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Source: https://www.todayonline.com/world/10-killed-after-2-malaysian-military-helicopters-collide-mid-air-2409031 KUALA LUMPUR — Two Malaysian military helicopters collided and crashed during a training session on Tuesday (April 23), killing all 10 crew onboard, the country's rescue agency said. Footage shared online showed several helicopters flying low in formation over the Lumut naval base, located about 160km from the capital Kuala Lumpur. The helicopters were participating in a flypast rehearsal ahead of Naval Day celebrations in May. One chopper was seen clipping the rear rotor of another, causing both to go into a tailspin and crash. "The two helicopters collided during flight training," said Mr Suhaimy Mohamad Suhail, senior operations commander from the fire and rescue department, adding that all 10 crew members on board were confirmed dead by medical officers. The two aircraft involved were a Eurocopter AS555SN Fennec and an AgustaWestland AW139, the rescue agency said. Photos showed the Eurocopter model heavily mangled in the wreckage on the naval base stadium track with rescue personnel surrounding it as well as various debris. The AgustaWestland helicopter crashed at the naval base's swimming pool area. 'NATIONAL HEROES' Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sent his condolences to the families of the victims, saying "the nation mourns the heart-wrenching and soul-wrenching tragedy". "I was informed that an immediate investigation will be carried out by the Ministry of Defence, especially TLDM (Royal Malaysian Navy), to find the cause of the crash," he said. Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar also shared condolences. "Queen Zarith and I feel very sad over the loss of national heroes in this tragedy," he said in a social media post. Helicopter crashes are not uncommon in the Southeast Asian nation. Last month, all four people onboard a Malaysian coast guard helicopter were rescued after it crashed in the Strait of Malacca. The helicopter was on a training flight when it plunged into the waterway, a narrow shipping lane which runs between Malaysia and the Indonesian island of Sumatra. Two people were killed in 2020 when a pair of helicopters from the same Malaysian pilot school collided during a training flight, according to authorities. In 2016, a deputy minister was among those who died after a Eurocopter AS350 crashed in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. AFP

He has strong support from Singaporean. He has done well. Schooling retires: Tributes pour in for Jo, who made us proud to be Singaporean Source: https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/joseph-schooling-made-us-really-proud-to-be-a-singaporean SINGAPORE – On the Saturday morning of Aug 13, 2016, full-time national serviceman Dashan Kumaran is seated on a ferry from Pulau Tekong to the SAF Ferry Terminal in Changi. It is no regular commute this time. All eyes on the vessel are glued to the TV screen as national swimmer Joseph Schooling dives into the pool over 15,000km away in Rio de Janeiro. And 50.39 seconds later, the crowd breaks out in hearty cheers as their countryman claims Singapore’s first Olympic gold medal, winning the men’s 100m butterfly final. Kumaran, now a 26-year-old media professional, remembered how everyone was transfixed by the race, and the pride and ecstasy that followed. He said: “We were united in willing Joseph Schooling to win, and I still remember the whoops of joy and goosebumps as everyone on board went wild when he actually did win. At that moment, I felt really proud to be a Singaporean.” The sports fan is among the many who have paid tribute to Schooling after he decided to call time on his career. Singapore Aquatics president Mark Chay said: “He broke the glass ceiling and proved that with hard work and the right approach, Singaporeans can win Olympic gold in a highly competitive sport like swimming. He had and continues to have a direct and positive impact on the sport. “His legacy as Singapore’s first Olympic gold medallist will never be taken away. Even as he calls time on his competitive career, I hope he continues to contribute to aquatics and perhaps takes on leadership roles either locally or internationally.” Sprint queen Shanti Pereira, who won the women’s 200m gold at the Asian Games, added: “He put Singapore on the sporting map, so many people know Singapore because of what he did. “It was an incredible moment not just for Singapore sport but every Singaporean too because in such great moments, the nation comes together and embraces the fact that our country is represented in this way.” Schooling’s historic moment in Brazil sparked more than just joy and celebrations back home, as his exploits against a star-studded field that included 23-gold Olympic champion Michael Phelps galvanised a nation and inspired a generation of young swimmers. It also raised the profile of the sport here, as The Straits Times reported swim schools receiving between 20 and 200 per cent more inquiries in the week after his win. National men’s 50m, 100m and 200m breaststroke record holder Nicholas Mahabir shared how he had always wanted to play water polo, until he witnessed Schooling’s Olympic triumph. The 18-year-old, who asked Schooling for a wefie when training with the national youth water polo team at the OCBC Aquatic Centre in 2019, said: “Any time it gets hard for me, I just think if Jo can do it, why wouldn’t anyone else be able to do it?” Schooling’s teammates also paid tribute to their senior, noting the strong work ethic that propelled him to the top, his strength in adversity and his kind nature outside the pool. Jonathan Tan, who has qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics in the 50m freestyle, said: “You can tell when he is not having a good session because he won’t be particularly happy. You can see he cares and it affects him when he is not doing well, and he will find solutions to swim faster. Even if he is not at his best, he never gives up.” The 22-year-old also recalled how Schooling encouraged him after the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay team were disqualified in the final at the Hanoi SEA Games in 2022. Schooling’s influence also extended beyond the swimming pool. National badminton player and 2021 world champion Loh Kean Yew remembered watching Schooling’s 2016 race at the Singapore National Olympic Council’s office. The 26-year-old said: “It was awe-inspiring to see a Singaporean beating world-class rivals to stand on top of an Olympic podium. As I was starting out on my own full-time sports journey, Schooling proved it is possible for an athlete from a small country like Singapore to achieve big things at the highest level.” Former national swimming coach David Lim, who worked with Schooling before he moved to the United States, recalled marvelling at his “tremendous” kicking ability. The 57-year-old also paid tribute to Schooling’s parents, May and the late Colin, who believed in and helped their son achieve his dream of becoming an Olympic champion. He said: “Parents here are afraid of losing out. When their children are caught out by examinations and grades, the first thing to go is sports. This is why as a coach, I really appreciate parents who do not worry about grades and allow their children to put their heart and soul into swimming.” Perhaps more than most, Spanish coach Sergio Lopez has had a front-row seat to Schooling’s development as the pair first worked together at The Bolles School in Florida from 2010 to 2014. They would later reunite for the Olympics in 2016 and 2021. Paying tribute to his protege whom he described as goal-oriented and hard-headed, the 55-year-old former Singapore national coach said: “He wanted to be the best, and he wanted to be an Olympic champion. I had to navigate through his growing pains to teach him to stay the course and to fight and work for the dream. “But that’s what makes him, Ryan Murphy, Caeleb Dressel and Kevin Cordes champions. Swimmers I’ve coached at that level are hard-headed and they are special. “At the ready room in Rio, we chatted a little bit, I gave him a hug, and he told me, ‘Sergio, don’t worry, I got this’, and I got goosebumps from how much he believed he was going to win.” Lopez noted that it is important for world-class athletes to be able to turn the chapter and move on from their competitive careers. He added: “The process to get that gold medal is relevant for the lessons he has learnt. Jo has had, for his short life, an amazing and impressive and interesting life full of experiences that hopefully he can bring to the table to his business, to his country, to help younger kids find their dreams.”

You wanna be the brave soul to test the system?

Consumer Reports’ New Annual Auto Reliability Data Reveals Safest Bets and Riskiest Choices Among New Vehicles Lexus achieves top spot among automakers in auto reliability brand ranking with Mazda, Toyota, close behind. Buick continues as the most reliable domestic brand--and the only one in top 10. https://www.consumerreports.org/media-room/press-releases/2021/11/consumer-reports-new-annual-auto-reliability-data-reveals-safest-bets-and-riskiest-choices-among-new-vehicles/ Release date 11/18/2021. YONKERS, NY — Eight of the top ten most reliable brands are from Asia, and only one--Buick--is a domestic, according to the latest Annual Auto Reliability data from Consumer Reports (CR), the nonprofit research, testing, and consumer advocacy organization. But there were some positive indicators for the domestics, too, as American models topped seven vehicle categories--an unusually strong showing. The 2021 Auto Reliability Report is based on data collected from CR members about their experiences with more than 300,000 vehicles in the annual surveys. The survey findings were announced at an online news conference before the Detroit-based Automotive Press Association today. Owners reported everything from transmissions needing replacement after as little as 5,000 miles to display screens that required hardware replacement and misaligned tailgates and doors. "With new-car prices at all-time highs and a shortage of vehicles on dealers’ lots, it’s more important than ever to consider reliability when you invest in something new,” said Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing at Consumer Reports. “Buying a reliable vehicle can help ensure that you’ll be able to hit the road when you need to, and not worry about getting stuck waiting on parts for repairs.” Other highlights from CR’s influential annual report include the following: Despite their complexity, hybrids and plug-in vehicles are among the most reliable models. High-end electric-powered Sport Utility Vehicles are among the least reliable vehicles, but NOT because of their relatively simple powertrains. Complex electronics are their Achilles Heel, at least for now. Some Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Toyota models continue to have problems due to technologically advanced, and complex, transmissions. CR’s auto statisticians calculate reliability ratings for every major mainstream car, minivan, SUV, and truck on the market, even ones that are brand-new and redesigned for 2021. To do so, the team analyzes annual CR member surveys data on a model’s reliability history, calculating the brand’s overall reliability and, if applicable, the reliability of models that use some of the same components. Consumer Reports’ analysis of new-car reliability is a key element of CR’s Overall Score, which is a holistic measure of a vehicle’s quality designed to make it easy for consumers to quickly find the best cars, SUVs, and trucks to suit their needs. The Overall Score also includes road-test performance, owner satisfaction survey results, whether a vehicle comes with key active safety systems, and results from crash tests, if applicable. “The pandemic is creating a scramble for consumers as they face a reduced supply of new cars and significantly higher prices. That's why it's more important than ever that people get trusted help finding safe, secure, and reliable vehicles,” said Marta Tellado, President and CEO of Consumer Reports. “Our annual reliability reports, combined with our comprehensive auto testing, can empower consumers with the trusted information to make better purchases and navigate this unusually difficult marketplace.” Eight of the 10 Top Brands are from Asia Of the top ten most reliable automakers, eight are headquartered in Asia, with Lexus, Mazda, and Toyota in the top three spots respectively. Historically, Lexus and Toyota have regularly been at the top of CR’s brand rankings for reliability. That’s an especially noteworthy accomplishment for Toyota, which has a wide array of different nameplates in the survey--13 in all. Mazda, which was the top brand overall last year, falls to second place. Mazda’s above average overall performance was marred by the Mazda3 small car, which has average predicted reliability due to problems with its climate system and in-car electronics issues. Mazda has a conservative design approach with shared platforms and similar components, which helps it to produce reliable vehicles overall. Mazda has also stuck with its dependable six-speed automatic transmission while other automakers use more complex ones with eight or nine ratios or continuously variable transmissions, some of which have proven troublesome. All Lexus models score average or better for reliability in CR’s report. The Lexus GX SUV is the most reliable new vehicle overall this year; owners reported no problems for the three model years that CR analyzed in the brand rankings. The UX is Lexus' only average model. Third-ranking Toyota has only one model scoring below average, the Corolla Hatchback; CR’s members reported issues that required a transmission replacement or rebuild. The RAV4 remains average mostly because of problems filling the fuel tank on some versions. The Tacoma and the redesigned-for-2021 Sienna are both also average; the Sienna showed some power equipment problems. Both the RAV4 Prime and Venza, new for 2021, are well above average. Infiniti ranks fourth overall, an admirable improvement of six spots this year. The Q50 sedan remains impressive and the troublesome QX50 SUV improved to average. Buick is the most reliable domestic brand, coming in at fifth place overall. The Encore and redesigned Envision are both well-above average, and the Encore GX is above average. Surprisingly, the Enclave drops to below average, with transmission, drive system, and blank in-car electronics screen issues. High Rankings for Several Domestic Models Mark Signs of Improvement for U.S. Manufacturers Models from five domestic brands, Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Chrysler, and Ford, take the top spots in seven categories--an unusually strong showing. They include: Buick Envision (Luxury Compact SUVs) Chevrolet Trailblazer (Subcompact SUVs) Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and its twin the GMC Sierra 2500HD (Full-sized Pickups) Chrysler 300 (Midsized/Large Cars) Ford Bronco Sport (Compact SUVs) Ford Mustang Mach-E (Electric SUVs) Ford Ranger (Midsized Pickups) CR’s data also shows that hybrids and plug-in vehicles are among the most reliable models even though they have unusually complicated drivetrains. These vehicles include the Honda Insight, Kia Niro and the Toyota Prius, Prius Prime, RAV4 Prime, and Venza. One likely reason for their reliability is that most of these are well-established models that haven’t seen radical changes over the years. Even the new-for-2021 Venza uses a tried-and-true powertrain. The analysis also shows that fully-electric SUVs are among the least reliable vehicles. They include the Tesla Model X and Y, Audi E-Tron and Volkswagen ID.4. All have a high rate of problems in areas other than the electric powertrain. Some of these problems include climate controls, in-car electronics, and power equipment. Honda Ranks Sixth in Brand Rankings Honda ranks sixth among brands, down one from last year, with the Insight scoring well-above average. The CR-V, Accord, and Ridgeline score above average and the remaining models are all average. Both the Passport and Odyssey have improved, though owners still report issues with the infotainment system freezing and power equipment. Some Odyssey owners also report problems with the sliding doors. Subaru comes in seventh overall. The Crosstrek is well-above average, and the Legacy, Impreza, and Forester are above average. However, the Ascent still has subpar reliability. Acura's rank is eighth overall. The TLX has exhibited impressive reliability in its first year after a redesign, and the redesigned 2022 MDX has above average first-year reliability after below-average reliability with its previous generation. The RDX improves from below average to average, though it still has ongoing issues with brakes, power equipment, and in-car electronics with the display screen freezing and needing hardware replacement, and software updates failing. Nissan improves this year, moving up to ninth place--mostly because of older models including the Rogue Sport, Murano, and Leaf, which show impressive reliability. Mini rounds out the top 10, making it the highest-ranked European automaker this year. Mini only has two models in the survey, the Cooper Countryman and Cooper/Clubman, and jumps 13 places in the standing. The jump is mainly attributed to its Cooper Countryman's outstanding reliability. Hyundai falls four positions this year to rank eleventh. The redesigned Tucson is well-above average, and the Sonata and Palisade are also above average. The Kona Electric and freshened Santa Fe are below average, with, respectively, battery pack and electric drive motor problems, and transmission and power equipment issues. Kia drops three to 19th place this year, with transmissions being the brand's weak spot. The eight-speed dual clutch transmission that is used with the turbo engine in the redesigned Sorento is problematic. Owners of the Soul, Seltos, and Forte report a problem-prone CVT that could require replacement. The Niro Electric improved and the Telluride remains outstanding. Genesis’ reliability is suffering as the brand rapidly grows with new models. While the G70 has improved to average, the new GV80 SUV scores well-below average due to infotainment screen and drive system problems. Four Domestic Brands are Midpack Domestic brands are midpack or below--Chrysler at 12th, Chevrolet at 14, Cadillac at 16th, and Ford at 18th. Jeep, Tesla, and Lincoln took the three bottom ranks. Chrysler has just two vehicles in the survey--the 300, which has outstanding reliability, and the Pacifica minivan, which is well-below average due to issues including the transmission and sliding doors. Chevrolet models spread across almost the entire range of CR’s reliability scale--some excellent and some subpar. The new Trailblazer SUV and the Trax are both excellent. After years of respectable reliability, the Bolt EV dropped to below average, due to battery problems and electric drive failures, among other issues. The Silverado 2500HD and Blazer are above average. Others, including the Corvette and redesigned Tahoe, are well-below average. GMC's rank dropped because of similar problems as twin models from Chevrolet. The Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Canyon are all below- or well-below average. GMC’s only above-average vehicle was the Sierra 2500HD. Cadillac improved six spots this year, helped by the reliable XT5 SUV. The XT6 and XT4 are below- and well-below average, respectively. Ford is showing improvement this year, with the new Bronco Sport, Mustang Mach-E, and Ranger all at the top of their classes for reliability. But the redesigned F-150 scored below average, as did the Escape. Both the Mustang and the Explorer are well-below average. Ram drops the most in CR’s brand ranking this year, sliding twelve spots to 21st. While the Ram 2500 and 1500 are both average, the 1500 Classic (the previous generation 1500) has well-below average reliability marked by problems with brakes, emissions systems, engine, and power equipment. Jeep ranks 26 and among the bottom three brands. The company’s most reliable model last year, the Gladiator, fell below average. The Cherokee and Wrangler are both below average. The Wrangler has issues with the drive system, in-car electronics, and, like the similar Gladiator, with the steering and suspension. The Cherokee has in-car electronics and some transmission issues. Tesla, with four models in the survey, is unchanged at second from last. While Tesla’s Model 3 has average reliability, the Model Y still has body hardware issues with the tailgate and door alignment, paint defects, and multiple other problems. The Model X and Model S both have body hardware, climate system, and in-car electronics problems. All Lincoln models have below-average reliability, with the Corsair and Aviator being well-below average. They, along with the Nautilus, have transmission, in-car electronics and power equipment problems. Mixed Bag for European Models Porsche ranks midpack at 13, down two from last year. The Cayenne and Macan have average and above-average reliability. Audi is unchanged at 15th. The A4 and A5 remain above average, and are joined by the A6 and Q5. The Q7 is average, but the Q3 has below-average reliability. The Q8 and E-Tron, both well-below average, continue to have drive system and power equipment issues. BMW is in 17th, down four. The X5, 3 Series, 5 Series, and X3 all have average reliability, but the redesigned 4 Series has subpar reliability due to power equipment problems. Volvo is 20th overall, down one. The XC90 continues to score well-below average, mostly due to issues with brakes, climate system, and body hardware. The S60 dropped to below average this year also because of multiple issues. The XC40 is average and the XC60 is now above average. Mercedes-Benz is in 23rd, down two from last year. The only reliable model is the GLC. The E-Class fell to below average and the GLE remains well-below average, with numerous power equipment, climate system, in-car electronics, and some engine problems. Volkswagen is at 24th overall, up 1 from last year. While the Atlas and Jetta improved to average reliability, the Tiguan and the new ID.4 EV are both subpar. For more information on CR’s 2021 #CRCarReliability findings, visit CR.org/reliability or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @consumereports. About Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability Surveys The latest Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability Surveys, gathered information from the organization's members on more than 300,000 vehicles from model years 2000 to 2021. Members filled out online surveys in the spring and summer of 2021. CR’s reliability predictions are based on overall reliability for the past three model years, provided the vehicle has not been redesigned. One or two years of data will be used if the model was redesigned in 2021 or 2020. CR bases its reliability analysis on data gathered from CR members each year about problems they had with their vehicles in the past 12 months. CR’s team of statisticians and survey researchers, then analyzed trouble areas and created an overall reliability score for each model and year. Serious problem areas that can lead to expensive repairs are more heavily weighted. More information can be found at www.CR.org.

Not sure ........ but maybe hospice care is given by Community Hospitals (like for example St. Andrews ) and they do palliative care ward & also have a private room towards the final hours for family privacy For palliative care there is not much medical treatment (to the best of my knowledge) except to soothe and calm the patients geared towards liberation time for the soul with opiates .....etc Nursing Home or at own Residence ( will have medical intervention and there is a reasonable chance in life sustenance ) if I understand correctly provided I guess with the doctors "prognosis" Have been contacted by AIC people "in house" and got the approval for subsidy in the current hospital for what not.......some grants and some chairs/commode etc at a subsidized rate except the bed, yet to check again with them

He will only apologise to the Driver,once His Soul left his Body(Dead) for causing Trouble to the Driver,but only @RadXcan hear Him.

Hi, Just joined this forum, seeking help and advice. Driving a CLA180 and suspect alternator died, bad it happens on a Sat night. Car left couple of months before scrap and not looking to get a new alternator. Any recommendation for reliable workshop that can help check cause of issue, and if needed to get a recon set? I saw Lion City Electric mentioned, will give a call tomorrow. Also saw someone mentioned a reliable WS in Bukit Batok, but didnt manage to see the WS name. Really appreciate if any kind soul can help share. Thanks.

Hi, Just joined this forum, seeking help and advice. Driving a CLA180 and suspect alternator died, bad it happens on a Sat night. Car left couple of months before scrap and not looking to get a new alternator. Any recommendation for reliable workshop that can help check cause of issue, and if needed to get a recon set? I saw Lion City Electric mentioned, will give a call tomorrow. Also saw someone mentioned a reliable WS in Bukit Batok, but didnt manage to see the WS name. Really appreciate if any kind soul can help share. Thanks.

Any kind soul(s) willing to share the treatment (Oriental/Western) for such illness? I heard out from a western doctor that it can be contained but not cured. Some relatives commented that Chinese Medicine can cure this illness?

yes otherwise, just money only. Become citizen, just spend only, easy peasy. feels like Singapore getting plundered and back to colonial days altogether again selling her land, her people, her soul.

Source: https://mothership.sg/2024/02/car-overturn-accident-seletar/ A Mothership reader passed by the junction of Seletar Link and Seletar North Link in the dead of night, and was met with a worrying scene. Along the roadside barrier, a lone Honda lay ruined and flipped on its side. The time was around 3:20am, and not a soul was in sight. Found car Photos snapped by the reader showed the vehicle abandoned on the road, probably after having met with an accident. Its front bumper was badly damaged. The car's airbags were deployed and its headlights were still on. According to the reader, the engine was also left running. Missing driver The scene was devoid of any driver or passengers. Strangely, the reader also noted that the car's licence plate was missing and appeared to have been "ripped off". As the interior of the car was dark, the reader ventured closer and shone a light in. Apart from a couple of personal belongings, the car was empty. The reader called the police, who mentioned that they'd take it from there. Mothership has reached out to the Singapore Civil Defence Force and the Singapore Police Force to ask for updates.

noted with thanks, will lookout for that too👍 yep, real food definitely better, till she gets better then can anyhow eat again become bbfa😁 hahaa, she very old skool type, dun like to go for consultation until really bobian then will relent, already nagged at her to see doc but to no avail (actually me too, old soul think like pioneer... lol)

Beautiful Some might frown upon M for its "lack of substance", but no question about the "abundance of soul"! It's for people who drives what they like without the need to please others Would hope to own one one day if money (and land space) isn't an issue

That translate to old black chicken used as braised chicken soup for revival for senior folks, their tired body toiled under hot sun as replenishment for body mind and soul. Why buy Batam propertywhen one can lease is good enough, its something like JB, My friend say one. Not me😜

ME ME ME! About time I get my Marvel fix, I'm running out of movie choices on Netflix. Priced at $11.98 a month, or $119.98 a year, the Disney+ service will offer more than 500 films and 15,000 episodes of content, including Disney+ originals and exclusives such as Star Wars spin-off series The Mandalorian, now in its second season, and the upcoming Marvel series WandaVision starring Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany. When Disney+ launches, subscribers will have access to blockbusters - all 12 Star Wars films, Marvel superhero films such as Avengers: Endgame (2019), Avengers: Infinity War and Black Panther (2018), and iconic Disney original animation movies and live-action remakes such as 2020's Mulan and 2019's Frozen 2. The upcoming Pixar film Soul, as well as other Pixar favourites like Toy Story 4 (2019), will also be available, in addition to educational content from National Geographic, including The World According To Jeff Goldblum (2019 to present). https://www.preview.disneyplus.com/sg https://www.nme.com/en_asia/news/tv/disney-plus-singapore-everything-you-need-to-know-marvel-pixar-star-wars-2871149

11 am, I can try. 9am, hard but not impossible. 8am, forget it, my soul is still in Dreamland. I let all the early birds have my $3 bah. 😅

Ya la, Parking was crazy, round round merry go around. Got one tatted beemer park double lot. 😤 Atto 3 ...guitar string, weird door handle maciam the kia soul. The build ... could be better. For ev i would go for the golf hatchback types. Zippy. The seal with supercar size boot in front were popular with 40s guys. Looks like fun to drive. Yes i can fit into driver seat. The dolphin with the boot condensation...🫢 Byd like got imperfections, rather go with the Japanese cars. Had a nice chat about ev practicality. I still think until the emergency services and military use electric then i will cross over. Still immature. Major ev fire not yet...burn down the mscp...or basement carpark boom boom. Spidey sense says only selected Group targeted to operate evs. Where are the bus evs? Tech not stable. Those that buy byd, hope they know what they doing...instead of atto 3 should get the hybrid corolla altis cuv. Mata use sure bullet proof.

I tink no one is consciously abrasive about the latest episode...just being frank and trying to share how positive thought can be a powerful energy source one needs in the trying time to overcome the shock...stay strong with the mind and soul...remember...🙏

i recently stayed at a homestay in Pha Hi Village in Chiang Rai. It's an Akha village (there are Lahu as well but they are segregated in a different area, about 500m away) situated right on the Thai-Myanmar border. It's a pretty remote village thus my surprise when i saw quite a number of modern homestays/hotels built there. Then i saw a bunch of BKK plated JDM exotics parked around village - a number of immaculate RX7s and an MK4 Supra. They had travelled with a support van full of mechanics and tools/parts. https://www.thaiholidayguide.com/attractions/pha-hi-village/ the homestay accommodation included a traditional Akha meal at dinner as well as a simpler breakfast of khao tom moo (rice porridge with pork) along with their amazing coffee this was my dinner. All for me. it included some of their local black pig belly (2 o'clock), free range chicken (3 o'clock), fish (6 o'clock) and a very delicious winter melon and pork rib soup. The rice too was local. A home-cooked traditional mean that warms the body and soul as the air temperature dipped to 12degC overnight. It got even colder - approx 5degC - a week after my stay there. For reference the altitude is approx 1200m ASL.

No worries lah.. come 2 Jan 2024 all soul be back! all the mad rush will begin.. typically Singaporean lifestyle

https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Asia-Insight/Singapore-soul-searching-over-economy-as-COVID-surges?utm_campaign=GL_asia_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_source=NA_newsletter&utm_content=article_link&del_type=1&pub_date=20211005190000&seq_num=2&si=44594 Singapore hopes its vaccination rate above 80% will allow it to leave COVID-19 restrictions behind, but for now it is focused on keeping infections in check. © Nikkei montage Singapore 'soul searching' over economy as COVID surges Even if vaccines help city-state 'live with' the virus, long-term questions loom KENTARO IWAMOTO, Nikkei staff writerOctober 5, 2021 06:00 JST SINGAPORE -- As pedestrians once again dwindled in Singapore's central business district on Sept. 27, the manager of a health food restaurant let out a sigh of frustration. "No one is coming back," he said. In normal times, workers from nearby offices would be chatting over a light lunch of seafood and vegetables on rice. But renewed COVID-19 restrictions imposed that day made working from home the default, and limited dining in eateries to pairs -- less than two months after such rules were eased. The restaurant had made it through the first year and a half of the pandemic. The manager wasn't sure it would survive much longer. He said he might have to "close because we are losing money over the year." As one of the world's first countries to fully vaccinate 80% of its population against the coronavirus, clearing the threshold in late August, Singapore was set to accelerate its economic reopening. The government had devised a "living with COVID" strategy, outlined by virus task force ministers in June, under which it would treat the disease as endemic like influenza and restore a semblance of normal life. Now, the authorities are fighting an exponential rise in infections, which began after the government relaxed some rules in August. A record 2,909 new cases were reported last Friday, more than 10 times the number a month earlier and marking one of the highest per capita rates anywhere. The rapid increase is partly due to frequent testing, and since 98% of new patients are asymptomatic or have only mild symptoms, the country of 5.45 million has not abandoned its plan to coexist with the virus. But it has hit the brakes. "We had all hoped that we could put these restrictions behind us, especially with our high vaccination rates and with our plans to move forward to a COVID-resilient nation," Finance Minister Lawrence Wong, who co-chairs the task force, said when the government announced the rule-tightening on Sept. 24. "But the reality is that with the current infection trajectory, our health care system and our health care workers are facing many pressures." Even if the government shows Singapore can live with COVID-19, longer-term challenges loom. As the health crisis changes the way the world does business, can a travel and trade hub find new ways to attract people and investment? Domestically, can Singapore address its aging population and improve the lives of low-wage workers? The People's Action Party, which has led the nation since independence in 1965, is seeking answers while facing a burning question of its own: Who will succeed 69-year-old Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong? In many ways, Singapore stands at a critical juncture. "I think there is indeed soul searching at the highest levels of the government about building competitive advantages beyond some of our traditional strengths," said Walter Theseira, associate professor at Singapore University of Social Sciences. The pandemic has highlighted some of those strengths. Carefully calibrated safe distancing measures, including the use of digital technology for contact tracing, drew global attention as an example of a smart response. The city-state has limited its COVID-19 death toll to slightly over 100. And Singapore was the first major Asian economy to start vaccinations, in December, securing Pfizer-BioNTech shots initially and later adding Moderna. Yet the crisis has also exposed weak links in Singapore's advanced economy and wealthy society. Explosive infections in crowded dormitories for migrant workers last year showed how much the construction, shipyard and other industries rely on low-cost labor. Global travel restrictions, including Singapore's own tight border controls, have not only dampened tourism and related businesses but also hindered inflows of new labor, blue- and white-collar alike. Population statistics released late last month revealed that the number of foreign nationals was down 10.7% on the year, to 1.47 million, as of June. Growth was not exactly booming before COVID-19. Gross domestic product grew 1.3% in 2019, the slowest since the global financial crisis, amid disruptions in trade. Then, in 2020, Singapore suffered its steepest economic contraction on record, 5.4%. The economy has since shown signs of recovery. The government in August upgraded its 2021 GDP projection to a range of 6% to 7%, from 4% to 6%, thanks to vaccinations and improving conditions in key trade partners. But the rebound is proving bumpier than expected. A man sits among empty seats at a free movie screening in Singapore on Sept. 29, after restrictions on social gatherings were tightened. © Reuters The latest tightening of restrictions "will likely hurt some of the services segments, particularly food and beverage, retail, recreation and hospitality," Maybank Kim Eng economist Chua Hak Bin said, while noting that these sectors constitute a relatively small portion of the economy. External headwinds are gathering, too. China's economic slowdown bodes ill for countries like Singapore with strong business ties to the world's No. 2 economy. Singapore's largest bank, DBS Group Holdings, warned in a recent report that "slower China growth in [the second half of 2021] will affect export performance going forward." Already, the year-on-year growth of Singapore's manufacturing sector -- core products include electronics, machinery and pharmaceuticals -- downshifted in August for the second consecutive month, to 11.2%. The country's benchmark non-oil domestic exports also slowed for the second month in a row, growing 2.7%. "The transition from pandemic to COVID being endemic is expected to be tepid and uneven," DBS economist Irvin Seah said. More worrying for officials is persistent uncertainty over the viability of Singapore's economic model. An attempt to preserve travel, one element of the model, has not gone according to plan. In February, a facility called Connect@Changi opened near Changi Airport as an international "bubble" for business. The idea was to have visitors fly in and stay on-site, attending meetings with local partners in rooms separated by airtight glass partitions. But, for now, the complex has been converted into a care facility for COVID-19 patients without severe symptoms. This reflects both Singapore's rising cases as well as the slow rebound in travel demand. "The facility was intended for travelers, but given the tight border measures that are still in place, Connect@Changi adapted and repurposed itself," Health Minister Ong Ye Kung explained on Facebook. While COVID-19 has stopped travelers from coming, authorities worry new global tax rules could keep companies away as well. Connect@Changi, a facility meant to host safe international business meetings, is being used as a care facility for COVID-19 patients without severe symptoms for now. © Reuters In July, Finance Minister Wong was questioned in parliament about how a proposed global minimum corporate tax would affect Singapore's low-tax model. While the country's corporate tax rate of 17% is higher than the suggested minimum of 15%, many foreign companies appear to have benefited from lower effective rates. "It will make it harder for us to attract investments and we have to work harder, particularly, given our size," Wong said, conceding some other locations "offer equally, if not more, attractive and compelling attributes." The hard work, he continued, could include "upgrading of our workforce, our infrastructure, our connectivity, our overall business environment." Social trends may complicate any such efforts. Besides the sharp decline in foreign workers, the latest population statistics show a quickly graying population. Excluding foreign nationals, residents aged 65 or older accounted for 16% of the total, up from 15.2% a year earlier. Of particular concern is how to support lower-income seniors and encourage their participation in the workforce. Tan Poh Lin, assistant professor at the National University of Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, said "generation-specific solutions" are necessary due to large gaps in education and income, including technology training "to narrow the perceived disadvantages of hiring older workers with outdated skill sets and expertise." But she said in the near term, "especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic fallout, a mix of policies aimed at monetizing households' assets and government support would be more important for generating financial security for lower-income elderly. "There is also an opportunity to take advantage of the shift toward more flexible work arrangements to increase elderly labor participation." Prime Minister Lee emphasized worries over low-wage earners -- not only seniors but also informal "gig" workers like delivery drivers -- in his National Day Rally speech on Aug. 29. "Lower-wage workers are more stressed than others," Lee said. "They have less savings to tide over hard times. In the pandemic, their situation has been precarious." Whether it is reducing inequality or stopping the COVID-19 surge, Lee and his ruling PAP may be feeling the weight of citizens' expectations more than usual. For much of Singapore's history, the party could count on strong public support driven by a brisk economy, coupled with an election system that democracy advocates have long described as unfair. But in the 2020 election, the opposition won a record 10 seats, while the PAP's share of the popular vote plunged to 61.2%, close to its worst performance of 60.1% in 2011. Arguably, the party's position has only become more uncomfortable. Its succession plan was thrown into disarray when heir apparent and Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat abruptly withdrew from consideration, saying the next leader should be someone younger. That "someone" has yet to be named. After the opposition's breakthroughs last year, the PAP will be looking to confirm Lee's successor and convince the public Singapore is on the right path before the next vote, due by 2025. Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong receives a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot on Sept. 17. © Reuters Experts stress that even in a world reshaped by the coronavirus, Singapore still has plenty going for it. "Singapore's financial center continues to thrive even during the pandemic, strengthening its standing as a fund management and private banking hub," said Maybank's Chua. "Concerns over the national security law in Hong Kong are also diverting investments and funds into Singapore," he said, while the city-state is "benefiting from the reconfiguration of manufacturing supply chains toward ASEAN from China." As the pandemic pushes businesses to go digital and pursue sustainable development, Singapore is doing its best to capture these trends, creating frameworks to support fintech and leading the region in green financing. Singapore University of Social Sciences' Theseira argued the nation continues to offer a combination of safety, stability and economic vibrancy that is hard for its neighbors to match. He sees a major manufacturing opportunity as well, if Singapore can sharpen its innovation and productivity so it is not "competing just on price." Theseira cautioned that "the way ahead won't be smooth." "But I think COVID-19 has certainly thrown us opportunities as well as challenges, because it is more clear now that global business and production networks are really too concentrated and vulnerable," he said. "Singapore has a good chance of picking up momentum as it seeks to build capabilities in advanced manufacturing and digital technologies."

Wah.. so jialat and luckily never die yah.. So now considered officially as living dead ? Think u should drink more soups to nourish the body and soul ( if it’s still there).. Btw, pls let me know if u wanna sell ur LNIB VMw soon 🤭. Tske care Boss and dun anyhow think so much yah..

You should consider yourself lucky. Soul destroying': Man shows day turn to night as he spends over 9 hours crossing Tuas Second Link https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/soul-destroying-man-shows-day-turn-night-he-spends-over-9-hours-crossing-tuas-second-link

Source: https://www.motor1.com/news/693042/mazda-iconic-sp-concept-rotary/ The Mazda Iconic SP concept made its debut at the Japan Mobility Show today with a novel feature that sports car fans have been clamoring for since 2012: a rotary engine. Looking very much like the company’s Vision Study design piece from last year, the fixed-roof Iconic SP is a bit larger than the current MX-5 Miata, making it a tantalizing continuation of the RX-7’s legacy. But unlike that legendary coupe, the Iconic SP makes use of its two-rotor mill not to drive the wheels, but to charge a battery of unknown capacity, which then sends juice to an unspecified electric motor layout. While there are those burning questions about the so-called R-EV’s powertrain specifics, wherever the juice comes from, there sure is a lot of it – 365 horsepower to be precise. Mazda says the rotary can run on a variety of fuels, including hydrogen and renewable fuel, and the battery can also be plugged into a home outlet to recharge it. Coming in at 164.6 inches long by 82.8 inches wide and 45.2 inches high, the Iconic SP is 10.5 inches longer than a current MX-5 Miata and 4.1 inches shorter than a 1995 RX-7. According to the company, the Iconic SP weighs in at a slightly portly 1,450 kilograms (3,197 pounds), making it about 400 pounds heavier than the RX-7 and about 800 pounds more than the Miata. Such is the price one pays for electrons, and the Iconic SP still isn’t that heavy compared to the 3,342-pound Toyota Supra or 3,519-pound Nissan Z. It wears its size very well, too. Mazda says the compact powertrain allows a very low hood and ultra-compact dimensions, and the Iconic SP’s Coke-bottle fenders provide a modern contrast to the RX-7-style windows and rear hatch. The automaker’s modern grille shape appears on the nose, and Venn-diagram taillights recall both the NA-generation Miata and FC-generation RX-7. The doors open in a graceful, upward motion, not unlike Aston Martin's swan wing design. The Iconic SP is painted a beautiful shade called Viola Red, which is brighter than the company’s signature Soul Red Crystal – appropriate for a sports car. Inside, the Iconic SP is a triumph of minimalism, with a typewriter-key gear selector, digital instrument cluster, and small infotainment display being the only distractions from its curvaceous, flowing design. The kakenui stitching first seen on the CX-90 SUV appears on the Iconic SP concept’s dashboard and door panels, and the seats wear biofabric upholstery (a word we haven’t heard Mazda use since it developed a seat material made from renewable plastic in 2009). The combination of plug-in electric and range-extender tech isn’t new, even at Mazda – the MX-30 PHEV has a 0.8-liter single-rotor powerplant under the hood to keep the battery charged. The two-rotor engine in the Iconic SP might displace 1.6 liters, given the MX-30 uses a 0.8-liter single-rotor design. What’s more, the mill in the sports car can be used as a V2L generator, appropriate for everything from tailgate parties to backup power during severe weather. Mazda describes the engine architecture as scalable, so it’s possible the renewable-fuel rotary technology could be used for other applications. Dedicated home generators could make use of small-displacement rotaries, while larger vehicles could potentially daisy-chain rotors together to make bigger power. That said, the Iconic SP concept is a vehicle that is intended to underscore Mazda’s commitment to driving enjoyment first and foremost. “Mazda will always deliver vehicles that remind people that cars are pure joy and an indispensable part of their lives,” said company Representative Director, President, and CEO Masahiro Moro. “As a car-loving company that mass produces the inspiring mobility experience, we are committed to shaping the future … where everyone can proudly say, ‘We love cars.’”

I haven't got around to reading up and understanding how to use this car cam. So far managed to use voice command to turn it left and right (Shoot left! Shoot right!) Can some kind soul help? What are the other voice commands and what else it can do?