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Source: https://mustsharenews.com/singapore-nuclear-energy-2050/ Singapore Could Potentially Use Nuclear Energy By 2050 When the topic of nuclear energy gets brought up, some might instinctively think of the dangers associated with the alternate energy source. However, nuclear energy can also be an efficient power source. On Tuesday (22 Mar), the Energy 2050 Committee published a report showing that Singapore could tap into nuclear energy in the coming decades. With recent advancements, nuclear technology has apparently become safer and more reliable. However, more research and development are needed to determine if it’s indeed viable for Singapore. Nuclear energy could supply 10% of Singapore’s needs by 2050 According to The Straits Times (ST), a report commissioned by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) concluded that about 10% of Singapore’s energy demand could be supplied by nuclear energy by 2050. While Singaporeans might understandably be worried about nuclear energy, the Energy 2050 Committee said advancements in the field have made the alternative power source safer than before. The report projected 3 uncertain geopolitical scenarios in 2050: Clean Energy Renaissance Climate Action Bloc Emergent Technology Trailblazer S’pore can determine if nuclear energy is viable by 2040s In the 3rd scenario, the world is fragmented and technology advancements will delay but eventually arrive. Singapore will be able to deploy low-carbon alternatives, such as nuclear energy, into its energy mix. The report stated that a fragmented geopolitical situation means that countries would find it harder to collaborate and achieve their climate targets. This would limit electricity imports in Singapore’s energy mix. This is as opposed to the other 2 scenarios, where electricity imports would contribute a significant portion of Singapore’s energy needs. Scenario 1: Clean Energy Renaissance Scenario 2: Climate Action Bloc Nevertheless, in all 3 scenarios, electricity imports, hydrogen, solar, and energy storage systems will be important. The Straits Times (ST) reported that in 2014, Singapore allocated $63 million to fund research and education in nuclear safety, engineering, and science. By the 2040s, Singapore would likely be able to determine if nuclear energy is viable. If so, we can start developing domestic generation capacities. Could contribute greatly to our climate efforts Once associated with danger and volatility, we are glad that modern developments have made nuclear energy much safer and hopefully more viable. While it might sound ambitious for Singapore to incorporate nuclear energy, it could contribute greatly to our nation’s climate efforts.

Has anybody feel that yesterday(Mon 8-Dec-2008) was indeed very cold? From my flat i have to wear sweater in the morning, i am jsut wondering whether it was below the official announced 24 deg C, anyone felt the same?

I'm beginning this thread so I can continue to discuss matters on a topic that interests me. I know there is a thread with similar content, but it's become a bit toxic, so if the mods don't mind, I'll start one here? Otherwise go ahead and merge. Basically we have an economic crisis on us, and internationally things are not doing well either. But in spite of this, property prices seem to be headed northwards and the agents will want to tell you, they won't drop. But job losses are on the way, and the capital appreciation on property isn't what it used to be and despite what agents try to tout, one must consider all factors rationally, and see if your money is better served elsewhere. Eg a good benchmark will be the 2.5% that CPF offers. But property remains enticing because it takes a lot more effort and investigation to find alternatives and not all Singaporeans are that hardworking or familiar with the investment instruments available. I wonder what the rest think? Cheers

Starting a thread to consolidate the sharing of SIM-only plan experiences and lobangs. Still 1 month+ left on my current M1 SIM-only contract and looking at what other players (telco and MVNO) are offering. Came across Zero1's 6u plan which seems pretty competitive, so putting this plan on my radar screen.

lai liao 😁 @ https://www.techinasia.com/source-tesla-nears-final-approval-sell-cars-singapore

I decided to create a separate thread for AI. Things are really rapidly changing. AI to replace sales staff that are in a revolving door situation. Seems like this company has hit upon a niche that larger companies are very interested in. Not all of these ideas will work out. But you can bet a significant portion of desk/admin jobs will slowly be redundant over the next 10-15 years. Maybe by then, some of us would be working alongside AIs to do some of the routine tasks. https://techcrunch.com/2017/04/09/saleswhale-seed-funding/

YES! The world will get a chance to know more about our little red dot. BMW i7 Singapore Icons Is a Bespoke Electric Luxury Sedan With Rolls-Royce Paint (https://www.autoevolution.com/news/bmw-i7-singapore-icons-is-a-bespoke-electric-luxury-sedan-with-rolls-royce-finish-254367.html) BMW is strengthening its presence in Asia by unveiling a one-of-a-kind i7. Designed to commemorate Singapore's 60th anniversary, as well as the company's local 40th birthday, the model is aptly called the BMW i7 Singapore Icons and has just celebrated its premiere. According to BMW Group Asia's Managing Director, Lars Nielsen, "planning for this masterpiece began 18 months ago and was a labor of love." The car in question "exhibits the best BMW has to offer, including refined materials, supreme craftsmanship, and individualization, all to honor the Lion City." The all-quiet luxury sedan is presented in Madeira Red, a dark red metallic paint finish sourced from Rolls-Royce's portfolio. The hue is available through BMW Individual, the company's personalization division, and sports "opulent tones of rich madeira wine and dark cherry-black hues." The company says that it chosen this color due to its multi-layered pearlescent effect, adding that the i7 Singapore Icons is the first car in Singapore to be presented in it and it will remain that way. Besides the special color, the all-new and unique BMW i7 Singapore Icons sports a 'Singapore Icons' logo on the Hofmeister kink, and that is another way to tell it apart from the rest of the lineup. The automaker says that this position was specially chosen to honor the Hofmeister kink's roots, as it first appeared on a Bimmer back in the 1960s, and it was the 1500. The 20-inch wheels were crafted by BMW Individual and feature a two-tone look and a diamond-cut finish, further highlighting the model's special nature. Opening the door of the BMW i7 Singapore Icons will reveal the Smoke White Merino leather upholstery, said to echo the colors of the Singapore flag (red and white). The high-end upholstery also came from BMW Individual's portfolio and is said to be robust, breathable, and soft. The car manufacturer states that "each hide is carefully selected for its immaculate, unblemished quality," so the attention to detail is certainly on deck. The 'Singapore Icons' design bedecks all four headrests in Alaska Gray, another special touch from the company's personalization division. A dashboard inlay pretty much rounds off the special design of the car, featuring seven of the country's icons. Some of the landmarks on deck include the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay Supertree Grove, Singapore Changi Control Tower, Anderson Bridge, Merlion Statue, and ArtScience Museum. Crafted from a 25.7-cm (10.1 in) wide single-piece metal thinner than 1 mm, it is integrated into the fine wood in oak gray metallic and sports a mirror-like finish. The most affordable BMW i7 in Singapore is the eDrive50 Pinnacle, which starts at S$625,888 (equal to US$488,355), and in the United States, the model carries an MSRP of US$105,700 (S$135,440).

Singapore is known to be a melting pot of different cultures, races, people and of course, cuisines from all over the world. You can probably find food from most places here in Singapore, but we also have some dishes that we like to think of as our national dish - okay, google says there isn't an officially declared national dish, but Chicken Rice is one of those that's often mentioned. Yes, we all love Chicken Rice, but it isn't really unique to Singapore.... Nasi Lemak is another hot favourite that you can find around Southeast Asia... Yes, Chicken Rice is one of the most popular dish for most Singaporeans, but it really isn't that unique to us. I mean, you can head to Malaysia and still find Chicken Rice everywhere. You can really find all sorts of food in Singapore, but is there really no dish that's unique to us? And then there are the other popular choices that tend to start an online argument every single time someone tries to recommend it as a Singaporean dish: Nasi Lemak, Wanton Mee, Laksa... you know the drill... Those that challenge it aren't wrong either - not only can these dishes be found in our neighbouring countries, many of them are even nicer there as well! So, one day I was eating one of my favourite foods - Bak Chor Mee. And that was when I realised that this is a dish that's truly unique to Singapore. I'm not just talking about minced meat noodles, too; many countries have their own variation of it. YES, there is! Bak Chor Mee (Minced Meat Noodle) is something that you can only find in Singapore! I've made the effort to Google and check with my Malaysian friends! But the Singapore style Bak Chor Mee with vinegar, chilli, and mushrooms - that unique burst of savoury, spicy, sour, (and tinge of sweetness if you add some ketchup to the mix) - is something that's only found here! I mean, it's no hard confirmation, but I've asked around and checked with friends from Malaysia, and I don't think they have the same thing there. So you know, instead of fighting till your face turns blue about where Nasi Lemak, Laksa, Wanton Mee or Chicken Rice originated, we should totally embrace and introduce more people to Bak Chor Mee! If your foreign friends visit Singapore, I would say, Bak Chor Mee is what you should introduce them to try! Okay, there is one slight problem though: Bak Chor Mee is traditionally made with pork, so it isn't halal, and our Muslim friends would not be able to eat it. BUT, I'm pretty certain that someone could make a halal version with chicken or another meat and get it close to the original taste (I know it won't be the same), but hey, I would really love it for more people to enjoy this truly Singapore dish. Do you agree with me? Or do you have another dish that you think is more uniquely Singaporean than the humble Bak Chor Mee? - Zhi Xuan

As my JC classmates suddenly made plans this year to have an NDP watch-party (this is likely our first in the 12 years we’ve known each other), I found myself falling into a state of nostalgia again: This time, thinking about how NDP songs have evolved over the years. It’s not a stretch to say that each NDP song - from the inception of the idea of an NDP song back in 1984 - has woven itself somewhat into the fabric of our collective memories. Whether you were singing along loudly in primary school or covering your ears in desperation, they helped us not just in marking out the milestones in our lives, but in celebrating the spirit of Singapore itself. The big question, however? Which is the ultimate NDP song of all time? (Actually, the answer should already be clear.) Behind the Theme of NDP 2025: Unveiling the Anthem Celebrating the Spirit of "Majulah Singapura" I decided to turn to AI for some help with that question, but before digging back into the annals of history and jumping into the grand reveal, I was first reminded: Focus on the present. And thus ensued an enquiry of SG60. For NDP 2025, the theme "Majulah Singapura" (Onward Singapore) draws direct inspiration from the Singapore national anthem, and resonates with the nation's aspirations to move forward with unity and resilience. It's meant to reflect the nation's enduring aspirations through elements of trust, inclusivity, and mutual support - crucial pillars of the national psyche that are arguably more relevant than ever this year, as Singapore celebrates its 60th year of independence. Aspirations and Core Values At its heart, the NDP 2025 theme also celebrates the core values that bind Singaporeans, such as resilience, harmony, and perseverance. These values have apparently been woven into the performances and displays at the Parade that aim to resonate deeply with audiences, offering reflections on Singapore's growth and the collective aspirations for the future. Furthermore, this year's parade apparently articulates a narrative of progress, urging citizens to envision a brighter future. In tandem, the upcoming and ongoing festivities promise an immersive experience, engaging participants through interactive exhibits and installations that vividly narrate Singapore's evolving identity. Here We Are: The NDP 2025 Theme Song That brings us to this year’s NDP Theme Song. Titled "Here We Are," the song is said to mark a pivotal moment for Singapore: A celebration of its 60th year of independence. Its melodic journey, infused with the soulful voices of home-grown artists Charlie Lim and Kit Chan, begins with a slow, thoughtful pace. This deliberate start apparently mirrors Singapore’s own journey from a fledgling nation to a thriving metropolis – before the tempo builds mid-way, and the atmosphere is made more soaring. Additionally, the lyrics are said to articulate what home means to Singaporeans, painting vivid images of Singapore’s landscape and spirit. This song not only honours Singapore's progress, but also continues to reinforce the significance of the National Day Parade as a symbol of unity and resilience. Here's the music video in Roblox for good measure Furthermore, its emotive power seeks to underscore national pride, urging every Singaporean to embrace their identity and celebrate the ongoing journey of this vibrant city-state Arguably, the choice of any anthem is not merely about melody; it’s about encapsulating a shared vision. "Here We Are" reflects the shared journey of Singaporeans, resonating with themes of hope, courage, and a united vision for the future. The music video, directed by He Shuming, enhances this message with scenes of a 60-member community choir and snapshots of everyday acts of care and determination. This poignant homage invites us to consider how we might advance collectively while acknowledging past challenges and triumphs. But back to the big question: What is considered to be the best NDP song so far? When discussing the National Day Parade (NDP) songs, one song was identified to resonate louder than all others (and I am wont to agree myself) - Home by Dick Lee, released in 1998. A Cultural Melody of Unity: "Home" by Kit Chan Described as an anthem that encapsulates the heart of Singapore, Home isn’t just a song; it’s an emotional journey. Kit Chan’s inimitable vocals, combined with Lee’s evocative lyrics, struck a chord during times of uncertainty, namely the Asian financial crisis, embedding the song into Singapore's cultural fabric. A testament to its impact, Home consistently tops polls and is a permanent feature in celebrations due to its universal themes of belonging and resilience, marking it as a cornerstone of Singapore's national identity. The ballad has been hailed for its touching lyrics and poignant melody, and it’s no exaggeration to say that its appeal transcends generations. This anthem's ability to unite Singaporeans is evidenced by its frequent replay at National Day Singapore celebrations. The Timeless Appeal of "We Will Get There" Another anthem that stands out, however, is "We Will Get There" by Stefanie Sun, released in 2002. Exuding optimism instead, the song has become a staple in Sun’s discography. (Fun fact: The song was deemed to have such high radio-appeal that it was included in her own album, 2002’s Leave, in both English and Mandarin《一起走到》as bonus tracks). Leave had no ostensible nation-building agenda in mind). Urging Singaporeans to remain resilient in the face of challenges, the song serves as a symbol of hope and, well, likely has had such incredible staying power in the nation’s consciousness because of its universal themes of unity and perseverance. Either way, both songs, celebrated over decades, arguably underscore the essence of the Singapore National Day Parade and affirm their place in the hearts of many. Anthemic Evolution through the Decades Other notable songs have also claimed their place in Singapore’s musical journey. With their brainwashing infectious rhythms and messages of hope, songs like Stand Up for Singapore and We are Singapore have rallied the nation since the 1980s, shaping national pride and unity. Interestingly, though, the transformation of NDP songs from straightforward patriotic tunes into diverse musical expressions sort of mirrors the evolving landscape of Singapore. (Just play those songs back to back with this year’s.) But it’s ultimately down to whatever resonates with the individual Upon reflecting on Singapore's vibrant musical landscape, however, it's become clear that selecting the best NDP song is a deeply personal journey. Each anthem captures a unique moment in our nation's history, resonating with different facets of our shared identity. While opinions may vary, what remains undeniable is the unifying power of these melodies – at least among the younger and older folks (I suspect most adults my age are likely to roll their eyes at the propagandic nature of NDP songs). As we look toward and beyond NDP 2025, it’ll be interesting to see how future compositions aim to reflect and capture of the nation’s evolving narrative. Images from Unsplash (Daniel Wong), ndp.gov.sg

Personally, the mindset of the national is if it is FREE we will keep it hence, i dont envisage a possible reduction in our NS duration what i am very worried about is the world is moving so very fast we already had been disadvantaged by NS, resulting in being 2 or 2 1/2 years behind our girls and our foreign classmates in the future it will be worse for our children even 6 months can mean a break or score the economic cycle also is shorter hence, i am just worried about our children am i worrying too much for our kids or should i just relax TAIPEI

VW Singapore plots Skoda comeback Volkswagen-owned Czech brand Skoda is making a comeback, yet again. But this time, it is parent group Volkswagen which will do its own importing and retailing here. Volkswagen Group Singapore - the manufacturer-owned importer and retailer of Volkswagen vehicles here - has registered a new company for this purpose. According to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, Skoda Centre Singapore was registered last month and will be operating out of 247 Alexandra Road, which is the same address as the VW showroom. The Straits Times understands renovations are being carried out at the facility and that Skoda Centre Singapore will start operations in the first quarter of next year. Volkswagen Group Singapore was not available for comment, but it is understood that a meaningful price differential will be in place to re-launch the Czech brand here. Previously, Skoda cars - which are based on Volkswagens - were the same price or even costlier than equivalent VW models. In other markets, Skodas are cheaper. The brand was last represented by Harvest Automobiles, part of businessman Peter Kwee's now dormant motor group of companies. Harvest Automobiles went bust in 2013 - the third Skoda agency to have failed in Singapore. The Straits Times understands Vertex Automobiles, the dealer for Chinese automobile brand Chery that is owned by egg trader Lian Fong, had made a pitch for the Skoda franchise. But it has since landed Seat, a Spanish brand also owned by Volkswagen Group. Skoda had also been courting Trans Eurokars, a multi-franchise group owned by businessman Karsono Kwee. Among its brands are Rolls-Royce, Porsche, Mini and Mazda. The best year for the Skoda brand here was 2010, when it sold 105 cars. That is less than 4 per cent of Volkswagen sales last year. Will the brand have better success under Volkswagen? Nanyang Business School's Adjunct Associate Professor Zafar Momin, previously an automotive expert with the Boston Consulting Group, said: "Skoda may be able to make a comeback in Singapore if priced and promoted properly. It needs to be very competitive with its Korean competitors in terms of pricing, as it could provide solid, competitive products targeted at value segments of the markets. "With VW Singapore now doing it themselves, it has a better chance than before. Having said that, I wonder what "comeback" really means in a small crowded Singapore car market which has small volumes for many non-mainstream brands. Would it really be worth the effort and to what extent would it cannibalise VW products?" When contacted back in 2014 - when Harvest Automobiles relinquished the business - Volkswagen Group Singapore said it had no plans to take over the Skoda retail business here. It has, however, taken over the maintenance and warranty of Skodas here. There are about 400 Skoda cars in Singapore today. As a onwer of both Skoda and VW model, I can attest that Skoda is indeed better, in almost every aspect, than VW. I can wait to welcome it back to Singapore!! Here are some interesting models in current Skoda lineup, that I hope can be made available to local motorist when sales start next year. Superb Superb Combi Kodiaq

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/gen-z-young-workers-job-hop-career-switch-5217766 A CNA survey finds that on average, Singapore’s Gen Z workers prefer to stay in a job for 2.9 years – the shortest duration among their peers in Asia. SINGAPORE: When Ms Kumar, 27, told her parents she planned to leave her first job, her mother was taken aback and questioned her lack of “loyalty" to the company. Ms Kumar, who preferred to be known by her surname only, found this sentiment “quite ridiculous”. She left her job as a university administrative executive early last year. “You have to be loyal to yourself ... what you deserve and how you want to improve. If the company’s not serving you, it’s okay to leave,” she told CNA. Her point of view appears to be shared by working-age peers in Gen Z – loosely defined as the generation born from 1997 to 2012, and aged 13 to 28 this year. In a survey by CNA's Money Mind programme, Gen Z workers in Singapore aged 21 to 28 reported the shortest mean optimum period – 2.9 years – for staying in a job, compared to their counterparts in Asian countries. It was 3.5 years for workers in Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines; 3.7 in Malaysia; and the longest of 4.6 in China. Staying for three to four years was the most popular option for Gen Z workers in most countries, including Singapore. China and the Philippines bucked the trend, with most choosing to stay for five years or more. In Singapore, 37 per cent of Gen Z workers would choose to stay for a shorter period of one to two years. This was higher than all other countries, particularly China, where just 5 per cent chose this option. Out of the 508 respondents in Singapore, only 14 per cent chose five years or more as the optimum duration in a job. This was by far the lowest proportion among countries surveyed. Gen Z workers have a strong desire for higher salaries and career growth, and changing jobs every two to three years is seen as an effective way to develop their careers, said Mr David Blasco, country director at recruiter Randstad Singapore. But individual motivations aside, structural reasons may also be a factor. “The pandemic and economic instability, marked by a surge in ‘revenge hiring’ quickly followed by global restructuring and a slowing economy, have made traditional job security feel less attainable,” said Mr Blasco. “As a result, Gen Z’s tendency to job-hop is better understood as a rational response to a more volatile market, not simply a lack of commitment.” NOT RESTING ON LAURELS Ms Kumar, now a programme executive in a non-profit, cited job satisfaction and personal and career development as her main reasons for switching both job and industry. The Money Mind survey found that in Singapore, work-life balance (65 per cent), high wages (62 per cent) and flexible work arrangements (53 per cent) were Gen Z workers’ top reasons for staying in a job. On the flip side, work-related stress (48 per cent), lack of career advancement (44 per cent) and unhappiness with a superior or colleague (44 per cent) were their top reasons for quitting in Singapore. Other Gen Z workers interviewed by CNA cited similar motivations as Ms Kumar. Mr Heng T J, 28, a public servant in healthcare who asked to be identified by his initials, has changed jobs three times in five years. Since he started working in 2020, his longest role has been for about two years in a university, while his shortest stint has been around half a year in a bank. Mr Heng said he did not intentionally set out to change jobs so frequently. But in the early stages of his career, learning is a priority. “(After) two, two-and-a-half years, if I’m not learning in my role, I guess the hesitation to leave will not be that high,” he said. “I don’t think I should be resting on my laurels.” His reasons for switching jobs include being a poor fit with the job and workplace culture; lack of growth potential; and dissatisfaction at his scope of work changing after a company reorganisation. Another Gen Z worker, a 29-year-old advertising and public relations account manager who did not want to be named for this story, has worked in four agencies since 2020. She stayed for about a year in each position. “At each step, I already know what exactly I want to do, and what I want to achieve out of this agency,” she said. For example, her goal could be to manage a marketing campaign budget of a certain size, or to run an offline campaign. “If I’ve already achieved it, whether it’s one year or less than a year, I’ve done what I came here to do. I’ll just move on.” Human capital experts said Gen Z workers’ priorities differ from those of older workers. Flexible work arrangements, learning opportunities and quality of management matter more to Gen Z workers, while older workers focus on pay and benefits, job security and job location, according to Aon’s head of talent solutions for Asia-Pacific Puneet Swani. Mr Blasco said professional and career progression are especially important to Gen Z. “They expect clear growth and development opportunities, seeing each job as a stepping stone rather than a long-term destination.” Job-hopping also presents an opportunity to negotiate for a higher salary, which was a consistent outcome for the Gen Z workers CNA spoke with. The account manager said the salary hikes from each job switch outpaced what she would have got from yearly increments if she had stayed put. Mr Heng, who also got a salary increment each time, recalled a senior’s advice that "the hiring budget at most companies is always higher than the retaining budget”, which he said shaped his thinking. Mr Swani stressed however that workers should consider job changes for the sake of learning and exposure rather than a salary boost to perform the same role. “Is it merely a 5 to 10 per cent salary increase, or is it the pursuit of new skills and competencies by transitioning to a different organisation? “Research indicates that employees who remain with one company tend to perform well, prompting the organisation to invest in their development, fast-track their career progression, and enhance their skills,” he argued. But organisations must in turn invest in their employees and support skills acquisition, or workers are likely to look elsewhere, he said. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR WORK Job-hopping is naturally a challenge for employers because of the substantial costs associated with training and acclimatising new workers, said Mr Swani. Employers can also see job-hopping as a sign of instability and lack of experience on the part of the potential employee, said Mr Blasco. “Rather than focusing solely on individual tenures, employers should focus on the clear upsides that Gen Z workers bring,” he said. “Gen Z’s creativity, comfort with technology and openness to new ideas can accelerate digital transformation, reinvent and strengthen existing processes, and introduce more collaborative, inclusive ways of working.” Employers should also think about retaining younger workers by aligning with their expectations for competitive salary increases, work flexibility, clear opportunities for career advancement and a “people-centric” workplace culture, added Mr Blasco. As for workers, “what matters more is being able to show that each job move was made thoughtfully and that you brought commitment and credibility to every role”, he advised. The Gen Z workers told CNA that although their peers have fears and worries over job-hopping, they themselves have not felt disadvantaged in their job searches so far. The account manager said that in her industry of advertising and public relations, employers collectively consider the amount of work, clientele and experience she has, rather than looking into how long she was in one company. This only changed when she was being considered for in-house marketing roles rather than agency ones, with companies in the former category questioning her short stints. “It says a lot about them as well,” she said. “It’s a two-way street – I am reviewing them as they are reviewing me.” Mr Heng felt the same. “If the hiring manager is of a very traditional and rigid kind of mindset, would you really want to join such a company?” Both however expect their attitude and approach towards job-hopping to evolve, with more time spent in the workforce. Mr Heng said his priorities will change as he goes through different life and career milestones, such as starting a family or becoming a manager. The account manager said changing jobs every year would not be sustainable in the long run, and believes this is probably “the last year” she can do this. “Moving forward, I would also like to find an environment that I will be happy with for two years,” she said. “It’s not that I want to leave every one year to earn more money or something. If I can do that in a comfortable place, why would I want to leave?”

Performance Automobiles Pte Ltd (the Audi dealer in Singapore) has branched out to include a few electric brands. One of the brands In it's stable is the exclusive Authorized Dealership (AD) in Singapore for Xpeng via it's subsidiary XPremium BEV Pte Ltd. There are two Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) (currently) from Xpeng available in Singapore. One is in the shape of an SUV and referred to as the G6. The other one and detailed in this thread is the luxury 7 seat people mover - called the X9. Styled unlike other MPVs on the road, the X9 is inspired from starships with the windshield being highly sloped at a 21-degree angled to the A-pillar. The X9's height is low enough to comfortably into all MSC in Singapore - without the worry of scratching the roof. Length : 5,293mm Width : 1,988mm Height: 1,785mm Wheelbase: 3,160mm The X9 is only available in Front Wheel Drive (FWD) in Singapore with a 235kW motor producing 450Nm of torque. Can do the century sprint in 7.7 seconds and has a top speed of 200 km/hr. AC charging is capped at 11kW and time to re-charge will depend on the battery capacity of the two trims available. Uses a 800V architecture for rapid DC charging. Standard range. Battery: 84.5kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) from Eve Energy. Range (WLTP): 500 km WLTP energy consumption: 16.9 kWhr/100km AC charging: 5% to 100% in 9.5 hours DC charging: 283 kW; 10-80% in 20 minutes Curb weight: 2,640 kg Gross vehicle mass: 3,220 kg Net carrying weight: 580 kg Long range. Battery: 101.5kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) from CALB Range (WLTP): 590 km WLTP energy consumption: 17.2 kWhr/100km AC charging: 5% to 100% in 11 hours DC charging: 317 kW; 10-80% in 20 minute Curb weight: 2,590 kg Gross vehicle mass: 3,170 kg Net carrying weight: 580 kg The exterior design has a low coefficient of drag number of 0.236. This is reflected in class leading WLTP energy consumption number of around 17.2kWhr / 100km. The best there is now. The back is sloped 23-degree at the rear window. This is to reduce drag/wind turbulence and has the side benefit of less space required behind the vehicle to open the boot. With all seven seats up, the boot is a large 755 L of space. Enough to fit a few luggage's to the airport. When the 3rd row seats are folded down (can go completely into the floor) the available volume increases to 2,554L. Large enough to fit a road bike in the back. It's a very practical vehicle for the family. Underneath the skin, Xpeng has implemented front and rear mega (die) casting - similar to what Tesla uses to improve rigidity, stiffness and integrating with the structural battery pack makes the X9 a very strong and stable vehicle. Should get five star safety rating in Euro NCAP once tests are done. The side benefit of die-casts are reduced complexity in the manufacturing process, improving quality and cost savings in eliminating welds/stamping of multiple parts. The X9 also has a double wishbone front suspension and multilink independent rear suspension, both using dual-chamber air springs capable of 90 mm (3.5") of ride height adjustment as standard, allowing for a 37 mm (1.5") floor entry height. The air suspension can be adjusted up 40 mm and down 50 mm. Great for an aging population with easy ingress and egress inside. Xpeng claims that the suspension automatically adjusts the height based on speed, reducing wind resistance at higher speeds (higher efficiency) and thus improving range. Competition in the MPV space are: Zeekr 009 : 5,207 (L) x 2,024 (W) x 1,856 (H) mm. Wheelbase 3,205 mm. The 009 is also sold by Performance Automobiles under its AD relationship with Zeekr. BYD DENZA D9 : 5,250 (L) x 1,960 (W) x 1,920 (H) mm. Wheelbase 3,110 mm. MG Maxus 9 : 5,270 (L) x 2,000 (W) x 1,840 (H) mm. Wheelbase 3,200 mm. Toyota Alphard : 5,100 (L) x 1,850 (W) x 1,950 (H) mm. Wheelbase 3,000 mm. Hyundai Staria : 5,253 (L) x 1,997 (W) x 1,990 (H) mm. Wheelbase 3,273 mm. KIA Carnival : 5,155 (L) x 1,995 (W) x 1,740 (H) mm. Wheelbase 3,090 mm. Will do a follow up post on interior design as well as a cost breakdown for the X9.

@AriesGoat hey bro. Any latest news for the VRS estate launch? Saw the 2 mk4 red sedan and estate on a trailer last week.

Hey guys, any1 knows which marathon is in Feb - April 2011 which has the 10km distance? Cos i planning to train for marathon but i dun wan to go straight for the 42km, i prefer to gradually increase the distance..so im hoping to run 10km beginning of next yr..den 21km at adidas sundown in May..den eventually the StanChart 42km in Dec next yr. Any advice? Thanx in advance.

Hot on the heels of the rather erm, provocative XM, BMW Asia has now brought along its smaller, though no less anticipate stablemate, the M2 to our local shores and we were lucky enough to be privy to an early media preview. While the new car is slightly larger all around (except for height where 7mm is shaved off) from its predecessor, an almost 50hp bump in power (from the M2 Competition) means the new car is even quicker than the car it replaces, though only by .1 of a second for both gearbox options. Yes, gearbox options, because thanks to the heros of homologation at BMW Asia, you can spec your brand new M2 with a third pedal and 6 do-it-yourself forward gears should you feel the 8-speed automatic isn't quite "macho" enough. And macho might be the words that come to mind when chancing upon the M2. While it might not be as pretty as the previous M2, which let's face it, is one of the best looking BMWs out there even today, the new car does have its own distinct visual flavour. Personally, I think the front end is too fussy and overdesigned. Where aesthetics are concerned for this generation, the less well-endowed M240i in Thundernight Metallic takes the cake. You know the drill. BMW's S58B30. 3-litres, Twin Turbos, 6-cylinders all lined up to punch out a heady 460 horses and 500Nm of torques. A healthy dollop more punch than the considerably more expensive Porsche 718 Cayman GTS. Which then brings us to the price. Whilst never intended to be anywhere near "cheap", the new car represents a considerable increase from its M2 Competition predecessor and an even bigger leap from the original M2 launched back in 2016. At S$380,000 (without COE), the new M2 is a rather expensive proposition, but nowadays, what isn't?

Boom and doom? Singapore to launch vaccinated travel lanes with India, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia SINGAPORE: Singapore will extend its vaccinated travel lane (VTL) scheme to more countries starting from Nov 29, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Monday (Nov 15). The country intends to launch VTLs with India and Indonesia from Nov 29, and with Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from Dec 6.

OK, let pause for a while first. What do you think the thread is all about when you see the title? Mouth watering food / makan, a new drama from Suria, or eye candy for lao uncle? What about SEDAP! A Culinary Adventure? I bet most will link it with a documentary, probably about hunting for great food in different part of the world. But, it is something else, and quite unexpected, at least for me. It is a video game, developed by a Singapore firm. Sedap! They ate cai fan for a year to make this cooking video game Source: https://www.straitstimes.com/life/sedap-they-ate-cai-fan-for-a-year-to-make-this-cooking-video-game SINGAPORE – In soon-to-be-released video game Sedap!, players can serve up a feast of regional dishes like nasi lemak and mango sticky rice while battling mythical South-east Asian beasts. This two-player cooperative cooking action game marks the studio debut of home-grown game developer Kopiforge. It is set to be released on digital marketplace Steam on May 22, retailing at $14.50. Despite the virtual feast on offer, the game’s rocky development meant the studio’s three co-founders had to survive on a humbler menu of budget meals as they took home an average salary of $700 each. Co-founder Jay Wong says that “only eating cai fan for a year” has become an inside joke at the studio to describe their meagre budget. The 26-year-old graduated from Nanyang Technological University with a degree in media art (with a specialisation in games). The team also relied on other cheap hawker fare and cost-of-living hacks to finish their labour of love. “Sedap! is our love letter to South-east Asia,” says Mr Wong, who adds that the game’s concept began from a starting point of noticing how under-represented the region’s culture was in video games. This got him wondering. “What if we made a fantasy game, but instead of dragons and goblins, we featured creatures from our own myths? What if the food you cooked wasn’t generic soup or steak, but nasi lemak or mango sticky rice?” The result blends the chaotic action of popular cooking simulator game Overcooked (2016) with distinctly regional influences. Players can prepare more than 50 dishes from across the region, from globally known fare such as bubble tea and chicken rice, to regional staples like Cambodia’s fish amok, Myanmar’s mohinga and the humble teh tarik. The game’s regional influences also mean that players take on creatures from South-east Asian myths, while playing to a soundtrack composed using traditional instruments. Bringing this game to life meant dealing with quarter-life crisis. The game initially began in 2021 as a graduation project by Mr Wong and Ms Nadiyah Toi, 25. The two later co-founded Kopiforge in 2023 with Ms Foo Jing Ting, 27, to start developing the game full-time. Ms Foo was a senior of Mr Wong in Nanyang Polytechnic. Despite picking up accolades – including Best New Game at the BIG Festival @ gamescom latam 2025 and Best Student Game at the Level Up KL Sea Game Awards 2023 – securing funding was a challenge. Failing to secure a grant from the Infocomm Media Development Authority, the team relied on small grants and a single private investor. They also pitched the game to over 100 publishers before clinching a publishing deal at the end of 2024. “The year 2024 had a lot of layoffs in the video game industry, and I heard that funding in general was cut by a lot,” says Mr Wong. “We were a first-time studio with no prior game development experience, so I could guess why we didn’t attain funding.” These funding struggles meant that the bulk of their finances were dedicated to paying their freelance collaborators – who were brought in after the studio’s founding – fair rates, leaving the three co-founders with an average monthly income of $700 each. This took a personal toll. “Singapore’s culture puts a premium on productivity and high income,” says Mr Wong. “Most of my peers, especially those in tech, were already earning so much more than me, and I struggled with feeling left behind.” To join Kopiforge, Ms Foo left a better-paying gig as a system engineer at HP, but it is something she does not regret. She says: “Since university, I’ve felt like I was part of a different rat race from my peers because I always wanted to be in a role where I could create things, despite being trained in a technical field.” She had graduated from NTU with a degree in computer science in 2022. For Ms Toi, the sacrifices began even earlier, when she faced backlash from both family and school teachers over her decision to pursue a degree in game art at NTU. “I figured I would probably hate myself if I went for something practical and spent my life wondering what things could’ve been like if I’d committed to art instead,” she says. Their bet is about to be tested. What happens next hinges on the game’s sales, which will show whether their gamble – and all those cai fan meals – were worth it.

hi all started this new thread for perodua owners in s'pore. can share tips on modi, spare parts n accessories, etc.

https://g.co/kgs/8QCLRys https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/aloysius-yapp-thanks-mum-after-winning-uk-open-on-mothers-day Congrats to Aloysius Yapp.. Angmo tio Chiat 🤭 Great week for Sg sports😅

I know we have a separate property thread, but IMO, this deserves a separate discussion. This area will be big, in size and impact.. https://www.tnp.sg/news/singapore/9000-housing-units-including-hdb-be-built-keppel-club-site https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/ndr-2019-greater-southern-waterfront-pulau-brani-sentosa-keppel-11819376?cid=h3_referral_inarticlelinks_24082018_cna https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/specific-measures-could-dampen-lottery-effect-of-public-housing-11825766 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6xz58yCqGk

SINGAPORE – High certificate of entitlement prices are not quelling motor dealers’ appetite to grow their portfolios. Premium Automobiles, the retail dealer for Audi, has just been appointed the distributor for Zeekr, a luxury electric vehicle (EV) brand from Chinese automotive giant Geely. The agreement was signed in late December. The showroom for the brand will be built in the Leng Kee Road area in the first half of the year, Premium Automobiles said in a statement sent to The Straits Times late on Dec 28. The service facility will be in the Ubi industrial area. When asked, Premium Automobiles said the details are still being finalised for their exact locations, but added that these will be dedicated facilities that will not be shared with Audi cars, which the company will continue to sell. Zeekr will be launched here with two models – 009, which is a multipurpose vehicle (MPV), and X, a sports utility vehicle (SUV). Deliveries will begin in the third quarter of 2024. The 009 MPV is over 5.2m long, which makes the six-seater bigger than the latest generation Toyota Alphard, which measures just under 5m. Premium Automobiles did not confirm the exact specifications of the models, but the 009 MPV has a promised range of 800km on a full charge. Its dual motor set-up offers maximum power of 400 kilowatts, enabling it to sprint from 0kmh to 100kmh in 4.5 seconds, and making it the world’s fastest MPV. The X SUV is about the same size as the Nissan Qashqai at 4.4m long. Two versions are offered in the other markets where Zeekr is already operating. One has a 200kW motor that powers the rear wheels and boasts a range of up to 440km and the other is a zippier 315kW dual-motor all-wheel-drive version that can cover 400km on a single charge. Singapore, Hong Kong and Macau will be the first places where Zeekr right-hand drive cars are available. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/chinese-ev-maker-zeekr-s-cars-to-be-sold-in-singapore-with-deliveries-from-q3-2024

https://www.stomp.sg/singapore-seen/woman-hurls-vulgarities-man-during-argument-train-calls-him-stupid-old-dude Woman argues with commuter over her touching his leg, hurls vulgarities and calls him 'stupid old dude' A man and a woman sitting beside each other in the corner seat on the MRT train got into a fierce argument, where the woman did not hold back her language. A Stomper shared a video of the incident on April 25 at 2.37pm, though it is unclear what transpired before the video was taken. But the woman seemed to be angry at the man for accusing her of touching his leg with her foot as well as littering on the MRT platform. In the first clip, she insulted him: "Stupid old f***ing dude. I'm not even touching you. P***y." In the longer clip, while waving her finger at the man, she said: "I don't even touch you." He replied: "I did not see it. I did not see it." The woman continued to scold the man loudly: "So next time you pick up the rubbish in public, so that you don't become a f***ing b***h to the public and somebody else has to pick up after you in public. An adult knows how to pick up after themselves." He rebutted: "Good people don't speak the way you speak." She responded: "Then you don't shout at me for doing this, when I didn't even touch you. "You're the one that threw the rubbish on the platform. OK? So shut the f*** up. So don't make other people pick up your rubbish because all these workers are suffering and jobs are like s***." Defending himself, the man said: "I didn't see it. I didn't see it. You understand? I didn't see it." The two went back and forth until eventually, the woman revealed the supposed reason for their argument. "You just shouted at me for this and I'm not even touching you," she said, pointing to her crossed legs. The man responded: "Most people don't sit this way." She pointed down the carriage and shouted: "Most people don't sit this way? Let me go down the entire f***ing train and see who's crossing your f***ing legs." Getting up from his seat, he said: "Go ahead." She told him: "I'm not going to go. You go." As the man exited the train, the woman clapped and cheered. She said: "Get out of the f***ing train, loser. F***ing rubbish. Never even pick up. You're f***ing balding b***h. Get out." The man reiterated that he "didn't see it." Having the last word, she told him, "You didn't see it? Everybody f***ing saw it. Get the f*** out. You pick up your f***ing rubbish up for yourself. B***h." The video ends with the man leaving the carriage and the woman going on her phone.

Source: https://mothership.sg/2025/03/johor-1-5-billion-reservoirs-water-treatment-plants/ Malaysia will be injecting more than RM5 billion (S$1.5 billion) to construct three reservoirs and three water treatment plants in Johor Bahru, as the state aims to cut its reliance on treated water imports from Singapore by 2030. The three reservoirs will be built along Sungai Johor, Sungai Pontian Besar, and Sungai Sedili Besar, with a projected combined cost of more than RM1.6 billion (S$482 million), New Straits Times reported. The three water treatment plants, which will expand Johor's treated water supply by 41 per cent to 3,061 MLD per day, will cost about RM3.5 billion (S$1 billion). The three reservoirs will be funded by the federal Malaysian government, while the three water treatment plants will be funded by the Johor state government through water operator Ranhill SAJ. Zero Dependency Project The two projects are an important part of Malaysia's Zero Dependency Project, which aims to reduce the country's reliance on treated water from Singapore after 2030, said Johor's Public Works, Transport, Infrastructure, and Communications Committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh. The new reservoirs will meet the increasing demand from the population and industries, with the immediate focus on supporting the growth of industries in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). Johor currently imports about 16 million gallons of treated water daily from Singapore, substantially more than the 5 million gallons daily required under the 1962 Johor River Water Agreement. Malaysia’s Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said on Dec 2, 2024 that treating the same amount of water locally would cost about RM1.80 (S$0.54) per cubic metre, while Singapore's treated water costs about RM0.11 (S$0.03) per cubic metre. Achieve self-sufficiency While there are benefits in continuing to purchase treated water from Singapore, Johor is determined to achieve self-sufficiency, especially as industrial demand grows. Johor has already given approval for 17 new data centres, which will need about 59.06 million litres of treated water daily. According to The Straits Times, this would account for 2.7 per cent of Johor's total treated water capacity. Johor Investment and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Lee Ting Han said that by 2030, the state could host up to 30 data centres, highlighting the need for a sustainable water strategy. Townships such as Iskandar Puteri, Kulai, and Tanjung Langsat Industrial Hub are undergoing massive development, each requiring a major water supply. Johor plans to increase the state's water reserve margin by 10 to 15 per cent to support growth and address potential emergencies.