Search the Community

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/

If you've ever told an overseas friend that you enjoy driving, you've probably received a puzzled look in return. "Driving? In Singapore?" After all, we're talking about an island where you can travel from Tuas to Changi in about an hour if traffic is kind. It’s a place so small that many tourists accidentally visit three attractions before lunch. Yet Singaporeans spend eye-watering sums on cars. We queue for COEs, obsess over horsepower figures we'll rarely use, and debate tyre brands like sommeliers discussing wine. Why? Well, because somewhere along the way, we've convinced ourselves that driving isn't just transport. It's an experience. And that's where the great Singapore road trip myth begins. The road trip isn't the destination Ask an American about a road trip and they'll tell you stories about crossing states. Ask an Australian and they'll describe journeys measured in days. Ask a Singaporean and they'll excitedly announce they've driven to Punggol for supper. Technically speaking, that's less of a road trip and more of an errand. But here's the thing: Enjoyment behind the wheel was never really about distance. If it were, nobody would enjoy a Porsche on a race circuit. You just keep going round and round. Driving pleasure comes from the road, the car and the experience - not necessarily the number of kilometres covered, methinks. Singapore has its own version of driving enjoyment The best driving roads in Singapore aren't famous. In fact, some aren't even roads enthusiasts would mention publicly for fear of attracting attention. There's Old Upper Thomson Road's winding bends, the stretches around Lim Chu Kang, and the occasional early-morning run along South Buona Vista Road before the rest of the island wakes up. Are they the Alps? Not even remotely, but they offer something every driving enthusiast understands: Rhythm. A good road doesn't need to be long. It just needs to make you smile. We secretly treat driving as therapy I mean, think about it. How many times have you heard someone say, "I just went for a drive to clear my head"? Not, "I drove somewhere." Just drove. Singaporeans may complain about traffic, ERP gantries and parking charges, but many of us still enjoy those rare moments when the roads open up and the radio is playing the right song. It's one of the few places left where you're genuinely disconnected from notifications, meetings and WhatsApp messages. Well, unless you're stopped at a red light. The real road trip starts at Woodlands Let's be honest. When Singaporeans talk about road trips, we're usually talking about Malaysia. A drive to Malacca, Penang or Kuala Lumpur offers something Singapore simply cannot: The feeling that there's always another road beyond the next horizon. I think that's why so many local drivers love cross-border journeys. It's not just the destination. It's the freedom. Ironically, our tiny island may be the reason we appreciate those trips even more. So can you enjoy driving on an island that's 50km wide? Absolutely. Singapore may not offer epic highways or mountain passes. But driving was never about crossing continents. It's about that perfectly timed downshift on a quiet road. It's about discovering a new supper spot. It's about taking the long route home after a tough day. Or simply enjoying a machine you've worked incredibly hard to own. The truth is, Singapore isn't too small for driving enthusiasts. We just have a much shorter road trip. And judging by the number of cars filling our roads every day, that's clearly enough. ~ Julian

For a structure designed purely to store vehicles, the humble multi-storey carpark is surprisingly social. I mean, think about it. We've held countless conversations in them, conducted impromptu business meetings, settled relationship disputes and even discussed football, politics, and which nasi lemak stall has "dropped standard". Entire friendships have been formed because someone noticed another person's interesting car! Yet nobody ever says, "Let's hang out at the multi-storey carpark." And somehow, that's exactly what happens. The fifth floor is premium real estate Every Singaporean knows there are two types of parking lots. The convenient ones, and the ones that require a Sherpa guide, two water breaks and a replacement pair of shoes to reach the lift lobby - which is why experienced drivers instinctively gravitate towards certain levels. Not because they're closer, but because they're quieter. If you've ever arrived early for an appointment, chances are you've found yourself sitting in a parked car, air-conditioning running, coffee in hand, scrolling your phone while waiting. Congratulations. You have participated in Singapore's largest unofficial social club. Car enthusiasts discovered this long ago Long before social media groups and WhatsApp chats became the norm, multi-storey carparks were where enthusiasts gathered. Not because the view was fantastic, but because they offered shelter from rain, plenty of parking spaces and an endless supply of interesting machines. Even today, visit certain carparks on a Friday night and you'll find everything from modified Japanese sports cars to family SUVs parked side by side. The conversations are always the same. "How much horsepower?" "What's your fuel consumption?" "How much did the rims cost?" Nobody truly needs the answers. They're just enjoying the discussion. The EV charging bay has become the new kopitiam Here's something fascinating. As electric vehicles become more common, charging stations are quietly transforming into social spaces. See, a petrol stop takes five minutes, while an EV charging session can take much longer. So what do people do while waiting? Well, they chit chat. Drivers compare charging experiences, share recommendations, discuss electricity costs and debate whether regenerative braking is brilliant or annoying. It's basically a modern version of Singaporeans gathering around a kopitiam table. The only difference is that everyone's comparing charging apps instead of kopi orders. Singaporeans are naturally kaypoh Because, let's be honest. Part of the multi-storey carpark experience involves harmless curiosity. You're walking back to your car and suddenly notice a new vehicle you've never seen before. You slow down. Maybe walk one extra lap. Perhaps glance through the window. But not because you're buying one. You simply want to know. Singaporeans love discovering things, and carparks offer a fascinating snapshot of how people live. In a single level, you'll see practical family cars, luxury sedans, delivery vans, performance cars and increasingly, electric vehicles. It's like a free automotive census. More than just a place to park The funny thing is that carparks reveal a lot about Singapore itself. We're a highly connected society, yet we still crave physical spaces to meet. We complain about driving costs, but happily spend an extra twenty minutes discussing cars with strangers. We rush everywhere, yet somehow find time to linger beside a lift lobby chatting about tyres. The multi-storey carpark was never designed to be a community space. But Singaporeans, being Singaporeans, found a way. So the next time you're sipping takeaway coffee in your parked car, waiting for a friend who's "five minutes away" but clearly isn't, take a look around. You might just be sitting in one of Singapore's most underrated social clubs. Membership, fortunately, is free. Provided you can find parking. ~ Julian

Let's play a dangerous game. Take the current cost of a Certificate of Entitlement (COE), look at the number carefully, and ask yourself: "What else could I buy with this money?" A business-class trip to Europe? Several luxury holidays? A year's worth of fancy omakase dinners? Perhaps all of the above. At some point, every Singapore car owner has stared at a COE price and wondered if they have completely lost the plot. And yet, many of us still buy cars. The world's most expensive convenience Believe you me, explaining Singapore car ownership to foreigners is one of life's great challenges. You start with the vehicle price. Then explain COE. Then Additional Registration Fee. Then road tax. Then Electronic Road Pricing. By this point, your overseas friend has stopped listening and is busy checking whether you've accidentally converted the numbers into the wrong currency. The reality is that a typical Singapore car often costs significantly more than the exact same model elsewhere, which naturally leads to the eternal question: Wouldn't you rather spend that money travelling the world? The holiday argument sounds convincing So now, we start rethinking our life choices. Sure, on paper, it makes perfect sense. A holiday creates memories. A car depreciates. A holiday broadens horizons. A car spends a lot of its time parked (especially when you drive to the office daily or travel frequently). A holiday lets you explore new places. A car mostly lets you explore Tampines from a slightly different angle. Financially speaking, the holiday camp has a strong case. Many Singaporeans can comfortably rely on public transport, ride-hailing services and the occasional taxi. Our MRT system reaches most parts of the island, and a Grab is rarely more than a few minutes away, which is why countless spreadsheets have concluded that owning a car is irrational. The problem, I reckon, is that spreadsheets don't have children. Convenience is surprisingly difficult to price Ask a young professional whether they would trade a car for three holidays and the answer may be yes. Ask parents juggling school runs, enrichment classes, grocery shopping and weekend family outings, and the calculation suddenly becomes more complicated. A car isn't always about driving. Sometimes it's about not having to carry four shopping bags through three train interchanges. Sometimes it's about getting a sleeping child home without waking them. And sometimes, just sometimes, it's about being able to leave immediately when your family wants to. The value of convenience rarely appears neatly in a financial model. Yet it often determines purchasing decisions. Singaporeans don't buy cars for the same reasons anymore 20 years ago, a car was often seen as a status symbol. Today, that perception has evolved. For many households, cars have become lifestyle tools. The rise of SUVs is a good example. Most owners aren't climbing mountains or crossing deserts. They're transporting children, pets, sports equipment and occasionally enough bubble tea to supply a small office. The purchase isn't always about prestige. Often, it's about practicality, though admittedly, having a nice-looking car doesn't hurt. The answer nobody likes So, should you spend COE money on a holiday instead? The frustrating answer is that both sides are right. If you're evaluating purely from a financial perspective, the holiday probably wins. If you're evaluating based on convenience, flexibility and daily quality of life, the car starts making a compelling case. The mistake is assuming the decision is purely mathematical. Cars are emotional purchases. Always have been. That's why people still choose convertibles despite Singapore's weather, sports cars despite our speed limits, and performance SUVs despite spending most of their lives in traffic. The real question Perhaps the better (or real) question isn't whether a car costs as much as a holiday. It's whether the car improves your life enough to justify the cost. For some Singaporeans, the answer is no. For others, the answer arrives every morning when they skip a crowded commute, every weekend when the family piles in for an outing, and every time they take the long route home after a difficult day. And that's why, despite knowing exactly how many holidays the money could buy, many Singaporeans still sign on the dotted line, then immediately stop calculating. ~ Julian

In Singapore, appearances can be deceiving. The person pulling up in a badge-heavy luxury SUV could be servicing a seven-year loan and surviving on cai png economics. Meanwhile, the fellow in a humble Japanese crossover might own three properties, have a healthy investment portfolio, and regard COE premiums as a minor inconvenience. The truth is, looking affluent and actually being affluent are two very different things. And contrary to popular belief, you don't need a continental badge to project success. Drive something tasteful, not flashy The fastest way to look like you're trying too hard is to try too hard. A well-specced Mazda, Hyundai, Kia or even a sleek BYD can look every bit as sophisticated as some entry-level luxury models. Modern car design has levelled the playing field significantly. Many mainstream brands now offer premium interiors, large infotainment screens and striking exterior styling. In fact, most Singaporeans can tell the difference between a Ferrari and a Honda. Beyond that? Not so much. A clean, smart-looking car says more about you than a prestigious badge covered in road grime. Keep it immaculate Nothing destroys the illusion of success faster than a filthy car. You don't need a Rolls-Royce to look wealthy. You just need your car to look like someone cares about it. Regular washes, clean rims, a clutter-free cabin and seats that aren't doubling as storage space for NTUC receipts can work wonders. The guy driving a spotless Toyota Corolla often appears more put together than the owner of a neglected luxury sedan. Wealth whispers. Dirt shouts. Stop chasing the biggest car possible Singaporeans have a habit of equating bigger with better. But in a city where parking lots seem designed by people who dislike cars, a massive SUV isn't always a flex. Choosing a vehicle that genuinely suits your lifestyle often appears more confident and mature. A compact EV for urban commuting, a stylish wagon for family duties, or a practical crossover for weekend adventures all suggest thoughtful decision-making. And nothing says confidence quite like not needing to impress strangers at a traffic light. Master the art of arriving You know what's more impressive than a luxury car? Actually arriving on time. Being punctual, composed and organised creates an impression that no premium badge can buy. The driver who calmly arrives for a meeting with a coffee in hand often looks more successful than the one who screeches into the carpark five minutes late in a six-figure saloon. People remember how you carry yourself long after they've forgotten what you drove. Let your lifestyle do the talking The truly affluent rarely make their car the centrepiece of their personality. They talk about experiences. Travel. Food. Hobbies. Family. Investments. A car should support your lifestyle, not define it. This is especially relevant today, when monthly car ownership costs in Singapore can rival a mortgage payment. Spending sensibly on a vehicle may free up resources for the things that actually enrich life, whether that's annual holidays, good dining experiences or building long-term financial security. The Real Luxury Here's a little secret - the most convincing way to look rich without driving a luxury car is to stop caring whether people think you're rich. Buy a car that suits your needs. Keep it clean. Drive courteously. Spend within your means. Because in Singapore, where COEs can make almost any car expensive, true status isn't about what's on your bonnet. It's about having the confidence to know that it doesn't matter. ~ Julian

Singaporeans will tell you not to judge a person by their car. Singaporeans are also lying. In a country where owning a car often costs more than a university degree, your choice of wheels says plenty about who you are. Not everything, of course. But enough to start a conversation while waiting for your car wash slot. So, in the spirit of harmless observation, here's the unofficial Singapore Driver Personality Guide. The Toyota driver: The adult in the room You researched fuel economy before buying your car. You know the cost of servicing down to the dollar. You have a spreadsheet comparing insurance premiums. You also secretly enjoy telling your friends that your car starts every morning while theirs is on its third trip to the workshop this year. When everyone else is chasing horsepower, you're chasing peace of mind. And honestly? You're probably winning. The BMW driver: The overachiever Your calendar has more colour coding than Marina Bay Sands has lights. You believe life is too short for boring cars. Every drive to the office is an opportunity to enjoy a perfectly weighted steering wheel and just a little bit of turbocharged acceleration. You insist you don't care what people think. The fact that you've said it three times today suggests otherwise. The Tesla driver: The tech evangelist You probably know your car's software version. You've explained regenerative braking to at least five people who didn't ask. You've also checked charging station availability more often than you've checked your CPF balance. Every conversation somehow finds its way back to batteries, charging speed or over-the-air updates. You're not driving a car. You're beta testing the future. The Conti SUV driver: Family CEO Your car spends weekdays transporting children and weekends transporting groceries from three different supermarkets because "the grapes are better at this one". You know where every shopping mall's family parking lot is located. Your vehicle may have 300bhp, but most of its duties involve carrying booster seats, school bags and emotional support snacks. Respect. The Chinese EV driver: The early adopter Three years ago, your friends asked, "Who's heard of that brand?" Today, they're asking for a test drive. You love finding hidden gems, whether it's a new restaurant, a new gadget or a new electric vehicle brand offering twice the equipment at the same price. You don't follow trends. You arrive before they become trends. The Porsche driver: The dream chaser For some Singaporeans, a Porsche is a car. For you, it's a life achievement unlocked. You remember the poster on your childhood bedroom wall. You remember the first time you sat in one. You definitely remember the day you finally collected the keys. The drive itself is important. But the journey to get there means even more. The COE survivor Your car is 12-years old. It has dents, scratches and a suspicious rattle that nobody can identify. But you've renewed the COE because you're determined to extract every last dollar of value from it. When friends talk about buying a new car, you simply smile and calculate how much money you've saved. You're not cheap. You're financially enlightened. So, what does your car really say about you? Probably less than we think. Yet in Singapore, where cars are among life's biggest purchases, they often reflect our priorities, ambitions and lifestyles. Some chase practicality. Some chase performance. Others simply need enough boot space for a family trip to Johor Bahru. At the end of the day, the best car isn't the one that impresses your neighbours. It's the one that fits your life. Although if it's a bright yellow sports car with a flat-six engine, we're definitely judging. Positively, of course. ~ Julian

If you've spent more than five minutes on Singapore social media, you've probably seen someone declare that car ownership is officially dead. "COE is over $100,000." "Cars are a terrible investment." "You can take Grab everywhere." And yet, every time a new car launches, showrooms remain busy. Dealers are still moving metal. Roads are still full. Which raises a simple question: If COE is so expensive, why are Singaporeans still buying cars? Cars have evolved from "transportation" to "lifestyle" Let's be honest. Nobody buys a car in Singapore because it's the cheapest way to get around. If that was the goal, the MRT won years ago. Today, many Singaporeans view a car the same way they view a holiday, a luxury watch or a premium gym membership. It's no longer just about getting from Point A to Point B. It's about convenience, freedom and quality of life. The ability to leave home at your own time, avoid peak-hour crowds and decide on a spontaneous supper run to East Coast Park has become increasingly valuable. People aren't paying for transportation. They're paying for control over their time. Time has become Singapore's most valuable currency Singaporeans are working harder than ever. Many are juggling demanding careers, children, ageing parents and increasingly packed schedules. When your day starts with school drop-offs, work meetings and after-school activities, a car suddenly becomes less of a luxury and more of a productivity tool. The difference between a 25-minute drive and a 75-minute public transport journey might not seem huge on paper. But over a year? That's a lot of life being given back. And unlike money, nobody can top up your time once it's gone. The rise of the "Weekend Escape" If there's one thing Singaporeans love, it's leaving Singapore. Whether it's Johor Bahru for supper, Desaru for a short getaway or Kuala Lumpur for a long weekend, cars have become the passport to spontaneous travel. The ability to pack the family, load up the boot and cross the Causeway on your own schedule has become an increasingly attractive proposition. Particularly after years of travel disruptions, Singaporeans seem more determined than ever to maximise their weekends. A car makes that easier. Much easier. EVs are changing the equation Another reason? Electric vehicles. For many buyers, EVs have transformed the ownership proposition. Lower running costs, smoother performance and increasingly sophisticated technology have attracted a new group of consumers who may not have considered buying a car previously. The modern EV isn't just a vehicle. It's a giant smartphone, lounge chair and road-trip companion rolled into one. And if we're being honest, the instant acceleration never gets old. Singaporeans still love cars This may be the simplest explanation of all. Despite rising costs and endless discussions about practicality, Singapore has always had a strong car culture. We admire good design. We enjoy driving. We love road trips. We debate brands like football fans discuss their favourite teams. Cars remain emotional purchases. A Toyota might represent reliability. A BMW might symbolise achievement. A Porsche could be the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. Some purchases are made with the head. Cars are often made with the heart. So, is buying a car crazy? Perhaps. But so is spending thousands on luxury watches, fine dining or business-class flights. The reality is that value means different things to different people. For some Singaporeans, a car is an unnecessary expense. For others, it's convenience, family time, freedom, flexibility and enjoyment wrapped into one very expensive package. And that's why, even when COE crosses the $100,000 mark, people keep buying cars. Because in Singapore, the question has never really been, "Can I get by without a car?" It's always been, "What is my time, freedom and sanity worth?" ~ Julian

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/psd-reviewing-civil-servant-housing-data?utm_source=a1home&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=a1trendingc&utm_content=x2 Well, I know Li Shengwu has an axe to grind, but he would also be privy to things hoi polloi would not know. I predict this thing will just get denied by the gahmen. Its hard to prove such intent, I would think.

Hello, I'm posting a new topic to ask questions as I can't find any information about this in this forum. Hope I'm posting it in the right place. I am planning a road trip to Malaysia with extended family. There will be 7 of us. My car, being a sedan, can only take 5 at most. 7 includes 4 adults and 3 kids - for the 3 kids present, need one infant child seat (less than a year old), one toddler's child seat (2+ years old), and one full sized child seat for a 5 year old. So quite obviously I need something substantially bigger than my Sonata. So I am looking for a cost effective way to take a road trip up north - hence looking to rent a large MPV. I have in the mind the MY Hyundai Starex which I rented from Hertz MY a long time ago. In that occasion, it was rented from KLIA cos my sister's family took a flight into MY. This time, I intend to start from home here in SG. I see many of these MY Hyundai Starex coming into SG to pick up passengers into JB for day trips. Just wanted to ask if anyone here has tried something like that. I intend to rent the car for two weeks in MY. I need the car to come out to SG to pick up my family plus fit all the child seats and return us to SG. Looking to do Melaka, Ipoh, Cameron Highlands, KL & Penang. I have done this before in my own car. Any price/charges indication would be quite helpful. Also any other considerations? Insurance, legal matters, accident claims, and word of advice? I have driven the car before (the 2011 model) in the previous trip where I picked up the car at KLIA. I have also looked at some advertisements for such car rentals in Carousell. Not sure if anyone has used them before and have any experience to share? One such advertisement rent the car for S$135 for weekday, and S$145 for weekends, plus S$110 for one way shuttle to pick up from SG. Thank you very much!

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

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?

During the 2014ish haze. I simply taped 2x Hepa filters behind a box fan. That still works today and I just replaced the filters for the 2026 edition. [ Super easy to make, Just buy the HEPA about the same dimensions of the box fan and tap the hell out of the corners. Run it on low setting and it really makes a difference. Fan doesn't need to go on high mode as you need to move air slowly to suck up the PM2.5 nasties. Fast fwd to 2026 WhatsApp Video 2026-10-15 at 11.18.14 AM.mp4 I made another design just last week. i hooted 6x CPU type of fans on PDD 2-3weeks ago and taped another HEPA filter with carbon behind this one. This type came with a variable knob can adjust fan speed. Also works very well. I know Shopee/Laz all OOS with their air filters. Hopefully my designs can help u find what you need to do. U can't find "formal" branded air filters now, cause all OOS, but HEPA replacements and fans (box type of CPU type) can still be found. Of course duct tape as well. Hope it helps ya!

I'm not a lawyer, so any actual lawyers here can feel free to weigh in. But anyway, of late I find myself reading up on law cases in Singapore. Apparently a lot of our court case judgements are available online to read. I find them quite interesting because sometimes the story plotline can be better than any movie or drama. I also find it quite educational to learn about criminal process, legal process and law stuff as well. I also watch shows like True Files and Crimewatch but mostly to complement what I have read about the cases I read. I've learnt quite a few things from reading about all these stuff, and I guess it might be helpful (or not) to talk about some common misconceptions about the law that people have and perhaps clear them up. Again, I'm not a lawyer, and this is just based on what I've read, so if there's any inaccuracy please feel free to jump in. I'll start with this one. Losing an appeal will see your sentence increased This is untrue. Losing your appeal does not actually affect your original sentence in any way. What actually happens is that once the original sentence is passed, the accused (by now the convicted) has a right to appeal to Court of Appeal, either to reduce the sentence, amend the charge to a lesser charge, or reverse the conviction (i.e. acquittal). At the same time, the Prosecutor also has the opportunity to appeal as well, to ask for a larger punishment if they deem the original sentence insufficient. Sometimes (but not always) this happens simultaneously. If both sides appeal at the same time then the Court of Appeal will hear both together just for convenience and to expedite the proceedings. But each appeal is judged on its own merits, and each side will have to argue their case accordingly. If the Prosecution wins their appeal it therefore means the accused would have lost his. But the Prosecution does not always enter appeal and so it's not a given that a lost appeal from the accused would result in a greater sentence. I'll add on other stuff later on if anybody is interested but let's begin with this for now.

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.

Ask a Singaporean in the 1990s what their dream car was and you'd probably hear the usual suspects – BMW, Mercedes-Benz and maybe a sports car with an exhaust loud enough to wake half the neighbourhood. Fast forward to today, and something interesting has happened. The Singaporean dream car hasn't disappeared. It has evolved. And contrary to what many people think, it's no longer defined solely by horsepower, prestige or how quickly it reaches 100km/h. The modern dream car is something far more practical. The dream used to be about arriving For decades, cars in Singapore were status symbols. Given the cost of ownership, a car wasn't simply transportation. It was a statement. It told the world you'd "made it". A premium badge on the driveway often mattered just as much as what sat behind the steering wheel. And to be fair, that's still true for some buyers. Nobody buys a Porsche and hopes nobody notices. But younger buyers increasingly view cars differently. Instead of asking, "What impression does this car make?", they're asking, "How well does this fit my life?" That's a very different conversation. The new dream car is surprisingly boring Before you get angry, hear me out. The best-selling and most sought-after cars today often have one thing in common. They make life easier. That's it. They're spacious, efficient easy to park, packed with technology and comfortable enough for daily commuting and practical enough for weekend family duties. In other words, the modern dream car isn't necessarily the fastest car. It's the car that solves the most problems. Suddenly, things like rear legroom, charging speed, boot capacity and wireless Apple CarPlay matter just as much as acceleration figures. That's not boring. Perhaps, just perhaps, that's maturity. Or at least that's what we tell ourselves. Singaporeans are buying convenience Consider how we actually use our cars, most aren't being driven on race circuits and they aren't tackling off-road trails. Instead, most spend their lives navigating ERP gantries, picking up children, heading to supermarkets and sitting in traffic on the PIE. In that environment, convenience becomes king. A high seating position? Check. Easy entry and exit? Check. Enough boot space for a stroller, groceries and the occasional IKEA purchase? Check. These are the things that generate genuine happiness in daily ownership. Not whether your car shaves 0.3 seconds off its century sprint timing. Well, at least not for most. The rise of the electric dream A few years ago, many Singaporeans viewed electric vehicles as niche products. Today, they're increasingly part of the dream. Not because they're environmentally friendly, although that's certainly a factor. But I do reckon it's because they suit Singapore. A typical driver covers relatively short distances, charging infrastructure continues to grow and home charging is becoming more common. And perhaps most importantly, the instant torque makes even mundane commutes feel a little more exciting. Many buyers who once dreamt of six-cylinder engines are now comparing charging speeds and battery ranges. 10 years ago, that would have sounded ridiculous. Today, it's perfectly normal. The one thing that hasn't changed Despite all this talk about practicality, one thing remains constant - Singaporeans still buy cars with their hearts. We may justify the purchase with spreadsheets, fuel consumption figures and depreciation calculations. But emotion still plays a role. That's why some people choose a sporty coupe over a sensible sedan. Why others insist on a continental badge or certain buyers spend more than necessary simply because a particular car makes them smile. A dream car should do that. Otherwise, it's just an appliance. So what is the Singaporean dream car today? I believe the answer is simple. It's no longer a specific model. It's a car that fits your lifestyle. For a young professional, that might be a compact EV. For a growing family, it could be a seven-seater SUV. For an enthusiast, it might still be a sports car parked in the basement waiting for weekend drives. The dream isn't about owning the most expensive vehicle anymore. It's about owning the right one. And perhaps that's a sign that Singapore's car buyers have become more sophisticated. Or maybe we've simply reached the stage in life where a powered tailgate feels more exciting than an extra 50 horsepower. Honestly, there's a good chance it's both. ~Julian

AirAsia's new premium flatbed from Singapore offers comfort on a budget source: https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/travel/airasias-new-premium-flatbed-from-singapore-offers-comfort-on-a-budget?cx_testId=20&cx_testVariant=cx_1&cx_artPos=2#cxrecs_s Travelling abroad can be exciting and exhausting at times, whether it’s a short weekend getaway or an important business trip. The stress of packing and getting ready for the trip can leave you feeling fatigued, especially if the flight is in the early morning. In order to arrive at your destination fresh, you need proper rest on board the flight. Therein lies the predicament: Do you have to break the bank to enjoy premium comfort that is associated with flying business class? Thankfully, with AirAsia, you can fly in luxurious comfort at maximum affordability - no matter how far, or near, your next destination is. Having flown over one million passengers to and from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur (KL) to date since January this year, AirAsia has heard its passengers: It now offers 80 flights a week to the Malaysian capital, up from 73, with increased capacity for two of their daily flights. Operating a wide-body Airbus A330, with 377 seats available instead of the usual 180 on the A320, passengers can look forward to a spacious plane which includes quiet zone seats for travellers who prefer fewer disturbances, as well as premium flatbed seats which are new to this route. These seats are perfect for a quick power nap so that you’re recharged and ready to go once you land at Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2. The premium flatbed seats were first available in AirAsia’s inaugural A330 flight to Kuala Lumpur on Nov 10 this year. They provide a highly comfortable flying experience thanks to the ample leg room and adjustable seats which can be fully reclined to become a flatbed. The passengers can stretch out and get some shuteye during the hour-long journey. Plus, these premium flatbed seats come with privacy screens, complimentary meals and convenient power outlets; you can recharge in more ways than one — you won’t have to worry about feeling hungry or your electronics running out of juice when you land. The air fare also comes with a free 40kg check-in baggage allowance so that you can experience fuss-free travelling without any packing woes. Trying these seats in person, one can feel how much of a difference they make compared to flying in a regular economy class seat. The already short flight to KL felt even shorter thanks to the comfort it provided, and the seat controls were simple to operate. Taller passengers will certainly appreciate the generous amount of space afforded, and being able to enjoy the journey in a flatbed made it feel like a truly exceptional flying experience. The best part of AirAsia’s latest offering? Value for money. Choosing the premium flatbed option will not set you back an exorbitant amount. The suite experience in the sky starts from S$169 for AirAsia BIG loyalty members and S$171 for non-members. Flying in comfort and style need not be expensive anymore. If you’re looking for the perfect holiday quickie to enjoy the festive season without breaking the bank, then AirAsia can help you experience the best of both worlds. AirAsia would like to thank its loyal customers for their unwavering belief in the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline. To book your flights today, visit . Fares start from S$51; Premium Flatbed seats start from S$169 for AirAsia BIG loyalty members and S$171 for non-members. No processing fees are included for flights to Malaysia. Click to find out more about AirAsia’s premium flatbed.

Every Singapore driver knows this conversation. "I'm coming down." Five words. Five lies. That’s because "coming down" could mean leaving the office, finding a handbag, finishing a bubble tea, taking the lift, or starting a Netflix episode before eventually appearing 15 minutes later. As a result, Singaporean drivers spend a surprising amount of their lives waiting. Outside schools, outside shopping malls, outside condominium drop-off points, outside MRT stations, outside practically everywhere! And while we may look like we're simply sitting in our cars doing nothing, the truth is far more interesting. The car has become Singapore's second living room The average Singaporean car owner pays a small fortune for the privilege of ownership. COE, road tax, insurance, parking and ERP all add up. So perhaps it's no surprise that many of us have started treating our cars like mobile living rooms. Waiting for someone often means enjoying a rare moment of peace. No colleagues, no family obligations and certainly no one asking where you've saved the latest PowerPoint presentation. Just you, air-conditioning and silence. For some people, that's worth almost as much as the car itself. We scroll. A lot Let's be honest. The first thing most Singaporeans do while waiting is reach for their phones. Ample things to do here – WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, news websites, car listings on Sgcarmart, more car listings. And then somehow back to car listings again. Entire used-car purchases have probably started because somebody had 10 spare minutes while waiting outside a tuition centre. Many drivers know more about cars they'll never buy than the cars they currently own. Me included. We secretly become professional people-watchers And it’s precisely while waiting in cars that us Singapore drivers realise that we possess a remarkable talent. We can identify a neighbour, colleague or relative from 100m away based solely on their walking style. Waiting in a car creates the perfect environment for observation. You notice who always runs for the bus. Who insists on carrying ten shopping bags at once. Who says they're leaving the office but clearly hasn't. Ah, it's not spying. It's research. At least that's what we tell ourselves. We eat meals we'd never admit to There's also a hidden culinary side to waiting. A surprising number of meals are consumed behind the wheel. There’s the quick curry puff before school pick-up, the potential chicken rice takeaway eaten in a shaded corner of a carpark, the kopi that somehow tastes better when enjoyed alone in a parked car. And amazingly, many Singaporeans have mastered the art of eating without leaving evidence. No crumbs, no stains and no suspicious smells. It's a skill developed through years of practice. The car becomes a mobile office For professionals, waiting time is productive time. Phone calls get returned. Emails are answered. Voice notes are recorded. Hell, entire business decisions are sometimes made from the driver's seat outside a shopping centre! The rise of hybrid work has only accelerated this trend. The modern Singaporean car is no longer just transport. It's a meeting room, office and quiet workspace wrapped into one. EV drivers have taken waiting to another level Electric vehicles have added a new twist. While charging, drivers often have 20 to 40 minutes to spare. Some work, some watch videos while some decide to grab a coffee. Others end up talking to fellow EV owners about charging apps, electricity costs and whether regenerative braking is the greatest invention since sliced bread. Charging stations are quietly becoming mini social hubs. A bit like a kopitiam, except everybody is discussing kilowatts instead of football. What waiting really says about Singapore Here's the funny thing. Waiting for someone is one of the few moments left when Singaporeans are forced to slow down. No rushing between appointments and chasing deadlines. No sprinting for the MRT and the bus. Just a brief pause in an otherwise hectic day. And perhaps that's why so many people don't mind it. What begins as five minutes outside a mall often turns into a moment of relaxation, reflection or harmless kaypoh observation. So the next time someone texts, "I'm coming down," don't get frustrated. Use the time wisely. Check your messages. Finish your coffee. People-watch a little. Browse a few car listings you definitely don't need on Sgcarmart, because if there's one thing Singapore drivers have mastered, it's making the most of waiting for someone who's supposedly already on the way. ~Julian

If you've ever sat in someone else's car in Singapore, you'll know this simple truth: Being a passenger is not as easy as it looks. Sure, you're not the one paying for petrol, road tax, insurance, parking, ERP, and a COE that costs more than some overseas apartments. But that doesn't mean you're free from responsibility. In fact, every Singapore driver has a set of unwritten rules. They are never spoken aloud. They are never displayed on the dashboard. Yet somehow, everyone is expected to know them. Here are a few of the most important ones. Rule #1: Do not touch the air-con controls The driver spent five minutes finding the perfect air-con temperature. It is not too cold. It is not too warm. It is precisely calibrated for maximum driving comfort. The moment a passenger reaches over and adjusts the temperature from 23 degrees to 21 degrees without permission, an invisible line has been crossed. You may think you're just making yourself more comfortable. The driver thinks you're launching a hostile takeover. Rule #2: If you said “I know the way”, you better know the way There is no greater confidence than someone saying: "Don't worry, I know where we're going." Five minutes later: "Eh... I think it's the next turn." Two minutes later: "No wait, maybe it's the other one." At this point, the driver is already opening Google Maps while silently questioning every life decision that led to this moment. If you volunteer to be the navigator, you have accepted a sacred responsibility. Don't betray the trust. Rule #3: Help look out for parking lots This is especially true in crowded places like Orchard, VivoCity, and almost every shopping mall on a weekend. The driver is already under enough stress. As a passenger, your role is to become an additional set of eyes. Even if the driver misses three vacant lots after you've pointed them out, your duty remains unchanged. Keep searching. Singapore parking is a team sport. Rule #4: Never say “Can fit” Every driver has heard it before - "Can fit lah." These three words have caused more anxiety than a blinking fuel light. Usually, the phrase is uttered while attempting to squeeze into a parking space that appears to have been designed for a supermarket trolley rather than a car. And when something goes wrong? The passenger suddenly develops selective memory. "I never say ah." Sure. Rule #5: Don't comment when the driver is parking This is a dangerous period. The driver is concentrating. Mirrors are being checked. The reverse camera is working overtime. This is not the moment to say things like: "Wow, very close" or "Got pillar" or "Careful". The driver is already aware. Trust the process. Rule #6: Respect the driver's petrol station loyalty Every Singaporean driver seems to have a favourite petrol station. Some swear by Shell. Others are loyal to Esso, Caltex or SPC. Ask them why and you'll usually get a detailed explanation involving rewards points, fuel additives, historical discounts and a story from 2017. You do not need to understand it. You just need to respect it. Rule #7: The DJ seat is a privilege, not a right Drivers are surprisingly protective of their music. The playlist has been carefully curated. There is a mood, a flow. There is a reason why the driver is listening to 90s Mandopop, Taylor Swift or classic rock at that particular moment. Randomly connecting your phone and hijacking Spotify is the passenger equivalent of changing someone's wallpaper. Ask first. The Final Rule The biggest unwritten rule of all? Appreciate the driver. In Singapore, owning and running a car isn't cheap. Between the COE, ERP charges, parking fees and rising fuel costs, every trip comes at a price. So whether it's your spouse, friend, colleague or family member behind the wheel, a simple "thanks for the ride" goes a long way. Because while the passenger enjoys the journey, the driver is the one doing all the work. And occasionally pretending not to be annoyed when you touch the air-con controls. ~ Julian (Images from Unsplash)

U go up i go down how to mu...more fun down there many say...✌️😂