-General : Straits Times reports give inaccurate impression] In the reporting of the case involving the Kadar brothers, ST has unfortunately continued to give the quite inaccurate impression that Ismil Kadar was facing a capital charge of murder in the Court of Appeal, and that he was acquitted of such a charge by the court.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 23:26:42 GMT[Where's that steely traffic cop?] The Traffic Police seem more tolerant of errant motorists. Penalties appear to be meted out only for errors in major thoroughfares and in the CBD. Elsewhere, the TP keep a low profile. With delegation of some duties to LTA and its outsourced agents, they have also given away much of this legacy. Is this new-age tolerance for recalcitrant driving preferable to the steely legacy of old which ensured discipline on our roads?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 23:20:07 GMTWe thank Mr See Han Xiang for his feedback [''Failed delivery' poser']. We have met Mr See and apologised for the inconvenience. We have also explained to Mr See that for an unsuccessful delivery, we need time to retrieve and transfer the item to the designated post office. As such, it is not possible for him to collect it immediately at his designated post office (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 22:25:58 GMT['Failed delivery' poser] I arrived at my office to find a 'failed delivery' postal notice. I asked the postman, who was 4 doors away, if I could get my parcels from him. He replied it was not possible as he did not bring the parcels with him; he had assumed no one would be in the office. The same thing happened last week. Why does SingPost dispatch postmen on delivery trips without parcels? (See Han Xiang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 22:22:23 GMTWhen doors opened 10am Saturday, only 20 people turned up. Dennis Wee Group director Chris Koh pointed out that if Sim Lian decreased its prices now, those who had already bought the units would be affected. "It also affects the creditability of the company - so it's not about cutting prices. It is about winning back the confidence of buyers" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 22:00:19 GMT[URA will review railway development plans] We thank Mr Damian Ng: "Why the need to develop our railway tracks?" and Mr S Valbir: "Link to waterfront city", for their letters on the former railway land (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 21:51:07 GMTFor their own safety...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 06:47:48 GMTSince 1997 Asian Financial Crisis, central banks of Asian countries have taken a precautionary measure to accumulate foreign exchange reserves. Currently, S'pore is in the midst of a build up to its next Presidential elections.. its President is by constitution the custodian to its national reserves. The prospective candidates each have a different take on how the President should approach the country's reserves (Kelvin Teo - NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 05:28:25 GMT[Guilt by public opinion] How many innocent Ismils have we hung? No one knows. I truly hope the govt will swallow its pride and have the courage to put a stop to these state-sanctioned murders. And we as members of the public should not be too quick to jump to conclusions and pronounce guilt on someone just because our media - and the courts - say they are guilty.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 05:11:53 GMT[Even an Indian can see thru SIA's Recruitment Purpose in India for Cadet Pilot] I found a blog of an Indian, blogging about SIA's recent massive recruitment exercise in Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore & Chennai. The following is his post:http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 04:16:34 GMT[Helping SMEs manage costs: Rental is one area the govt can help] With the transfer of ownership from JTC to MINT, MINT will be able to push up rental yields. JTC may find it politically sensitive to increase rents for SMEs. The problem is passed on to a commercial entity majority owned by Temasek Holdings..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 04:07:26 GMT[A shoo-in for the Presidency - P N Balji] Dear Mr Tan: This highly flattering article last week about TT's candidacy has elicited 450 comments. Read for yourself..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 03:36:26 GMTPMO issues guidelines on presidential polls, but Straits Times uses Tony Tan's picture to tell the story.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 03:33:03 GMT"ANGER". That's the word which best describes how some S'poreans feel about Govt giving scholarships to foreign students.. hopefully, critics will now see that Govt is not discriminating against S'poreans. What they're doing is to try to repair a failed family planning policy from 30 years ago. Whether this is the right thing to do is a separate matter, but there is nothing sinister or discriminatory in the Govt's actions (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 03:17:32 GMTWhat's the big deal about a pathetic 4.6 percent growth when most SWFs like the Norwegian Pension Fund garners nearly 10 percent return last year? TH's pre-crisis portfolio is around $185 billion dollars and it is now only $193 billion dollars, an increase of barely $8billion dollars.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 03:08:57 GMTAFTER Navy SEALs killed bin Laden, the White House released a photo of President Obama and his Cabinet inside the Situation Room, watching the daring raid unfold. Hidden from view, standing just outside the frame of that now-famous photograph, was a career CIA analyst. In the hunt for the world's most-wanted terrorist, there may have been no one more important (AP - TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 03:03:22 GMTAfter years of allegations about News of the World's tapping of voicemails, the scandal reached a tipping point this week when it was alleged that in 2002 the paper had listened to the voicemail of Milly Dowler, a missing schoolgirl who was later found murdered, and even deleted some of her messages to make room for more (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 02:51:44 GMT[How did the NoW hack phones?] Mobile phones used to come with a default 4-digit Pin such as 1234, 0000 or 3333. Customers were expected to change their Pin, but very few did. Tabloid journalists and private investigators could simply ring the number and if the caller didn't answer, enter the default Pin and access the person's messages (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 02:46:55 GMT[Alert the captain of the vessel] Dear Mr Tan: We believe you would help steer this large vessel toward the right direction. Even if as a president you may not be in direct control of the wheel, we believe you would alert the people where this vessel is heading. All the best!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 10 Jul 2011 02:42:46 GMTTrust between PAP and the people .. Transparency is the 1st step to building trust. What we need today is a truly independent president who will work with the govt on the issue of transparency, bringing along with him to office the mandate of the people and channelling these requests for information to the govt (SGEP Editor: Don't miss presidential hopeful TKL's comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 23:48:26 GMT[Media conference - concluding statements] Watch the final Q and As and the concluding statements - a message to all S'poreans on polling day..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 19:05:42 GMTTan Kin Lian: My involvement in the People's Action Partyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 19:02:51 GMTMessage from Goh Meng Senghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:59:57 GMT15 Reasons Why Singapore Does Not Need an Elected Presidenthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:57:59 GMTI am writing to highlight a recent practice some banks have adopted while granting housing loans. Banks have massive bargaining power when it comes to setting the terms of a loan and, without some limit placed on that power, consumers are at risk of being exploited (Leow Zi Xiang, Voices - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:49:43 GMT[What housing loan borrowers should know about 'all monies' clause] We refer to the letter from Mr Leow Zi Xiang, "A loan clause too far?" (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:42:19 GMT[Candy wrapper resistance] We have created a monster of a migrant worker policy that is almost designed to exploit the vulnerable. One of the key features of that policy, which renders all other better-intentioned aspects null and void, is that of giving employers a blank cheque..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:37:22 GMTIt's really about dignity .. dignity for these workers - the same dignity which we expect these foreign workers to show in caring for our sick, elderly and young.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:33:20 GMTI know what you drank last summer...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:28:47 GMTIn their Facebook page, Young PAP dedicated a YouTube video to their "growing appetite for power", casting aspersions on the Opposition party's true motives. In S'pore, Opposition parties are not allowed to wrestle for political power, or even think about eventually running the country. Such actions are punishable by Facebook humiliation and sharp rebuke in the nation's newspapers (NewNation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:22:12 GMTAsked by The Sunday Times on Saturday if WP aims to be a member of a coalition govt one day, sec-gen Low Thia Khiang said: 'I do not wish to respond to hypothetical questions, but as a matter of principle, WP is prepared to work with other political parties to further the interest of S'poreans and, when it is called upon, to act in the interest of the nation.' (ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:08:31 GMT[Medisave use for patients over 75] Ms Bysheim wrote in to the TODAY newspaper on 7 July appealing for her 75-year old diabetic father to be allowed to use his Medisave to pay his full bills for his regular check-ups and medication. The Workers' Party had in fact proposed in its 2011 Manifesto that..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 18:03:54 GMT[Revisiting Profiteering From Public Housing] I believe it is timely for the govt to re-visit the issue of HDB running a commercial arm (EM Services), a joint venture between HDB and Keppel, with the commercial interest of renting out HDB flats for profit. A full review of profiteering from public housing policy is long overdue.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 17:58:58 GMTMND reviews its reporting on town councils [SGEP Editor: lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 17:51:43 GMT[A Green Opportunity] Seven weeks into MND, I have been flooded with emails and FB comments, 99% of them on housing, quite understandably. But there were a few non-housing comments. I got one from a medical school student. She referred me to the Green Corridor Project being proposed by the Nature Society..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 17:49:11 GMT["The police officers have to handcuff the students for their own personal safety to prevent them from escaping or injuring others." - Singapore Police Force] You believe? Experts in bullying S'poreans, but when it comes to foreigners... tsk.. tsk..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 17:41:35 GMT[Long night of questioning for 80 youth: why the overreaction?] S'pore Police Force should have foreseen this problem and worked with the schools. As with most things, prevention is better than cure and could have saved the police a lot of manpower and paperwork which will now tie them up for quite some time.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 17:38:46 GMTAged between 12 and 21, the youths were allegedly part of a loan-sharking syndicate and helped out by distributing name cards and pamphlets advertising illegal moneylending activities. Leaving the police station with his son at midnight, the father said, "The bottom line is that these kids are innocent. At their age, how would they know they were working for loan sharks?" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 17:32:53 GMT[Tan Kin Lian - My message to the young people of Singapore] The Temasek Review: Say NO to PAP-endorsed President!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 04:37:43 GMT[What the presidential election guidelines really mean] PM appears to be indicating that he, and no one else, will dictate how the next Prez is elected and, in doing so, he will do all he can, as head of govt, to ensure the next head of state maintains some distance from the very people who decide his fate at the polls. All in all, one should ask if the guidelines are really..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 04:33:27 GMT[Tan Kin Lian debunks rumors that he did not stand for elections because he was not promised a ministerial position] ST: 'Sources tell us.... (that Mr Tan did not stand for elections because he was not promised a ministerial position)', but no names are quoted. What type of journalism is this?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 02:45:25 GMT[President - role and responsibilities] "I understand the role of the President" - speech given to my supporters.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 01:43:00 GMTThanks for your support. TR has reached its target of US$30,000http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 01:41:07 GMT[Dr Tony Tan's response to guidelines for the presidential election campaign] "I seek to be of service to the nation again."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 01:37:44 GMT[An epidemic of corpses] In recent days, parts of this law-and-order city, whose murder rate ranks as low as Japan's, resembled scenes from the American TV series "Crime Scene Investigation". Against its staid nature, 7 gruesome bodies have been found in various parts of the island since July 1, unrelated to each other - at a rate of one a day (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 01:02:18 GMTWhat would give a candidate the upper hand on TV appearances would be the ability to "look dignified and at the same time come across as personable and sincere". While eloquence would be a useful advantage, the key is in whether the candidate can make voters connect with them, and persuade them of their ability to "stay true to the oath of the office and the will to serve S'pore as a whole" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 00:54:54 GMT[Life and Debt : Predatory Lending in S'pore] The growth in demand for these illegal "fast and easy" loans is a manfestation of things going wrong in our society.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 00:38:57 GMT[WP working towards becoming govt] "There are 87 seats in Parliament. How many do we have right now? We've got 6 ... we will not be ready to form a govt till we got 44 good candidates, who are elected by the people. So, is that something we are working toward? Well, I think the short answer is yes. But at end of the day, with respect to that decision, it will not be made by WP, it will be made by people of S'pore." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 00:33:35 GMT£166m (S$330 million) EuroMillions top prize goes begging again after frenzied last-minute sales .. No-one won the record jackpot in today's EuroMillions draw. The top prize is now frozen and will be in place for the next draw on Tuesday (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 00:24:29 GMTWhat did PM Lee say at the Fullerton Rally? "Well, we're sorry we didn't get it exactly right, but I hope you'll understand and bear with us, because we're trying our best to fix the problems." Putting Tin Pei Ling in the Home Affairs and Law GPC will fix her problems with the police report alright (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 09 Jul 2011 00:08:40 GMTThere has been an increase in the number of younger S'poreans with pluralistic or diverse views on the country's political landscape. NUS political science lecturer Reuben Wong: "I think it's very normal in any country that the younger you are, the more anti-status quo you're likely to be. What's interesting is in S'pore, that we even asked this question. It should be the norm." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 23:54:20 GMT[Let's not stand on ceremony for MPs] This is especially so after the recent reminder by PM Lee to MPs, to remember that the nature of an MP's work is not a job but a 'service' to the people (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 23:42:26 GMT[WHY IS PAP LOSING CREDIBILITY?] A survey conducted by Institute of Policy Studies, which is a part of Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, has revealed fewer S'poreans regard PAP as a credible party (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 23:30:19 GMTCriticised by a court for its investigations into a brutal murder, the police responded with a statement in which they "acknowledge that legal procedures in relation to the recording of any confession should be observed". On Tuesday, Mr Ismil Kadar, 42, who had spent 6 years behind bars, walked out a free man. The judges said there were serious doubts about reliability of his police statements (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 22:53:03 GMT[Letter from Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics] Workers seen by HOME often lodge complaints about their employers not paying them on time, making arbitrary deductions to their salaries, and not paying them in accordance with S'pore's labour laws .. assault their workers or penalise them. Workers who lodge complaints may also be unfairly dismissed by their employers (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 22:42:01 GMTWe would like to thank Ms Sangeetha Bysheim, in "Let 75-year-old fully tap Medisave", and Mr Arthur Lim, in "Capacity and 3Ms". Specifically, both Ms Bysheim and Mr Lim proposed extending Medisave use for non-acute medical care. Indeed, we have done so in recent years (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 22:28:45 GMTFor S&CC arrears management, most town councils achieved a Level 1 rating. But Opposition-held Hougang and Potong Pasir fared worst in this area. Potong Pasir MP Sitoh Yi Pin, who took over from Chiam See Tong, said he was "a bit surprised and shocked" at the amount of arrears when he saw the financial books (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 22:24:09 GMTThere is no doubt consumers now have a variety of choices when it comes to buying insurance policies. As consumers, we may be familiar with some of these insurance policies but which one should come 1st? (Helen Neo is head of consumer banking, Maybank S'pore - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 22:01:08 GMT[CAD given yet more time for probe] Accounting firm appointed in April could only produce the expert report next month, and the report would be "crucial" in determining whether to press charges against the company (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 21:54:48 GMTMany cities stage gay pride parades on or around June 28, the anniversary of New York's Stonewall Inn uprising in 1969 -- what many consider the beginning of the gay rights movement. Collected here are photographs of people celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered pride around the world (BostonGlobe)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 21:47:05 GMTSingapore survey: Ruling party losing credibilityhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 16:23:25 GMTTKL Message to Young Singaporeans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 16:16:53 GMTDo you know Mr Tan has election website? You can go to http://www.tkl2011.com/ to read his statements, leave an endorsement, donate and more!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 16:14:25 GMTMinister's suggestion of a mandatory rest day for all domestic workers reignites a long-running debate over workers' rights (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 16:12:14 GMTDr Tony Tan said he welcomed 'clarity on the guidelines'. "I agree that the role of a President is fundamentally different from that of a MP. My campaign team and I look forward to working creatively and appropriately within the guidelines issued." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 14:49:34 GMTStatement from Tan Kin Lian on Guidelines on PE Campaigninghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 14:35:06 GMTThe full statement from the Prime Minister's Office (Straits Times)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:26:06 GMTAs wages rise in China for instance, industries are moving back to advanced economies like S'pore, driving up demand for workers here, deputy sec-gen of NTUC Ong Ye Kung said. "We are, therefore, likely to be at a turning point of history, from labour glut to labour crunch. This presents a whole new challenge to industries in the medium term -- how to find enough workers and continue to remain competitive?" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:22:47 GMTInterest rates are at an all-time low, but what will happen if rates begin to rise? (Colin Tan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:12:55 GMT[Public anxious about Minister Khaw's next steps] What would you like Khaw Boon Wan's first act as the new Minister for National Development to be?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:11:17 GMTAfter 3 rounds of cooling measures, what's next for Singapore buyers? (Tan Kok Keong - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:06:02 GMTWhen taken together with potential increase in supply of HDB flats in new towns, there is a worry that Outside Central Region residential demand may not keep pace with supply. To understand price movements in the OCR segment, let's dive into the details to get a clearer view of where prices are trending, and where the risks might be, if any (Ku Swee Yong - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:03:55 GMTMany buyers are prepared to pay a premium for developments in good locations, so shouldn't HDB take that into account when pricing flats? (Colin Tan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 08:57:16 GMTPresidential elections to use TV and online campaigninghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 08:51:37 GMTTan Kin Lian replies to Satay Clubhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 05:57:05 GMTIt seems that nowadays, the charge of xenophobia is often leveled against anyone who questions or posts anything critical of foreigners or non-citizens in S'pore. Is this an accurate portrayal of sentiments of those who object to their presence? When Brian Carillo, a Filipino who moved to S'pore 4 years ago wrote a contributing piece to The Satay Club.. (Furry Brown Dog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 05:52:58 GMT[Comment on Tan Kin Lian - by Rex] For the sake of proper discussion, i (Rex) will comment on the three objections raised..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 05:00:15 GMTMr Tan may be not be perfect, but he is sincere in serving fellow S'poreans. He is a humble man who takes public transport, not like some PAP elite who goes around being driven. Do you want another elite who is born with a golden spoon in his mouth to be our head of state?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 04:53:18 GMTFor all readers of my blog, I would like to emphasise again that my blog is NOT a TKL propaganda site. I might be supporting TKL but I welcome everyone. Being a TKL supporter, I obviously hope that Mr Tan wins. I will however be just as happy if Dr Tan Cheng Bock wins. I will only be sad if..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 02:29:45 GMTThe bragging rights seem to be about the Temasek portfolio hitting a record $193 billion. But where, may we ask, is the source of funds for the shopping spree? CPF board says the minimum sum revisions are to ensure S'poreans have sufficient savings to meet their healthcare expenses, nothing is mentioned about adding to the pool of play money for the Temasek guys (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 02:19:10 GMTThe debate is healthy but when pointing a finger, one has to be aware that the foreign talents should not be blamed for being here and taking away the jobs from local PMETs. Put it simply, if there is no policy to invite the foreign talents here, if the immigration door is not opened by the govt, no matter how hard the FTs tried, they will not be able to get in (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 01:20:48 GMTTan Kin Lian is an interesting figure to watch out for in the upcoming presidential election, and this press conference does give an interesting insight into Mr Tan Kin Lian.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 00:58:15 GMTSeen opening higher; SGX in focus (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 00:47:52 GMT[Social Apathy In S'pore: Starting With The Man In The Mirror] Recently, many individuals have brought up significant issues such as littering and the absence of graciousness amongst S'poreans. It is my belief that every S'porean should take the blame for pervading this deplorable culture of social apathy in our society.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 00:44:34 GMTI can't understand why he'd write, "I have been in MND for 5 weeks, and not sleeping well. I am working my guts out to try to calm the market, for the good of all S'poreans" in his blog. Damned! What does he expect? There is no free lunch. Not even for a heart attack patient! I know because having been there and done that [hit by AMI], I have had my fair share of, "You are a heart attack patient, so what? You want sympathy?" (FeedMeToTheFish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 08 Jul 2011 00:33:00 GMTAndrew Haldane, a top Bank of England official said Friday that rapid growth in so-called high frequency trading [HFT] has come to dominate stock markets and is raising "contagion" concerns. "It is not just talk. As recently as 2005, HFT accounted for less than a fifth of U.S. equity market turnover by volume. Today, it accounts for between two-thirds and three-quarters." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 23:33:33 GMT[Pay hike alone can't solve doctor shortage] I read with concern Health Minister Gan Kim Yong's announcement that his ministry will review salaries of doctors in an attempt to alleviate attrition of doctors in public hospitals. If we rely solely on compensation to retain talent in public health, we may inadvertently price out good physician care from the reach of ordinary S'poreans (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 22:19:12 GMT[Protect minors from commercial SMSes] I had subscribed to a mobile service plan from M1 for my daughter in Primary 4. Last month, there were some SMSes which were reflected as 'value-added services' in the bill. We were charged $12 for them. How can parents prevent such unauthorised transactions?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 22:12:55 GMTTan Kin Lian confident of being eligible to run for President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 21:38:37 GMTIt is an irony because this is the time when buyers should be the most objective, that they act emotionally and sometimes irrationally. The proposals by the authorities to make property buying more transparent mooted some time back could not have come at a better time (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 21:34:59 GMTWith a bullish S'pore dollar, favorable financing terms, geographical proximity, similar culture and background and, most importantly, family ties, Malaysia remains one of the top favourite property investment destinations for S'poreans. To help 1st-time investors, here are some things you should know about buying a residential property in M'sia (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 21:25:21 GMT[Tan Kin Lian for President's Photos] The background photo during July 7 media conference.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 17:47:37 GMT[Endorsement from Financial Freedom blog] Here is a personal perspective from the author of this blog ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 17:40:01 GMT[I can be the voice of the people: Tan Kin Lian] Mr Tan believes he can be the voice of the people not only because of his humble background, but also because he is not associated with the ruling PAP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 17:37:30 GMTUnfairly yours...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 17:22:40 GMT[Man accused of murder freed: state has to compensate] Apart from the issue of compensation, PM Lee cannot choose to remain silent over the "serious lapses" by the police and prosecutors. He has to address public disquiet over the potential for a miscarriage of justice when the overarching aim is to find an accused person guilty at all cost.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 17:17:22 GMTS'pore Education scholarships for foreign students (only): So it seems STB for some reason is tasked with enticing foreign students to study in S'pore, partly by offering them scholarships. Why is the S'pore Govt actively promoting S'pore as an education hub to the extent of excluding S'porean citizens from just under half of all those scholarships listed above? Why do they allow such discrimination against S'poreans?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 15:59:17 GMTHe described the process as "smooth", adding that the [Elections Dept] officer assisted in verifying the details in his application forms and ensuring they are in order (SGEP Editor: lots of Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 14:21:48 GMT[Albums - 07/07/2011] Tan Kin Lian and Tony Tan submit Presidential bids.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 14:15:17 GMTWho shall we support - Tan Kin Lian or Tan Cheng Bock assuming both get to contest? We have to be united to ensure Tony Tan does not get another chance to 'serve' us again!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 14:10:49 GMTTan Kin Lian submits his bid to stand for Presidential Election 2011 - Press Conference Q&A Final Parthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:57:47 GMTTan Kin Lian submits his bid to stand for Presidential Election 2011 - Press Conference Q & A Part 4http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:56:24 GMTTan Kin Lian submits his bid to stand for Presidential Election 2011 - Press Conference Q & A Part 3http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:55:19 GMTTan Kin Lian submits his bid to stand for Presidential Election 2011 - Press Conference Q & A Part 2http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:54:05 GMTTan Kin Lian submits his bid to stand for Presidential Election 2011 - Press Conference Q & A Part 1http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:53:04 GMTTan Kin Lian submits his bid to stand for Presidential Election 2011 - Press Conferencehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 13:48:19 GMTSIA, the main backer of Tiger Airways and the pride of S'pore, is the top airline in the world and yet, Tiger was grounded due to "safety". So there must be a fire under all these smoke and as a Singaporean, I would like to know just how big the fire is (Musings From the Lion City)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 12:26:20 GMT[S'porean to Pinoy: We are not competing on equal grounds] An excellent rebuttal to the Filipino Brian Carillo - by a Singaporean.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 12:11:42 GMTLast week, I contributed an article to The Satay Club. In the last couple of days, threads about me have sprung up all over the internet. Some users attacked me personally.. Some even went one step further, making blanket statements about Filipinos in general. A couple of these statements, particularly those about women, were disrespectful, bigoted and highly offensive (Brian Carillo - TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 12:06:33 GMT[Survey on unemployment in Singapore] We hope to receive a hundred survey returns so that we can put up a short paper to the relevant ministry after analysing it.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 11:54:55 GMT[Presidential Election to be held after National Day?] Analysts believe the possibility of having the election before National Day is extremely unlikely, given the President's role during the NDP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 11:48:32 GMT['I hope to have the opportunity to serve S'pore and S'poreans again.' --- PAP-endorsed candidate and former SPH Chief Dr Tony Tan] Do you want to pay $4 million for him to 'serve' you AGAIN?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 11:37:42 GMT[Zaobao journalist used the wrong Facebook account to criticize Tan Kin Lian] A honest mistake or a deliberate misrepresentation?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 11:06:23 GMTTan Kin Lian risks losing the support of the pro-opposition bloc because of perceptions that he is unreceptive towards criticism. He has also allegedly exercised heavy-handed censorship on his own blog and social media pages - users have reported that individuals have been banned for posting negative comments about him, and at least one was openly rebuked by him and told to stop visiting the website.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 10:50:03 GMT[The Race is on as two Tri-Tans apply for eligibility certificate] Mr TKL's positioning is reasonable as he is staying the course in terms of giving a voice to aspirations of the people and difficulties they face, and yet at the same time also indicating such a stance need not mean an adversarial relationship between EP and govt. It does however mean that as president, TKL would not remain largely silent or compliant if he saw fit to speak his mind.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 10:23:29 GMT[Chan Chun Sing's "reform" call hews to form] It is depressing how quickly brand new ministers adopt the mindset of the old guard. Chan Chun Sing has just showed himself to be a breath of stale air .. he effectively told people to shut up if they had no suggestions worth implementing.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 10:21:51 GMT[Presidential Election Watch Part II - Tony Tan As EP - Too Close For Comfort ? ] Is this closeness between Tony Tan and the PAP Government and Party then too close for comfort? Let me illustrates and query further. [De Leviathan @ Sg ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 09:10:11 GMT[Guided by the right values - Ivy Singh] I am not a Tan Kin Lian supporter but I am a supporter of his 5 very good values of honesty, fairness, positive attitude, courage, and public service. The key word HONESTY is very often missing from the vocabulary of people, especially politicians.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 06:27:20 GMT'I can be independent. I have never been a minister or a MP. I am not associated with the past policies of PAP.' (StraitsTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 06:23:53 GMTThe Elections Dept has yet to respond to questions from SDP regarding the voting process during the last GE. It is important the Dept conducts its investigations expeditiously and respond to SDP queries as this will affect the conduct of the presidential elections which is just weeks away. For this reason, S'poreans should take a keen interest in the matter and ask the ELD to deal with the matter on an urgent basis (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 06:19:36 GMTMOM, can i have day-off?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 06:11:35 GMTWhat causes the baby shortage...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 06:08:54 GMTChina's booming economy has been showing signs of slowing down in recent months. Is China's spending on huge public works a worthwhile investment, or does the accumulating debt pose a threat to the Chinese economy? Six experts share their views (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 03:11:27 GMT[The Fun Pack Cringe] The organizers said something about being creative and lighthearted. If this is the showcase of creativity, then we are in serious trouble. As for lightheartedness - does being the laughing stock count? We do have good musicians in S'pore. Get them to write the songs. You want lighthearted, a lyricist comes to mind - Mr Brown.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 02:59:04 GMT[The shady business practices of GLCs] Since its inception, PAP has cultivated the image that it is squeaky clean. Strangely, this image does not seem to extend to the way GLCs are run. In their forays overseas, GLCs have repeatedly gotten into trouble with foreign govts for shady business practices.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 02:34:33 GMTA closer look at causes of these accidents point to failure to follow simple rules inside the subway station. For example.. (AsianCorrespondent)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 02:33:18 GMT[Media conference - Tan Kin Lian] I am holding a media conference at 10 am at Bayview Hotel. After the conference, I will be submitting my application for the Certificate of Eligibility at the Election Dept in Prinsep Street.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 02:11:35 GMT[The World's Highest Quality Of Life Is Still In Europe] Every year, Monocle Magazine calculates the best cities in the world to live in, and the 2011 results are in.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 01:59:11 GMT[Excuse me, did the PM just say sorry?] Unfortunately, the ministers, who did not seem to say sorry, had retired. The MP who had not said sorry seemed to be in danger of being kicked out. On the other hand, the PM, who not only kept apologizing but actually appeared to be doing something about the complaints, was gaining popularity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 01:27:51 GMTPM Lee told water experts that the main challenges to providing clean water and sanitation to Asia's cities are not technical or even economic - they are political and social. Notice the item "Water Conservation Tax" in your monthly water bill. To add insult to injury, GST is applied on top of the tax. That's tax upon tax, double taxation. So how does the govt get away with it? Simple.. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 01:20:14 GMTWeak start likely on China rate hike; Tiger in focus (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 00:49:49 GMTA glass of milk can contain a cocktail of up to 20 painkillers, antibiotics and growth hormones, scientists have shown .. the results highlight how man-made chemicals are now found throughout the food chain (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 07 Jul 2011 00:21:16 GMTThe security flaw in Apple's iOS operating system came to light Wednesday as the website www.jailbreakme.com released code that Apple customers can use to modify the iOS operating system through a process known as "jail breaking." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 23:50:22 GMT'No responsible politician should be swayed by populist pressure. There is a place for empathetic discernment and wisdom to differentiate between unreasonable populist pressure by special interest groups, and the genuine plea for help to cope better with life.' (Daniel Koh Kah Soon - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 23:34:33 GMT[Presidency: What do new voters know?] One duty of the president is to unify the people. Presidential candidates should therefore refrain from over-campaigning, not only in campaign messages but also in form, style and budget. If we need more time to address the concerns, it may be wiser to postpone the election for a few months (Ng Ya Ken)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 23:24:58 GMT['Failed delivery' poser] I arrived at my office to find a 'failed delivery' postal notice. I asked the postman, who was 4 doors away, if I could get my parcels from him. He replied it was not possible as he did not bring the parcels with him; he had assumed no one would be in the office. The same thing happened last week. Why does SingPost dispatch postmen on delivery trips without parcels? (See Han Xiang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 23:09:27 GMT[CUTTING POLYCLINIC QUEUES: Ministry urges bosses to accept MCs from any doctor] In his letter: 'Simple ways to cut polyclinic queues', Dr Yik Keng Yeong felt that the queues are long because patients go there to get referred for subsidised treatment in hospitals, and because employers recognise MCs issued only by govt clinics. Under the Employment Act, employers can choose to accept MCs issued by private doctors (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:59:47 GMT[Fighting cancer is about attitude...] Mr Alvin Choo offered valuable insights: 'Spotting cancer early is easier said than done'. Yet, these are not good reasons to capitulate in our fight against cancer. Rather, the culprit is attitude.. Resignation and passivity cannot be in our vocabulary any step of the way (Dr Yik Keng Yeong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:50:52 GMT[Planning for a more 'turbulent ride'] Climate change is a "stark reminder" that "so called one in a hundred year events now occur at time intervals considerably less than a hundred" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:41:39 GMT[My top 10 ungracious acts seen daily] By the way, these are everyday occurrences. Singapore a gracious society? I think not (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:34:20 GMT[Stop making excuses, it's about trying] I am amazed by the letter, "Hectic pace trumps manners". So when our society fails to live up to expectations, we blame it on a hectic life? (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:29:20 GMTThe 42-year-old has no intention of taking any legal action for the time he lost in prison, his lawyer, Mr R Thrumurgan, told MediaCorp. "He just wants to move on." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:25:20 GMT[Public debt, private prosperity for Asia] It's not inconceivable that some Asian govts might go the way of Greece one day.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:22:48 GMTMention gambling and glitzy images of Las Vegas come to mind. But you'll be surprised to know Americans are not the world's biggest gamblers. In fact, the world's biggest gambling nations include plenty of unlikely candidates (CNBC, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:20:25 GMT[Does the Singapore President have any real political power?] The door to the EP repeating what the late President Ong Teng Cheong did is now closed. The PAP executive will make sure that as long as they are in charge, no EP can again attempt what Mr Ong tried. For the 2nd part of this article, I will examine what powers the EP is supposed to have, and how the PAP executive can curtail them if it chooses to.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 20:53:08 GMT[Apologies for erroneous post and wrongly accusations of Temasek] Temasek had in fact earned a nice profit from this sales despite doubtful accounts being discovered.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 16:17:29 GMT[Man accused of murder freed: challenge to PM Lee's Cabinet to witness execution] The frightening thing about the death penalty is its finality. New evidence that may emerge later proving a prisoner's innocence will be purely academic. I challenge Mr Lee Hsien Loong's cabinet and all PAP MPs to watch an execution by hanging, if they have the guts.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 16:08:57 GMTNSP has elected lawyer Jeannette Chong-Aruldoss as Vice-President, its 2nd woman leader for a top post. In June, it elected Ms Hazel Poa as Sec-Gen, making her the 1st woman Sec-Gen of a political party in S'pore since independence.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 15:59:13 GMTAn endorsement for Tan Kin Lian.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 15:54:13 GMTFacebook groups, such as the Say No to the Obedient Wives Club in Singapore coalition, stress that "women are equal to men and we, in S'pore, should keep it that way". Local rights organisations, such as AWARE, have also expressed dismay at the OWC's seemingly regressive stance on women's rights (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 15:36:49 GMTS'pore celebrities like Kym Ng, Belinda Lee, Pierre Png, Paul Foster and model Stephanie Carrington, will also do some ballroom dancing to the tune of evergreen hits "Rose, Rose, I Love You" and "Ding Dong" (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 13:03:41 GMT[Why we need a President - Ivy Singh] First of all, the question to ask is "DO WE NEED A PRESIDENT?" and if the answer is yes, then we must ask ourselves "WHY, WHAT FOR and WHO SHOULD IT BE?"...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:58:31 GMTHow much of our National Reserves are really left?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:51:15 GMTHelp Needed For Hougang Resident Mr. Jhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:48:40 GMTTons of Myanmarese (plus Pinoys) Fighting for Technician Jobs in Singaporehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:44:33 GMTEx-analyst with hedge fund industry earning $250 000 upwards now joblesshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:40:19 GMT[Atrocious police work: murder conviction overturned] It is true S'poreans seem to have a high level of trust in our govermental and judicial institutions, but I think that trust is misplaced. It is the result of a msm singing the praises of these institutions over decades. Put their work under a microscope, and it can look sickening rotten.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:36:39 GMTMan jailed for 6 years acquitted of murder charges (SGEP Editor: lots of Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:26:32 GMT[Police and Prosecution's "serious lapses" almost sent an innocent man to the gallows] TRE understands from person close to Mr Ismil's family that they intend to sue the Singapore Police Force and Attorney-General's Chamber for prosecutorial neglect.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:22:45 GMTIt is so bad even the Strait Times is asking if this is the worst NDP ever. Seriously, what were the organizers thinking? Even if you want to copy someone, surely there are better songwriters out there than Lady Gaga! Yes, it's that bad (Musings From the Lion City)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 11:02:36 GMT[NDP organisers pull back modified version of Lady Gaga's song] The song has become controversial on social media after a video was uploaded on YouTube, with only about 100 'likes' but more than 3,000 'dislikes' as of 4pm Wednesday.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 10:47:54 GMT[We have suggestions but how many will PAP take heed?] As a fellow S'porean, we should try our best to help the country as well. For a start, I want to suggest to Chan Chun Sing the following..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 05:53:38 GMT'Don't throw stones... offer better ideas' (SGEP Editor: reading the Readers' Responses is non-stop fun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 05:46:59 GMTOver the years, there may have been a few duds but this one may just take the cake (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 05:05:59 GMT[An interesting comparison] Once again featuring my favorite local satire comic. Somehow this post seem so true and ironic.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 05:00:19 GMT[PAP appoints Tin Pei Ling as member of Home Affairs and Law GPC] How can a MP who is suspected of commiting a crime be allowed to sit on a GPC in Home Affairs and Law itself? Will the police now dare to take action against Ms Tin who is now sitting on the GPC overseeing them? Rule of law or rule of connections?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 04:53:51 GMTS'pore's Temasek sold stakes in 2 of China's biggest banks Wednesday to raise US$3.6 billion, in a move likely aimed at reducing the sovereign investor's big exposure to the financial sector and building up a warchest (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 04:30:06 GMTThe EuroMillions jackpot will hit an estimated £166 million (S$330 million) after no winner emerged last night. The prize money, which would create the biggest winner in Europe if a single ticket-holder scooped the lot, will now roll over to Friday's contest (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 04:18:58 GMT[Landslide victory of 65% to 70% for Tan Cheng Bock, if Tan Kin Lian is Disqualified] Mr TKL has gotten into trouble again. Unhappy that Mr Tan appears to be winning over support of many S'poreans, PAP got President Nathan to make statements that it is dangerous for a President to be a populist.. obviously targeted at Mr TKL who has said he wants to be the Voice of the People.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 03:59:15 GMTYou can't spell "DONATION" without "NATION" and "DO".http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 02:17:45 GMT["You have to get the price right so that people understand that this is a scarce resource and will value it," PM Lee said] Now we know why ministers' salaries are so high.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 02:15:37 GMTBy conducting the visit and survey, Singapore Democrats will gather data and, in the process, get a better idea of their needs as well as how to formulate our policies in combatting poverty at the national level (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 02:11:37 GMT"Is this a govt of ordinary people, or is this a govt for a special breed of men?"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 01:58:43 GMTSupposing a July election is called, it will probably be held on Saturday, 30 July, with Nomination Day falling on 20 July. If the govt decides that the PE is to be held in August, it will most probably be held on Saturday, 27 August. Nomination Day will fall on 17 August (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 01:53:52 GMT"To reiterate, the duty of the prosecution is not to secure a conviction at all costs...", Justice V K Rajah reminded the bungling cops who nearly dispatched a man with an IQ of only 73 to the gallows for a murder he did not commit. The redeeming element in this sad tale is that lawyer R Thrumurgan stood by his client during the 6 years he was locked up. "It is a privilege to do what we do, to save a life." (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 01:36:00 GMTIn a preview of Singapore's national day celebrations, badly-mangled version of "Bad Romance" makes its debut (NewNation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 01:26:11 GMTA former senior director at S'pore-based Flextronics International pleaded guilty Tuesday, telling a U.S. judge he was paid US$200 an hour by an expert network firm to spill inside information to hedge funds (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 00:24:43 GMT[Is there room for respect?] Disagreeing with someone, even vehemently, does not mean one is free to resort to whatever kinds of speech or behaviour. On the contrary, and if you truly believe in democracy, one should instead accord respect to those who were elected - and in this way, one also respect those who elected these people. Otherwise, it all becomes a mockery..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 00:15:21 GMTI never tot anything could top the recent misadventures of Rin Tin Rin [or Kate Spade Tin] or MG Chan or Nathan [asking us to pay him to tell us what he did when he was in office]. Anyway, with clowns like these organising the national day parade, what hope is there that the housing, flooding and other problems that matter to S'poreans can be solved? (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 00:10:57 GMT[Getting creative: Looking back to old S'pore for inspiration] 1 step forward, 2 steps back. A photographer, a graphic design duo and a fashion designer are embracing S'pore's colorful past to inject fresh ideas into their work.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 00:05:48 GMT"National Museum remains focused on S'pore history" (Chairman, National Heritage Board - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 06 Jul 2011 00:01:25 GMT[SIA Cargo pilots now 'on a par with those at SIA'] The pilots of SIA Cargo, the cargo subsidiary of national carrier SIA, have successfully concluded their 1st collective agreement with the company (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 23:39:21 GMTTapping into the long-term expansion of the region's burgeoning consumer mindset and infrastructure needs - through investments that cast a net beyond its shock-prone stock markets - is a better bet (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 23:27:49 GMTOn Mr Nazaruddin's present whereabouts, the spokesman said: "I do not know, as we do not track people after they leave Singapore." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 23:18:56 GMTThis is obviously a desperate move to dispose off questionable chinese national banks with high links with a corrupt chinese govt. So who are the management of Temasek accountable to, at the end of the day? The citizens deserve a clear answer and some responsibilities taken (Scrutinizing the S'pore govt)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 23:13:28 GMTA Temasek spokesman declined to comment (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 23:02:24 GMT[Spotting cancer early is easier said than done] According to Dr Wong Chiung Ing ['Cancer is a word, not a sentence'], once cancer is diagnosed early, the disease is no longer a death sentence. Herein lies the nexus of the conundrum: timely diagnosis. Cancer is not an illness that lends itself easily to early diagnosis.. (Alvin Choo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 22:56:14 GMT[Cancer shock, then long wait for specialist] My faher, who is 75 years old, was referred to AMK Polyclinic by a GP as he had a lump in his throat. Without performing any necessary test, the attending doctor informed my father he had cancer .. then referred to TTSH to consult a specialist but earliest date was 2 months later. How could such a situation happen? (Pauline Low)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 22:42:31 GMT[SIA cabin crew all at sea, in the air] At one point, up to 8 cabin crew members clustered around her, and not one was able to react appropriately. It was as though they had never encountered an unconscious passenger before (Melvin Heng)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 22:35:21 GMTAs long as there is an abundance of liquidity and buyers are prepared to pay, there is no incentive for developers and property owners to lower their high asking prices. However, the real issue is not whether property prices will eventually fall, but when it will actually happen. And when it does happen, it will likely be brought about by changing financing conditions rather than increasing transaction fees or controlling ownership (Getty Goh - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 15:40:00 GMTMG Chan Chun Sing extending an invitation to TR readers to attend his monthly forum: "Come and join me at Buona Vista CC every first Friday of the month to see how I engage the youths in policy concerns of our country." Will you accept his invitation?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 13:59:04 GMT[Certificate of Eligibility for Tan Kin Lian] I am applying for the certificate under a special clause. More details here.. "My supporters are aware that I have to get the Certificate of Eligibility before I can contest the election and this is not a certainty."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 13:29:40 GMTIf you are buying a property, you really need to be aware of this trend. You may enjoy cheap money now and pay little interest, but a sudden turn of economy will let you end up having an expensive loan. I always think there are some lessons to be learned from the Greece debt crisis even as an individual. BBC has a quick report and analysis. I repeat them in 7 boxes and relate them to the S'pore situation (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 10:43:10 GMTI stated before that Tan Cheng Bock must be bonkers if he honestly [or rather naively] thinks his take on the 1987 so-called Marxist conspiracy can be buried and hidden from public scrutiny. Sure, Tan Kin Lian might have been CEO for 30 years with a business that manages capital of $20 billion and beyond, but I just hope he will not join the club for the bonkers if he thinks that doubts about his eligibility can be buried as well. Because I hate false hope. Likewise for the multitudes out there who are counting on him (Belmont Lay)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 08:48:57 GMTThe narrative used by President Nathan is all too familiar, couched in the all too familiar language of the PAP PR machinery. And I am inclined to think that more opportunities will be created by the msm in the closing days of President Nathan's presidency to allow him to lend his weight to the promotion of one presidential candidate over the others, namely Tony Tan (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 08:43:20 GMT[Affordable HDB flats] The problem has become so large that even Minister Khaw is having sleepless nights. To make HDB flats affordable, we have to get away from the concept of using recent tender prices to fix the market price of land. I will write more about this matter, and cover a few related issues, within the next few days.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 08:25:09 GMTChen Show Mao is a shining example that the best and most talented S'poreans are indeed willing to step forward in the name of public service, risks and all. He also disproves the notion that politicians need to be paid top-dollar, private sector salaries in order to lure them away from the corporate world (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 08:18:47 GMTI was reluctant to write this post. Now I can understand the need to improve her image. However, this frequent reporting by ST does her no good.. especially when one compares with the coverage today of "straitstime - Sylvia Lim likely to go into Law Practice" and its loaded first line.. does not put ST in a good light for unbiased reporting (SpeakSpokeWriteWrote)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 04:45:26 GMTLess than 2 months after resigning from Temasek Polytechnic where she lectured in law, WP chairman Sylvia Lim has taken steps to re-enter the legal sector] However, her move to re-enter the legal circuit is in line with her statement then that she had no plans to be a full-time MP, and would instead explore career options that would give her more flexible hours (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 04:38:47 GMT[Electing a President with limited powers] This message is sent by my supporter to his friends who are cynical about electing a President that has limited powers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 04:20:38 GMTThe PAP wasn't populist? Come on. Grow up! I worry that PAP will become even more populist coming up with all sorts of excuses to raid the reserves in order to win the next elections. It would help if one of their own, namely Tony Tan, becomes President (Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 04:16:58 GMT[S'pore Govt Scholarships: Poor minority representation and a way forward?] The weekend was noteworthy for 2 somewhat related bits of news. 1st, I received the July/August 2011 copy of Challenge, a bimonthly publication of the PSD, PMO. The same weekend also saw the hosting of the SINDA Community Forum.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 04:08:34 GMT[Republished: The Two-Tier Society] The Asia Mag requested to republish my previous post: The Two-Tier Society. You can see it here. It's always gratifying when one's work is read and appreciated. Thanks, Asia Mag!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 03:35:29 GMTThe DBSS is now like a piece of rotten shit, smelly and filthy and likely to be thrown away. Next in line will be the EC, while the BTO is likely to go as well. It took great ingenuity and determination and great effort to solve the housing problem of old S'pore. And it took great effort and ingenuity to create this mountain of problem for a new man to solve. And he is complaining. Take care, Boon Wan (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 03:30:01 GMT[Taking risky bets with our reserves] At the U.S. ambassador's (Independence Day) reception last night , a S'porean asked me, "Mr. Tan, if you are the President and there is another global financial crisis, will you allow our GIC to make an investment such as the risky purchase of Citibank? How would you stop it?"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 03:00:15 GMT["Why should I pay maintenance if I can't even see my children at all?"] Abdullah cut a forlorn figure at the family court as Andrew and I accompanied him to the court chamber on a warm Tuesday afternoon. Andrew is the founder and ex chief editor of TOC.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 02:57:18 GMT[Dear Mr Chan Chun Sing... ] Police harassed us, agents followed us, PAP politicians complained about us via mainstream media. Do you know how it is like, to keep on advocating for what one truly believes in and face the risk of police harassment? Do you know... Do you know?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 02:22:03 GMT["You go down New York, Broadway. You will see the beggars, people of the streets... Where are the beggars in Singapore? Show me."] The number of homeless picked up by MCYS reached an all time high last year. It looks like MCYS has a lot to do. It also looks like the former minister in charge had his priorities misplaced somewhere, providing lush accommodation for foreign athletes while denying a basic roof for Singapore's destitute (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 02:04:06 GMTIf you are looking for pictures of poster boy and poster girl for the PAP, look no further. Chan Chun Sing and Tin Pei Ling will fit it nicely. And the timely stepping down of MM and SM will also mean their ageing photos will not be seen too often. PAP is now a brand new party of young and beautiful leaders (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 01:59:44 GMTIn spite of India's universities churning out some 2 million graduates every year, there has been no Bill Gates or a Nobel laureate among them in a long time. The education system that rewards rote learning over originality and creativity seems to be at fault (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 01:52:21 GMTFrom where I left off on the previous post, the 0800 Ekspres Rakyat left Tanjong Pagar late at 0838.. (SGEP Editor: Great write-up. Great photos. - Jerome Lim)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 01:29:17 GMTIf you are the kind of person who always sees your glass as half full, you are likely to have a healthier heart (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 01:19:37 GMT"Hackers sent out several malicious and false tweets that President Obama had been assassinated," Foxnews.com said in a statement about the latest in a wave of high-profile cyber security breaches around the world. "Those reports are incorrect, of course, and the president is spending the July 4 holiday with his family." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 01:14:42 GMTIt is unfortunate the Minister characterises well-meaning calls for liberalisation of the political system as one of tearing down the country. PAP often paints extreme scenarios whenever people express the desire for democratic freedoms. In this way, it avoids answering the question while at the same time, caricaturises people who want a more open system in a negative light (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 00:11:20 GMT[Articles of law by BHAG SINGH] Proper examination of any document that is signed is very important. However, individuals often find it too tedious to examine them carefully, for whatever reasons. The tendency is to think that all will be well. However, when all is not well, there may be consequences where remedy is not available (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 05 Jul 2011 00:00:30 GMTI am never more determined to contest this presidential election. I want S'pore united in transparency, integrity, and independent thinking . I will not back off.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 23:50:29 GMT[Dr Tony Tan vs Dr Tan Cheng Bock -- PAP Elite vs PAP Grassroots] Recently Dr Tan Cheng Bock released a statement saying he was determined to run for the PE. Many had thought he was replying to Mr Tan Kin Lian. In truth, he was actually telling the PAP Elite to stop calling him because he was not going to change his mind.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 23:36:04 GMTThere are eligible female candidates in S'pore including entrepreneurs, writers, ambassadors, politicians and professionals. There is nothing wrong in a 4-cornered contest that includes a woman candidate (Dr V P Nair - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 23:33:22 GMTPresident S R Nathan described criticism against him as "noise in the environment". It cannot be stopped, hence there is no point adding to it (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 23:27:32 GMTI am reposting this article from TOC [TRE?]. It's a completely honest piece of work and it speaks much of how I feel too. I have mentioned in my earlier post that I do not think much of MG (NS) Chan Chun Sing. While he came from a humble background, much of his humility had been corrupted by his smooth sailing life as a top-down speaking, high earning and powerful army high flier and politician (Scrutinizing the Sg govt)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 23:22:33 GMTIf this is a member of the "new leadership" that PM Lee has faith in to lead S'poreans as "servants and not masters", then we are screwed. Big time! If idiots believe that alternative views are nothing more than "throwing stones" at PAP, very soon, 60% would become 40%, and vice versa! (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 23:13:37 GMTAs the dining scene here flourishes, diners are demanding authenticity that is often found in small, home-style restaurants (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 22:36:57 GMTMore proactive reviews of maid policies needed (Alice Cheah, Managing Director, Caregivers Centre)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 22:33:11 GMT[Sent from pillar to post for latest broadband] We called OpenNet to inquire about subscription procedure... However, when we contacted StarHub, we were told only OpenNet could do the installation. We then called OpenNet again but they claimed otherwise.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 22:28:59 GMT[SMS blocking assurance goes awry] A year ago, I had called SingTel to block all 3rd-party SMSes and premium content services as I had received messages from 77877 which was charged at $6 each. I did not receive the SMSes any more until this month but I ignored them. When my bill arrived, there was a charge of $30 for five SMSes.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 22:24:53 GMT[GE 2011 - the Noise and Humor of Rallies] Yakov Smirnoff, a comedian from Russia, teaches "The Business of Laughter", once complained that when a comedian in his country tells a joke, people look around to see who is watching them before they laugh. In our case, in GE 2011, the response was spontaneous and uninhibited. This is change.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 22:18:50 GMT[Political sacrifices, political choices] A friend recently posed this question: If you were M.D. of your company, would you give it all up like Show Mao did? My answer: I didn't wait to find out .. Ultimately, I think the most important thing to ask yourself is: Do you feel a calling into politics?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 22:03:02 GMTIn January, I had called on HDB to get out of the DBSS program when it should be busy catering to the thousands clamouring for more affordable housing. Finally, MND appears to be seeing the light and said in a statement yesterday it is reviewing the scheme (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 21:53:13 GMTKhaw Boon Wan suspends DBSS land sale (SGEP Editor: lots of Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 21:48:58 GMT"We're going to make NTU a tourist attraction". Okay, that explains recent fee hike despite huge surpluses nesting in reserve account. And we thought they were building better libraries or bringing in qualified academics who are more passionate about teaching than spending money (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 21:43:48 GMTProf Andersson also shed light on coming projects in NTU .. The $45-million building, which will be open 24 hours and has a cafe, is expected to be ready by 2013. A 2nd such learning hub - to be completed by 2015 - is also in the pipeline (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 21:31:43 GMTIn his blog, Khaw Boon Wan commented on the stress of his new job, "I have been in MND for five weeks and not sleeping well." Perhaps if he were more open and transparent with the public, and come clean with the HDB costings, the minister might be able to have a better night's rest. Or he could continue to share the guilt-ridden lot of Macbeth.. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 15:10:53 GMT[Do not rule out Andrew] Even though Kuan was ruled out in 2005, with the growing political climate, who knows there may be a reversal of such an action. Besides, he could be the only "candidate" who is not a former PAP member.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 14:12:24 GMT[The Presidential Election...] I hope Tan Kin Lian runs, but I will respect him as much if he decides not to. It is a big personal decision because the post comes with a complete change in life, decorum and total loss of privacy. Also, Tan Kin Lian has shown he can contribute when the need arises without being president, and the position comes with ceremonial duties that will take up a lot of time.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 13:15:47 GMT[How Independent Is Dr Tony Tan?] PAP leaders have endorsed Dr Tony Tan as a PAP candidate, however tacitly, but nevertheless an endorsement. So where is the independence? The electorial mood now is to shun the white. The pro-PAP votes will go to Dr Tony Tan, and any votes for Mr Tan Kin Lian can only come at the expense of Dr Tan Cheng Bock's anti-establishment votes with disastrous effect on the latter's election success.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 12:36:07 GMTI refer to this article 'What has Tony Tan done for university education?' by Luke Ng posted to Temasek Review. The writer makes several misleading claims which are addressed below .. In short, Tony Tan and future education ministers repeatedly rebutted calls.. It was none other than Chiam See Tong whose calls which repeatedly fell on deaf ears, until it was apparent.. (Furry Brown Dog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 10:18:21 GMTOver in Thailand, the majority is not desperate to put someone with an elite background on the pedestal. Over here in S'pore, we have desperate insecure voters with poverty of mind [not pockets] who still believe academic achievement means EVERYTHING. After a certain threshold, politicians are all the same. Hence, as a responsible voter, you must know what 'the job' means, to begin with. If not, you are merely signing a blank cheque by giving them your vote (Blinkymummy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 10:10:23 GMT"I've done this all these years, and I'm very pleased to be able to do it because NUS is also my alma mater. I've had the pleasure of seeing many students graduate and every time I shake their hand, the light in their eyes - some of them joke with me, the others are respectful. Like today, somebody said, thank you for being our president for so long. So he touched (me)". CNAhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 10:03:56 GMTAfter the last GE, things took a dramatic change. Hsien Loong took the lead to apologise to the people for the govt's mistakes and pledged to listen more to the people. Some are still learning and still talking down to the people. That is the advantage of being young. Young men tended to be a bit more cocky, a natural trait (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 09:58:08 GMT"PAP is profiteering from DBSS Land Sales", screamed a well-regarded blog yesterday. Much as it reflects ground sentiments, I must disagree with the utterly misleading headline. 1st, it's not PAP that's "profiteering", it's the Govt. Big difference, ok? 2nd, "profiteering" is a very strong word, with a very specific meaning, and is totally unjustified here (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 09:46:06 GMT"S'poreans consistently give harsher assessments of fellow S'poreans and are more forgiving towards themselves. The findings showed an unhealthy level of self-centeredness and self-absorption, and not being aware of and not appreciating the efforts of others. This is the attitude that we want to change." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 09:33:36 GMTUnlike its peers, S'pore's economy has been largely state-planned. Why not a greater support to SMEs where they could follow govt initiative or seek to create paths on its own, which would be more resilient in the face of a possible global recession, as compared to highly exposed MNCs? (UnbiasedElectorate)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 09:17:15 GMT"Pending the ongoing review, HDB will not proceed with the sale of the Bendemeer Road site, originally scheduled in 1H2011," MND said in a statement (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 05:33:39 GMTMalay Lady With Engineering Master Degree Prefers Living Abroadhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 02:43:18 GMTPAP supporter described netizen as case study for 'lunatic fringe' and accused him of 'barking' at her like a 'dog'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 02:16:44 GMTTeochew that is! The performances were part of the S'pore Food Trail's initiatives to bring us back to the heyday of Teochew Opera on the streets of S'pore in the 1960s (SGEP Editor: great photos. Jerome Lim)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 02:04:43 GMTAccording to this report, there was a "complaint from the United Arab Emirates accusing a group of S'pore doctors, including [Susan] Lim" (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 01:58:50 GMT[Why I support Mr Tan Kin Lian - Catherine Kwang] What you see is what you get. Not pretentious, not trying to please people but just being himself. This is his greatest strength. This is my kind of President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 01:40:47 GMT[Black Sunday on 17 July to say 'NO' to sky-rocketing HDB flat prices] Presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian will be attending the event as well.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 01:37:12 GMTAnswering the above questions will definitely help the voters decide who they will elect. These are now the real issues that the voters are asking (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 01:21:33 GMTWhen Chen Show Mao returned to stand for the GE, some questioned his motives and sincerity as if he was a wolf in sheepskin. Today, we heard he had resigned from a high profile and very high paying job, to be an ordinary MP, to serve the people in the tropical heat of a void deck. Again, the skeptics and those with private agenda would be wagging their tongues about this new kid in the block. What is he up to? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 01:04:42 GMTWhereas I had - previously in a post - focused on more macro recommendations, such as gradually reducing conscription years given the advances in mechanisation, I will share comparatively micro concerns in this commentary (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 00:16:17 GMTIs the role played by the President worth $11.6 million spent on it? Why rely on the President's curtailed and artificial powers as a check on the system when the Opposition can do same job at a much lower cost? (Ghui - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 00:11:13 GMTThe Opposition parties have been pretty quiet about the coming PE. Hopefully, thet are keeping quiet until they know whether there will be be a contest or not. This is the message the 4 leading Opposition parties should articulate, if they want to fix the PAP. "Fellow S'poreans ... Vote for the candidate you think least represents the views of PAP. Vote wisely." (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 00:07:52 GMT[Khaw Boon Wan accidentally proves PAP is profiteering from DBSS Land Sales] In slamming BT, I wonder if the following logic has somehow escaped Minister Khaw .. Assuming that the DBSS developers have not inflated any of the costs/expenses, this implies that the high DBSS prices is because of the high prices developers are paying for the land !http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 04 Jul 2011 00:00:12 GMTWho better to explain the S'porean character trait of kiasuism than the man who fleshed it out in cartoon form. We're talking about Johnny Lau, the artist and brains behind the S'pore flattop comic character whose battle cry of "everything also I want" personified S'poreans in the 1990s. We pick Lau's brains on creativity, business sense and life after "Mr Kiasu." (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 23:58:42 GMTHistorically, marriage has been laden with restrictions intended to protect social customs. With marriage expanding in once unimaginable ways, what might the next stage in this evolution be? How might its definition continue to broaden? What is the future of marriage? Six experts share their views (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 23:48:28 GMTThe govt has argued that GST allows personal income and corporate tax rates to remain low, and this in turn keeps the economy competitive .. that GST encourages higher savings, which in turn leads to more available capital for productive investment. Another propaganda we are told is that the wealthy are taxed the most via GST, and hence the working class should welcome GST.. (Ng E-Jay, SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 23:30:35 GMT[LTA should be more proactive] When I wrote to LTA recently, a staff member called me and suggested I take the following steps should I encounter similar obstructions again.. I wish to ask LTA the following: Why do I need to take photos and testify for LTA to bring the offender to justice? Isn't this the function of LTA's enforcement unit? Finally, why is LTA adopting such a passive attitude? (Richard Goh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 22:37:01 GMT[SHOEBOX UNITS : Too compact for comfort] Minister Khaw Boon Wan said it is best to let market forces decide if shoebox units, which are smaller than 500 sq ft, have a place in the property spectrum ('How small is too small?'. While I support the idea that Govt should not intervene too much to distort market forces, we do not need more shrinking shoebox units to be built by private property developers for higher profits (Paul Chan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 22:31:16 GMT[Let cabbies own their cabs] It might give them more entrepreneurial drive; the plethora of surcharges should also be pruned (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 22:13:56 GMTMr Tang Li's letter "Patriotism is not an effective marketing tool" failed to grasp the fundamental point about Mr Arthur Loke's letter, "Let's endorse home-grown law firms first". Mr Loke was not advocating patriotism as a marketing tool but questioning what seems to be an institutionalised discrimination against home-grown firms in favor of foreign firms, by S'porean businesses and companies (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 22:09:58 GMT[Parents need to get more involved] In her letter "Don't overburden teachers", Dr Paulin Tay Straughan reminds S'poreans of the tremendous responsibilities on the shoulders of educators here .. it is equally imperative for parents to play a more hands-on and complementary role. Education cannot be executed by schools and teachers alone (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 22:04:39 GMT[Don't overburden teachers] Role in students' mental wellbeing shouldn't go beyond referring those at risk to trained counsellors (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 21:58:28 GMTMOE had called for a tender last week to train teachers to understand common mental disorders among youths like self-harm and eating disorders. This prompted sociologist Paulin Straug-han to write in to TODAY, cautioning against placing too many responsibilities on teachers, who already clock long hours (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 21:53:33 GMTNurse clinician Sophia Chua said the image of nursing has to change to attract the right talent. She suggested being more selective of nursing students to send the message that nursing is a prestigious career. "We need more local nurses to stay on in the industry, to be a voice for nurses and advocate for our needs." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 21:48:31 GMTCEO of NUH: "We need to sustain our efforts to motivate [local nurses] to stay on .. we will continue to be open to hiring well-trained foreign healthcare professionals as they help supplement the local workforce to meet our healthcare needs." President of SNA agreed, but stressed S'pore should not lower entry standards just to reinforce the nursing pool .. communication and cultural differences still remain a challenge for them (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 21:42:47 GMTChan Chun Sing Blames Everyone in the World for His Stupidityhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 21:31:15 GMT[Chan Chun Sing: Offer ideas, instead of attacking gov't] He was speaking at a 2-hour dialogue organised by PAP's youth wing (SGEP Editor: 500 Readers' Comments!)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 16:58:30 GMT['Don't throw stones... offer better ideas'] Dear Mr Chan: I refer to 3 Jul 2011 ST report of your comments at a Young PAP dialogue. You urged young people to ask themselves whether their ideas can move the country forward. Are you doubting young people's ideas? You should ask yourself who are you to judge their ideas which might not be worse than yours.. (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 16:53:22 GMTCurrent and former govt leaders paid tribute to the President. They called him a people's President who served S'pore with dignity, care and charm (lots of Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 14:39:10 GMTThis is a different July 1st. It marks a significant change of how S'pore is moving forward. 1st, we see the new journey for S'pore by Chen Show Mao. This in many ways is more important than the next one. 2nd, we see the right move by President Nathan by not seeking another term. A different kind of Prez will be elected and very likely for the 1st time in S'pore history, the quality and capability of a S'pore Prez is considered and recognized as higher than that of a S'pore PM (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 14:26:36 GMTIt's surprising that while everyone praises Chen Show Mao for giving up his law partnership to be a full-time MP, no one has linked his action to ministerial pay. To give up a multi-million dollar career in exchange for what, $15K per month? PAP Ministers should not see themselves as ministers for life, and so demand compensation for their lost careers. Show Mao's example shows us what patriotic and capable people can do to serve the country (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 12:27:17 GMTAn encouraging messagehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 12:02:16 GMT[The "People's" President] It is intriguing that a former senior minister of state and some PAP MPs called Mr S.R. Nathan a People's President .. only PAP members called him that, and those intoxicated PAP members should access the internet to have a measure of the netizens' criticisms of Mr S.R. Nathan as an unpopular president. In view of such an adverse reaction, would it not be a travesty of the noble title to call Mr S.R. Nathan a People's President?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 11:58:31 GMT[Winning back public trust after GE] An excellent ST article by Mr Ngiam Tong Dow. My views about the ministerial salary and the transparency of the reserves are similar to that of Mr Ngiam. I am glad he highlighted these 2 points as being the most important for building the trust of the public.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 11:57:19 GMT[An open letter to MG Chan Chun Sing] Dear MG (NS) Chan: I was one of the audience who attended the dialogue held yesterday by YPAP and I am writing this letter directly to you to address some of the points that you have raised, as it is obvious that you do not bother to read views on the Internet at all... - Pte (NS) Alex Tan Zhixianghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 11:54:16 GMT[MG Chan Chun Sing scores an own goal for PAP super dominance] I think MG Chan here makes a brilliant point. I agree completely. Now, doesn't this argument translate perfectly into party politics? "Whatever the circumstance, we must have the diversity." Well, what about in Parliament? How do we know which party will carry us into the future?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 06:10:51 GMT[Chan Chun Sing: Young people must ask less what the govt can do for them] Can somebody ask MG Chan what he meant by 'lunatic fringe'? Is he referring to the majority of netizens who are against the PAP, or his own PAP zealots going around calling its critics names like 'DOGS'?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 06:01:59 GMTThe fact that PAP is reluctant to disclose the reserves is not so much of a national security issue. It is more of a PAP-security issue as they do not want their ugly losses and wastage disclosed to the public. What a shame. This presidency episode is making me view PAP with much more negativity (Scrutinizing the S'pore govt)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 05:49:00 GMT[BT reported 76% margin for some DBSS while Khaw Boon Wan said it's 'only' 26%] Why did Sim Lian group give a 'misleading' 'indicative price range' if they expect to sell at a lower cost? Nothing, except to gauge how much profit surplus the developer can squeeze from the buyers. The DBSS scheme had created another money tree for private developers subsidized by citizens taxes, taking advantage of extreme low elastic demand caused by the era of Mah Bow Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 05:40:39 GMT[Cognitive Bias: Where Perception is Reality] The significance of cognitive bias in crisis communications is that it leads stakeholders to form lasting first impressions that will then "color" all subsequent info to fit the bias. In a crisis, good crisis communicators must "distance" their clients from the negatives.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 05:18:30 GMT[Politicians pay tribute to President Nathan: all a show] In his 12 years as President, did he show any moral and intellectual courage in opposing or questioning any bill or appointment of office holders? No doubt his hands were tied .. That's if he is really the people's President, and NOT the ruling PAP's President. So, little surprise then that the President is widely regarded as a rubber stamp and puppet of the ruling party.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 05:06:22 GMT[PAP to splurge $800,000 on YOG Festival] Who else in the world still remember YOG except the PAP?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 04:55:33 GMT'I am working my guts out to try to calm the market, for the good of all S'poreans. But I can't do it alone. I need all to help.' Perhaps Boon Wan may want to have tea with his predecessor and get a few good advices on how to manage a problem that was not a problem in the 1st place (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 03 Jul 2011 02:52:49 GMTVarious inputs by Mr Tan Kin Lian today .. [University education] .. [Withdrawal of CPF savings] .. [Marxist conspiracy - if it happens again]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 23:02:16 GMTLessons from The Greek Tragedy (SGEP editor: Don't miss the Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 22:56:35 GMTMany ordinary Greeks who prospered after the Mediterranean country entered the euro a decade ago are now being forced to sell gold earrings, bracelets, rings and even teeth, just to make ends meet (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 22:45:41 GMTBT article fraught with serious errors: Khaw (SGEP editor: Most of the Readers' Comments take issue with MND-HDB, and not with the BT story)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 22:34:21 GMT[King of cranes] It began as a small family firm and is now a world giant. Tat Hong CEO Roland Ng tells editor-at-large Conrad Raj about staying nimble. Mr Ng spends some time in grassroots activities in Toa Payoh, helping out Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 22:29:09 GMT[No tweeting today] Police on Saturday warned election candidates and citizens not to use web media such as Facebook or Twitter to campaign for the election -- or risk going to jail. Thai election law prohibits sales of alcohol and all political campaigning from 6:00 pm the day before a vote until midnight of election day (BkkPost)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 22:23:33 GMTActing MCYS Minister MG [NS] Chan urged S'poreans keen on politics to make the country better, and not just "enter politics for politics' sake". "My job is not to make sure that I stay in power with PAP. I never take it as a given that this Govt nor this group of leaders will always be around. We work our guts out to make sure we serve our people." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 22:11:34 GMT[What has Tony Tan done for university education?] Fellow Singaporeans: Temasek Review has been smearing the name of a good man, who is too humble to advertise his good works.. Luke Ng (* This article was from the writer's Facebook in defence of Dr Tony Tan. In all fairness, it is reproduced here to present both sides of views)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 16:31:20 GMT[Cure for the EP: Do We Want A Placebo, Panadol or Potent Medicine?] This installment is on the PLACEBO.. It is a virtual guarantee that Tony Tan would be absolutely silent and would gloss over all his own management decisions as deputy chairman and executive director of GIC. The conflict of interest for him is only too real for any rational, right thinking person to ignore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 15:59:13 GMT[Impact of National Service on male citizens] During the past 25 years, I have written many letters to the mainstream newspapers about the disadvantage faced by male citizens in competing for jobs while having to carry out their national service obligations. I spoke about this matter in a meeting yesterday. Someone sent this message to me..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 12:59:34 GMT[Does it matter who becomes President of S'pore?] Mr Tan Kin Lian suggested "that the EP Office should produce an annual report showing the reserves of S'pore." Such a move will most probably be dismissed by the govt. It would thus seem the president's role and responsibility regarding the reserves will continue to be an issue, no matter who eventually assumes office..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 12:44:20 GMT[For retirement, not only age counts] Last March, when I interviewed a member of Congress, he asked me why I was working as a journalist at my age, just over 50. "Is it because you need money?" he asked. I found his questions insulting. However, his questions represent an unhealthy trend in Chinese society, in which official rank and pursuit of money are more important than dedication to a professional career.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 12:42:22 GMTDr Tony Tan: Mr Nathan's time in office will be remembered as one of wisdom and compassion.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 12:34:30 GMT[Current and former leaders pay tribute to President Nathan] Vivian Balakrishnan, Abdullah Tarmugi, Zainul Abidin Rasheed, Lim Hwee Hwa - They said he is truly a people's president who served S'pore's top job with dignity, care and charm.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 12:26:35 GMT[A drain on the nation: Rainstorms pounded the Chinese capital Thursday. The storms delayed over 140 flights, slowed road traffic and disrupted the operation of 2 subway lines in rush hours] Basing procedures on previous patterns is a universal management technique. It is used in commercial, financial, military and civilian projects the world over. It is a solid basis on which to plan but it is flawed unless one also accepts the unpredictability of the future.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 12:23:53 GMTRecommendations for flood control up for consultation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 12:19:01 GMT[HDB and housing ministry need to go back to first principles] I am not discussing here the trend of rising prices because as the ST story explained, it could be a blip due to 2 key factors ... my aim is to focus on goals, not execution: What is HDB for? Until we answer this question, HDB will remain unclear about its mission and muddled about its priorities.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 11:00:16 GMT[BT rapped by PAP for not exercising 'professional' journalism] 'It is unacceptable that BT had not exercised due diligence and professional journalism, which resulted in an erroneous and highly misleading report.' Will the poor BT journalist get sacked for embarassing the PAP regime? BT v TNP - which has exercised more 'professional journalism'?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 09:51:07 GMTAnalysts stress that DBSS flats will continue to lure buyers, if they are priced sensibly. Keeping in mind that, facilities aside, DBSS flats are smaller than most other types of flats in mature estates like Tampines, S$778,000 for a 5-room unit may still not be "sensible" to most (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 09:48:10 GMTI was surprised to read the blog posting by Minister Khaw, 'Startling But False'. What I find startling is that everyone may be "barking up the wrong tree" .. the obvious question was never asked. As long as Govt sets high reserve prices for land auctions, and allow private developers to bid for land under DBSS and EC, cooling measures may not work because it's like trying to have your cake and eat it too! (Leong Sze Hian)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 09:42:47 GMTOf all the nauseating "tributes" collated for face saving gestures, this one takes the cake: "His time in office will be remembered as one of wisdom and compassion." Need we be reminded that all those calls for a presidential pardon for Yong Vui Kong fell on deaf ears and an ice-cold heart? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 03:45:25 GMTThere is an article in the Today paper on what to look for in an investment linked policy. The article advised consumers to consider the financial objectives, to look for the suitable funds, and consider the charges. These are motherhood statements, but avoided the essential facts (Tan Kin Lian)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 03:17:47 GMT[Report on 3rd Entrepreneurial Event At Chatters Cafe] The 3rd entpreneurial event took off slightly late at 3.15pm yesterday as a small crowd of 20 participants braved the afternoon heat to be at Chatters Cafe.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 03:11:23 GMTAccording to Ngiam Tong Dow's article, the country's reserves comprise CPF contributions, budget surpluses, revenue from land sales and dividends from GLCs. What I am curious is the assigning of the people's savings in the CPF as the country's reserves. Aren't this money the people's money? (MySingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 03:03:01 GMT[Statements for Election] Here is a list of statements issued by me for the Presidential election.. Some of the statements have been translated into Chinese and Malay.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 01:48:01 GMT[End is nigh for sacred cows of public housing] Will Khaw dare slay PAP's cash-cow for decades?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 01:44:55 GMT[Startling But False] I was startled when I read the article in Business Times (Jun 30). I have been in MND for 5 weeks, and not sleeping well. I am working my guts out to try to calm the market, for the good of all S'poreans. But I can't do it alone. I need all to help. Sensationalised articles will merely feed the frenzy. If only BT had verified the facts, the misleading article could have been avoided.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 01:32:44 GMT[Safeguard the CPF money] I have received several e-mails from the people about their CPF savings - how safe are they? They like the President to play an active role here. They feel that Dr Tan Cheng Bock may not have the financial knowledge, and Dr Tony Tan might have a conflict of interest - as he was involved in managing the funds in GIC.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 00:04:29 GMTThe Wayang President collected $50M taxpayers money, leaves no legacy behind.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 02 Jul 2011 00:01:58 GMT"Mr Nathan didn't seek to expand role of the Presidency to safeguard the national reserves like his predecessor Ong Teng Cheong. He has made it clear he has to act within the Constitution. It happens Mr Ong had a different reading of the Constitution about President's custodial role." Mr Nathan's term will "be best remembered as a smooth and harmonious if not passive Presidency which avoided any clashes with the Cabinet" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 23:47:43 GMT[A new approach for a new era] With globalisation and an ever-changing external environment, a two-way approach is increasingly needed. Our PM showed the way when he launched the PAP manifesto on April 17: 'I'd like to remind all party members we are here to serve S'poreans. Never forget we're servants of the people, not their masters.' (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 23:37:08 GMT[Obedient Wives Club rep takes issue with Muis remarks] We do not want to bring up, at this juncture, Muis' statement that OWC's views demean women and the concept of family. But we would like to take issue with the remarks 'contrary to Islamic teachings'. This is unacceptable to us (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 23:31:57 GMT[Selection process for preschool teachers stringent despite shortage] The sector is facing manpower shortage. However .. Only those who possess suitable qualifications and display appropriate disposition are hired (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 23:25:05 GMTCyclists, motorists must abide by road rules (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 23:19:06 GMT[Don't overburden teachers] Role in students' mental wellbeing shouldn't go beyond referring those at risk to trained counsellors (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 23:17:00 GMTAnti-trafficking activists miss the point when they portray migrants as helpless victims who need 'rescuing' (Zbigniew Dumienski is a researcher working on transnational crime at the Center for Non-Traditional Security Studies, S Rajaratnam School of International Studies - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 23:09:29 GMTThe cost involved in adopting these changes would be "negligible" for new buildings, but could be "technically challenging" for existing building as some sites may not have "sufficient dimensions to achieve such compliances" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 22:53:01 GMTIn a press statement, MND director Han Kok Juan said the article "was highly irresponsible as it contained serious errors". Said Mr Han: "We are disappointed that The Business Times had not thought it fit to verify the facts. The general public rely on and expect responsible and accurate reporting from the mainstream media." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 22:49:57 GMTHoi Hup Sunway - the consortium behind DBSS projects City View@Boon Keng and The Peak@Toa Payoh - expressed concern over the gross profit margins published by The Business Times.. do not take into account financing costs, stamp duty, GST and marketing expenses (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 22:42:21 GMT"There are still many owners who, due to the cooling measures, are reluctant to move or sell their flat, resulting in a supply crunch and driving median resale prices as well as Cash-Over-Valuation levels up." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 22:34:31 GMTFactors to consider before taking up an investment-linked policy (Tammy Tan is training manager of education and training at AIA Singapore - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 22:29:52 GMT[large photos] The Las Conchas wildfire in New Mexico, USA, spread dangerously close to the Los Alamos National Laboratory this week, causing evacuation of the town and shutdown of the lab, which is the hq for US military research (BostonGlobe)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 16:42:22 GMT[A favor returned] "Hi Kinlian: I hope you do remember me. You helped me immensely in my appeal to SMRT for grossly overcharging me for their taxi repair. Thank you for running in this presidential election. I pledge to send this message to at least 300 friends through email, and at least 100 or more by word of mouth. I wish you the very best."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 16:33:27 GMT[WTF News: S'pore has the world's most enthusiastic police force] Sure, its citizens love the police for keeping the country safe. But some of their actions come across as... bizarre.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 16:30:05 GMTThe string of blow-ups at overseas-listed Chinese companies could derail SGX's efforts to revive investor confidence and dent its status as a major trading hub for mainland issues (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 16:26:34 GMT[Translating Vui Kong's letters] Every Tuesday, I get a special email in my inbox. This email comes from the anti-death penalty campaigners in M'sia, working to save the life of Yong Vui Kong... It's not addressed to me, but it's meant for everyone, and as I read it I think again about how wrong it is that this boy, this boy who is reaching out to communicate with us right now, could be hanged in my name.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 14:56:26 GMT[Are S'poreans too compliant for their own good?] Gilbert Goh: "I was really troubled this week after speaking with a friend over lunch. He told me he is the only S'porean working in his GLC office - together with twenty other Indians..."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 14:49:14 GMTI posted previously on the Black Sunday thingy and painted a positive picture of the direction we could be heading. It would be good if the non-prosecution of the black-shirted patrons at Starbucks leads to the opening up of the space permitted for free expression of ideas and opinions. However, I would like to throw in a note of caution. Hence, this 'Take 2' (Article 14)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 09:37:25 GMTChen Show Mao steps down from law partnership [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 09:33:29 GMTExplaining his decision not to seek a 3rd term in office, Mr Nathan, who turns 87 in a few days, said, "At this stage of my life, I do not believe I can undertake indefinitely the heavy responsibilities and physical demands of the position of Head of State." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 09:30:37 GMT[President S R Nathan to step down] Statement by President S R Nathan [Source :TODAY]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 08:44:38 GMTBreaking News : President S R Nathan announces his decision to not to seek a third term in office. [Yahoo News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 08:03:35 GMT[Tan Kin Lian on joining the Presidential Election 2011] Please share this video with your friends and help us spread the message!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 02:28:38 GMT[Three-cornered contest] I have decided to go for a three-cornered contest after reading in the msm that Dr Tan Cheng Bock is not open to discuss this matter, and has said categorically he will not withdraw from the contest.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 02:20:31 GMTThe more I think abt it, the angrier I get. Not only was he hawking a book, but he was telling us [the taxpayers] to pay him for a book that will tell us what he did when president. Regular readers will know I have never grumbled abt the president's salary relative to his duties of security guard. It was his gd fortune and that's that. But asking me to pay him to tell me what he was doing at my expense.. (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 02:15:43 GMTI refer to Myanmar's inhuman and uncivilised way of treating Datuk Michelle Yeoh ["Yeoh deported from Myanmar"]. Yeoh is neither a revolutionary nor an activist seeking to overthrow the govt of Myanmar. She is not messing around with the internal affairs of Myanmar. She is known all over the world as an artiste, a noted Hollywood actress [of James Bond fame]; that's all! (letters - TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 02:09:01 GMTAfter much thought and consideration, I have decided to retire from active practice as a partner of the Davis Polk law firm with effect from July. It is quite clear to me that given my new responsibilities as MP, I will not be able to continue practicing law the way I have in the last 20 years..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 01:31:10 GMTSo, how important and effective will an Elected President hold himself as the last man in the defense of the nation's reserves? It may be useful to understand what a rogue govt is, to start with (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 01:25:17 GMTFrom today, cost of electricity will hit a 33-month record high. While S'poreans wait (retail market liberalisation), SP Services continues to set electricity tariffs which are rubber stamped by EMA. All major power plants have been sold and privatised, all profits have been posted to some reserve account. But not one iota of the money making has flowed down significantly to relieve the relentless march of the tariff hikes (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 01:20:07 GMTLocal academics being discriminated by foreign heads in universitieshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 00:43:24 GMT[Soul of a Nation: Our public transport system] "Soul of a Nation" series of articles examines issues close to the heart of S'poreans, pre- and post-GE 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 00:35:13 GMTGreater accessibility and interactivity of new media platforms have been defining trends in the 21st century, as highlighted in "Engaging The Tech-Savvy With E-Govt Masterplan"; therefore, it is imperative the incumbent administration customise the assortment of online public services. Leveraging on new media avenues can be facilitated through a number of ways.. (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 00:24:04 GMTCASE moves to offer better protection for consumershttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 00:16:42 GMT[No thought for man sleeping perilously on pavement] I immediately pulled over to the side of the road and called the police, while simultaneously ensuring that no vehicle ran into the man whose breath reeked of alcohol. What riled me most was the sight of pedestrians walking along the pavement close to the man who were oblivious to his presence (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 00:10:03 GMTThe belief that all people here are well looked after is unfounded. Until May, I was working in an office near Chinatown and each morning, I saw many elderly folk collecting empty cans and cartons around the vicinity, come rain or shine. Similarly, there are S'porean families that are struggling.. Before the next outpouring of donations to foreigners, I would urge donors to think about our fellow countrymen in distress (Judy Lee - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 01 Jul 2011 00:02:17 GMTIncluding GST, the new rate is almost one-fifth more than what it was a year ago. MOF said the total amount of U-Save rebates received by S'porean households this year will offset more than 4 months of utilities bills for families living in 1- and 2-room HDB flats, while those living in all other HDB flats will benefit from at least 1 month's offset of their utilities bills (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 23:55:40 GMTAlmost $10 million will be spent to upgrade locks on water tanks at HDB flats, coordinating chairman of PAP town councils, Dr Teo Ho Pin, said yesterday. The extra security measures will not lead to higher service and conservancy charges. WP, which runs Aljunied-Hougang Town Council, said it would also comply with the operational measures advised by PUB (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 23:48:11 GMT[Facebook, Twitter, Skype, MSN. S'poreans work way too hard] Is a Twitter window permanently open on your workplace computer? We might be in the office after hours, but does that actually mean we work hard?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 23:39:39 GMTAre Singaporeans working more for less?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 23:36:09 GMT[Golden chance to protect the young] I refer to June 7 report ('Singapore won't be censoring .xxx'). The article also said MDA had mandated ISPs to block 100 sites as a 'symbolic statement of our community's stand on harmful and undesirable content on the Internet'. Is MDA more interested in making a 'symbolic statement' rather than going for substance?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 22:47:12 GMTWe thank Mr Raymond Yeo for his feedback ['Web's new red light district: Golden chance to protect the young']. MDA adopts a multi-faceted approach in addressing harmful online content through regulation, industry effort and public education (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 22:44:43 GMTCitigroup's analysis estimates the deficit in housing units is in excess of 50,000 currently and this undersupply will likely take several years to clear, just like the oversupply situation in early 2000s. I do not totally disagree with their view.. What you may dispute is the extent of the under-building (Colin Tan is head, research and consultancy, at Chesterton Suntec Int'l - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 22:24:25 GMTHome buyers: "I want to wait for the next downturn before I purchase my home." They have been saying this for the past 12 to 18 months. Till today, they remain adamant about the impending downturn of the property sector. But, has it been worth the wait? Let us begin with the basic facts.. (Ku Swee Yong is the founder of real estate agency Int'l Property Advisor - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 22:03:11 GMTWithout understating the difficulties ahead, we believe the global economy and corporate earnings should continue to grow, albeit at a slower pace. And decline in equities and commodity prices could prove buying opportunities in what is likely to be another cyclical bull market correction (Lim Say Boon is the chief investment officer of DBS Bank - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 21:57:31 GMT[Photos] The Jiaozhou Bay bridge is 26.4 miles [43km] long and links China's eastern port city of Qingdao to the offshore island Huangdao. The road bridge, which is 110ft wide [34m] and is the longest of its kind, cost nearly £1billion [S$2billion] to build (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 15:19:24 GMT[Sim Lian stands to make obscene profits from sale of Tampines DBSS flats] "But in some cases, DBSS margins were even higher. Sim Lian Group, for example, stands to make a gross profit margin of around 76 per cent.." (Source: Business Times - 6pm to 6am - http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/sub/news/story/0,4574,445375,00.html? )http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 13:03:44 GMTTop 25 Asia-Pacific (APAC) universities for international students.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 12:51:34 GMT[If Kin Lian resorts to legal action against the perpetrator of a smear campaign against him, it may end up like a McLibel episode where his image takes a hit] Does this mean there are no other ways for politicians or public figures to tackle smears and falsehoods? There actually are.. (Faisal Wali - New Asia Republic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 12:45:58 GMTThe flurry of endorsements for Dr Tony Tan from the establishment have been followed by the msm and a media pundit singing praises of Dr Tony Tan. The PE is definitely just around the corner.. the issuance of the Writ is probably just days away. I would urge both Dr Tan CB and Mr Tan KL to put their own PR vehicles into full gear, ready to be mobilised immediately.. (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 10:58:38 GMT[Contest the Presidential Election] If I get the certificate of eligibility, I will contest the Presidential election. I have now decided to proceed with a three-cornered contest.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 10:41:19 GMTYou've shared a lifetime of decison making together, meaning you and your spouse should cruise happily into retirement, right? Wrong. Here's how to negotiate retirement compromises and get you on the same page as your loved one (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 10:34:53 GMT[Tan Kin Lian - Voice of the People] For this Presidential Election, I am supporting Mr Tan Kin Lian. I am making this posting as a sticky until after the Presidential elections.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 09:40:08 GMT[ No need for lies, online bashing ] We had an exclusive interview with Tan Kin Lian yesterday! Read & watch what he feels about standing for the EP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 05:48:07 GMT[How Mr Tan Kin Lian might be unfairly disqualified] Scroobal, of Sammyboy forum, has now written how there might be a loophole to unfairly disqualify Mr Tan Kin Lian. In reading what Scroobal writes, it is important to note that he is a firm supporter of Dr Tan Cheng Bock. As such, he has written a lot of nasty things about Mr Tan Kian Lian..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 05:43:05 GMT[ST now using Ong Teng Cheong to promote Dr Tony Tan] Following the lukewarm public response to the candidacy of the PAP-endorsed presidential candidate Dr Tony Tan, ST has changed tactic to promote him subtly in another way. Instead of giving extensive publicity to trumpet Dr Tan's 'credentials', ST now evoked the 'spirit' of former President Ong Teng Cheong to promote Dr Tan indirectly.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 05:19:22 GMT[President's power of clemency] A journalist asked me to comment on the changes that I like to see in the constitution on the power of the President. (She said that Dr. Tony Tan had given some comments in his interview on this matter).http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 05:11:31 GMT[Black Sunday: Coffee with Tan Kin Lian] "The event is not about TKL, but about issues close to our heart like sky-rocketing prices of HDB flats, relentless influx of foreigners, and gutter journalism."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 05:01:10 GMTIn 1993 when the Govt introduced the EP bill, it gave a grand vision of how our system was evolving into a more democratic one where there would be greater checks and balance. Given the abysmal history of the EP, it is clear that PAP has absolutely no intention of allowing its powers to be scrutinised and checked by anyone. In reality, there is no institution of an elected president (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:56:27 GMTPros and cons of an 'independent' President [Straits Times, 30 June 2011]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:46:54 GMTI was quoted in ST today, "What is important to being President is independence. You cannot only be seen to be independent. You must be actually independent. There must be unquestionable independence."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:43:54 GMT[Status quo remains in aftermath of GE 2011] Other than some cosmetic changes made to the way the PAP MPs 'engage' S'poreans, there are no wholesale changes made to the existing policies, especially PAP's much maligned pro-foreigner and ultra-liberal immigration policies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:29:27 GMTThis chart says that S'pore political leaders earn as much as 41 average S'poreans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:22:11 GMTNew Cabinet Report Cardhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:17:30 GMT[Cost of Living 2011] An interesting observation is that the current govt scheme seems to be more like a plaster on a bleeding wound.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:15:02 GMT$4M President SR Nathan's modest house.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:10:47 GMTMaborro Tan's house.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:08:31 GMTAt last night's 3rd meeting to appease the Maplewoods unrest, one member said it all, "We have asked for and hoped for a complete reassessment without any preconceived notions, but all they have done really is put band aids on the core issue." Whinge all you want, it's their way or the highway - which also happens to be their other avenue to get back at you (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 04:01:59 GMTAs of press time yesterday, talks between LTA and some 100 Maplewoods residents were still in a stalemate. The atmosphere was tense as residents and members of the Maplewoods MC peppered LTA officials, including CEO Chew Hock Yong, with questions (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 03:58:19 GMT[How Mr Tan Kin Lian might be unfairly disqualified] Scroobal is Sammyboy forum's resident PAP insider. Previously, he had provided accurate information with regard to MP Yeo Guat Kwang's 64 "affiliations" and how George Yeo was a "red herring" Presidential candidate.....Recently I heard an interesting hypothesis which might be the loophole that Scroobal is referring to. [Thoughts of a Singapore Statistician]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 03:38:04 GMTWhile the contest for the Presidency is hotting up, Teng Cheong should be remembered as the shining example of what an elected President is expected to be, and to be emulated (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 01:01:25 GMTIf Mr Tan wants to win over an increasingly sceptical electorate, he needs to demonstrate magnanimity and generosity of heart. He does not need to reply to every single criticism that is directed towards him, nor does he need to lose any sleep at night just because a handful of people have chosen to express their views on why he should not be elected (Tanya Wei - TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 00:28:08 GMT[What if the President refuses to sign the death warrant?] In Aug 2010, High Court judge Steven Chong made the following pronouncement: "I therefore hold that the President has no discretion under the Constitution, and specifically under Article 22P, to grant pardons. The power to do so rests solely with the Cabinet." He was passing his ruling on Yong Vui Kong's challenge on the authority of granting clemencies in capital cases.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 00:17:20 GMT[Presidential Election] There has been much hype in the media and elsewhere about the coming PE. However, I doubt that the layman understands what the whole exercise is all about. Perhaps, as the PE draws near, an independent authority could be appointed to draw up an educational program.. (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 30 Jun 2011 00:12:57 GMT[YPAP Facebook attacks Temasek Review Emeritus (TRE) for 'criticizing' Sear Hock Rong] As expected, PAP supporters took turns to take pot shots at TRE.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 23:56:59 GMT[JOBS AND THE ECONOMY: A FOREIGNER'S PERSPECTIVE] Let me get things straight right off the bat. I am one of those who S'pore calls "foreign talent". I was born in the Philippines, but moved to S'pore 4 years ago..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 23:51:07 GMT[Patriotism is not an effective marketing tool] I was quite amused to read Mr Arthur Loke's letter, "Let's endorse home-grown law firms first" (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 23:44:56 GMTHigh Court granted the Law Society's application yesterday, even though Mr Leonard Loo Peng Chee had not renewed his practising certificate. Mr Loo withdrew his application to renew his practising certificate on April 14 -- a day before the Law Society's application to suspend his practising certificate and refer him to a disciplinary tribunal was to be heard (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 23:39:31 GMT[Colorful old S'pore: 5 surprising facts about the Lion City] New walking tours shed light on S'pore's colorful past when gang fights and widespread fires were commonplace.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 23:26:55 GMTIt is sad we need a visitor to point out to us the declining cleanliness at public places ['Cleanliness on the decline]. In our pursuit of GDP growth, let us not leave cleanliness behind (Jack Chew - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 22:35:56 GMTHaving lived in S'pore since 1999, I sadly agree with Mr James Cruikshank's assessment of S'pore becoming a grubbier city ['Cleanliness on the decline]. Sadly, the laws are in place but a new generation takes it as its birthright to litter, confident that the city will take care of the problem without imposing penalties (Eric J Brooks - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 22:33:22 GMTMr James Cruikshank's assessment of the cleanliness of S'pore is spot on ['Cleanliness on the decline]. I am 55 and was brought up in an era where my parents and teachers taught me that littering is wrong. In Japan, cleanliness is a cultural value that has been passed down from generation to generation. We should learn from the Japanese (Mike Chan STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 22:30:06 GMT[HDB should forgo outsourcing] HDB's core function is to provide public housing. If HDB takes away the pricing option from DBSS developers, the concept would collapse. To rid itself of a conundrum that is self-contradictory to its role, HDB should forget any notion of 'outsourcing' its role, especially since it is not a commercial entity (Paul Chan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 22:19:41 GMTMisleading and unauthorised advertisements are among the top 3 categories of public complaints (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 22:00:12 GMT[Exiled Thai leader's sister poised to become country's 1st female PM] Yingluck Shinawatra denies her brother, Thaksin, in exile to avoid corruption charges, is pulling the strings from Dubai.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 21:48:34 GMT[Wait until after the election] Many people are writing to me for assistance on their insurance and other personal problems, more so than previously. I am not able to find time to assist them now, as I have many things to attend to for the PE. I hope they can approach me after the election, when I can find more time.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 14:37:00 GMT[Netizens scoffed at YPAP leader's proclaimation that they are "serving" S'poreans] Mr Sear was embroiled in a controversy in Dec 2009 when it was revealed online that his company count among its clients several grassroots organizations in Eunos where he served as Chairman of Eunos CC Youth Executive Committee.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 12:58:56 GMT[31-Year-Old Female Insurance Agent Seeking Justice For Errant Practices] Dear Gilbert: I stumbled upon your site and am glad I can post questions and probably get some good advice.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 12:50:54 GMT[BLIND VOTERS' RIGHT TO VOTE SECRECY] Meanwhile, the Presidential Elections are just around the corner. I wonder if it is not too much to ask of the Elections Dept to tweak the present voting procedures.. blind voters be given a choice of either being assisted by a relative or friend of his choice or alternatively, be given a template so he can mark his vote by himself without assistance and in private.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 11:28:28 GMT8 unintentionally suggestive screencaps from C.L.I.F.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 11:10:28 GMTS'pore's next President... a very different one (Reader's Comment: "But Mr Balji, you seemed to be harping alot on the credentials of Dr Tony Tan, the things you mentioned are fair assessments, but by doing so, your article lacked balance in perspective .. Lastly, in view of his links with SPH, do you think Dr Tan will be, in his capacity as EP, supportive of a freer and more impartial press? Perhaps, Mr Balji, for you're the communications guru, should know better."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 10:40:32 GMT[Fund raising for the campaign] If there is any balance in the campaign funds .. Quite likely, I will have to bear the deposit on my own.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 10:02:54 GMTShould Tan Kin Lian take legal action against his online stalker? ( http://www.temasekreview.com/2011/06/29/tan-kin-lian-to-consider-taking-legal-action-against-online- )http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 09:58:17 GMT[Tan Kin Lian hits back at netizen's accusations] A reader's comment: "I do not know if allegations made to smear TKL's reputation are true or false. But what is true is some people do not like him, but it does not mean all of the people do not like him. However, the use of online media can inflict significant damage on his candidacy, and the person who posted this intends to do just that."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 09:43:00 GMT[Word means 'clean' and is used by group planning banned rally against electoral corruption] The activists are demanding that authorities overhaul voter lists, introduce transparent procedures for ballots to be counted, and make other policy changes ahead of national elections widely expected by mid-2012 (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 09:38:59 GMTSDP has long argued that democratic rights, which include the right to a genuinely free and fair election system where people choose their govts, is fundamental to our ability to safeguard our economic interests. In other words.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 04:20:43 GMT[DBSS: who is to be blamed?] Perhaps it's time for us as S'porean to take time to reflect on such a behavior. Because if we want the govt to start making changes and to take action, perhaps it's time for us to stop being a living contradiction.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 04:13:51 GMTWhile not undermining importance of altruistic commitment, politicians must possess additional qualities such as foresight, leadership, charisma and most importantly, tireless persistence coupled with ability to conquer setbacks. Perhaps there is an inherent problem in PAP's selection process.. the PAP has unwittingly created a breed of politicians who are politically apathetic! (Ghui - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 04:06:39 GMT[Presidential Election Watch Part I - My Initial Impression of the PE Candidates] After my return from Nanjing, it is clear that this Presidential Election (PE) would be a Tri-Tan contest, amongst Tan Cheng Bock, Tan Kin Lian and Tony Tan.....My initial impression of how the PE Race might turn out is as follows. You may recall the infamous "co-driver" analogy used by Workers Party MP Low Thia Kiang during GE 2011. I like to use this same analogy to describe how the contest might evolve. [De Leviathan @ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 02:38:17 GMTMercifully, some entities do spare a thought for the older folks. Their generosity should make you weep (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 01:12:57 GMTCitigroup thinks the increase in supply of new HDB flats and private apartments over the next few years will not lead to a housing glut in 2013 and 2014. A stand contrary to that held by most other brokers e.g. Morgan Stanley and CIMB (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 00:54:29 GMTWhen the next Parliament begins its session, there must be plenty of questions that could be asked by MPs... To avoid people making all kinds of guesses and unpleasant comments, and to preempt Opposition parties from asking embarrassing questions, maybe it will be better for Hsien Loong to make a press statements to clarify these matters.Transparency in such things will kill all the gossips for good (MySgNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 29 Jun 2011 00:47:09 GMT[Wanted: Unifying PM & Inspiring President] If I had a choice, who would I find inspiring and wish to have as the next President of S'pore? I would want .. Unfortunately, this proposition will be a hard-sell. The current democratic process in S'pore means S'poreans may well end up with a PM and President who will, respectively, hardly unify and inspire.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 22:34:36 GMTI refer to ['Getting all on board in steering S'pore']. Socio-economic policy direction and discussion should not be perceived as being mutually exclusive. The proliferation of personal views has gathered pace even in the previous absence of govt involvement; it would be a pity if the authorities refuse to acknowledge their value (Kwan Jin Yao - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 22:27:49 GMT[Multiple fraudulent card transactions within minutes] On June 11, I received my credit-card statement, which showed not just nine but 15 fraudulent transactions amounting to $4,470.79. I lodged a police report and wrote to OCBC to investigate the matter. I am still waiting for the bank to reply and refund me the amount, which had already been deducted via Giro.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 22:17:15 GMTSIA and its pilots union are taking their salary dispute to the country's Industrial Arbitration Court.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 22:04:43 GMT[Sear Hock Rong on 'Sniffing out the grassroots divide in Aljunied'] "As a PA grassroots leader for more than 5 years, I am very clear about my objectives when it comes to serving the community .. I hope S'poreans don't just listen to one side of the story and be misled to think all PA grassroots leaders are from PAP, and they join PA for job opportunities/free parking/priority for Pri One registration.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 21:55:09 GMTCDCs were formed in 1997 to administer social assistance schemes and to build bonds within community. For SE District mayor Teo Ser Luck, the key is a flexibie approach in disbursing assistance, whether under the Govt's Comcare scheme or local program .. there will be no difference to help given out in Aljunied, which was won by WP at the recent GE .. The same has applied all this while to Hougang (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 21:49:33 GMTAdvanced talks have bogged down on a multibillion-dollar deal between Switzerland and the U.S. over Swiss banks helping Americans to shield their money from the U.S. taxman (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 21:44:50 GMTThe amount is higher than the $4.15 million she earned the year before. Besides Ms Chua Sock Koong, most of SingTel's top echelon also received pay rises. Meanwhile, Ms Chua said in the annual report: "Industry value is shifting towards mobile devices, content, apps and services while prices and margins of traditional access services are declining." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 21:40:52 GMTWhy you should vote for Tan Kin Lianhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 16:23:49 GMTSMU's Eugene Tan offered a similar opinion to what I had previously written - Tan Kin Lian stands to benefit if voters put on their politically-tinted glasses. Yet, the irony behind PM Lee's remarks on Tony's ability to unify the people of S'pore is that it could lead to a polarity among voters who will likely put on their politically-tinted glasses (Chan Jia Hui - NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 16:22:03 GMTDr Tony Tan - PAP Cabinet Minister who silently supported the 1987 detention of the "Marxist" conspirators.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 16:09:40 GMT[Year 1998: Tony Tan puts local grads in back seat - The beginning of foreigner-first policy] Protecting local grads will not solve race for jobs : The Straits Times : M. Nirmala : 21/02/1998http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 16:04:40 GMTTownhall meeting: 'The govt must review its flawed immigration policies. Before the floodgates were opened, we had 4 races who blended well together. Now, the social fabric is disrupted by the influx of foreigners and S'pore has become a 'multi-national' society, instead of a multi-racial one.'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 16:00:49 GMT"S'poreans should not wait till 'all the stars are aligned', such as owning an HDB flat or a car, before they get married. This is because it is impossible to have the perfect conditions for getting married or having a child." But is it possible to have the perfect condition to be an MP through the back door and have instant promotion to the position of an Acting Minister? (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 15:57:05 GMTThe recent Tampines DBSS project, Centrale 8, is a good example of the showing of people power in our economy, in particular the housing price (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 15:55:20 GMTHougang Memories, Our Singapore Story (II)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 15:53:03 GMT[Local banks face risk exposure to home loans] "50 per cent of S'pore bank loans are to the property sector in the form of home loans and construction loans. So in the event that prices were to moderate, given that prices are fairly high at where they are now, that could have an impact on the quality of those loans."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 15:50:46 GMTLast Weekend at Upper Bukit Timah Road KTM Railwayhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 15:48:56 GMT[He Doesn't Understand Political Donations] "So far, the donations have been slow. The support from the ordinary citizens have also been slow.. " - Tan Kin Lian. Based on the above, I'd have to say Mr Tan doesn't understand political donations.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 11:48:27 GMT[A season of convincing ahead for Elected President hopefuls] Arising from my previous post, I have been asked what areas do I need 'convincing' from the trio of presidential hopefuls. Looking 1st at Mr TKL, I need to be convinced he is seriously in this race.. For Dr Tan CB, I need to be convinced he would not turn out to be a pro-establishment sleeper.. For Dr T Tan, I need to be convinced he is truly an independent candidate, as he claims.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 11:41:07 GMTIf the COE is granted only to Dr Tony Tan and one other candidate, I strongly believe that the other candidate would win. If the 3 Tans get the COE, Dr Tan Cheng Bock would either split the pro-PAP or the pro-opposition voters. [Article 14]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 11:25:20 GMTIn 2004, a little known but highly significant change in the law governing our reserves took place. Mr Lee Hsien Loong, then-DPM, introduced a constitutional amendment.. A lesser known fact was that there was another DPM in 2004. His name is Dr Tony Tan. Dr Tan is, of course, seeking the office of the presidency.. Can, and should, he be taken seriously as a candidate? (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 04:36:31 GMTA duty to care - for maids (Asia News Network)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 04:26:23 GMT[A message from Tan Kin Lian] PS: I received this message from a friend in my email. I will post messages of the other candidates as well if I can get them (MySgNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 04:18:53 GMT[Example for the young] Hi Mr Tan Kin Lian: First, salute you for standing up and be counted.. Secondly, I wish your nomination is successful.. Thirdly, may I suggest that when you campaign, focus on the following.. My best wishes and I will help mobilize support for you in my own way - TS (Teck Suan) Lowhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 04:09:13 GMTBlast from 1997: Tony Tan and PAP against Tang Liang Hong, demand $12.9Mhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 04:04:08 GMT[Cartoon: The lines are blurred] Bear in mind that govts would attempt to increase transparency by making policies more complex. Effectively, you reduce transparency. The financial sector is the leader in the use of this strategy. They were so good that they even fooled themselves after sometime. Why should we be an exception? I reiterate. We are not saints, angels or gods.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 04:01:35 GMTThe Truth Behind Goh Meng Seng's Political Step-downhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 03:47:54 GMT[NUS: Our students can obtain S'pore PR immediately after graduating] ?'Immigration to S'pore is uncomplicated. It is straightforward to obtain working/student visas. If they wish, foreign students at NUS are able to obtain PR immediately after graduating and finding a job in any sector.' Is NUS a uni for S'poreans or foreigners?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 03:44:34 GMT[Police to measure "the cost of crime"] Does this study by SPF signal a desire on the part of the govt to shift the cost of security from the public to the direct consumers? I certainly hope so. Now there will be people who will tell you that you cannot put a price on security [and healthcare] - the truth is, you can: they just don't want to pay for it (Sg M.D.)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 03:38:36 GMT[Articles of law by BHAG SINGH] A will does not provide a complete solution to property inheritance as contingencies can arise which negate its objective (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 03:23:02 GMT[Dr Tan Cheng Bock determined to run for President] Another presidential hopeful, Mr Tan Kin Lian, had said he is open to having discussions with Dr Tan, if one of them should drop out of the contest to give the other a better chance to contest against another presidential hopeful, Dr Tony Tan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 01:41:17 GMT[Presidential Election - fund raising] Reply to Straits Times journalist ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 01:17:38 GMTDear Friend, I am standing for election as President of Singapore and wish to ask for your support. Many people have told me that they want a President who can: . Be a voice of the people . Be independent of the PAP Government . Safeguard their CPF money and the national reserves ...... I hope that you will give me your support and will encourage your friends, colleagues, neighbors to support me. Please help me in spreading this message to them.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 01:13:51 GMTThe presidential election is taking on a different spin. The part that none of them was counting on is another side of their track records that are now circulating on the internet. Every human bean has a past, a little indiscretion or infidelity, a little nastiness or naughtiness. It is now a matter of who did less and who the people would forgive. One of them is going to be our Prez. Is the past important? (MySgNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 01:13:01 GMTI am never more determined to contest this presidential election. I want S'pore united in transparency , integrity and independent thinking . I will not back off.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 01:01:38 GMTNo longer will commanders have to rough it out with the men in real-life outdoors with the heat and the humidity; virtual reality is the new cool. You know SAF has way too much taxpayers' money to blow when they splurge on i-toys. One wonders how the Auditor General will look at the frivolous expenditures. What next, camouflaged OSIM massage chairs for the hard working generals? (SgNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 00:57:21 GMTImagine our soldiers using handheld touchscreen devices such as the iPad, iPod Touch and Samsung Galaxy tablet to enhance their fighting skills during their Basic Military Training. That will soon become a reality. SAF has purchased 8,000 units of such devices worth about $4 million (lots of Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 28 Jun 2011 00:53:15 GMT[Message from 'Tan Kin Lian for President'] My name is Tan Kin Lian. I am standing for election as President of Singapore. Many people have told me ...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 23:11:43 GMT[US Fed Prints More Money... ] The problem is such massive printing of money causes inflation. MAS (under Tharman) tried to keep inflation out of S'pore by allowing S$ to appreciate against US$. There is a limit to doing this. The options for central bankers around the world are quite limited right now .. they are just kicking various cans down the road - just keep it going until something happens....http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 22:55:41 GMT[Does Racial Harmony Justify Xenophobia in S'pore?] How can we expect them to start caring about S'pore when we treat them like scum? It's our own despicable behaviour that compels foreigners to behave the way they do - which we then use as an excuse to justify our own xenophobia in the first place.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 22:38:13 GMTI am a Canadian who visited S'pore in 1995 for 2 weeks. It was the cleanest city I had ever been to. I came back a year later, and again was impressed. I returned on June 2 this year, but was very disappointed. The cleanliness of the city is gone. I asked those I met why there was a litter problem: "S'pore has a lot of problems. We have to worry about our money and how to make a living; the litter is not our problem." (James Cruikshank - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 22:32:14 GMTDespite all the hype .. I even took the trouble to get a refund and found, to my surprise, that I could claim only the excess fares I had been charged and not the full fare. How is this fair, given that commuters caught underpaying their fares could be fined well in excess of the correct fares? (Lee Kwok Weng - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 22:26:09 GMTSeveral MPs had previously raised concerns over police resources being stretched .. then-Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam pointed out that while police resources will be increased, "they are not limitless" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 21:49:58 GMTI would like to respond to the articles published by Bernama on June 20 and 21 on alleged violations by S'pore govt aircraft into M'sian airspace. S'pore's investigations have not found any incident of RSAF aircraft violating international air traffic rules or entering into M'sian airspace without permission (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 21:45:57 GMT[Let's endorse home-grown law firms 1st] The "nightmare scenario" for me is that we are so self-conscious about our status as free trade champions, that we cannot take a fair look at our own professionals who work for home-grown firms and proudly endorse them as worthy of being our 1st choice. I sincerely hope this will never be (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 21:41:41 GMTInsurance companies are running a shocking 'racket' selling clients' details to personal injury lawyers for up to £1,000 [S$2,000], says former British Home Secretary Jack Straw MP. The former Labor cabinet minister said the industry's 'dirty secret' has caused premiums to rocket after a rise in injury claims (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 16:21:40 GMT"Young people seem to view debt mostly in just positive terms and as a tool for achieving what they want. They typically don't consider that it can also be a potential burden as well." Perhaps the most powerful influence on young adult spending habits is the pervasive and unrelenting encouragement to sign up for plastic. The bad news is that the bills will eventually come due for many kids who can't afford to pay them (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 16:12:57 GMT[False and malicious smears] There is a person who has posted several malicious statements about me .. I found out later the real name of a person who was making similar accusations against me in Cheng Bock's FB. I do not object if someone called me a liar (which is just an opinion), but the smears against me by this person (and I know his identity now) is many times more serious and malicious..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 15:59:16 GMTIt is of my opinion if Tan Cheng Bock and Tan Kian Lian play their card right, this election would be an exciting one. If they don't, the post would go to Tony Tan. So its time for them to step up their gain and let the voters make their choice.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 15:49:20 GMTTownhall meeting: 'What are the reasons behind the govt paying tuition fees, allowances, housing for foreigners, and give them S'pore PR and citizenship after they graduate? And how much does the govt spend every year on sponsoring foreigners for their tertiary education?'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 15:44:43 GMTNO one can unify S'pore. Political views are already very diverse in this "country" - what is acceptable to one person is totally unacceptable to another. There are just 2 things one need to consider [on the election of the President], and the weightage that one desires to associate with same, in order to arrive at a compromise decision [no one is perfect].. TEMASEK REVIEW EMERITUShttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 12:54:36 GMTHealthcare review will take some time: Gan Kim Yong [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 12:39:15 GMTSingapore casinos defy oddshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 09:26:09 GMT[Registration Opens for 3rd Entrepreneurial Event on 1st July at 3pm] The event is free of charge and will be for 2 hours. There are only 30 seats available -- priority will be given to those who are currently not working. We have invited 3 distinguished speakers to grace the occasion ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 09:06:15 GMTRavi Philemon: Why Dr Tan Cheng Bock is still my choice to be the Elected President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 08:44:07 GMT[Remember the Sabbath Day - Exploring cultural and traditional concepts of the domestic helper] Before I continue, let me make my stand clear - I am a firm believer of the Sabbath day. No, I do not need to impose my religious beliefs on anyone - but the basic principle of the Sabbath day is to give all a rest. I also want to state that I do not employ a foreign domestic worker at the present.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 07:38:44 GMT[Dr Tony Tan - Used "funny" numbers of justify CPF cuts] By now, many S'poreans are used to seeing PAP Ministers using "funny" numbers to try and defend the indefensible. For example, when Mr MBT was still Minister MBT .. Similarly, when Mr Raymond Lim was Minister Raymond Lim .. If you wind back the clock to 2003, we can see Dr Tony Tan also used "funny" numbers to try and fool S'poreans ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 07:26:43 GMTAnother WORLD War II bomb - found at a LTA construction site in Marina Bay on Saturday - was safely removed. It is the 2nd war relic found in a week (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 07:18:25 GMTQualifications aside, an MP wannabe exerts a great deal of responsibilities over S'poreans' lives directly and his job scope also involves finances. Furthermore, he debates on issues that concern many if not all areas of S'poreans' lives. Yet, it is ironical that it takes more to qualify as a Presidential candidate as compared with an aspiring MP (Chan Jia Hui - NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 07:10:24 GMTThe President represents the people's interest, not the PAP's or Govt's interest.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 07:02:17 GMTIt has 20 million more in its reserves now than when the NKF scandal broke in 2005. If we deduct donations, grants and investment income .. Does this mean it has reserves to last 13 years? If we include Program fees of $26 million, which it received from dialysis patients, does it mean it may have reserves to last forever? So, is there really a need to start raising funds again..? (LeongSzeHian - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 06:56:22 GMT[Young S'poreans angry at Dr Tony Tan for depriving them opportunities at home] Who was the one who gave foreigners FREE scholarships to compete with S'pore students in our local universities?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 06:34:47 GMTJudging from the source of endorsements thus far, it would appear Dr Tan will have a difficult time justifying he is not the PAP-backed candidate (Nigel Tan, Chief Editor, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 06:25:58 GMTWe should continue to question and engage the various govt agencies in meaningful dialogue. What we should not do is sit back and expect info to be fed to us, and then blame the govt for not being accountable when something goes wrong (Ghui - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 06:22:48 GMT[Badly needed CPF Reforms .... ] S'poreans have the 2nd highest savings rate of about 20% in the world (China took over us as the highest) due to the CPF, yet do not have enough to retire. What has gone wrong?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 05:39:25 GMTLast week, more than 50 members and volunteers attended a session in which they were trained to conduct a survey that would provide the party the necessary data for our program [to assist low-income S'poreans]. The Community Services Subcommittee will commence the exercise this week by visiting households in the Marsiling housing estate (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 03:55:07 GMTMany are grimacing at the inconsistency in the application of the 2 schemes, particularly the time for withdrawal. Actually the logic is plain and clear. It is the most logical thing to do so, when CPF savings are limited and exhaustible. In the case of pension, it is kind of unlimited, or at least the source of the fund is unlimited (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 03:05:49 GMTIt looks like social media and the current crop of politicians don't mix too well. When one receives a cursory brief response, one can only assume the author does not value your query too highly. When Cheng wrote to Lim Swee Say that 2 weeks had passed, all he got was a one liner .. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 02:17:17 GMT[Correction of Property Prices] Minister Khaw Boon Wan is taking bold steps to increase supply of HDB flats. I support this strategy. I wish to give following views on why a correction in property prices will be for long term benefit of Singaporeans ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 01:47:30 GMTIf this issue of having an independent President is overwhelmingly endorsed by the voters, it will be a sign of independent thinking and maturity of the electorates. The next institution that may be rubbished is the concept of a one-party dominant political system. More of such self serving reasonings and institutions will go down, one after another, when the people decide to put on their thinking caps and not allow other people to think for them (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 01:32:50 GMTGiven the multitude of perspectives on limits of the office-holder - as well as corresponding awareness amongst the general populace - how will S'poreans decide on the individual elected, in the event of a presidential contest during respective campaigns? The decisions could be premised upon 3 considerations... (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 01:22:22 GMT[Complaint to SPH CEO about TNP's Melvin Singh] To SPH CEO, Dear Mr Alan Chan, [subject: Melvin Singh is dragging TNP down the drain for good...] - BT Kojakhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 01:19:49 GMTI refer to anti-vice raids conducted by the authorities. What shocks me is the manner and method used. Just because those women engaged in illegitimate occupation and violated laws of the country, does it give the authorities concerned arbitrary power to subject them to humiliation, abuse [both physical and mental] and endless shame? (letters - TheStar, M'sia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 01:13:13 GMTMay open lower; Keppel Corp in focus (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 27 Jun 2011 00:57:08 GMT[SGEP editor: There is no Elected President letter in ST Forum today]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 22:11:00 GMTSMU law lecturer Eugene Tan offered a different take: A 3-cornered could actually work to Mr Tan Kin Lian's advantage if voters assessed the presidential hopefuls through politically-tinted lenses .. pro-establishment votes could be split between Dr Tony Tan and Dr Tan Cheng Bock (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 21:59:45 GMT[The danger of anger turning into hate: the impact on S'pore's social compact by the govt's immigration policy] Govt ministers and MPs must stop repeating its mantra of praising the presence of foreigners and acknowledge the concerns of S'poreans. And once this takes place, the govt must address these concerns. And do so effectively.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 21:52:43 GMT[Independent Tony Tan endorsed by 4 heavy weights] If this is the meaning of independent, then what the hell does partisan mean - scroobalhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 21:45:13 GMT[All presidential candidates are good, says Chan Chun Sing - CNA] MG Chan: "I think it's not so much of whether the govt endorses any of the candidates, I think it's for the people to choose who they think can best represent our country as head of state."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 21:39:15 GMT'There is no way in which you are going to be able to protect either S'poreans or S'pore because we are a small country.' - Dr Tony Tan, in response to a question if he would protect S'pore students from competition with foreigners (Straits Times, 1998)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 21:35:23 GMTEugene Tan: "Taken together with the higher number of women candidates in the last election, and S'pore having its 1st woman Opposition parliamentarian, Ms Hazel Poa's rise is a qualitative and not just quantitative symbol that women are not only getting more involved with politics but also can be in a position to make decisions." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 21:31:49 GMT[Dr Tony Tan - Participant in defamation lawsuits which bankrupted Jeyaretnam and Tang Liang Hong] As he has had a long career as a PAP politician, it is not possible to fit all of the issues into a single blog posting. I will therefore be splitting up the discussion into several blog postings. In this 1st blog posting, we examine Dr Tony Tan's role in the defamation suit ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 12:02:24 GMTPM Lee: Dr Tony Tan will unify S'poreans [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 11:57:35 GMTNicole Seah voted into NSP Council, Hazel Poa elected as Sec-Gen, Goh Meng Seng not in council. Is this the beginning of a new era for NSP?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 11:53:18 GMT[Tony Tan a unifying figure? Trying to fool S'poreans again?] Now, even PM has to weigh in with claims that Tony Tan "did not need my permission, nor did he ask for it." He was careful not to be seen as endorsing Tony Tan. We can be fooled some of the time but not all the time. A vote for any former PAP man is a vote for PAP. It is as simple as that. The script says "Written and produced by PAP", and everyone knows that.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 03:49:35 GMTGilbert Goh and his friends are making Hong Lim Speakers Corner as their home for Saturday evening picnic (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 03:01:15 GMTLabor and CPF issues get aired at Hong Lim Park's "Black Picnic" event.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 02:58:16 GMT[Political Sabbatical] I am stepping down from the post of Sec-Gen of NSP from today. I will NOT be contesting for a seat in the NSP CEC as well. In the coming couple of months, I will try to help TKL in his Presidential Campaign as much as possible. This will be just another small effort on my part to try and institutionalize REAL checks and balances in our political system.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 02:46:52 GMT[Thailand's Luck-y charm] Thai PM Abhisit may have been the poster boy of 'political freshness' in the 2007 polls but this time around, it is Yingluck Shinawatra, youngest sister of his fugitive predecessor Thaksin who is stealing the thunder with her natural charm (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 02:22:31 GMTMr Goh Meng Seng stepped down from his post as Sec-Gen of NSP this morning. The following is an interview conducted last Monday with the former Sec-Gen as part of TOC's post-elections focus on Opposition parties. It was only towards the end of the 40-minute interview that he revealed his decision (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 02:13:23 GMT[PM Lee has 'no doubt' that Tony Tan will be a 'unifying' figure for all citizens] PAP's Secretary-General says his buddy Tony will be a 'unifying' figure - you believe?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:58:37 GMTAs regular readers of this blog will know, I'd rather not have TKL for president. Despite this experience of being "played out", when recently people asked him to stand, he said he will stand. He is not shy of being bitten again. He has courage. Don't play him out again, fans of TKL. People who ask TKL to be president, Walk the Walk. Don't juz Talk the Talk. Contribute to his campaign (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:53:04 GMT[Endorsement by Goh Meng Seng] Kin Lian is definitely not a Saint. He will have some shortcomings just like anybody else. But most importantly, I feel he has the necessary qualities to be a good and effective President .. fair minded but yet has moral courage .. Up to the point of risking his own personal friendship with ex-PAP colleagues, in safeguarding the interests of the People and the Nation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:44:40 GMT[Take courage - don't let Gilbert stand alone] The manner in which Gilbert said that .. reminded me of passion and courage - both of which I had not seen for a long while. To stand alone - and remain standing - even when others desert you. "I want ordinary S'poreans to speak up for themselves". That, at the end of the day, is what Gilbert is trying to do.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:35:41 GMTGilbert Goh hopes to awake the civil consciousness of S'poreans with more 'Black Saturday' events.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:20:05 GMT[TRAGEDY OF MARRIED S'POREANS GOING FOR ABORTION OUT OF FINANCIAL FEARS] Transcript of speech (and videos) by Jeannette Chong-Aruldoss at "S'poreans 1st" event organised by transitioning.org at Hong Lim Park on 25 June 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:16:38 GMT[cartoon] Sun Morning Laugh :) .. Ironically true , when did citizen become 2nd class in their home nation? Imagine that happening in the U.S.? KKK and the rednecks will be awaiting.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:11:55 GMT'Singaporeans For Democracy' members Mr Seelan Palay, Mr Jarrod Luo and Miss Rachel Zeng had been released from police investigation, according to a press release by Dr James Gomez. The press release ends with a call for MDA to take steps to officially ban 'Once A Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the Dock', stating that the absence of classification "continues to put members of the public at legal risk."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:07:22 GMT[How to marry when no freedom to love?] It was recently disclosed that fewer people in their twenties and thirties are getting married in S'pore, and more are getting divorced. I am not surprised .. No wonder S'pore had a historic 10,000 people protesting for the freedom to love some weeks ago.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 26 Jun 2011 00:00:23 GMT"With that - MRT's new Thomson Line, which will terminate at Woodlands station upon completion in 2018 - the mass movement of people will be so easy. Maybe many S'poreans will look at that and say why don't we buy property in JB and take the MRT to S'pore" (TheMalaysianInsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 23:55:44 GMTMinister Khaw urges caution on shoe-box units [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 23:53:18 GMT[Elected president must have unquestionable independence] This is what I wanted to achieve, "No more will an endorsed candidate be given a walkover."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 11:44:23 GMTST splashed on its front page today on the findings of a poll on party affiliation of presidential candidates .. 80% of the people would not mind a candidate affiliated to PAP. I did a straw poll and found 100% of all polled sceptical about a party candidate as a president. Somehow, alternative and main media seem to be reading different things and painting different pictures from different groups of people (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 11:39:39 GMT[Party affiliation 'not key in presidential race'] Straits Times, 25 June 2011: Even as all 3 presidential hopefuls distance themselves from the ruling PAP, many S'poreans said yesterday that party association was not critical in the presidential race.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 11:26:34 GMTDr Tony Tan will be a unifying figure for all citizens and will bring honor and credit to S'­pore if he is elected as S'pore's next president. In response to a question on whether Dr Tan had informed him of his decision, Mr Lee replied that.. To a question on how he sees the upcoming Presidential Election, Mr Lee replied that.. (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 11:13:23 GMTDr Tony Tan on presidential pardons.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 10:00:26 GMT[Do DBSS really deserve such a price tag or is it plain greed?] Considering the fact it was tendered with expectation of selling at $300,000, why didn't HDB take Sim Lian to task? Was HDB being shortchanged?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 09:53:20 GMTWho Buy [HDB] Resale Flats?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 09:31:09 GMT[Elected Presidency - Why Tan Kin Lian?] In my previous post, I have stated PAP's intentions when they first set up the Elected Presidency system. I have also stated that back in 2008, I decided to turn the table around and try to beat PAP at their own game and rules. That is why I approached Mr. Tan Kin Lian. But why Tan Kin Lian?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 02:30:52 GMTCalling Goh Chok Tong ESM is rather unfortunate, as those who toy with acronyms may spell it out as Extra Stupid Minister. Maybe Goh is not a presidential race contender because he can't seem to keep his mouth shut, the one prime requisite of the selected president role. Said the ESM, "He gives a real choice to the people." This unwelcome endorsement, despite the carefully orchestrated efforts to dissociate Tony Tan from the stain of party affiliation (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 01:22:55 GMT[President as a unifying force] Straits Times asks TKL: What do you think DPM Teo mean when he says a president has to be ... a "unifying factor at a higher level for all S'poreans"? Reply ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 00:36:18 GMTMy day ended at past midnight yesterday. I have just finished my morning walk. I am so so hapPy for Singapore. No more walk over for EP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 00:27:17 GMT[So Tony Tan Can Say Anything To Sell 'Koyok' For His EP Bid, But the Same By Other Aspirants Earns Them A Rebuke From The Ruling Estab?] IMO, if TT really has the interests of S'pore and S'poreans at heart, he should walk away from this contest.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 00:25:04 GMT[Malicious smear: There is a malicious smear in a blog. I have given a reply. I post the smear and the reply here] Some people said I should ignore these malicious smears, but I am told it is being circulated by e-mail also. So, I might as well give a reply.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 00:20:55 GMT[Tan Kin Lian - Robin Hood Complex] This is his latest media release. Sounds like a confused man. Look at each individual comment. Bear in mind these are his comments with nothing changed. And he wants to be head of state. Illusion of grandeur? - scroobalhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 00:17:37 GMTFootballing legend Kevin Keegan talks about his record as a player, his managerial career, and the corruption crisis facing FIFA (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 00:10:03 GMTIf state resources are mined without state approval or permits, clearly a theft has occurred and the goods so produced logically become stolen goods. S'pore cannot, and should not, turn a blind eye to this issue even though it needs the sand. Otherwise it is both abetting the theft and acting as a fence for stolen goods (Letters - TheStar, M'sia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 25 Jun 2011 00:04:53 GMTI'm referring to Kate Spade Special! The Salah Peilin's warming up on Cooling Off Day! Some bright spark came out with the idea of Cooling Off Day so everyone can chill on eve of Polling Day. So they can vote wisely for 1st World Parliament? With the majority they have, they 'suka suka' make that Law. Now we are awaiting to see if they are making a joke of that chilling Law .. (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 23:59:53 GMT[It's Singaporean vs others] The current wave of migrant workers from China and India has had an unintended side benefit for S'pore, blurring differences between local Chinese and Malays. At one stage, the minorities were fearful that immigration could turn S'pore into a "province of China". Nevertheless, S'poreans seem to say: "No way - not now, not ever." (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 23:30:38 GMT[New aspirant] May I join the rest of our citizens in thanking Dr Tony Tan, for making himself available to serve the nation, and providing its people ease and pleasantness in the exercise of voting for its next President.' (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 23:19:43 GMT[Tony Tan is no yes-man] I respect Dr Tan Cheng Bock and Mr Tan Kin Lian but my view is that their announcements are unnecessary. How independent could they be, once elected? Dr Tony Tan has, on the other hand, held more important jobs, with heavier responsibility .. a thinking, responsible, fair and independent person willing to serve the country and its people, if elected (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 23:15:11 GMT[Is there a truly independent candidate?] This could be a key factor for voters in the Presidential Election - so how can hopefuls prove themselves? (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 23:03:28 GMT[Straits Times: Sniffing out the grassroots divide in Aljunied] "Fair-minded S'poreans I have spoken with want a truly depoliticised grassroots network" - MP Pritam Singhhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:57:53 GMT[Golden chance to protect the young] I refer to June 7 report ('Singapore won't be censoring .xxx'). The article also said MDA had mandated ISPs to block 100 sites as a 'symbolic statement of our community's stand on harmful and undesirable content on the Internet'. Is MDA more interested in making a 'symbolic statement' rather than going for substance?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:52:01 GMT500 suggestions received by ministerial salary review committee.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:42:58 GMTIn another move towards improving governance in the charity sector, a new Charities Accounting Standard simplifying the accounting process was unveiled yesterday -- 3 years after public feedback was sought for its development (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:36:12 GMT[Truth about security bonds] The forfeited security bond is used to cover repatriation and other related costs once the worker is found, so that it does not exact a cost on taxpayers in S'pore (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:30:00 GMT[The key concerns of young couples] The report on the fall in marriage rate ('Marriage rate drops to record low') comes right on the heels of news that our total fertility rate fell to a record low of 1.15 last year. My wife and I are newly weds. Allow me to share the considerations that went through our minds before we got married.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:20:57 GMT[Housing prices can keep Cupid at bay] The decline in marriage rate to a historic low last year is alarming ('Marriage rate drops to record low'). This news comes on the back of record high property prices, both in the private market as well as in public housing. These 2 issues are inter-related. For example ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:17:39 GMTNational Development Minister reiterates caution over 'shoe box' apartments (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 22:03:28 GMTAccording to this Business Times article published in 2006, the expected DBSS flat by Sim Lian Pte Ltd was supposed to be selling for $300,000.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 21:59:16 GMTHow do you prepare for a baby, financially? (Dennis Khoo is the head of consumer banking Singapore, StanChart - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 21:54:44 GMTAssoc Prof Paulin Straughan of NUS: "We are giving birth later and that means our children are starting out in their careers while we are already old - that also means old couples will need to support themselves if their children can't provide for them." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 21:51:49 GMTIt's time the growing universe of social networkers become aware of what can happen to info that was once considered personal but is now being widely distributed. "You may end up having that info used in a way you've never intended. With social media, you're posting your secret diary for the world to see. Are you okay with that? Even a trusted friend could leak your secrets." (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 21:47:57 GMT[Yummilicious Feast @ Icon Village] Recently, I uncovered a hidden gem for cosy dining - Icon Village ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 21:38:58 GMTPresidential hopeful Mr Tan Kin Lian to speak at Black Picnic Protest.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 15:53:32 GMT[Contesting the Presidential Election] Tan Kin Lian explains why he choose to contest in presidential election, rather than in general election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 15:50:11 GMTIn terms of a level playing field, all 3 candidates have been associated with PAP in one way or another. This fact alone makes it even more imperative for all the candidates to convincingly convince the people that they are running the race for the people, and not for the establishment (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 15:45:54 GMT[A Chinese Idiom] Question of the day: Does the above apply more to PAP or "Opposition"?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 15:24:58 GMTA question President S R Nathan posed on Friday: "One of the things, we must remember, is that with all these gripes that you hear, people forget how we have arrived to this stage in our country. Could it have been done without the govt?" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 15:19:51 GMT[Ten Years On...] Today marks the commencement of my 11th year of political activism with WP. Concurrently this month marks the start of heavier political responsibilities for me, both in Hougang constituency and in tWP. Typically on this day, I will spend time to reflect, improve and share. Below is a brief sharing:http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 15:10:33 GMT["So far, $8.3 million has been raised. The NTUC-U Care Fund, which helps over 100,000 workers annually, aims to help 130,000 people this year."] I divided 130,000 people by the Fund's $10 million, and got $77. Does this mean that on average, each of 130,000 union members helped may only get about $6 a month? (Leong Sze Hian - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 15:06:51 GMTAngry netizens set up Facebook page calling for removal of Melvin Singh as TNP's deputy editorhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 14:52:09 GMT"I believed the info given to me from the govt at that time. I saw that the people believed they were conspirators as well. As Feedback Unit Chief, I could not let my own feelings dilute the general consensus, which I presented in Parliament." (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 14:48:41 GMT[Full-page ST propaganda on Tin Pei Ling's views about DBSS flats] ST should start a separate 'TPL' section to keep us updated on the number of hiccups, stomps and farts she made daily.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 14:35:42 GMTTin Pei Ling joins debate on DBSS, criticises policy [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 14:33:47 GMTTony Tan "suitable candidate", says Goh Chok Tonghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 14:08:48 GMTTo help you understand how car insurance works, we asked Mr Andrew Tait, head of general insurance at Aviva S'pore, to shed some light on the common myths and realities of this often mystifying subject (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 08:09:01 GMT"There are no political parties in the Presidential elections. Therefore all candidates are independent". What Tony Tan meant to say is that he is not 'endorsed' by PAP. But everyone knows that Tony Tan IS the PAP's candidate.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 05:40:54 GMTWhat constitutes an optimal relationship between the political and administrative leadership of S'pore? Is our Civil Service expected to follow a certain set of rules and standards? Who audits and enforces any breach of such standards? Is this within the realm of responsibility of the Council of Presidential Advisers? Is our Civil Service already politicized? I would like to use 2 examples to make my points.. (Tan Meng Lee - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 05:35:18 GMT[Buying Shoe Boxes?] Some analysts wonder aloud if buyers know what they are in for. Some have suggested the govt should step in to impose a minimum size. My instinct is not to second guess the market. For now, what is important is for potential buyers to weigh the benefits and risks carefully. A shoebox unit is not the same as a 3-room flat. So please go in with eyes open.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 05:19:38 GMTHe [Tony Tan] did emphasise he informed the chairman of GIC, which happens to be the PM, of "my intentions to contest the elections and to resign from GIC as a matter of protocol." The PM presumably valued the candidacy of the president more highly than the chairmanship of GIC, the entity charged with getting a good return for the people's money (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 05:18:02 GMTOne of the reserves the President has to safeguard is GIC. Currently the vice chairman and executive director of GIC is Dr Tony Tan. What do S'poreans think of his candidacy for President?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 02:19:20 GMT[10 articles of propaganda in ST to promote SPH Chief Dr Tony Tan] ST becoming 'Tony Tan Times' soon?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 02:17:34 GMTThe photo of the couple, taken by photographer Richard Lam, became a global sensation and was taken as Lam was documenting the riot that began after the hometown Canucks lost ice hockey's Stanley Cup to the Boston Bruins. The picture became an internet sensation and fuelled speculation that the embrace was staged (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 02:14:37 GMTIt was disappointing to read the hundreds of millions of ringgit of sand shipped off to S'pore. It is daylight robbery of our country's resources (TheStar, M'sia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 02:11:41 GMTStatement - Role of the Govt [and Concerns of the Citizens]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 01:40:11 GMTUnder the "Homeownership for the People" HFP scheme, lands were acquired below market price with special power vested in the LAA for the stated purpose of providing people with low-cost public housing. HFP scheme is the true public housing. However, MBT has cleverly manipulated the HFP scheme to BTO and DBSS which is no longer public housing but private housing under guise of public housing. They are no longer the same (SpeakSpokeWriteWrote)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 01:25:24 GMT[Language Education In S'pore: Beyond The Writing] In the bigger picture of language education in S'pore, it seems like disproportionate prominence has been placed on writing; and as a result, the skills in reading, listening and speaking have been overlooked.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 01:09:13 GMT[The 1st and the 2nd key] Someone pointed out to me that Dr Tony Tan was involved in holding the 1st key, i.e. to invest the money of the GIC ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 01:03:01 GMTPAP's strategy is clear: Put Tony Tan as the "govt"-endorsed candidate to fight against an independent Tan Kin Lian, with Tan Cheng Bock as compromise candidate. Hence the voter's decision is now simplified: Choose Tony Tan if you are pro-PAP, Tan Kin Lian if you're anti-PAP, and Tan Cheng Bock if you are neither. This Presidential election will thus really hinge on how Tan Kin Lian performs (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 00:55:44 GMTIf people want a president who will stand up to PAP, then unfortunately, Tony will not be their candidate of choice no matter how many thousand times Tony claimed he is an independent candidate. A rejection of Tony will be the clearest warning that PAP has lost all its political capital and on its way out (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 00:50:21 GMT[Food of thought - the Presidential image] Dear Mr Tan: Many people consider Dr Tony Tan to have the "Presidential" image. I wish to point out that President Nathan also had that image for the past 12 years. While it is good for S'pore ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 24 Jun 2011 00:43:11 GMTIn announcing his candidacy, Dr Tan is saying all the proper things the current govt would expect a person it favors to say. At the same time, he is trying to do this without compromising the neutrality S'poreans desire the next President to have. In essence, Dr Tan has provided the key indicators against which S'poreans should judge him [or perhaps any other candidate]: Dharmendra Yadavhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 23:19:36 GMTThough Tony Tan is widely experienced, humble, and maintains a distinguished and sagely appearance, voters should not be fooled by his claims he will be independent. If the other candidates in Tan Cheng Bock and Tan Kin Lian - both former PAP men themselves - have been described as "different shades of white", then Tony Tan is surely PAP thru and thru, the whitest shade of white possible (Cheryl Chan - TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 23:13:31 GMTTan Cheng Bock and Tan Kin Lian question Tony Tan's independence.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 23:03:37 GMTDespite presidential hopeful Tony Tan's assertions of his independence, the spectre of his past ties with PAP loomed large yesterday at a press conference where he confirmed his decision to throw his hat into the ring after weeks of speculation (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:58:07 GMTThe year was 1997. What is the point of bringing up all this now? The 2 DPMs who were so instrumental to the battle for Cheng San and the subsequent moves to demolish Mr Tang and Mr Jeyaretnam are back in the public eye. Mr Lee Hsien Loong is now PM. Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam is odds-on favorite to be elected next President (Chong Wee Kiat - TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:52:31 GMT[PAP MPs pin the blame on it's grassroots leaders] Poor PAP grassroots. For all the dirty works they have contributed to entrenchment of the PAP regime, it now finds itself out of favor when things are going against PAP. Is it worth serving such masters? Perhaps George Yeo may have a point after all.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:47:14 GMT[Stumped by PUB clause] I purchased a resale flat recently and submitted an online application to have water, electricity and gas turned on. In the terms and conditions that I must accept to have my application processed, it is stated that 'PUB shall not be liable for any failure or inconsistency in water supply to premises howsoever and whatsoever caused'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:38:15 GMTPUB, the national water agency, thanks Mr Gurmit Singh Kullar for his letter ['Stumped by PUB clause']. There are occasions when water supply may be interrupted .. The conditions for water supply stated in the application form for utilities is meant to address such events (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:33:14 GMTI purchased a DBSS flat in 2009 despite the high premium compared to a Build-to-Order [BTO] flat .. Had I known all this earlier, I might not have decided to pay premium prices for a flat that turned out to be not-so-premium (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:26:47 GMTHome loan facts should be spelled out: MAShttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:19:41 GMTMany home buyers do not fully understand the risks when they overstretch themselves to buy their dream home (Colin Tan is head, research and consultancy at Chesterton Suntec Int'l - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:17:27 GMTKu Swee Yong is the founder of real estate agency Int'l Property Advisor, which provides services to high-net-worth individuals. He is the author of 'Real Estate Riches: Understanding S'pore's Property Market In A Volatile Economy' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 22:12:35 GMTMany S'poreans worried about retirement savingshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 15:32:04 GMT"I believe the next president of S'pore may have to make very significant decisions that will affect the security and well-being of all S'poreans .. How could I not step forward when I know I have more to contribute to the country we all worked to build?" (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 15:29:21 GMTNow, with Tony in the picture, it has gotten a lot more complicated. If the 'PAP'-supporting votes were split 50-50, Kin Lian will be the winner of the 3-horse race. He will get his 40%, with Cheng Bock and Tony getting 30% each (Chan Jia Hui, NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 13:59:49 GMTDr Tony Tan's presidency bid may deter others from running: Assoc Prof Eugene Tanhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 13:15:55 GMTDr Tony Tan has revealed he wants to contest. I welcome his move. Now S'poreans have a chance to vote. Whoever gets voted must have the full confidence of S'poreans in terms of integrity, fairplay and UNQUESTIONABLE independence.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 11:55:39 GMT[Tony Tan as Elected President: PAP-anointed EP candidate?] Many will not vote for anyone associated with the repressive PAP. And Tony Tan as a former DPM falls under the term "collective responsibility" for his role in setting up a repressive regime that has denied [for 4 decades] S'poreans of basic rights, like..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 11:47:02 GMTAppended below is Dr Tony Tan's video and speech transcript from the press conference (NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 11:40:20 GMTOutrage over TNP's smear article with many urging Dr Joseph Ong to sue for slander.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 11:36:15 GMT"As TNP has made a very serious allegation against TRE and the netizens, it should reveal more details on how its journalists have been 'harassed'." A smear article published anonymously without providing a shred of evidence that TNP journalists were 'harassed' by netizens. How low can TNP get?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 11:33:08 GMT[The ministry at the frontline] Consider this: By 2030, some 900,000 S'poreans will be 65 years old and above. Then consider.. Healthcare, housing, welfare policies, employment, cost of living, etc.. Many perhaps will fall through the cracks. MCYS is the ministry at the frontline of administering to these needy cases. If you also consider there are currently only 600 social workers, you can see the challenge - and the potential problems.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 11:17:24 GMTMr Nathan called him a remarkable man and wished him well. When Mr Nathan was asked whether he had decided to run again for the presidency, he said he would be giving an answer in 2 weeks' time. "You have to wait for that. Everybody's asking me that question. I'm having sleepless nights trying not to answer. So not before long, you'll get the answer." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 11:07:07 GMT[DONATIONS & EXPENSES OF MOUNTBATTEN CAMPAIGN - FINAL ACCOUNTS ] Dear Donors, Friends & Supporters. Here are the FINAL Accounts for the Mountbatten Campaign GE 2011. Thank you all for the FABULOUS SUPPORT!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 09:00:17 GMT[Dr Tan Cheng Bock - The Strong Silent Contender] I am rooting for Mr Tan Kin Lian to win because I want a vocal President who will speak up for S'poreans. If Dr Tan Cheng Bock wins, I will be equally happy because we will have elected a President who might be silent but who we can trust to stand his ground against a PAP Govt trying to raid the reserves ahead of the 2016 elections. I will only be sad if we end up with someone like in the cartoon below ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 08:35:47 GMT[Bomb disposal and the grand art of Tai Chi] On Tuesday, SAF's CBRE Defence Group turned up and removed the relic. Mr Yap was also reimbursed for his expenses. Still, the police are stubbornly clinging on to their nonsensical stand that they would ask the owner of the property to arrange for its removal with private contractors if CBRE does not deem the bomb to be a threat.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 08:34:18 GMTWhy are people unhappy? (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 08:27:04 GMTSDP met with residents of Blk 686B, Drive 73, Woodlands, on 18 Jun 11 to discuss the aftermath of the incident of the dead body found in the water-tank of the block. "Mr Vikram Nair, MP and General Manager, Sembawang Town Council. Dear Sirs/Madam.. " (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 08:23:34 GMTTony Tan to contest in Presidential Election [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 07:25:36 GMTPresidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian to fight onhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 07:14:40 GMT[As the hats get thrown into the ring] My set of criteria was already alluded to in an earlier post. That still applies. From my sense is that only Kin Lian and Cheng Bok might pick those things up. I am sure Tony will not. If I have to cast my vote today, June 23, 2011, it will definitely not go to Tony. I still undecided between Kin Lian and Cheng Bok.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 06:51:35 GMT[Tony Tan engages the blogs: new era in relations with alternative media?] Officials need to be clear that the success of the experiment cannot be measured by how quickly bloggers and their readers are led to the "right" answers or to a "consensus", but by the inclusiveness and civility of the conversation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 06:34:20 GMT[Dr Tony Tan: The 'approved' candidate?] "Dr Tony Tan: There is only 1 power centre in S'pore and that is the elected govt of the day. The Elected President is not a rival power centre." The lingo that he has used is the same rehashed official phraseaology. This is just more evidence that Dr Tony Tan is the 'PAP endorsed' candidate for the upcoming elections unless Mr Nathan decides he wants to go for re-election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 06:31:11 GMT[Dr Tony Tan's participation in the Presidential Election: Statement by Tan Kin Lian] He would represent a good choice for S'poreans who prefer to see stability and continuity in the past and current policies of the Govt. I will participate in the election to offer a different choice to the people.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 06:28:00 GMT[Police clears air over WWII bomb: It's a 'miscommunication'] Do you agree it's a 'miscommunication'?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 05:02:42 GMTWhile The Star's probe team should be congratulated for exposing massive stealing of sand in Johor, one cannot help but wonder how this is possible. How is it the enforcement authorities are not aware of this massive theft under their very noses? (letters - TheStar, M'sia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 04:22:54 GMTDr Tony Tan Keng Yam is now at the Elections Dept to collect the presidential elections certificate of eligibility forms. TOC has been invited to Dr Tan's news conference and we will bring you more updates soon (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 04:02:46 GMTSomeone has done a pretty good job in cleaning up Dr Tony Tan's wikipedia page.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 02:25:01 GMTLooks like PAP is preparing the ground for SPH Chairman Dr Tony Tan to contest the presidential election. Will he have to resign from SPH if he gets elected? Do you endorse a SPH Chief as our President?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 02:23:14 GMTDr Michael D Barr is senior lecturer in international relations and a member of the Flinders Asia Centre Management Committee, Flinders University (East Asia Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 01:30:24 GMTSo who are the people who made a buzz line for the overpriced Centrale 8 DBSS flats? Never mind the unearthly unjustified price tag, another fool around the corner will always be willing to pay more. Khaw Boon Wan has done his part by foretelling in his blog of the housing apocalypse to come. But, having cried wolf once too often, nobody knows what to say anymore (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 01:25:57 GMT[The Responsibilities of the Elected President - Just A S'pore Fairy Tale?] In the final analysis, the EP system cannot work without real empowerment being included as part and parcel of the 'package'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:49:17 GMTAfter 50 years of high handedness, PAP has a long way to go in demonstrating its dedication to carry out reforms it has promised. Despite this, we have to be mindful not to criticise well meaning gestures just for the sake of it .. we, the voters, have to ask ourselves a few solid questions before jumping on the bandwagon of disdain for anything related to PAP (Ghui - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:38:07 GMTAgain and again, I am reminded to vote for transparency and the time tested values of honesty and concern for fellow men (PengYou, Blogging for Myself)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:28:02 GMTDr Tony Tan's possible candidacy in the coming Presidential Election could leave the door wide open for a new executive director at GIC. Dr Tan will have to resign from GIC should he be elected President (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:21:06 GMTMAS is seeking public feedback .. as it cautioned that the "current low global interest rate environment will not continue indefinitely" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:17:24 GMT[The moral hazard of DBSS] I accept I am in the minority on this one. There are many others, who still care enough about S'pore's public housing policies to follow it closely and criticise it. One such friend, who is presently a grassroots leader and has, in the not so distant past, served as a council member of a CDC, offers his views below..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:13:53 GMTI'm dazed. So when is public housing public housing? Do we have to take advantage of the less endowed, the less fortunate and milk them dry to enrich and empower ourselves? Can we be a little better than being the "big fish that eats the small fish that eats the ikan bilis"? (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:10:29 GMTMr Nicholas Mak, executive director of research & consultancy at SLP International, pointed out that DBSS flats still have a place in the market - provided that such flats are priced "sensibly", as some buyers want flats designed by private developers (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:05:18 GMTTonight, President Obama will address the nation from the White House to lay out his plan to draw down American troops from Afghanistan (8am S'pore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 23 Jun 2011 00:01:21 GMTChairman of the Migrant Workers' Centre says lack of dormitories causes workers to rent HDB flats -RazorTV (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 23:55:14 GMTPAP turns foreigner guests into hostshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 23:52:58 GMT[MOM evokes little-known provision against recruitment agency which advertised vacancies for PRs and Employment Pass holders only] Most recruiters MediaCorp spoke to said they were unaware of the rule governing employment agencies (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 23:43:52 GMT[But number of remarriages has gone up] "Our society has evolved - the social stigma against divorced persons, especially women, have lessened, and we've become more tolerant about re-constituted marriages. This is important especially for those with children, as they can bring up children in a more holistic environment. It gives those in an unhappy marriage, or those who have made mistakes, a chance to find the right equilibrium." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 23:34:58 GMT[Bomb find: Police responsible for public safety] When SAF's Chemical Biological Radiological and Explosives Defence Group (CBRE)'s expert assessment was that the relic did not pose an imminent threat to public safety and could be removed by specialist contractors, the police conveyed this to the landlord. And when the landlord had difficulty securing the services of a contractor, the police approached CBRE for help (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 23:25:29 GMTLetter from Professor Cheong Hee Kiat, President, SIM University (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 23:15:24 GMT[Many pathways for youth] I disagree with Dr Vincent Tan ['Poly grads' aspirations: Consider a different varsity']. There are so many opportunities and possibilities to obtain a tertiary education in S'pore. Who needs to forgo his aspirations or leave home? (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 23:12:41 GMT[Keep more uni spots for S'poreans] I disagree with Dr Vincent Tan's suggestion to set up 2nd-tier universities to cater to those who want to go to university but fail to get into the current ones ['Poly grads' aspirations: Consider a different varsity'] STForum Onlinehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 23:06:50 GMT[Beware of immigration pitfall in Bali] People going with their children to Bali should check their children's passports at the immigration counter itself, to ensure that they are stamped.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 22:53:37 GMT[Why maids need a day off every week] We are concerned that as a nation, we are not looking after our old folk. Could it be because the example our parents set for us - in their treatment of maids - is one where people are not acknowledged for their humanity and intrinsic worth, and we see them only as functionaries whose value to us is in how many hours of work we can squeeze out of them?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 22:49:23 GMT[More days off may not be in maids' interest] With 4 days off a month, they will incur more expenses. They may also become resentful that their pay is not able to pay for their entertainment. Some maids may also work illegally.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 22:39:05 GMT[The troublesome cost of days off for maids] I refer to "Should maids get a day off every week?" This suggestion raises more questions than answers. We should not forget employers' interests should also be protected. I am one of the victims (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 22:32:20 GMTThe Rotary E-Club of Singapore presented a $45,022 cheque to Tan Tock Seng Hospital to pay for Nitcharee's hospital bills Wednesday (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 22:12:06 GMT[Monster invasion] I learnt with great interest a 3-storey "monster" home being built in Simei is upsetting neighbours. How can the authorities approve renovation work where houses come almost to the front of the gate, and are built to within an inch of neighbour's house? (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 21:59:36 GMT'Monster' house in Simei upsets some residents [309 Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 21:53:29 GMTSan Francisco's Bay Area Rapid Transit has plans to establish Wi-Fi services .. The London Underground is seeking to have Wi-Fi installed .. Korea's telecom giant KT Corp has provided Wi-Fi services in Seoul subway trains since last Nov (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 21:50:36 GMTNTUC FairPrice to raise $1 million for low-income workershttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 15:16:16 GMTSPH giving free publicity to anti-WP Facebook page. Has the smear campaign started?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 13:39:52 GMTWhy do companies discriminate against S'porean employees? The reasons are manifold .. Whatever the reasons are, the govt needs to do more. This cannot be solved by simply waving the stick, or by shutting out foreign talent altogether. BG Tan has made this a dominant theme .. Now for the real hard work to begin (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 11:43:51 GMTIn his latest note, BG [NS] Tan also highlighted that a few key themes remain .. He added that the ministry was aware of need to "tighten foreign workforce inflow", which they have already done so, and they will continue to keep a close watch on how these measures work (lots of Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 11:33:44 GMTIf Mr Khaw sides with the ordinary people who feel they are being exploited, he might actually end up losing votes, because almost all S'poreans are home owners. However, he will win moral high ground and go down in history as the minister who had courage to take on the capitalists and money men for the benefit of man on the street. Either way, he is going to be denied the luxury of sitting on the fence and adopting a "middle ground" position (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 11:27:00 GMTThe developer yielded because it doesn't want to leave behind a bad aftertaste for this project. There are more HDB/DBSS projects it wants to bid for in future. So stop kidding yourselves with 'free market', or 'self-regulation' .. When such situations arise, I always wonder about the officer[s] who put up the policy for approval, and got promoted for it. Where is he now? What is he thinking about? (Blinkymummy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 11:12:05 GMTHow much money has been made from selling such 'HDB' land to private developers? How much was total money made from such lands sales, compared to total housing grants? How much profits in total have HDB and private developers made from DBSS so far? Let's hope overall review of housing policies would re-focus HDB back to its roots, that of providing subsidised and affordable housing for all S'poreans (Leong Sze Hian - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 11:04:14 GMTTNP cried over 'malicious attacks' but dared not reveal what they are about.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 10:37:28 GMT[Pink accused of failing the smell test] Nuanced differently is another criticism of his (Alfian Sa'at)'s - that Pink Dot "comes across as anxious to colonise and co-opt all the streams that exist out there." Here again, it's somewhat more complex than that, and that's why I think it is necessary for me to pen my thoughts.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 09:39:45 GMTEveryone used to complain the Web was a place where you could post anonymous verbal attacks and racy photos and videos and never get caught. But recent incidents highlight a countervailing effect. Nothing is anonymous or invisible. Will recent cases make people more careful about how they behave? How does this growing "publicness" on the Web affect commerce, civility and people's right to be themselves? 4 experts share their views (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 04:00:26 GMTDr Vincent Wijeysingha was to speak at Liberal International's 57th Congress held in Manila last week .. however, not allowed to travel because he was informed by officials at the airport that his passport was due to expire within 6 months. We produce the text of Dr Wijeysingha's speech here (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 03:55:59 GMTBREAKING NEWS: Call POLICE Or SAF Now MUST PAY MONEY? CCB!!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 02:02:32 GMT"The police say this is private property, so we have to get a private bomb disposal company to do it, and they won't send in their own squad." The fact that the land was leased from statutory board JTC Corporation, and therefore not private property, cut no ice with the police. At wit's end, Yap telephoned DPM and Home Affairs Mininster Teo Chee Hean's office .. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 01:51:38 GMT59-year-old James Verone handed over a note to the unsuspecting bank clerk that said: "This is a bank robbery, please only give me 1 dollar." Then, he calmly sat in the corner of the bank having told the clerk, apparently: "I'll be sitting right over there in the chair waiting for the police." (Koh Choon Hwee - KentRidgeCommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 01:38:05 GMTThere have been many strong remarks chastising young people for wanting to buy bigger flats as if it is an entitlement. What is entitlement mentality? .. expecting to be paid several millions a year, even when one has no executive responsibility, no ministry to run, no tangible portfolio and no army of people to manage. This is the kind of entitlement mentality that should be debunked (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 01:29:10 GMTBG (NS) Tan said: "We have had a 'chat' with the recruitment agency and they have immediately remedied the discriminatory practice." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 01:09:36 GMTTan Chuan Jin claimed credit .. Sorry, MG Tan. You missed the point completely .. as a general, you should recognise a real military victory over a hollow victory. Successfully forcing an agency to withdraw such an ad does not change employers' real preference for foreign workers. If MOM doesn't tackle the real cause, S'poreans will forever be disadvantaged when it comes to employment within their own country (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 01:02:58 GMT[What Is Wrong With Chinese Language Education In S'pore?] Unless greater focus is zoomed upon honing linguistic capabilities at (pre-school) level, promotional campaigns or pedagogical shifts implemented thereafter could potentially be too little, too late.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 22 Jun 2011 00:52:14 GMT'Jovial', 'open' and 'down to earth'. These are the words that immediately come to mind when one tries to describe Dr Tan Cheng Bock, prospective Presidential Election Candidate.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 23:54:40 GMTThe Online Citizen : Not Beyond Deceit, Dishonesty and Hypocrisyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 23:52:23 GMT[Ministry to review DBSS housing option] Land for DBSS flats is sold via open tender to private developers. In accordance with the contractual terms when it tendered for the land, the developer has the flexibility to price the units. HDB does not dictate their prices nor profit from their sales (Housing Div, MND)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 23:42:53 GMT[Credit card non-receipt fraud cases very low] Sending credit cards by registered mail does not mitigate the risk of fraud as there have been instances where registered mail had been intercepted. In addition, it may cause inconvenience to the cardholder of having to retrieve a registered mail from the post office because no one was at home to receive it (The Association of Banks in S'pore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 23:32:56 GMTIn a horrific accident, Thai teenager Nitcharee lost both her legs falling off an MRT platform ahead of an incoming train. SMRT's strategy of keeping mum backfired, and created for itself a highly negative impression - that SMRT was more concerned about its own liability and protecting itself, than being human and reaching out to a girl whose entire life has been altered as a result of this accident. Could SMRT have handled it differently? (Shanta Arul - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 23:25:49 GMTMOM seeks feedback from public and other stakeholders (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 23:05:22 GMTS'poreans would be the biggest losers if we regard the structures of the Malayan Railway as merely potential scrap metal from next month. Rather than carelessly scrapping our heritage, we should look at these rail tracks and bridges as the souls of our identity, and as connectors that link our collective past more meaningfully with the future of S'pore (Liew Kai Khiun - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 23:02:39 GMT[Disturbed by police stance after 'bomb' find] I read ("Who should defuse war relic?") and am surprised the police could not respond to queries as to why the company owner had to engage a private bomb disposal firm. Unless of course, the police do not consider defusing bombs as part of their service. Perhaps I should look to private security companies for crime prevention as well?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 22:55:27 GMT[Shocked] 'So if I find a bomb in my garden, does that mean I can't call the police and it becomes my responsibility?'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 22:52:09 GMT[Take care of your own bomb!] It is absolutely ridiculous that the police should try to palm off the job by saying "it was found on private property" and therefore not their problem. This is not a lost kitten we're talking about. This is a !%#&ing 160kg potential explosive, hello! Which part of "KABOOM!" do they not understand?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 21:59:36 GMTFor the past few days, an increasing number of HK children have been diagnosed with scarlet fever, with 2 deaths to date. It is carried in the throats of about 10% of school-going children .. is spread via contact, and better hygiene will help prevent transmission [always difficult in young children hence more schools in HK will probably be closed] SingaporeMDhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 21:51:02 GMT[S'pore's GIC invests 93 mln euros] A unit of S'pore's main wealth fund has raised its stake in the holding company which controls Italian toll road operator Atlantia, allowing it to boost its Atlantia ownership to 43.21 percent.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 21:42:22 GMT[S'pore Elected President: why pay millions $$$ for a rubber-stamp?] The ruling party's lecture is that the EP has no real powers and has to adhere to the Cabinet's decisions. But it is going against the tide of public opinion. S'poreans want an EP who can be really independent, not a rubber-stamp figure.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 07:58:20 GMT[Black Sunday: A New Dawn?: A test for the post GE 2011 govt] With the Black Sunday Movement promoting a cause and the event being held in arguably 'a public place', I wouldn't be surprised if the authorities decide to charge the individuals involved. But, I am surprised. Pleasantly as well .. because no action has been taken. Nobody has been called up for investigation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 07:46:16 GMT[Do you know about the relationship between DPM Teo Chee Hean and Dr Tony Tan?] Given his position as DPM, and his family's relationship with Dr Tony Tan, it seems inappropriate for DPM Teo to make comments which appear to try and influence the way S'poreans would vote for their President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 06:33:37 GMT[Singapore Bar Course Fees Crippling] Letter sent to Chairman, Singapore Institute of Legal Education and President, Law Society of Singapore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 06:26:12 GMTNot quite, but it's getting there. All the govt has to do now is to become less of a control freak (Terence Lee - NewNation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 06:22:08 GMTOn 18 June 2011, The Online Citizen organized a dinner at Hotel Re! to honour Mr Chiam See Tong (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 05:18:46 GMT[Woodlands residents want answers from Town Council over water-tank saga] Many felt that someone should be answerable for the incident which occurred last month (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 05:11:15 GMT[Articles of law by BHAG SINGH] Litigation is an option but one need not always resort to it. This is best encapsulated in 'Outlandish Proverbs' by George Herbert who said some 400 years ago: "Go not for every grief to the physician, nor for every quarrel to the lawyer, nor for every thirst to the pot". This is as much true today as it was then (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 04:12:03 GMT[Elected Presidency - What Kind of President?] We should not be looking for a SAINT to be our President.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 03:34:32 GMT[A Look at Tan Kin Lian] Though he topped his Pri school for most years and won prizes almost every year at RI and coming in 2nd at the School Cert exam, his formal education did not go beyond Sec 4. Classmate Dr Wong Sin Hee recalled, "He did very well at the O-levels. I was surprised he didn't pursue his Pre U. I realised later his family was too poor to support him.. (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 03:15:59 GMTThis is not the 1st time there has been talk that Ms Ho Ching, wife of PM Lee, might leave Temasek, and probably not the last. Ho Ching's 1st high-profiled resignation in 2003 was when Yeo Ning Hong chastised her .. and she was back in charge. LKY proudly added, "..and in a higher income tax bracket." That parliamentary speech is in the Hansard, you just have to search for it. Now, the more interesting story is why Lee Hsien Yang left Singtel... (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 01:54:18 GMT[Focus on the positive] Someone saw the photos of me with Chiam See Tong at this appreciation dinner organised by TOC. He asked if I am giving the message to be pro-opposition and anti-PAP. I replied to him that he should see issues in a wider perspective and focus on the positive. I like to explain this concept..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 01:21:18 GMTNorth Indian curries, hearty borsch soup, squid ink pasta ... here's how 5 trend-immune eateries have solved the mystery of longevity in S'pore (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 01:15:38 GMTMay open slightly higher on Greece hopes, SGX in focus, Stocks and factors to watch.. (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 01:08:09 GMT[Tan Kin Lian: Smears in Blogs] "The victims of the mini-bond saga knew that my primary purpose was to help them as much as I could during the difficult times. They appreciated my efforts and do not harbor any suspicion that I had a political motive (which I did not)."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 00:58:20 GMTTalking cock and trying to pull wool over the eyes of a new people who have woken to their rights and the realization that they must take control of their own future and country, will be tough going. What it would be like in 2016 depends on the changes taking place today -- a pro-people govt, or a govt that decides on what it thinks best, even contrary to people's interests and aspirations (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 00:44:20 GMT[Budget for Election Campaign] I will personally contribute to a significant part of the expenses, but I like to give the chance for my supporters and well wishers to have the opportunity to take a stake in the future of S'pore. The appeal letter reads as follows:http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 00:15:01 GMT[Govt should not sweat the small matter of presidential elections] At the rate things are going, PAP may have no choice in GE 2016 but to field more of the same stripe (a profile that is typical of PAP leadership ... entire career has been in the civil service). The danger this presents is far bigger than any president voters might pick to keep an eye on a PAP govt.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 00:10:11 GMTDoes S'pore have so much talent in investing our reserves that it can afford for someone of his stature to be a security guard for S'pore? I mean George Yeo, Mah Bow Tan, Raymond Lim, Cry Baby Lim, Wong Kan Seng and Goh Chok Tong, we can certainly do without within executive roles. But Tony Tan? (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 21 Jun 2011 00:03:33 GMT[4 questions on DBSS] I was appalled when I read ('Don't compare DBSS flats with regular ones: Khaw'). HDB's mission is to build affordable housing for ordinary S'poreans. For a major part of our history, it fulfilled its role well. But, over the past several years, it has completely lost its direction and purpose.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 22:20:08 GMT[I had thought DBSS flats were governed by the rules of HDB] .. [S'poreans should boycott DBSS launches]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 22:15:44 GMT[Are the 'enhancements' justifiable of the fee increase?] I refer to the letter "Enhancements to legal course in S'pore" by Mr David Quark, Executive Director, Singapore Institute of Legal Education .. Are the newly available electives and the tea and talk sessions really worth an additional $2,000 per student for a 5-month course? (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 21:53:20 GMTMaids deserve time off too (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 21:47:15 GMT[Thai girl who fell onto the tracks] SMRT - which received Friday a claim of $3.4 million from lawyers acting for the girl's father - has given its side of the story: It wants to clarify that the $5,000 offered to Miss Nitcharee Peneakchanasak, which her father had rejected, was a goodwill gesture and not an offer of compensation (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 21:43:44 GMTA key thrust of the authorities' digital map for the next 5 years - which was unveiled by DPM Teo Chee Hean - is ensuring the info and apps that will be available are not just the exclusive domain of the Govt (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 21:37:13 GMTGrowing unrest in China a symptom of rampant corruption, mismanagement afflicting local govt (Maria Siow is East Asia bureau chief at CNA - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 21:29:31 GMT[Alex Lew, Lee Mei Wei, Ko Siew Huey and Leong Sze Hian provide free financial counseling every Thursday from 8 - 10 pm, at Block 108, Potong Pasir Ave 1] TOChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 16:48:48 GMTSince the May 7 election, several MPs from the ruling party have told their grassroots leaders to do away with excessive and unnecessary formalities at events which they will be gracing. Another issue where I reckon the Govt's recent actions seem to be a case of too little too late is the Elected Presidency (Jason Lee - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 16:46:49 GMTDoes it mean the Minister of Finance only paid $3.3 billion for the 'World's Most Awarded Airport' with total assets of $7.2 billion, revenue of $961 million and profit after tax of $227 million? Who benefits from the transaction when a state entity is corporatised? If an entity is sold, what is the price? How do S'poreans benefit? (Leong Sze Hian - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 14:10:04 GMTWhy Every Year Thousands of Our Kids Do Not Celebrate Father's Day With Their Dadshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 14:02:31 GMTThis post is written to address one specific line of criticism directed against 2 previous posts. Some may claim the university overhaul initiated by DPM Dr Tony Tan then was necessary because they made NUS or NTU a world-class university where previously, they was largely unknown and consigned to the lower ranks.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 11:15:28 GMT55% are disgusted reading "Why President isn't like an MP" ? !http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 11:10:15 GMTElecting a President different from MP: DPM Teo [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 11:05:07 GMT[Why Malay Muslim high tea for PAP only] The Malay Muslim leadership is merely mirroring the sentiments of the general Malay Muslim community in pursuing their interests in a manner that is pro-PAP - as much as such an agenda would appear partisan or polarising to some.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 11:01:23 GMTNicole Seah declares statement of account as TNP's smear campaign flops againhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 10:57:14 GMTC.L.I.F.: The Many Faces of Tay Ping Huihttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 10:54:37 GMTSingapore remains attractive hub for highly skilled Indianshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 10:48:02 GMT[The Two-Tier Society] My quieter, more philosophical self senses the ineffable feeling that this city is increasingly being designed variously as a playground, a global bolthole, winter retreat, or Asian gateway, marketed primarily to the wealthy expatriate, and perhaps, incidentally, to the wealthy local.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 10:46:23 GMT[First book on the general elections now out] We deliberately did not want the book to be too academic. As you can see from the examples, the pages are filled with nearly as many pictures as text - thanks to many photo contributors.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 10:43:33 GMTBad insurance policies to avoidhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 10:40:32 GMT"TAN is the new LEE"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 05:21:22 GMTA recent poll of Yahoo! S'pore users has revealed Dr Tony Tan to be the number one choice for the role of President (ewenboey - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 05:20:06 GMT[Black Picnic - Speakers' Corner on 25 June at 5pm] During our think tank session, many of the participants felt the ease in which employers get to employ younger and cheaper foreign workers inadvertently help to lower starting salaries of our local workers here. On top of that, they also provide stiff competition for our local workers who needs a certain minimal amount of salary to get by.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 05:16:10 GMTThe SIA Cup carries the biggest prize money in the S'pore horse racing circuit. But this pales in comparison with the Presidential Race that is scheduled in late August. Why is there such a dearth of entries? It cannot be a race when practically all entries are ruled out or locked out from the race (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 03:43:59 GMT[Rethinking Education....the Great Equaliser...] There is one hard truth that we must not believe... and if we believe, will doom us to make the same mistakes as the Americans and allow the gap in their society to spread into the education system.. MM Lee's flawed elitist belief on genetics which is against the best evidence we have today. This belief contributes to S'pore's widening social gap which is the highest in the developed world.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 03:30:24 GMTDrs Leong Yan Hoi, Tan Lip Hong and Toh Beng Chye are medical doctors. They are also members of SDP's Healthcare Advisory Panel (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 03:27:19 GMTKhaw Boon Wan was once upon a time one of the more credible ministers in the cabinet. At one stage, even PM was envious of his popularity. After the affordable heart by-pass operation, he's starting to sound more like his despicable predecessor in the MND. The marionettes may have been changed, but the wayang goes on (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 00:47:22 GMT"Don't use the presidential election to show unhappiness with PAP". But if there is an election, we, the voters, can send a message to PAP that we are still unhappy. Thank you Mr "Hard Truths" for coming up with the role EP. Although you didn't intend it, the post has become a symbol S'poreans can use to show they are not happy with yr version of Utopia (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 00:34:54 GMT[Can S'pore Learn Anything From Finland's Education Mechanisms?] The Finnish practice of adopting encouraging and supportive school assessments is more targeted and productive, because it allows the school's administration to set personalised benchmarks [probably even with its parents and teachers], instead of comparing with other schools for the mere sake of doing so.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 00:26:18 GMTEuropean leaders are meeting this week to try to deal with the crisis in Greece. Who will benefit from an I.M.F. intervention in Greece, and what lessons have been learned from Argentina and other national financial crises? 8 experts share their views (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 00:18:00 GMTNorthern Ireland's Rory McIlroy's stunning 8-shot victory in the U.S. Open in Maryland led to fellow professionals dubbing him the next Tiger Woods. He became the youngest U.S. Open champion since Bobby Jones in 1923 (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 20 Jun 2011 00:13:28 GMT[Presidential Election - a dignified campaign] Dear Mr Tan: I am from The Straits Times. DPM Teo made some comments on the EP at an event today and we are running a story about some things he said. Getting reactions from the ground and from the candidates, hope you can help answer some questions ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 23:17:55 GMTSo when President Nathan reviews the NDP for the last time this August, an entire nation will be united in saying good riddance. If he decides to abandon common sense and stand for a 3rd term, his farewell will merely be postponed for another 2 weeks or so. You won't be missed, Mr President. Don't let the door hit you on the way out (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 23:10:05 GMTWhy electing a President is different from electing an MP (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 23:04:33 GMTFormer NTUC Income chief Tan Kin Lian expects the budget for his election campaign to be "$100,000 to $200,000". Former PAP MP Tan Cheng Bock, the other presidential contender, expects his campaign budget to be "quite high" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 23:01:56 GMT['HDB has deviated from its role.'] .. [What safeguards does HDB have to ensure DBSS developers do not sell public housing at extremely high prices?]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:56:34 GMT[Guard against DBSS flat pricing affecting the resale market] Minister Khaw should review policies governing DBSS flats to ensure developers do not rake in obscene profits and create unnecessary bubble effects. One way is to have the pricing of DBSS flats remain under HDB's control.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:53:14 GMT[Stumped by PUB clause] I purchased a resale flat recently and submitted an online application to have water, electricity and gas turned on. In the terms and conditions that I must accept to have my application processed, it is stated that 'PUB shall not be liable for any failure or inconsistency in water supply to premises howsoever and whatsoever caused'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:48:10 GMT['Lucky' number, unlucky in portability] I recently ported my mobile phone number from M1 to SingTel and was surprised when M1 sent me a bill for $100 for what it termed a "lucky number levy fee". M1 claimed this clause is in my contract which, of course, was never pointed out to me. If this is so, I caution those who are planning to subscribe to M1 to read their contracts closely.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:44:27 GMTThe authorities here may not have received specific info yet about security threats but S'pore needs to maintain heightened security, DPM Teo Chee Hean said. As for the documentary containing exclusive footage of M'sia's recapture of S'pore JI leader MSK, which will be aired later this month, MHA was not involved in its production (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:32:08 GMT[Despite being in demand, security guards feel that salaries and working conditions can be improved] It is not uncommon, especially among M'sians, for them to take on 24- and even 48-hour shifts due to a manpower shortage (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:27:06 GMTWhile Mr Khaw may be right in saying DBSS flats only make up a small portion of total array of housing options available to S'poreans, he might have confused some with his choice of title for his blog post - which reads "DBSS is not HDB". In the 1st place, the whole point of public housing is to provide affordable solutions to citizens who are unable to afford private housing (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:23:07 GMTFinancial Secretary John Tsang said he was very concerned with risk of an asset bubble forming, since property prices have surged past record levels seen in 1997 prior to Asian financial crisis. Tsang said market risks continued to heighten and described current situation of a strong economy, high liquidity and an ultra-low interest rate as "abnormally prosperous" (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:14:05 GMT[Enhancements to legal course in S'pore] I refer to the letter "Spike in fees excessive". Ordinarily, the course fees are borne by law firms that have given training contracts to students. The S'pore Institute of Legal Education is sympathetic in instances where students have financial difficulties. It has allowed students, who are unable to pay the full fees, the option to pay by instalments (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 22:07:20 GMT[Law firms must stop being S'porean and think Asian if they're to thrive post-liberalisation] Now, with international firms which boast daunting reputations and often dangle higher pay and exposure in front of young S'pore lawyers, the competition has gotten even fiercer (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 21:56:59 GMT[Putting her in the right nursing home where she can get skilled care] In many cases, keeping them at home in a corner without the right care and ignoring them to do our own things every day, is in fact doing more harm to them than placing them in the right nursing home (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 21:42:28 GMTIs Greece on a path to stability or just delaying an inevitable disaster? Financial indicators, such as what it costs to insure Greek debt, suggest a default is extremely likely. Here are some Qs and As about the Greek debt crisis (Associated Press)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 21:33:54 GMT[Fatherhood] Now that I'm a parliamentarian, the next 5 years are likely to be the busiest of my life, particularly because I have to juggle my salaried job with my legislative and political work. These 5 years also coincide with what I believe is the most important period for parents to spend time with their children.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 21:06:42 GMT[Voices of the People - Tan Kin Lian for President] Here are the endorsements from people of all walks of life. Endorsement (1) (2) (3) ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 15:57:56 GMT.. if they allow Tan Cheng Bock to succeed in his bid to become elected president [what people want to hear is whether Tan can say with the same amount of conviction and confidence that the "Marxists" arrests were justified then, as well as now] Belmont Lay, NewNationhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 13:17:12 GMTFeedback from a reader claims there is still this clamoring for "foreign talent" over "S'porean talent." Too bad those many local professors who were retired early at 55 actually believed that, as academics, they were only supposed to publish or perish. No one told them about the new economics of sleaze - in S'pore (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 13:08:20 GMT[Will PM Lee do a 'Chiang Ching-kuo' in S'pore?] It is too early to tell whether PM Lee's commitment to change and listen to the people will go deeper and become a permanent change in S'pore politics. However, comparing to Chiang Ching-kuo of Taiwan in the 1980s, PM Lee is still far behind.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:57:56 GMTPinkDot 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:54:21 GMTDr Vincent Wijeysingha wants PAP to apologize for 'criminal imprisonment' of Tan Jing Quee and other ISA detainees.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:48:55 GMTTV documentary to show Mas Selamat capture [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:45:56 GMT[Singapore EntrePass vs Employment Pass] This guide provides a side-by-side comparison of the 2 passes, so you can explore which pass might better suit your unique circumstances.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:42:08 GMTAfter churning out unbelievable data on S'pore's 'low' employment rate of 1.9 percent which includes foreigners, the PAP regime is now making use of its propaganda mouthpiece The Straits Times to convince S'poreans that they are getting 'fussy' in a 'tight' labor market, to deflect growing public pressure on it to reduce the intake of foreign workers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:33:23 GMT[MPs tell residents: No need to stand, clap for us] Haha PAP abandons grass loot dogs! Oppos want to adopt any?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:24:56 GMTPAP MPs are encouraging residents to do away with excessive and unnecessary formalities when meeting them (ewenboey, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:22:05 GMT[The other side of politics] In the past one week alone .. we are seeing S'poreans becoming more open and vocal about non-political issues. The govt should no longer take a hardline stance on any matter with which it disagrees. Patience, engagement and sincerity .. A govt which is able to do these will have won many hearts and many minds.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:10:43 GMTThe ill-fated P65 blog met its frigid death not long after its birth, only to be revived later with a new set of faces. The govt's other attempts at establishing a foothold in cyberspace have also not been very successful. So, how exactly can the govt succeed in this? (Andrew Loh, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 12:07:11 GMT[The Sophistry of Law Minister K. Shanmugam] He showed a fertile imagination in asserting President Ong was not "stonewalled" and was in fact provided with "a complete listing of State buildings and lands" by the Govt. Quite fantastic! All along, it was made clear in the public's mind that President Ong had asked for an account or details of the S'pore reserves..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 11:53:01 GMT[New projects need money] In his article 'Is PAP a profligate govt?', the writer points out the many promises the Govt has made before and after the election. It is important for the elected President to be able to scrutinize which projects are necessary and good for the people, and which are unnecessary and waste of money. Do you agree?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 19 Jun 2011 00:44:53 GMT[On one side, North Korea. On the other, 'SingaporeCity'] What's a S'pore developer doing building housing projects across the river from Asia's current bogey state? Getting ready to ride the boom when North Korea finally opens up, that's what (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 23:49:14 GMT[Tough love, velvet gloves] Kadir has a lifetime of experience from the sport which he is determined to pass on to as many young people as possible. And it is for that reason he remains - for S'pore and its youngsters - a true champion (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 23:44:07 GMTThis year's Pink Dot attendance set a new record for the largest public gathering ever seen at the Speakers' Corner since it opened 11 years ago. Event organisers were stunned, overwhelmed and humbled by the record crowd (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 23:38:45 GMT[The Freedom to Love] Pink Dot celebrates the freedom to love, whether that love be heterosexual or homosexual. We came together at Hong Lim Park to stand against ignorance, fear, prejudice and discrimination, and to say that it is okay to be who you are, and love who you love.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 23:33:07 GMT[58 photos] In 2011, the 3rd annual Pink Dot brought together an estimated 10,000 people in Hong Lim Park to support the freedom to love (Flickr)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 23:27:06 GMTNow 87, he had said he has no intentions to retire from politics, and made the point again in his speech. "I saw a film once on Winston Churchill. He was also kicked out of office during his career in politics. People asked him, what do you do when you're out of office? And he said, well I keep on KBO. Do you know what KBO is? I don't know if it's a dirty word but this is said by Churchill. Keep Buggering On. And I hope when the dust is settled down, I also want to KBO." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 23:22:40 GMT[Lessons from The Greek Tragedy] On 16 June 2011, when the Greek crisis threatened to erupt into a new global crisis as European leaders squabble over the rescue package, HDB launches the most expensive new flats ever sold in S'pore - $880K for DBSS in Tampines. Whoever buys these flats assumes that things will be smooth economically for the coming decades ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 22:47:51 GMT[DBSS Is Not HDB] DBSS is a class of housing type between HDB flats and EC/private condos. It forms a tiny portion of the total housing options for S'poreans. While HDB flats are designed and priced by HDB, DBSS flats are designed and priced by private developers. If the private developer prices it too high and there are no takers, there will be no sales.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 09:46:10 GMT[Exploring Humanitarian Youth Expeditions in Sabah] Earlier this morning, both Pritam & Shin Leong met their M'sian friends from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR). The 6 friends are all very excited by the possibility of youths from Hougang SMC, Eunos Division and Sabah State coming together for a good cause, such as participating in PKR spearheaded humanitarian expeditions to the rural interior of Sabah where indigenous tribes reside.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 08:36:24 GMT[Certificate of Eligibility] This is why I have still not been able to submit my application for the CoE yet.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 08:32:53 GMT[What happens when you tried to outsource a high demand product - Property] The danger is, with the impending raise in income ceiling for flats, demand will increase. The real danger, however, is the price point would be increased for future DBSS projects. Once again, you have the most ridiculous project undergone under the MND Minister's ward.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 07:17:48 GMTHDB's answer to middle-class S'poreans and PR's who want to own condos but can't afford the real thing. Yet HDB gets derided for a scheme to help fulfil middle-class aspirations. Smart move or dumb move by Khaw? You decide (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 07:13:31 GMTDr Ng Eng Hen earned $4.5 million before swapping out his surgeon garb for politics in 2001. For Ng, since August 2004, he has been enjoying a guaranteed million dollar steady ride, plus the regular GDP performance bonuses and other perks of office. Without the twists and turns of a stomach churning career in the private sector. If he masters the art of keeping his mouth shut, he could take a stab at the EP during his evening years .. (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 06:59:47 GMTYahoo Poll shows Tony Tan in the lead.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 01:15:31 GMT[The Elephants In Tony Tan's Room] The fact is these 3 so called professional journalists had the temerity to do that but not the basic decency or courtesy to offer TKL , the target of academic Tan's unprovoked scorn and belittling, the same opportunity to be heard. Is this the protocol or code of practice of the Straits Times for a potential EP candidate who would be in competition with one of its own?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 01:05:11 GMTWell, the msm seems to think so, judging by the slant of the article published in Friday's edition of The Straits Times. Citing qualifications, personality and stature, the newspaper comes across as being overly effusive about wanting Dr Tan as a presidential candidate. I am puzzled about this unrelenting desire to put up a candidate .. (Maverick)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 01:00:06 GMTLet us speculate as to the possible reasons .. [The possibility of a 2nd defeat in 3 months was too much to bear .. At age 57, he is too young to be President .. He did not obtain the endorsement of the PAP .. He is truly a 'free spirit' and does not wish to be constrained by the Presidency] TheSatayClubhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 00:48:19 GMTIf you disappoint a nonbeliever like me, you must be doing far worse with your constituency! And what happened to the mouse-silent Minister for Malay/Muslim affairs? (PengYou)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 00:35:26 GMTWhen HDB was first set up, its mission was to provide basic, affordable housing to all S'poreans. Unfortunately, it seems the principles behind public housing have been forgotten, as developers seek to make the most out of the current property bubble (Nigel Tan, Chief Editor, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 18 Jun 2011 00:13:03 GMT[Pushing all the right buttons] A re-energised Lee Hsien Loong has surprised many S'poreans as he strives to be a people's leader and introduced a sense of urgency into the govt by addressing public concerns (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:41:00 GMTStruck off Register despite voting, human error the cause (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:36:36 GMTSingaporeans 'must have local addresses to be eligible to vote' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:33:40 GMT[I made police report based on video] I explained to the police that although I was not a witness at the scene, the motion images were in all senses to me akin to witnessing the incident as it happened in my presence. My report was allowed (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:25:13 GMTI recently renewed my passport online and received a new biometric passport .. my photo was stretched vertically, causing my head to look slightly elongated and my facial measurements to be distorted. I suspect I am not alone with this problem and wonder if this will lead to issues at overseas immigration checkpoints (Jerry Low - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:17:41 GMTWhy Bukit Brown is needed for housing (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:12:43 GMT[Singapore Island Country Club clarifies concerns raised] We refer to the article "Alleged overspending by club management upsets SICC members" (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 23:08:57 GMTSome parents may find schools increasingly run like businesses, with strong emphasis on results, which they claim stifles creativity. This is only because parents in the past wanted schools to be more professionally run and adopt the best practices in the private sector (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 22:58:31 GMTThis mindset of running schools as businesses, and the push for medals, has resulted in promoting results at the expense of other areas of development that are just as important in building a gracious, progressive and resilient society. Perhaps we have sometimes forgotten, in our fevered need to achieve, how important it is for our children to .. (Joan Seah - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 22:56:06 GMTI refer to letters ['Poly grads' uni frustration' and 'Don't force them to give up higher education'] I suggest establishing a Uni that may not be constantly competing for top honors but, nonetheless, serves the purpose of educating students who may not qualify for the existing 3 Unis, but are clearly competent enough for tertiary education (Dr Vincent Tan, Ma., USA - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 22:45:54 GMTNTUC First Campus is increasing monthly fees at its My First Skool childcare centres .. general manager Adeline Tan said its fees had to move "in tandem" with investments to improve quality. $1.18 million was invested last year in training and development .. will increase to $1.5 million this year (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 22:26:30 GMTWhen investing your surplus CPF OA funds, there is a wide range of approved financial products available for investors of varying risk appetites. If you are not confident of taking investment risks, you should just leave your money in your CPF accounts and earn interest while remaining risk-free (Gemma Tay is head of deposits, investments and insurance strategy at UOB - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 22:20:34 GMTThe Islamic Religious Council of S'pore said it rejects the objectives of M'sia's Obedient Wives Club (AsianCorrespondent)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 21:58:42 GMT[large photos] Over the last decade, Greece went on a debt binge that came crashing to an end in late 2009, provoking an economic crisis. Violence broke out this week during one of the demonstrations .. (TheBigPicture)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 21:53:20 GMTThe attacks followed a warning by Internet vigilante group Anonymous, which said it planned to target the M'sian govt's official portal 'www.malaysia.gov.my' to punish it for censoring WikiLeaks (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 21:47:26 GMTThe greater of Mr Chiam's contribution and that of his colleagues in the Opposition will continue to be in the inspiration they set in standing up and speaking out. However, the history of our people must necessarily encompass all those who have risked and lost, and paid the price for their conviction and endeavour to give us voice (Dana Lam, Potong Pasir Voter - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 16:20:45 GMTMohamed Ismail, chief executive of PropNex, said that though the flats were built by Sim Lian Group under the DBSS, the price tag is still higher than any executive condo. Nicholas Mak, head of research at SLP International, said that while the location is good, it does not justify the flats' astronomical price tag (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 12:46:45 GMTLong seen as a cultural desert, the city-state now hosts novel dinner clubs, networking forums and music nights (TheGuardian, UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 12:40:22 GMTThe Malaysia Immigration's attitude deserves recognition as it has carried out an investigation over the nude squat incident involving 2 S'porean women. Undoubtedly, it was an legitimate detention since they had entered the country illegally. However, it is not the point. The immigration investigation has actually missed 2 important parts .. (Sin Chew Daily)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 12:37:35 GMT[Foreign talents enter here by bogus means] Hi Gilbert: I am in the manpower industry sector and familiar with some of the bogus means by which a large number of Indians from India have utilised in the past and continue to do so now, to acquire their EP, PR and Citizenship and the newly created S Passes.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 10:47:47 GMTCasino Regulatory Authority Chairman Richard Magnus said the full-scale inspections "would be on top of our regular monitoring of the casinos". It would include detailed on-site inspection of electronic gaming equipment as well as comprehensive checks on casino operations (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 10:40:28 GMT[Voices of the People - Tan Kin Lian for President] Here are the endorsements from people of all walks of life. Endorsement (1) (2) (3) ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 10:34:24 GMT[3 global economic scenarios and their impact on S'pore] The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) actually has a team that tries to look beyond the horizon and map out possible futures based on insights from different disciplines. I have quoted the 3 scenarios and their implications for S'pore directly from MTI Futures Group's paper, to retain their flavor and essence ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 10:21:03 GMTGiven all recent bad news about property, I was surprised to read a developer had priced some HDB flats in Tampines at $750 per sq ft, and more. The developer paid only $261 per sq ft. Market has moved from "Buy before prices go higher" to "Wait and see". But Sim Lian seems to think there are daft buyers out there (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 10:09:17 GMTDr Susan Lim, the prominent S'porean doctor facing an inquiry on alleged overcharging of a patient related to the Brunei royal family, has broken her silence on the scandal to give her side of the story (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 06:42:21 GMTThis upcoming Presidential Election is CRITICAL .. because we have 2 strong candidates who are guided by the views of S'poreans and will speak out publicly on their behalf. On the other hand, we have PAP endorsed candidates .. it is safe to assume they will be keeping quiet and sticking to perfecting the art of performing ceremonies (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 05:34:22 GMTSDP wrote to the Elections Dept on 26 May 11, pointing out a series of inconsistent practices carried out by election officials on polling day during GE 2011. It has been 3 weeks and ELD has yet to reply. We have written to ELD again and reminded them to respond to our queries. We append the letter that we wrote on 26 May .. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 03:00:13 GMT[The coming Presidential election could be battle of the Tans..] Reader Kuek Jinhua's comment: in their chinese names, it would be a battle of 'clarifications' (chen qing), just whether it's more wood (Chen Qing Mu, Tan Cheng Bock), more heat (Chen Qing Yan, Tony Tan Keng Yam) or more brightness (Chen Qing Liang, Tan Kin Lian).http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 02:56:38 GMT[Spirit of Neutrality] I believe that most people will know the difference between "being involved in politics" and "exercising judgement based on a set of values and principles". I know that many people will want an [Elected] President who is able to exercise his or her judgement independently of the Govt or any political party. I will participate in the election to give them this choice.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 02:18:08 GMTFrankly, nobody quite understands what Yeo means when he says " I can better contribute to the S'pore we all love in other ways". The only way he knows how to "serve" S'pore is to be a yes-man. This guy, despite the reputed brainiac capacity, even spouts nonsensical p.c. stuff like "an IR is not a casino" just to suck it up to his political paymaster [Dont miss reader's comment] SingaporeNoteshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 02:10:15 GMTAn intensive 5 hours long workshop, spread over 2 days, will be held on 'Community Organisation'. (SGEP editor: don't miss readers' comments) TOChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 02:01:43 GMT'The govt expects the public to believe they would carry out a fair and transparent probe? Since when have they been known to do that?' (MalaysiaKini)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 01:50:36 GMTAs a female M'sian working in S'pore, I find it embarrassing to defend my own country over such acts. I have been treated with respect by S'pore Immigration all this time. I hope foreigners who come into M'sia are as well treated (letters - TheStar, M'sia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 17 Jun 2011 01:48:40 GMT[Bring back 3-tier families] In case anyone does not think the costs are worth it, we should all remember - we all get old, and what we invest in taking care of the elderly will directly influence how we are taken care of in the future (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 22:31:37 GMT[Behind the abuse and neglect] Nursing homes are going to be part of our lives, and it pays to understand how things are there and how they should be (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 22:28:47 GMTMinister Khaw to raise income ceiling for BTO applicants? [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 22:26:08 GMT"I would like to be that unifying figure for S'poreans." In Part 2 of 3, Dr Tan talks about his motivations for wanting to be a presidential candidate as well as his views on the powers of the Elected President (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 16:34:01 GMT[George Yeo not running for President] Why am I not surprised to hear this news?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 16:30:36 GMT[Discover the entrepreneur in you (Part 3a): How to make the pitch] I earlier wrote about the importance of making a good elevator pitch .. I should also share some thoughts on what makes a good elevator pitch..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 16:15:53 GMT[The Wisdom Of George Yeo] Why isn't GY running for president? Social media has shaken up and democratized conventional structures of power and influence. New avenues have opened up for asymmetrical warfare, and the former BG wisely senses that by staying out of the current political structure, he has the opportunity to create a role for himself that has not existed before.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 15:53:10 GMT[Voices of the People - Tan Kin Lian for President] Here are the endorsements of people from all walks of life.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 13:32:00 GMTThe President must be above politics. I don't understand why some people can't see that. Any President who speaks up against the Govt would be trampling on the role of Parliamentary Opposition. He would also violate the spirit of the law, because the moment he makes any kind of political commentary, he will have failed in his duty to be above politics (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 13:30:11 GMTIt is also possible PAP might not back any candidate at all, seeing as an endorsement from the ruling party could work against the candidate's favour (Nigel Tan, Chief Editor - TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 13:23:37 GMTSee the man not for his shortcomings, but for the 27 years of important lessons .. [Doing One's Duty Even If it Means Doing it Alone] .. [A Willingness To Move Out Of A Comfort Zone] .. [Compassion And Dedication] TOChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 13:19:25 GMTIn just 1 year, Mr Jeyaretnam has gone from being one of the most promising names in local opposition politics to being a laughing stock. If he wants to advance the cause of the Opposition, perhaps the best thing he can do is to wind up his party and quit politics altogether. He risks damaging the legacy of his father by becoming a marginal, irrelevant political figure (Cheryl Chan, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 11:20:04 GMT'Complimentary' copies of The New Paper being given out FREE as boycott hit sales.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 10:47:51 GMTGiven our govt's track record and effectiveness, I am confident HDB will not have any problem lowering the launch prices of new flats. What remains now is whether they will see it through (Getty Goh, Ascendant Assets - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 10:44:47 GMT[Hougang Residents to Unite At Jusco] On 26 June 2011, many Hougang residents would have signed up for one of the two '1-Day tour'' options. The 1st tour option is organized by PAP. The 2nd tour option by WP. Interestingly the visit to Jusco was added to the 1st tour option's itinerary. This means both tour groups are set to meet at Jusco @ Tebrau City Megamall on that day.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 10:38:51 GMTI refer to the recent incident involving 2 S'porean women who drove to JB for supper and were detained overnight by M'sian immigration officers. Apparently, they drove into a lane that was not manned. In contrast, the S'porean authorities .. (letters - TheStar, M'sia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 05:31:35 GMT[PAP takes hard look at election results: get to root of problem!] Party members and the subservient main stream media tirelessly extol the Emperor's new clothes but public opinion see things differently.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 04:31:40 GMTWary that they may become victims of a Minister specific strategy [pioneered by GMS], the newly appointed Ministers have done a U-turn on many PAP policies .. the easiest way to become popular and well liked is to spend money and make voters happy. As this new thinking catches on, I expect more Ministers and MPs to come forward with ways to spend money. Where however is all this money going to come from? (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 04:29:43 GMT[Know Our Customers] In my first BTO launch last month, nearly 14,000 S'poreans applied for 4,000 units. I asked HDB for their profile. There were many details, but some key points are tabulated below. I made the following observations ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 04:27:41 GMTDrs Leong Yan Hoi, Tan Lip Hong and Toh Beng Chye are medical doctors. They are also members of SDP's Healthcare Advisory Panel (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 02:17:16 GMT[What was it like 'inside'?] The following is a poem by Mr Tan about his time in detention (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 02:13:08 GMTThe 3-hour 'Post Election Transformation Talk', of which half was devoted to a Q-and-A session, featured 2 guest speakers - TOC's Mr Leong Sze Hian and former principal private secretary to then-DPM Goh Chok Tong, Mr Tan Jee Say (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 01:48:11 GMTPAP paid $4.2 million for the 82 seats they contested, while Opposition parties expended $1.34 million for the fight. Where did the money go? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 01:43:23 GMTIn a democracy [assuming S'pore is one], the will of the people matters. The role of the EP can be changed [without changing the constitution] if .. (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 16 Jun 2011 01:33:20 GMT'Strong executive powers not necessary to make an impact': Tan Kin Lianhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 22:34:33 GMTNo executive powers but President can still exert influence: Tan Kin Lianhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 22:30:34 GMTWith Mr Yeo's decision, the other Presidential hopefuls include former PAP MP Dr Tan Cheng Bock and former NTUC Income chief Tan Kin Lian. Former DPM Tony Tan has also not ruled out the possibility of running for the EP while President SR Nathan has not made any decision on whether he will seek re-election (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 22:28:26 GMTPolitical observer Derek da Cunha thinks "money does play a not insignificant part in an election campaign" here. "One must remember that the voter in S'pore is essentially voting for a party and not merely candidates. That is why visibility of the party logo in election posters is very important." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 22:11:09 GMTJB Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged M'sia's Immigration Dept to exempt S'poreans entering the country from having to use the new biometric system (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 21:58:46 GMTThe real problem is ... (Letter from Liaw Kok Hwee .. Letter from Soh Ah Yuen - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 21:54:46 GMTLast October, a S'porean Chinese woman and her Caucasian husband discovered their baby's blood group did not match theirs, and the baby's complexion also looked different. DNA test later revealed the baby was not biologically related to the husband. The centre had wrongly used another man's sperm in a in-vitro fertilisation procedure last January (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 21:47:22 GMT[Presidential Election - George Yeo] Several journalists have asked for my comments on the decision by BG George Yeo not to run for the Presidential election. Here is my reply ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 15:50:43 GMTIt has come to our attention that Temasek Review has published an article insinuating that former TOC Chief Editor Andrew Loh had "probably" absconded with TOC funds, in particular donations from our generous donors to help fund the operations of TOC. This is sheer fabrication. Andrew did not abscond with any funds at all. In fact, Andrew did not have any access to or control over TOC's funds.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 15:42:51 GMTIn view of the large number of comments to our article "HDB: $431,000 CPF - But homeless soon?", we have compiled an FAQ to help people have a better understanding of the various policies that affect cash-strapped S'poreans who may be trying to downgrade their homes .. (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 14:39:47 GMT"After considering all factors, I have come to the conclusion that, in this phase of my life, I can better contribute to the S'pore we all love in other ways. I have therefore decided not to run for the Presidency this August." (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 14:32:19 GMTIn a country where we are accustomed to the rules of the game being changed by PAP, it is about time the people play a part in changing the rules. Summarising my previous blog post and the current post, my premise for an expanded role for the President is this .. (Article 14)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 13:34:39 GMT[Statement on the Role of Elected President] This statement contains Tan Kin Lian's views on the role of the Elected President, in reply to statements made by several govt ministers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 10:33:50 GMTSingapore Airlines website develops engine trouble, and other 'how not to be an IT hub' tales.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 10:30:49 GMT[Lawyer for Yong Vui Kong urges Malaysia Parliament to appeal to ICJ] According to Mr Ravi, this would be his "final attempt" to save Yong.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 10:19:47 GMT[Besides labor and talents, S'poreans face competition of foreign money too] Since property price increases are foreign driven, what can the govt do to protect S'porean's dream of owning a house or flat? And how can ordinary S'poreans prepare for the money competition?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 09:14:09 GMTIf we are serious about corporate governance, the State ought to ensure that independent directors are in fact independent. To start, the State could select and maintain a 'Directors' Roll', by .. (Blinkymummy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 09:12:09 GMT[PAP MPs remain clueless about its dismal GE performance despite taking a 'hard' look] PAP should have contacted TRE and asked it to do a free post-mortem about its disastrous election campaign. Other than several contentious issues, the most important reason is PAP has completely lost touch with the aspirations of younger S'poreans who yearn for a more free, democratic and human society.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 09:06:25 GMT[Esprit de Corps of Team HGCC] The newly re-formed Hougang Constituency Committee, WP's grassroots organizing arm for Hougang SMC, held its 2nd meeting last evening.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 09:00:27 GMTSince my last post about the murder in AMK Park, I set myself the task of observing how many police patrols I could see in 1 week .. I did not see a SINGLE police patrol. All I saw were several patrol cars. I'd like to stress again that crime occurs because of an opportunity, and the belief of the perp that he can get away with it. SPF should heed public opinion (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 08:55:17 GMTMalaysia stepped up monitoring of govt websites Wednesday to stop a threatened hacking attack by Internet vigilante group Anonymous over govt acts of censorship, the police chief said (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 05:17:38 GMTThe SDP continued with its work on getting to know the residents in Sembawang and to speak up on their behalf. It is only when citizens come alive and participate actively in the nation's politics can we safeguard our future and our interests, and establish a truly responsible and democratic First World society. SDP will continue to help build such a society.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 05:06:28 GMTThe homeless in Singapore and Berkeley, California.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 04:56:47 GMT[The sad truth of growing old in S'pore] If you stop to think, what are the iconic images of elderly people in S'pore that come to mind? Sadly, it is not happy retired people enjoying the fruits of a life time of hard work. Instead, the images that most come to mind are the following ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 03:01:42 GMT['We moved so fast, we left our people behind'] In Part 1 of an exclusive interview, Dr Tan Cheng Bock speaks about his contributions as an MP, why he started his medical practice at a village, as well as detentions of the 'Marxist Conspirators' in 1987 (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 02:59:10 GMTMinister of Law, K. Shanmugam, explains that President Ong was not stonewalled when he asked the govt to provide details on the reserves.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 02:24:04 GMTST takes a dig at netizens for not taking their online activism into real life [One reader's response: certain pointers contain truth & stick inside your mind and it may form the basis of one's dominant political outlook]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 02:20:35 GMTLTA plans to install sound barriers to reduce train induced noise by at least 5 dB. What may sound like music to their engineers may drive others to bonkers. LTA has not pressured SMRT to accelerate the installation of safety barriers that could have spared 14-year-old Nitcharee from losing both her legs. Instead, they are embarking on an expensive exercise to shave 5 decibels (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 02:11:12 GMT[Humiliating tourists is wrong] If the tourists are guilty of illegal entry by driving a car through the check point, they should be charged in court. Humiliating tourists is wrong. But Home Minister Hishammuddin should also punish the immigration officers (MalaysiaKini)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 02:05:16 GMTThe policy of enforced consumption is starting to give way. This 'mean' policy was implemented in hospitals as well as HDB. Minimum ceilings were set .. It was really cock policy. The crap about people who have a few dollars more adding to the housing queue or Class C ward queue is a big bull. Turning off the tap and blame consumers is a lame excuse (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 01:35:26 GMT[Enhancing Staff-Family Relationships] Having working and nursing employees communicate with families or relatives on a frequent and honest basis is extremely important; the employed personnel have professional commitments, while the latter has obligation to continue caring - and engaging - their kith and kin residing in the homes (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 15 Jun 2011 00:12:10 GMT[PAP grassroots members in Aljunied: still business as usual] "The former PAP MPs are still our advisers. We're working with People's Association .. PA continues to fund the RCs and its activities, and the constituency managers remain to assist them." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 23:26:01 GMTMr Teo thanked him for defending Home Team officers during the operations to track down terrorist fugitive Mas Selamat. Said Mr Shanmugam: "It's not possible to have a system where people would just point fingers all the time. They have to understand the system, the complexities and that you cannot completely be error-free. The tribute DPM Teo has paid to me is actually more fitting for Mr Wong Kan Seng.." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 23:09:11 GMT[SMS alerts from next month on heavy rain and water level] Although advancements in computer weather prediction models have helped improve our weather forecasts over the years, there are limitations ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 23:00:09 GMTThe Flood: Did PUB pulled wool over the eyes of ST commentary writer about Cuscaden Rd?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 22:52:46 GMTAs a resident of Bukit Timah, there are 2 issues I have been following closely over the past year. Though at 1st glance seem unrelated, they both pertain to our natural environment and how rapidly the landscape of S'pore is changing. Like many S'poreans, I still feel what is missing is a spirit of engagement that sees the potentially transformative power of citizen opinion (Vinita Ramani Mohan - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 22:49:50 GMT[Beware of cultural Alzheimer's] I disagree with Mr Paul Chan that cemeteries should be redeveloped to meet housing needs. Without these historical places, S'poreans will suffer from cultural Alzheimer's because we will not know who we are and how to relate to other people (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 22:40:44 GMT[Redeveloping Bukit Brown fine but conserve slice of social landscape] The nation-building efforts of S'pore should encompass our history and heritage .. redevelopment of Bukit Brown does not necessarily have to involve the clearing away of the graves (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 22:35:52 GMT[Why it's not wise to redevelop Bukit Brown] Why create artificial green lungs when there is already one so rich on its own? Not everything can be measured in dollars and cents (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 22:31:27 GMT[Why destroy natural habitat when other land available?] As former MND Minister Mah Bow Tan noted, the next 2 areas to be developed are Simpang and Tengah. A huge plot of land also remains available in Punggol West (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 22:26:00 GMTEn bloc sales: Setting age limit too rigid (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 22:04:12 GMT[Kebun Baru PCF kindergarten to up fees for PRs, foreigners] AMK GRC MP Inderjit Singh: "We want to differentiate what we're charging to locals and foreigners. Costs have gone up, and to keep PCF education as affordable as possible for S'poreans, I think we need to ... have it more differentiated." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 22:00:11 GMT[Nightingale Nursing Home] Anger over mistreatment of elderly patient.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 21:53:21 GMTCorporate Governance Council recommends slew of changes to corporate governance code (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 21:48:40 GMTA friend recently asked, "Why? Why does Chiam deserve a tribute dinner from any of us who are not residents of Potong Pasir? What interests of non-Potong Pasir residents has he advanced all these years?" (Ravi Philemon - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 17:15:34 GMT[Discover the entrepreneur in you (Part 4): Tenacity - a highly useful quality] I consider myself fortunate compared to what other entrepreneurs have to go through. I found this list of 50 famously successful people who had failed initially .. That included Bill Gates and Paul Allen ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 17:11:44 GMTP N Balji: PAP doesn't understand how social media works.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 15:48:14 GMT[Hougang Memories & Our S'pore Story] Last Saturday, Shin Leong met up with several S'poreans interested to play their part in capturing the memories of a selected group of 10-odd S'poreans who has ever lived [or are still living] in the old geographical area known as Hougang.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 15:42:19 GMT"With an ageing MRT system that has been in operation since 1987 and increased train frequencies to better serve commuters, LTA recognises that some residents living particularly close to the MRT viaducts may experience increased noise levels." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 15:38:04 GMTMuch as "Opp" parties have made gains in GE2011, they still have a huge task to win over the pre-Internet generation, for whom gratitude = servitude to PAP. The following FB excerpt shows why .. (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 15:34:13 GMTThere are probably many others, but I shall just focus on 2 today .. Alex Au blogged about hospital bed crunch today, almost 1 year after his last post on this topic. In Temasek Review Emeritus, a Ms Serene XM Cai complained about delays in her treatment at SGH, questioning whether she received 2nd class service because she was a B-class patient (SingaporeMD)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 15:29:16 GMTA spokesperson from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Yahoo! S'pore that the 2 women had met its consular officers to discuss the issue, with the women also recounting the incident to them (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 15:24:22 GMTThe mark of a civilised society is when its members can come together peacefully and tell the govt of their grievances. It cannot be repeated enough: The govt serves the people, not vice versa (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 08:09:56 GMT[Hospital bed supply trailing far behind increase in elderly numbers] How is it MOH can plan for 1 percent per annum growth when data so easily available produces a figure several times faster?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 08:01:10 GMTIf PAP Community Foundation is meant to be the social and charitable arm of PAP, why then are its branches operating [preschooling] as though they are separate business entities that are charged to earn their own upkeep? If we are to be convinced the govt continues to be invested in education as a leveler in society and it is the "best way to uplift the lives of our people", the way forward is definitely not by passing the buck to parents.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 07:58:05 GMT"If you have a flood, just carefully think who is more likely to get the drainage put right and have the flood alleviated as quickly as possible .." - TODAY newspaper, "MM Lee explains his tough stance against Opposition, throws a challenge", 29 April 2006http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 04:58:40 GMTShouldn't all those who served, from the time the ministerial salaries were increased till the date the review changes took effect, have a moral obligation to refund the amount deemed excessive? There may be practical difficulties [ministers may have made bad investments and so may not have money to refund] but the issue is not a practical or matter, it is a moral one (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 04:54:46 GMTWhen the headline says, "Singtel ups the ante", one assumes the biggest telco in town is achieving something worth crowing about. Instead, it simply confirms what is public knowledge: paying customers have been short changed for their internet access speeds. The curiosity is that CASE's Seah Seng Choon does not seem to be bothered by the sub par performance (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 04:42:33 GMTAll 3 telcos have typically advertised their fixed and mobile-broadband services using the maximum speeds, which are usually not attainable. This has led to consumers crying foul for not getting the speeds they expect (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 04:35:00 GMTPAP kindergartens to raise fees to cover 'cost of operations' [lots of Readers' Responses]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 04:28:23 GMTWe'll take a look at the reasons for Minister Khaw Boon Wan's cautious outlook on the market, and consider if it makes sense for us to be worried as well (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 04:19:28 GMTSolve JB crawl chaos (letters - TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 04:14:59 GMTI believe many S'poreans are looking forward .. I also think PAP is planning for a Malay president this time round, and Abullah Tarmugi seems a likely candidate. But with the ire against anything PAP at the moment, Abdullah may have a problem in a contest. The GRC is not working to PAP's scheme of things. This elected presidency is turning into another big headache (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 03:27:47 GMTIn the upcoming Presidential Elections, one thing which has greatly concerned my favourite candidate Mr Tan Kin Lian are smear tactics by the Singapore mainstream media [msm]. I share the concerns of Mr Tan and his wife. To understand how the msm smears a person, it is useful to look at a recent smear campaign conducted by the msm against Dr Susan Lim ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 03:08:10 GMTWith retirement prospects on shakier ground and with life spans increasing, who can blame the baby boomers for wanting to hang on? Yet who can blame younger workers for resenting them? What should employers be able to do when an older worker hangs on well past his productive years? Are some older employees blocking the way for new blood? (9 experts share their views - NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 14 Jun 2011 00:04:20 GMTThe msm has seldom been kind to SDP. It was only in the recent GE when the Govt-controlled press found the alternative media and internet giving it a run for its money, that it was forced to give fairer and more balanced coverage. SDP is a party ahead of its time for 2 main reasons .. (Ng E-Jay -- SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 23:31:44 GMTI met him again recently at a dinner held in his honour soon after GE 2011. Cheerful and in great spirit, he is a courageous politician who held the Opposition flag flying for nearly 3 decades despite all odds. I have only admiration for him, his stamina, courage, his humility and willingness to serve the people of S'pore (Teo Soh Lung - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 23:25:19 GMTDiscover the hustle and bustle, sights and sounds of Singapore's Tekka and Tiong Bahru wet market (CNNGo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 23:23:24 GMTThe Govt should be taking an active role in this area and not leave it to private individuals to turn it into a money-making industry. Elderly people should not be lumped together and left to spend their twilight years in "nursing homes". There are clearly 2 groups of elderly .. (Dr George Wong, STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 23:20:15 GMTMore public awareness of abuse will help (Laura Hwang, Singapore Council of Women's Organisations - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 23:13:46 GMTIncrease punishment of traffickers and pimps (Braema Mathi, AWARE - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 23:11:27 GMTTheir ordeal happened last Thursday when they drove across the causeway for supper. When they reached M'sia customs, both women did not obtain entry chops on their passports (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 22:36:24 GMTMalaysian Minister Hishammuddin said the biometric system that M'sia implemented earlier this month is working well and was instrumental in the arrest of JI agent Agus. Mr Hishammuddin admitted there were some hiccups with the new system at the Johor and S'pore entry points but said "the matter is being resolved" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 22:31:12 GMTI refer to the report, "It's human traffic, not the new system". The solution lies in having paid express lanes at the Causeway and the 2nd Link, for those who are prepared to pay and are in a hurry (Tan Kok Tim - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 22:24:41 GMTThe traffic snarl plaguing the Causeway and the 2nd Link on weekends is causing some frequent travellers to hold back on trips up north (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 22:16:38 GMTYesterday, SingTel disclosed, for the 1st time, the "typical speeds" of its mobile broadband plans - addressing a perennial bugbear among telco customers that the actual broadband speeds were a far cry from the maximum advertised broadband speeds (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 22:10:38 GMTThe historical Balestier area is going through a makeover, with swanky new residential projects and several hotels now seen lining its streets. It is also attracting high demand from young couples and professionals looking for a convenient city fringe property. Analysts say the massive 421,000-sq-ft Zhongshan Park hotel and retail project will boost its attractiveness even further (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 22:00:25 GMTOne parent, whose children are in PAP Community Foundation [PCF] kindergartens and childcare centres, expressed his reservations of a possible fee hike. "If they want to further increase fees, there may be parents who withdraw completely from kindergarten education." He added that most parents who send their children to PCF are those "who can't afford" the fees of private kindergartens (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 21:54:58 GMTStaff morale not in the pink of health (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 21:44:42 GMTLack of new blood still a problem for law firms in Singapore (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 21:39:44 GMT"Save the World's Saddest Dolphins" campaign in Singapore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 20:56:57 GMT[Discussions With Canine Activists] This evening, Shin Leong held informal discussions with a group of canine activists [dogs' rescuers/ lovers], including 2 veteran canine activists residing in Hougang SMC. They updated Shin Leong with the latest issues, their concerns and ideas surrounding dog welfare, including the following ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 14:00:42 GMTShe was the 1st in line at her constituency's Meet-the-People session that night, having arrived a few hours earlier to ensure she got to see her new MP, Sylvia Lim (Leong Sze Hian and Ko Siew Huey - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 13:57:11 GMTThe OWC has been slammed by critics everywhere, saying it degrades women by saying it is the wives' duty to make love better than "1st-class prostitutes" to solve familial problems (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 11:42:01 GMTThe pitfalls of social media (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 11:39:18 GMTIn recent weeks, no less than 3 ministers have taken to blogs and FB to connect with netizens and explain their polices directly to the web community (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 11:35:47 GMTLast year, an economics professor from MIT strongly criticized S'pore's state-linked enterprise model, urging S'pore to re-think the "Temasek model" and let the private sector take the lead. Prof Huang's remarks are worth re-looking as S'pore enters a new phase of its development, marked by widespread desire on the part of its citizens to play a role in shaping the nation's future (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 11:25:25 GMT[Buses and trains make policy U-turn] At long last, the govt is paying more heed to its social responsibility. Finally, it realises it cannot go on prioritising the concerns of the big corporations, the rich, and the powerful. But this is only just the beginning. Keep up the pressure .. Without these, the U-turn will not be permanent.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 10:55:35 GMTThough Mr Khaw has taken steps to demonstrate he is prepared to take a proactive approach, he will need to find solutions to those tough problems soon - as his performance could have a bearing on how his party as a whole is judged between now and 2016 (Nigel Tan, Chief Editor, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 10:51:08 GMT[Nightingale Nursing Home Mistreats Patient] Staff member disciplined? Care standards lapses? No one was persecuted, no heads rolled for this, and the home was merely suspended from taking new patients. Outrageous.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 10:32:09 GMT[Why 6,000 foetuses were aborted yearly by our married women in S'pore?] Transitioning.Org received 2 saddening mails from our readers in the space of a day last week. The 2 emails I realised could represent the tip of the iceberg whereby many of our married women could have either secretly abort their foetuses without informing their husbands, or do so in agreement with their spouses.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 10:23:55 GMT[Reader's Comment: Some points which I thought are necessary to raise here in this forum, partly to spread awareness but also more importantly, for MIWs to hopefully clarify for public knowledge ..] Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 10:16:40 GMTExpat debate : BG Yeo responds : The New Paper 12/03/1999http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 10:04:40 GMTAs the concept of EP enters its 21st year, how the next President behaves and acts will show to S'poreans that their money is being thrown at the right person and for the right cause. This is what the coming presidential elections must be all about. We need a President who is not just a guardian of our reserves but also a guardian angel of our national consciousness (P N Balji, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 09:47:32 GMTCynical Investor has replied to my previous blog posting. I would like to thank him for the hard work he put into his posting. It is difficult to have a good internet debate and I am enjoying this exchange tremendously. Let us now move on to the points raised by Cynical Investor in his posting .. (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 03:24:46 GMTAs we prepare for the Presidential Elections and consider the candidates, let us look for one who would, more importantly, be capable of inspiring S'poreans to higher ideals. The EP contest is not just about protecting the reserves. It is also about things just as, if not much more, important. Let's not lose sight of this (Andrew Loh, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 03:22:38 GMTIn her presentation at the "What Youth Want" forum, SDP's Ms Michelle Lee, a candidate for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC, drew the distinction between GenX and GenY youths, saying: "Understanding these distinctions is the key to effective engagement with them." (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 03:16:23 GMT[Good democratic system] View by Michael13, posted as a comment in TKL's blog .. View by Tan Kin Lian, in reply to Michael13.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 01:14:41 GMT[Disassociating Party Activism From Grassroots Volunteerism] If it remains oblivious to the perceptions harboured by a significant segment of the society, it risks being gradually sidelined in time to come.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 00:46:19 GMTNathan has been quoted in the media that he had done a lot, quietly, as President. Does the President know the numbers [the value of the reserves] already, or would he be able to tell the people how many more years before the numbers will be available? Any progress been made in this, as it is the 1st thing any president guarding the reserves must know? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 00:32:56 GMTIndomitable Chiam See Tong: My improbable hero (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 13 Jun 2011 00:09:33 GMTMy daughter, who is in Sec 3, has 1 week of extended curriculum time in the 1st week of the holidays. My family wanted to go on a short vacation, but my daughter was reluctant to leave. Last year, she returned from our vacation earlier because .. Now, she does not want to miss any of the daily dance practices for a concert next month, otherwise she might be replaced (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 22:51:01 GMTThe next step: "I'm doing more in-depth analysis, looking at the data and experience we've accumulated over the years." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 22:44:28 GMT[The Anxiety of the Presidential Election - Anxiety About The Candidates] With stringent criteria of integrity, good character, reputation, ability and experience in order to qualify as a candidate for the election, what is there to worry about? A president voted in by the people must be the right person to symbolise the country. After all, he is the people's choice (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 22:07:31 GMT[Presidency not a backdoor for political agenda] If there are battles to be fought, Parliament is the appropriate platform. Such candidates should have taken the opportunity to take part in the recent GE to earn themselves parliamentary seats to push for the changes they want (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 22:04:50 GMTHey We Care!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:58:39 GMTThe challenge is getting locals to fill jobs in the long-term care sector, to reduce reliance on foreigners (Therese Leung is an associate fellow at SIIA and a senior research fellow at CHP&M at NUS. Sumytra Menon is an instructor at the Faculty of Law and adjunct senior research fellow at CHP&M - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:56:13 GMTMOH will be conducting a review of the nursing home industry, following the telecast of a video recording that showed an elderly resident being mistreated in Nightingale Nursing Home (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:51:04 GMT[Before the expectations bubble bursts ...] We need to return housing policy to the fundamentals of home ownership and affordability (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:47:06 GMTWith exams over, it is that time of the year when graduating students send out resumes to land the ideal job. Exaggerations in resumes are common: Some experts have estimated 40 to 70 per cent of individuals do that. So is there a way to prevent, or at least minimise, instances of resume embellishment? (Vivien Lim is Assoc Prof, NUS Business School. Rashimah Rajah, a PhD student - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:36:34 GMTThe Singapore Vehicle Traders Association is urging the Govt to scrap the 2-per-cent transfer fee for used cars. The tax was introduced in the '70s. Buyers are liable to a flat fee of S$10 per car, plus 2 per cent of the vehicle's value. "In the '70s, I believe it was ok because car prices were lower and there was no COE. But now, it would be just like a tax on tax." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:29:29 GMTM'sia looking at ways to reduce congestion and improve the flow of visitors at Causeway, 2nd Link (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:24:39 GMTENGAGING THE YOUTH (March 1993)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 13:34:29 GMT[Temasek Review's donations] Let the criteria for donation not be clouded by fears of fraud, but be guided by whether you support their cause. However, I'm writing this piece to tell people why they should not donate to TR.. because you should not support such a site (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 11:04:20 GMT"We are organizing a 1-day tour to Johor for some durian, shopping and sightseeing fun! Lunch, Dinner and Durians will be provided. Adult: $58 .. Child: $55" (Aljunied Community)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 09:10:51 GMTConsumers have been advised to avoid eating Korean noodles "Shin Ramen" and "Shin Ramyun" until tests confirm they are safe for consumption. Malaysian Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow: "We urge consumers not to eat the noodles until our tests show they are free from contaminants." Liow also said that all Taiwanese food products had been put on level 4 alert (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 06:37:58 GMTThe situation in Germany, where nearly two dozen have died and 2,000 more have been sickened from E.coli contamination, is just the latest example of the potential perils in the food chain (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 06:31:41 GMTBesides the Chinese books mentioned in previous post, George also likes 'The Dream of Red Chamber'. Perhaps, after the reality check, when George returns to S'pore after his short break, it is better for him to remain in the sweet dream of a foreign minister rather than returning to heaven like a jade stone (Piji Tailai)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 05:25:28 GMTA US professor gives his views about the Temasek investment strategy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 05:12:28 GMT[More on George Yeo and his band of Youths -- FOLLOW-UP INTERVIEW WITH THE STRAITS TIMES ON 10 JUNE 2011] I was asked more about George's appeal to youths and his presidential bid. The article was published today.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 03:59:46 GMTIf you wish to be elected by the people, them you must answer to the people .. As we move into a new era of political awareness in the electorate, so too must the role of the President evolve. We need to demand that Presidential hopefuls go beyond telling us they are qualified, but their plans for taking S'pore forward (Howard Lee, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 02:34:23 GMT[A view on the Internal Security Act] I have a discussion on Facebook with Sophia Ong on the role of the Elected President in the administration of the Internal Security Act. Here are her suggestions but it may require some change to the Constitution ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 02:13:46 GMTThe internet is a tool which contributes to the "progress of humankind as a whole" and should be available to all. That is the view of Frank La Rue, the UN's Special Rapporteur, tasked with writing a report looking into global access to the internet as a medium for freedom of opinion and expression. In the final document presented to the Human Rights Council this week, he concluded that .. (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 02:02:47 GMT[Do we need an Elected President?] Many people think we do not need to pay $4.2 million for a President to do the job. I agree .. Some people think we do not need to have an EP and can go back to the old type of ceremonial president. I also agree ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 01:57:36 GMTThe New Paper interviews Mr Tan about his experience since announcing his plans to stand for Presidential Elections, and why it took him a few days to confirm his bid.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 01:50:15 GMTHe's worth hundreds of millions and loves his art collection, fine wine and fast cars. But nothing in life came easy for this son of a tongkang operator who dared to dream. Singapore magnate Ow Chio Kiat talks to editor-at-large Conrad Raj (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 01:41:27 GMT[Is 'Sorry' The New PAP Buzzword?] To really repent and say "sorry" to a nation for past sins takes courage and sincerity. But it would stink to high heavens if it was just a ploy to buy votes and fix Opposition. Now we have the Health Minister, Gan Kim Yong "apologise to the family". The whole incident takes a new twist when .. (FeedMeToTheFish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 12 Jun 2011 00:01:08 GMTElderly woman had been complaining of abuse for 3 years (Jeanette Tan, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 23:56:05 GMT[Are you living in a hole in the ground?] Flash Floods seemed to be the 'in' thing these days. They are becoming so common these days, that they are rivalling the Flash Mob crowds, giving them a run for their money! But while the Flash Mobs would customarily disappear without much of a trace or hoo-ha, the same cannot be said of the Flash Floods!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 14:20:02 GMT[Expert panel to review flood protection measures in S'pore] New Minister for Environment and Water Resources Dr Vivian Balakrishnan made the announcement in a blog post Saturday, as S'pore residents experienced another bout of heavy rains in the morning.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 14:18:26 GMTIt was 8 p.m. on a Thursday night when our 1st couple came for financial counseling (Alex Lew, Lee Mei Wei, Ko Siew Huey and Leong Sze Hian provide free financial counseling every Thursday from 8 pm to 10 pm, at Block 108, Potong Pasir Ave 1) TOChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 14:13:49 GMT[President has executive authority] It can be argued that custodial or veto functions of the President represent an area of executive authority, where the President has been conferred discretion. This discretion is subject, where applicable, to the mechanics laid out in the Constitution. Such discretion is not an exercise of legislative or judicial power; it is an exercise of executive power.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 12:52:00 GMTNewbie PAP MPs: Pay cut will drive 'talent' away (lots of Readers' Responses)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 12:17:28 GMTPresident 'has no role to advance his policy agenda' (lots of Readers' Comments)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 06:43:05 GMT[Discover the entrepreneur in you - Part 3: Making the right pitch] An important skill an entrepreneur should have is how to make an elevator pitch. What's an elevator pitch?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 06:11:55 GMT[Listing S'pore's physical assets] Dear Kin Lian: I would like to share my opinion on an issue with you. One of the points mentioned by (our late President) Mr. Ong TC was "That the Accountant-General had informed him it would take 52 man-years to provide him with a list of the Govt's physical assets"..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 03:04:02 GMTBuried in the back pages of Saturday's paper was a little known oddity that S'pore's PowerSeraya had been quietly selling surplus generation capacity to M'sia. Let's get this clear. S'pore power stations have excess production capacity over domestic demand. Surely you don't need Economics 101 to appreciate that should have led to a price decrease in electricity tariff! (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 02:51:16 GMTThe well being of the people is the govt's responsibility. Remember, it is the people who elect the govt to look after them. The people do not elect the govt to tell them "you mess up, just too bad, your problem". Go back to basics and think of providing every citizen a roof over his head first. Look after the people (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 11 Jun 2011 02:42:55 GMT[Stemming the tide of workers] The S'pore govt has cut down by nearly half the number of foreign workers, and there will be fewer foreign work permits and professional visit passes as well as PRs. "The election result has become a hard reality for the govt. PAP has lost its stranglehold. It will no longer be able to decide all the options in future."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 23:59:46 GMTAs a parent of a recent polytechnic graduate who has failed to gain admission to our local universities, I can fully understand the frustration of Ms Looi Pek Hong ["Offer better chance for poly grads in local unis"] Madam Tan Joo Kim - STForum Onlinehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 22:43:18 GMTI totally empathise with Ms Looi Pek Hong ["Offer better chance for poly grads in local unis"] regarding her son's experience in applying for a place in a local university. My son is faced with a similar predicament (Madam Irene Koh - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 22:40:16 GMT[Elected President has 'no role to advance own policy agenda'] The Constitutional position states that, among others, the President "has custodial powers, not executive powers. In other words, he can veto or block Govt actions in specified areas, but he has no role to advance his own policy agenda." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 21:50:25 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock was not afraid to stand up for his own viewshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 21:43:10 GMTThe mall's management had swung into action Monday because "the weather is unpredictable and worse storms had been forecast. Our intention was to 1st protect our mechanical, electrical and other critical equipment." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 21:38:31 GMTWill land sales benefit home-buyers or speculators? (Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 21:34:45 GMTWith concerns mounting that there will be an oversupply in the private home market, property developers are likely to bid for sites with the most attractive locations, such as those near MRT stations. Among these, the sites on Alexandra Road and Bishan Street 14 are likely to attract much interest (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 21:32:19 GMT"The directors must ensure monies are being transferred for legitimate reasons. In particular, they should be signatories to the cheque." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 21:28:05 GMTOoi Huey Tyng is senior VP and head of cards and unsecured loans at DBS Bank (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 21:24:44 GMTI refer to the ST reports "PAP appoints Khaw Boon Wan as Party Chairman" and "Gan to focus on 3 key health areas" (Leong Sze Hian - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 15:59:58 GMTDenmark regularly ranks among the world's happiest countries, and it also saved most Danish Jews during World War II. What explains the society's success? (TheAtlantic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 15:46:05 GMT[High cost of living - what the government can do] Mr Tan Kin Lian's very 1st article in TOC from way back in 2008.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 13:08:08 GMT[Ministry of Law statement on Elected President] Several journalists have asked for my response to the Ministry of Law's statement. (REPLY: Please read this statement ..)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 12:58:19 GMTA statement by Law Minister K Shanmugam has explained what the President is elected and empowered to do under the Singapore Constitution (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 12:44:28 GMTFormer SM Jayakumar says he is surprised and disappointed. Well, truth be told, I am just as disappointed with the statements made by Jayakumar which has only served to confirm what many of us have long believed to be true .. Ultimately, I believe S'poreans would like the President to be able to counsel the govt. And only if he can truly do that, can we honestly say we have our next people's president (Jumari Naiyan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 09:57:42 GMT[Beyond guarding the reserves] Dear Mr Tan: I live away from S'pore but have been following recent events especially the Elections and also now the Presidential Elections (letter from Robert Chia, Professor of Management, University of Strathclyde, SCOTLAND)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 09:45:05 GMTFollowing a couple of horrendous incidents involving security lapses of water supply at Sembawang GRC, the Singapore Democrats are making arrangements to meet with residents to hear their concerns and see what can be done to address their concerns (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 04:50:06 GMT[Legal and Moral Role of President...] Lets not forget the president is the only leader in the country who is voted by all citizens eligible to vote. While it is true the President cannot legally force PAP govt to accept his recommendations, they carry great weight and moral authority because he represents the people of S'pore who supported his agenda.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 04:44:43 GMTHe was appointed CEO of EMA in Jan 2009. He left in April 2011(CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 03:38:43 GMTI Never Felt Sorry for Ex FM George Yeo's Defeathttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 03:32:46 GMT[Congratulations to Oliva Lum - World Entrepreneur of the year] It is something that makes entrepreneurs in S'pore proud. One of our own being named as entrepreneur of the year, not in S'pore or Asia, but in the world.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 03:06:25 GMT[Justice and the rule of law] A few people have asked for my personal views on the following ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 02:33:33 GMT[President power to veto legislation] The President may withhold assent to certain bills only. He then must refer the matter to a tribunal under Article 100. The tribunal must then decide whether Bill directly or indirectly circumvent or curtail the discretionary powers of the President. Late President Ong TC used this provision to refer a bill before the tribunal which decided against him.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 01:20:33 GMTJayakumar's reality check about discretionary custodial powers was a rude reminder of limitations that frustrated Ong Teng Cheong to no end .. In all other areas, he added for effect, "the president, under the Constitution, must act on advice of the Cabinet." But why is the man who has stepped down from office reading the riot act? Does he, like WKS and MBT, still have Gurkhas providing 24/7 security for their private homes at taxpayers' expense? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 00:06:18 GMT[My statements - Presidential Election] I have issued a few statements in connection with my participation in the Presidential Election. They are posted here .. Some people [including respected govt leaders] have been misquoting my intentions in the social and mainstream media. I urge them to check the facts and read my statements correctly before they pass any opinions about my intentions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 10 Jun 2011 00:03:25 GMTPreviously I had written a posting about MP Yeo which caused a small firestorm in cyberspace. MP Yeo replied the next day. After a cautious silence, the S'pore msm finally decided to put up some articles to "close the matter" and "move on". The intent of these articles is to try to give the impression there is nothing wrong. Cheow Xin Yin from Today was tasked to write. Her article is really quite cute .. (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 23:56:21 GMTThis is a follow up to the previous post on DPM Tony Tan's role in university education reform. There are a number of objections and replies to what was posted here and elsewhere. I think it's fair only if I addressed some of these. Apart from that, there are new points to be made here as well (Furry Brown Dog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 23:44:58 GMTI firmly believe what we are setting out to do now as a nation is to lay the foundation for a different kind of Presidency. I do not believe an Elected President should wait for marching orders from the Constitution to open his mouth and speak up on policy issues. There is, after all, no gagging order imposed upon the President (Article 14)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 23:40:11 GMTAs the presidential election nears, we need to think through how we should vote and ensure we have the right candidate as our next President. I would put the qualities needed for the highest position under 4 titles .. (Patrick Liew - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 23:29:40 GMT"It will be helpful if he or she [the new Temasek CEO] adopts a consultative leadership style and obtains the buy-in from key stakeholders at Temasek before making any significant organisational changes." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 23:21:34 GMTThe national feedback unit REACH's methods lack enough mass appeal and awareness. The conclusion of GE 2011 has left some virtual networks under-utilised; instead of letting these go to waste, admin teams should work towards tapping netizens' minds to continue conversations on a variety of current affairs and policy matters (Kwan Jin Yao - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 23:08:25 GMTDespite complaints that prices of food have gone up, people can still get a decent meal for $2.50. A survey released by Consumers Association of Singapore on Thursday found 54 per cent of non-air-conditioned food stalls it checked sold dishes for $2.50 or less (Jessica Lim - ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 22:53:58 GMTMOH should be prudent to ensure adjustments made to existing programs are sustainable in the long run, and will not add to future costs. The rationale should be to have a program that is as much self-funded as possible, so people have an equal stake in managing their health costs (Jim Teoh - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 22:45:43 GMTI read with dismay ['Bed crunch time again at some public hospitals']. It is a shame while we promote medical tourism, we are unable to take good care of our own people. Soon we may need to extend use of Medisave for more purposes in M'sian hospitals, to alleviate bed crunch in our hospitals (Tan Poh Chye - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 22:32:58 GMT[Sharp property price increases cannot go on forever, he says] Analysts told MediaCorp the message of prudence to potential buyers was not new and would have minimal impact on the market. Of greater importance, they said, are the prices that developers will pay for land during the land sales (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 22:25:55 GMTReal estate analyst Tesjawi Chunduri told Yahoo! S'pore that she agrees with Minister Khaw's views (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 22:22:03 GMTTraditionally, there are 3 main reasons why people buy private residential property .. (Ong Kah Seng is senior manager, research - Asia Pacific at Cushman & Wakefield)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 22:18:32 GMTWhy 2013? Well, this is because an unprecedented number of housing units are expected to enter the market then (Colin Tan is head, research and consultancy, at Chesterton Suntec International - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 22:13:54 GMTBroadcaster ESPN Star Sports is suing landbanking firm Profitable Plots, which is under police investigation following complaints of cheating, for failing to pay close to S$4.9 million. Meanwhile, investigations by CAD into Profitable Plots are ongoing after 229 complaints were made by investors who claimed they were cheated of S$23.5 million (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 22:03:49 GMTWe refer to Mr Alan Lee's letter 'Reduce ERP rates if there is road work'. LTA minimises disruption to existing traffic when carrying out major roadworks by providing lane-for-lane replacement. Thus ERP is still applied so that the expressway remains smooth-flowing. If rates are reduced or removed, more motorists will use the road and it will create more congestion which we do not want (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 21:57:17 GMTWe could create an ERI where commuters are credited with, say, S$1 when passing through the gantry. If effective, it would spread out the congestion. There is also a secondary economic benefit: Greater productivity from longer man-hours, as commuters reach their workplace earlier and leave later (Leonard Loo Kok Swee - Voices, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 21:50:09 GMTWe refer to the recent press coverage regarding the unfortunate incidents at several pre-schools. This matter is of great concern to the public but should be viewed with a balanced perspective (Letter from Joseph Lefort Head, Secretariat For the Management Committee Association of Catering Professionals, Singapore - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 21:43:54 GMTAged 56, "Crazy Horse" Nasir died yesterday afternoon in the Malaysian state of Terengganu, after falling into a coma last week. He will always be fondly remembered for the goal that inspired a come-from-behind Malaysia Cup win, with Quah Kim Song's diving header in extra-time sealing Singapore's victory (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 21:40:02 GMTIf you have less than say $184,500 in 2013, because you are required to set aside your MRA from your OA in excess of the MS, you may only be able to withdraw $5,000. Will the MS and MRA continue to increase from 2013? (Leong Sze Hian - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 17:08:26 GMTCheck out over 100 of the Best Blogs in Singapore! (alvinology)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 16:48:38 GMTBut the current reality is the Presidency is no longer an appointed position. The onus thus rests with the community to ensure there are suitably qualified candidates from the community. Failing which, the community can take the initiative to identify, actively cultivate and prepare a suitable person to contest the next presidential election in 2017 (Jumari Naiyan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 16:44:50 GMTSuper 8: Council of Presidential Advisers [Or why Mr Tan Kin Lian's idea of President's personal council starts appealing to me...] You're a truly worthy Presidential candidate who have done an amazing job to reach the people well with your original idea. Although some of us may point out the idea will need some fine-tuning, hey, it's a commendable start.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 16:31:48 GMTThe supporter told Yahoo! S'pore he did not discuss the matter with Chiam or his wife, Lina Chiam, beforehand .. passed the forms to the couple Thursday evening at their Meet the People session (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 16:24:18 GMTMentoring Our Youth in Hougang.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 16:19:31 GMTAttended the session organised by Institute of Policy Studies. IPS invited the key political parties to each send a P75 rep (Readers' Comments: [Vitali said... Love, love your example! Could never put it better than this]. [laissezfaire said... very insightful observations!]) Blinkymummyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 14:57:14 GMT[Powers of the Elected President] I am aware of the role of the Elected President and limitation of President's powers as prescribed in the constitution. My understanding is same as expressed by Mr Jayakumar. Some people have expressed the view that the President should have the moral authority to influence the govt .. I hope that, within the limited constitutional powers..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 14:36:10 GMTResponding to "this" .. The author feels the president should be free to speak out on things the president thinks the govt is doing wrong. I had said the president has to remain silent on many things (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 12:36:59 GMT[Would we be at Square '0' if Tony Tan is president?] He no doubt has offered some distinguished service to the GOVT, has served it loyally throughout, including returning to the cabinet even after having left. But, unfortunately, he is not a people-oriented person despite his polite and pleasant disposition. A mathematician by profession, HE IS A TECHNOCRAT THROUGH AND THROUGH.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 12:22:27 GMTMrs Joan Fong [daughter of the late Hon Sui Sen] clarifies that she was not the 'Joan Hon' who wrote that George Yeo is not suitable to be elected president. We want to thank Mrs Fong .. We present here in full, the 3 comments 'Joan Hon' posted on our article, "Tan Cheng Bock vs George Yeo for president?" (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 12:09:05 GMTDid Temasek Holdings misrepresent $40bn investment profits? (Source: The above article has been published on many online forums, including but not limited to HWZ, SBF and multiple facebook pages)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 12:01:22 GMTA 50-year-old businessman, Mohammed Raffi, turned up at the Elections Department on Thursday to collect forms to contest the Presidential Elections. He said he did so because a friend had promised to be his campaign manager. Mr Raffi said he retired three years ago after he "made his bundle". He did not disclose whether he was or had been a CEO or chairman of a company. [CNA]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 08:48:32 GMTWP has co-opted 3 new members into its CEC, with at least 6 members slated to hold new appointments after the council held its 1st post GE meeting. Meanwhile, party chief Low Thia Khiang said he is open to the idea of constructing void deck offices in Aljunied and Hougang for its newly elected MPs to conduct their MPS (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 08:47:31 GMTJobless Malay master degree holder used to earn $6000/mth feeling unwanted now.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 08:35:21 GMTFrom the above [tweaks], the most important tweak needed is the mindset of the Review Committee. If they are still thinking in the same wavelength as those who conceived the current package, the statement of a new slate is a myth. They need to free their mindset from the flawed reasoning of the past (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 08:25:42 GMTMy Worrieshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 07:52:03 GMTNational Development Minister Khaw on Thursday sounded the alert on the spike in property prices in his latest blog posting. He said things can go very wrong suddenly and gave 3 reasons .. (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 07:50:29 GMT[Safeguarding our reserves - investment policy] Dear Mr Tan: I applaud you for stepping forward to offer your candidacy in the upcoming Presidential Election. I am an investment manager and wealth manager working for a global financial institution..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 04:46:58 GMTPAP Sitoh Yih Pin has 12 directorships in public and private companies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 04:28:44 GMT'White' is out these days. Which is why pro-establishment figures won't stand a chance in the coming Presidential Election. In other words, the Presidential hopefuls must strike a balance between lame dog S.R Nathan and mad dog Chee Soon Juan (version 1.0). Why do I say this? Two facts to chew on .. (Terence Lee, NewNation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 04:17:11 GMT[Tan Kin Lian President's Personal Council: 3 Reasons I'm Against It...] If he's elected as the President, Mr Tan Kin Lian plans to set up the President's personal council. I am totally against the idea.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 04:05:36 GMTDrs Leong Yan Hoi, Tan Lip Hong and Toh Beng Chye are medical doctors. They are also members of SDP's Healthcare Advisory Panel (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 03:53:56 GMTThe Chief Executive of S'pore's state investor Temasek Holdings , Ho Ching, is likely to step down in August, Financial Times reported Thursday citing sources familiar with the matter (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 03:50:46 GMTThe relevant section of the Constitution we should refer to for this discussion is ..... Reading through it several times, I see nothing in there which says that the Freedom of Speech for the President is curtailed in any way. There is in fact a hefty section protecting the President from being sued when he chooses to speak. [Thoughts of a Singapore Statistician]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 03:34:49 GMTLas Vegas Sands aims to sell shopping mall at S'pore casino in 2-3 yrs (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 02:11:47 GMTAt fault is the official dictum "fare rises keep pace with what people can afford". In plain English, what commuters can afford to be ripped off. They actually say it in print, "it ensures operators can earn enough to improving service". PTC is responsible for using the formula to "regulate" fares. That's Gerard Ee, the same fellow reviewing salaries of Ministers to ensure the end result is dignified for the beneficiaries (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 02:08:50 GMT[Making Public Transportation Inclusive And Accessible] More can also be done for the convenience and comfort of the elderly or disabled passengers (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 02:06:49 GMTPAP contingent at NDPhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 02:05:18 GMTThe way Ministry of National Development worked and how it treated the people is about the best example of what it was like then. Now they are trying to listen to the people, wanting to know how to serve the people better. At least it is a big step forward, a departure from the high and mighty and arrogant style of the past (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 01:58:56 GMTMany of you have asked me what i will do when i am President, I will do so when I get my COE and officially become a candidate - the office of the presidency must be treated with dignity and pride, and the run up as well. I will consider the ideas and suggestions many have given me seriously. Thank you for your understanding and patience.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 01:42:49 GMTDebate on the Elected Presidency from way back in the 1990s ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 01:30:03 GMTThe protagonists are gradually emerging, but observers expect the Presidential Election showdown to still be months away, possibly sometime in the last two weeks of August.....Constitutional expert Thio Li-ann noted that the period between National Day on Aug 9 and the National Day Rally - usually held one to two weeks later - is unlikely to be chosen because the focus would be on the Rally, traditionally a high point in the political calendar. [TODAY]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 01:16:47 GMT[Will a President who speaks up cause a Singapore Constitutional Crisis?] The relevant section of the Constitution we should refer to for this discussion is found here .. Reading through it several times, I see nothing in there which says Freedom of Speech for the President is curtailed in any way.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 01:15:06 GMTDespite having first come into public prominence as the champion of small investors during the 2008 Lehman Minibond saga - drawing crowds at Speakers' Corner - presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian (picture) will be relying less on his oratorical skills than the power of social media in his bid to become Singapore's next Elected President. [TODAY]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 01:01:55 GMT2 interesting developments today with Nathan saying he has not decided if he should run another term and Tony Tan surfacing as a potential PAP sponsored candidate. This brings me to ponder over the selection process of a PAP-sponsored candidate (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 00:57:06 GMTPresident SR Nathan has revealed he has not made any decision on whether he will be seeking a 3rd term in the coming presidential contest. "I have got another one and a half months to decide .. I have to think of my age. People say, 'This old man, why the hell is he still there, wanting to do it?'" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 00:49:38 GMTPlease, anyone but Nathan.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 00:39:41 GMTReading President Nathan's comments about the realities of the Elected Presidency confirms what many have already suspected. So can you blame people for the ridicule and disgust they have for an excessively overpaid President [4 million a year or $16,000 A DAY]? Asked about the EP candidates, a retiree said curtly, "All PAP men" (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 00:32:48 GMTHaving studied the powers of the President, Mr Tan believes the initiatives he would like to introduce if elected are within the Constitution.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 00:25:08 GMTI am getting very concerned those who call on George Yeo to stand for election to the post of president, and most of those who support Dr Tan Chin Bok's and Tan Kin Lian's plans to stand the presidential election, do not know the role of the president. As Siew Kum Hong blogged many moons ago, it is very circumscribed (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 00:18:13 GMT[Georgie Boy - what's the rush?] No doubt, if you contest for President in August as I think you will, it will be good for PAP. But will it be good for S'pore? More importantly, will it be good for you?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 09 Jun 2011 00:05:54 GMTFLASHBACK: Tan Cheng Bock, George Yeo clash over Immigration.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:59:00 GMTAlthough he did not say he might be running for President, he has refused to rule it out either. What should S'poreans make of his possible candidacy? To answer this question, it might be helpful to shed some light on his record on one specific aspect.. (Furry Brown Dog)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:45:09 GMT"The only reason why they would want to call the election earlier would be if they want to summon Parliament earlier, and for it to be presided over by a new President." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:39:20 GMT'Building social capital more than just a number game' (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:34:29 GMTAs a small gesture of appreciation, TOC is organising, with the support of SPP, a dinner event to honor and thank Mr Chiam See Tong for his years of contribution to S'pore and S'poreans (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:29:38 GMTThe Community Service Subcommittee, facilitated by Dr Vincent Wijeysingha and Ms Chee Siok Chin, attracted the most number of participants at the 'Road to 2016' workshop. The number was so large that a separate room had to be arranged for them to meet (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:25:44 GMTNicole Seah: Social media has potential to promote political discourse.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:15:36 GMTGerard Ee's 8-member committee has been online to seek feedback, citing social media sites and political websites such as Temasek Review as places where they have looked at. "We would appreciate if contributors not flame, even though we fully understand need to vent. We want people to give objective feedback, rather than frivolous comments." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:13:25 GMTLarge photos (BostonGlobe)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 23:05:47 GMTIn Part 3 of a series of articles on the minimum wage, Gordon Lee explores the limitations of Workfare. In this last part of this series, he look at the ways in which a minimum wage is best implemented (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:53:55 GMTThe Govt has again failed to recognise our plight amid high prices in HDB resale market .. we are not permitted to buy direct from HDB in pro-family S'pore. The standard HDB bureaucratic reply is that .. Are we to wait till our advanced years to be categorised as 'single, aged, poor' before we make it to top of the list for housing help? (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:50:54 GMT[Tackle excessive speculation] The notion that flats are affordable simply because buyers can afford to pay mortgage using just CPF money is a myth. The CPF was originally meant as savings for retirement funding. Now, if CPF savings are used towards paying off heavy mortgages, where then is the money needed for survival during retirement? (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:42:59 GMT15 Q & As - Uniquely Singapore? (Leong Sze Hian - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:38:29 GMT[Casinos' success: Don't pop the champagne just yet] We should remind ourselves there is no free lunch [S'pore 'will likely overtake Las Vegas']. Everything comes at a price. The Govt should reveal the number of S'poreans and PRs who visited the casinos over the last 12 months.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:34:14 GMT[Check cooking utensils at foodcourts] I have seen hawkers using plastic pails meant for holding tap water to hold boiling hot soup. There are some who are using plastic scoops, meant for bathing, to scoop hot soups or food from the cooking pots and woks. Also, are the plastic containers used to hold hot take-away drinks and food safe to use?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:29:40 GMTRE-ORGANISATION OF WORKERS' PARTY CEChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:09:54 GMTWORKERS' PARTY RESHUFFLES ITS LEADERSHIPhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:07:56 GMTSylvia Lim: "WP is entering an exciting phase in its organisational development. GE 2011 has been a critical milestone for WP. Including Show Mao, Pritam and Jenn Jong into the core leadership team is a logical step for the Party to move forward cohesively." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 22:04:38 GMTA Central Park for S'pore as a solution to floods? (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 21:59:32 GMTResorts World Sentosa should develop itself as the region's hub for dolphin research and rescue (Toh Tai Chong, Voices - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 21:56:41 GMTFrom art to fashion, a younger generation is working at the grassroots to create an authentic identity for the nation (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 21:53:12 GMTThe cause of a food poisoning outbreak in 10 pre-schools last month has been traced to a bacteria. It was found in the seafood marinara pasta supplied by Mum's Kitchen, which was the caterer for 8 Pat's Schoolhouse's pre-schools, Children's Place in Kay Siang Road, and Learning Visions in Raffles Place (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 21:50:34 GMTChangi General Hospital has become the 1st to step out of the SingHealth healthcare cluster, to take the lead in providing a single network of medical care for residents in the East. And this "will make the healthcare system more convenient and hassle-free for patients" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 21:45:16 GMTThe Govt could take the lead in adding greater capacity to the transport system, rather than leaving it solely to the operators (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 21:41:49 GMT[Freedom of Information Act yet to come down with the rain] After spending money installing numerous sensors in canals and large drains during the last few years, we've now discovered they were "overwhelmed" by last Sunday's [5 June 2011] storm. How do we monitor the quality of our govt unless citizens have access to information?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 16:53:27 GMT[PM Cameron on UK's immigration woes...] This is a well balanced speech on UK's immigration problems. Cameron acknowledges the contributions of immigrants to UK but feels that it has strained its infrastructure and social fabric of the country. This is a very big issue in UK right now and the Cameron govt has to answer to angry citizens.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 16:46:05 GMTIrony - the best loser of the ruling party in the recent General Election now seems to have the best chance to be the next head of state of Singapore. The post-Aljunied story of George Yeo Yong-Boon or Georgie, the variant of George one can use to address him, is fast turning out to be a narrative of motives, impressions, reservations and aspirations. [Think Happiness]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 09:44:24 GMTTHE Government of Singapore Investment Corp (GIC) has announced the most wide-ranging changes to its senior leadership since 2007, aimed at achieving greater 'investment firepower'. The move came as GIC disclosed it had recovered all the losses suffered in the global financial crisis, while its portfolio had seen good returns in the past year. [ST Online]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 08:07:59 GMTHaving studied the powers of the President, presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian believes the initiatives he would like to introduce if elected are within the Constitution.....[Yahoo News - FTP]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 08:05:10 GMTHere is my statement on my decision to contest the Presidential Election. It also sets out the issues to be addressed during and after the election. [ Tan Kin Lian's Blog]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 07:51:53 GMTHi Kin Lian, I read your post on publishing the government financial reserves at book and market value. This might not be a prudent move as could possibly allow other govts to eye "financial aid" from SG. How can you protect the reserves when you have to face the political pressures of external govts who require "financial aid"? ..... [Tan Kin Lian's Blog]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 07:49:59 GMTPresident Nathan said that he has been doing his work in his own quite way and within the limits of his powers in the Constitution. I agree with that statement. I have also studied the powers of the president within the constitution in framing my ideas. So far, nobody has told me that my suggestions are out of the scope of the President's powers. [Tan Kin Lian's Blog]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 07:48:16 GMTPresidential hopeful Ooi Boon Ewe returned to the Elections Department on Tuesday to call for an appeal of funds for the S$48,000 Presidential Election deposit. Ooi had previously revealed that his two hurdles for the Presidential Election are the fulfilment of the deposit and the eligibility clause. [Yahoo News FTP]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 05:35:26 GMTSubject to the deliberations of the Presidential Elections Committee - which will decide on the eligibility of the candidates - Singapore will witness its first contested election for the head of state in almost two decades. Former NTUC Income chief Tan Kin Lian confirmed yesterday he will throw his hat into the ring - after a week of discussions with his family. [TODAY]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 05:22:42 GMTPresident SR Nathan said yesterday he has not decided if he will be seeking a third term in the coming presidential election, due by Aug 31. But in a possible hint of the direction in which his decision might go, he said that one factor in his calculations is his age. Mr Nathan turns 87 next month. He said: 'I have got another 11/2 months to decide. I am at the moment preoccupied with my work. [ST Online]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 01:09:28 GMTTHE possibility has emerged that former deputy prime minister Tony Tan might be a candidate in the upcoming presidential election. [ST Online]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 08 Jun 2011 01:05:56 GMTDisturbed by judgment, says AWARE.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 23:09:28 GMTDon't weigh beauty on scales of justice (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 23:07:35 GMTI refer to ['SingPost worker jailed for credit card thefts']. In 2005, I had advocated for credit cards to be sent by registered mail ['Credit cards should be sent by registered mail'; Dec 2, 2005]. The authorities should not be forced into a situation where they have to deploy more manpower and resources to conduct such investigations when this crime can be easily prevented (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 23:05:22 GMTDoes it mean that at the end of each trip, commuters have to check the amount deducted? Why are commuters, like me, who are victims of overcharging made to undergo inconveniences - 2 trips to the ticketing office and having to complete a form - just to get a refund of a few cents? (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 23:00:25 GMT'Although I've been quiet, I've been doing work' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:54:31 GMT'A period of enormous change for next elected S'pore President'. Dr Tan made his comments in response to media queries as to whether he would be making a bid for the presidency in the coming election (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:49:36 GMT[Gambling : S'pore to overtake Las Vegas this year...] Regular readers of this blog know how strongly I oppose the casinos and the negative impact it has on our society. If George Yeo runs for president, you should not forget his role in bringing the casinos to S'pore - putting money above the values of our society.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:31:45 GMTHis CV on the Parliament website might have listed 64 "other appointments" but AMK GRC MP Yeo sees most of those roles as "affiliations" helping him to improve his understanding of the ground (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:29:49 GMTThe days when some backbenchers held numerous listed directorships seem to be over (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:24:35 GMTThe team will also work with human resource experts to "ensure there is rigour in the analysis". This would answer 1 of 2 questions: "What fair compensation would accord due recognition for contributions of our political office holders?" The other, "more subjective" question, is determining the amount of discount that would signify "value and ethos of political service" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:17:39 GMT... said a panel of speakers to about 250 people Tuesday. The panel, who was from 6 political parties, was speaking in their personal capacities at an Institute of Policy Studies forum titled "What Youth Want" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:10:38 GMT'Healing' among themes at forum that brings together PAP, Opposition representatives (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:03:21 GMTConstruction works near Bukit Timah condo postponed for a week (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 22:00:37 GMT[Green lungs to quell floods] Building boom is part of the problem; more sustainable development model is needed (Liew Kai Khiun, Voices - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 21:57:22 GMTI am writing to highlight a recent practice some banks have adopted while granting housing loans. Banks have massive bargaining power when it comes to setting the terms of a loan and, without some limit placed on that power, consumers are at risk of being exploited (Leow Zi Xiang, Voices - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 21:53:06 GMTThe presidents of 'GIC Asset Management', 'GIC Special Investments', 'GIC Real Estate' will step down and be appointed as chairmen of business groups. GIC said in the latest financial year, its portfolio had good returns with the continued recovery of global stock prices (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 21:46:08 GMTThe Cargo Branch of Alpa-S met yesterday. "[There's a] great sense of frustration, and morale is quite low because pilots feel they've been discriminated against in the SIA group. That's the main purpose of why the meeting was called .. to stop this discrimination, and have given them 90 days to solve this problem or at least to show they're willing to solve this problem," (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 21:37:29 GMTTourism Malaysia wants to give you more reasons to visit, with a variety of festivals and events on offer (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 21:28:46 GMT[Tan Cheng Bock, Tan Kin Lian or George Yeo for President?] Can't decide? Perhaps the 3 mock-ups I have done of their potential presidential portrait with their respective spouses can help you decide..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 16:18:55 GMTRegistration for our 1st Think Tank Session on 18 Jun [Saturday]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 15:44:26 GMTEvent report - "Post-Elections: Perspectives and An Analysis" forum on 15 May 2011 (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 15:41:40 GMTThe govt needs to change the way it consults people to ensure feedback is received early in the process of policy development. That is the takeaway for S'pore's major political parties .. Six representatives spoke at a forum, organised by think tank The Institute of Policy Studies, on the topic - "What Youths Want" (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 15:37:18 GMT[What Youths Want] Shin Leong's speech at INSTITUTE OF POLICY STUDIES forum on Tuesday, 7 June 2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 15:20:26 GMTThe subject of GPs doing aesthetics came up again recently when Dr Woffles Wu wrote a letter to ST Forum, arguing that liposuction should only be done by specialists. MOH replied today; while I have no opinion on whether GPs should be allowed to perform liposuction, the final paragraph of the letter disturbs me .. (SingaporeMD)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 15:14:18 GMTIt is very likely that Georgie's presidency will not be very different from past Presidents. I echo "what at least one observer has shared about Georgie's legacy". An enticing yet hardly surprising prospect - oh boy, it's Georgie for President!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 15:07:55 GMTOur President has only very limited executive powers, really. On everything else, he has to act on the advice of the Cabinet. Hence, the main quality one should look for in our President is impartiality. The President should thus .. Now that I've explained what this role entails, who do you think fits the bill? (Political Writings)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 14:59:13 GMT[Tan Kin Lian leads the way with Transparency and Political Salary Reform] Mr Tan's 2 initiatives show just how serious a candidate he is.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 14:23:35 GMTPresident Nathan says he has not decided, adding that age is a factor. Mr Tan Kin Lian, one of 3 potential candidates, has outlined proposals to clarify role of the Presidency. Mr Nathan declined to comment, saying it is not fair to do so. But he said one has to remember the scope of Elected President is defined by the Constitution, and its function is very different from that of an executive arm of govt (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 14:16:52 GMTMr Tan Kin Lian, the former chairman of NTUC Income, has announced on a blog post today that he will be contesting the upcoming presidential election, which must be held by August this year. On his blog, Mr Tan wrote that he will contest if given the certificate of eligibility, and promised a full statement by today or tomorrow. [TODAY]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 09:34:47 GMTREPRESENTATIVES of former Foreign Minister George Yeo have on Monday collected forms for a certificate of eligibility for him to contest the Presidential Elections. At about 1pm, 15 representatives aged between 16 and 41 were seen at the Elections Department. One of them, Mr Lien We King, 36, said that he had received a phone call from Mr Yeo on Sunday asking him to help collect the forms on his behalf. [ST Online]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 08:45:26 GMTFORMER NTUC Income Chief Tan Kin Lian has confirmed on Tuesday that he will be contesting the upcoming Presidential Election. [ST Online]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 08:43:18 GMTFormer NTUC Income chief's election promises include overseeing an annual report on S'pore's reserves, as well as donating a large chunk of his salary to charitable causes (Nigel Tan, Chief Editor, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 07:58:18 GMTTan Kin Lian vs Tan Cheng Bock (Blinkymummy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 07:45:28 GMTWith the PAP back in power, the Presidential Election is looking set to be a test case to see whether the people will blindly support the proxy candidate of PAP.....[My Singapore News]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 06:18:32 GMTDuring GE 2011, someone wanted to know how to intentionally cast a spoilt vote. The lady apparently found the responsibility too onerous, and belonging to a different constituency, she was not even affected by the "emotional dilemma" at Aljunied. The election for a new president is a different ball game. [Singapore Notes]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 06:15:31 GMTCV of Tan Kin Lian up to 2007http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 06:09:27 GMTMany people have asked me, "Mr. Tan, if you were the Elected President, what would you do to follow the steps taken by President Ong Teng Cheong to safeguard our reserves"? [ Tan Kin Lian's Blog ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 06:06:29 GMTFormer NTUC Income chief Tan Kin Lian has thrown his name into the hat for the post of President of Singapore. In a short message on his blog on Tuesday, Tan said, "I have now decided to contest the Presidential Election (if I am given the Certificate of Eligibility)." [Yahoo - FTP]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 06:01:30 GMTThe grouses in the media are that we are mixing this elite core of highly qualified professionals with foreign imports of doubtful qualities. And the fear of fake degrees is even more frightening. Are we in a hurry for numbers, quick profit and ended up compromising the quality of our healthcare? I hope not. Or has the rot already started? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 05:34:59 GMT[The different lives of Expats and Singaporean Workers] Reader's Comment: Thank you for writing this. Your words mean a lot to someone who thinks these thoughts but doesn't have the courage to speak up! Please keep up the good work!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 05:18:45 GMTIn Part 2, Gordon Lee examines the relationship between minimum wage and costs of production, inflation, productivity and competitiveness. In Part 3, he explores the limitations of Workfare. In the next and final part, we will investigate the practical ways of implementing a national minimum wage in order to capitalise on the benefits of minimum wage, and mitigate any possible negative effects (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 05:16:56 GMT[Balahrishnan keeps PAP tradition alive, blames the weather] In trying to resolve this question, PAP seems too eager to place the blame somewehere else. It is adamant in sticking to its tactic of admitting nothing and denying everything. How quickly it forgets the lessons from GE2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 07 Jun 2011 05:09:31 GMT[Let there be transparency in 'blacklisting' of workers] In order to facilitate informed decision-making for both employers and workers, the ministry should work towards greater transparency in its blacklisting framework and ensure all parties have equal access to info as well as opportunity to address complaints made against them before being "marked"(Voices - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 23:03:30 GMT[Ministry reviewing effectiveness of entry test for maids] MOM will ensure test remains relevant, while taking into consideration feedback received (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 22:55:29 GMTNow that floodwaters have receded, the spotlight is on the kind of solutions needed. While there are no shortage of ideas, the issue is one of cost. In addition, the solutions must go beyond short-term measures, said experts (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 22:42:54 GMT[Drainage system under urbanisation stress?] The traditional conveyance approach of channelling stormwater into large, concrete- lined canals has shown its limitations in times of intense, heavy rainfall. It is time we considered alternative, storage-based approaches .. I would like to suggest the following: (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 22:39:25 GMT[Is it wise for relatively new properties to be encouraged to go en bloc?] Perhaps, it is time to re-examine the merits to place a cap on the age of properties that can be put up for en bloc sales (Voices - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 22:32:30 GMTMeeting today between MP, LTA and Maplewoods residents to work out solutions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 22:25:27 GMTWhenever there is a public holiday .. motorists can expect a traffic jam. The worst part is, we have to pay a toll on both sides for the privilege of getting stuck in traffic. The citizens of S'pore and M'sia deserve better (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 22:21:36 GMT"Investors' favorite market is still SGX, followed by U.S. markets but the trend - especially among the younger and even some affluent customers - is that they've started to buy and sell shares, ETFs online, on their own." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 22:14:47 GMT[Work Permit Holders living in Dakota Crescent SIT rental flats] In my walkabouts there, I found a surprising number of these rental flats being let out to foreigners at commercial rates of over $1,500 per month [maximum 6-8 persons to a 2-room flat].http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 19:38:33 GMTThe final nail in the coffin for those of you who simply "can't live without BBM" (engadget)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 19:24:51 GMTIs this the end for record collections? Steve Jobs unveils Apple iCloud streaming service that lets users access their iTunes music from anywhere over the internet (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 19:17:19 GMTOrchard Road Business Association: We are disappointed with PUB [lots of Readers' Responses]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 19:02:41 GMT[HDB rental flats for S'poreans only] With regard to the Minister's remarks "we need to ramp up the building of rental flats as quickly as we can .. ", I would like to suggest that the policy of allowing private operators, like EM Services, which is a joint-venture between HDB and a private listed company, to rent out HDB flats to non-S'poreans for profit, be reviewed (Leong Sze Hian, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 18:57:42 GMTRepublicans were left reeling by the publication of a new book written by a former political press officer who has lifted the lid on the hedonistic conservative circles at the end of the Bush era. In the book 'The Life of the Party', Lisa Baron recounts a lifestyle of casual sex and 'a seemingly endless supply of narcotics.' (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 18:43:04 GMT[1994 - 2011: A Chronology of Authoritarian Rule in S'pore] This chronology was first compiled by Martyn in 2006, and updated in March 2011 as a public document published under 'Singaporeans For Democracy'. You are encouraged to disseminate. (Updated : June 2011)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 18:37:20 GMT[From Chee Soon Juan to Speakers' Corner to Pink Dot] It was Dr Chee Soon Juan's decision to risk imprisonment by embarking on a long-drawn campaign of civil disobedience to bring the govt to bear for its refusal to honor its citizens' rights to free speech and assembly, which made events like Pink Dot legal.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 18:31:14 GMT[GE2011: Micro-polling results from one counting centre] It is not clear yet if there will be a contested presidential election this year, but that would be another opportunity to test out the feasibility of an independent non-partisan analysis of micro-level voting patterns in S'pore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 18:21:21 GMTMr Tan Kin Lian leading Minibonds investors in the recitation of the National Pledge at Speakers' Corner on 22 August 2009.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 18:11:11 GMTThis may be the odd occasion when we want to vote for the PAP candidate, whoever he or she is. After all, the post is just window dressing, right? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 17:25:24 GMTDiscover the entrepreneur in you [Part 2]: Starting with a blank slatehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 17:02:02 GMTI cringed when PM said sorry. I was amazed that Mintster Lui took bus and MRT .. I was shocked that Vivian was at the flood drowning site and Tanglin Mall .. Are these for real? Or is this another way to "fix and buy"? Does 40% votes that went against PAP [Proud Arrogant Party] wake up their bloody ideas and not take us for granted? I hope so (feedmetothefish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 15:57:51 GMTGeorge Yeo's reps pick up forms for presidential bid (06 Jun 2011) - You Tubehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 15:07:44 GMTThe best part about the new found awareness is the fact that not only did we the people get to vote for our government, we are expected to vote for our President in an election that should take place by the end of August of 2011. [Desparatebeep]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 14:26:25 GMT["Life is Hard" by Moh Hon Meng] Hi all, I'm a dotcom entrepreneur. I co-founded Fundsupermart.com in 1999, which later became iFAST Corporation. When I wrote the notes "In defence of the PAP" during the elections, I expected to be flamed. To my surprise, I got cries for help instead.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 12:04:37 GMT[Hands up - those who prefer rigged presidential elections] My guess is most Malay S'poreans, and many non-Malays too, would think the next person to occupy the largely-ceremonial post of President should be Malay. The problem is under present rules, few of them can get past the nomination hurdle. So, to have any hope next President would be Malay, we're either going to have to rig the election, or free up the rules.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 11:40:49 GMTPAP's George Yeo flip-flops and sends reps to collect eligibility certificate for presidential bidhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 11:36:16 GMTThe Orchard Road Business Association said the incident Sunday felt like a repeat of the floods last June. "It's kind of like an anniversary for us. It happened last year on June 16, almost the same time. This has caused a big concern because... we suspect the problem's been transferred from downstream of Orchard Road to upstream, where Tanglin Mall and Forum are located. The flood alarm system is not working." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 09:56:55 GMT[Solving Daily Problems] In HDB estates, most are happy with their estates. But there are some common daily irritations. If we can solve these problems and remove the irritations, many residents will have a better quality of life. The question is how.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 08:13:24 GMTMalaysian Immigration Dept director-general Datuk Alias Ahmad urged travellers to be patient with the new security system .. "For some people, it takes only a minute. For others, it takes about 2 to 3 minutes." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 07:50:41 GMTFormer Foreign Minister George Yeo said running for President is a big decision which he hopes to make two weeks from now, after taking in views and advice from many people. He asked for patience and understanding. [CNA]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 05:40:55 GMTDoes PUB CEO think the people have memory that last less than 1 year?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 04:51:37 GMT[Keep the spin cycle on, and get ready to be hung out to dry... ] Today's edition of Straits Times .. This is refreshing. ST is often deployed for spin damage control every time the govt can't cover up mismanagement bad news. The rule appears to be: Cover up 1st. If not possible, then obfuscate, mislead and distract. And if that fails, underplay and de-emphasize. We now have a new 4th stage: pre-empt criticism, and be seen to be DOING SOMETHING.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 03:58:19 GMTThe outbreak of a new strain of E. coli clearly reveals that society has become increasingly vulnerable to bacteria and viruses that are resistant to antibiotics. Therefore, in efforts to curb the epidemic, policymakers and the WHO should step in to deal with it (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 03:20:37 GMTGeorge Yeo said running for President is a big decision which he hopes to make 2 weeks from now (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 02:47:15 GMTTraining and development a key aspect of SDP's plans for future.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 02:26:52 GMTPUB's $uper$cale $alaried CEO Khoo Teng Chye suggested several ways to alleviate future flooding in the Tanglin area, including building a pond in the Botanic Gardens, "But given the built-up situation and high cost of land, these are very expensive schemes." That must be music to the Minister's ears - if that's one thing Balakrishnan is good at, it's writing big checks (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 02:21:52 GMTPine Grove, I've been reminded by irate Laguna Park residents, is the most expensive en bloc propery up for sale, costing about S$1.7 bn. They were upset by my comments that they were greedy (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 01:49:50 GMTThe population is feeling the crunch everywhere .. Why must we increase the population further from the 5m today when living conditions are showing signs of stress and fatigue everywhere? Is slowing down the population growth a guarantee for economic downturn and decay? No better way out? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 01:32:08 GMTMISTAKE in PAP "think tank" critique on UBS ranking of the purchasing power of S'pore wageshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 06 Jun 2011 01:18:56 GMT[Lessons from happiness land] We can learn from Bhutan's example and adopt GNH instead of GDP - with some tweaking of our own - especially in policies that concern us the most, such as housing and public transport.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 22:19:39 GMT[Regulate maid agencies] The report on maid agencies doesn't come as a surprise. Collusion among maid agencies is just the tip of the iceberg of questionable practices. It is time MOM step in to regulate this industry.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 22:16:43 GMT[Can a closed account be reopened without consent?] CAN a bank reopen a customer's closed accounts and perform transactions without her knowledge?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 22:12:14 GMTAs the Govt plans to boost labour productivity growth, one economist has warned that S'pore's income gap may widen further if the Govt does not do more to help lower income workers (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 21:46:16 GMTIt looked like a scene straight from the movies. Water cascading down escalators, filling every nook and cranny, then pouring onto the floor below like a waterfall. By 10.30am yesterday, the basement and car parks of Tanglin Mall were in knee-deep water (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 21:30:40 GMT"The poor US data and worries that the Greek govt may need a lot more money than earlier expected are likely to weigh in on investor sentiment." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 21:23:58 GMT[As thick as ... millionaires in S'pore] Dear readers: I refer to 2 Jun 2011 Straits Times report of S'pore topping the world in the number of millionaire households. But before we celebrate, we need to understand that property price rise is a zero sum game (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 17:21:34 GMT['Slower growth means fewer job opportunities'] Dear Minister Khaw: I refer to 30 May 2011 Straits Times report of your comments at the Sembawang GRC Youth Executive Committee's policy forum. You said the govt thought it was important to bring wages to people's pockets in order for the country to grow and catch up with other countries (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 17:14:25 GMT[Open-door policy vital to S'pore] Dear Straits Times: I refer to 1 Jun 2011 letter. Mr Kevin Kwek reminds S'poreans of the danger of a 'closed to foreigners' view and urges S'pore to remain attractive to foreign talent, and to offer incentives for foreigners to call S'pore home. But the issue has never been about S'poreans being 'closed to foreigners' (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 17:08:20 GMTGilbert Goh thanks TR readers for supporting 'Employ Singaporean first' event at Hong Lim Park.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 16:53:38 GMT[Post-Hong Lim Park Event's Mail From PMET Reader] Dear Gilbert: I applaud you for organizing the gathering Saturday. However, I personally feel the impact of such event is quite minimal because it does nothing to change the minds of our govt and the employers why they should hire S'poreans first.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 16:46:09 GMTShorter queue for HDB rental flats - Really? (Leong Sze Hian, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 16:16:41 GMT[Change, really?] Those in power in S'pore have to be more mature in how it deals with supposed criticism. Being able to deal with questions such as those raised by Shadrake would be a start (G Hui, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 16:07:00 GMTA Growing Grassroots Movement in Houganghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 15:51:29 GMTTanglin Mall was the worst hit by floods caused by heavy rainfall Sunday morning. PUB said the extent of the flood at Tanglin Mall was something it had not seen in the last 25 years (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 12:33:31 GMTDr Balakrishnan: "Personally, I think our weather has changed. I'm actually psychologically prepared for it to get worse. You're reading with nature and you're dealing with the weather; you have to be prepared there is a limit to human engineering and what we can deliver. But having said that, let us make sure we have done the best we can and within those limits, then cope with whatever else nature throws at us." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 12:23:01 GMT[An Interview with Tan Kin Lian] Victims of minibonds and high notes investments once again gather at Hong Lim Park. TOC interviews Mr Tan Kin Lian for his message to the people and to our leaders.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 11:35:26 GMT[Red Alert : Tan Kin Lian for President !!!] Given his behavior in the minibonds saga, I'm afraid Tan Kin Lian will be worse than Ong Teng Cheong. He looks like one person who will treat the issues of justice, accountability and transparency very seriously.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 10:59:03 GMTThe point here is not about who gives feedback, or the channels available .. not even about how feedback is "interpreted". It is ultimately about whether ministers accept that criticisms are important, and whether they are willing to see and acknowledge that one cannot be right all the time (Andrew Loh, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 05:22:33 GMT'Floods worse this time around'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 05:14:10 GMT[S'pore hit by flash floods in several areas] According to a netizen Luan Ee who uploaded a photo to TR Facebook, there is massive flooding along Eng Neo Ave heading towards the PIE exit with traffic standing still ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 04:47:14 GMTCrispina Robert is a former journalist and editor of a parenting magazine, mother of two boys, aged 12 and 8 (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 04:19:03 GMTIf you have videos or pictures to share with us, do email them to .. You can also submit them online at .. (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 04:00:45 GMTIt is good if everyone can make more money. The trick is making more money from who, and for who. Our govt has made plenty of money and a huge reserve. If wealth and benefits of the country are well filtered down and shared by the people [not $10,000,000 for you, $1,000 for me] there will be less anger and more pride and commitment to the country and govt (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 03:31:37 GMT[The Presidential Election...] I hope Tan Kin Lian runs. but I will respect him as much if he decides not to. It is a big personal decision because the post comes with a complete change in life, decorum and total loss of privacy. Also, Tan Kin Lian has shown he can contribute when the need arises without being president, and the position comes with ceremonial duties that will take up a lot of time.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 01:45:28 GMTThe 1st strawman to fall in our political system is the GRC. Just like the impregnable mothership of the movie Independence Day, the weakness of the GRC is fully exposed and can be brought down. We are now looking at another strawman bending with the wind, the elected Presidency. Why is such an honourable office finding so few takers? Who is in a position to deprive all the honest and respectable citizens from running for the highest office in the country? A higher being? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 01:41:21 GMT[Service to the country] Dear Kin Lian: To be an EP is a service to the country. You are not that old? You see Dr Tan already 71 yo and he is so keen to run .. K Wonghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 00:44:03 GMT[In education, school not the only place to start] Heng Swee Kiat, the new Education Minister, should look outside his box and ask thinkers not connected with education what S'pore society is like and what it should strive to be. He might get surprising answers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 00:28:54 GMTFor 5 weeks before he entered NS, this 19-year-old travelled across Indochina and Thailand helping underprivileged kids (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 05 Jun 2011 00:13:19 GMTIt seems to me the PAP, which has ruled Singapore without a break since 1959, has just experienced a nightmare of the worst kind with its massive defeat in Aljunied GRC. The GRC monster, which the PAP created to maintain its iron grip on power, is poised to consume its creator with more GRCs predicted to be captured by the opposition in the next General Election in 2016. And now another monster, again of the PAP's creation, is set to backfire on them as Singaporeans vote for the Elected President, a President that the PAP has always endorsed and got elected. [SpotlightOnSingapore]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 12:46:35 GMTMr Sitoh should clarify, if he does not want to run the risk of appearing to be just another powerless PAP MP who has little discretion in running his own ward, having to toe the official party line even when it comes to deciding which contractor to appoint (TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 07:54:40 GMTWhy Tan Kin Lian MUST run for Presidenthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 05:32:38 GMT[More mature estates?] I refer to the article, "Khaw's advice: Apply for flats in new towns; chances are better" (Leong Sze Hian, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 05:06:01 GMTInderjit Singh thinks it's "awkward" for PAP members to have to choose between two "government-endorsed" ex-PAP candidates for President. He doesn't know awkward! Here's a few more things that are even more "awkward". [Political Writings]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:48:49 GMTFirst, like he said, he is not "temperamentally suited for such a job", which carries one responsibility that I think no one should be asked to do ... [FOOD fuels me to talk.]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:47:07 GMTOne of the surprises in the just concluded General Elections 2011 (GE 2011) was the defeat of former Foreign Affairs Minister George Yeo. During the hustling, it was reported that if he was defeated, Mr Yeo would be a candidate for the Presidential Election. This was vehemently denied by Mr Yeo...[Musings From the Lion City]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:44:20 GMTEnjoy this cartoon.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:41:36 GMTPE - Enjoy this cartoon.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:35:12 GMTA journalist asked why I agreed to speak at the general election rallies for the NSP and the SDP and not for the WP and PAP. The answer is simple ..... [Tan Kin Lian's Blog]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:29:46 GMTI like the principles (of fairness and cost control) you adopted when you were the CEO of NTUC Income. As a result, many policy holders (myself included) have benefited. As a President, a lot more S'poreans would be able to benefit from your work.....[TY]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:18:45 GMTFor the sake of millions of Singaporeans, come out and show them that there are good, moral Singaporeans around. I'll support you in whatever way I can.....[Tommy Wong]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:16:36 GMTThank you for promoting the values of honesty, fairness, courage, positive attitude and public service and Improve the transparency of the reserves.....[Michelle Ang & Friends]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:14:00 GMTRead this observation by Dharmendra. They describe my character, values and shortfalls quite fairly - although Dharmendra puts them in a positive light as a friend. [Tan Kin Lian's Blog]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 04:08:56 GMTI read with interest an article on Yahoo! S'pore entitled: "Restaurant staff's clapping was uncalled for: Joanne Peh". Amongst other things, the article mentioned that the Tanglin Mall outlet of Nando's wanted to charge the actress $3.90 for a cup of hot water (G Hui, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 03:03:53 GMTIn a country that can provide hundreds of thousands of good paying jobs to foreigners, it is troubling to see a section of its own citizens being marginalised, living in fear of being unemployed. Many are trying to make their presence felt at Hong Lim Park, the Speakers Corner for free speech .. Today, 4 June, at 5 pm (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 01:06:32 GMTMedia monopoly and draconian laws continue in S'pore, and carrying on in this way could mean an eventual demise of the print newspaper industry (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 04 Jun 2011 00:04:13 GMTSPP's Benjamin Pwee says recent termination of Potong Pasir Town Council staff is "a matter of SPP and PAP working together, not one between employer and employee" .. responding to latest comments by Sitoh Yih Pin, saying he was "very disappointed that some parties chose to politicise" the leadership transition at PPTC (Jeanette Tan, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 23:33:46 GMTAs a resident, I am extremely puzzled by SPP's demands to Mr Sitoh Yih Pin. To me, this seems a bit too demanding and borders on interference. I would think Mr Sitoh is sympathetic and honourable, and we should all leave it to the new management agent to do their work without undue pressure (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 23:22:19 GMTBeing a grassroots volunteer myself, I could not help but feel that debating whether grassroots activists are telling MPs the truth is just barking up the wrong tree. Unfortunately, grassroots activists have to face the reality of often being misunderstood, suspected of, and sometimes even ridiculed for serving only the ruling party, rather than the people (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 23:09:13 GMTMPs using social networking site to keep residents updated, and as sounding board for ideas (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 23:01:49 GMTMr Khaw Boon Wan has recognised the needs of young couples, divorcees with children, and the poor as the groups needing help in getting on the property ladder. However, I urge Mr Khaw not to leave out the growing group of single S'poreans who aspire to move out of their family home and have a place of their own (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:57:50 GMTWhile BTO is right approach as it reflects real demand, replacing queue system with current balloting system is not. We have cases where people are unsuccessful at the ballot even after many tries, while those who are successful reject their offers because they do not get the unit they fancy (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:52:09 GMTOnly way is to curb car ownership (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:41:03 GMTEarly exit rule, heavy vehicle lane and free COEs for two-wheelers (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:37:34 GMTI refer to the proposed new-generation satellite ERP system to be introduced in the future (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:34:08 GMTRemember when we got rid of pasar malams and lost their old-world charm when we replaced them with today's "fake" heartland night markets? Once we ruin the Geylang ambience, we will lose it forever and S'pore will have one less attraction (Letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:28:33 GMTLetter from Ajit Kumar .. Letter from Tan Saw Bin (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:22:46 GMTInvesting is tricky enough in normal times but periods of heightened uncertainty surrounding inflation outcomes make it even tougher (Steve Brice is chief investment strategist, group wealth management, at Standard Chartered Bank - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:14:58 GMTThe people who are benefiting from arbitraging and hedging are in favor of the SGX changes. "Those who are feeling concerned are those who feel there's a loss of contra-trading opportunities, which may translate to lower trading volume in that particular segment (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 22:10:18 GMTThe GRC monster, which PAP created to maintain its iron grip on power, is poised to consume its creator in GE 2016. And now another monster, again of PAP's creation, is set to backfire on them as S'poreans vote for the Elected President, a President that PAP has always endorsed and got elected (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 21:54:23 GMTHe is considering contesting because of calls from friends who have told him he can learn on the job, and more than 100 people have emailed him over the past months asking him to stand. They felt that S'poreans should have the chance to vote, and that he may represent that chance (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 21:42:00 GMT"Tan Kin Lian for President" represents the cry of numerous S'poreans wanting to exercise their power to vote for their next President. "Tan Kin Lian for President" is also a prayer for a President perceived as independent. Whether or not he is elected, at the very least, he owes this to the many supporters calling for him to stand up and be counted.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 16:38:42 GMTImprove the transparency of the reserves, and promote the values of honesty, fairness, courage, positive attitude and public service. These are some of the key messages the former NTUC Income chief would campaign on if he runs for President .. (Alicia Wong, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 16:22:06 GMT[Tan Kin Lian for Singapore President?] If he were to run, then who will the PAP govt put up as a candidate? Looks like the excitement won't end after 7 Mayhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 16:11:17 GMT[Clearing the air on 'awkward' comment] I wish to highlight to you an article carried by your publication on May 28, "PAP MPs surprised Dr Tan might run for President" (includes response from the Editor of TODAY - June 2)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 16:06:34 GMTFormer U.S. Democratic presidential hopeful John Edwards was indicted Friday for using illegal campaign contributions to cover up an extramarital affair, a fall from grace for a man who was once expected to go far in American politics (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 15:50:07 GMT[Foreigners' job history to be made available] We thank Mr Matthew Chua and Mr Ebenezer Jeyara for their feedback and suggestions to provide employers info on the employment history of foreign workers. Plans are underway .. as we recognise it would help them make better informed decisions (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 15:15:51 GMTIf S'pore is to remain attractive to FT, we must offer sufficient incentives for foreigners to call S'pore 'home'. If they are not part of the economy to help drive growth, how will we drive overall prosperity? We live in a highly competitive world. It is dangerous to have a 'closed to foreigner' view (Kevin Kwek - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 15:02:52 GMTIn carrying out PM's promise to rethink and reshape policies, the guiding philosophy should be "a Singapore for Singaporeans first". While we want to be inclusive, it cannot be at the expense of our own people .. in the jobs market (Susan Thomas - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 14:54:32 GMTI feel compelled to respond to Ms Susan Thomas' letter ['Tune in to aspirations of population'] In many instances, it may just be a business decision to put the most appropriate person on the job. Yes, our educational standards are high. However, if we want to have the best people in our economy, we cannot overly discriminate against foreign entry into the workforce and populace (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 14:50:37 GMTColin Tan is head, research & consultancy at Chesterton Suntec International (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 14:42:07 GMT[The more the merrier?] I refer to articles "New flats for Tampines, Kallang, Whampoa" and "More new flats to come up in mature estates" .. Perhaps what S'poreans want now is not more mere rhetoric, but policy changes that will lead to real desirable outcomes for the people (Leong Sze Hian - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 14:36:00 GMTNeighborhood gossip guilds, mahjong kakis, kopitiam beer buddies, and soccer fan clubs. These are residents' groups that the GO! [Ground Operations] Sub-Committee are going to tap into to beef up SDP's grassroots campaign. Attended by 20 participants, the GO! team's blueprint will revolve around a cell system that will include working with groups mentioned above.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 12:42:43 GMT[Merdeka Center poll highlights differences among GE2011 voter segments] A poll conducted by Merdeka Center carefully segmented respondents by gender, age, income and ethnic bands. The results are eye-opening.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 11:55:42 GMT[Positive response from S'poreans to protest tomorrow at Hong Lim Park] According to Mr Gilbert Goh, he has received many replies from employed S'poreans who will be attending the protest at 5pm for displaced PMETs (Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians) affected by PAP govt's re-employment policies.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 11:39:35 GMT"PM Lee open-minded and sincere about change" (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 09:44:15 GMTEven before the contest has begun, the presidential race has seen its first drop-out (Faris Mokhtar - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 08:36:47 GMTAs the build up for presidential election goes , Mr Tan Cheng Bock has been steadily posturing himself as an credible candidate that have a mind of his own and is not part of the People Action Party power structure. Despite the fact that he has been an Member of Parliament(MP) under the paper banner from 1980 to 2006 , a period spanning 26 years. Even claiming that he never followed his party. [Unbiased Electorate]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 05:45:23 GMTI find this incredible. How come I do not have much memory of the late Mr. Ong Teng Cheong other than his run-ins with the government; his fondness for orchids printed clothes; trying to provide as many ordinary citizens as possible the chance to enjoy golf and always the man with the friendly smile? I mean, I know a lot more about Yusof Ishak, Benjamin Henry Sheares, Devan Nair and Wee Kim Wee, especially Mr. Wee than Ong Teng Cheong. [Blogging for Myself]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 05:42:52 GMTIt would appear that something tragic has to take place, before the authorities in Singapore will act on safety measures. Try explaining that to the parents of Indonesian student William Lim, who fell into a open drain because a protective barrier was not installed. [Singapore Notes]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 03 Jun 2011 05:28:16 GMTTraditionally, the elected presidency of Singapore has been the preserve of the National Trades Union Congress. The candidate likely to muster the confidence of NTUC is supported by the People's Action Party leadership.....[Think Happiness]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 02 Jun 2011 14:58:19 GMTThe newly commissioned MP for Marine Parade GRC has just resigned her day job as a senior business consultant. Who cares for a pissy post at Ernst & Young when the yellow brick road leading to parliament house is paved with gold? Meanwhile another de-commissioned MP who seems to have difficulty securing alternative employment in the private sector is eyeing another soft option: the elected Presidency. Apparently the pay packaged is good, very good (SgNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 02 Jun 2011 12:37:37 GMTDeplorable of PAP supporters to smear Dr Joseph Ong using an unverified sex cliphttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 02 Jun 2011 11:16:23 GMTSPP has questioned how PAP Tanjong Pagar GRC team racked up $164,000 in expenses during recent GE campaign. This even though the team led by former MM LKY enjoyed a walkover in the GRC after a no-contest (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 02 Jun 2011 10:58:42 GMTPublic must speak up against commercialisation of healthcare (Dr Patrick Kee is a medical doctor specialising in palliative medicine. He is a director of TLC Home Medical Services Pte Ltd and is also a member of the SDP's Healthcare Advisory Panel)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 02 Jun 2011 10:54:41 GMT[Ticked off over Foreign Talent] My views on foreign talent is featured in the pap website which I quote below:http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 15:53:01 GMTNeither Rain nor Thunder can stop Dr Tan Cheng Bockhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 13:30:27 GMTPresidential hopeful Dr Tan Cheng Bock turned up at the Elections Department along Prinsep Street on Wednesday to collect and apply for a Certificate of Eligibility to contest as President (Faris Mokhtar - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 12:52:42 GMT"Many S'poreans from different walks of life, young and old, have asked me to reconsider my decision on the Presidency, some impassionately." (Alicia Wong - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 12:48:27 GMTWill the presidential election see a contest between 2 candidates who would be emerging from PAP? Perhaps the 1st sign that this will indeed happen is if Mr Yeo announces his resignation from PAP, as required by law. Mr Yeo's FB posting today - 1 June - coincides with the opening of applications [for Certificate of Eligibility] on the same day (Andrew Loh, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 12:20:54 GMT"Yesterday [31 May 2011] marked my last day with Ernst & Young. After long and careful deliberation, I decided to resign from the firm to focus on my responsibilities in MacPherson and Marine Parade GRC." (Alicia Wong, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 08:06:14 GMTThe controversy surrounding Tin Pei Ling is not just she is an inexperienced MP who does not have well-articulated viewpoints and who has behaved rather immaturely in public before, but also she has waltzed into Parliament riding on coattail of then SM [now, Emeritus] Goh Chok Tong, under the safety of the GRC system (Ng E-Jay, SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 08:04:38 GMTThe hero-worshipping Straits Times which tends to heap effusive praise on PAP once again runs true to form. An article by its China correspondent: "... the influential Nanfengchuang magazine ... S'pore has a democracy, and it is quite a superior form of democracy." (RogerPoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 07:59:15 GMTIt is a tough task rectifying the mess left behind by Mr Mah Bow Tan. However, at the moment, Mr Khaw appears to be pushing all the right buttons. The verdict, however, is based not on what Mr Khaw says presently but results 5 years from now. Lets hope Mr Khaw's initiatives bear good fruits (Andy Soon, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 07:51:06 GMTThe following is the unedited letter sent to the Straits Times by Mr Ng E-Jay (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 07:48:46 GMTThe Communications Sub-Committee workshop attracted more than 20 professionals. It will look into giving the newsletter a fresh look. A sub-team of writers will drive content while another sub-team will take charge of art direction. Video production will also be stepped up. The 3rd major project will be to further develop this website and increase its outreach (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 07:20:04 GMT[More But Not All] We will do our best to meet young couples' aspiration to be able to continue to live near their parents. But unfortunately, we will not be able to do so in every mature estate.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 07:10:03 GMT[Shadrake starts jail term...] We should be scrutinising our system and questioning it more than people of other countries .. unfortunately it is illegal to do so .. but we are expected to have full confidence in a system we cannot criticise.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 07:06:49 GMTIn the final instalment of our 3-part series, Nicole Seah says she will continue to stand up and continue speaking up for S'poreans' rights. She also tackles head-on a question about the controversial donations issue during the wide-ranging one-hour interview at Yahoo! office. Watch the video highlights here .. (Fann Sim, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 03:19:21 GMTMP Yeo Guat Kwang has replied to my blog posting via Temasek Review. I leave it up to you to decide if MP Yeo's reply is reasonable and fair. I do not think that it is. Neither do many other people. The following are 2 threads discussing MP Yeo's reply .. (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 03:09:51 GMTThe total election expenses for the Tanjong Pagar GRC PAP team is 164,000. Isn't Tanjong Pager GRC a walkover constituency? Why is there an expense for a constituency that didn't contest in the election? (dk.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 01:56:29 GMTCould victims of the decade of misguided public housing policies find recourse or reprieve in some way with new policies that will recognize their plight? How flexible and people centric will the new regime be to victims of flawed policies? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 01:25:59 GMT[Heralding A New Era: The Ruling Party's Political Rejuvenation?] PM Lee's letter establishes a positive foundation for PAP MPs following the recent GE. PM Lee's letter is far from exhaustive. Given the different dynamics in Parliament, PAP MPs should also be cognizant of their interactions and exchanges with the new Opposition MPs.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 00:58:20 GMTI hope S'poreans realise that HDB building spree means, in all probability, their properties will lose value in coming few yrs. Worse affected will be those who bot HDB flats, and lower end private condos in last few yrs. Every dog has its day and Mah will be popular soon. Khaw will be reviled (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 00:30:50 GMTS'poreans want growth that does not come at the expense of higher inflation, an overcrowded city, or the need to import an inordinate number of foreign workers ['Slower growth means fewer job opportunities'].http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 00:18:03 GMT[Changing Times] Policies, approaches and mindsets that ensured political stability and survival in 1971 will ensure stagnancy in 2021. The time of the dominance paradigm has come to an end. But the cycle of politics goes on. A new paradigm must come to replace it. This new paradigm is one of synergy and syzygy. Cooperation and union.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 00:10:21 GMTMP Yeo Guat Kwang replies to TRE's readershttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 00:08:41 GMTI refer to last Friday's Insight article. In fact, then DPM and MHA Minister Wong Kan Seng did apologise: 'This should never have happened. I am sorry that it has.' Was this not an apology plain and simple? The PAP Govt isn't perfect and is determined to improve. The 'tardiness', 'arrogance' and 'inefficiencies' of PAP the article hurled is unfair to 52 years of good work PAP has done for S'pore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 01 Jun 2011 00:04:47 GMT[Social media sans moral responsibility?] If the aim of "The Temasek Review" is to incite its readers to oppose the ruling party for the sake of it and to condone their unruly behaviour on its sites, I definitely do not wish to be a part of it .. I suggest the authorities step in to prevent unregulated online behaviour as a last resort. I do not wish to see the social media rocking the foundations of this nation, motivated by self-interests.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 23:54:16 GMTIf S'pore is to remain attractive to FT, we must offer sufficient incentives for foreigners to call S'pore 'home'. If they are not part of the economy to help drive growth, how will we drive overall prosperity? We live in a highly competitive world. It is dangerous to have a 'closed to foreigner' view (Kevin Kwek - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 23:48:45 GMTIn carrying out PM's promise to rethink and reshape policies, the guiding philosophy should be "a Singapore for Singaporeans first". While we want to be inclusive, it cannot be at the expense of our own people .. in the jobs market (Susan Thomas - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 23:42:53 GMTMinister Khaw Boon Wan said if Govt came across as if it were pursuing only economic growth, it was because it thought it was 'important to bring wages to people's pockets' ['Slower growth means fewer job opportunities']. We must accept only the kinds of economic growth that better the long-term economic productivity of S'poreans .. we want sustainable growth that betters our prospects (Tan Jiaqi - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 23:33:02 GMTDr Tan being who he is, HAS STOPPED ME FROM DELETING all the repeated postings on Marxist issues & Operation Spectrum. Most people would have deleted them or blocked the netizen who does that but NOT Dr Tan. He believes in an open book (Dr Tan Cheng Bock, FB)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 23:20:27 GMT[Conviction to boldly serve ... is what matters, not whether presidential candidate has past links to ruling party] I disagree with Mr Daniel Koh, who said in his letter "the electorate will not have any meaningful choice" if former PAP MP Tan Cheng Bock were to contest the presidency against "a candidate officially endorsed by PAP" (Letter from Jason Lee - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 23:15:19 GMTThere is a constitutional safeguard to ensure that only qualified people take part in the presidential race. Let us put our trust in the ability of the Presidential Elections Committee to do the selection job fairly and honestly (Tay Poh Seng - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 23:07:21 GMTStudent Joanna Lee had asked what would happen when changes in S'pore were met with resistance from some, such as the casinos in the IRs. In response, Mr Iswaran said the IRs - with social safeguards in place - offered clear economic incentives. "Some people have objections from a conscience point of view, other object because of the social consequences. The Govt ... had a very extensive process of consultation with the ground... before coming to its decision. It was not ... decided impetuously," (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 22:52:23 GMTMr Khaw's efforts to increase the supply of HDB rental flats must be coordinated with steps to tweak the immigration policy and curb overall housing prices (Soon Sze Meng - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 22:47:02 GMT[Apply new ceiling retrospectively] I refer to the report, "Strike balance when reviewing HDB income ceiling" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 22:42:10 GMTThe flurry of housing announcements in recent days has increased optimism among home-seekers, especially those who have been unsuccessful in their house-hunting efforts. Property analysts who spoke to TODAY noted, however, that additional supply and a review of the income ceiling for buyers of new BTO flats will be "no big shake-up" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 22:38:36 GMTForeigners seeking treatment at both private and public hospitals here because of poor facilities, failed treatment back home (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 22:33:46 GMTReduce ERP rates if there is road work (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 22:31:15 GMTiCloud, YouCloud, We All Scream For iCloud. But What Exactly Will It Be?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 22:03:11 GMTApple Inc CEO Steve Jobs leaps back into the spotlight next week to unveil a new cloud-based service called iCloud, offering computing and data over the Internet .. will also unveil a slew of software upgrades, including Lion, its Mac OS X computer operating system, and iOS 5, the next version of its mobile operating system (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 21:54:15 GMTAfter years of resistance, the lucrative practice of high frequency trading is growing across Asia, driven by market demand, stock exchange consolidation and greater acceptance among regulators (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 21:47:40 GMTIn his 1st blog post, Minister Gan Kim Yong said MOH would review and adjust its funding framework and various financial assistance schemes "to ensure they remain appropriate and effective in helping S'poreans cope with healthcare costs and yet prevent wastage or abuse." (Fann Sim, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 14:55:19 GMTEarlier this month, in the comments section of one of our posts, a reader disagreed with me that abuse of the healthcare system exists. She asked: "I believe no one likes to fall ill. No one wants to be sick. Therefore, tell me who is there to abuse system?" Well, in his 1st blog post as Health Minister, Mr Gan Kim Yong writes .. (SingaporeMD)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 14:44:02 GMT[How does a Town Council decide on awarding a contract to a Managing Agent?] It is clear that EM Services has been engaged by the Town Council to be its MA. Did they go through a tender process? On May 21, Mr Sitoh had not taken control of the Town Council yet. On May 27, he was already able to confirm EM Services has been appointed as MA.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 13:34:28 GMT[Support the Hong Lim Park Event For The Unemployed on 4 June (Sat) at 5pm] The event hopes to bring to attention the following matters:-http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 10:28:21 GMT[The 'O $ P $' Issue] During recent feedback sessions with Hougang residents, Shin Leong noted that loan sharks (Ah Long)'s runners have started to venture beyond traditional harassment methods of borrowers' households.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 10:17:16 GMTWhen it comes to constructing workable and realistic alternative policies .. We have done this through our manifesto "It's About You", and "Shadow Budget 2011". This is set to grow stronger as we set up our Policy Studies Sub-Committee which is tasked with tracking and studying PAP Govt policies. We will provide S'poreans with detailed alternative plans on how S'pore should proceed (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 06:33:45 GMTIt's time we cultivate a culture of having an independent President beholden to no one. Together with an alert citizenry and strong democratic institutions (currently lacking), we should be able to thwart a corrupt future leader. Many I've spoken to for feedback approve of Dr Tan, but the ruling party it appears has thrown a spanner into the works (RogerPoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 06:27:23 GMTHDB must return to its original aim of providing affordable flats to S'poreans simply because it is the humane thing to do. Mr Khaw's revelation that "tens of thousands of rental flats needed" shows that perhaps HDB has deviated somewhat from this goal. Why else would so many such cheap and low-end flats be needed, if flats were truly affordable? (Andrew Loh - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 06:20:23 GMTThis is an interesting article comparing the recent political situation in Singapore with discords in a family.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 03:39:56 GMTFrom July, the prevailing CPF minimum sum will be revised upwards to $131,000, up from $123,000. CPF Board said the increase in minimum sum, which includes an adjustment for inflation, is to ensure that S'poreans set aside sufficient savings for their retirement (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 03:20:11 GMT[PM Lee Defends His Own Grassroots Activists From Internal Flak] I don't know how much PAP MPs rely on their grassroots activists to give them feedback about the ground. I do wonder if PAP MPs are aware of inherent weaknesses of such a feedback mechanism. (They are 'good' for some things, such as waving flags and banners. But they are lousy at providing feedback).http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 03:10:04 GMT'Slower growth means fewer job opportunities' - reflections of comments by Minister Khawhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 02:56:53 GMT[Supplement To May 17 Commentary 'The GE 2011 Political Demise Of Lee Kuan Yew: A Supreme Irony'] Although I had already completed my series of commentaries on GE 2011, one of them - on Lee Kuan Yew - had attracted so many responses from readers (more than 300) that I thought it would be useful to follow up with a supplement to the commentary, in order to recapitulate the readers' most cogent arguments in their pro- or anti-LKY stand, and in so doing, indicate my own.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 02:51:19 GMTWhy are adults so dumb? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 00:26:10 GMT[The Elected Presidency: We need real options] Mr Lim Boon Heng has observed, "S'poreans might prefer a President 'not so closely related' to PAP". Mr Lim is right. Although Dr Tan Cheng Bock has quit his membership in PAP, he is still too closely associated with the ruling party (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 00:12:34 GMTWhen "Yahoo! Answers" asked netizens who they would like to have as S'pore's next President, many suggested George Yeo .. Over 700 responses was received to the question posed: "Who should run for President?" (Fann Sim - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 00:05:37 GMT[Expect a different kind of Presidential Election] The political climate might disadvantage a Govt-endorsed candidate, but it should be about who the best man for the job is (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 31 May 2011 00:00:56 GMTQuestion your doctor (TheStar, Malaysia)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 23:57:46 GMTU.S. cartoon (MiamiHerald)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 23:54:57 GMTSince I started getting involved campaigning and social activism in S'pore, I have been hearing many concerns from friends and family, people who were surprised or even shocked that I would choose such a path, and that I would actually come out of my shell and voice out. Anger isn't and never was my main motivation in doing what I do. Hope is. Hope and love for not just myself, but for what I believe in (Kirsten Han)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 23:39:50 GMTI hope I have shown that there are many extenuating factors that reduce the ills of a minimum wage. These ills must also be weighed against benefits of a minimum wage - for e.g. productivity growth, economic stimulus, balancing of local-foreign worker composition in the workforce. We will look at more benefits in the next instalment, which will also examine Workfare (Gordon Lee - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 23:35:38 GMTMr Gerard Ee's committee must realize that reducing ministerial pay alone will not address all these grievances, because their root cause is not simply the high pay itself, but arrogance of PAP and their refusal to listen to S'poreans' grievances concerning bread-and-butter issues .. if PAP itself does not change, nothing that Mr Ee's committee does will appease S'poreans (Ng E-Jay, SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 23:28:59 GMTPM Lee's letter establishes a positive foundation for PAP MPs following the recent GE. PM Lee's letter is far from exhaustive. Given the different dynamics in Parliament, PAP MPs should also be cognizant of their interactions and exchanges with the new Opposition MPs (Letter from Kwan Jin Yao - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 23:20:47 GMT[Consequence of hire-fire policies: Unhappiest Workers in the World] In the absence of independent unions, the PAP govt pandered to demands of businesses and foreign direct investments for lowering workers' benefits and importing foreign labor...to grow the GDP quickly. In the process, they destroyed this great francise known as the 'Singapore Worker'.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 23:10:51 GMTLast Saturday's report ['All MPs can now rent void deck space'] mentioned I closed the office I built in 1985 for the MPS. This is untrue. The office was actually built by HDB, not by me. In 1992, HDB swiftly demolished my MP's office within a day. I was then forced to use the void deck, and this was where I conducted my MPS (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 23:03:03 GMTAdequate capacity, healthcare cost are top priorities (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:53:35 GMT[Criticisms that PAP grassroots volunteers may not have been honest in their feedback] "As an MP, we need to set the tone, that we do not shoot down negative comments. Or else, word will get around that, oh, this MP only likes to listen to good things." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:49:05 GMTAlmost everything in our daily lives is computerised. The relevant governing bodies have proven they use data only for official purposes. Therefore, privacy abuse issues will not arise even if our traffic movements are recorded (Javier Koh - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:41:21 GMTWe thank Ms Angeline Tang for her feedback ["Park or rubbish dump?"]. We appeal to all parkgoers and diners to dispose of litter in a proper manner. (West Coast Town Council - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:36:08 GMTPUB, the national water agency, thanks Mr Daniel Chan for his letter ["What are the penalties?"] STForum Onlinehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:32:44 GMTNew Game for Singaporeans taking Public Transport (ALVINOLOGY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:14:38 GMTPreserve rail station as part of transport network (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:10:53 GMTLook at how European, US cities discourage private car ownership (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:08:31 GMTHow to reduce jams, accidents on expressways (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:07:02 GMT"It is a reflection of pent-up demand, and also the home buyers who deliberated for quite a couple of months before proceeding with their home buying decision." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 22:00:33 GMTAs the Govt reviews the income ceiling to qualify to buy new public housing, property analysts cautioned that a balance would have to be struck between helping the sandwiched class and ensuring that the market could cope with an influx of new buyers. The income ceiling has not changed in 17 years (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 21:56:34 GMT[Making a Calculated Move] Young couples eagerly looking for new homes should calculate their chances. My advice to them is to opt for non-mature estates. You improve considerably your chance..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 21:48:43 GMTMinister Khaw Boon Wan said he has asked HDB to look into more mature estates as possibilities for BTO launches next year (lot of Readers' Comments - Alicia Wong, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 16:18:00 GMT"Dignified pay" and "Clear national direction needed"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 16:13:18 GMTThe uncommon Jack Sim - S'porean extraordinaire [and Mountbatten resident!]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 14:51:33 GMT[If our economy ever falters, that is the end of S'pore] Dear readers: A colleague of mine showed me this link [YouTube] about parliamentary debates on ministerial salaries some years back (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 14:40:47 GMTOver the last week, this has become something of a pet issue for me. Is there, or is there not, any conflict of interest in the management of our Town Councils? 'Conflict of interest' raises important ethical and moral issues in governance and we shouldn't treat it as a frivolous matter (Article 14)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 14:34:45 GMTTransport Minister Lui Tuck Yew seen taking public transport [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 11:45:03 GMT[War Hero in Hougang] I was very privileged to hear about a rare oral history account by one of my constituents, Mr Shu Liang Cheng, 81 years of age.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 11:39:06 GMT[Bad idea to lease void decks to MPs] Why is it that in all these years, nobody has thought of the obvious? Why do we have such a compartmentalised brain?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 10:49:21 GMT[Yeo Guat Kwang - PAP MP with 64 other jobs] PM Lee's "Rules of Prudence" contradicts the statement made by Mr Gerald Ee .. As can be seen, PAP MPs also have opportunity to make lots of money. This is via company directorships which they are appointed to.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 10:47:53 GMT[Lui on the Train - Much Ado About Nothing] Well, it's not a "bad" thing if he takes the public transport to see what it is like. But to me, it's an overkill to pitch this as a "good" thing. If some S'poreans think this is a "good" thing, then I have to say their expectations of our govt are too low. We're not paying them peanuts - we shouldn't be getting monkeys.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 10:46:19 GMTThe first few seconds you may be inclined to click away due to the low quality of the recording, but this speech is quite good (zentrader)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 05:25:49 GMTSpeaking at a dinner Saturday to thank PAP volunteers: "Unfortunately, we may not have picked up and interpreted it correctly, and acted on it the way we should have done, but it's not for lack of trying on the part of the activists." (Faris Mokhtar, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 05:19:33 GMT[Sacred Cows for our PM to Consider Slaying] As our PM slew one sacred cow after another to hold on to power desperately after the recent watershed GE, I have listed another few sacred cows for the PM to consider slaying ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 05:13:56 GMTThat the PAP is in control of many things in S'pore is a fact, ranging from media to unions. So the last thing people want to see is another President close to PAP. It's good of Dr Tan Cheng Bock to step forward to contest the Presidential Election. I hope other qualified S'poreans will step forward too. It'd be extraordinary if the election is another walkover for the 3rd time (RogerPoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 04:47:06 GMTThey came from different backgrounds and age groups equipped with different skill sets but all with one objective: To take SDP to a new level of competence and organisational capability in preparation for the next general elections (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 04:36:50 GMTIn the 2nd of a 3-part series, Nicole Seah speaks to Yahoo! about her campaign donation controversy, her continued use of social media, and her hopes for the future (Fann Sim, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 04:31:52 GMTWhat Khaw did not address was the affordability of new purchase flats, and whether they will still be priced at 30 year repayment levels. Khaw also told the session that stiff competition posed by foreigners is a reality. The reality is that while foreigners are allowed to displace us from affordable housing units, university places and standing room on trains and buses, the cabinet is immune from the forces of globalisation (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 04:12:57 GMTColin Tan [head, research and consultancy at Chesterton Suntec International] wrote an interesting article in the Today newspaper titled "Will there be a housing market overhaul?" Only time will tell if Mr Khaw is a game changer, and if his initiatives will live up to his promise (Dawson Koo, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 04:04:06 GMTWhat's happening? Didn't NMD know the problem, or they did know the problem but not building because policy maker decided otherwise? Or is it info on supply and demand was misleading that led to current mess? Boon Wan is only in the job for a couple of weeks and he is in a big hurry to clear the mess (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 01:32:47 GMTPM Lee to PAP MPs: Declare to me your business interests for your own 'protection'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 01:15:51 GMTI agree with Thursday's letter ["Meet-the-People Sessions alone won't do"]. As one who used to volunteer at such weekly sessions, I consider such meetings time-consuming as MPs and their grassroots leaders are invariably involved in writing appeal letters on matters of employment, housing and financial aid.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 01:10:06 GMTFor many people, having a child is the ultimate commitment to a partner. A life you have created together and are responsible for raising. It's a commitment many people make without getting married. But some then go on to tie the knot, like British Labor Party leader Ed Miliband and his partner of 6 years, Justine Thornton. Why? (BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 00:52:52 GMTThere is great uncertainty about the future of the world economy, and developing countries should prepare now for the next crisis, according to prominent experts at a finance seminar in Geneva last week (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 00:46:21 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock was 1st to throw his hat in the ring, declaring his intention to run for President last week. Another non-establishment candidate who is widely tipped to be a candidate is former NTUC Income CEO Tan Kin Lian. What is even more intriguing is who PAP's choice of candidate will be (Nigel Tan, Chief Editor, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 30 May 2011 00:10:36 GMTInderjit Singh attempts a backflip on Tan Cheng Bock.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 23:58:48 GMT"My sense is that people would prefer if there were someone who can be a strong unifying symbol for S'poreans, who's not so closely related to PAP. I don't know whether Dr Tan Cheng Bock, in spite of his independent streak of thinking and expression of views, fully meets the bill." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 23:52:52 GMTThe following is a Facebook entry by Ms Joan Fong, the daughter of Mr Hon Sui Sen, Singapore's Finance Minister from 1970 to 1983 (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 23:47:02 GMTFollowing on from the radical reshuffle that saw LKY, GCT, WKS and MBT excluded from the new cabinet and the appointment of a committee to review ministerial salaries, PM Lee's efforts to transform image of PAP continued in earnest with his issuance of a 37-point document titled "Rules of Prudence for PAP MPs" (Nigel Tan, Chief Editor, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 23:40:03 GMTCiting criticism levelled at grassroots activists in the aftermath of recent GE, PM Lee defended the work of activists who had given "their honest feedback, which unfortunately we sometimes failed to interpret correctly". "During the 9-day election campaign, I know how hard everybody worked ... and seeing to organising rallies and to all the things big and small which make a successful election campaign." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 23:27:16 GMTThey are GMs accountable for the day-to-day admin functions of town councils. Some of them are also employees of MAs who win contracts from town councils to service the estate. This arrangement - known to occur in at least 4 town councils in S'pore - has raised the issue of conflict of interest in town council mgmt (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 23:20:09 GMT[Public housing flats - S'poreans come first or foreigners?] If entire blocks of flats can be reserved for foreigners, it is hard to understand or accept why the same cannot be done for homeless S'poreans who are desperately pleading for help (Andrew Loh, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 23:11:41 GMT[SERS flats converted to condo for expats] The 5 blocks of 4-storeys each at Tiong Bahru [Blocks 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9] were selected for HDB's SERS in 1995. It is unclear what the 'interim use' of the blocks was between 1995 and 2007. Presently, the 5 blocks, now named "Global Residence", together provides 120 "exclusive" apartments "with 2 to 3 bedroom suites ideal for expatriates and families." (Andrew Loh / Joshua Chiang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 23:04:39 GMT[The curious case of Block 29] On 18 January [2010], officers from MCYS moved the homeless campers of Sembawang Park to a block of flats at Havelock Road - Block 29. TOC visited them on 2 separate days, one in the afternoon and one in the night (Andrew Loh / Joshua Chiang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 22:55:22 GMTMr Khaw said: "The problem HDB face is they are just short of rental flats. In the whole of S'pore today, we have 45,000 rental flats. But that's not enough .. we need to ramp up the building of rental flats as quickly as we can. Not just by a few thousand, actually we need to build by tens of thousands. And the earlier the better."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 22:38:58 GMT[MPs Zaqy, Dr Intan to reach out to youth in Malay community] Dr Yaacob said such efforts will deepen engagement beyond regular meetings between Malay-Muslim MPs and community leaders (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 22:26:47 GMT[MICA's challenge: How to present official info in a better way] "This Govt doesn't shy away from serious debate. Our policies are up for scrutiny, and we want to have a proper discussion." To a question about how to strike a balance in reacting to online comments, he said the Govt would respond when it is necessary to correct wrong ideas, as its responsibility to the wider community is to defend what is right (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 22:19:39 GMT[Acting MCYS Minister asks Facebook 'friends' for ideas] MG [NS] Chan wants to hear from netizens on how to attract the manpower needed to meet a higher demand for childcare services. In another FB post, MG [NS] Chan, who is also MOS [Info, Comm and Arts], asked for ideas to promote a responsible code of conduct for Internet usage (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 22:07:17 GMTHank Lim is a senior research fellow, and Simon Tay chairman, of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 22:00:15 GMT[Besides ERP, any other solution?] As a business development director for a MNC, I travel widely. My take is that a world-class public transport system does little when many people load the system during the morning and evening peak hours. LTA should gather feedback from the public before going ahead with a potentially expensive ERP exercise trial that may turn out to be yet another exercise in futility.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 21:53:40 GMTThe following is a letter from Mr Richard O'Barry to RWS and STB on the importation of 23 wild dolphins from Solomon Islands by RWS, for entertainment purposes at its IR in S'pore. Mr O'Barry heads "The Dolphin Project" at the Earth Institute, which works to free and prevent wild dolphins from captivity (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 21:46:48 GMTWhen GE 2011 ended, I felt very frustrated and unhappy. I was one of the 40% who voted for the Opposition. The thought of having to endure another 5 years where PAP controlled 93% of seats in Parliament was almost unbearable. Then suddenly, there was a ray of hope .. (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 14:10:22 GMT[Mr Inderjit Singh, why is it "awkward" for Mr Tan Cheng Bock to run for President?] As a citizen of S'pore, I was quite shocked that you as an MP made the above comments, and would like to seek clarification from you .. (From: pallys sg .. To: inderjit@singnet.com.sg .. Cc: lee_hsien_loong@pmo.gov.sg, news@today.com.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 11:03:22 GMT[How Foreign Talents Bully S'poreans in the Work Place] Hi Gilbert: Thank you for providing support to fellow jobless S'poreans who are directly or indirectly displaced by FT/FWs. I'm also affected ..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 10:54:57 GMT[How PAP uses taxpayer-funded grassroots for political gain] Unlike in other countries where political parties - just like the Opposition here - have to fund their own grassroots activities, PAP can save its funds to be used during the election campaign.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 06:04:38 GMT[Picking up where Ong Teng Cheong left off] I said on my Facebook page a few days ago that "I am one of the many S'poreans who urged him [Dr Tan Cheng Bock] to stand for the upcoming Presidential Election." I think that it is important to say why I support Dr Tan's bid for the elected presidency.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 05:28:51 GMT[The Presidential Elections] That's why it is important to have a truly independent President. A "free spirit", if you want to call it that. A President who didn't receive any favours from the PAP, and who doesn't feel obliged to return any.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 05:23:31 GMTA newly-published 100-volume collection of works on Buddhist medicine was unveiled Saturday at the Shaolin Temple, the shrine of Kong Fu in central China's Henan Province. "China Buddhist Medicine Collection", compiled in 101 volumes and 70 million characters, includes more than 3,000 documents on the theories and practices of Buddhist medicine (XinHua)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 02:34:55 GMT[Patients must be informed of the various tests being ordered to ensure they understand their medical condition] How much is too much? Patients or whoever is picking up the tab at private hospitals are beginning to question whether they have been subjected to too many tests or procedures, and subsequently charged a wee bit too much for both (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 02:24:39 GMT[M1 Service Disruption: Separating a Good Crisis Response from the Great] On 18 May 2011, M1 experienced technical difficulties .. resulted in service disruptions to many subscribers. From a PR perspective, M1 handled the potential crisis well .. if M1 had gone 1 step further and offered an additional day of free calls, M1 could have turned this potential crisis to its advantage and enhanced its brand image.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 02:19:24 GMTNicole Seah conducts informal Meet-the-People session at MacPherson yesterdayhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 01:25:27 GMTThe people are now jubilant over the announcement by Boon Wan of the release of more public housing. They have forgotten how they have ended in the shit hole in the 1st place. But after getting used to waiting for 4 or 5 years, the beans are so happy if they can get it in 3. Now they will go down on their knees if they can get it in 2 years (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 01:20:33 GMT"Hi Mr Tan: You probably aware presidential election is coming soon. As the qualification criteria are so stringent, not many could fulfill. I am convinced you could meet all the criteria. We need a capable President who could hold the other key to the national reserve. I strongly encourage you to stand for this election. Richard Wong" [REPLY: I will decide in a few days' time]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 01:02:51 GMTThe Ryan Giggs' drama goes to show that rights to privacy and free press have to keep up with technological changes in this age of social media (The writer is a senior lawyer. Despite the hoo-ha, his 2 sons still venerate Giggs as a M.U. legend - TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 00:52:05 GMT[I have loved and lived] She may be pushing 70 but the effervescent author and political commentator - who recently grabbed attention with her blog posts on the GE - has a zest for life that puts someone half her age to shame (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 29 May 2011 00:43:28 GMTManchester United v Barcelona - in pictures (GuardianUK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 22:13:11 GMTThe staff of Yahoo! Southeast Asia had a pleasant surprise Friday evening when Nicole Seah dropped by for a visit at its Anson Road office. In the 1st of a 3-part series, she answers questions posed by Yahoo! Singapore's Facebook and Twitter followers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 17:12:24 GMTWalk the Village Doctor to the Istana!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 17:05:04 GMTNational Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan: "As we intend to ease the $8,000 income ceiling on HDB flats, we can expect additional demand and we have to prepare for that." (Elena Torrijos, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 13:00:35 GMTAt a time when S'poreans are feeling threatened by the high influx of migrant workers, Opposition parties would not have won much sympathisers had they campaign on foreign issues. With little impetus to make any real change, it seems PAP's foreign policy looks set to stay conservative even as all else are being liberalised (NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 12:33:18 GMTPerhaps it is time our elected leader puts his money where his mouth is, and begin to level the political playing field - starting with GROs. To paraphrase Mr Low, to play a game of soccer, let's not make goal posts smaller than the ball. Otherwise, the PA's partisan role will increasingly come into sharper focus, especially if more Opposition members are elected as MPs in future (Andrew Loh, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 12:25:54 GMTProud Arrogant Party MPs are reminded again by their Boss of the do's and dont's. Maybe PM should also remind MPs that being late when invited as guest of honour is disgusting! Maybe being PAP, proud arrogant people, they know no wrong! And do no wrong! Apart from being late, it'll be nice if PAP MPs.. (FeedMeToTheFish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 11:14:17 GMT"Tan Kin Lian for President"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 10:43:10 GMT[The 2011 parliament according to my model] We can't get a 1st World Parliament because the system is designed against one. Reform, in my view, must include reforming the electoral system, and I hope I have demonstrated how simple it is to produce an electoral outcome that is miles fairer, and more representative, than what we actually got.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 10:34:27 GMT[NUSS Post-General Election Dialogue] This is a speech I delivered on 26 May 2011. Other panelists were Ho Soak Harn, Benjamin Pwee, Nicole Seah, Harminder Pal Singh, Vincent Wijeysingha and Alex Yam.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 10:30:30 GMTThe cynicism of PM Lee's promise is borne out of a citizenry being disempowered for far too long. PM Lee's challenge then is to address this... by saying clearly what it is that he wants changed. So far, he has failed to articulate this in an unequivocal manner. In the meantime, lets hold off the cynicism (Andrew Loh, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 10:14:00 GMTPMO issued a letter Friday, laying down rules on how PAP MPS should behave [lots of Readers' Comments] Elena Torrijos, Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 05:26:14 GMTDear Mr Heng: The recent polls have triggered many dramatic changes, the biggest of which is PM's consistent refrain for transformation. At the risk of sounding like one of those domineering, opinionated mothers, let me try to persuade you, from the point of view of a concerned parent, why a change is due (Monica Lim, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 05:11:03 GMTLim Wee Kiak kicked it off with his infamous remark. And on 27 May: "On further reflection .. I withdraw those remarks and apologise for making them." But if we are to believe these words from GE2006, the day of reckoning is yet to come: "You can't just go and say - OooOooooOooh I've apologized, let's move on. Can you commit a dishonorable act and say 'let's move on, because I've apologized?' You may move on, hah, but you're going to move on out of politics in time." (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 03:15:33 GMTAfter Dr Lim Wee Kiak fell into a hole after he implied that PAP only listens to S'poreans if they are as well paid as PAP ministers or MPs, he dug himself deeper into said hole.. In the end, he has had to apologise and eat his words. He should have been advised to acknowledge his mistake, apologise for it, and then act on the apology: not to obfuscate, misrepresent, and hope the problem would go away (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 03:02:05 GMTIrrefutable proof that Pritam Singh & WP Aljunied team is related to LKY !!!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 02:48:01 GMTST gives prominent coverage to Tin Pei Ling to salvage her image while smearing Opposition supporters.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 02:09:37 GMTKan Seng was promoted to Coordinating Minister earlier, Mah Bow Tan openly announced how great and successful his housing policies and programs were. These incidents were evidence they were doing well, or their superior must be telling them so, for a job well done. What about people's assessment of their performances? So we have conflicting expectations and KPIs to start with (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 01:58:13 GMT[HDB leases will end at ZERO] Whenever I discuss this with S'poreans, somebody will inevitably argue that PAP will never allow HDB apartment leases to expire with zero value. I'm well prepared since I've rebutted this argument many times. Here goes anyway..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 01:06:54 GMT[Facebooking for 2016 polls] Following the recent watershed general election, winners and losers alike are hitting the streets and cyberspace to connect with the constituents (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 28 May 2011 00:29:18 GMTPassengers and crew on board doomed Air France jet endured terrifying THREE-AND-A-HALF MINUTE plunge into the ocean after it fell out of the sky (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 23:27:17 GMTIn a ST article "Most think Govt acted rightly, says Cheng Bock" dated 30 July 1987, Dr Tan said majority of S'poreans were satisfied that the govt had acted appropriately, and he was also quoted as saying... (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 22:56:15 GMTAMK GRC MP Inderjit Singh: "For Presidential Elections, there's always been a candidate the Govt supports ... it's quite clear we will be fully behind this person, so it will be very awkward [to have Dr Tan in the contest]." The PAP Govt has yet to unveil the candidate, if any, it is endorsing (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 22:50:43 GMTWe refer to Mr Lionel De Souza's letter ["Breach of Political Donations Act?"]. There is no basis for the writer to cast unfounded aspersions on our candidates or methods (Goh Meng Seng, STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 22:43:28 GMT[Post-GE] With Aljunied GRC and Hougang SMC now under the care of an Opposition party, is HDB proceeding with implementation of "Remaking Our Heartland" plans for Hougang? (Lau Quek Hong, ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 22:36:51 GMTLimit private homes sold to foreigners (3 letters - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 22:30:55 GMTMPs also urged to listen hard to concerns, reflect people's worries and aspirations (Loh Chee Kong, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 22:13:22 GMT5 MPs, including Senior MOS Grace Fu and MOS Halimah Yacob, were on the ground to observe the new platform's first day of operation (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 22:09:50 GMTI refer to recent news that LTA is looking into implementing a new ERP system... we need to see beyond simplistic assumption that pegging higher costs to increased car usage would result in effective means of keeping vehicle population under control. Is this a sustainable solution in the long term? (Letter from Chang Jun Biao, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 22:03:16 GMTHelen Neo is head of consumer banking, Maybank Singapore (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 21:56:53 GMT[55 Large Photos] U.S. President Barack Obama began a six-day, four-nation tour May 22, 2011 (TheBigPicture)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 21:54:25 GMTDiscussions with Cat Welfare Societyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 16:46:14 GMTThe city state's ruling party lost seats in recent elections and analysts believe new technologies aided the Opposition (AlJazeera)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 15:36:06 GMTDr Tan Cheng Bock eyeing presidential electionhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 14:08:06 GMT21 investors had filed the case against DBS bank on behalf of over 200 others, to recoup $18 million they lost when Lehman Brothers collapsed in 2008. In December last year, Justice Lee Seiu Kin found in favour of DBS bank and dismissed the investors' claim, setting the stage for an appeal. If the Court of Appeal agrees with the dismissal, this will be the investors' last legal recourse (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 14:00:34 GMTRules of Prudence for PAP MPs (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 13:56:16 GMTDr Lim Wee Kiak apologises for "inappropriate" remarks.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 12:03:35 GMT[GE 2011: How and when did you decide? Part 4] "How important were these sources of information in determining your final vote choice?"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 12:00:27 GMTEmeritus SM Goh will visit Quebec, Canada, from May 28 to 31 to attend the 29th Annual Plenary Meeting of the IAC in his capacity as S'pore's former PM... will be accompanied by officials from MFA and MAS (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 11:47:03 GMTIt would be ideal if the Govt "refrains" from endorsing any candidate in the upcoming Presidential Election. In an interview with AsiaWeek in early 2000, President Ong said: "I was elected to do a job. And I had to do that job whether the govt - or anyone else - liked it or not." That's the mentality our next President should have (Jason Lee, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 11:29:49 GMTIn a statement Friday, Dr Lim said dignity cannot be and must not be measured purely in monetary terms.. a minister's pay is a sensitive issue, and is one that many are concerned about. Dr Lim also clarified his comments made to Lianhe Zaobao, which were reproduced in Lianhe Wanbao. He said he made 3 fundamental points... (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 10:59:18 GMTWho do you think should run as President? Have your say here (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 10:32:35 GMTThe more one digs, the more finds... (Article 14 )http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 10:23:38 GMTThe new arrangment does not apply to MPs who currently have makeshift arrangements for their MPS at void decks (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 10:16:01 GMT[Eligibility certificate applications open June 1] The government also announced Friday the setting up of the Presidential Elections Committee... to ensure candidates for the office of President have the qualifications to stand for the election (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 09:53:31 GMT[Author loses appeal against S'pore conviction] British author Alan Shadrake to start 6-week jail term over claims in his book about S'pore's use of death penalty.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 07:29:15 GMTLaw Professor Kevin YL Tan on Elections 2011 (Koh Choon Hwee, KentRidgeCommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 06:46:09 GMTAccording to election rules, Presidential Election must be held before 31 August this year and it is believed Elections Department will be making the announcement for potential candidates to pick up forms to apply for certificates of eligibility by next week (liyana, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 05:17:41 GMTSingapore court rejects Dr Lim's bid to block probe (TheBruneiTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 05:09:05 GMTSDP will conduct a workshop this weekend to chart the way forward in the next 5 years on the "Road to 2016". The workshop will be attended by 150 members and volunteers who will discuss the various strategies to bring the Party forward.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 05:05:49 GMTNew National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan said his priority is to focus on the housing needs of groups such as young couples, divorcees with children, and low income families (Kai Fong - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 05:01:52 GMTThe criteria are actually PAP's criteria. Do the people have any say in them? Who should decide the eligibility criteria for an elected President, the people or a political party that is in power? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 04:46:45 GMTIn response to Friday's Court of Appeal dismissal, international rights group, Human Rights Watch, said: "The prosecution of Alan Shadrake for doing nothing more than calling for legal reform is a devastating blow to free speech in S'pore. More broadly, until the govt releases its iron grip on basic freedoms, the S'porean people will remain all the poorer." (Andrew Loh, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 04:27:54 GMTNever Watch Enough Channel 8 Dramas (Koh Choon Hwee - KentRidgeCommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 03:06:13 GMTI got a junk mail from a person called Charles Lim hawking his foreign manpower wares. I felt these people are scums of S'pore society, writing those hurtful words about how good it is to hire foreigners than Singaporeans or even Malaysians (SSPT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 03:03:26 GMT76-year-old British author on Friday lost his appeal against a 6-week jail term and fine (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 02:22:27 GMTTo move up the party ranks, MPs and grassroots leaders etc have to please their superiors, the ministers. For the last 50 years, this has meant toeing the party line, repeating party policies like a parrot and above all, treating ministers as holier than thou (G Hui, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 02:18:25 GMT[Singaporeans got provide BIG HOUSE for PM Lee] When Mr Ee does his salary review, hopefully he will take this into account. If he forgets about it, I am sure everyone in cyberspace will remind him.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 02:07:17 GMTS'poreans do not 'short-change' ministers. However, at a time when pension scheme and high annual salary of ministers comes under intense criticism from the public whose CPF scheme is under tight control and where they can't even draw out any money until age 62, it is perhaps unwise to make comments such as his (Andy Soon, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 02:04:49 GMTIndonesia is the best place for entrepreneurs to start a business, a BBC survey suggested (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 02:01:15 GMTPhD holder fails to find jobs in S'pore now looking abroad.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 01:58:16 GMTFormer PAP MP Tan Cheng Bock explains why he might stand as a candidate in the upcoming election (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 01:17:13 GMT[Former PAP MP Ang Mong Seng is CEO of EM services which run Sembawang Town Council] The residents of Block 686 who drank the 'corpse water' are unlikely to succeed in their demands for the management of Sembawang Town Council to step down.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 01:10:41 GMTThe current govt has been entrenched for too long to forget they are not employees like the civil servants. There is no contract of service and no terms of employment. The KPI, if useful, is to let people judge performance of the politician, and whether to re-elect him. It must not be an instrument to reward him with more bonuses or pay increases (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 01:04:28 GMTAssoc Prof Mak Yuen Teen lends imprimatur to the oft repeated arguments about ministerial salaries. And if they still persist in the contaminated formulation of drawing private sector pay, to paraphrase the good prof, they risk receiving an unexpected performance appraisal from the electorate again. George Yeo was just the 1st to face the music (SingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 00:14:07 GMT[Rule of Law - Justice and Equality] All of us remember how "efficient" the police was when they reacted to the police report filed against James Gomez by the Elections Dept over that "criminal intimidation" charges. Fast forward to 2011. I have absolutely nothing against Ms Tin personally. I hope the police could act on this case with the same efficiency that they have shown in 2006 against James Gomez.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 27 May 2011 00:03:29 GMTBased on reading an article in Temasek Review, I was under the impression that Esmaco is a company based in Australia and probably originating from there... There is still the unanswered question as to how the MD of Premas could also be the GM of Jurong Town Council and avoid any possible conflict of interest (Article 14)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 23:52:37 GMTA colleague recently remarked that being the [self opined "best"] expert that he was in his field, there was no one else he could discuss his cases with anymore. However, as a doctor, he must never assume he can no longer learn from anyone. Personally I find that I have learnt much from 2 groups of people... (SingaporeMD)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 23:45:07 GMTThoughts on changes to the death penalty in China (We Believe In Second Chances)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 23:34:22 GMTAfter more than 50 years of running S'pore, its octogenarian leader is stepping aside. Can the island nation stay prosperous and peaceful as democratic storms begin to blow? (Parag Khanna, Foreign Policy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 23:29:14 GMTCheng Bock to run for President -- MIWs Caught Off-guard?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 23:22:05 GMTWe recover tax arrears from the national surplus-sharing by the Govt, such as Growth Dividend and Workfare Special Bonus. These are taxpayers who have long overdue tax arrears and did not make payment arrangements. Notices are sent out when we recover for the 1st time (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 22:55:45 GMT[Give them room to dream] Increase Civil Service headcount, so public servants have more time to look ahead to future (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 22:49:39 GMTA question was asked to illustrate with examples ministers' pension computation ['Pension: Illustrate with examples']. The PM's secretary, Mr Tan Kee Yong, replied ['Panel also looking into pensions for office-holders, MPs']. I urge Mr Tan to answer the question directly and transparently (Timothy Sia - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 22:45:26 GMT[Satellite tracking fine but reduce car costs first] With satellite tracking, the ERP system will be far more efficient in managing road usage. It is important, however, not to implement a half-baked solution -- that is, adopting satellite-tracking system without removing complex tax disincentives in place to curb car ownership (Alfred Lim)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 22:38:50 GMT[Time for a robust review of ERP] I read with great concern the report on advent of new ERP system based on satellite tracking technology, especially the part where transport researcher Lee Der Horng says it will allow ERP to be implemented 'much more aggressively' (Tin Chee Yee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 22:29:58 GMT[SBS evaluating requests of app developers] We refer to the letter 'SBS move to block phone apps: A lose-lose situation'.. We recognise it would be useful to end-users to have access to some of these apps. Therefore, we are currently evaluating several requests by 3rd-party application developers and assessing them based on merits of their proposals (Tammy Tan, SBS Transit)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 22:23:47 GMT[A retiree's wish list] It is truly encouraging PM Lee and his Cabinet have committed themselves to consider concerns and views of the people while reviewing and implementing policies henceforth. With this in mind, and as a recent retiree, I share my wish list for their consideration (Henry Lim)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 22:18:14 GMTMr Khaw Boon Wan, the new Minister for National Development, will "have a free hand to rethink and reshape policies", PM Lee has said [Colin Tan, Chesterton Suntec International] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 22:02:59 GMTSmall apartment or condominium units have captured the attention of the residential property market here in recent years, with their popularity among buyers and the high per-square-foot prices that they are able to command [Ong Teck Hui is executive director at Credo Real Estate] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 21:58:33 GMTSaudi [Arabia] Health Ministry had ordered a halt to all medical treatment of its citizens at Mount Elizabeth, following the deaths of 3 Saudi children at the hospital within a week of each other earlier this month (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 21:54:08 GMTDr Lim faces 94 charges of professional misconduct levelled by MOH for professional misconduct. Her bills amounted to $24.8 million for care rendered in 2007 to the patient (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 21:48:26 GMTInvestments by water companies in the last 5 years, when fully realised, will add $590 million in value-add to the economy, as well as create 2,300 professional and skilled jobs (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 21:44:21 GMTShoppers soon will be able to use mobile phones to pay for things at the checkout counter under a system unveiled by Google Inc. and other major companies (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 21:39:25 GMT[Manchester United's path to the May 28 final - in pictures] We track Man U's progress on their road to Wembley (GuardianUK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 21:36:57 GMTGE 2011's Real Winners - The People (But Who Are We?)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 15:49:47 GMTHougang Football Networkhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 15:33:36 GMTDear Dr Lim Wee Kiak: I am writing to you regarding something else you said in the same article that disturbs me more.. (Joshua Chiang, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 13:47:39 GMTMore residents have been turning up at MPS, after the recent GE. MPs said there has been a surge in the number of cases, with the increase being at least 30 per cent.. most of the new cases concern housing and financial assistance (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 13:26:03 GMTSurgeon Susan Lim has failed in her attempt to get the High Court to stop the Singapore Medical Council from appointing a 2nd disciplinary committee to investigate a complaint that she had overcharged a female patient from Brunei's royal family (Fann Sim, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 13:22:32 GMT[Possible Formulae for Determining Ministers' Salaries] Mak Yuen Teen is an associate professor at NUS Business School. He has an article in TODAY which discusses ministerial salaries. I agree with Mak. There is also a simpler idea which Mak did not mention..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 13:11:24 GMT39-year-old jobless PMET to employer: "Stop asking discriminating questions!"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 11:32:17 GMTthe mrbrown show: the Ser-Luck-a-lot remix (music video)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 11:28:04 GMTA single-storey conversion bungalow at 37 Marine Parade Road has been put up for sale for a whopping S$100 million to S$110 million, making it one of S'pore's most expensive landed homes, if successfully sold (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 10:52:29 GMT[Mark Haines : The Art of Asking Tough Questions...] It didn't matter to Mark whether you're were a CEO paid hundreds of millions of dollars in salary, or a Nobel Prize winner, or an overpaid minister from a small island - if you're not making sense on his show... and if you try to bluff your way through with less than perfect integrity, he would not let you get off the air with any dignity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 10:44:54 GMTDr Lim said his quote was taken out of context. "Minister's pay issue is a sensitive one. There must be a balance. After all, capable individuals who are willing to come forward to serve should not so because of pay and perks. On the other hand, they do have families and dependents and need to consider for retirement, etc." (Fann Sim, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 09:53:04 GMT[Kaya toast lowers S'pore's productivity, part 2] I don't have answers.. but I think it is important we begin a conversation that is wider and more searching than the simplistic one rolled out by a govt that knows only the "solution" of throwing money at problems, talking about retraining as a panacea, to the exclusion of everything else.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 09:13:40 GMTSBS: "This could result in wrong information being released to end-users, which is something we will not be able to control. The introduction of captcha is to prevent unauthorised re-use of proprietary information." The first thing that comes into my mind when I read that was... Bullshit!!!! (Dee Kay Dot As Gee dk.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 09:11:19 GMT"As a PAP MP, I am glad I have many friends, and also on the other side many who are not so friendly. It is sad when things are quoted out of context, and when they do not report the whole thing". At the very least, Dr Lim should write to the Chinese press to explain how he was misquoted (Dawson Koo , TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 08:42:54 GMT"It doesn't address traffic congestion issue at all. The current system has highly visible gantries, and fees shown on the board could be seen at least a hundred metres away. But the new satellite ERP system could create confusion among motorists because of its complex nature. Moreover, using satellite tracking intrudes one's privacy." (Xavier Lur, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 05:21:42 GMT10 ideas for ministerial salary reform (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 05:14:21 GMT[The following letter to TODAY Voices was rejected for publication] Here are some constructive suggestions that can be implemented rightaway to foster a truly pro-active and responsive Civil Service.. (See Leong Kit, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 04:38:32 GMTGovt rhetoric asserts a minimum wage policy has few merits, but significant demerits which are unquestionable. This multi-part series will examine these claims on 2 main fronts: economic theory, and empirical research. This time round, we look at supposed 'unemployment' with a minimum wage. In Part 2, we will look at costs of production, inflation, productivity and competitiveness (Gordon Lee, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 04:35:33 GMTNow that GE2011 is behind us, it is tempting to forget about all that happened and happened wrongly. However, we must continue to scrutinise the Elections Dept's practices and procedures. This is especially important for future elections - the next one being just a few months away (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 03:34:44 GMT"But when PM Lee announced a pay review at swearing-in ceremony of new Cabinet last Saturday, he referred only to 'political salaries'" (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 03:29:13 GMTAs Dr Lim Wee Kiat is one of the handpicked elect elite of PAP, these remarks have to be taken as official PAP policy. "We only talk to people who earn more than us because they are the only people worthy of our respect." Can PAP pls clarify whether Dr Lim's views are only his personal views (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 02:02:34 GMTAnyone of these could destroy you. All 5, and you are dead (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 01:35:00 GMTWhile the Salary Review Committee is thinking, perhaps there should be a rethink on the underlying assumptions for the high ministerial salaries. One key component that was built into the salary is the amount to prevent ministers from being corrupt. The ministers' salaries thus consist of a normal salary, plus a corruption prevention factor that is undefined (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 01:29:42 GMTOne teacher acknowledged and recognised the inequality of the system, but could offer no explanation. She had her own frustrations with the top-down dictates from MOE (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 26 May 2011 00:46:27 GMTLetter from Chong Hou Chun, Director, Water Supply [Network] Dept, PUB, the national water agency (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 23:20:03 GMT[Create cheaper class of flats] Peg price to 3 times median household income but with shorter lease, stricter conditions.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 23:16:22 GMTMr Eric Tan did the right thing to walk out of the Workers' Party. As a WP supporter for this election, I would like to know... (Goh Chan Yak, STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 23:11:58 GMTWHILE I am delighted to read that policy on ministers' salaries is being reviewed.. now may be appropriate time to consider allocating a salary for leader of the 'loyal opposition'. I would like to emphasise the words 'loyal opposition' as I feel Mr Low and his party have always believed it is possible to be in Opposition and yet remain loyal to S'pore (Lee Tow Kiat)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 23:05:08 GMT[Meet-the-People sessions alone won't do] I hope the newly elected MPs will really walk the ground to get a feel of the real concerns and sentiments of their constituents (Goh Eng Hwee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:57:35 GMT[SO MUCH FOCUS ON YOUNG S'POREANS...] What about concerns of 40-something S'porean PMETs who have lost their jobs? The 50-somethings whose jobs are taken by younger cohort do not fare any better. I appeal to Govt and employers to remember that people with experience and talent can still contribute. Don't consign them to scrapheap of afterthoughts (Tan Ai Ling)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:48:43 GMTReviewing ministerial salaries: 7 lessons from the private sector (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:27:38 GMT[Taking the review a step further] Let's look again at the pensions policy for ministers and other allowances for political appointees (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:24:41 GMTTeo Ser Luck yesterday defended his support for S'pore's decision to bid for YOG last year. Speaking to 200 students from 19 schools at a youth forum organised by Nanyang Junior College's REACH Youth Ambassadors and student leaders yesterday, he cited it as an example where he had to stand up for what he believed in (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:20:38 GMTLow holds first MPS in Aljunied GRC (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:12:05 GMTHe was speaking at the launch of this year's National Family Celebrations, which was attended by over 3,000 youth and their parents (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:08:38 GMTFrom informal chats at neighbourhood coffeeshops to impromptu audits of bus services plying the estate, PAP MPs who spoke to Today said they are consciously making the effort to reach out to constituents and garner unfettered feedback (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:05:32 GMTParliament not likely to reconvene for 3 months (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 22:00:43 GMTAccounting firms need to focus on talent management (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 21:55:52 GMT3 Saudi children who died at Mount E were 'critically ill' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 21:50:47 GMT[Is this the PAP value system?] Nee Soon GRC MP, Dr Lim Wee Kiat's equating high pay to dignity give us an idea of the value system among members of PAP - a rich person should be shown more respect than a poor person. A person higher up the corporate hierarchy should be listened to more than a person lower in the hierarchy.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 21:45:55 GMTWe have to prevent PAP from amending the constitution whenever it deems it fit. To ensure this, Opposition must obtain sufficient seats in Parliament to prevent PAP from having a 2/3 majority. 30 seats for the Opposition, and PAP's stranglehold will be broken. This is achievable even by the next GE (Article 14)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 21:44:28 GMTThe mainstream press now has a freer hand in reporting the facts. PAP MP Irene Ng seems unable or unwilling to operate in this brave new world. PAP renewal? I say, renew your own mindsets and mentality first (Ng E-Jay, SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 21:40:59 GMTPeople who are only concerned about money should remain in the private sector, where they do not run the risk of imparting wrong values, and need not worry about being role models. That is precisely why salaries of political appointment holders ought to be reduced substantially - because high salaries only serve to attract the wrong kind of people into politics (The Satay Club)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 21:39:07 GMTDumbass Remark of the Week: Dr Lim Wee Kiakhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 21:36:45 GMT[How to contain effects of foreign buying of property...] While govt restrict foreigners from buying HDB, the impact of foreigners buying private property has caused middle class S'poreans to be squeezed out, and this has pushed up demand for resale flats. There are several things govt can do about this:http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 21:27:01 GMTClarification: TR did not start or spread any rumors about MG [NS] Chan Chun Sing's family background.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 16:36:05 GMTWP sec-gen Low Thia Khiang has said it may be 1 or 2 months before handover of Aljunied Town Council is completed. Mr Low was speaking at the start of his 1st MPS at his division of Bedok Reservoir-Punggol of the Aljunied GRC (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 14:21:09 GMTWith her telegenic good looks and powerful political support, 43-year-old businesswoman Yingluck Shinawatra, sister of fugitive former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, has vaulted swiftly into front runner status in the July 3 vote, tapping support in the rural north and northeast heartland where her brother remains a populist hero 5 years after he was toppled in a coup (Reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 14:16:25 GMT[Infographic] The most common ways to bribe (RiaNovosti)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 14:03:31 GMTIn an interview with Yahoo! Sg, SPP's Jimmy Lee questioned just how effective PM Lee's call for change and the need to relook policies from a clean slate would be. The former DSTA scholar, who has served both in DSTA and the MinDef, said the reason for his sceptism is because in casual conversations he's had with civil servants, he's heard terms such as "populist measures" to describe PM Lee's recent actions (Jeanette Tan, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 13:57:30 GMTLim Wee Kiak defends ministerial salaries: Low pay is a loss of dignity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 13:31:33 GMTDr Lim Wee Kiat slammed by netizens for making snobbish remarks defending PAP ministers' salaries.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 13:28:57 GMT[Profitable Plots case prompts SIAS to urge regulation of land banking] One month after SIAS belatedly took up the Profitable Plots case, they called for greater regulation of the land banking industry in S'pore. It is disappointing that SIAS is not taking more proactive steps to help investors.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 13:22:59 GMTBy and large, PAP has done a good job.. they were, and are, well paid to do a good job! If a particular party has a good track record, voters should vote for them because they feel that party can continue to do a good job, and not because we are beholden to them for their past good deeds (G Hui, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 13:11:37 GMTThe SMRT vandalism case and the dumping of the corpse.. I believe they are caused indirectly by this outsourcing menace, where work is parceled off to the lowest bidder and there is insufficient coordination to ensure a high level of security and alertness (Ng E-Jay, SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 11:30:15 GMTThe group, which includes volunteers who helped with the party's East Coast GRC team in the May GE, has circulated a petition which it will send to the party's CEC eventually (Andrew Loh, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 11:22:57 GMTThis was one of the main messages of "Yahoo! Answers" users who, as of Wednesday, had posted a total of 151 comments in response to the question: "How should new ministerial salary be calculated?" Netizens also called for more transparency in compensation and benefits received by ministers, and a review of officials' pension scheme (liyana, Yahoo!Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 10:49:56 GMTPAP MP for Tampines GRC Irene Ng has put up banners all over her ward, as well as A4-sized notices at lifts, asking residents to 'like' her Facebook. The pathetic and hilarious attempt by Ms Ng to 'engage' netizens was discovered by 2 TR readers living in Tampines who tipped us off on FB.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 09:53:21 GMTMG [NS] Chan Chun Sing said he will be meeting students 'from all walks of life' Friday to discuss housing policies. It was only last week the Minister had his 1st town hall session.. (StraitsTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 09:47:13 GMTSo what if PAP govt had scrapped the Radio & TV Licenses.. gaining little money and only collected once a year.. While new brainchild of PAP to collect money from S'poreans is using Island-wide ERP. There is no need to consult the people or have any parliament debates because Opposition only have 6 seats (SSPT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 09:39:26 GMTSmearing of Nicole Seah over online fund raising continues in the state media.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 09:28:49 GMTReform agenda can backslide unless free speech and human rights entrenched [SGEP Editor: Don't miss Readers' Responses]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 09:17:44 GMTThe article refers to a private group practice in U.S., but I think it's just an example of human nature at work, and the experience is universal and applies not only to medical practices but any other profession where contribution and renumeration are not consciously and regularly managed, and of course, society at large (SingaporeMD)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 09:13:15 GMT[Letter to Soon Chow] Dear Soon Chow: Thanks for coming to my first MPS and giving me the opportunity.. (FB)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 09:06:42 GMT[A Referendum on the Ministerial Pay] An ideal way of determining the degree of ministerial salaries cut is by a referendem. This is such a heated topic, and of such intense interest to the public, that it is of fundamental importance for the people to be involved in the final determination of the degree of cuts in ministerial salaries.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 08:57:14 GMTTNP's Melvin Singh continues to 'smear' Opposition tacitly.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 05:28:55 GMTThe figure should be higher. Even road-sweepers whom I have spoken to know that! For instance, The New Paper hailed PAP's victory in the GE with the bold caption "Hurray PAP". It's difficult to build a cohesive nation when the majority distrust the govt-controlled media (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 05:26:36 GMTIt is economic growth that holds S'pore together, that ensures we have a say in ASEAN and beyond. In the dog-eat-dog world of international politics, poor beggars will be ripped to shreds. PAP rule has taken us where none of our neighbouring countries have ventured. And I'm grateful (Ng Zhong Ming - NewNation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 04:32:32 GMTSDP visited the block to offer their support and help to the residents. Along with the SDP team was Dr Leong Yan Hoi who is also on SDP's panel of healthcare advisors. Lawyer Mr M Ravi, who had met SDP representatives earlier, addressed the legal perspective of the incident (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 04:14:25 GMTThe majority of people inadvertently and unwittingly adjoin the terms "Mandatory Death Penalty" and "The Death Penalty" together. This misunderstanding of these terms serve to alienate those who feel that the Death Penalty, while extremely archaic, is still necessary to facilitate the rule of law against certain criminal offences (David King, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 03:47:48 GMTDespite winning 81 out of 87 seats in parliament, PAP has recognised the need to reconnect with the local population. However, based on social media sentiments, this looks to be an increasingly hard task. S'pore is growing into a true democracy, and freedom of speech is finally here. So how will S'pore's political system and economy change in the next 5 years? (Raymond Tham, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 03:46:23 GMTREACH has failed chiefly because the ruling party has done little more than let it be a sounding board for the people. PAP MP Zaqy Mohamad puts it best, but still mildly, when he said, "to have all Govt communications only go through REACH is very difficult because online space is so diverse" (Howard Lee, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 03:31:20 GMTMP Irene Ng labels Opposition MPs as 'troublemakers' (FB - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 03:11:51 GMTSIAS has called for the strict regulation of land banking investments, after hundreds of investors here filed complaints against British firm Profitable Plots (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 02:06:14 GMTHow could a CEO whose tasks are mainly administrative and decision making justify a $500k or $1m salary a month? Oh, his decision involves millions and billions. The other justification is always the market. Let market forces decide (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 01:51:56 GMTHon Sui Sen's daughter chides Catherine Limhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 01:39:56 GMTLTA will fund 4 parties with $1 million each "to design, develop and demonstrate technological solutions" for a new system to charge motorists not only for where they travel to, but also for distances they clock getting there. So will this satellite tracking system be a repeat of history, another Everyday-Rob-People exercise? ...it is no coincidence the new guy in charge has a moniker that sounds like Ptui! Tuck Yew! (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 01:32:32 GMT[Letter from Peter Loon Seng Chee: If we were to give top pay aligned with some of the top earners in the private sector, then we should also set same high-level KPI for them]. [Letter from Daniel Koh Kah Soon: Public service not business] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 01:14:13 GMT[If we had known his employment history...] There is no doubt foreign workers' interests need to be taken care of, but MOM can do more to help protect employers' interests too. With a new minister at its head, perhaps this is a good time to look into improving the system (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 01:07:45 GMTWhen it comes to the elderly poor, has the message of self-reliance been overstretched? [Kalyani K Mehta is Assoc Prof and Head of Gerontology Program at UniSIM] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 01:03:28 GMTThe elderly now must contend with a fast-changing society and can no longer seek a haven in old traditions, many of which have been overthrown. More of the elderly also now live apart from their children (China Daily)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 01:00:41 GMTThe results of a 3-1/2-year effort -- revamping a law that will have implications for companies and their directors -- are now in the hands of the Finance Ministry. Prof Walter Woon, tasked to oversee the recommendations to the Companies Act, gave a sneak peek of how small companies and their shareholders, for instance, are likely to benefit (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 00:54:17 GMTA spate of corporate scandals involving S-Chips has brought the issue to the fore in recent times. But with many of the alleged fraud perpetrators based in China as directors or executive officers, Prof Mak Yuen Teen wondered: "We don't have an extradition treaty with China, we can't bring these people to face trial. So even if you can form a judgment, can you pursue them?" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 00:47:59 GMTForeign buyers accounted for 16 per cent of private home purchases in S'pore in Q1 this year. S'poreans' share of private property purchases fell to 67 per cent (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 00:42:44 GMT[Increasing Consultation And Heightening Transparency] The challenge now is to put rhetoric into action (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 25 May 2011 00:15:37 GMTThe middle-aged brain is not as nimble as it used to be because of all the stress it has endured, a study released Tuesday showed. U.S. researchers said stress causes nerve cells in a part of the brain needed for learning to shrink and lose plasticity -- the ability to quickly form connections called synapses (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 23:22:47 GMTNone of this would have been possible had it not been that the Opposition has finally come of age. Though a measly 6 out of 87 seats is nothing to crow about, one needs to look beyond the election results and consider the larger context in order to appreciate the nature of this breakthrough (Nigel Tan, Chief Editor, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 23:03:19 GMT[Breach of Political Donations Act?] If Miss Nicole Seah's method of political fund-raising is in contravention of the Act, then it is incumbent upon the relevant authority to initiate investigations (ST Forum - Online only)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 22:55:18 GMT[Water tank issue: Apply 'mother' test] I am most concerned about response of town council and the relevant authorities... residents were told only that maintenance work was being done, and water supply would cease... should have immediately gone door to door and told residents water should not be consumed until further notice (Ong Chiew Leong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 22:48:43 GMT[Minister capable of showing empathy] I WOULD like to relate a personal anecdote about MG (NS) Chan Chun Sing... This is the measure of the man who is our new minister (Samuel Wong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 22:37:24 GMTDPMr Teo Chee Hean confirmed salary review committee headed by Mr Gerard Ee will not examine civil servants' pay, but instead focus on political appointment holders (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 22:32:15 GMTTHE ministerial pay review should not be extended to the civil service. The job of a civil servant is just like any other job in the private sector: Workers are rewarded based on their merits and contributions. People do not necessarily join the civil service because they want to serve the community; it is more of a profession (Victor Looi)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 22:27:34 GMT[Pay review should cover civil servants] While top civil servants are doing a job and it is fair they aspire towards career promotion, they are also there to serve the larger good of S'pore. It would therefore be fair to suggest their salaries be scrutinised in a similar manner to that for their political bosses (Ng Kheng Liang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 22:24:29 GMT...There's A 72% Chance He Or She Cheated On You (businessinsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 15:58:57 GMTThe 2 main arguments for high salaries -- a corrupt-free govt and the recruitment of top talent -- should not apply anymore. Anti-corruption is a trait that is embedded in a S'porean's DNA. As for top talent, well, high salaries may not be a big draw after all. Look at the new PAP candidates inducted this time round (P N Balji, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 14:00:39 GMT1 in 2 says Singapore media is biasedhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 12:04:30 GMTFrom Greenwich Village to the Beijing Workers' Stadium, we salute the genius of Dylan. Happy birthday, Bob! (GuardianUK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 12:02:00 GMTThe Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Asian University Rankings for 2011 are out.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 11:57:51 GMTMore than anyone else, SDP has consistently called for a reduction in ministerial wages. We have done this in every issue of our newspaper, The New Democrat, in our videos, in our manifesto "It's About You", in our "Shadow Budget 2011", and countless times on this website.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 11:55:15 GMTCivil service pay to be reviewed next? [lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 11:50:12 GMTThe ruling PAP is touting changes since its poor showing in May polls, with former mentor minister Lee Kuan Yew stepping down. While Lee oversaw the Lion City's independence and transformation from a backwater to a financial hub, discontent with his authoritarian style is seen as worsening divides between PAP and a more politically and socially aware younger generation (AsiaTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 11:41:46 GMTAs they battled the sweltering heat under the void decks, WP MPs for Aljunied GRC in Eunos, Paya Lebar and Serangoon met their residents for the first time (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 11:15:43 GMTPAP MP Irene Ng posted on her FB a comment about media coverage at WP's first MPS last night. Ms Ng's comment insinuated media attention given was unwarranted. In just 3 hours, the comment drew over 30 responses, most of which negative (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 11:03:11 GMTWP weekly void deck party...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 04:58:26 GMTThe following are the newly minted members of the Singapore Parliament Tail-Coaters' Club [Short cut to Singapore Parliament relying on a Senior candidate, usually a PAP Cabinet Minister, to enter Singapore Parliament) SSPThttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 03:44:23 GMTFlirty texts, secret liaisons in a hotel... and the sordid truth behind that family man image (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 03:35:50 GMTSingapore to review officials' pay.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 03:32:26 GMTThe Indians shall be very proud of their finance talents and their achievements, especially Tharman, who is widely tipped as the next minority PM of Singapore (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 03:06:23 GMTJob search experience of a masters degree graduatehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 02:58:10 GMTA poll conducted by IPS certainly surprised me. According to a govt-controlled ST report on the results of the poll "Most also agree S'pore should have a powerful leader who can run the Govt as he thinks fit". And everybody knows IPS is part of the Establishment (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 02:11:26 GMT[Poll: Half of S'poreans found the media biased] The figure rose to 60 percent for younger S'poreans aged 21 to 39 years old, as compared to only 42 percent among those aged 60 and above.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 02:04:10 GMTPresident Nathan said the recent recession, in which the govt for the 1st time sought his office's approval to draw on reserves, has validated need for S'pore to have strong national reserves. Juz taking into account monies managed by GIC, and Temasek's funds, our reserves then were at least $470.3bn. This means only 1% were used to fund the recession budget (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 01:53:19 GMTDPM Teo may have forgotten about Tan Yong Soon the Perm-Sec, but lesser mortals have not. A day after Gerard Ee said he will do away with the top secret formula that benchmarks minister's pay to the private sector, Teo quickly shot up his hand ("kee chiu'!) to object .. service salaries are outside the scope of the review panel.. "this current review is focused on political appointment holders." That last emphasis was a personal message for Gerard Ee and his review panel (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 01:36:43 GMTMPs are elected by the people to serve the people and solve their problems. If civil servants are entitled to proper office space, why can't elected representatives of the people be entitled to one as well? It is pathetic to see the people meeting their MPs in void decks which are not meant for such purposes. Would there be a mindset change? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 01:25:26 GMTVice-President Xi Jinping meets Singapore's former PM Lee Kuan Yewhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 01:12:55 GMTFirst MPS [May 23, 2011] I've been looking forward to this evening...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 01:05:43 GMTThey [the residents] have signed a petition for the tank to be changed. Some must have found this request too sensitive and unreasonable. What the authority fails to understand is the emotional, religious and psychological part of the affected residents. This cannot be easily explained away. Finally it was reported last night that the water tank will be removed (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 00:52:55 GMTNot what I was told by insurers (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 00:29:13 GMT[Kaya toast lowers S'pore's productivity, part 1] The issue here is S'pore's dismal productivity, for which this is 1 of 2 articles. This 1st one takes a snapshot of the issue at a micro level from an experience many of us share -- eating out at a foodcourt. In Part 2, I will discuss this from a macro perspective.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 00:14:28 GMTAlex Au: "As public space moves into digital sphere, so must Govt's engagement move into digital sphere. I'm glad to note the old paradigm under which Govt dismissed conversations online as irrelevant or unimportant is now reversed." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 00:11:01 GMTIn the aftermath of the GE, one observation made is that grassroots who provided vital link between top echelon of PAP and constituents had painted a rosy picture of S'poreans stoically accepting effects of national policies. In my 40 years of service, any visit to a school by MOE official was almost always an exercise in putting up a show to impress the VIPs (Letter from Ho Kong Loon, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 24 May 2011 00:00:14 GMTIn 2002 after a similar breach, the authorities assured us there was "watertight security for water tanks". I was not satisfied because a friend had told me he had seen workers jumping into water tanks to bathe. I then wrote to the Govt.. Apparently my suggestion was not taken seriously, otherwise how could an ordinary cleaner gain access to the water tank to dump a dead body inside? (Letter from Chia Hern Keng, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 23:53:17 GMTI refer to recent spot checks on bus service schedules conducted by MP Lim Biow Chuan. I had highlighted to PTC previously.. but the complaints were referred to respective bus companies as a customer-service issue. PTC should be more pro-active in carrying out unannounced audits like what Mr Lim had done (Letter from Raymund Koh Joo Guan, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 23:47:10 GMT[Reviewing ministerial salaries: Pay still a factor in drawing top talent] No matter how much is said that politics is about serving S'pore, attractive wages remain a motivational factor for high-fliers in different sectors to enter public service. We cannot compare our PM's pay with that of leaders of large countries.. the intangible benefits of holding political office far outweigh the salaries they receive.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 23:20:42 GMT[Reviewing ministerial salaries: Attracting talent] I disagree with MP Lee Bee Wah's concern that adjusting pay will affect Govt's ability to attract good people into politics. If people like WP MP Chen Show Mao can make great sacrifices to join the Opposition, there is hope that good people will be attracted to politics for the right reasons (Tan Ho Gian, and 3 other letters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 23:12:28 GMT[Reviewing ministerial salaries: Public and private sectors are different] While I applaud the move to review ministerial pay, there are 2 points I would like to make: The work and objective of the private sector are entirely different from those of public service... The use of the term 'political service' may be misleading (Vivien Goh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 23:06:56 GMT[Becoming First World people] It is heartening to see PAP making changes. It is also encouraging to see WP's commitment. Having made all these demands on our politicians, have S'poreans asked themselves what they bring to the table? What about becoming First World people? (Jonathan Toh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 22:38:19 GMT[large photos] A deadly spring continued in the American South and Midwest as more tornadoes cut swaths of destruction through Missouri and Minnesota (TheBigPicture)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 17:56:03 GMTA British politician defied a court order Monday by identifying Manchester United's Ryan Giggs as the soccer star fighting a legal battle to prevent newspapers from publishing allegations of an affair (DailyMail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 17:47:54 GMTSDP will pay a visit to residents of Blk 686B, Drive 73 at Woodlands this evening.. will look into possibility of helping residents with legal remedies if need arises.. will also be on hand to help them demand greater security measures. Transparency about how these measures are put in place will also be discussed and canvassed with the residents.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 17:36:38 GMTSDP stands in solidarity with the residents of Block 686B in these most trying of circumstances and we will continue to speak up for them. We will visit residents soon to find out what the consequences are in terms of their health, and what measures have been taken to ensure their future safety.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 17:29:28 GMTI look forward to the day when my patriotism and love for this country is no longer measured by the way I voted by my fellow citizens of this country, the way a democrat or republican in the U.S. is not questioned about his loyalty to the state (Elaine Ong, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 17:13:40 GMTSo how much should PM Lee and his PAP "A-team" be paid? (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 15:32:05 GMTThis problem has not come to a head because of the one-party rule we've had since independence (Andy Loh, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 15:21:50 GMTFor politicians who have not yet gotten on the social media bandwagon... With these 5Cs, politicians can more effectively master social media as an engagement tool (Ryan Lim, NewNation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 15:11:58 GMTA couple of interesting revelations have arisen after the GE this year. These are worth pursuing in the interest of transparency (Article14)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 15:00:25 GMTThey say the newly sworn-in Cabinet is expected to carry out extensive review of current housing policies. This may include a review of the govt land sales program, and moderating home prices (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 14:20:25 GMTPrinciples from ministerial pay review may be applied to civil service (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 14:14:35 GMTSaving time on Twitter and handling it more efficiently (InspiredMag)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 14:05:40 GMTThe IPO of LinkedIn has triggered warnings about a new internet bubble. The business was valued at US$11.6 billion, and its shares closed up 109 percent on launch day. It is worth remembering that the internet or dot.com bubble ran from roughly 1995 until it burst spectacularly in 2000.. (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 13:58:53 GMTIn the end, the only thing PAP understands is the crack of the whip on their well-fed posteriors. No amount of writing or complaining or reasoned argument could convince them to change clearly wrong-headed policies. But punish them at the polls, and they jump to obey (finally) the people. Well, sort of. It is not enough. It is far from enough... (theowlcritic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 13:55:29 GMTPM Lee's decision to set up a committee to review ministers' salaries shows his willingness to adapt again. This isn't 1st time he is trying to help his PAP make up for lost ground after an election setback. Belt up for a trip down memory lane.. (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 13:42:44 GMTWP holds first Meet-the-People session (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 13:36:21 GMT[ENOUGH SAID...] After all that writing, it has been nice to shift gears and partner my photojournalist friends to create this visual feast: "GE11: We Were There", a photo magazine commemorating the republic's most inclusive and engaging election ever.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 13:07:29 GMTPilot of Air France flight that crashed into Atlantic 2 years ago was NOT in cockpit when disaster hit, recovered black box reveals (dailymail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 11:53:41 GMTDominique Strauss-Kahn resigns: potential successors as head of IMF (GuardianUK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 11:47:31 GMT[The 'it is policy' approach] I am heartened 2 Cabinet Ministers have addressed concerns of S'poreans on policy-making. As a post-65er and a former junior civil servant who served for 10 years, I would like to share my thoughts on why there might be some form of "resentment" among voters, as some ministers have noted (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 11:42:25 GMTI read Sebastian Ng's letter [May 18] on the "It is policy" approach and felt compelled to write this. I teach CRM at various corporations here and abroad and "it is policy" is clearly understood to be the forbidden response to any enquiry from customers (Letter from Andrew James Ong, TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 11:39:30 GMTHome Team to use Command Leadership framework to help identify and develop future leaders (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 11:35:46 GMTNicole Seah: "I am unfazed by the baseless accusations."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 11:31:46 GMT[Fears spark selling on stock markets] My gut feel tells me the Europeans are in for big trouble but not today, next week or next month, it will eventually come but later. They, like the Americans, will buy some time, buy some hope, and just kick the can further down the road...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 11:23:14 GMTI refer to the articles "Tharman open to ideas, say economists" and "Big change, great expectations" (Leong Sze Hian, Alex Lew - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 10:17:41 GMTI refer to the article "Improve affordability, accessibility and adequacy of healthcare" (Leong Sze Hian, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 10:16:06 GMTAs about half a dozen Ministers have said PAP needs to be transformed, I would like to make the following suggestions to review HDB's policies... I would like to urge and call upon all public housing stakeholders to work with and support our new MND Minister, Mr Khaw Boon Wan, to reform our public housing (Leong Sze Hian, Alex Lew - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 10:02:42 GMTMassive astroturfing in ST Forum blaming 'Gen Y' for PAP's performance in GE2011.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 08:16:17 GMTOne name tripping off agile tongues is Tharman Shanmugaratnam, finance minister of S'pore who is now deputy PM too. He does not have Christine Lagarde [of France, the clear frontrunner]'s star power, but I'm told he is smart, articulate and forceful, and people in Washington, DC speak of him highly (TheEconomist)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 07:53:32 GMTThe appointment of Chairman should be someone who is not only independent but must be seen as independent. An impartial and independent Review Committee is necessary to serve up a recommendation that is relatively more objective and appropriate for those in political office. There will be less doubts and controversies than what it is now (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 07:42:13 GMT[Nicole Seah's fund raising] Under the Political Donation Act, it is LEGAL for candidates to solicit donations under their names. The main concern is why personal bank account has been used instead of Party bank account. First of all, Nicole is soliciting funds for her candidacy in Marine Parade. She is also trying to get funding for her whole Marine Parade Team.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 07:24:21 GMT[Nicole Seah Funding Donation Issue] S'poreans have to realise that funding is absolutely crucial to partake in politics. They expect Opposition to perform well in the hustings but grumble over poor logistics and planning, not realising that funds are key factor.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 07:19:21 GMTWow, this is the 1st time I actually interviewed someone. I usually decline offer for interviewing people cause I'm not a journalist. I'm not trained to do it. But how can I reject the offer to interview the legendary Mr Yam Ah Mee? (Dee Kay Dot As Gee dk.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 04:01:51 GMTNo one needs to be surprised by the composition of the salary review panel.. a public relations exercise to assuage public outrage. Some may decry this cynicism. But remember, all ruling parties are self-serving, and bent on perpetuating their rule. And the ruling party here is very consistent in this respect (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 03:41:56 GMT[Are foreign workers using our drinking water to bathe and wash up after sex?] I was going to do a blog posting on PM Lee's cutting of Minister salaries. However what happened below is so shockingly disgusting that I feel compelled to blog about it first.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 03:21:27 GMTIt may be instructional for policy makers and S'poreans to study the history of the formation of the huge and long Japanese property bubble, its burst [20 years and still going on], its after effects, and learn a few lessons.. (Chua Soon Hock, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 03:16:56 GMTIn America, they are called "talking heads." Like mushrooms feasting on a rotting tree trunk, transport analysts are coming out of the woodwork to salvage the collateral damage that is outgoing Transport Minister Raymond Lim. According to them, the problem started way before Lim took over on 30 May 2006. He only began to screw up royally after that fateful day (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 01:53:36 GMTIt's Mr Goh now, says ESM.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 01:45:02 GMT'Forget politics, what is the job worth?' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 00:10:20 GMTCharles Chong, MP for Joo Chiat: "Cost of living, inflation, healthcare costs impact retirees more - many of them told me they are living off their savings, and I agree with them the definition of the needy is too simplistic." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 23 May 2011 00:04:10 GMTThe delicate [and mammoth] task of managing expectations (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 23:59:37 GMTIn post-elections note, we highlighted a raised HDB income eligibility cap and slower immigration and population growth will be detrimental for property stocks. We reiterate our negative view on property. We downgraded S'pore market from 'overweight' to 'neutral' on 3 points.. We retain this view (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 23:41:19 GMT[Into the minefield of ministerial salaries] You would notice there is no one in the committee who is a political scientist, who can advise on what citizens expect of political office-bearers. There was no reference to political salaries in other countries. Yet, this was exactly the comparison S'poreans have been applying for years, with increasing rancour.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 23:28:22 GMT"I was very impressed by an unusual phenomenon in M'sia in the 1970s when Dr Tan Chee Khoon, an Opposition leader, was appointed chairman of University of Malaya Council. I hope all our parliamentarians who have something valuable to contribute can be fully made use of in our govt regardless of their party backgrounds" (Dr Ong Siew Chey, STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 23:26:17 GMT[Are we becoming a nation of complaint kings?] The older generation enjoyed much progress from an iron-fist style of govt. We trusted our leaders to make the right decisions. We stayed united and swallowed bitter pills. The younger generation.. are clearly rebellious, disrespectful, ungrateful and ungracious towards our respectable, world-class leaders (Alice Chong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 23:20:14 GMTI agree with Mr Charles Tan's advice ['Don't go the populist way']. Remember, 60 per cent of people voted for you and your policies; don't swing your policies to wow vocal minority and take support of silent majority for granted. Differentiate between noise and real concerns; we rely on your experienced ears not to be confused. Our younger generation has become soft and would complain about anything and everything (Andrew Tan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 22:41:43 GMT[A true agent of political change] Looking back on our short electoral history, when the Opposition won a then unprecedented 4 seats in 1991, the then PM responded by implementing what some considered to be an unconscionable policy... PM Lee could have responded likewise. However, he chose to listen to the ground - and his heart (Dr Huang Shoou Chyuan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 22:37:53 GMT[Instead of foreign talent...] Try attracting overseas S'poreans and former S'poreans who wish to give back (Shirley Woon, also 2 other letters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 22:33:57 GMT[Taiwanese Current Affairs on S'pore...] Extensive coverage of everything - our political system, defence, Ho Ching, COE etc. The good, the bad and the ugly.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 22:27:40 GMTIf another economic downturn strikes, the impact on Asia will be mixed. Economists said economies such as S'pore, Taiwan and HK will likely see a sharper correction in GDP growth (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 22:24:18 GMTNow that earnings season is almost over, quieter times are in for the Straits Times Index [STI] this week (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 22:19:20 GMTI refer to MG (NS) Chan Chun Sing's call for young artists to "paint some nice murals on the bland walls at the void decks". In July last year, after the case of graffiti on our MRT, I had written a letter published in Today making a similar call.. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 21:45:22 GMT[PM Lee : Nothing's sacrosanct in Govt review of policies...] PAP's change is off to a powerful symbolic start with revision of ministers' pay and I strongly believe they are sincere. There is, however, plenty to undo or redo, and 20 years of going in wrong direction cannot be reformed overnight. Still, I'm encouraged.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 21:36:07 GMTNetizens remain sceptical of a drastic cut to top govt officials' salaries after PM Lee announced the formation of a committee to review S'pore's ministerial pay (ewenboey, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 21:34:24 GMTRP's Response to Setting Up of Committee to Review Ministerial Pay.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 21:29:25 GMTHow the exercise is carried out will be seen as a test case of the govt's commitment to change (.. read full story for free after 6pm - BusinessTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 21:17:25 GMTSigns of a new era in Singapore politics.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 21:09:06 GMTIn pictures - all the drama on the final day of the season (TheGuardian UK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 21:05:03 GMT[Controversy over Nicole Seah's online fund-raising rages on] Once regarded as one of the more objective and balanced online news portals in S'pore, Yahoo News appeared to have slumped to the gutter standards of TNP with a pathetic one-sided piece by Ewen Boey who quoted 2 comments posted by anonymous netizens to give the erroneous public impression that majority of netizens are against Nicole's fund-raising methods..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 14:55:10 GMT[lots of Readers' Comments] Ion Danker, Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 13:20:36 GMTRemember and compare - Goh Keng Sweehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 13:07:28 GMTGourmet Food Trail with Ah Lun - Part 5 of 5http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 11:48:56 GMT[A good start] PM Lee should be commended for highlighting the issue of ministerial salaries in his speech at the Istana. That he chose to do so indicates he is fully aware of the deep disquiet over the issue. And for him to set up the review committee shows he is serious in addressing S'poreans' concerns about it.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 11:11:47 GMTThe Committee to Review Salaries of the President, PM and political appointment holders will have a total of 8 members from the private sector, labor movement, and social sector. The committee will be chaired by Mr Gerard Ee. The 7 other members are... (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 09:50:12 GMTLast Monday, police received a call at 10am when the body of a maid was found in a water tank. Water supply to the block was cut off an hour later. However, residents still consumed water which was residual in the pipes of the affected tank, till as late as 5pm that same day. Why didn't the town council tell them to stop consuming the water immediately? (Ewen Boey, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 09:41:58 GMT[The Might of the People's Power] A discomfited and comical SM Goh had described the issue of ministerial salaries as "Opposition's flogging horse" and said "majority" of the population were not concerned about it. The fact that PM Lee has now decided to form a special committee to review ministerial salaries flies in the face of Emeritus SM's complacent assessment of ground feelings on this issue.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 08:49:22 GMT[S'pore ministers' pay review follows long controversy] PM Lee's decision to set up a committee to review ministers' salaries comes 4 years after the pay package was criticized in parliament by Sylvia Lim. This video shows what she said, speaking as a NCMP (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 08:46:31 GMTMinisterial salaries review committee to adopt very different model (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 06:26:23 GMT[Figures, facts and fallacies] Dear Dr Tan Khee Giap: I refer to your comments on UBS Prices and Earnings Report 2009 which was carried by ST on 3 May 2011. You complained about UBS's understating of percentage of PMETs in S'pore which tended to understate our true average wage (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 06:15:37 GMTMany people are not impressed with choice of Gerard Ee to chair the committee on a review of ministerial pay. With due respect to Gerard Ee, he is seen as an establishment figure. What we need is someone who is seen as truly independent, not someone who shares the same bandwidth (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 06:04:25 GMT[Cracks appear in the S'pore model] A fresh wave of debate on the S'pore model is sweeping China. Is the S'pore model of development really the way to go?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 05:47:36 GMTA day after S'pore's new Cabinet was sworn, Emeritus SM Goh said he has no "hangover" nor the "burden of office" the morning after. He has also requested S'poreans to call him "Mr Goh" on the FB page as he believes everyone on the chat platform are friends (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 04:05:23 GMT[Rail interchange upgraded; transportation issue much wider than that] Solving our transport problem requires creativity and thinking out of the box. It is not enough to throw money at the problem, launching one project after another.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 03:58:06 GMTAt long last, the emperor knew he was naked. After all the years of deception, with his merry men telling him how beautiful his clothes were, he finally knew it was all a lie. That the emperor has spoken, face the music, admit to one's mistakes, and no more thumping down at the people is perhaps a bitter pill to swallow to some. Would there be a new dawn, or the same old morning sun? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 02:28:38 GMT[Malay Singaporean Graduate Left for Melbourne in Search of Jobs] We did an online interview with a Malay Singaporean - Mr Othman - who is currently residing in Melbourne. Below is his reply:-http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 02:14:13 GMTAt the swearing-in ceremony last night, PM Lee said, "Politics is not a job or a career promotion. It is a calling to serve the larger good of Singapore..." It's easy to debunk the "not a career promotion" boast. Just do a quick check of the ministers who have retired, is Yeo Cheow Tong still in same income tax bracket? Will George Yeo find a similar paying job in private sector within next 6 months? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 02:09:21 GMT[Youths at risk] I have met many people over the past 2 months since entering politics. Many have interesting stories to share with me and issues to raise. None is as unforgettable as Miss C, a young lawyer-turned-civil-servant living in Joo Chiat SMC. This blog post is shared with her permission.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 01:52:39 GMTOn 3 May 2011, PM said "sorry". This overshadowed his remarks about his father, remarks that must have been very painful for someone brought up in the Confucian way, a key tenet of which is deference to the elderly (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 01:48:28 GMTIn the aftermath of GE 2011 and the announcement of PM Lee's new Cabinet, one thing which has become clear is that the PAP has become increasingly fearful of young S'poreans (Aurvandil)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 01:21:48 GMTIn his speech at the Cabinet swearing-in ceremony Saturday, PM Lee said: "We will review both the policies and their implementation, as well as our broader approach to tackling these issues.." The Govt will engage S'poreans "in an inclusive dialogue on making policies and governing S'pore." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 22 May 2011 01:15:48 GMT[Greek Economic Troubles...] what is likely to happen is they will kick the can further down the road to deal with a Greek default at a better time, on the assumption that the global economy will eventually recover. However, if something derails the economy...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 22:29:51 GMTTin Pei Ling rapped for 'copying' idea from Opposition manifesto.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 22:05:51 GMT[Infographic] A unique test developed by a group of European scientists to predict life expectancy will go on sale in late 2011 (RiaNovosti)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 21:58:44 GMTIt is naive to think social media marketing doesn't cost a cent. It is free to register for a FB or Twitter account but putting effort to grow your community takes time. And time = money (Willis Wee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 21:54:24 GMTIf not for the brave, 'tak bolen tahan' can't-take- it-anymore 40%... Is it time for us to see SINCERITY replace ARROGANCE and SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS in PAP? Are we there yet? The proof of the pudding is in the eating, and if they don't learn now, they never will (FeedMeToTheFish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 21:49:10 GMTCivil disobedience - bridging the gap between SDP and its newfound supporters.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 17:26:36 GMTA furore has been sparked on the internet over the recent spate of job listings which specifically indicate a preference for foreigners (Lionel Chia, TheSatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 17:14:46 GMTI think it's best to wait and treat WP MPs as we would any other party's MPs - servants, not masters, or rock stars, or demi-gods who are there because of our votes, and who are there to serve us. Certainly, we didn't put them there so we can all bend over, or bow down, or fall over ourselves in worship over their every move, word, action or picture or video! (onesingaporean)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 16:31:14 GMTPM Lee has acknowledged S'poreans' concern about Ministers' salaries, and has formed a committee to review them (lots of Readers' Comments - ewenboey, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 16:20:52 GMTHere's what he had to say: Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, Ladies and Gentlemen (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 16:06:33 GMTI refer to reports of PM Lee's speech on 21 April at the launch of IM Flash S'pore, a joint venture memory chip facility between US tech giants Intel and Micron. Saying that "6 in 10 of the employees are "S'poreans and PRs" could mean just 1 S'porean and 5 PRs (Leong Sze Hian, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 15:46:33 GMTSPEECH BY PM LEE AT THE SWEARING-IN CEREMONY HELD IN THE STATE ROOM, ISTANA ON 21 MAY 2011 (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 15:45:13 GMTThe recent recession, in which the govt for the 1st time sought his office's approval to draw on reserves, has validated the need for S'pore to have strong national reserves. It also showed the need for an effective framework for protecting the reserves, as provided by the system of having Elected President hold a 2nd key (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 15:40:44 GMT[Arab Scholar Applauds move by MM Lee and SM Goh in Conference] Whilst some S'poreans have subscribed to Catherine Lim's interpretation of resignation by MM Lee as "his political demise", foreign observers like Dr. Dahlan have been able to appreciate deeper political import and avant-garde nature of the resignations (Koh Choon Hwee - KentRidgeCommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 14:06:38 GMTIt seems likely that new policies - partially stemming from pressure by the 6 WP members seated in Parliament, who have promised strides towards affordable housing - will be implemented to either lower housing prices significantly, or make it such that struggling families can afford them (Sheena Chua, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 12:42:53 GMTPM said: "The Govt cannot stand still. It must evolve in tandem with our society and our people. That is the best way for our Govt to serve and to govern, in accord with the spirit of the times and the aspirations of our people" (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 12:26:39 GMTChinese tabloid continue to smear NSP Nicole Seah.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 11:48:28 GMTSingaporeans, who made their displeasure over govt policies loud and clear during the May elections, want to see changes to policies. At the top of the list of concerns are rising cost of living, housing, and the govt's seeming arrogance in talking down to S'poreans (Andrew Loh, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 11:28:19 GMTThe online pre-election study by Australian company, UMR Research, proved remarkably prescient. It predicted a 6 per cent swing against PAP, forecasting a 61 per cent vote for PAP. How could the predictions be so right? (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 07:45:35 GMTPolice confirms 'investigation' into PAP MP Tin Pei Ling.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 07:36:02 GMTPost GE: What went wrong?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 07:11:35 GMT[A Political Commentary in the Form of a Play] I am absolutely delighted by the tremendous response to my latest commentary on LKY, a response which reflects his unique position in S'pore... I have therefore chosen to write a play about LKY in a fictive setting.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 07:07:33 GMT[lots of Readers' Comments] idanker, Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 07:02:08 GMTI refer to Temasek Holding's letter "Protection of Temasek's past reserves". If this is the foreplay of "transformation", I think we may yet have a long way to go, to attain the highest standards of disclosure, transparency and accountability that S'poreans may now expect from a Govt that keeps saying that it wants to 'transform' itself (Leong Sze Hian, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 06:42:14 GMTInjecting new blood in order to ensure that leaders can better connect and engage with the younger generation may not necessarily be wise.. I find it downright dispiriting to have to worry that S'pore may cease to be a welcoming home once one reaches the end of one's productive shelf-life (Marietta Koh, ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 06:40:05 GMTWith tears and emotions flowing freely, he told ST in an exclusive interview Friday of the tough decision to leave his Hougang stronghold for a GRC as memories of his 20 years as Hougang MP came flooding back (ewenboey, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 05:52:43 GMT[Election shocker, now a Cabinet cracker] PM Lee said the changes reflect a need to engage the young, who became a major force in the elections. Now that the Cabinet changes have been announced, there is an even taller task ahead: the transformation of the ruling party, which defeated Foreign Minister spoke about.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 05:40:16 GMTTNP smears Nicole Seah for soliciting for funds on her Facebook.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 04:32:23 GMTDear ST: I refer to 7 May 2011 letter. Mr Ang Wu Chye questions if we have been treating our parents well, keeping our parks clean, adopting a happy and contented mindset and appreciating our parks and gardens? Many of our problems are caused by inappropriate or inadequate national policies. If we treat our parents well, will HDB flats become more affordable? If we keep the parks clean, will transport become better? (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 04:26:16 GMTNg Kok Lim rebuts the PAP team... (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 04:19:41 GMTCatherine Lim still can't believe the fuss she caused. The idea that she helped provoke a quiet revolution in this city-state - one that 17 years later has shaken the ruling PAP to its foundations - reduces the pixyish 68-year-old to shoulder-shaking giggles (MARK MacKINNON, Globe and Mail)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 03:32:21 GMT'Everything that needs to be looked at will be looked at,' said BG (NS) Tan Chuan-Jin. This includes 2 controversial issues: high ministerial salaries, and the use of upgrading as an electoral carrot (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 03:27:08 GMTWe are at a threshold of a new incoming tide, and a receding old tide refusing to go away. Who will triumph in this tussle for power and change, and how long will it take? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 03:14:53 GMTThe numbers are very significantly lower. Between 2007/2009, there were fewer than 10 a year, compared to an average of 27-28 executions a year between 1999/2003, and 76 in 1994. Life imprisonment is too good for these criminals, our compatriots say. It's also an utter waste of state resources feeding the low-life. Hang them! And yet, something changed. It was international pressure wasn't it? Yeah, it works.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 03:03:53 GMTIn 2009, S'pore had a recession, but property prices rose. Specifically in a recession year, prices of HDB resale flats rose 8.2%. This showed there was a massive inbalance between supply and demand, so much so that despite a recession there was a demand for housing (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 02:58:28 GMT[large photos] TheBigPicturehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 02:30:17 GMTA visit to Shaolin (YouTube)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 02:26:59 GMTWhy property prices will fall soon... (?)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 02:08:59 GMT"What do you do for a living?" Like everything else, there are pros and cons of holding a freelance job. Interestingly, freelancing has gained significant popularity in the past decade boosted largely by the quest for flexible working hours (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 02:06:48 GMTWe refer to letter from Mr Tan Teck Wee, "Are reflective window films really a nuisance?" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 01:51:39 GMTSome blue-chip S'pore companies - including SingTel and SIA - have been giving out hefty dividends lately in what analysts say may be the beginning of a longer term trend... to boost trade volumes and share prices (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 01:47:46 GMTThe key pillars of estate planning.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 01:43:44 GMTThe Internet is an extraordinarily powerful tool. But the ease with which we now communicate, the efficiencies we take for granted, can give us a false sense of how easy it is to follow through on some of these changes. Online, if you do not like the rules, you can simply leave and form a new community. Offline, you need to stay and help to change the rules for everyone (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 01:37:31 GMTMND will announce Friday the formation of new towns, 14 days after publication of GE results (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 01:31:52 GMTWhen it comes to taking part in political activities, town council employees may not have anything in black-and-white to go by, except to be mindful of how they are viewed in their workplace. "Town councils are headed by MPs who are elected in a political process. It's therefore difficult to see town council as non-political. Involvement of staff in political activities must logically and realistically be viewed in that context. We are, after all, a PAP town council." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 01:28:02 GMT"Tell people the truth about every policy choice. That's the way we sustain our credibility over the long term, and it's the long-term interests of S'poreans that have to be foremost in our minds. We got to listen before we formulate... not just listen and then think about it and decide what we want to do... but listen, and then get back to people and refine ideas in that process." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 00:42:51 GMT[Top litigator, and now S'pore's top diplomat] "In litigation, a good lawyer who really has his client's interests at heart, will not advise a fight in every case. In foreign policy, the best approach is to identify your interests, and also identify your counterparts' interests (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 00:32:32 GMTThe former Army chief said the Govt should tap on the energy of the youth going forward, adding that his experience in the Army will come in handy when engaging them (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 00:27:02 GMT[Rename airport after MM Lee] Let us take this opportunity to rename Changi Airport "Lee Kuan Yew International Airport" - an apt choice to highlight his vision and leadership. Honour him while he is still with us (Stanley Lee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 00:08:32 GMT[Local filmmakers should showcase legacy of MM Lee, SM Goh] The retirement of MM Lee and SM Goh from the Cabinet signifies the passing of an era... preserve legacy in the S'pore Story and ensure younger S'poreans continue to appreciate what these 2 eminent leaders have done for our city state (Chan Cheng Lin)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 21 May 2011 00:04:00 GMT[Keeping values] I am saddened by retirements of MM Lee and SM Goh. S'poreans don't seem to understand loyalty, and they forget past achievements easily (Baskaran Sivanandam)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 23:58:20 GMT[A precious legacy] Mr Lee Kuan Yew is a politician extraordinaire. What if there had been no Lee Kuan Yew? (Anthony Oei)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 23:54:27 GMT[A graceful society is made of grateful people] I felt compelled to write when I read about retirement of MM Lee and other ministers. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Mr Lee and his team, who faithfully led our country through ups and downs to this day (Corinne Lo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 23:51:24 GMT[S'pore ushers in a new dawn] With MM Lee opting to stay out of the new Cabinet, PM Lee can now lead the island as his own man (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 23:38:16 GMTMany netizens defended their preferred political party with such anger, abuse and sarcasm that it was hard to believe they were educated and from affluent First World S'pore. Even the obviously friendly PM Lee was not spared. Netizens, seemingly youngsters, showed him disrespect and some were even rude (Jolly Wee - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 23:28:35 GMTOne reason for the nation making it to where it is today was the hard but pragmatic policies of our founding fathers which required the support and sacrifices of the people.. I hope our leaders will not resort to populist measures which are myopic and do not serve the interests of S'pore in the long term (Charles Tan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 23:22:06 GMT[Groupthink?: What about WP candidates??] Dear Straits Times: I refer to 6 May 2011 letter by Mr Toh Cheng Seong (trulysingapore )http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 23:12:52 GMT[WP's decision underlines value of NCMP scheme] The decision by WP to accept NCMP seats - after its leaders' burning opposition to the scheme before the GE... I sincerely hope it will extinguish its rage against the scheme for good. Toward a First World Parliament in deed, not just in words (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 23:07:39 GMTPolitical editor Chua Lee Hoong implies loss of Aljunied GRC was a loss for S'poreans. I beg to differ. It was a loss for PAP, not S'poreans. GE 2011 was a watershed not only because WP made a breakthrough in a GRC but also because... Thus, going forward, S'poreans benefit from GE 2011 because we know now that PAP does not have a monopoly on good people or policies. Contrary to beliefs propagated by PAP... (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 22:59:13 GMT[A council of elder statesmen] Instead of having ad hoc political appointments of senior advisors to key corporations, I would humbly recommend that a permanent Council of Elder Statesmen be created to serve the essential economic objectives of our nation (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 21:34:49 GMTThat was the day I stopped bragging about my country as a developed, First World, democratic nation (Kirsten Han)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 21:27:03 GMT...[this day, 24 years ago], a group of social workers was arrested by the authorities under ISA for allegedly plotting to topple the govt through a "Marxist conspiracy". No charges were ever brought against them, and they were never tried in open court. TOC devoted a full one week in May 2009 highlighting various aspects of the arrests. Here are the articles and reports from that focus week (Andrew Loh, TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 21:12:58 GMTI feel compelled to write in after reading your article, "GM of Jurong TC is MD of its contractor for managing township services", dated 16 May 2011 (SSPT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 13:35:54 GMTHave all MPs elect the cabinet ministers, and make this an annual affair. Since MPs will engage the cabinet minister in parliament on policy making and ministry specific issues, they will be in a good position to judge which parliamentarian is in the best position to lead the ministry (NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 12:40:45 GMTThank goodness S'pore's DPM and Finance Minister Tharman has no wish to be MD of IMF. S'pore needs him. Yes, he would have had the honour of being 1st Asian to head IMF. But IMF chief has no diplomatic immunity. And IMF pays less than S'pore govt (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 11:39:05 GMTIn an exclusive interview with CNA on his new post, Mr Shanmugam said he is "starting from a clean slate"... he wouldn't have accepted the role of Foreign Affairs Minister if he thought he could not do the job (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 11:09:57 GMT"I accept responsibility for unhappiness" [lots of Readers' Comments] Alicia Wong, Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 09:58:28 GMT[Tip for the PAP: Build a church] To win the next generation of voters, it needs to do something it has sucked at doing: Getting emotional.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 04:21:07 GMT[Time to go beyond complaining] The Cabinet changes are a positive outcome of the elections, and the new Parliament holds promise. As citizens, we are not outside of the arena. So yes, it is time to go beyond just complaining and step up and help drive S'pore forward. There are various ways to go about being involved, which I shall leave for everyone to highlight and to discuss.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 03:45:05 GMT[Govt's social-media challenge] The recent GE has taught the Govt that social media cannot be excluded in reaching out to the ground (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 03:41:16 GMT[Goodbye, My Friends] This is my last blog as the Health Minister. I am determined to make housing and HDB S'poreans' popular icon again. Please help me, my friends.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 03:31:53 GMTThe appointment of cabinet ministers by PM Lee raises some troubling questions about the way the Govt continues to operate. These questions centre around the stepping down of [3] former ministers which came as a bolt from out of the blue. It is not so much their exclusion from the cabinet than the way their sackings/resignations was conducted that should concern S'poreans (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 02:27:58 GMT[A Radical Cabinet Reshuffle For the Better] At this juncture, PM Lee shows he is not afraid to take a critical look at themselves. He is his own man now. It is the correct thing to do, and I salute PM for this radical brave move for change. We S'poreans must now put aside our political differences and work together towards building a better home for all. And I believe we can.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 02:20:20 GMTNg Kok Lim rebuts... (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 01:55:39 GMTShould Our PM Step Down Also?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 01:34:10 GMT[Curing the patient with engineers] The problem for PAP is that.. When they were deciding on their new candidates, the party was looking for renewal, not reform. Now, they discover that the catchword is reform. But they had not really been looking for reformists. It's as if they had spent all their time recruiting engineers, only to find that they now need doctors. For the next 5 years.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 01:30:57 GMTThey say a white lie is a minor or unimportant lie, especially one uttered in the interests of tact or politeness. In PM's press conference announcing his new cabinet line up, there was no shortage of examples. Abraham Lincoln said this in the 1860s, "You may fool all the people some of the time.." You don't have to be very old to recognise the truism here (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 01:18:53 GMT[Old Soldier takes the final bow] After decades in the political ring, the combative fighter has lost touch with reality as S'pore wakes up to a new dawn (FreeMalaysiaToday)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 01:11:39 GMTUnanswered questions on ministers' pay [Writer's letter to TODAY Voices was rejected for publication] TOChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 01:07:04 GMTEvening walk at Macpherson - 18 May 2011 (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 01:03:38 GMTThe parameters used to determine what is affordable housing should be discarded, as it is a wicked way to enslave our young to a home that is no bigger than a shoe box. 2-income families are destructive in many ways for bringing up children and building a home (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 01:00:53 GMTWe refer to HDB's response to our analysis ["Explaining the differences in flat resale prices in Hougang and Aljunied"]. Unfortunately, further analysis was precluded by lack of availability of GIS map layers. Lastly, given WP's electoral victory in Aljunied GRC, we now have a chance to monitor and conclusively test if flats are indeed devalued owing to management by an Opposition party (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 00:51:48 GMT[CABINET CHANGES] The desire to see a more effective govt-people compact requires a govt that does not rule but governs - and governs in ways that exhibit care, transparency and accountability. Here is my wish list.. (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 00:22:12 GMT[CABINET CHANGES] As a 70-year-old S'porean who has been keenly watching the play of politics, I am very excited to see this sea change to a brave new world. Now that the die has been cast and these ministers will be re-assessed within the next 2 years, I feel obliged to remind them of their responsibility to people of S'pore as servant leaders.. (Anthony Goh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 00:16:59 GMT[Clean, fresh start] If I was moved when PM Lee apologised during the GE, I am absolutely over the moon now with the new Cabinet line up (Anand Vathiyar, and 3 other letters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 00:12:22 GMT[The debt we owe MM Lee] The list goes on. Thank You, Mr Lee (Wu Yew Fei)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 20 May 2011 00:07:35 GMTIt seems to me buying car insurance does not protect the rights of honest drivers. What I've learnt is that next time, if I accidentally bump another car, I should not report it, and simply deny my existence when they come to my house - then I can walk away without hurting my no-claim discount! (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 23:52:06 GMTWe refer to the letter from Mr Tay Boon Albert (Letter from Mark Lim, Executive Director, General Insurance Association of Singapore - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 23:45:44 GMTRanked as world's 2nd biggest gamblers, S'pore residents lost more on gambling last year.. also closed the gap on 1st-placed Australia. Singapore might have topped the table though.. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 22:33:31 GMTThe long-standing fraud case involving a former employee at Asia Pacific Breweries finally came to a close yesterday. Former APB finance manager Chia Teck Leng had swindled 4 foreign banks of $117 million between 1999 and 2003 by forging signatures of APB directors on documents which he used to obtain loans in the name of his employers (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 22:26:00 GMTSpace in demand as industrial production continues to grow (Tan Chin Keong - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 22:21:13 GMTAn election opinion poll before Polling Day has raised questions on current set of laws which prohibit publication of results of such surveys during hustings. According to the survey, 61 per cent of 520 S'poreans interviewed online said they would vote for PAP. Incidentally, PAP garnered 60.1 per cent of popular vote (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 22:18:58 GMTMr Muhamad Faisal Abdul Manap, a member of WP team which claimed Aljunied GRC, the first Opposition Malay MP (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 22:14:23 GMT'Malay MPs cannot operate the way they have done in the past' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 22:09:10 GMTThe absence of a SM appointment in the latest Cabinet line up may signify PM Lee's need - in the words of one PAP MP - to be "his own man" given the current political climate (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 22:01:38 GMTWith a record number of Opposition MPs and NMPs in the next Parliament, it seems Government Parliamentary Committees - first formed more than 2 decades ago to generate alternative views in the legislature - may have to evolve their roles (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 21:57:44 GMT[End of an era] The present Cabinet held its last meeting at the Istana yesterday. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said.. (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 21:41:56 GMTLetter from Stephen Forshaw, Managing Director, Corporate Affairs, Temasek Holdings (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 21:29:02 GMTDear SM Emeritus: I refer to 6 May 2011 ST report of your election comments. You said S'poreans should ask... you also said you would readily place the future of your children and grandchildren in the hands of ministers and office holders because you know them. The problem is, most S'poreans do not know them personally. How to place our children's future in their hands then? (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 15:57:53 GMTDear Mr Shanmugam: I refer to 5 May 2011 ST report of your election comments. You said Mr Tan Jee Say's plan to phase out manufacturing will cause 500,000 job losses. But you didn't mention Mr Tan's plan to replace those jobs with jobs that are more creative and entrepreneurial in nature. Jobs like those in Google and Apple that S'poreans want (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 15:52:16 GMTNg Kok Lim writes... (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 15:47:50 GMTThat only men in the slate of newcomers into Parliament were given Minister and MOS positions after PM's Cabinet reshuffle was disappointing, and points to a need for "transparency" and "clarity" in the appointment process (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 15:30:29 GMT[photos] China gears up for 1st national tourism dayhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 15:21:28 GMTToday at 11:40 a.m. EDT [11:40pm S'pore], President Obama will deliver a speech on events in the Middle East and North Africa and the U.S.'s policy in the region. You can watch the speech live (TheGuardianUK)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 15:13:35 GMT[27-year-old Malay security officer earning $1,400 hesitant to get married] Please sir, I really really don't know what to do. I'm at my wits end. Any advice/coaching pertaining to this matter will be very much appreciated..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 14:59:31 GMTDr Ng Eng Hen: "The cabinet changes reflect the type of leadership we'll be able to forge, one, this consensus - Where is S'pore? Where S'pore should be headed? How do we get there? Consensus. And then compact - a redefined compact where if together we achieve (it), then there's a bonding between people and leaders. This is the way we want to go, and this is where we want to arrive (at). And I think that's important for us as a process, to be able to achieve that." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 14:50:02 GMT"Housing is always a very sensitive topic, a very sensitive subject. And I guess to the extent that in the last couple of years, housing prices went up very sharply, coinciding with the very dramatic turnaround in the economy. Yeah, I guess.... that resulted in a lot of unhappiness on the ground and I accept responsibility for that." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 14:43:42 GMTThe S'pore govt will award an estimated S$1.1 billion worth of public sector projects to the infocomm industry this financial year.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 13:41:00 GMTWhilst clarification on Ministerial pensions is welcome, I suggest more details be given. Otherwise, S'poreans may still be in the dark about how much exactly ministers receive in their pensions. For example.. [actually, it may be much simpler to just disclose to S'poreans the amounts of pensions that each eligible minister is getting, instead of a long statement of clarification, which leaves citizens with even more doubts and questions] Leong Sze Hian - TOChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 13:32:46 GMTDear Mr Teo [Chee Hean]: I refer to 5 May 2011 ST report of your election contest remarks. You said PAP considers the interests of S'pore and S'poreans first each time it acts, and that there is no reason to act in any other way. When you have Mr Mah explaining why HDB prices must be high in order to feed the reserves.. Singaporeans are just cows to be milked to feed the reserves (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 13:14:58 GMTDear Ms Grace Fu: I refer to 3 May 2011 ST report of your election campaign remarks. You reminded the people of Dr Chee Soon Juan's heckling of PM Goh many years ago, and you said SDP has been repackaged but essentially the same. What is still the same? I don't see any more heckling (trulysingapore )http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 13:08:23 GMTI refer to 4 May 2011 ST report "PM says sorry". PM requested we bear with them while they try their best to fix the problems that vex, disturb or upset our lives. If the govt has been doing that... Instead, the govt kept giving excuses to explain the problems away. That is what vexes, their denials rather than their inaptitude (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 12:56:31 GMTThe thinking behind PM Lee's strategy for allocating Ministers becomes a lot clearer if you consider the issues raised by the Opposition in GE 2011, and which are likely to CONTINUE TO BE ISSUES in GE 2016. These are.. (Thoughts of a Singapore Statistician)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 12:40:51 GMTMinisters pledge to keep open mind, engage S'poreans (Alicia Wong - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 12:32:36 GMT[Moving Words] I've been wanting to write about LKY and GCT stepping down from the Cabinet, and also about the new Cabinet itself. However, work is keeping me too busy. Sorry, folks. Meanwhile..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 10:20:21 GMTSPP's Benjamin Pwee said he hoped the younger generation of PAP leaders would be more willing to work hand-in-hand with S'pore's Opposition parties to move the country forward (Jeanette Tan - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 09:40:38 GMTHE WAS a virtual unknown when he joined WP in February. But Mr Yee Jenn Jong garnered enough support from Joo Chiat residents to be selected as a NCMP (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 09:32:44 GMTOne of the buzzwords of the election was change. It may not be too far-fetched an idea to propose that credible Opposition individuals such as Chen Show Mao, who himself had a stellar career as an international lawyer and is widely respected in the field, be elected into the cabinet, even as a 'second minister' in the Ministry of Law (Christopher Ong - KentRidgeCommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 04:40:00 GMT[Sweeping Cabinet Changes] I hope the sweeping changes in the cabinet comes with sweeping changes in the way PAP thinks and operates.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 04:36:53 GMTRP & SDP respond to Cabinet reshuffle.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 04:01:56 GMTThe town council and PUB officers went door to door to reassure residents the water was safe for drinking. The body of a maid was found in the water tank of the affected block on May 16. No statement is expected to be issued by Minister for the Environment and Water Resources.. also by Minister of Health. After the election activities concluded May 8, all the ministers seem to have gone back into hibernation mode (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 03:56:12 GMTIf you're a digital marketer overseeing the S'pore market, or a business owner looking to understand this island country better, this blog post is for you (Willis Wee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 03:41:51 GMTOut of the LKY shadow.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 03:32:53 GMTHsien Loong gave his cabinet a big shake out and ended up with a new wardrobe. 2 were rejected earlier in the GE, 2 were out of fashion and retired, 2 museum pieces were removed, and 3 unpopular pieces were thrown out. In came 2 of the latest fashionwear while the whole wardrobe was rearranged with mix and match (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 01:08:40 GMTMay open higher; Genting Singapore in focus (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 00:58:19 GMTA well thought out flowchart from the U.S. Air Force on communication strategies for responding to blog posts and comments (chartporn)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 00:44:10 GMTThe growth of on-line casinos offers new temptations for problem gamblers, but the Internet should also provide avenues to treat them, according to a report in [The Lancet], a leading medical journal Wednesday (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 00:40:58 GMTThe real work starts..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 00:36:49 GMTTHIS year's Sultan of S'gor Cup football tournament - S'gor vs S'pore - will be the biggest ever since its inauguration 10 years ago. Among those who could not wait for the match is S'pore legendary defender Samad Allapitchay who describes the matches as an epic battle. Former S'pore player Malek Awab said the only thing on his mind is to win the match (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 19 May 2011 00:00:25 GMT[Not easy to prove fraud] A news report abt purported financial difficulties of a director of Profitable Plots - she had applied for her passport back so she could live in JB, something CAD is opposed to - reminds me it has been 2 years since CAD started investing the company. Yet investigations are only at "an advanced stage" (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 23:41:30 GMTTHE reply by PMO was in response to cyberspace speculation. Statements such as.. tend to confuse ordinary S'poreans. All the Govt needed to do was to quantify its clarification into dollars, and state how much Mr George Yeo, Mrs Lim Hwee Hua and Mr Zainul Abidin Rasheed will receive each month as pension. In other words.. in absolute dollar terms (Krishnan Harihara Kasthuri Rangan - ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 23:27:56 GMTTHE reply by PMO seeks to clarify online speculation that ministerial pension could amount to millions of dollars a year. But I fail to comprehend actual size of the compensation amount. I am confused. A layman can hardly understand the ballpark figure using percentages and ratios (Paul Chan - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 23:18:25 GMTI have always admired and respected Mr Lee, and I thank him for transforming S'pore from a 3rd World country to a 1st World nation. I am happy we have talented, dedicated, honest and able people who will carry on the legacy of PAP, and am certain Mr Lee's departure from Cabinet will not mark an end to his contributions (Grace Chua - STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:39:28 GMT26 new electronic signboards to provide traffic updates along 2 key road corridors.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:23:38 GMTNew Cabinet will have its work cut out (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:19:17 GMT[PM goes for a 'radical change'] I wanted a fresh start, says PM (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:17:29 GMTThe offer by MM and SM to resign from the Cabinet was made after the GE, PM Lee revealed yesterday as he announced he had accepted their decision (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:13:17 GMTOn the same day he was named one of the two Deputy PMs in the new Cabinet, Mr Tharman was yesterday mentioned in the international press as a possible candidate to head IMF, which is looking for a new chief (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:10:04 GMTIt has been 26 years since a political entrant was ushered directly into Cabinet, when Mr Richard Hu was appointed Finance Minister (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:07:00 GMTMinisters of State eager to make an impact (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:04:49 GMTNew office-holders keen to engage the public and tackle hot issues (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 22:03:09 GMTFormer NMP Siew Kum Hong said: 'This line-up is PM's way of telling S'poreans the message has been received loud and clear, and ministers are being made accountable. I had thought PM would transition out the more unpopular ministers over 12 months or so. The fact that PM did not take this easier, more face-saving route is a strong signal to the people.' (.. read full story for free after 6pm - BusinessTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 21:29:32 GMTI would like to say a huge big thank you...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 21:03:29 GMTNews stories in photographs (TheBigPicture)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 21:01:42 GMTGourmet Food Trail with Ah Lun: Straits Café @ Rendezvous Hotel and Ah Yat Seafood Restaurant at Turf Cityhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 17:26:49 GMT[Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's founding father, retires from cabinet] Former PM, who led country from independence in 1959 to 1990, says it is time to make way for a younger team of ministers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 17:18:12 GMTPM Lee reminds everyone Goh Chok Tong is RETIRED.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 17:08:26 GMTThe positive aspect is that some ministers who performed poorly in the elections are leaving the cabinet, and ministers who came under heavy criticism in the past have been transferred. However, the flip side is that as of now, all lateral transfers are just cosmetic, and there has been no revelation as to how policies would change for the better, how lapses would be addressed, and how people's lives would be improved (Ng E-Jay -- SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 17:00:53 GMT[Bold Cabinet line-up, now for the follow through] The start to renewing the moral authority of PAP should be abolition of the GRC scheme and a reduction in ministerial pay. These 2 issues form the twin pillars of visceral resentment against PAP: the 1st is a noble sentiment for minority representation twisted for electoral self-preservation, the 2nd runs contrary to the laymen's sense of what public service should be.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 16:43:23 GMTPM Lee looked cool and in command as he announced his new cabinet. Here is the transcript of PM's speech, as shown on RazorTV... Here is the new line up of ministers, taken from TODAY... (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 16:35:12 GMT[SDP's statement on the cabinet appointments] If there is a lesson in this elections for PAP, it is that people are fed-up with it's policies on cost of living, foreign workers, housing, transportation, education, etc. Therefore, we look forward to each minister coming out over next days and weeks to clearly articulate the new policies and policy initiatives which we expect to be significantly different from their predecessors.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 16:28:00 GMTSDP chief Chee Soon Juan: "If PM Lee is genuinely contrite and is determined to lead a govt that listens to the people, then he will announce an across-the-board reduction in Ministers' salaries." (Fann Sim - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 16:17:37 GMTMoulmein-Kallang GRC resident files complaint against alleged Cooling-off Day violation (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 16:10:31 GMTOpen letter to PM: Make the Singapore Pledge a living reality (A Reporter's Memoir: NO HARD FEELINGS)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 14:57:37 GMTThe dramatic overhaul of the S'pore govt shows it is serious in making changes, analysts said Wednesday (Alicia Wong - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 13:56:35 GMTMr Wong said he has, for some time, informed PM Lee and SM Goh when Mr Goh was PM, that he could leave the Cabinet anytime when they wish to renew the team. Mr Wong said without duties of political office, he will be able to spend more time to engage residents.. will also be able to spend more time with his family, especially his 4 young grandchildren (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 13:42:42 GMT[After Watershed Election, S'pore Is Embarking On A New Era In Politics] In this new era, S'pore citizens will want to be engaged, debated, consulted and listened-to in this new compact of political development. This active citizenry will only be for the good and welfare of S'pore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 13:32:24 GMT"Keep Discovering. New Titles. Fly Emeritus." In the light of the new political landscape, I have decided to update my Twitter profile bio.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 13:20:06 GMTBe grateful for small mercies, it could have been worse. Janil Puthucheary could have been made Minister for Defence. Foo Mee Har could have been appointed Minister of Finance. Truth be told, the appointment in dire need of a fresh face is that of the Prime Minister. The present one doesn't seem to quite hack it (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 13:10:35 GMTPM Lee revealed this about the 3 Ministers who are not part of his new Cabinet reshuffle announced Wednesday (Ion Danker - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 13:00:53 GMTPM Lee said the 3 retiring ministers had asked to leave before the elections, but Mr Lee only agreed to let them step down after the GE.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 12:33:12 GMTStansfield had said the consumer watchdog's suspension of its membership in CaseTrust for Education in Nov 2006 was a wrongful suspension. CaseTrust is needed for private schools which want to enrol international students. CASE has endorsed only NTUC Income as the sole provider and the insurer suspended Stansfield's student insurance policies in 2006 (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 12:25:42 GMTWP's Gerald Giam has criticised timing of PM Lee's Cabinet reshuffle: "While PAP saw it fit to tell voters... who the potential office holders would be, there was no hint that some ministers would be dropped. Had voters known that, election outcome in some wards may have been different. Voters now know that some of the Ministers who they are voting for may lose their portfolio immediately after the elections." (idanker - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 12:22:25 GMTPM's new Cabinet Helloshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 11:39:42 GMT[PM LHL doing exactly as told] There was a list not long ago and LHL seem to give it a serious thought.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 10:48:19 GMTThe shocking resignations. Radio Australia reported that both LKY and Chok Tong are out of active politics. What does this mean? Are part time MPs in active politics or are they part time politicians? What is inactive or not active politics? Radio Australia, please explain (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 10:25:59 GMTWalkover "kee chiu" MP Chan Chun Sing appointed a Minister.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 10:20:20 GMT[S'poreans welcome sweeping Cabinet changes] Entrepreneur Henry Koh, 34, told Yahoo! S'pore that the changes meant there was no turning back for PAP now.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 10:08:44 GMTPossible Corrupt Practice within Jurong Town Council.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 09:55:42 GMTPM said LKY is appointed senior advisor to GIC. GCT is appointed senior advisor to MAS and given the title Emeritus SM. 3 more ministers will be retiring. Out of 14 ministries, 11 will have new ministers in charge. Their appointments will take effect Saturday, May 21 (Alicia Wong - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 09:11:58 GMTWho PAP will field in Aljunied GRC for next election is as good as everyone's guess. On one hand, a GRC team is helmed by a heavyweight minister, but on the other, PAP has the practice of sending new candidates to contest opposition-held wards (NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 09:09:59 GMTM1 network down since this morning.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 08:27:59 GMTM1 has issued a press statement to inform subscribers of the downtime that has been ongoing since Wednesday morning. "We are experiencing technical difficulty on one of our customer management servers, and mobile services to some of our customers are temporarily disrupted." (Fann Sim - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 08:26:15 GMT[PM to announce new Cabinet today] The old built-in one is giving way to a more removable one. Hammer not included. Two or more old screws may be missing.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 08:16:46 GMT[Teo Soh Lung : The Demise of Fear...] WP winning Aljunied is a major political milestone in 2011. The other great milestone is... 24 years after her unjust detention, former detainee Teo Soh Lung contested in Yuhua SMC. The demise of fear ushers in a period of hope and change for S'pore.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 08:13:14 GMTMaking Life Easier for The Elderly - Revisited after MM Lee & SM Goh's resignations from the Cabinet Now that both MM Lee and SM Goh had announced that they would step down from the Cabinet, what should they do? [De Leviathan@ Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 04:36:47 GMTDr Chee Soon Juan addressed 350 members and volunteers at SDP's thank-you dinner on 14 May 11. He noted SDP has become a party of professionals and thinkers.. called on everyone to be do-ers, and build on foundation that has been laid. Below is text and video of the speech (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 02:28:32 GMTI am writing this article in response to "Relooking MM Lee's contributions to Singapore" which was written by my fellow KRC writer, Chris Ong (Koh Choon Hwee - KentRidgeCommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 02:23:09 GMT[Will WP now investigate YPAP leader Sear Hock Rong?] Now that WP has won Aljunied GRC which includes the division of Eunos, will it now investigate into possible conflict of interests between business activities of YPAP leader Sear Hock Rong and Eunos grassroots organizations?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 01:36:13 GMTArticle by Michael Barr, a Senior Lecturer in International Relations at Flinders University.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 01:16:54 GMTThe official news reported a police report was made and the posting and infringement of Cooling Off Day was removed.. How long is 20 minutes? The team that was disqualified in Tanjong Pagar GRC was declared late by 35 sec. The law is the law. Even 1 sec is 1 sec too late, and 20 minutes are 20 minutes too long. Now you know why netizens are incensed (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 01:05:54 GMTMay see weak start; CapitaLand in focus (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 00:49:12 GMTThe biggest problems with status quo - in terms of feedback generation and active discussion of issues - lies in over-reliance upon national feedback unit, REACH, and inability to consolidate spontaneous views or commentaries published on the Internet (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 18 May 2011 00:42:41 GMTPAP keeps telling us S'pore cannot afford to be on auto-pilot. But since 8 May, S'pore has been on auto-pilot. PM has yet to announce his new cabinet, let alone tell us whether he has accepted Dad's and GCT's offer to step down. Waz going on? Anyway, this delay shows us S'pore is such a well-oiled machine it can afford to go on auto-pilot when PM decides to dither (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 23:46:19 GMT"A decline will start if fewer and fewer people turn up for its [recruitment] 'tea sessions'." The future will depend on how PM carries out his pledge to move closer to the younger electorate. If he can pull it off, it could once again sweeten the ground for this political party that still possesses significant strength (SeahChiangNee - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 23:41:27 GMTContinuously disparaging or wildly praising either is to live in the past. Enough viewpoints have shared about these 2 very important men who will forever be part of S'pore's history, good or bad. S'pore has to look forward to what beholds the country across the horizon, and build itself up with the same humility and effort circa 1965 (Christopher Ong - KentRidgeCommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 23:35:17 GMTI still do not understand why till this day, PAP MPs need such huge gathering of grassroots leaders to pave the way for MPs' visits. If it is to impress upon the ordinary folks the importance of their visits, then I, for one, am clearly not impressed. The people in middle and upper echelons of govt should take a leaf out of Chen Show Mao's book. Visit his FB page and you will know what I mean (Elaine Ong - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 23:28:54 GMT[Reader's Comment: You are correct that electronic trails don't lie. If what Tin (Pei Ling) said about the incident was made up, she would be in deep s***. (Late U.S. President Richard) Nixon got into serious trouble not because of the break-in, but because of the lie and cover-up] SingaporeNoteshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 23:24:36 GMT[GRCs no longer safe havens for newbies] Mr Elgin Toh's commentary ['GRC loss impacts PAP's renewal plans'] hit the nail on the head. PAP has become a victim of its own policies. Perhaps it's time to take a hard look at the motivations of PAP's talent (Tan Hui Tsing)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 22:57:54 GMT[Emulate Chiam's unwavering spirit] The spirit of service before self - comprehending that politics is really about servant-leadership - is reflected in his back-to-basics, unwavering commitment to his constituents. Mr. Chiam may be down, but he is far from out. Thank you, sir (Kwan Jin Yao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 22:47:49 GMT[SGX needs more blue-chip counters, not high-tech upgrades] I am surprised by SGX's $250m investment to create world's fastest trading engine, and wonder if this is what our stock market needs. I have been involved in stockbroking for past 17 years and have not seen S'pore stock market trading volumes languishing so badly (S. Nallakaruppan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 22:41:38 GMT[The 'it is policy' approach] I am heartened 2 Cabinet Ministers have addressed concerns of S'poreans on policy-making. As a post-65er and a former junior civil servant who served for 10 years, I would like to share my thoughts on why there might be some form of "resentment" among voters, as some ministers have noted (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 22:11:38 GMTEach year produces more graduates who experience increasing difficulty in finding employment here... human resource professionals can help by creatively seeking out what the graduate employee can contribute to the organisation - look at the individual as a whole rather than stick rigidly to the job specification (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 22:07:34 GMTPAP MPs share their views (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 22:03:19 GMT'If things are going well, that's when you leave' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 22:01:15 GMTAn open letter from Sundram Muthiah (SatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 15:45:32 GMTIt would not be an exaggaration to say that Ms Tin [Pei Ling] is precisely the type of PAP "department store dummy" that David Marshall famously lambasted prior to his passing - she has no views of her own, she just toes the party line, she is more of a community volunteer than a politician (Nigel Tan - SatayClub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 14:34:32 GMTAs much as The Cabinet wants to maintain a distance, His Leeness could still spring a surprise at an inopportune moment (Belmont Lay - NewNation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 14:18:43 GMTThe reasons behind separation of Maria Shriver and Arnold Schwarzenegger are becoming clearer. The former governor of California released a statement Tuesday.. (WaPo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 12:15:33 GMTEwen Boey, Yahoo! Sg [411 Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 10:47:34 GMT[Tan Jee Say's $60 billion National Regeneration Plan] In the section "Enterprise Regeneration Fund", Jee Say proposes the govt devotes $10 billion to the creative industry and enterprise (Kelvin Teo - NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 10:03:09 GMTHandmade elections collectibleshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 09:30:43 GMT[S'poreans : 2nd biggest gamblers in the world] There is only one other country where gambling is a more severe problem than in S'pore - Australia. Australians gamble slightly more than S'poreans but in Australia, the gambling problem is now a national crisis.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 09:28:20 GMTEven if we assume the devil is in the details, it is clear that PAP is intent on one thing only moving forward: Better communication of policies to bridge understanding with citizens and reduce resentment (Howard Lee -TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 09:23:21 GMTFrom the crisis communications perspective, PAP's decision to remain silent on their selection process that enabled a seemingly unqualified candidate to be elected as an MP is dangerous. So what can PAP do to manage this crisis? (cwfong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 05:57:01 GMTThe "Welcome to Potong Pasir" Billboard featuring Chiam See Tonghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 05:51:46 GMTThe elections are over: CNNGo catches up with SDP's oh-so-cuddly mascot to get his views on politics, democracy and his availability for children's birthday parties (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 03:54:49 GMTHead-based 'smarts' alone are simply not enough for this changed electorate (reproduced from today's Business Times - sammyboy)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 03:18:55 GMT[Why people should not hate Tin Pei Ling...] What you really dislike is the PAP system of GRC, selection and compensation. Tin Pei Ling did not select herself to be MP, PM Lee and other senior leaders did. Tin Pei Ling did not ask to be paid $15,000 a month, that is the PAP way of over-compensating elites who help to preserve their system. You love Tin Pei Ling not... but your hatred, she really does not deserve.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 17 May 2011 02:59:27 GMTThe GE 2011 Political Demise of LKY: A Supreme Ironyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:51:57 GMT[Electoral politics alone may not solve all of society's woes] This gap can only be bridged by an aware and active citizenry that is willing to speak up for the less fortunate and the exploited, regardless of whether the victims are locals or foreigners (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:49:55 GMT[PAP lost their BIGGEST GAMBLE] PAP's high stake gambling habits has cost it dearly. If you think the cost of this gambling is merely 2 or 3 ministers, think again. The implications of this loss in Aljunied GRC is much wider and deeper..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:48:04 GMTComplaint against MP Tin Pei Ling filed with PM.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:46:14 GMT[Aljunied delay remains inexplicable] If, as reported, Mr George Yeo himself was preparing to concede as early as 11pm, and his opponent, Mr Low Thia Khiang, too was already preparing to celebrate victory, what was it that stood in the way of an earlier public announcement of this crucial result by the Returning Officer? (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:42:57 GMT[Killing a chicken to scare the monkeys?] As the dust of S'pore's GE settles, a forgotten side of S'pore continues to wage a quiet, uphill battle for change. Our guest writer, Kirsten Han, shares some recent developments about the death penalty for drugs in S'pore (TheEnquirer)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:38:50 GMTOne year after assault, investigations still ongoing? [Reader's Comment: One of the shameful things about s'pore is the way s'poreans are pushed around - or beaten in this case - by foreigners in their own country. Would these ang mos dare to do this in africa, in middle east? no way...]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:36:40 GMTLady, gentermen, welcome to Malaysia!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:34:48 GMT[SDP's remark] I was appalled by SDP's comment that the posts of MM and SM 'served no useful purpose except to drain the national budget'. The election is over, choices have been made, enough is enough (Goh Siok Noi, also 3 other letters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:26:17 GMTI feel regret, and some measure of anger, that result of the GE has led to resignations of MM Lee and SM Goh. Without them, we will not be lamenting the long queue for HDB flats, but whether we would have had public housing at all. Without them, we will not be complaining about packed trains and buses, but whether we would have had an MRT to complain about (Lim Chuan Hock)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:20:03 GMT[MM, 2 words say it all] I wrote a long letter... I then deleted the letter because I realised 2 words would best summarise what many S'poreans want to say to MM Lee: 'Thank you' (Prof David Chan, SMU)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:13:56 GMT[US National Debt : A lesson for all nations] Beware of govts that exercise extreme parsimony in social spending but love tax cuts, military spending and deregulating the activities of banks. You have to ask whether a govt that debate vigorously for a $1 per day increase in assistance should also have its defense budget scrutinised because..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:08:02 GMTMy tears flowed as I read about our 2 respected ministers quitting the Cabinet. That MM Lee, with his indomitable spirit, endangered his life to deal with the communists was a clear act of courage, and he demonstrated it again by quitting the Cabinet as an act of selflessness (Francis Cheng)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 23:04:48 GMT[PAP not the only one that must take stock] During the week leading to Polling Day, my neighbour, a foreigner, asked me why S'poreans were complaining. Why the strongly worded comments in Internet forums? Come live in my country, she said. With such views, would it unfair to ask whether it is only the PAP that needs to take stock and examine itself? (Myra Lee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 22:59:38 GMT[PAP not averse to change] I am grateful to our former PMs for standing by a much broader and generous vision of citizenship and a tolerant society. Thank you, MM Lee and SM Goh (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 22:51:27 GMTInvestigators have pulled data from both black boxes of an Air France jet. Flight 447 from Rio de Janeiro to Paris vanished over the Atlantic in a storm on June 1, 2009, triggering a hunt for the wreckage and black boxes. The recorders were hauled nearly 4 km to the surface in early May after a search operation costing US$50 million (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 22:22:33 GMTDominique Strauss-Kahn, a man accustomed to luxury hotel suites and 1st-class plane travel, will make his home for now at NY City's notorious Rikers Island jail (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 22:16:43 GMTPolice are investigating an alleged violation of Cooling Off Day guidelines involving comments on PAP MP Tin Pei Ling's Facebook page. The report was confirmed by police yesterday, following information that a member of the public had filed a complaint (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 22:12:43 GMTWhen a means tester starts from a position of mistrust of all his claimants, and is inclined to make insensitive and disrespectful comments about their plight.. "Do not be obsessed with the need to 'catch' free-riders, for many who come before you are genuinely helpless members of the most disadvantaged class of society" (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 22:05:53 GMTWhy is it that these smaller flats were subsequently either perceived by HDB as lacking a demand, or was it a matter of policy? What is wrong with living in a small flat even on rental if it means affordability, and having more disposable income for other uses? In any case, HDB flats on purchase have a 99-year lease. Owners are really lessees only (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 21:58:11 GMTS'pore's sports chief [DPM Teo Chee Hean] was asked if more should be done to help retired Olympians financially, and he said: "I've spoken to a number of them, and many do have good jobs, are successful in their own ways. To be a sportsman, you need to have determination to succeed in what you're doing, and many have made a success in life." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 21:48:43 GMT"The additional platform will allow more trains to be run at shorter intervals so that commuters can benefit from shorter waiting time and a more comfortable journey. This project is a key part of LTA's plan to significantly enhance S'pore's MRT network." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 21:44:59 GMTApril sales of new private homes surged 29 per cent. "56.2 per cent of all units sold were in the mass market, or under S$1,200 per sq ft. The strong showing in the mass market indicates sustained interest in private property by HDB upgraders." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 21:40:06 GMTCambridge beats arch rival Oxford to take 1st place in the Guardian ranking of UK universities.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 16:46:47 GMTThe arrest of Dominique Strauss-Kahn, who headed IMF for 3-1/2 years, is but another illustration of how high office is no guarantee of moral fortitude. Even as PM Lee mulls over key appointments for his new cabinet, across the island, fingers are crossed about recent additions to his team (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 16:32:20 GMTSingapore's Lee Kuan Yew meets Chinese defense chiefhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 15:45:32 GMT[115,900 Jobs Created, But How Many Went To Citizens?] As I mentioned previously, it is baffling when we see the term "locals" whenever job and salary statistics are released by the govt. Let me clear the air again: The term "locals" refer to BOTH citizens and permanent residents.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 15:38:14 GMTA leader steps down and Singapore moves on.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 15:30:46 GMTDoes Cabinet reshuffle imply reform?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 15:25:21 GMTOur views on MM Lee and SM Goh's exithttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 15:22:53 GMTA heated argument between a luxury car driver and another driver at the Atrium along Orchard Road highlights growing urban stress in Singapore (Fann Sim - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 11:54:58 GMT[Of losers, lessons and little lads] The best is yet to be (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 10:01:15 GMTMr Yam Ah Mee has declared in a govt gazette 3 Opposition candidates as NCMPs (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 09:50:31 GMT[video] Tyra Banks yells at Lee Kuan Yewhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 09:31:36 GMTA new video featuring Marine Parade GRC MP-elect Tin Pei Ling is quickly making its rounds online (Jeff Oon - Yahoo!Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 09:07:36 GMTJurong TC GM is the MD of its contractor for managing township serviceshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 08:23:11 GMTResident Committee (RC) run by PAPhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 08:20:52 GMT[MM and SM quit Cabinet: high time!] ..should follow the examples of former British PM Tony Blair and former U.S. Presidents Carter and Clinton and go on to a bigger stage like the United Nations, or set up their own foundations for global causes (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 07:49:04 GMTOpposition parties react to MM, SM stepping down (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 07:47:21 GMT[Talk at the Post Museum: election perspectives] Between party brand and candidates' allure, the temptation is often to rely on allure. The personality factor. This is short-sighted. Brand value is portable and more lasting. Unfortunately, it requires much hard work. But I've never heard of shortcuts to lasting political success, have you?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 07:43:03 GMTInsider thoughts of an election candidatehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 07:40:30 GMT[MM & SM Leave Cabinet: A break from the past...] We need leadership that can break free from the past, to chart new direction based on a deeper understanding what is happening to the S'pore society and economy to counteract the forces that will lead to poor outcomes for S'poreans.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 07:37:06 GMTThis article was posted on May 01, 2011 by HK's South China Morning Post. Also, the response by Singapore General Consul in HK after the article (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 07:34:12 GMT[GE2011 - Looking Back and Peeking Ahead] This election is, indeed, a watershed. We hope not only the people have awakened. We hope the politicians will now realize they are just our contract servants for 5 years, and will stop being arrogant. In future, they need to show why their contract needs to be renewed. This is how the next election will be fought (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 07:31:00 GMTA contributor sent SgEP this interesting link to a Chinese article in the Higher Chinese for Secondary Schools Textbook 3A. "A Secondary 3 student sent us these pages from her Higher Chinese textbook. I wonder if the Minister of Education has read the textbook ? - Chapter/Lesson 13 of the Higher Chinese for Secondary Schools Textbook 3A, (published by the Ministry of Education) answers most if not all of the Minister's questions on Show Mao's motivations for returning to Singapore."http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 03:02:23 GMTMr Chiam See Tong: 'The question is: Why now, and not 5 years later? I think MM and SM owe an explanation to the public on this point.' It is the 'fair' thing to do.. the outcome of the polls would probably have been different if voters had known before the election that SM Goh, 69, and MM Lee, 87, were planning to step down as ministers (ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 01:42:06 GMTGeorge Yeo figuratively described PAP as a broad church. Now you can understand why the 'pastor' called on the sinners to repent, and why the believers shouted, 'In George we trust!'. This new religion can be appropriately called Papism, or shall it be called Papianity? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 01:30:04 GMTSDP calls on supporters to prepare "Road to 2016"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 01:23:32 GMT[Many young billionaires work to build fortunes, do not inherit] Nearly 80 percent of the young and wealthy in China built up their careers from nearly nothing.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 01:14:19 GMTAll change for the world's favourite metal (Richard Anderson - BBC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 01:08:43 GMT[Plans by 2 NTUC social enterprises to double outlets in next 5 years] By then, "NTUC Unity Healthcare" and "NTUC First Campus" would have a market presence akin to what sister enterprises "FairPrice" and "Income" now have in their respective sectors. The plans were announced April as NTUC's 12 social enterprises mapped out their vision for 2015 (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 01:03:22 GMTWe regret the inconvenience caused. The most recent operator, World Food Group, had difficulty sustaining their business and had to cease operations. The operator before them also did not wish to continue their operations beyond the 1st term of their tenancy (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 00:51:18 GMT[Mr Chiam See Tong's Lessons For All Aspiring Politicians] The spirit of service before self - comprehending that politics is really about servant-leadership - is reflected in his back-to-basics, unwavering commitment to his constituents. Mr. Chiam may be down, but he is far from out. Thank you, sir.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 00:45:35 GMTTHE efforts of Credit Counselling S'pore is much appreciated ["Why moneylending rates must be capped"]. I am upset with the way Registrar of Moneylenders is responding to the situation. We as a country cannot take the approach of letting the market decide on all matters. We need to ensure S'poreans pay a fair interest rate so that they do not get caught in financial quicksands (R. Kalaiselvan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 00:37:32 GMTHousing type and size do not necessarily reflect a person's asset and wealth. Yet, families like us receive less from wealth-sharing schemes just because we live in a 5-room HDB executive apartment (Alena Yap)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 00:31:25 GMTSurvey shows nearly 8 in 10 public transport commuters dissatisfied (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 00:25:52 GMTThey have decided to be in it for the long haul. Over the next 5 years, the SDP team that contested in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC plans to engage residents on services they want in their community. "This idea that PAP only serves communities that vote for them is an idea we have to throw into history... We're members of this community, we've built relationships, and we have skills we bring to this table in terms of social welfare." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 00:22:09 GMTSome Bishan-Toa Payoh residents have offered to host informal neighbourhood parties at their homes, with SPP leaders in attendance (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 00:15:22 GMTWith PAP's dominance in Govt, it remains puzzling why the party Whip still continues to be firmly imposed with few exceptions, giving the broader public the perception that these MPs are merely "yes men".. As a Potong Pasir resident, I hope my new MP would be as courageous as his predecessor in speaking out in Parliament on broader national issues (Letter from Liew Kai Khiun- TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 16 May 2011 00:08:09 GMT[Rash to resign from WP] It is deplorable that Mr Eric Tan has resigned from WP because he has been passed over for NCMP seat. Such a rash act does not bode well for his standing as a political leader, as he should respect collective decision of the party's CEC (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:58:16 GMTThe spotlight cast on spouses and families during U.S. election campaigns can be trying even for strong marriages. What have we learned about how a candidate's marital and family life affects voters' views? Eight [8] experts share their views (NewYorkTimes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:51:33 GMTWe thank Mr Jason Chiam for his letter ['Allow WP to continue using present Aljunied Town Council premises as usual']. MND and HDB will work with all elected MPs and other stakeholders on formation of new town councils, so as to ensure smooth handover of town council functions, for benefit of all HDB residents (Chong Weng Yong, HDB - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:44:20 GMTMore ways civil servants can listen actively (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:38:21 GMTRetirement news will not hit markets hard (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:34:15 GMT... in reply to The Sunday Times (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:30:13 GMTMM, SM may still be approached for advice (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:28:13 GMTAs these 2 giants start to fade from the political scene, S'poreans should be mindful of the huge contributions by both men, especially MM Lee, who, together with his magnificent old party stalwarts, laid the foundation of modern S'pore. To both, all S'poreans owe an incalculable debt. All S'poreans must now stand solidly behind PM Lee.. (Lee Seck Kay)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:12:10 GMTI AM saddened by the announcement MM and SM would be retiring.. which adds to the painful loss of George Yeo. MM and SM are irreplaceable in S'pore's Govt. Despite heavy loss of nearly a century of political experience.. It is also a stamp of confidence for the younger generation of leaders led by PM Lee (Tay Xiong Sheng)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 23:06:28 GMT[Dawn of new era] It is timely and the right thing to do. It is a positive sign that a wind of change is starting to shape how S'pore will be governed in the future (Tan Ho Gian, and 4 other letters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 22:56:52 GMTThey still remain MPs and members of the powerful CEC of PAP. MM Lee is still chairman of GIC and both may be holding a host of other posts as well. How much change from status quo their departure will bring - given that their portfolios were not clearly defined - remains to be seen (Dr Teoh Ren Shang)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 22:51:21 GMT[MM Lee, SM Goh stepping down] This is hallmark of S'pore's political culture that has served us well, and a virtue the Opposition should seek to emulate.. it is important to remember majority of S'poreans - 60.1 per cent - voted for PAP, and we should never be left with this niggling feeling it is the 39.9 per cent who voted for Opposition that truly won the GE (ST Forum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 22:42:24 GMT"All my old colleagues have left. I am alone of the old team. I am staying on for a while to help the transition." Well he stayed on until 14 May 2011, more than 21 years after uttering the above (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 22:34:48 GMT[A new, post-LKY era] Departure reinforces belief that S'pore system based on institutions, not personalities (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 21:41:57 GMTTime for hatchet to be buried (satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 21:29:31 GMTTowards a democratic society?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 21:27:15 GMTMulling over LKY's legacyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 21:25:08 GMT"The retirement of LKY was long overdue, as he has been seen as disconnecting from contemporary S'poreans," said Bridget Welsh, a political science professor at SMU. Whether that contemporary lot refers to the population at large or within party ranks remains to be seen (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 16:59:54 GMT[Lee Hsien Loong scores a nought for political nous] What is there to consider? PM Lee should have accepted the proffered resignations of LKY and GCT with alacrity. Instead he dithers. The abject failure to make capital of the opportunity just shows how second-rate he is.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 15:51:43 GMT[PM Lee's tasks ahead] The most urgent and important is putting together the next Cabinet. The biggest challenge is to lay out the path his govt will take in addressing the groundswell of discontent. Perhaps the biggest comfort he can take is that he now has a clean slate to start with. Indeed, S'pore's entry into post-LKY era holds much promise - if PM Lee gets it right.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 14:38:32 GMTPolitical watchers and MPs said the decision by MM and SM to step down marks the passing of an era, a time for a new generation to take charge. As MPs, both MM and SM will continue to wield some influence, but their retirement is a clear sign it is PM who is firmly in charge, and a new generation has to lead change (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 14:34:22 GMT[Exit Management of our former PMs] We have never had to manage departure of our PM before. Will they be accorded special titles? Or will they be just ordinary citizens? Can SM remain as MAS chairman as this i believe is a Ministerial rank and likewise, can a non Minister be Chairman of GIC? Protocol ranking is also important especially when..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 14:25:35 GMT[Pension about a tenth of minister's pay] I refer to 14 Mar 2011 ST report of Mr Teo Chee Hean's attempt at explaining minister pensions. After explaining so much, we are still not told how much exactly is Mr George Yeo getting. Let's try to calculate for ourselves... So which is more believable? Mr Teo's clarification, or supposed misinformation he claims to be circulating on Internet? (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 12:44:32 GMT[WP's real aim is to secure its own future] I refer to 2nd May ST report. Mr Raymond Lim said this about WP: "They simply want you to vote them into parliament. It's their future they want you to secure. Not yours." Was Mr Lim referring to PAP instead? PAP wants us to continue to vote them into parliament.. want us to secure their million dollar future. What do they care about our future when all they have done so far is to deny our problems until election time? (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 12:39:13 GMT[WP manifesto big on rhetoric, short on substance, says Jaya] I refer to 2nd May 2011 ST report. Prof Jayakumar explained PAP manifesto is about what the govt has done to improve our lives. A manifesto should be about the future. So what if past ministers like Dr Goh Keng Swee has done a lot for us? Do we vote for current PAP ministers out of gratitude to past ministers? (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 12:33:32 GMT[What if PAP fails to form govt??] Dear ST: I refer to 6 May 2011 letter. Mrs Doreen Chang fears the possibility of a freak result. Year after year, PAP warns of a freak result. Year after year, we only have a miserable 2 or so Opposition MPs. Please get real, Mrs Chang. We are sick and tired of the 'freak result' that never happens (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 12:28:03 GMT[Infographic] Americans spend US$477 billion a year MORE on healthcare than other advanced countries. Yet, the U.S. has fallen behind, failing to provide affordable healthcare to its citizens. This infographic presents some alarming numbers (medicalbillingandcoding)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 09:49:51 GMTAzerbaijan won the annual Eurovision Song Contest with the romantic ballad "Running Scared" on Saturday, watched by a TV audience of more than 100 million people (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 09:42:08 GMTMr Feedback - the man who takes the nation's pulsehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 09:39:51 GMTIS it really fair? In S'pore's elections last week, PAP won 81 out of 87 seats even though only about 60% of voters chose it. Yes, the island republic officially has "democracy", but the other 40% could be wondering if their views will count for much at all (Andrew Sia - TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 09:37:22 GMTTributes pour in for MM Lee, SM Goh (Alicia Wong - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 08:53:12 GMTLee Kuan Yew and Goh Chok Tong: Time to go (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 08:46:39 GMTS'pore is ready for post-LKY era, says Halimah Yacob (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 08:43:32 GMTAnalysis: S'pore makes partial break with past as Lee steps down (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 08:39:46 GMTPN Balji: Trimmer, slimmer, leaner Cabinet (Alicia Wong, Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 08:35:02 GMTKenneth Jeyaretnam: "Well, I think it was not clear if it was planned before the election. I think it is largely a public relations exercise, and it would not make any significant change to govt policies." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 05:38:55 GMTSDP has, in our Shadow Budget 2011, called for posts created in PMO to be abolished as they serve no useful purpose except to drain the national budget.. If the motivation is for younger generation to take over leadership of politics in S'pore, Mr Lee should completely retire from the political scene. The clean break would truly signal a new beginning.. (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 05:33:20 GMTDr Vincent Wijeysingha has welcomed the decision.. He described the move as one that could herald new ideas in the PAP. Mr Tan Jee Say said it is only fair to voters if by-elections are called.. S'poreans in Marine Parade voted on the basis that Mr Goh would continue as a Minister. This applies to Tanjong Pagar as well (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 05:27:56 GMTLKY + Goh still don't get ithttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 04:23:04 GMT[The following article was first published on 6 September 2007. With the talk of "reform" and "change" in the PAP govt following GE 2011, we feel it is timely to re-post this article for discussion] Andrew Loh - TOChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 03:08:42 GMTIt would be a mistake to assume there is no need for public libraries, as they narrow the social divide and provide healthy recreation, or even add identity to the various communities. In M'sian public libraries, you cannot talk above a whisper, eat, drink, sleep. Why must this be so? In S'pore National Library, there is a cafe where you can browse through a book before borrowing (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 01:43:46 GMT16 years after her death, Teresa Teng continues to capture the hearts of her fans. A concert by Dama Orchestra at the KL Performing Arts Centre last night saw a full house.. (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 01:36:28 GMTMM and SM are thinking more alike, it seems. It's better late than never. My original take was that both LKY and Chok Tong would not even contest the GE. The next move would likely be another joint statement that both would step down as MP. As precedence had been set, there would not be a need for a by election.. (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 15 May 2011 01:25:12 GMTI know Eric. He is a meek, mild and gentle man with steely determination. He is not into doing things for "glory" or publicity. Let's salute him for the part he has played in WP's breakthrough and leave it at that. And be sorry that a good man has left politics (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 23:54:00 GMTPension for Ministershttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 23:44:53 GMTWith the demise of the positions of MM and SM, (yes, its sheer stupidity to carry on with these despotic costly "bo leow" appointments) I would like to see the "de-paptism" of the following in due course... Sedikit sedikit lama lama jadi bukit! (FeedMeToTheFish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 22:27:51 GMTBoth Mr Lee and Mr Goh have outlived their welcomes. When they stepped down from the office of PM, they both embarked on what can only be described as long farewells: left without any specific role in the cabinet, but nonetheless regarded to be indispensable by virtue of their seniority and the PAP's fixation with sentimentality (Cheryl Chan - satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 22:22:30 GMTAn article in TOC reported that Jeffrey Chua is town council GM, is also MD of CPG Facilities Mgmt that signed a 3-year contract last year [Apparently confident PAP will walkover that GRC]. TOC had questioned whether there is conflict of interest of that sort of arrangement. To me.. a PAP Skeleton found in a PAP cupboard (SSPT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 17:20:14 GMTPM Lee: MM Lee, SM Goh decision a 'major event'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 17:05:05 GMTLATEST: LOCAL Song For Our DEAR LEADERS....Must Watch!!!!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 16:59:40 GMT[S'pore's human rights record under the UPR] Dear UN Human Rights Office: I refer to 7 May 2011 ST report of my country's representation of its human rights record to UN by our ambassador. Mr Ong Keng Yong highlighted S'pore's economic progress and other achievements. If economic progress can substitute for human rights, then China will have no human rights issues now (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 16:26:05 GMT[Alternative Malay voice in Parliament will enrich Malay-Muslim community] Dr Yaacob was commenting on the 1st Malay Opposition MP - Muhamad Faisal Abdul Manap - who is from WP Aljunied team that won in the GE (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 15:59:50 GMT[No more Blank Cheque for PAP] Minister George Yeo's comments that PAP should transform itself reminded me of what I said at the Presidential Address Debate on 1 March 1985. I said there will be "no more blank cheque" for PAP. Read what I said in Parliament on 1 March 1985...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 15:54:15 GMTIn putting a spin on why SGX bid for ASX failed, the CEO of SGX said he knew chances of success were slight, but decided that rewards, if the bid succeeded, were worth it. Err sounds like a buyer of Toto, punter who bets on horses that have long odds, or a player of roulette, not a CEO (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 15:47:55 GMTSylvia Lim resigns from teaching position [as usual, Yahoo! articles attract lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 15:14:47 GMTRegardless of the real motivation for MM and SM departing from the cabinet together, it is clear PAP feels need for change in order to address its eroding popularity. But whether it will really change for the better, and start to implement policies that take care of S'poreans rather than treat them as mere economic digits, remains to be seen (Ng E-Jay -- SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 15:04:13 GMTReactions to SM Goh, MM Lee leaving Cabinethttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 15:01:00 GMTBoth MM and SM sure made their contributions alright - Lee with his "5 years to repent" challenge, and Goh with his share of scoring his own goals. Given the timing, barely 1 week after GE post-mortem, maybe it was a Saturday Night Massacre (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 12:50:20 GMTAfter GE 2011, some crystal-ball gazinghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 12:24:15 GMTHere is their statement in full.. (lots of Readers' Comments - Yahoo!)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 11:41:37 GMTSylvia Lim has quitted her job at Temasek Poly to serve as a full-time MPhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 11:38:11 GMT"This is to confirm that I have, on 13 May 2011, tendered my resignation from my position at Temasek Polytechnic, after more than 12 years of service. The move is prompted by what I anticipate to be an increased workload after being elected as part of WP team for Aljunied GRC in GE 2011.." (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 11:25:29 GMTDBS Chairman Peter Seah, 64, has a successful 34-year career in banking but he firmly believes failure is an important step in achieving success. Mr Seah was sharing his personal and professional experiences with a group of students and old boys of SJI (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 09:33:40 GMTZainul Abidin Rasheed joins a chorus of sore losers who blame "national issues" for their downfall. There's nothing "national" about bread and butter issues like cost of living, affordable housing and being crowded out by foreigners, except that these are nation wide detritus of defective policy making (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 08:25:31 GMTWhilst clarification on Ministerial pensions is welcome, I suggest more details be given. Otherwise, S'poreans may still be in the dark about how much exactly ministers receive in their pensions. For example.. [actually, it may be much simpler to just disclose to S'poreans the amounts of pensions that each eligible minister is getting, instead of a long statement of clarification, which leaves citizens with even more doubts and questions] Leong Sze Hian - TOChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 08:12:11 GMTRumours being spread online said George Yeo would continue to receive a 7-digit pension sum every year, even after stepping down as a Minister. "I'm not surprised it [the misinformation] causes some consternation. So it's best to just state what the actual position is, and the actual position is quite different from the misinformation that has been going around." (lots of Readers' Comments - Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 08:09:36 GMTPolitical parties should never merge just to topple a common enemy. This would simply lead to infighting once that common enemy is defeated (G Hui - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 08:05:54 GMTRemember what your leader, Lee Hsien Loong said, "You are the servants of the people." It is high time you reflect on this and start acting like one.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 08:04:24 GMTPublic Service Division must connect with people [SGEP editor: Lots of Readers' Comments] Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 03:32:27 GMT[Balanced reporting the key to engaging young voters] Candidates for the ruling parties were quoted word for word and given large and exclusive coverage, while Opposition candidates were quoted in the 3rd person, and given less coverage. This was obvious to the young and they shut out the local press (Sng Choon Kwee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 01:32:39 GMTWhy did the main media take a more agreeable role of having a little more coverage of the Opposition? Why were there lesser personal attacks on the Opposition? The main media knew that if they did not give a more balanced coverage, the alternate media would do it for them... (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 01:24:21 GMT[Elected presidency next: No walkovers, please] Since the 1st elected presidency, there has been a paucity of candidates stepping forward to contest. The rule [pre-qualification criterion] is overly stringent. Even so, and even if only 1 candidate is on the ballot, there should be a stipulation he seeks political legitimacy through a 'yes' or 'no' vote directly from the electorate (Clinton Lim)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 01:15:15 GMTWorkers' Party will serve Aljunied GRC well (Paul Chan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 01:05:07 GMT[Will and wisdom of voters reflected in polls] PAP should move on from thinking it is the only party that can govern S'pore; the evidence from the elections is that it no longer has a monopoly of the best people. The reality is that many S'poreans desire viable alternatives and PAP must accept this (Dr Kenneth Kwok)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 01:02:07 GMTI disagree with Ms JH Chan's correlations concerning democracy ["Can S'pore cope with Trojan horse of democracy?"]. Inefficient services have no direct correlation with a democracy. They could be consequences.. and these are not necessarily a given in any democracy. A democracy can choose to say no to these arrangements, after studying the pros and cons (Rafidah Abdul Razak)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 00:57:32 GMT[Healthcare cracks as wide as Bishan River...] The govt says it is not financially prudent to do more to help the sick. However, to win more votes at Ang Moh Kio GRC, the PAP promised to build an artificial river running through Bishan Park that cost $1.2B. Yes, $1.2B for pork barrel but they cannot do more for cancer patients.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 00:41:07 GMTPeople must all be eagerly waiting to know how much George Yeo and Lim Hwee Hua will be getting for their pensions in the next 40 years. The point now is who will be 1st to claim credit for putting this as a piece of news and earn the right to put his/her name to it? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 00:27:48 GMTSome of you may have noticed that my blog had been acting strange for the whole of yesterday. You were not able to leave comments; some comments disappeared; a post disappeared, then reappeared with all comments gone. The reason was that Blogger ran into lots of problems, and bloggers on Blogspot worldwide had their blogs go crazy for some time. A note from Blogger:http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 00:16:21 GMT[Wanted - leaders with talent and fire] Attempts by PAP to lure private sector talent fared poorly this time around, and the party now needs to engage with the younger electorate (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 00:10:55 GMTDear ST: The 10th May 2011 forum letter by Mr KC Tang expresses a heartfelt sentiment amongst some S'poreans - grief over loss of a respected minister, Mr George Yeo. But according to 11th May ST "Business as usual at Foreign Ministry", Mr George Yeo reportedly gave assurance it will be business as usual because it is an institution, they have officials, they have processes, so he is not worried (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 00:07:03 GMTIn one fell swoop, we have lost this widely respected gentleman [George Yeo] to carry our flag and reputation in the volatile international arena. In the moments when voters were swayed towards what they perceived to be a chance to be hip, did they also consider who would fill this lacuna, or even fleetingly weigh the calibre of the individuals in the Opposition vis-a-vis the proven capability, mettle and contributions of the incumbent team? (Jasmine Tan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 14 May 2011 00:00:40 GMTI am particularly upset that constituents of Aljunied were in favor of a team of relatively unqualified candidates against a PAP team that had served them well for more than 2 decades, and had strong candidates. Have S'poreans chosen to listen and believe in rhetoric of the Opposition, and failed to appreciate the excellent track record of PAP? (Soh Wei Jie)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 23:46:32 GMT[Pro-opposition obsession] PAP has done a fabulous job converting S'pore from a slum to a metropolitan city. I would not be so hasty as to plump for a big change and give the Opposition more GRCs, without playing it safe and being sure they will not totally foul up this remarkable country (Gloria Wong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 23:39:20 GMTWe have taken many of the current and past political office-holders for granted. We should not assume that many of them will come forward just for the financial rewards, but to serve a more noble purpose. Those who continue to serve today, serve out of a sense of duty and responsibility to S'pore and its people (STForum Online)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:54:23 GMTDr Vincent Wijeysingha: PAP no longer formidable [video interview]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:38:34 GMTWP's Eric Tan resigns ungraciously (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:34:40 GMTEric Tan a 'friend and mentor' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:32:26 GMTThe rise of Benjamin Pwee (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:30:04 GMTSingapore Democratic Alliance ponders its future, while other Opposition parties plot strategy for next battle (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:28:07 GMTSitoh holds first Meet-the-People Session [SGEP editor: Nice photo] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:21:40 GMTChurch law has required Catholics over the centuries to comply with this abstinence as part of Friday penance.. though a combination of new church guidance and changing eating habits has eroded this habit (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:16:39 GMTJTC has found itself under the spotlight over the alleged unfair dismissal of former employee Geraldine Soh (satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:09:48 GMTMPs should not just depend on grassroots leaders to tell them about ground sentiment towards the Govt. Their comments come after Lim Hwee Hwa said Wednesday that PAP Aljunied GRC team was surprised the resentment towards the Govt was so deep (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 22:04:35 GMT['Workers must share in growth'] Mr Lee also spoke of the "unique system" of cooperation among the unions, Govt and employers. This "has stopped unions from being adversaries to squeeze employers out of business." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 21:57:38 GMTClearing the air on pensions [A minister's pension is based not on total monthly salary but only its pensionable component which has shrunk proportionately since 1994] Tan Kee Yong, Secretary to PMhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 21:51:46 GMTI refer to letter by Mr Matthew Yeo, "Unhappy? Swop places with me". On one hand, he praises the Govt and the efficiency of our society and perhaps the biggest compliment, he wishes to make S'pore his permanent home. On the other, he disparages S'poreans as "complaining, mollycoddled ... spoiled ... less tolerant" (3 letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 21:46:54 GMTOver the years, the simple deposit account has proliferated into many versions with varying features. These include savings, current, fixed deposit and structured deposit accounts. So how does one determine the type of deposit accounts he or she should go for? [Lui Su Kian is Managing Director, and Head of Deposits and Secured Lending, at DBS Bank] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 21:40:39 GMTIt seems to me buying car insurance does not protect the rights of honest drivers. What I've learnt is that next time, if I accidentally bump another car, I should not report it, and simply deny my existence when they come to my house - then I can walk away without hurting my no-claim discount! (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 21:35:48 GMTSDP will host up to 400 volunteers and members in a thank-you dinner tomorrow [Saturday] evening. As the name suggests, the event is to acknowledge the contributions of our campaign helpers to polls conducted recently (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 17:02:00 GMTLet public air views ahead of Parliament sessions.. also that every Parliament sitting be aired in full, whether live or recorded (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 14:13:02 GMTHas it 'suddenly become "affordable" overnight' that you have to 'swallow, ruminate and regret for another 5 more years', if you are not in Hougang or Aljunied GRC? Do follow up if you are keen on the "The Property Bubble & Investment Trap", post GE 2011. [De Leviathan@Sg]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 14:09:18 GMTThose who voted for the stronger Opposition parties did so for 3 main reasons... Those who voted for the weaker Opposition parties did so primarily for 1 reason alone... (Alex Au)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 13:21:52 GMTThe impact of new media on GE 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 09:56:17 GMT[Town council under new Aljunied MPs to take on all existing agreements] HDB released a statement Friday in response to media queries on handover of Aljunied Town Council following General Election on May 7 (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 09:38:08 GMT[Singapore People's Party aims high] Unveiling SPP's 5-year "comeback plan", Mr Benjamin Pwee outlined SPP's vision of collaborating with ordinary Singaporeans for a better future.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 09:28:30 GMT"It is neither effective nor sustainable for [PSD] Service to try to solve all these problems on our own. We need to tap on collective wisdom and knowledge of people and stakeholders.. We need to create an environment where public officers can work hand-in-glove with people they serve.." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 09:26:48 GMTAljunied residents dismiss 'uncleared rubbish' claims (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 08:24:05 GMTEric Tan quits WP over 'betrayal' [SGEP editor: Lots of Readers' Comments]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 08:19:46 GMTWe will share the work we did on monitoring of msm, and results of survey on voters about their polling experience. NTU's Cherian George will give us an overview of GE2011, and Yawning Bread's Alex Au will tell us what he saw on the ground (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 08:11:18 GMTIf this is any indicator of PAP's gerrymandering tactics... If this tells us anything about Opposition's character... If this is a reflection of public sentiment vis-a-vis election outcome... (Daniel Yuan - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 08:09:44 GMTNon-Constituency Members of Parliamenthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 08:07:01 GMT[Potong Pasir - The day after GE 2011] Although some of you might disagree with me, but I personally felt that the biggest loss in GE 2011 is Mr Chiam See Tong. Don't get me wrong, George Yeo is a great minister. But it's hard to compare anybody with a caring Opposition MP who have been serving S'pore for 27 years.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 04:32:03 GMTLetters from Vui Kong - The First Letter: Prison Lifehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 02:57:05 GMTIn the Straits Times on Thursday, 12 May 2011, on page A4, "Cynthia Phua promises proper handover", the following was reported.. (Joseph Teo - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 02:55:26 GMTMany people still think that Wong Kan Seng is the Minister of Home Affairs. He is no longer the Minister. The portfolio went to K Shanmugan in November 2010.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 02:39:41 GMTWorking mum struggling with work stress and office politics.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 02:25:19 GMTThe present rules have created a situation where desperate individuals are being exploited by some legal moneylenders with interest rates going up to even 500 per cent per annum in the event of default, in addition to unfair charges. We should admit there have been unforeseen and unanticipated consequences from changes introduced 2 years ago. Infallibility is for the divine and we are after all only human (Kuo How Nam, President, Credit Counselling S'pore - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 02:21:37 GMTMr Ong's letter ['Why part of silent majority voted differently'] suggests that the reason PAP lost votes in older landed estates was due to perceived inequality in the Govt's wealth-sharing schemes. Is he suggesting that these voters based their votes on perceived disadvantage in receiving official financial benefit, rather than what Opposition candidate could offer? (Dr Anthony Tay)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 02:06:05 GMTA random conversation with a PAP loyalist threw up many indignations of the other kind. He asks who is Nicole Seah, and how is a 24-year-old going to speak to Bambang Yudhoyono as an equal? He justifies ministers' million dollar salaries by pointing out.. (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 01:46:42 GMTTo misquote Oscar Wilde, to make 1 FaceBook mistake might be regarded as misfortune, but to make 2 smacks of carelessness (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 01:38:55 GMTBoth George Yeo, 57, and Lim Hwee Hua, 52, have announced their "retirement from politics". Since both are below the oft quoted retirement age of 62 for lesser mortals, the question arises if both of them are eligible for "retirement benefits" (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 01:32:03 GMTWe could have more Opposition members in parliament but we have only 6. As far as I'm concerned, I am grateful. Grateful for the following reasons.. (FeedMeToTheFish)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 01:29:51 GMTPolitical Education In S'pore: Beyond 'National Education'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 01:14:29 GMT[GRC AFTER GE 2011: USEFUL OR NOT?] It works fine. WP leader Low Thia Khiang has little reason to complain about GRCs because he accepted and contested in one, regardless of whether he was challenged by MM Lee or not. It is not easy to win in a GRC but as Aljunied GRC result illustrated, it may be more difficult to defend it (Kong Siong Kwong)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 00:14:21 GMT[GRC AFTER GE 2011: USEFUL OR NOT?] Time to scrap it. More than anything else, GE 2011 shows how wrong the GRC system is, because it produces results that go against the wishes of the entire electorate (Richard Seah)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 00:09:13 GMT[Tweak GRC system] PAP used GRCs to secure the return of ministers to office. This now seems fallible. Another reason to reform the GRC system is that office-bearers must earn their own stripes (Chew Yong Jack)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxFri, 13 May 2011 00:00:02 GMT[Review GRC format] As citizens, it is unsettling to know we might not be able to remove incompetent and undeserving office-holders, as candidates are voted in as a group, and not as individuals. Some serious research and reassessment of the GRC system should be undertaken. (Stephanie Foo)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 23:56:01 GMT[GRC system cost nation George Yeo] I strongly believe the time to discuss the viability of the GRC system has come, and the Govt needs to ask itself if this system has indeed become a monster that has turned on its creator (Deborah Tan)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 23:51:01 GMTI read with disbelief Mr Anthony Oei's letter ["Reality Check: It was a solid PAP Victory"]. As a concerned citizen, I think this is a most dangerous conclusion. PAP has just posted its worst GE result since independence (Lawrence Law)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 23:44:57 GMTI agree with Mr Anthony Oei ["Reality check: It was a solid PAP victory"]. Despite having quality Opposition candidates and an unfavourable time amid job security, transport and housing woes, it was a landslide victory for PAP. The majority trusted PAP's judgment and supported its policy decisions. They were not swayed by Opposition's arguments (Peter Koh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 23:41:05 GMTThis GE has raised expectations of people about politics in S'pore. The Opposition rode the wave of anti-PAP sentiment this time. Can it generate a wave of its own next time? (Boon Chin Aun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 23:36:39 GMTThe polls are over... But for some of S'pore's Opposition parties, the preparations for the next GE have already begun (satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:58:13 GMTWP decides to give NCMP seat to rookie Gerald Giam (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:51:51 GMTWP's Yee Jenn Jong set to accept NCMP seat (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:39:44 GMTPAP MP Charles Chong said the redrawing of electoral boundaries was one key disadvantage because at least one-third of the "real Joo Chiat" ended up in Marine Parade GRC. "I don't know why people accuse us of gerrymandering when the new boundaries were drawn. The Opposition claims they are disadvantaged. But this shows we are at an disadvantage too!" (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:35:09 GMT3 constituencies saw more than 10 per cent of their eligible voters fail to cast their ballots Saturday. The highest percentage of absentee voters was in Joo Chiat: 13 per cent, or 2,877 voters, out of the 22,000 registered (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:28:14 GMT'Many remain hurt by MM Lee's remarks' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:22:42 GMT[Why should X mark the spot?] Perhaps providing each voter with a sticker to paste on the box would be easier for both the voters and the Counting Agents (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:15:17 GMT[Look before you leap] The authorities should examine the pros and cons of high-frequency trading (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:10:47 GMTI have always advised potential new home owners or genuine upgraders that their main motivation to buy a property should be based on need and not greed. It was therefore quite worrying that, despite a significant ramping up of BTO launches over the past several quarters to reach new highs in recent years, the demand for new HDB flats has remained as strong as ever (Colin Tan - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:07:38 GMTthe mrbrown show: the yam song (music video)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 22:02:51 GMTS'pore rejects 6 recommendations considered as "based on incorrect assumptions or premises"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 21:59:58 GMTWhen liberty is eroded, democracy becomes volatile, and it turns into autocracy (Christopher Pang - newasiarepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 21:52:46 GMTA pivotal moment in the long, tortuous quest to find Osama bin Laden came years before U.S. spy agencies discovered his hermetic compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan (reuters)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 21:48:59 GMTNGOs form a coalition against the death penalty in Malaysiahttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 21:44:05 GMT[Subsidy - the cure for all woes?] The problem with the 'subsidy mentality' is that after a while, it becomes so ingrained that people begin to look at 'subsidy' as the solution to what we perceive to be a social problem. Now, it seems that a doctor (dentist?) is calling for doctors and dentists to be subsidised too!http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 12:52:43 GMTThe Workers' Party has decided which Aljunied GRC ward each of its elected MP will take charge of [SGEP editor: Lots of Readers' Comments] Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 12:45:55 GMTAn interview with MM Lee - entitled "From dark days to trade unionism" - appears in a special commemorative book. It is a story which starts in the turbulent 1960s, when pro-communists in the unions had a powerful grip on the Chinese-speaking unions (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 12:40:24 GMT['We almost had to pull him off the plane'] I am outraged that there are S'porean employers who do this to vulnerable people, without the slightest pang of guilt. But the question remains: How many others did not know where to get help? How many others have been fleeced by employers mindless about dishonouring our common honour as S'poreans, mindless about doing the right thing by another human being?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 12:30:43 GMT"PAP will decide if I'll contest in next GE" (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 12:20:34 GMT"Time to discard policies that divide S'poreans"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 12:17:12 GMTThe party said it believes this NCMP post is critical to ensure one other additional alternative party voice in Parliament, to stay engaged with national issues through Parliamentary debates, and to remain publicly visible in the eyes of all S'poreans for next 5 years (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 09:52:54 GMTLet's take a look at how the national seats could have been allocated, had Proportional Representation been applied in some way during GE 2011 (Icarus)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 09:21:13 GMT[Infographic] The world's Top 10 most valuable brandshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 08:24:18 GMTHK's securities watchdog said Thursday it fined a unit of Bank of America Corp 3 million HK$ over the sales of some financial products to clients in 2007. The Securities and Futures Commission said Thursday it also issued a reprimand to Merrill Lynch over sales of index-linked notes to 72 clients (ChinaDaily)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 08:21:17 GMTA former OCBC banker was charged in court Thursday with 189 counts of cheating involving more than S$61 million. 33-year-old Winnie Goh Li Ching allegedly committed the offences between 2004 and 2006 (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 08:15:24 GMTZainul Abidin Rasheed speaks... (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 08:10:48 GMTPAP should review GRC system introduced in 1988, with 3-member GRCs increasing to 6 members over time... when most GRCs experienced walkovers, this allowed the ruling party to bring in new candidates without them having to compete in an election. Another issue is the redrawing of the electoral boundaries before each GE. This practice should stop unless..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 07:54:05 GMTThis year's logo, which reflects the theme "Majulah! The Singapore Spirit!", will be captured in a 5-act musical that will take S'poreans down memory lane, from its tumultuous birth in 1965 to the present modern city-state (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 07:43:29 GMTOn 9 May 2011, SM Jayakumar said the fact WP won a GRC proves the political system in S'pore works, and does not benefit only, or "perpetuate" the ruling party's rule. I wish to rebut this comment. It is extremely difficult for any Opposition party to even contest in a GRC, let alone win one (Elliot Aruldoss - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 07:27:57 GMT[PAP searches for answers...] The great mystery here is not why people are angry and unhappy. The real mystery is how PAP with its vast grassroots network, meet-the-people sessions, feedback unit and forums can miss this. The answer to this question consists of 3 parts -http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 06:56:27 GMTWhy are cancer treatments not subsidized by the govt?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 06:31:01 GMT[Education debate with Dr Goh Keng Swee] Dr Tan shared about his debate on education, school syllabus and streaming with Dr Goh Keng Swee.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 04:30:51 GMT[Dr Tan helped a poor boy with Asthma] A video interview with Dr Tan who shared the story of how a poor farmer rushed into his clinic to seek treatment for his son with severe asthma.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 03:57:00 GMT2 words seem to be taboo in PAP. One is "democracy", while the other is "reform". To be transformed is merely to change appearances, leaving the party's repressive genes intact. It will be a cosmetic change that will fool no one. Political reforms, among other things, seek to eliminate abuses and unjust legislation (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 03:49:30 GMTYesterday.. In a Bloomberg survey on world's strongest banks, OCBC was number one, DBS was 5th and UOB was 6th. If I were a shareholder, I'd be upset that the banks were such inefficient users of capital because the stronger the bank is, the less its earnings potential (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 03:36:32 GMT[A turning point in S'pore] I met George Yeo casually at an international conference in S'pore in April last year. He was the luncheon speaker at one of the sessions. I must say I have never been impressed listening to a govt official of any country speak. He was different.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 02:38:44 GMT[PAP's "the next time" has arrived, Will they deliver?] Dear Mr Lee Hsien Loong: On May 3, 2011, you said "if we didn't get it right, I'm sorry. But we will try better the next time". Well, "the next time" has arrived.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 01:48:50 GMT24-year-old executive lost girlfriend due to work stress.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 01:30:28 GMTGeorge Yeo and His True Legacy for Singaporehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 01:28:04 GMT[Reflections on the S'pore GE] Ambassador K. Kesavapany is director of ISEAS. He is also S'pore's Non-Resident Ambassador to Jordan (EastAsiaForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 00:51:50 GMTIn 1959, when David Marshall was elected Chief Minister, he was not given an office to execute his duties. The mean British gave him a small table and a chair next to the staircase, like the desk of a security guard. That was the contempt the British rulers had for a locally elected leader of the people. Last night I watched the news and was shocked to see Yaw Shin Leong, MP of Hougang, conducting his MPS session in a void deck (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 00:44:34 GMTOMG... Yam Ah Mee is Popular in Australiahttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 00:35:35 GMTBeyond GE2011: PAP may shelve defamation as a political weaponhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 12 May 2011 00:31:30 GMT[Start reviewing key issues] I agree with Mr Chia that 'an HDB flat is a home first' ('Why this PAP backer opted for Opposition'). Asset enhancement is of no relevance when you have no money in your pocket. Overcrowding of transport is another issue. On the issue of foreign workers, there are many jobs S'poreans will not do, but a rethink of minimum wage might help S'poreans reconsider some of them.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 22:42:25 GMT[Why SLA must peg rent to market rates] SLA is generally required to charge market rental for state properties, and rent collected goes into the Consolidated Fund. Tenants would have paid market rental had they rented premises from the private sector. SLA would be subject to queries if it did not charge market rental (Lee Seng Lai, SLA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 22:36:01 GMT[Chiam's legacy: New MP Sitoh replies] I refer to Mr Liew Kai Khiun's letter. The projects we have in mind are not designed to disrupt or destroy the serenity and sense of community which Potong Pasir enjoys. It is not our aim to change the way in which residents of Potong Pasir have lived their lives - be it your familiar provision shops, open fields or private gardens.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 22:26:34 GMTA disinformation campaign that took forever to implement [An ever-so-slightly, tongue-in-cheek article] SgPoliticshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 21:44:20 GMTAs someone who volunteered for election duty both as a Polling Agent and a Counting Agent, I offer my thoughts [I am a S'porean in his 30s]. First, not everyone knows what to do. Second, not everyone gets their ballot slip right (Adrian Kwong - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 21:38:10 GMTLim Hwee Hua: 'It is a surprise for us that the resentment is so deep' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 21:31:30 GMTMP Yaw Shin Leong: I am my own man (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 21:29:24 GMTA variety of factors gave Sitoh the win (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 21:27:52 GMTThe majority of voters who voted for Opposition parties in the recent GE actually decided to do so quite early in the campaign; nearly half of them even before Nomination Day. Soon after that, about 60-70 percent would have decided (Alex Au)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 20:54:29 GMT150,000 PMET jobs to be given to Foreign Talentshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 20:42:51 GMTProof that we are over importing FTshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 20:40:43 GMTWhether it is through common support for a party or just shared experience, this election has brought S'poreans closer together in its few short weeks of activity. I urge all fellow S'poreans to sustain such enthusiasm and engagement in the nation's affairs even after the excitement has subsided - for we are the ones who truly define a democratic society (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 20:31:07 GMT[E-voting: As simple as shading a betting slip...] The Philippines has already started using electronic balloting and we are still using the paper ballot. We are supposedly the most advanced country in Asia yet we do not have e-voting. If we are a 1st World country, we should use 1st World systems to beat discrepancies (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 20:22:14 GMTI AM writing to express my disappointment at current state of the F&B venue at S'pore Botanic Gardens. It has been 6 months and an empty shell stands where what was once a popular spot with park visitors, nearby residents and workers (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 19:59:50 GMTThe ruling party has always bemoaned it has difficulty attracting talents into the S'pore govt. Since talents are hard to come by, the govt should harness them, whether they are from within the ruling party, or outside of it. S'pore may have lost a good minister George Yeo, but we have gained a ministerial potential Chen Show Mao (singaporenewsalternative)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 19:38:25 GMTThe Returning Officer, Elections Department... Dear Sir/Madam: I wish to bring to your attention several anomalies regarding the voting process on 7 May 2011 (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 19:32:05 GMTRally: PAP 1959 vs WP 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 19:25:44 GMTJust as Seet Ai Mee went down in history as the 1st minister to lose her office in an election, Lim [Hwee Hua] shares the dubious honor of being sacked by popular vote. Today, Lim said she'll head back to the corporate sector. It remains to be seen if she'll ever draw the same super-sized paycheck again. But quite definitely, she can kiss the 8 months GDP-linked bonus goodbye (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 19:05:48 GMTReflections on GE 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 18:53:01 GMTA Straits Times reader complains, "No room for proper debate in anti-PAP new media." That made me ask, why hasn't PAP made better use of the new media? (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 14:49:58 GMTElections Department releases final tally of voteshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 14:37:30 GMT[Anthony Oei's "Reality Check" - solid victory for PAP or workings of the GRC system?] Anthony's letter, published in big and bold fonts in ST forum, caught the eyes of many readers who criticized his argument at the online ST forum (Christopher Ong - kentridgecommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 14:33:55 GMTHow Aljunied GRC Was Lost: Importance of Correctly Identifying the Opponent's Themehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 13:37:51 GMTA Step on the Long Road to Political Pluralism? (Garry Rodan - AsiaSentinel)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 11:52:24 GMTWhile we have been preoccupied, our kids have grown up into young adults. It's easy to say we understand them but I think we are only deceiving ourselves. The young have developed a whole new culture.. and an outlook on life vastly different from their parents. Finger-jabbing and authoritarian politicians are as fashionable as drain-pipe pants (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 11:46:23 GMTThe PAP and the People - A Great Affective Divide (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 09:58:52 GMTFrom the night of May 7 through to the wee hours of May 8, S'poreans all over the world came together as one united, Internet people (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 09:23:03 GMTCriticisms of Tin Pei Ling are validhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 09:14:36 GMTWill there be a transformation? (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 08:51:57 GMTAt only 34 years old, this baby-faced dude has a tremendous upside, and could benefit most from a boost to his profile (Terence Lee - newnation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 08:38:15 GMTA new phase for Singapore, a new life for George Yeohttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 08:25:32 GMTLooks like PAP activists in Joo Chiat SMC don't like Charles Chong, the new MP (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 08:22:06 GMTJoel Kong's letter to JTC questioning wrongful dismissal of Geraldine Soh.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 08:18:39 GMTThe difference between "REFORM" and "TRANSFORM"http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 08:16:57 GMTHow many did not vote? (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 08:13:21 GMTAre you LISTENING?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 08:11:42 GMTDon't let us down - an open letter to all political partieshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 05:13:35 GMTThe defining moment down the slippery slopehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 05:12:22 GMTMrs Lim said she has served almost 15 years and that's a "reasonable" stretch.. she was also surprised by depth of resentment felt by citizens towards the govt. And while the PAP team was expecting a close fight in Aljunied GRC, she was still surprised by the outcome (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 04:33:38 GMTThe Recycling of PAP Ministers and the Fall of the US Dollarhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 04:24:50 GMTThe most popular S'porean public figure on FB is not a pop star, actress or athlete. Nicole Seah, 24, who lost as an Opposition candidate in Saturday's election, had close to 97,000 "likes" on her public FB page Tuesday, overtaking a page set up by supporters of S'pore's founding father Lee Kuan Yew, 87 (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 04:04:59 GMTMR Peter Woo assumes that S'poreans vote for the Opposition so they can enjoy 2 parties working for them. The election results prove voters have far more important considerations. The suggestion makes a mockery of the electorate's judgment (Chai Ming Fui - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 04:01:48 GMT[LESSON 1: Paradigm shift for the Govt], [Lesson 2: Economic success is not enough], [Lesson 3: The GRC system] Prakash Nair - STForumhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 03:52:06 GMTTHERE are three clear messages in this watershed election.. (Harvey Neo - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 03:48:36 GMTWP's call for a First World Parliament is seductive but it does not sway me, having seen its effects when I lived abroad where alternative voices to the govt proliferated. Those with a liberal slant often carry a romantic ideal of a democracy where politicians debate for the good of the people. Well, there have been many debates in these democracies, but name me one that has managed to achieve the good for most of its people, if not all? (Chan Jia Huan - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 03:46:09 GMTWhich way will George Yeo go? (Lester Lim - kentridgecommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 03:21:42 GMTSix months' wait - just to do a scanhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 03:14:22 GMTPAP membership of Jurong TC manager who sacked NSP supporter censored by state mediahttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 01:57:15 GMT5 Ways Social Media Has Impacted The Singapore General Election.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 01:55:31 GMTAccording to Economist Intelligence Unit's Democracy Index, S'pore is ranked a pathetic 82th in the world. The crowd that converged at the void deck were peeved residents of Potong Pasir who wanted to petition against the narrow defeat of 0.36% of the votes... pursuant to the Public Order Bill introduced in March 2009, one person standing for his constitutional rights is defined by the law as an assembly (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 01:52:53 GMTOn afternoon of Polling Day, my online poll "How and when did you decide your vote choice?" came live. It stayed open for slightly more than 72 hours, in which time 2,052 responses came in. I will be reporting results over several blogposts because it is such a massive exercise analysing the data. In Part 1, I will provide overall data about participants who did the survey (Alex Au)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 01:32:59 GMT...that they could only utter they empathized with people's plight, but questioned the poor if want to eat in hawker centre, food court or restaurant over $50. Only intense pressure in Aljunied jolted George Yeo into awareness, that anger of people was real. And only the last couple of days that they started to change tack.. Too much good food and good life is like having too much fat in the head (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 01:26:28 GMTSitoh Yih Pin remains silent while police try to disperse petitioners in Potong Pasir (Fang Shihan - newnation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 01:16:05 GMT[Analogy: MP replies] I refer to yesterday's letter by Mr Tommy Wee, president of Ifpas. I regret if my analogy of comparing some Opposition parties to unprofessional insurance agents had caused unhappiness in any way. It was certainly not my intention to stereotype, nor make disparaging remarks against the entire insurance industry in S'pore (Grace Fu, MP - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 01:13:34 GMTThough overly-demanding for some, individuals should take that leap of faith to trust that her learning processes would be accelerated considerably. In the bigger picture, her election and the articulations of disagreements that followed do send out strong signals in 2 areas: (guanyinmiao)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 00:14:44 GMT[Letter from Danny G Tan: Thankful, but we want to explore new options], [Letter from James Ang: Only natural to expect more], [Letter from Shirley Tan: Singaporeans are blessed] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxWed, 11 May 2011 00:03:28 GMTThis year's GE was my first since returning from overseas. I am delighted with the change and I think this is just the beginning. There is a lot more room for progress - for instance, media coverage, which many feel was skewed. Hopefully, this will change in time (Subana Hall - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 23:57:51 GMTWITH regard to MM Lee's remarks ["MM: Past struggles forgotten by young"], I would like to know if he has ever engaged the younger generation to know what the actual problem is. The fact is, the young have not forgotten the struggles of the past. We simply feel we have been forgotten by MM Lee and other PAP ministers in their quest for GDP growth (Muhammad Umar A. Kamaludin - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 23:51:39 GMTSDP can articulate its values with a kind of precision and intellectual rigor that no other Opposition party, not even WP, can duplicate as yet (Ng E-Jay -- SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 23:33:32 GMTMr Tan Jee Say said both parties are discussing internally with regard to this prospect but nothing has been finalised. "At this moment, there is nothing concrete, so I don't want to excite the public further." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 23:27:47 GMTS'pore has spent more than 20 years training this son to serve S'pore well, rotating him among several key ministries. Do not let him go. For S'pore's sake, I hope PM Lee will call for a by-election to get Mr Yeo back into Parliament (Nelson Goh, ex-YPAP Exco Member - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 23:20:29 GMT[I can haz Chen Show Meow!] Everyone deserves a LOLCAT photo. Especially someone who has the name Chen Show MAO.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 22:20:32 GMTWhere in Yeo's public statement did the reporters find the words to conclude "Foreign Minister George Yeo calls it quits in politics"? All he said was, despite wishes of his supporters, he would not stay on to win back Aljunied in 5 years time (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 22:15:53 GMTGeorge Yeo could be getting $?m pension a year .http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 22:08:25 GMTPoliticians have expressed sadness to the news of Foreign Minister George Yeo's decision to quit politics (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 22:02:23 GMTWhen asked if he is retiring from politics, Mr Yeo said: "Let's take it one at a time. My own view is, it is the responsibility of every citizen to be involved in politics because politics is about the way our lives are run collectively. So I don't think I'll ever retire from politics... And I've got beliefs, I've got views and if I can make contributions, I should." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 21:56:56 GMT[Many PAP members now feel the same about need for change] As to his future role in PAP, Mr Yeo said: "I'm no longer an MP. I will no longer be a minister. And in next party conference, I'll no longer be a CEC member. That's a reality which I have to accept." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 21:51:16 GMTAccording to witnesses, plainclothes police officers were seen at the void deck of block 108, Potong Pasir Avenue 1, where Mr Chiam See Tong conducts his Meet-the People Session (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 15:56:47 GMT"From whence we came": A young Singaporean's reponse to MM Lee's comments.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 15:50:26 GMTWith reference to newspaper reports about Mr Tan Jee Say approaching NSP for a possible merger of both parties, Singapore Democrats wish to clarify... The state media should not resort to sensationalism and exaggeration (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 15:04:16 GMT[video] Potong Pasir residents reaffirm support for Chiam See Tong and Opposition voice.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 14:49:23 GMTNow that Aljunied GRC has turned blue, the real test lies in making the relationship a long lasting one (Fang Shihan - newnation)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 14:46:16 GMT[Reader's comment: "If WP East Coast team wants to contest in next election in East Coast GRC again, they should accept the NCMP seat so that they can raise their profile which will be advantagoous for the next election, just like what Sylvia Lim had done."] Yahoo! Sghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 14:33:22 GMTMinority representation is important but even minorities should be voted in based on individual merit. I believe S'poreans are discerning and will vote in good candidates even if they are not from same race. Mr Michael Palmer is a good example. It is time to relook the GRC system before we lose more good men like George Yeo (letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 14:25:22 GMT[Life after the General Election] Life slowly returned to normal after excitement of Polling Day last Saturday. Evenings were no longer spent at muddy rally sites, nor do I constantly check Twitter and Facebook for latest updates. Below are some of my favourite memories from this GE:http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 14:09:29 GMTThe PAP In Decline, Drop LKY And Goh, And Reject The NCMP Postshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 14:05:26 GMTDo we stop and pick up the stragglers, even if it means turning back? (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 12:54:35 GMTThe Elections Dept has offered 3 NCMP seats to the best-losing Opposition candidates in the GE (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 11:22:24 GMT"It is possible SDP and NSP could merge to create a stronger presence. This would enable both parties to tap on professional expertise and experience of both sets of candidates, to provide different perspectives and voices for greater diversity and representation." (satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 11:18:49 GMT[Singapore is taking the first steps to true democracy] Our campaign proves people have had enough of one-party rule. With the help of new media, Singaporeans can shed their fear.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 11:09:59 GMTI hope he won't take the loss personally, as people voted against a party which has become increasingly arrogant and repressive. He has quashed speculation that he'd run for President, saying he lacks the temperament for it, for "...I'm a free spirit." A free spirit indeed! (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 10:14:56 GMTPopular blogger mrbrown: "..the GRC system lets the ruling party win big but now, we know they can also lose big. George Yeo just happened to be in the GRC that fell 1st. It probably won't be the last. I am surprised they didn't send reinforcements after the 2006 results." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 10:00:30 GMTNSP candidate Chong-Aruldoss does not consider her loss at the recent GE a defeat. Instead, she feels like it was a victory, having secured 41.35 percent of the vote. "9 days for people to take me seriously is not a lot of time. It's a tall order to squeeze so many things during the 9 days. There's only so much that can be done in preliminary stages." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 09:51:29 GMTAccording to this post on Facebook, it appears that a merger is possible: (sgfrag)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 09:38:09 GMTDemand a detail investigation into the sacking of JRTC member Geraldine Soh Shin Lin.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 09:34:51 GMT[The apology manifesto] The errors he [PM Lee] admitted were errors of execution or implementation. Nowhere did he concede that any of his govt's policies were wrong, or had caused suffering. To mean anything, these words have to be backed by action. I think the following 10-point plan should be minimum proof of sincerity.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 09:08:37 GMTThe staff of town councils in Potong Pasir and Aljunied GRC are worried they may lose their jobs with change of political masters. It is very unhealthy and should not be such, as innocent people should not be dragged into turmoil and tussle for political power. The town councils are not the only organization affected by this kind of arrangement (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 08:26:40 GMTThis photo needs a captionhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 08:15:11 GMTJurong Town Council Employee Sacked .... Allegedly for Supporting the Oppositionhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 08:03:58 GMTAttached below is a live transcript of what happened during the media conference (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 08:01:05 GMTGeorge Yeo's press statementhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 07:57:46 GMTGeorge Yeo said Tuesday he will not be contesting Aljunied GRC at the next GE (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 04:37:46 GMT[Counting agent me too] Sylvia Tan was also a counting agent, but assigned to a counting centre different from the one I was in. She submitted a set of drawings last night to show what marks were considered valid or invalid at the centre where she was.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 04:32:59 GMT[Political Poems, Star Gazing and Literature Texts] I think I have had an overdose of GE blogging. I'm going to take a break now and write about other stuff instead.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 04:29:46 GMTPolling day reflections (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 04:25:33 GMTThe electoral defeat of S'pore's foreign minister George Yeo has probably punched a huge hole in the PM's Cabinet formation plans (Editorial Desk, Straits Times)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 04:20:21 GMTOn polling night of Singapore General Electionshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 04:10:04 GMTI'm pretty sure most of you heard Tin Pei Ling posted a message on her FB during Cooling Off Day. You might also have read her explanation. Is this the so-called 4G leaders? FYI, there is an ongoing petition to remove Tin Pei Ling as MP (dk.sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 04:02:42 GMTCalls have emerged for removal of youngest MP-elect Tin Pei Ling, whose Marine Parade GRC team emerged victorious in the polls, and for reinstatement of incumbent MP George Yeo into Parliament after his PAP team lost Aljunied GRC to WP. The more prominent petitions include: (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 03:54:39 GMTIntended or not, Nicole Seah's words in a rally echoed the valuable lesson to be learnt from the [U.S.] Mogadishu triumph over adversity: No one gets left behind. The real life picture in S'pore's battle for the underdogs is not that pretty (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 03:45:10 GMTRelax PAP, you are not the only ones who screw up big time. "Big time corporate screw-ups." (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 03:37:30 GMTA new hopehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 03:32:52 GMTThe battle for 2016 starts nowhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 03:31:39 GMTWhen opposing is the loyal, royal thing to dohttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 03:30:22 GMTAutocracy, belief and controlhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 03:28:52 GMT[George Yeo In, Tin Pei Ling Out] The S'pore GE didn't really come to an end as drama continues on the Internet, specifically on Facebook.. has more than 30,000 'likes' within 24 hours and continues to grow rapidly (Willis Wee)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 01:17:24 GMTOpposition parties adopted different strategies in the GE to take on PAP. Some took the GE as a war and tried to cover every inch of the ground with every man they got. This proved to be very costly and wasteful, and ineffective against a superior enemy. WP and SDP adopted a strategy that turned weakness into strength (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 00:43:18 GMTmrbrown goes to a rallyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxTue, 10 May 2011 00:10:31 GMTThis article - "Physician, heel thyself" - was published in NYT on polling day. Written by an oncology nurse, it decried the fact that even today, a significant number of doctors do not respect nurses and the work they perform, dressing them down or treating them with condescension. Such things also happen in S'pore (SingaporeM.D.)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 23:26:48 GMT[Commentary: Dear PM Lee..] It is heartening to note you have made particular reference to "S'poreans", whereas in the past, it was always "residents" (PRs included). In the next few weeks or months, we will know whether is it just talk only? or are you actually putting your commitments into action. If you are doing the latter, then there are 2 actions that I hope to see being taken:http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 23:19:17 GMTWe are disturbed by Senior MoS Grace Fu's comments during a rally speech at Jurong East Stadium, in which she likened Opposition parties to insurance agents who show up once every 5 years... we hope S'poreans who attended the rally or read the report will not have a tainted view of the insurance industry because of Ms Fu's disparaging remarks (Tommy Wee, President, IFPAS - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 23:14:56 GMTAs a young S'porean, I am disturbed by MM Lee's remarks that my generation has forgotten the struggles of our past. But we do not owe PAP a living. PAP has failed to make itself fully relevant to my generation. Instead of ushering S'pore into a new era with stability and strength that only PAP can provide, the party has chosen to foist its brand of old-world 'stability' and 'strength' upon us. 'From whence we came' is not where we want to go (Daniel Yap - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 22:36:00 GMTMadam Maimunah Jaffar told MediaCorp: "I came to ask for a rental flat, on behalf of my mum, then for me. I'm very confident she can help the residents here." (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 22:10:03 GMT[Absentees could have affected results] .. in Potong Pasir SMC, winning margin was 114 votes. Where were 1,495 absentee electors who could have granted Mr Sitoh a better mandate, or helped Mrs Chiam retain SPP's seat? Similarly, 3,191 electors were missing in Joo Chiat SMC where a difference of 382 votes settled the outcome (Letters - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 22:05:22 GMTThe words used by Opposition parties made me feel there are many people out there who seem ungrateful. I am not some fervent PAP supporter but I am always grateful I live in such an organised country. I appreciate Govt's effort to make this a nice place to live in. MM, I am grateful. I remember. And I am only 37 years old (Letter from Jasmine Chua - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 21:58:21 GMT[Why is it S'pore voters "cannot remember", as MM says?] Which Govt has provided 85 per cent of the population with subsidised public housing, or efficient public transport without high state subsidies? Which govt gives you subsidised upgrading, not to mention a safe environment and good education system? But netizens cannot remember - even though most of them are beneficiaries of these policies (Letter from Lewis Kwong - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 21:53:17 GMTFellow Singaporeans, I think we have made a big mistake.... [ We thought putting WP team in Aljunied GRC is sufficient to wake PAP up and create a 1st world parliament, but denial runs deep in PAP - they still believe they have right answers to people's problems. Now it could be back to business as usual for PAP ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 21:27:50 GMTGE 2011 also saw some interesting fights elsewhere in S'pore. Among those include SDP's "A-Team" of Dr. Vincent Wijieysingha and Tan Jee Say, among others, contesting against Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan's team in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC (Christopher Ong - kentridgecommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 16:48:10 GMTYes, 60.1 per cent vote for PAP in May 7 elections marks a new low for the party since independence, but not by much when you look at election results since 1984... This election makes history in other ways.. (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 16:39:22 GMTEff around with the people again, and you can be sure we will do another George Yeo on you. [Caveat: Author, Belmont Lay, is the boyfriend of Nicole Seah and her election agent for GE2011. Read with discretion] newnationhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 15:08:15 GMTDr Vivian Balakrishnan said... many PAP policies are right but their implementation and communication can be improved. When asked about George Yeo's defeat in Aljunied GRC, Dr Balakrishnan said it is not the fault of the GRC system, and residents there have made their choice (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 15:01:21 GMTThe petition was started by residents themselves, with no affiliation to SPP or the Chiams. The constitutional and legal bases remain unclear, but what is plain to see is that residents of Potong Pasir still hold tremendous affection for the Chiams (Nigel Tan - satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 13:28:45 GMTWhat did WP do right, and PAP do wrong? Li Xueying of ST gave 6 reasons (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 13:22:23 GMTScenes from fellow Opposition party SDP's Assembly centre, as results for Hougang and Aljunied GRCs were released (sgfrag)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 13:16:47 GMTElaborating on the bigger picture, "Singapore must first grow the economy - by staying plugged into the world by attracting investments and talent, encouraging local enterprises to diversify, expand and move abroad." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 13:04:42 GMT[But which ground to work?] If other parties are serious about improving their vote-shares the next time around, they have to invest effort in groundwork as soon as possible. Wouldn't this mean incipient conflict as parties work the same ground? Another question that complicates matters is the near-certainty that electoral boundaries will be redrawn before the next GE.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 12:54:23 GMTIt has helped PAP reduce losses despite hugh dissents on the ground over immigration and holier than thou attitude. PAP needs the GRC system and perhaps, GE 2016, there may be super sized GRCs with 4-5 Ministers and 10 members per GRC (SSPT)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 10:49:10 GMTGE 2011 aftermath, random quick thoughts, and prognostications [This post is going to be written stream-of-consciousness style... ]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 10:23:51 GMTPAP secured 81 of the 87 elected seats in parliament. It won 11 of the 12 SMCs, and 14 of the 15 GRCs. But let's take a closer look.. (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 10:19:33 GMTLets strive towards a First World Parliamenthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 10:13:12 GMTThe displeasure of Tin Pei Ling continues. The poor girl is getting an undue amount of bad coverage which is very unfair and cruel to her. It may be not right to blame just a system. In fact there were 2. One is the highly promoted system of Tea Party that is deemed to be able to identify the best talents for political leadership. The 2nd flawed system is the GRC (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 06:32:06 GMTS'poreans want a truly representative Parliament to speak up for them. Not a cosmetic one filled with MPs who walked into Parliament via walkovers or coattails of ministers. Sometimes I wonder why smart PAP ministers labor under the notion that S'poreans can't think and see through their ruse. I've come to the conclusion that this stems from the desire to hang onto power at all cost (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 06:26:52 GMTWe are getting together with our volunteers this weekend to thank everyone for their enormous contribution to the election campaign effort. At the same time, we will use the opportunity to put together a coherent plan to serve the constituencies. Our main objective is to make a difference in people's lives and, in the process, set the party up to win in these wards in the next elections (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 05:01:27 GMT"The results have torn apart the veneer of contentment touted on the strength of impressive economic numbers, and exposed the bare realities that come with governance under the same power for too long -- social inequities, the hard knocks of inflation and increasingly unaffordable healthcare." (TheMalaysianInsider)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 04:12:51 GMTThe PAP has once again taken firm command of Parliament after Saturday's GE. However inroads made by the Opposition should serve as a wake-up call that it cannot be business as usual in future fights for the hearts and minds of S'pore's voters (OOI KEE BENG is a senior fellow at Singapore's ISEAS - TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 04:05:01 GMTIt did not mention any names - but S'pore reiterated last week that before accepting any new members, Asean had to consider geopolitical implications of further expansion. S'pore has the propensity to detect upcoming trends, big or small. Therefore when the island republic emphasises that geopolitics matters, it will (The Nation - Thailand)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 03:48:03 GMTAs a long-time resident of Potong Pasir and staunch supporter of SPP leader Chiam See Tong, I am saddened by his defeat and that of his wife Lina. I hope the most important legacy of Mr Chiam's 27-year tenure in Potong Pasir - moulding its soul to reflect noble ideals of sacrifice, service, humility, conviction and courage - will be shared and not erased (Liew Kai Khiun - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 03:40:30 GMTI refer to recent comments by Mr Mah Bow Tan and various PAP ministers on how rising property values have benefited S'poreans. Unless incomes increase at same pace as property prices, S'poreans will spend increasing proportions of their incomes on a place to live, leaving correspondingly less disposable income for other areas (Teo Chin Ghee Jeremy - TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 03:33:35 GMTThe Opposition has done well but it needs to grow to the next level. If it wants to win trust of voters and obtain a third of seats in the House, acting as an alternative voice alone is not enough... the Opposition must show voters it can run the country (Gerald Kok - STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 03:21:38 GMT[Why they made a difficult choice] Aljunied voters cite need to be heard and MM's 'repent' remark as reasons they voted for WP (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 03:14:38 GMTYam Ah Mee music to start Monday with.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 03:10:42 GMT[GE 2011: The Aftermath] At Singapore MD, readership hit an all-time high of 1,532 on 6 May, as varied opinions from our contributors generated spirited debates. Prof. Tambyah's SDP rally speech was especially contentious, resulting in a steady stream of comments and rebuttals.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 02:53:39 GMTPAP dominated the GE in S'pore but Opposition parties also scored some important victories as well (GlobalVoices)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 02:47:20 GMTOne is from the Opposition, while one hails from the ruling party. Find out what plans Pritam Singh and Tin Pei Ling have after their victories (AsiaOne)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 02:30:47 GMT'I will continue to fight for Potong Pasir' (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 02:26:04 GMTWhy isn't PAP able to fully harness the Internet?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 01:22:33 GMTXenophobia in S'pore has definitely gone awry. Calls for throwing out foreign talents culminated in chucking out a foreign minister. But not all is lost for their boy, George. According to a well placed mole, the generals in the cabinet [lots of them this year] hunkered down in the basement of an Oxley Rise residence, the place where all the lightning bolts originated (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 01:17:25 GMT[Work together to advance] Now that the elections are over, it is time for both PAP and Opposition parties to work together to improve S'pore's future. For starters, PAP should lift the Party Whip so that PAP members can vote against the party line in Parliament (STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 01:03:02 GMT[Questionable comparisons] SDP's Dr Vincent Wijeysingha asked, during one of his rally speeches, how it is possible... Can Dr Wijeysingha share the source of his intelligence? (STForum)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:59:02 GMTMr Toh Cheng Seong asked if WP sec-gen Low Thia Khiang has ever voted for govt policies that benefit S'poreans and S'pore ['Groupthink: What about WP candidates'] STForumhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:50:35 GMTThis letter is being circulated by e-mail. It explains the pension paid to ministers.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:48:41 GMTPenny, a 36-year-old mother of 3, was at a coffeeshop near her HDB flat celebrating the "best Mother's Day gift ever" with her husband and children. "Best gift" being that WP had won the Aljunied constituency (TheStar)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:36:49 GMTA new chapter for the SDP has just begun (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:32:37 GMTThe man who called for reform and reflection is gone. Would those who are staying feel they have fought a good fight and can go on as before, telling the people how great and deserving they were, and demanding for more pay and gratitude? (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:26:53 GMTThe GRC was conceived and designed to act like impregnable fortresses or motherships that could not be taken down. Results of this election show that several GRCs are as vulnerable as Aljunied. The Opposition parties have seen how it could be done and the next battle will be a different story (MySingaporeNews)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:19:49 GMTIn Retrospect Rhetorically: Why Aljunied Was Won (And Lost)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:07:15 GMTWith WP taking up to 8 seats in the next Parliament, S'pore could be taking the 1st steps towards a 2-party system (satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxMon, 09 May 2011 00:01:51 GMTHow GE 2011 proved me -- oh, so wonderfully! -- wronghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 23:53:57 GMTSPP set to unveil 5-year masterplan (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 23:46:17 GMTI think there is some funny business going on, says Chiam See Tong (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 23:42:37 GMT'We will have to adapt our policies' (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 23:36:48 GMTAlthough victorious, the PAP's share of the popular vote has dropped (Maxwell Coopers - freemalaysiatoday)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 23:29:00 GMTQuotes to console MMhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 22:18:08 GMTThe night of 7 May 2011 was probably the longest night in George Yeo's stellar political career. By 11 pm, it had become evident he would become the highest-ranking PAP minister in history to lose his seat in a GE (Nigel Tan - satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 22:13:58 GMTWhat George Yeo's loss means for Singapore [Simon Tay is chairman of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 22:02:32 GMTPost election, let the healing begin [The writer is asst professor of law at SMU's School of Law] TODAYhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:50:08 GMTElection Numbers : What they tell us...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:40:38 GMTThough the ruling PAP has again been given a huge majority, it must take stock and reflect on its poorest showing at the polls in modern history (satayclub)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:38:37 GMTGRC system makes a mockery of Singaporehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:35:17 GMTA Nation with Rotten Teeth (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:30:48 GMTWhat this election could mean for the GRC and political system (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:28:31 GMTHow did all the Opposition parties fare? (Christopher Ong - kentridgecommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:24:44 GMTPost-GE 2011, and the fire withinhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:19:51 GMTThe fall of Potong Pasir - a resident's accounthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:14:51 GMT[Chiam's supporters rally to seek by-election in Potong Pasir] I received an SMS at around 7 pm, asking S'poreans to go to Blk 108 Potong Pasir Ave 1, to sign a petition for another election at Potong Pasir SMC (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 21:02:50 GMTTin Pei Ling 'a factor' for weak results (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 16:50:50 GMT[81:6] May 7 2011 is the day the flaws of the GRC system came to light. This is a wake-up call. S'pore cannot wait another 5 years. It is time to put an end to this gross distortion of democracy. It is time to abolish GRCs, and build a democratic society, based on justice and equality.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 16:34:48 GMT[Counting agent me] I shall take this opportunity to describe what happens at a counting centre, based on my first-hand experience.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 15:12:23 GMTPotong Pasir residents hold petition for by-election: Help support it now! Petition needs to collect 8,000 signatures by Monday (Christopher Ong - kentridgecommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 15:01:04 GMTEven though GE is over, Nicole Seah was seen walking the ground and talking to residents Sunday. "I think there is so much that needs to be done, so much more. I definitely want to continue staying here, to continue working the ground." (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 14:56:05 GMTExcept for that spearhead [Aljunied GRC] victory, and Low's protege's impressive debut at Hougang, Singaporeans may not have much else to celebrate (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 13:36:03 GMTGeorge Yeo created history even as he lost his seat (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 13:23:54 GMT'Singapore can't go on auto-pilot' (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 13:20:14 GMTShould WP give up its NCMP seats to NSP, SDP or RP? (Christopher Ong - kentridgecommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:58:14 GMT'We are coming back' (ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:55:00 GMTLow Thia Khiang calls for smooth Aljunied handover (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:52:34 GMTOur photographer Wong Yuntian was at Hougang stadium to capture the celebratory mood of WP supporters last night. They filled three quarters of the stadium and waited till 3am for the final results. They did not wait in vain (Wong Yuntian - The Enquirer)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:45:00 GMTTin Pei Ling "a factor" for weak results (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:38:09 GMTTOC's effort at raising funds has been hampered by PMO gazetting us as a political association. Now, only S'poreans can keep TOC going. Donate - to keep The Online Citizen alive! Thank you! (Ravi Philemon - TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:34:15 GMTLet's plug the cracks that some talented students may inadvertently fall through in the education system (Kelvin Teo - NewAsiaRepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:25:43 GMTGRC: A Gross (mis)Representation of our Community.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:19:37 GMTWP Aljunied GRC team speaks... (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 12:12:06 GMTGeorge Yeo loss saddens ASEAN leaders (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 10:26:48 GMT[WP seeks PAP's cooperation to take over Town Council] Low Thia Khiang also hopes there won't be 'any sabotage' like what he encountered in 1991, when he was first elected in Hougang SMC (ST)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 09:30:32 GMTGE 2011 Post-mortem: Moving towards a 2-party systemhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 09:07:15 GMTMessage to PAP supportershttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:57:02 GMTPolitician Tin Pei Ling Faces Facebook Petition Troublehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:53:11 GMT[video] Singapore Opposition make 'landmark' election gainshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:47:42 GMTWP's Yaw wins convincing victory in Houganghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:29:36 GMTThe Watershed 2011 Singapore GE - The Result of WP Strategy vs PAP's Juggernauthttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:26:38 GMTGE 2011: What do the results mean?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:21:39 GMTThe day afterhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:19:01 GMTAssessing the Generational Shift Effect in GE 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:16:02 GMTThe election results, summarizedhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 08:13:51 GMTGroundwork, good candidates and consistent branding, part 2http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 05:47:36 GMTPictures of WP at Hougang Stadiumhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 05:44:24 GMTWe want to thank all of our supporters who stood by us in this elections. Many of you volunteered your time and energy to help in the campaign and we are grateful. Once again, from all of us at the SDP: Thank you (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 05:05:50 GMT[George Yeo out, Tin Pei Ling in] Losing a high calibre minister is bitter pill to swallow. This certainly calls for re-examination of the GRC system (Chan Jia Hui - newasiarepublic)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 05:00:44 GMTTo the brave people of Aljunied GRC: I salute you. You have made history by opening a new chapter. All we needed was one spark, and you have obliged. Thank you (rogerpoh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 04:12:59 GMTIn 2006, Aljunied was won by PAP by 56%. Based on that, the following GRCs are vulnerable and the ministers these GRCs are helming should be afraid, very afraid... (Thoughts of a Cynical Investor)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:44:16 GMTThe PAP's Waterloo in Aljuniedhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:40:06 GMTA new chapter and a time for healing.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:38:15 GMTThis is just the beginning (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:36:41 GMTWhere do Chee and the SDP go from here? (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:35:23 GMT[They're down - but not out] Not the end of our political careers, say the other Workers' Party members (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:34:09 GMT'Distinct shift' in political landscape (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:31:50 GMTAn emotional journey for both teams (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:27:43 GMTAMK GRC stands out (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:26:28 GMTSun sets on Opposition veteran's career (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:24:51 GMT'Almost too good to believe' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:20:38 GMTSDP team: 'Not enough time' (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:18:56 GMTAmy Khor scores big (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:16:29 GMTYaw Shin Leong scores bigger win than Low did in last election (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:14:45 GMTCharles Chong takes Joo Chiat after close contest (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:12:48 GMTWe hear you, says SM Goh (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:11:08 GMTAnger and disbelief as Potong Pasir falls to PAP (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:09:21 GMTHe got 3rd time lucky (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:08:00 GMTMah vows to take this 'lesson' very seriously (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 03:06:00 GMTElection Results : Joy, Sadness and Optimismhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 02:49:52 GMTHistoric gains for Opposition in Singapore electionhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 02:47:39 GMTSingapore should adopt a system of Nominated Ministers who can be appointed outside parliament [TKL website]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 02:24:19 GMTIt is time for the smaller political parties to merge and become stronger.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 02:22:57 GMTPAP wins again, opposition makes breakthroughhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:56:34 GMTSingapore's ruling party loses multi-seat constituencyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:50:51 GMTWhat Do You Think of the Election Results?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:47:20 GMT[My journey continues on] Dear voters of Joo Chiat SMC, dear Singaporeans..http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:45:49 GMTTonight and the Next 5 Years (TemasekReview)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:42:29 GMTOpposition parties reflect on post-election results (CNA)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:38:40 GMTWill the PAP listen?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:31:19 GMTWP wins Aljunied GRC: PAP has to reform or else...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:29:58 GMTSingapore 2011 election results compared with 2006 resultshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:28:24 GMTBitter sweet victory for SM Gohhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:19:24 GMTWP establishes itself as Singapore's premier Opposition party (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:15:48 GMTBe afraid, very afraid PAPhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:12:31 GMTGE 2011 roundup and analysis (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:10:41 GMT[We Love Robocop] I think you will agree with me when I say the Man of the Hour is Returning Officer, Yam Ah Mee, a.k.a. Robocop a.k.a. Justice Bao.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:06:07 GMTThe daft Singaporeans votedhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 01:03:04 GMTWhat will happen to George Yeo? (kentridgecommon)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:53:37 GMTGroundwork, good candidates and consistent brandinghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:50:52 GMTThe Elections are over... Now what?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:49:08 GMTTo all PAP voters...http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:46:06 GMTWhat next for the PAP?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:43:12 GMTLow Thia Khiang wins big. What's next?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:41:37 GMT"A new chapter has opened in Singapore's history. It's a tide which we were not able to overcome, but that's life." (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:34:34 GMTWhy it's time to end the GRChttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:31:20 GMTLow Thia Khiang keeps promise, WP makes history (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:22:07 GMTThe four-hour drive for choicehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:11:45 GMTHougang remains an Opposition stronghold (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:07:43 GMTChiam's fall marks end of an era (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:05:22 GMTI am responsible for the failures (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:02:57 GMTWe fought a principled fight (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSun, 08 May 2011 00:00:21 GMTLow Thia Khiang explains it, "Such a counting system allows PAP to know which cluster of of flats or areas contained more Opposition supporters so that they can redraw boundaries to their advantage [at next election]." This is the crux of their gerrymandering (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 07 May 2011 17:18:26 GMTUnesco cites Singapore blogs, raps mainstream media (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 07 May 2011 17:11:00 GMTBefore the deluge of apologies, a flood of tears came first. If there was a pun intended, this has to be watershed election of sorts. It's easy to see through the charade of the sorries, but what of the tears? (SingaporeNotes)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 07 May 2011 15:32:23 GMTPAP: With candidates like these, who needs enemies?http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 07 May 2011 15:02:26 GMT[A New Political Reality in S'pore] Tonight a group of friends will gather in my house to witness a historic event in S'pore Politics. S'pore politics is not going to be the same as before. If the citizens want more accountability and transparency, new media will be their platform.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxSat, 07 May 2011 14:37:29 GMTSingaporeMDhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:57:37 GMTTNP, still buay pai seh.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:55:03 GMTPAP's chaotic campaign staggers towards finish line (Andrew Loh)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:46:30 GMTVoting and an outline of PAP's performance in recent years (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:44:41 GMTThe slowly-hoisted dream of Aljuniedhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:42:59 GMTVoting along municipal lines: Penny-wise, Pound Foolishhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:41:33 GMTVote for the future (TOC)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:40:11 GMTYour Vote, Your Valueshttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:35:54 GMTMrs Jeannette Chong Aruldoss - the Everyday Superwomanhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:30:42 GMTWP rally at Serangoon stadium Thursday.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:29:14 GMTWake-up call to reconnect with the people (TODAY)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:27:28 GMT"My good country is turning into a soulless, heartless, greedy company and I do not want my country to be a slave factory," NSP Goh Meng Senghttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:25:28 GMT[Why this Singapore GE is important] Change is in the air and come Saturday, S'pore could become a whole new nation.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:22:12 GMTChiam seeks to make Bishan-Toa Payoh 'his kind of town'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:18:12 GMTVote for our present and our future, not our past (trulysingapore)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:15:55 GMTNSP's Nicole Seah breaks down during rallyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:09:35 GMTKey issues that have not been addressed (Yahoo! Sg)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:06:35 GMT[video] WP held its 8th rally at Serangoon Stadium on 5th Mayhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 15:03:07 GMTSDP lunch-time rallyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 14:54:17 GMTReflect on the issues and vote wisely for our future (SgPolitics)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 14:37:52 GMTRally Speech by Sylvia Lim - 5 May 2011http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 14:30:11 GMTWe have come to the end of our campaign for GE2011. Now it's up to you. You will go to the polls on Saturday and you will vote for your future. We hope we have earned your vote. Vote for the party that can serve you well. Vote for a party that is Competent, Constructive and Compassionate. Vote SDP.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 14:24:26 GMTIn the past, we have had insufficient number of polling agents and as a result, many of the polling stations were staffed with only PAP members. Please help us at this final hurdle and register to be our polling agents. You can opt to perform entire 12-hour shift, or do only part of it (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 14:19:53 GMTWe have received numerous emails from S'poreans saying how they have been fooled by state-media into thinking Dr Chee Soon Juan is bad for S'pore. We reproduce a small sample of the emails we have received in this topic in just the last few days (SDP)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 14:13:21 GMTPeople's power at Aljunied rallyhttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 14:07:55 GMT'Did you do your part for Singapore in Aljunied?'http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 14:00:30 GMTRemorse must come with substance - and only you, the voter, can ensure that.http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 13:47:01 GMTEnd the PAP system of patronagehttp://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 13:45:04 GMTPAP has to be transformed (pressrun)http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 13:39:51 GMTPeople, Parties and Possibilities [Dr Gillian Koh is Senior Research Fellow of the Institute of Policy Studies at the LKY School of Public Policy, NUS]http://easyapps.sg/SGEP/Latest.aspxThu, 05 May 2011 13:30:51 GMT