REACH (Telegram) 119 - What are your thoughts on the measures taken by the Government in light of the rise in measles cases?

(SK)

09 Feb 2026 (10am - 7pm)

REACH (Telegram)

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 9:26 am]

Welcome Back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from 10am to 7pm today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind:

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited. 

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Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies. 

The topic will be posted shortly. 

Thank you. 

Megan 😊

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 10:01 am]

📢 Topic 📢

On Friday (6 Feb), the Ministry of Health (MOH) announced that Singapore would be introducing measures such as mandatory isolation for measles cases, contact tracing and quarantine of some close contacts, after detecting a rise in infections. These measures come after eleven measles cases were recorded in January, compared with two cases in January 2025 and 27 cases for the whole of 2025.

💬 What are your thoughts on the measures taken by the Government in light of the rise in measles cases?

📌 About measles

Measles, caused by the measles virus, is one of the most highly infectious diseases. The virus is spread through air droplets and direct contact with nasal and throat secretions. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat and rashes.

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said 99 per cent of adults in Singapore have immunity against measles, largely due to the national vaccination programme. 

"Hence the virus will find it hard to spread. But if our immunity coverage falls below 95 per cent, we may start losing our herd immunity," he said in a Facebook post. 

📌 11 cases of measles reported in Jan 2026

All 11 cases were not fully vaccinated against measles, including three infants under 12 months old who were not yet eligible for the MMR vaccine. Among the 11 cases, one was a tourist, while the remaining 10 live in Singapore. Seven of the cases had travelled overseas recently.

Laboratory testing also confirmed that three cases were genetically linked, even though they had no known contact with each other. "This suggests the possibility of undetected local transmission in the community," the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) said in a media release.

📌 Measures against measles

Given the rise in measles cases, Singapore authorities are stepping up precautionary public health measures. These include mandatory isolation of confirmed cases until they are no longer infectious. Cases who are not admitted to hospitals will be placed on home isolation, and random video calls will be conducted to ensure they comply with the rules, CDA said.

Contact tracing will also be conducted for all infected cases. High-risk close contacts such as infants, non-immune pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals will be offered post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to mitigate the risk of severe symptoms in case of an infection.

Medical practitioners are also advised to be vigilant for measles cases, particularly in patients who have recently travelled overseas or who have not been fully vaccinated. Suspected cases should be reported to CDA promptly, the CDA said. 

The CDA also mentioned that vaccination was the best way to prevent measles infection.

“The MMR vaccine is highly effective and safe, and confers long-term immunity after completion of the recommended doses," CDA said.

The CDA added: "High vaccination coverage not only protects individuals but creates herd immunity within the Singapore population that protects those who are unable to receive vaccinations, such as infants under 12 months old and severely immunocompromised individuals."

👉🏻  https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/spore-heightens-precautions-against-measles-amid-global-local-surge-possible-local-transmission

👉🏻 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/measles-cases-singapore-isolation-contact-tracing-quarantine-5912111?

👉🏻 https://www.cda.gov.sg/news-and-events/public-health-measures-stepped-up-as-measles-cases-rise-globally-and-in-singapore/

----

Daniel, [9/2/2026 10:07 am]

Seems reasonable. I would appreciate (in general) clearer guidelines on vaccination recommendations for adults. It can be challenging to know what vaccinations are needed and which one one has gotten as a kid (the old vaccination records can be a bit tricky and the national immunization registry website is rather clunky and outdated and does not reflect older vaccinations).

Daniel, [9/2/2026 10:08 am]

Just noticed this in the context of these news as my wife and I wanted to check whether we had a complete set of measles vaccinations and it proved harder to find out than we thought.

Adam, [9/2/2026 10:45 am]

Yeah i dont know whether i got some vaccine in childhood or not

Adam, [9/2/2026 10:46 am]

And vaccines are expensive

Adam, [9/2/2026 10:46 am]

They reccomend take vaccine, but the incentives are not much

Adam, [9/2/2026 10:47 am]

I dont think insurance premiums decrease for vaccinated

Adam, [9/2/2026 10:47 am]

What if they make it such that medishield premiums goes down if you take it

Adam, [9/2/2026 10:47 am]

Surely people who are vaccinated put less strain on the medical system right?

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 11:00 am]

[ Poll : I am concerned about the rise in measles cases in Singapore. ]

- Strongly Agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly Disagree

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 11:00 am]

[ Poll : I am confident in the Government’s ability to manage the rise in measles cases. ]

- Strongly Agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly Disagree

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 11:18 am]

Dear Contributors,

Please take a moment to participate in our polls and share your opinion. The poll questions are pinned for easy reference and your vote is anonymous. 

We look forward to hearing your thoughts on today’s topic!

💬 What are your thoughts on the measures taken by the Government in light of the rise in measles cases?

Thank you.

Megan 😊

G, [9/2/2026 11:53 am]

Seems like unnecessary fearmongering

It's been the law to vaccinate against measles since 1985. 

 "If our immunity falls coverage falls below 95%.."

This can only happen when people are imported in without immunisation

G, [9/2/2026 11:59 am]

Since it is the law in SG to be immunised against measles, then there needs to be a breakdown on all 11 cases. 

1 tourist 

3 infants (not eligible for jab yet)

Then what about the other 7? What's their background? How come they became infected with measles? 

Such info is necessary to give Singaporeans assurances that they are indeed already protected because of the immunisation that they already received

By withholding critical information, it just gives rise to unnecessary fearmongering

UNLESS, what CDA are trying to say between the lines is that the measles jabs didn't work.. And if that's the case, then what next? Have another national drive to jab more people with jabs that don't work?

G, [9/2/2026 12:53 pm]

Why don't want to say which countries the infected people arrived from?

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 1:36 pm]

🚨This just in: Singapore telcos were the targets of UNC3886 cyber attack last year, but no customer data was stolen and attack was contained

👉 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/unc3886-cyberattack-targets-singapore-telcos-threat-contained-5916906?cid=FBcna&fbclid=IwY2xjawP2QrlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA80MDk5NjI2MjMwODU2MDkAAR4yYIyn5hBdFK3cZDprkNbGwmFnVAJnqdz_BIrCpj3BHCLVrSnPrq_uWrUK3g_aem_nyU1XdfUlKtkzSY8KM48ZQ

Khai Mun L., [9/2/2026 1:49 pm]

Could be medical reasons why some singaporeans not vaccinated, or they bypass the scheduled medical checks or schooling.

E.g. stateless people or very poor families in the past when monitoring was not comphrensive

Khai Mun L., [9/2/2026 1:51 pm]

Fear mongering could go both ways. 

If reported the unvaccinated come from single country, are we stoking fears that everyone from that race/country is a medical risk?

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 2:03 pm]

📢 Topic 📢

G, [9/2/2026 2:24 pm]

If report the country / countries, then concrete actions can be put in place for proper risk mitigation.

If want to be "polite" then it will appear that people's feelings are prioritised over public health

Or you would rather put public health / singaporeans' healths at higher risk over the feelings of a small group of foreigners?

Khai Mun L., [9/2/2026 2:51 pm]

I'm thinking back to covid days, when there were voices to close our borders to certain countries. Are we going to consider this again? And possibly deporting people that already enter singapore?

Wouldn't this also generate fear and chaos? When it's a small portion of people who are unvaccinated

Berry R, [9/2/2026 3:04 pm]

So unsettling given we rely on our phones for so many things like banking to medical appt. Quite relieved that data was not compromised but really cannot take this kind of things for granted cause total network blackout is nightmare! 😨😨😨

Jun Ming, [9/2/2026 3:28 pm]

Fair treat it like covid

Jun Ming, [9/2/2026 3:28 pm]

If not what y'all want to do sia other than this measure

G, [9/2/2026 3:36 pm]

So what is it..? is measles even a disease of concern? Why or why not?

If it is a disease of concern, then promptly put proper risk mitigating measures in place 

If it's not a disease of concern, then why worry and put out this kind of articles that fearmonger?

G, [9/2/2026 3:37 pm]

Article already speculate that there's underlying undetected community transmission. If people don't know who/where/what to avoid, doesn't it further increase transmission risks?

LCL (Danny 心), [9/2/2026 3:56 pm]

1. I feel that our MMR vaccination against measles for the whole population should be a good protection against measles outbreak if we are able to achieve 95% herd immunity.

2. Nevertheless, we should still take precaution by adopting isolation for those that have contracted measles, do contact tracing and adopt the measures similar to Covid to prevent an outbreak as measles is contagious.

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 4:03 pm]

📢 Topic 📢

LCL (Danny 心), [9/2/2026 4:16 pm]

1. As for the UNC3886 cyberattack, firewall is the security device to block unauthorised access. But the APT hacker is able to exploit the zero day vulnerabilities in the firewall software and break through, then the firewall will be render ineffective.

2. The only effective way to stop such skilful APT attack is "Defense in Depth" - and use different brand, type and firewall software - so that when the frontier firewall is breakthrough, the 2nd layer firewall of different brand without similar vulnerability could stop it.

3. Wonder if SIEM is deployed to detect APT cyberattack. Because SIEM - Security Incidents and Events Management is an effective tools to correlate all device logs - security devices, network devices, system devices, apps log to detect anomalies, likely cyberattack and alert administrators and cyber defenders that a likely cyberattack has taken place.

Nicholas, [9/2/2026 4:24 pm]

Observe heavy coughing throughout the public transport system and even in the workplace, believe MOH should look into this. It's quite unusual to see so many people coughing and the cough lasts for weeks. Seems very widespread and infectious. More concerned about this than measles.

Berry R, [9/2/2026 4:32 pm]

I feel like we aren’t talking about this enough… UNC3886 isn’t just any group but cyber espionage. I am relieved that our agencies are taking measures but cannot help wonder what kind of information that group was after and what could have happened if they had managed to carry out their attack successfully??

LCL (Danny 心), [9/2/2026 4:57 pm]

1. APT hackers are usually State sponsor.

2. Usually they hope to achieve more than 1 objective.

3. They could hope to achieve :

a. Mass surveillance of targeted organisations and vital personnel

b. Intelligence gatherings - the activities carried out by the targeted organisations and personnel

c. Spying, data theft - sensitive corporate data, trade secrets, IPR - eg. technology, government defense, economic political etc

d. Establish persistent foothold - to enable persistent breach into the telecom network to gain continuous access to all the critical information infrastructure.

e. Support their geopolitical advantage - to understand our foreign policies, state objectives - so that they can formulate strategies, social media narratives to sway target audiences to support their geopolitical objectives.

4. Note APT hackers - are not necessary carried out by adversaries, it can also be carried out by friendly states or even allies.

G, [9/2/2026 4:58 pm]

Ground softening article to increase political office holders salaries? 😏

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/median-household-income-crosses-12000-mark-for-first-time-in-2025

LCL (Danny 心), [9/2/2026 5:02 pm]

And in the event of wars and confrontation, APT attackers can cripple critical information infrastructure (CII) - by bringing down banking, power, water supply, telecommunications and deny essential services to the population.

LCL (Danny 心), [9/2/2026 5:14 pm]

1. But looking at the news reports, the APT hackers only managed to penetrate the 1st layer of frontier firewall and was detected.

2. This means that the APT hacker only manage to penetrate the DMZ zone and get trapped there before being detected.

3 So harms are limited as DMZ usually don't hold any vital data - in a "Defense in Depth" - as the 2nd layer of security defence has stopped the APT hackers in their track - before our cyber defenders move in to clear their malware and tracks and block them up.

4. Nevertheless, we still need to be vigilant because APT hackers are very persistent, and they will try again.

Berry R, [9/2/2026 5:21 pm]

Yup, your pt 4 is very correct. They will keep trying and look for another zero day. So is just strengthening and building defenses enough? There should be a solid back up plan. Just hope this unc incident stands our cyber agencies in good stead.

LCL (Danny 心), [9/2/2026 5:46 pm]

1. Individual telcos usually have more than 1 set of network infrastructure running in active-active or active-passive mode.

2. It is possible that if a primary set of network infrastructure is brought down, it is possible to switch to the 2nd set.

3. Also different Telcos eg. Singtel and Starhub have their own backbone network infrastructure. 

Eg. Singtel network backbone could be running DWDM.

Starhub network backbone could run SDH or SONET.

4. Critical Organisation CII like power, bank, government, security could run dual infrastructure one leg to Singtel and one leg to Starhub.

5. So if APT hacker compromise Singtel network, CII orgranization could shut off their leg in Singtel while waiting for the cyber defenders to cleanse the APT hackers while running on Starhub leg.

This ensure our CII organisation continuous service without disruption.

6. Effectively, there are 4 backup plans to APT attacks.

2 each per Telcos.

Khai Mun L., [9/2/2026 6:39 pm]

Could be multiple reasons, hard to pin down..

Recently have haze, people returning from winter places and catch a cold there, tourist influx for upcoming cny holidays etc

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 6:45 pm]

Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

G, [9/2/2026 7:01 pm]

How come banks announce this instead of PM 

https://sbr.com.sg/economy/in-focus/singapore-slash-cdc-vouchers-in-budget-2026-analysts

REACH Singapore, [9/2/2026 7:01 pm]

Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

====

REACH (Telegram) 118 -   What are your thoughts on the issues to be discussed in Parliament today? Which issue interests you the most?

(SK)

03 Feb 2026 (10am - 7pm)

REACH (Telegram)

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 10:03 am]

Dear Contributors,

Welcome Back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from 10.15am to 7pm today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind:

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited. 

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment. 

4. No need to repeat your comment or in different forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time. 

5. Let's protect each other's privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://www.reach.gov.sg/Participate/reach-telegram-group/REACH-Telegram-Group-Chat-Terms-of-Use/

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all. 

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies. 

The topic will be posted shortly. 

Thank you. 

Megan 😊

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 10:17 am]

📢 Topic 📢

Parliament will sit today (3 Feb) at 12:00pm. Parliamentary questions will discuss rising rents in historic districts, food safety in school central kitchens, and a new scheme to refund reusable drink containers.

💬 What are your thoughts on the issues to be discussed in Parliament today? Which issue interests you the most?

📌 Rising Rent in Heritage Areas

Jalan Besar GRC MP Denise Phua has asked what measures the Government is taking to moderate rent increases in heritage areas such as Chinatown and Kampong Gelam to support heritage businesses and prevent their displacement.

Questions were also filed on rising rents, asking whether the Government is aware of the “trend of bidding wars and subletting” in the historic district, and what it intends to do about it.

📌 Beverage Container Return Scheme

Five MPs from both sides of the House have also filed questions about a new scheme which will from April 1 allow people to get a 10-cent refund to their ez-link 

cards for returning reusable beverage containers. Under the programme, customers will pay an additional 10 cents in refundable deposit for bottled and canned drinks ranging from 150ml to 3 litres. 

Sembawang West MP Poh Li San has asked how the National Environment Agency will ensure that consumers know where the vending machines under this scheme are placed. She has also asked how it will also make sure that shops do not sell beverages in non-returnable containers at the same price as those in returnable containers. 

MP Kenneth Tiong, who represents Aljunied GRC, has asked what assessment was made of the affordability impact of the scheme on lower-income households before confirming the April 2026 launch, given that it is projected to add 25 cents to 60 cents to the prices of bottled and canned drinks, of which only 10 cents is refundable. 

📌 Central Kitchen Model and Food Safety in Schools

Questions have also been filed about the Education Ministry’s implementation of a central kitchen model for school canteens and its relation to recent cases of gastroenteritis.

Tanjong Pagar GRC MP Rachel Ong has asked if the Government will proactively engage displaced food and beverage operators to mitigate the ongoing shortage of canteen stall operators in schools.

A question was also raised on the 60 cases of gastroenteritis at River Valley Primary School and its link to the food provided under the new central kitchen meal model.

📌 Bill on Coastal Protection

A new Bill on coastal protection Parliament will also be introduced. 

It is introducing new laws on coastal protection that are meant to define the roles and responsibilities of the relevant stakeholders, safeguard land needed for coastal protection measures, and ensure that coastal protection requirements are met and sustained over time.

 📌 Land Transport and Related Matters Bill

Introduced by Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow on Jan 12, the Bill will make it illegal from mid-2026 to keep e-scooters that do not meet fire safety standards, even if they are not used. It will also introduce other measures like a Certificate of Medical Need, which will be required for a person to drive or ride a mobility scooter on public paths; mandatory registration of mobility scooters; and the lowering of the speed limit of personal mobility aids from 10kmh to 6kmh.

All Singapore-registered motor vehicles have to be fitted with an on-board unit to use public roads; there will be heavier penalties for illegally modified vehicles; and missed Electronic Road Pricing charges will be decriminalised.

📌 Other Issues

Other parliamentary questions include inaccurate bus arrival information, the Home Improvement Programme, property tax, the Government’s stance about the US’ claims over Greenland and AI in the workforce.

👉 https://www.parliament.gov.sg/docs/default-source/order-paper/order-paper---3feb2026.pdf

👉  https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/parliament-to-discuss-rising-rents-in-heritage-areas-food-safety-in-school-central-kitchens

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 10:17 am]

👉 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/an-incredibly-difficult-decision-warong-nasi-pariaman-apologises-for-sudden-notice-of-closure

👉  https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/environment/public-can-use-ez-link-card-to-get-10-cent-refund-when-recycling-drink-bottles-cans-from-april

👉  https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/parliament-to-discuss-rising-rents-in-heritage-areas-food-safety-in-school-central-kitchens 

👉  https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/parliament-to-discuss-rising-rents-in-heritage-areas-food-safety-in-school-central-kitchens

👉  https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/new-bill-proposes-stricter-rules-for-mobility-devices-tougher-penalties-for-illegally-altering

----

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 11:00 am]

[ Poll : Which issue(s) are you most interested in for today's Parliament sitting? Share your reasons in the chat! (You may choose more than one option.)

 ]

- Rising Rent in Heritage Areas

- Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS)

- Central Kitchen Model and Food Safety in Schools

- Bill on Coastal Protection

- Land Transport and Related Matters Bill

- Others (Please share your views in the chats below)

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 11:04 am]

E-scooter regulation is fine and all, but how going to enforce?

Especially if keep in house? Can bring charges afterwards when houses burn down, but does not prevent them from keeping inside in the meantime and being a danger to everyone living around them

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 11:06 am]

Dear Contributors,

We want to HEAR MORE from you! 😊

💬 What are your thoughts on the issues to be discussed in Parliament today? Which issue interests you the most?

We have had good feedback from this group, and we hope that we can keep the discussion robust and active! 

Do also share your opinion by participating in our polls! The poll questions are pinned for easy reference, and your vote is anonymous. You can choose more than one option. 

Thank you!

Megan 😊

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 11:18 am]

1. For those owning eScooter or eBike, is there a registry to register their eBike, licence number, owner, address, etc like car ownership kept by LTA?

2. If such eBike registry is mandated, then enforcement of illegal eBike can be effective.

3. Yearly inspection like car inspection will also discourage eBike owners from buying illegal eBike or modify their eBike.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 11:24 am]

4. eBike without licence number will be illegal and cannot go on the road.

Hence no incentive for people to buy illegal non-registered PMD.

Nicholas, [3/2/2026 11:24 am]

E-scooters catching fire, causing residential unit fires and injuries or deaths is of major concern.  I hope the law can be enacted immediately rather than wait till mid-2026. Why is there even a need to delay implementation?

Daniel, [3/2/2026 11:26 am]

Isn't this already the case? I think got number plate.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 11:27 am]

Oh is it?

I didn't notice.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 11:28 am]

Then illegal eBike cannot go on the road - so should be safe for everyone.

Daniel, [3/2/2026 11:29 am]

Only for ebike though, not sure what's the rule for PMA/PMD

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 11:30 am]

Then should also apply to PMD and PMA.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 11:31 am]

Because PMD and PMA illegal ones trigger alot of home fire.

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 12:00 pm]

Dear contributors,

Parliament sitting is now live.

Catch the livestream of today's Parliament sitting here: 

https://www.youtube.com/live/iQ-aeLP8AXo?si=jZ-BVXcK45ATfvcm

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 12:09 pm]

Just saw a PMA, notice that it doesn't come with a licence plate and licence number.

So if PMD and PMA are registered, and only registered one are allowed on the road, then no incentive for people to buy illegal PMD and PMA.

Ginie/Komal ZENDORA J, [3/2/2026 12:14 pm]

Can only buy mobility devices or even scooter from proper shops , with all licences,  maintaining.  Same like we buy car or motorbike.  

Old devices need to go for service check like cars, register. Those caught without confiscated

Ginie/Komal ZENDORA J, [3/2/2026 12:21 pm]

Overcharging drink bottles, then to return is crazy idea. Why must increase to return. 

Now without increasing prices, u ask S'porean return empty bottles GET MONEY,  all sure do that. 

Only is convenience.  Should make those return bins at all supermarkets n hawkercentre.

And not only drink bottles, all kind of  bottles.  So many soap, oil, bottles n tupperware are there.

I collect all n normally give to those who come mthly to collect stuff. Imagine if I could collect 10ct for each of those bottles😁😃

G, [3/2/2026 12:41 pm]

BCRS is a scam

Pay up to 60¢ more for a drink just to get back 10¢..

And it's not as if it's easy to get back the 10¢.

Need to spend your own resources (time + water( to clean the containers

Need to consolidate the containers

Need to find the return machine 

Need to queue up to use the machine

Need to hope and pray the machine is working..

Need to hope and pray the machine is not full and ready to accept the containers

G, [3/2/2026 12:45 pm]

And why need to spend more tax money to start some space agency under MTI??

G, [3/2/2026 12:53 pm]

BCRS stinks of useless virtue signalling..

Unnecessarily increasing cost of living for everyone so that the political leaders can thump their chests and pat each others' backs and congratulate themselves because they did "something for the environment"??

How much carbon is SG even contributing to the environment?

The whole of UK contributes just 1% of global carbon emissions.. for that comparison, SG is estimated to be just a tiny fraction of that 1%

And here, the political leaders are throwing one green washing policy after another, each one costing us higher and higher costs of living.

And for what? A tiny fraction of carbon output. And countries like china spew more and more carbon each year.

Stop killing Singaporeans and unnecessarily increasing the cost of living for miniscule impact on the environment

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 12:55 pm]

I don't agree that with the argument that since bigger polluters not doing anything, we should not do also

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 12:56 pm]

If we don't start doing our small part, how you want to convince others to do theirs.

E.g. everyone else litter, so i should litter too

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 12:57 pm]

The BCRS follows the same logic for plastic bag charges and tray return. 'I already pay taxes so why have to do this' logic is getting old

G, [3/2/2026 1:00 pm]

This narrative is fine as long as cost of living does not unnecessarily increase 

But this narrative is what is currently unnecessarily driving up costs of living

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:00 pm]

Space industry is something new, could lead to more innovation, products or services to sell to others.

Logically, this space not too crowded and quite diverse in a sense. Better than AI where every country is jumping onboard, but hard for sg to make something new.

Physically make sense because equator is shortest distance to outer space for satellite launches

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:01 pm]

But it only impacts when we choose to buy bottled drinks. Just bring your own bottle, top up at tap or water cooler. Then price increase not affect

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:02 pm]

Where you see is every single type of plastic container affected?

G, [3/2/2026 1:02 pm]

Paying for plasti bags is another scam narrative.

It's meant to discourage single use plastics

But the culture in SG is to reuse those plastic bags to bag their trash before throwing down the chute, as all responsible citizens do.. so already in our culture and daily practice, those bags are already not single use

Instead, what we see is people buying plastic trash bags (single use plastics) to bag their trash.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:04 pm]

Source:- Google AI

The satellite business is a highly profitable, high-revenue industry that generated roughly $293 billion in global revenue in 2024, accounting for 71% of the entire global space economy.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:05 pm]

How many bags we used to take for free vs how much used for bagging rubbish? It's not 1 to 1..

Even now, my household still using off the bags we accumulated from before

G, [3/2/2026 1:05 pm]

That's too narrow a view. 

Drink price increases impact everybody, whether you choose to bring your own bottle or not

Companies have to spend more to get the same items. So they will have less money to increase your annual pay, if at all

G, [3/2/2026 1:06 pm]

SG is already in the satellite business. There's no need for extra overhead costs

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:06 pm]

Satellite business is one economic sector that is highly profitable.

My previous company own a satellite business unit.

Win tenders overseas installing hundreds of satellite transmitter and receiver in many islands.

Who say starting a space agency is wasting money?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:06 pm]

Not complete argument though. Then can i say that COE price rise then everyone affected because need transport food， hence should keep price low

G, [3/2/2026 1:07 pm]

Exactly. COE is a tax on everybody. Not just private car owners because everyone needs transportation, whether directly or not.

Your food, your water, all need to be transported by vehicles.. all these costs add up to the price tag you see on the shelf

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:08 pm]

I believe their aim for BCRS is also target those heavy buyers of such drinks. E.g. 'tax' them more

Plus, reduce consumption of unhealthy drinks

G, [3/2/2026 1:08 pm]

You don't have to say it.. Ngiam Tong Dow already said it back in the day

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:09 pm]

Ha, the. I can apply this logic to everywhere.. e.g. need to pay me more so i can spend more and support businesses

G, [3/2/2026 1:09 pm]

There's already a sugar tax to reduce consumption of unhealthy drinks

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:09 pm]

To regulate cars on the road you need transport authority, LTA.

To regulate ships, you need MPA.

To regulate airlines, you need CAAS.

To regulate space satellite, you need a space agency.

Else anyhow shoot satellites in the spaces - create havoc?

365, [3/2/2026 1:09 pm]

Bcrs has its equivalent in multiple EU countries including Germany and Netherlands. No idea when and how they started it, but it has cultivated the culture of returning bottles there. Perhaps can look into what they have done initially regarding cost, and whether it can be applied to us as well. Might have differences as they could possibly have local manufacturing capabilities.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:10 pm]

What sugar tax? Singapore has no such tax

G, [3/2/2026 1:11 pm]

Ok sure

G, [3/2/2026 1:12 pm]

That assumption only works if SG is the ONLY space agency in the world and other countries need to listen to SG

G, [3/2/2026 1:14 pm]

To regulate roads, yes got LTA. Because the roads they are allowed regulate is only in SG

To regulate ships, yes, because SG has territorial waters

To regulate airspace, yes, because SG has territorial airspace

To regulate satellite space?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:16 pm]

Satellite got quite a number of usage.

1. Redundant comm & internet links if submarine cables are cut.

2. Cannot rely on US GPS or Baidu - because in war time, they could stop feed us with GPS or satellite image.

3. Previously, US switch off the satellite to China when China fire missiles around Taiwan - the missiles all miss their targets.

4. Also we can sell satellite services to our neighbours to earn income - eg. Earth Observation satellite can capture typhoon, rain, cloud, haze cause by forest fires.

5. Singapore is both a global maritime hub and aviation hub, so we need our satellite to track and feed data to global shippers and airlines.

6. Satellite can also capture oil spills - so that our government can quickly send emergency team to stop the spread of oil spills.

7. Satellite can also monitor any troop concentration that is hostile to us.

8. Can also use for search and rescue operations.

9. Also all our foreign missions and embassy can use our satellite for internet and intranet connectivity.

10. Confidential data won't be leaked as it becomes our private network.

11. Else foreign missions got to use foreign telecom infrastructure - data can be pilfer, man-in-the-middle attack, and rely solely on encryption to protect transmitted data.

12. Encryption can be broken using quantum computing.

G, [3/2/2026 1:17 pm]

Yes, explains why satellites are important but doesn't explain why need a regulatory body paid for by taxpayers

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:18 pm]

So allow all tom, dick and Harry to shoot their satellite and collide with one another?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:18 pm]

I believe that sg space agency not only cater for satellite, but other aspects of space industry

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:19 pm]

Also satellite are national security assets - that need to be coordinated and govern.

Not 5 cents 10 cents thing.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:19 pm]

Yes.

More than satellite - it also cover security.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:19 pm]

Could be anything related to space, nuclear reactor, oil for rockets, spacesuits etc

G, [3/2/2026 1:19 pm]

😂 into SG's ultra tiny space in outer space? (Assuming we even have territorial space in outer space)

SG doesn't even have facilities to launch satellites

Why should country X launching their satellite from country Y need to listen to what SG space agency had to say?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:20 pm]

That's why, it only mention commercial usage - but the rest in mum...

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:20 pm]

We could build one in the future?

Already considering to have nuclear reactor which was impossible decades ago

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:21 pm]

Haiyah - you leave national security to the government lah..

And forget about 5 cents and 10 cents stuff.

G, [3/2/2026 1:22 pm]

Security then under mindef lor. Why under MTI?

365, [3/2/2026 1:22 pm]

E-bike and pmd/pma really need stricter enforcement. Invest more effort and manpower upfront, reduce the incentives to break the laws, and then can gradually relax the manpower once it's in a more stable state.

For now, actively look for those unregistered e-bikes and pma/pmd. Any unregistered ones impound + fine. Repeat offenders increase fines + potentially jail time.

Even for registered ones, can stop to check for speed limiters. Same punishment as above if you don't have speed limiter or have a non-compliant one, but maybe the fine amount can be lesser or just have warning for 1st time. Required to report to an LTA certified workshop to check if the limiter is installed within X amount of days, or can install the limiter directly with said certified workshops.

Actively look for workshops performing illegal modifications, either incentivise those caught with a lesser punishment to spill the beans, or go undercover and ask for illegal modifications from suspected workshops. 

Any workshop providing illegal modification, impound their workshop and strip them of their business license.

G, [3/2/2026 1:22 pm]

Then have a nuclear agency, why need space agency?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:22 pm]

Very sad.

You can't read in between the lines.

Very obvious you are not suitable to be involved in security stuff.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:32 pm]

I'm curious on a scenario.

If fire break out next door due to unlicensed pma, can i claim damages from the owner of the pma?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 1:34 pm]

I recall read news on fire breakout, then claim life of the uncle's financee, the young chap just apologied and claim it was a young rash mistake

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:43 pm]

In future, when everything is sensors and network:-

1. F35 sensor, digital, network 

2. Drone swarm - GPS, camera, sensor guided

3. Armour vehicles - network, sensor, digital 

4. Combat manned system - sensors, network 

5. Robots - sensors, network

6. Marine, drones and combat ships - sensor and network.

Owning and controlling our own satellites will be vital to network up all the assets - to give us the vital edge to win war.

No space agency to co-ordinate - must be crazy.

Adam, [3/2/2026 1:45 pm]

So you saying we need to weaponise space?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:46 pm]

Network, connectivity, communication not weaponized.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:52 pm]

"Can GDP grow while jobs disappear?

Economists weigh in on what Singapore's AI push must get right.

Good jobs in an AI-rich economy will come not from asking how much labour can be removed, but from identifying which tasks still benefit from human judgment, says one economist."

 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/economic-strategy-review-gdp-growth-jobs-ai-5901231#:~:text=Can%20GDP%20grow,says%20one%20economist.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 1:53 pm]

This is the topic that is worth discussing.

Agentic AI - that can independently set goals, plan, and execute multi-step tasks to achieve objectives with minimal human oversight.

This will be a threat to human jobs.

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 2:00 pm]

📢 Topic 📢

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:00 pm]

Because Agentic AI is more autonomous than Generative AI LLM.

Humans need to find our niches in which Agentic AI cannot do.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 2:05 pm]

Blue collar jobs then?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 2:05 pm]

Plumbers, electrician, car repair

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:06 pm]

Actually quite sad.

Need to brainstorm how to protect the white collar jobs.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:07 pm]

Prof Loh said that AI and automation can now perform tasks at levels comparable to humans, which is a negating factor for job growth.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:09 pm]

HUMAN-AI COLLABORATION

Despite its impact on job creation, economists agreed that AI cannot fully replace humans.

Prof Powdthavee noted that while AI excels at some tasks, it still makes mistakes and can be biased in ways that are not always obvious.

“The more sensible use of AI is not to replace people, but to work with them. The biggest gains come from human-AI augmentation,” he said.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:11 pm]

Good jobs in an AI-rich economy will come not from asking how much labour can be removed from a process, but from asking which tasks still benefit from human judgment, accountability and interaction, he said.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:12 pm]

Roles should then be designed around those tasks, he added.

“That requires deliberate choices. It also requires resisting the short-term temptation to use AI purely as a cost-cutting tool.”

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:14 pm]

So now the issue is, what are those tasks.

Need to brainstorm on this.

So that IHLs, training institute, business can train white collar workers in these tasks - and ensure people are gainfully employed.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:26 pm]

[01/02, 8:26 am] Close friend comments: Zuckerberg Says AI Is Letting One Employee Do the Work of Entire Teams - Business Insider

https://share.google/cJvT3pE3i5Yg4NiN9

[01/02, 8:27 am] Close friend comments: It's this type of belief.

[01/02, 2:06 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: Look like if all CEOs go by this belief, then large unemployment will follow.

I don't know what government of the day can do to ensure everyone got a job.

Coming to the crunch, even if companies are highly productive, large consumer base with income to buy their goods also vanished.

CEOs will stuck with high volume of goods but not enough buyers.

It will backfire on them.

Worst the whole society without jobs and income could turn riot and burn down the CEO business.

In the end, all lose.

[01/02, 2:25 pm] Close friend comments: No creativity anymore. It'll just harness old and existing wisdom. AI not real intelligence

[01/02, 2:27 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: Hmm...

That's why government, business and our workers must try to find a way to do work that cannot be done by AI.

Critical thinking, vision, creativity, communication, collaboration, creative problem solving, counselling, mentoring, consultants etc.

Need to find our niches when letting AI settle down.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:31 pm]

[01/02, 8:12 pm] Close friend comments: Early 2000, .com burst because it didn't deliver the $ as hyped. AI will also go thru that cycle.

[01/02, 8:13 pm] Close friend comments: There are real possibilities ,yet unrealistic ones

[01/02, 8:13 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: I think AI increasingly likely to become computer and internet - that is pervasively adopted by all industrial sectors.

[01/02, 8:14 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: That's why this AI disruptor trigger alot of anxiety among our workers and global workforce.

[01/02, 8:14 pm] Close friend comments: It will become pervasive but not way CEOs are currently slashing workforce

[01/02, 8:17 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: Hmm...

I think all these CEOs - especially US ones put Greed as their main motivation - and willing to overlook social consequences that will backfire on them.

They make themselves rich first and don't care less - let government to solve the social problems.

Thus government need to be wise to arrest such spiral downward early before a full blown unrest sets in.

[01/02, 8:18 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: Though I agree that AI investment has gone into a crazy proposition - in which revenue are unlikely to recover the investment and cost sunk in.

[01/02, 8:21 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: Either scenario:-

1. Pervasively adopted like internet 

2. Unable to recover AI investment 

- will be bad for the world as a whole - as the economic consequences and social consequences will be humongous if there are no soft landings in sight.

G, [3/2/2026 2:38 pm]

Aren't these already being taken care of by mindef?

Or are you saying mindef don't know what they are doing?

G, [3/2/2026 2:41 pm]

Then the political office holders compensation framework needs to be tweaked. Much mess emphasis on GDP, more emphasis on jobs and job quality

G, [3/2/2026 2:43 pm]

You should visit some army/air force / SAF / Mindef in the heartlands road shows etc

Lagi now got DIS, the new fourth service...

Mindef already taking care of such things

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 2:59 pm]

U.S., EU, and China all possess major, distinct space agencies: NASA (USA), ESA (Europe), and CNSA (China). These organizations drive global exploration, with 2026 seeing continued rivalry and cooperation, including joint European-Chinese missions (SMILE) and, in the case of ESA, collaboration with the US on returning Mars samples. 

USA (NASA): The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is the primary U.S. civil space agency.

EU (ESA): The European Space Agency is an intergovernmental organization with over 20 member states, focusing on scientific and, with EUSPA, operational/industrial, space goals.

China (CNSA): The China National Space Administration handles civil space programs and international cooperation. 

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:01 pm]

It is precisely more commercial satellites are being shoot into spaces and compete with military satellite that you need a space agency to co-ordinate.

All developed countries that have satellite set up space agency.

Mindef is military, not a space agency.

G, [3/2/2026 3:02 pm]

How many satellites are there currently in space? What does your AI say?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:03 pm]

Don't know.

Ask the space agency.

G, [3/2/2026 3:04 pm]

Ask your AI?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:04 pm]

You don't know how to use AI?

G, [3/2/2026 3:05 pm]

I don't know if you will agree / accept what AI I use. So let's use your AI

Nicholas, [3/2/2026 3:08 pm]

AI will increase productivity of workers, means more valuable to bosses, means more business growth with same number of workers. Hopefully the bosses can view it this way.

G, [3/2/2026 3:08 pm]

There are approximately 15,000 satellites in space now. And over 28,000 catalogued space debris. 

Out of this, only 15 satellites are from Singapore

So are you saying with 15 out of 15,000 + 28,000 things in orbit now, we need to spend even more taxpayer money, to start a new stat board / govt agency with all the expensive CEO etc overheads to kacau kacau the US, EU, China etc to regulate their space debris also?

G, [3/2/2026 3:09 pm]

And 60% of the 15,000 satellites now belong to Elon Musk's starlink.. Spend tax payers money to regulate him ah?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:13 pm]

If not you tell LTA to regulate lor.

If not tell Mindef to regulate lor instead of doing defence. Run commercial business lor.

G, [3/2/2026 3:23 pm]

Why is there even a need for SG to regulate?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:27 pm]

Currently, 70 space companies and 2,000 professionals operate in the sector here, engaging in a range of activities from designing and making space parts to providing satellite-based services.

Singapore began its foray into space technology more than 50 years ago.

It established its first ground station in 1971, and launched its first communications satellite in 1998 and its first locally built satellite in 2011.

The Government, industry and academia have launched more than 30 satellites over the past 20 years.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:30 pm]

Singapore will form a National Space Agency on April 1 to grow its space economy capabilities, with Ngiam Le Na as chief executive.

NSAS will use satellite imagery and geospatial data for needs like urban planning and environmental monitoring, developing space situational understanding.

The Government has invested over $200 million in space R&D and aims to expand international partnerships and legislation for space safety.

G, [3/2/2026 3:30 pm]

Is that your AI's comments?

Still does not answer the question of why is there even a need for SG to regulate. 

They were doing fine without a regulatory body for 50 years.

G, [3/2/2026 3:30 pm]

This is already being carried out BEFORE NSAS. Why need NSAS?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:30 pm]

For information only.

Not responding to you.

You can go ask Minister directly.

He will answer you.

G, [3/2/2026 3:31 pm]

Aren't you the de facto govt rep here 😉?

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:32 pm]

Huh?  Since when I am the government rep?

G, [3/2/2026 3:33 pm]

😂

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:39 pm]

You can try asking government what's the threshold for creating a new ministry.

There's also a balance between general addon to existing agency or want to branch out to specialise in another sector.

G, [3/2/2026 3:39 pm]

The AI I use tell me typical stat board CEO salary in SG is around $22,700 / month or $272,400 / year. And that's just the CEO, haven't count all the deputy CEOs, directors, assistant director etc etc etc.. 

Still need to rent office space for this lot,

equip them with IT stuff like laptops, tablets, 

need to have IT dept to support that 

need HR to make sure this lot get paid correctly on time

need to pay utilities like electricity and water and internet (starlink 😏?)

That's a lot of recurring overheads. 

To regulate space? To regulate satellites? 

Of which SG only has 15 right now in orbit, out of 15,000 satellites + 28,000 space debris

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:40 pm]

Why keep focusing on the satellites, as we mentioned there are more aspects to space industry...

G, [3/2/2026 3:41 pm]

The de facto govt rep was explaining the need for space agency using the need to regulate satellites ma

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:41 pm]

Then it's to create standards and regulations for future usage

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:42 pm]

Then can i quote someone with another view as de facto opposition rep?

G, [3/2/2026 3:43 pm]

No need to reinvent the wheel. When existing standards are good and available and already sent literally tens of thousand of satellites into space, just use existing standards

Like the oil industry.. SG manly use API / ISO standards

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:43 pm]

Look and think widely for long term

G, [3/2/2026 3:44 pm]

Yes, the long term concern is primarily cost of living, which impacts TFR

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:44 pm]

Did you know that SG does create new standards for air space ,shipping, even regional power lines.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:45 pm]

Not all existing 'global' standard can be applied wholesale. Even cyber security or normal tech development workflows got different standards

G, [3/2/2026 3:45 pm]

Yes, that's when we know for sure that existing standards are not good enough.. Then yes, I support.

But when we only launched (according to the govt rep, 30 satellites in 20 years), who are we to say our standards are better than existing ones and we need to further develop our standards?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:46 pm]

Then on flip side, who are we to say that our new standards won6be better than existing ones?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:47 pm]

Maybe is global would follow our standards in future?

G, [3/2/2026 3:47 pm]

Even so if we really need to develop our own SG standards, do we need a whole new stat board / agency for it? With all that overhead costs?

Why not just a new dept in existing set ups? Like active mobility unit in LTA?

G, [3/2/2026 3:48 pm]

That's a really arrogant comment, but a good kind of arrogance that strives for greatness

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:48 pm]

Likely not enough resources, or specialized skillset in existing agency. Hence need new one

G, [3/2/2026 3:48 pm]

This kind I can say, we are top notch for airspace control. 

SG airspace so tight. Yet so much air traffic. Still need to balance with military air craft

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:48 pm]

How many ppl got study space engineering or the legal issues for space

Adam, [3/2/2026 3:49 pm]

https://xkcd.com/927/

G, [3/2/2026 3:49 pm]

Oxymoron leh, not enough resource, yet can splash the cash on a new stat board / agency

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:50 pm]

'resources' i meant in generic terms of space, people etc. not specifically only money

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:51 pm]

If want to purely save cost, then dissolve parliament. Why need so much minister and opposition, pay one emperor can already

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:52 pm]

Our population size so small compared to russia and china, no need government la

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 3:52 pm]

Am speaking rhetorical if no one understood

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 3:55 pm]

👏

G, [3/2/2026 3:56 pm]

Exactly. Why need more and more and more MPs with each election?

G, [3/2/2026 3:58 pm]

Still no compelling reason to start a new stat board / agency with expensive recurring overheads

G, [3/2/2026 3:59 pm]

We have been in an inflationary period for so many years. People tightening belts to get by everyday. 

SPEND WITHIN YOUR MEANS is the common mantra, some of which echoed by some here, some of which echoed at govt level..

Then we see this govt spending like no problem leh, on pet projects that don't improve the lives of everyday folk.. 

Cannot fund the spending? No problem, just increase tax

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 4:00 pm]

📢 Topic 📢

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:01 pm]

Then let's cut all the benefits given out. Recall all cdc vouchers etc. cut cost then.

Heck, let's kick out all the senior citizens, don't have to give them cpf

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:03 pm]

Give up ourselves to china or malaysia, don't need create government. Just follow their rule of law and currency, make ringgit 1 to 1.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 4:04 pm]

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSagENvkr/

Singapore is an exceptional Country - very well govern.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:04 pm]

No need go university, primary school can liao. Still school and education ma..

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 4:05 pm]

This American economist and analyst has high praise for Singapore governance - arguably the best in the World.

Same comments by many China's economists and analysts.

It is precisely what our government vision, foresight and well planning that put all of us ahead and in a good stead.

Not looking at short term 5 cents 10 cents stuff.

Majority of our population trust what the government is doing will be good for us now and in future.

And many countries are learning from us.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:21 pm]

Moderator should have posted the space agency link:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/national-space-agency-singapore-technology-legislation-5899941

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 4:21 pm]

Government needs to work closely with business boss and union workers - to ensure that with the proliferation of AI corresponding high value jobs are created hand in hand.

I think Singapore being a small country is able to do so - something that we do for Progressive Work Model - industry by industry.

This time is for AI.

By doing so, we will not have a situation like US, whereby CEOs mass fire workers, and then discover the AI hallucinate and run wild - got to desperately recruit back to patch up the AI work.

I think all the more important - revisiting ITM (Industry Transformation Map) - industry by industry - this time focusing on AI as disruptor vis-a-vis transformed jobs become very critical.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:23 pm]

Finally managed to read the actual article. 

The space agency is not a brand new team, already exist under economic development board (why of all places, dunno). Now just consolidate and rebrand itself on its own agency

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 4:24 pm]

Space agency got to accommodate commercial + military.

That's why is put under economic.

If put under military - no foreigners want to work with us.

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:24 pm]

Likely separate out because the industry has growth big enough to justify the additonal budget needed

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 4:25 pm]

In case you missed it, here are some updates from the parliamentary proceedings so far:

- S’pore to fully switch to new ERP system from Jan 2027: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/spore-to-fully-switch-to-new-erp-system-on-jan-1-2027-new-bill-to-make-on-board-unit-compulsory?ref=top-stories

- On use of partial NRIC numbers: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/public-sector-to-use-full-nric-numbers-or-nothing-partial-nric-numbers-not-reliable-for?ref=top-stories

- On the Coastal Protection Bill: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/rising-sea-levels-coastal-protection-bill-parliament-5900336?cid=internal_sharetool_iphone_03022026_cna

- On the Beverage Container Return Scheme: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/beverage-container-return-scheme-costs-consumers-10-cents-5902836?cid=internal_sharetool_iphone_03022026_cna

- On Central Kitchen Model for schools:

www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/school-canteen-central-kitchen-model-moe-parliament-5903076?cid=internal_sharetool_iphone_03022026_cna

G, [3/2/2026 4:28 pm]

Exactly. If don't tax people more, than there will be lower cost of living then don't even need CDC

But then, what can the govt do to show that they care? By giving out CDC vouchers, can boast and say, "we care for you, here's some vouchers"

But if they work very hard to keep costs of living low, how to boast during election time?

G, [3/2/2026 4:29 pm]

You can say that about 1G PAP, difficult to say the same for the current lot

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 4:29 pm]

Singapore current GDP per capita PPP is the highest in the world.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 4:30 pm]

Source :- Google AI

Singapore is ranked as having one of the highest GDP per capita (PPP) in the world, with 2025 estimates placing it at the top globally at approximately US$156,000–US$156,760. This high ranking reflects strong economic productivity, a strategic role as a financial hub, and high living standards, often surpassing nations like Luxembourg, Qatar, and Macau. 

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 4:31 pm]

This are hardcore facts.

Not I think you think.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 4:33 pm]

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSamhTjnU/

Singapore global rankings in the world 2025 (not 1965).

G, [3/2/2026 4:37 pm]

A rebrand that adds on unnecessary recurring expensive overheads.. 

This trend of rebranding using merely consolidation (e.g. recently the CDA) without offering new game changing capabilities is a waste of taxpayer money by introducing expensive recurring overheads

Now a good example of new game changing capability is this: SAF's DIS. They offer new capabilities that SG did not yet possess. This kind we need to support and should support.

Regrouping existing capabilities / functions, then putting a new head honcho with his supporting crew there.. nothing new leh, just add on expensive recurring overheads. Straining the budget. Not spending within the means

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 4:39 pm]

I don't object on returning bottles but with condition.

1.) it should not be amplify and transfer cost to consumers. Either gov or manufacturer should bear the cost so more innovative idea from their side will come out. 

2.) convenient. 

3.) package policy such as allowing people to bring their bottle to collect coke and other drinks and to reuse the bottle

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 4:39 pm]

If these 3 conditions cannot be met it should not be putting the policy in the first place

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 4:40 pm]

If not it will just burden the cost of living

G, [3/2/2026 4:41 pm]

"“Building on this foundation, the agency will engage our space ecosystem on plans for national space legislation,” he said."

Why is there a need for national space legislation???

Want to make into law, means need to come up with new capabilities to enforce the law, means need to spend more taxpayer money😒

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/national-space-agency-singapore-technology-legislation-5899941

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 4:42 pm]

Logic of using plastic bag . We got the option to bring our own plastic bag. But is there option to bring our own bottle?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:47 pm]

Don't understand, isn't your comparison the same reasoning to be applied to the new agency too?

G, [3/2/2026 4:48 pm]

I don't understand your don't understand

G, [3/2/2026 4:50 pm]

DIS is not a mere consolidation. It's introduction of new capabilities that the army navy rsaf didn't possess

CDA, NSAS aren't offering any new capabilities. They are just regrouped existing capabilities, but now add on expensive recurring overheads where previously there was none

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:51 pm]

Hmm, even if charge manufacturers high cost for using bottle, consumers would still continue to buy and anyhow throw away the bottles without recycling.

Forcing it via government would allow collection points to be built islandwide and consolidate across different drink brands

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:52 pm]

I would argue that DIS could have already existed beforehand. We had CSA and mindef IT department to handle such cyber security things

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 4:54 pm]

I mean the 10cent return is ok but not to amplify the cost to consumers. So after the rule is enforce I should only see a maximum price increase of 10cent not any other value increase

G, [3/2/2026 4:54 pm]

CSA and mindef IT dept are still existing. Means DIS is offering way more than what CSA and mindef IT can

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:54 pm]

Most times is because these teams' workload get too much or need cross-department work that better to consolidate and come on it's own.

There can be views for both consolidate and spiltting up

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 4:55 pm]

Then would you say should close these past agencies down? Since DIS already doing their job?

G, [3/2/2026 4:55 pm]

Is DIS doing CSA's job?

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 4:56 pm]

Companies will eventually even out their profit in the packaging as repackaging should be just a one time investment

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 4:57 pm]

That's why I find it ridiculous to increase to 0.60 as I can buy a Dasani water with that price currently

G, [3/2/2026 4:58 pm]

Same experience as people preaching "gst increase from 8% to 9% only what". 

But ignore that kopi o kosong price went up from $1 to $1.20.. a 20% increase

G, [3/2/2026 4:59 pm]

Then the typical response to that would be "then you drink coffee at home lor! Or you drink less coffee la!"

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:00 pm]

Anyway I don't drink a lot of bottle drink unless I forget to bring water bottle

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:01 pm]

To add on maybe can put water cooler in front of supermarket

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:01 pm]

So people can reduce the bottle usage

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:02 pm]

Remember reduce reuse recycle. Recycle should always to be the last step

G, [3/2/2026 5:03 pm]

I mean.. This is the typical "tighten your belt" response when people give negative feedback on price increases, and the reason for these prices increases

But then we see this govt, instead of tightening their belts and spending within their means, they are spending frivolously on expensive recurring overheads..

And increase tax on us to fund such frivolous spending, driving up cost of living for all of us

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:04 pm]

For central kitchen maybe we can make it onsite kitchen in school where big vendor cook in school and sell

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:06 pm]

So they will cook for breakfast and lunch for students to buy in their school

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:07 pm]

Or buffet style central kitchen instead of pack food

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:08 pm]

In camps right it's not really central kitchen but onsite kitchen for our army guys

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:11 pm]

Maybe like ah meng restaurant type where one stall sell all the food

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 5:12 pm]

Kind of true. But have spilt into 2-halal and non-halal section?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 5:13 pm]

Oh, like those American school canteen type.. hmm, good idea

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 5:14 pm]

But would it be lack of choice?

I dunno how the current school central kitchen works. Do students get a choice of menu?

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:18 pm]

I think they can make it like cai fan and zi char for the whole school

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:20 pm]

If primary and secondary school are close together they can merge canteen

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 5:22 pm]

Distance would be too far for children regardless. Plus building walkway shelters would be tedious

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:23 pm]

Hmm maybe one onsite kitchen serve 2 schools

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:24 pm]

Like cai fan the chef can split into 2 sets

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:33 pm]

For space agency can they come up a better name sound like nasa

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:36 pm]

Rename to Singapore space agency (SSA) also not that bad

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:40 pm]

Can gov when introduce new things try to avoid common acro name or look like name. Like simi is saf. Singapore armed forces or Singapore aviation fuel

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 5:48 pm]

SSA got many similar acronyms.

Singapore Shipping Association.

Singapore Standard on Auditing.

SSA Academy

SSA culinary institute.

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:49 pm]

Hmm but just don't make it look like nasa lah

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:50 pm]

Singapore space research agency (ssra)

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 5:51 pm]

But these satellite not for research.

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:54 pm]

It can be use in research what

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:55 pm]

NSAS will use satellite imagery and geospatial data for needs like urban planning and environmental monitoring, developing space situational understanding.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 5:55 pm]

More than that.

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:55 pm]

These data are collected for research and development

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:58 pm]

So it's just collect data and send data to other agency and institute. Where other agency and institute will do research and policy crafting

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 5:59 pm]

I guess it's just a data collection point

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 6:00 pm]

📢 Topic 📢

여자친구, 첫사랑 🏆, [3/2/2026 6:01 pm]

Regarding the bottle machine: main thing is can they clear fast enough or not, how many machines across the island can they work fast enough to clear them all or not. Because of yall know the FairPrice trial the last round it was perhaps, too well received.

여자친구, 첫사랑 🏆, [3/2/2026 6:02 pm]

People queue and queue with mountains of bottles to get the vouchers. I'm worried the same thing will happen this time also.

G, [3/2/2026 6:03 pm]

For satellite imagery, how is that a game changer vs existing GIS systems that URA already use for urban planning for decades? GIS already incorporates satellite data

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:04 pm]

And the collection and clearing of the recycle machines.

see the clothes recycle bins, super quick to be full when close to spring cleaning

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 6:14 pm]

NSAS will develop national legislation and regulations for the space sector. It aims to be pro-innovation and pro-business, while meeting high standards for space safety and sustainability, Dr Tan said.

He said the new agency will expand on the existing functions of the Economic Development Board’s Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn), to build “world-class space R&D capabilities, develop a thriving space industry and advance international partnerships”.

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 6:15 pm]

Money mining in space sector

G, [3/2/2026 6:17 pm]

Yes, but now come these can't be achieved in the current office set up?

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 6:19 pm]

Don't think so .how to build world class space r&d capabilities without this new agency

G, [3/2/2026 6:20 pm]

The main difference in offering I can see from the CNA article is NSAS want to introduce legislation.. and typically, offices within stat boards don't do that

So that begs the question: why need to introduce legislation?

G, [3/2/2026 6:21 pm]

Then start some GLC lor. Or subsumed the R&D under A star

G, [3/2/2026 6:22 pm]

Most of the space R&D are being done at our universities already anyway

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:23 pm]

You're not reading the full text.

The stated aim is to r&d, sell, then business it out. Plus share data with other agencies.

None of the other organizations can do all of this within their team.

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 6:24 pm]

1.) legislation (idk about it)

2.) innovation and business 

( My understanding is to attract Elon mask to Singapore)

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:24 pm]

Mindef, do defense and confidental data. EDB do business and legal, not technically enough. University, pure r&d, not good selling and they are education purpose

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:26 pm]

You want cut cost but have red tape and inefficiency in process, sure, all go prime minister office.

Traffic fine, travel visa, go apply there. Wait for your turn a few years down the road for approval

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:27 pm]

I already find our polyclinic and legal courts too slow and cumbersome already..

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 6:28 pm]

So actually this is a more cost saving deal as if you want to do everything in different agency you need multiple building office and facility. And sending data and people moving around cost time and money

Jun Ming, [3/2/2026 6:28 pm]

Now it's just one building

G, [3/2/2026 6:32 pm]

Still doesn't answer the question of how come need an agency set up and the current office set up does not suffice

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:35 pm]

The current office is EDB.. you know what the agency does?

Vs what they want this new agency to do?

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:36 pm]

It's like asking Traffic Police to go sell cars, since they deal with vehicles all the time anyway

G, [3/2/2026 6:36 pm]

This is what the current office is already doing. Not much different from what the minister say NSAS wants to do

https://www.space.gov.sg/about-us/visionandmission/

Nicholas, [3/2/2026 6:38 pm]

On the central kitchen model for schools, the vendors need to take effort to do it well. It should be better and safer, not worse and riskier. The price also seems higher than what secondary students usually pay for recess food. If it's not done well in the few schools piloting it, please don't roll it out to more schools. The current food vendors at each store are serving nutritious food with a smile and at better prices.

G, [3/2/2026 6:40 pm]

Want to innovate and business it out, then work closer with EnterpriseSG since that's their mandate

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:41 pm]

I think you might be confusing the 'agency' in the name as a new ministry.. it's not.

From what i see from that website you found,

The Government will set up the National Space Agency of Singapore (NSAS) from 1 April 2026. NSAS will be established under the aegis of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI)

G, [3/2/2026 6:41 pm]

Or even better.. why not just transfer the office from EDB to EnterpriseSG since both under MTI anyway

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 6:42 pm]

Before the National Computer Board (NCB) was established in 1981, Singapore’s computerisation efforts were decentralized and largely driven by individual government ministries, with a notable lack of central coordination. 

Key aspects of this pre-NCB period (primarily the 1960s and 1970s) included:

Ministry of Finance (MOF): The first government computer was installed at the Ministry of Finance, which served as a central hub for early computational needs.

Central Provident Fund Board (CPFB): In 1963, the CPFB installed the first mainframe computer to automate manual ledger accounting.

Fragmented Approach: Government ministries operated independently, using separate computer systems, often leading to a "huge backlog" of work and fragmented data, as noted by Dr. Tony Tan, who later chaired the Committee on National Computerisation (CNC) to address this.

Individual Statutory Boards: Organizations like the Nanyang University's computer center were early adopters, but there was no overarching national strategy until the 1980s. 

Formation of the NCB

Following a 1980 study, the Committee on National Computerisation (CNC) was formed to address these deficiencies. This led to the creation of the National Computer Board (NCB) on September 1, 1981, to spearhead the computerisation of the Civil Service, develop IT manpower, and promote the computer services industry. 

Khai Mun L., [3/2/2026 6:42 pm]

It's basically just a re-organization.. it might not lead to more costs

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 6:42 pm]

Similar to space agency.

Satellite is found everywhere.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 6:43 pm]

In 2024, Singapore's digital economy (DE) reached S$128.1 billion, contributing 18.6% to the nation's GDP, up from 18.0% in 2023.

G, [3/2/2026 6:44 pm]

It does. An office doesn't have its own finance, HR, IT dept etc. 

Agencies have. Agencies have a lot more governance rules to follow compared to offices within stat boards. Agencies are comparable to stat boards

Agencies also need to submit their annual budgets

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 6:44 pm]

The formation of NCB - iDA - Govtech lead to $128.1 billion economy.

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 6:45 pm]

The projected space technology business will have similar trajectory.

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 6:46 pm]

Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

LCL (Danny 心), [3/2/2026 6:46 pm]

Singapore government has very far vision.

Not 10 cents 5 cents cheap skate stuff.

G, [3/2/2026 6:51 pm]

Yes, but still doesn't explain why need to have a full fledged agency compared to current office set up

REACH Singapore, [3/2/2026 7:00 pm]

Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

====

REACH (Telegram) 117 -   What are your views on the recommendations from the Economic Strategy Review? What more can be done to ensure that the Singapore economy remains competitive?

(SK)

30 Jan 2026 (10am - 7pm)

REACH (Telegram)

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 3:02 pm]

Dear Contributors,

Welcome Back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from 3.15pm to 8pm today. ⏰

House Rules (short version of our Terms of Use) to keep in mind:

1. Be kind and respectful. We all want to be in a safe space to share our views. 

2. Any and all threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content is prohibited. 

3. Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment. 

4. No need to repeat your comment or in different forms (including caps) - we heard you loud and clear the first time. 

5. Let's protect each other's privacy and keep contact details in this group what it should always be - confidential. 

Full set of Terms of Use: https://www.reach.gov.sg/Participate/reach-telegram-group/REACH-Telegram-Group-Chat-Terms-of-Use/

We will strive to uphold these rules to ensure this is a safe space for all. 

Please be assured that the points made by participants during the chat are aggregated and shared with relevant agencies. 

The topic will be posted shortly. 

Thank you. 

Megan 😊

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 3:16 pm]

📢 Topic 📢

On Friday (30 Jan), the Economic Strategy Review (ESR) provided seven key recommendations for Singapore's economy and the labour market. 

The recommendations are developed after consulting with businesses and workers over 60 engagements, events, and company visits.

💬 What are your views on the recommendations from the Economic Strategy Review? What more can be done to ensure that the Singapore economy remains competitive?

📌 Background of ESR

The ESR was unveiled by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong in August 2025 to chart a forward-looking blueprint to secure quality opportunities for Singapore’s businesses and workers. The ESR reports to the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce (SERT), which was set up in April 2025 to help businesses and workers navigate immediate uncertainties arising from the US tariffs. 

The ESR consists of five different committees, each focusing on different aspect of Singapore's economy.

These recommendations are part of a mid-term update by the ESR, and the full report with final recommendations will be published in mid-2026

One of the key recommendations was that Singapore should establish itself as a global artificial intelligence leader and push for AI adoption across its economy. The review also emphasised that Singapore should also evolve its skills and training systems to make lifelong learning a practical reality for workers.

📌 Recommendations on the economy

Four recommendations focus on driving Singapore's economic growth. The ESR noted that AI will revolutionise economies and industries, saying Singapore must stay ahead to harness its transformative power and put the country on a different growth trajectory.

“We should do more to position Singapore as a location of choice where companies and top talent come together to develop, test, deploy and scale innovative and impactful AI solutions,” the ESR committees said in a media factsheet.

Beyond AI, Singapore should also strengthen its position in manufacturing sectors where it already has a foothold, such as semiconductors, healthcare and specialty chemicals.

National research and development resources should be deployed to secure global leadership in high-value sectors, capitalising on Singapore's trusted reputation, the ESR committees said.

📌 Recommendation on the labour market

The ESR also added that workers should be more proactive in acquiring skills, career planning and entrepreneurial in seizing new opportunities.

“We should evolve our skills and training models, to enable training to be agile and responsive to worker and industry needs, and for Singaporeans to upskill and reskill throughout their careers,” the ESR committees said.

This will require more flexible pathways blending training and work, a national AI workforce strategy, a more nimble career and skills system, and a review of how government support is organised.

The ESR committees also recommended strengthening career transition support, including working with employers on earlier retrenchment notices and providing tailored placement and training.

The ESR committees also mentioned that businesses needed to innovate and reposition themselves, with Singapore enabling them to proactively navigate transitions and pivot to viable opportunities.

“This could entail providing practical support for businesses to better understand their business health and make transition plans, including rationalising or offshoring parts of their operations to seize new opportunities,” the ESR committees said.

📌 Full list of recommendations

The full list of seven recommendations are:

- Transform Singapore’s advanced manufacturing industry to establish global leadership in key sectors.

- Pursue emerging opportunities in quantum, decarbonisation and space technology to push the growth frontier of the economy.

- Establish Singapore as an AI leader where companies and top talent can develop solutions.

- Strengthen connectivity with global markets and aggressively support local firms to internationalise.

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 3:16 pm]

- Uplift and transform jobs to broaden Singapore’s range of good jobs.

- Evolve skills and training models to make lifelong learning a practical reality.

- Provide practical support for businesses to navigate transitions. 

👉🏻   https://cna.asia/45HL3ui

👉🏻 https://cna.asia/4t6O1m7 

👉🏻 https://str.sg/CA3z

👉🏻  https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-launches-new-economic-strategy-review-to-stay-ahead-of-global-shifts

----

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 3:17 pm]

[ Poll : 1) I am confident that the recommendations and measures will continue to grow Singapore's economy. (Please share your reasons in the chat!) ]

- Strongly Agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly Disagree

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 3:17 pm]

[ Poll : 2) I am confident that the recommendations and measures will support workers and create good jobs. (Please share your reasons in the chat!) ]

- Strongly Agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly Disagree

365, [30/1/2026 3:27 pm]

Being a global leader in key sectors is a double edged sword. On one hand, we have additional bargaining power to get more favourable trades, on the other hand, it can invite geopolitical trouble. Computer chips is quite an example of this.

365, [30/1/2026 3:31 pm]

I would also suggest the government to diversify the sectors for training. If everyone's being trained with the same skillset for the same industry, they will cannibaslise each other and suppress wages. Train many people in different skills, so each of them fulfill a different role and advance together.

It could just be my uninformed and ignorant impression, but it seems like the government is focusing on AI and information technology related sectors only.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 3:39 pm]

1. AI has been identified as the main mover in every industries to boost productivity for workers and business.

2. Hence education and training will likely to emphasize more and more AI driven skillsets, exploiting AI agents to perform work, using LLM to generate codes etc.

3. If students and workers are increasingly moving along this line, there is a danger that students and workers will lose their foundational knowledge and basic skillsets while relying heavily on AI to help students and workers generate the outputs - without understanding the AI codes for example to debug, check for errors due to AI hallucinations, refine the codes, perform troubleshooting and test the codes, perform system integration.

4. Hence in education, IHL, Universities, students must still be trained in the foundation knowledge and skillsets without the help of AI.

5. And then at the later part of each lessons, train using AI as a tool to generate codes - by learning how to formulate problem statement to feed into AI and LLM.

6. While relying AI to give our students and the workers the productivity boost, education and training must still ensure our students and workers possess the foundation and fundamental skillsets eg. Able to code from start to end without AI.

7. Otherwise, our new generation of students and workers will heavily rely on AI, without AI, students and workers cannot do foundation coding.

8. This means our new generation of students and workers will not acquire the basic skillsets in which previous generation possess.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 3:58 pm]

Hence I propose IHLs, Universities to set 2 exams.

For example to illustrate for computer science (network) students, they will be test on 2 skillsets:-

1. Generate codes and test cases for 2 routers connectivity using OSPF (without AI).

Show routing successfully completed through ping and traceroute.

2. Use ChatGpt LLM to generate 2 routers connectivity via OSPF.

Modified the AI generated codes to include MD5 security for ospf connectivity.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 4:00 pm]

So for 1st exam, students and workers must be able to code from scratch without using AI - to determine whether students and workers have acquired the foundation skillsets of network.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 4:01 pm]

! Interfaces

interface GigabitEthernet0/0

 ip address 192.168.1.1 255.255.255.0

 no shutdown

interface GigabitEthernet0/1

 ip address 10.0.0.1 255.255.255.252

 no shutdown

! OSPF Configuration

router ospf 1

 router-id 1.1.1.1

 network 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 area 0

 network 10.0.0.0 0.0.0.3 area 0

end

write memory

🔹 Router 2 (R2) Configuration

Copy code

Cisco

enable

configure terminal

hostname R2

! Interfaces

interface GigabitEthernet0/0

 ip address 192.168.2.1 255.255.255.0

 no shutdown

interface GigabitEthernet0/1

 ip address 10.0.0.2 255.255.255.252

 no shutdown

! OSPF Configuration

router ospf 1

 router-id 2.2.2.2

 network 192.168.2.0 0.0.0.255 area 0

 network 10.0.0.0 0.0.0.3 area 0

end

write memory

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 4:03 pm]

For 2nd exam, the above codes will have been generated by ChatGpt LLM.

Prompt:- Generate cisco configuration codes - using ospf routing between 2 routers.

But candidates will be tested on amending the Cisco codes to include MD5 security in OSPF connectivity without the help of AI ChatGpt.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 4:04 pm]

! Interfaces

interface GigabitEthernet0/0

 ip address 192.168.2.1 255.255.255.0

 no shutdown

interface GigabitEthernet0/1

 ip address 10.0.0.2 255.255.255.252

 ip ospf authentication message-digest

 ip ospf message-digest-key 1 md5 OSPF-MD5-KEY

 no shutdown

! OSPF Process

router ospf 1

 router-id 2.2.2.2

 network 192.168.2.0 0.0.0.255 area 0

 network 10.0.0.0 0.0.0.3 area 0

 passive-interface GigabitEthernet0/0

end

write memory

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 4:07 pm]

📢 Topic 📢

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 4:08 pm]

So both exams:-

1. Self coding (no AI).

2. AI generated codes (but students amend the AI codes to include MD5 security) 

Will provide the teachers, professors and the employers the confidence that the students and workers possess the foundation skillsets and knowledge - without losing their basic skills and knowledge.

And yet able to tap on AI to massively boost their productivity.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 4:14 pm]

In other words, a worker who come to job interview must possess the skillsets and be able to do :-

1.

& 

2.

Proficiency in 1 only - no good because it shows that the candidate not able to make use of AI to boost his productivity.

Proficiency only in 2 is also no good. 

It means the candidate only know how to use AI to generate codes but does not possess the foundation skills.

If AI hallucinate, or unable to do system integration, this candidate will be at a loss to do debugging and perform system integration - because the candidate does not possess the skillsets of coding - as he rely on AI to do it for him.

So workers and students who possess only 2nd skillsets without the 1st skillsets is not valuable for the company.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 4:28 pm]

1. Also notice that for advanced manufacturing, HBM (high bandwidth memory) and GPU chips will be the next frontiers of AI growth.

2. GPU chips production seems to be coming out only from Taiwan and South Korea.

Singapore still unable to attract chips manufacturers to design and manufacture GPU chips in Singapore.

If we succeeded in doing so, our advanced manufacturing sectors will surely boom.

3. But luckily, we manage to secure Micron to pump billions of dollars to design and manufacture HBM for us.

Certainly a big boost to our advanced manufacturing.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 5:05 pm]

1. I think AI and IT are use as enabler and productivity tools to boost every industries and every sectors.

2. For example, IT enable online banking, eCommerce, eTransaction, online marketplace, social media etc - allowing business of various industries to leverage on internet to sell their products and services and thus expanding their customer base and reach.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 5:10 pm]

3. Customers can put fixed deposit via online banking and no need to take a trip down to the banks.

4. People can buy insurance products via eTransaction through the web.

5. Retailers can sought Livestream social media influencers to market and sell their products.

6. People can buy products via shopping platforms such as shoppe, Lazada, Amazon, Taobao etc.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 5:11 pm]

7. People no need to take a trip down to do their passport - everything can be done on the web.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 5:12 pm]

8. Shippers can use online website to file all their maritime documentation.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 5:14 pm]

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/smes/nanyang-optical-plans-enter-voluntary-liquidation-after-65-years-will-close-4-6-stores

Nanyang Optical plans to enter into voluntary liquidation after 65 years; will close 4 of 6 stores.

The eyecare chain’s remaining two stores, which are under franchise arrangements, will continue operating and are unaffected.

This was alongside weaker sales at the outlet, as more customers in Woodlands flock to Johor Bahru to buy related products, he observed.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 5:15 pm]

A very established local spectacle business is forced into liquidation because it is not able to transform itself.

If it is able to market its products online, probably he can grow and expand its business rather than go for liquidation.

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 5:29 pm]

The reasons why I propose to emphasize:-

1. Acquire foundation skillsets 

2. Use AI to boost productivity 

Is not to make the same mistakes like previously, we are coaxed to outsource all our coding, programming and software development to India, Philippines in the jest to save cost while our workforce concentrate on project management.

As a result, we lose the basic foundation skillsets and engineering knowledge to other countries.

We are force to in-sourced our software development and IT engineering skills back a few years later, as our economy lost our vital hardcore skills.

Also recall there is one opposition TJS who say we should offshore the whole manufacturing sectors to other low cost countries but only concentrate in service industries like US.

Luckily we didn't do it, else we end up like US - lose out the global manufacturing capabilities and capacity to China.

So in the case of AI, we must never make the same mistakes again by outsourcing coding to AI and lose the coding skills.

Once lost, very difficult to restart and regain it.

Khai Mun L., [30/1/2026 5:42 pm]

Don't agree with becoming leader in AI. Very hard to compete against countries that pump money into state controlled companies to attract local and overseas talents. SG cannot afford to all-in to this sector while letting other industries lapse. There is limited manpower and resources

Khai Mun L., [30/1/2026 5:46 pm]

Plus the term AI is used understood differently by some leaders. We should get digitalization first before wholesale into generative or AI learning models.

So many other tech stuff to consider first-power, water to maintain servers, cyber security, integration between departments and society, balance the hiring of foreigners to train/work in advanced AI firms, better ways of counter misinformation from AI etc

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 5:58 pm]

Ai and automation are leading. If growth are all related to ai which means jobs will be lost while gdp increase. Then attracting foreigner will be redundant as it only creates limited jobs to Singaporean 

2.if there's massive fail in ai then Singapore will be stagnant

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:02 pm]

manufacturing decarbonisation  and space and ai interesting

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 6:02 pm]

📢 Topic 📢

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 6:12 pm]

I think the fear of AI replacing jobs is real.

Very important to reassure workers that AI won't replace jobs.

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:18 pm]

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUH8Psyj5WD/?igsh=MTAyaGc1cW9sbjk3ZA==

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:19 pm]

Gan say that economic growth does not equal to new jobs

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 6:21 pm]

"Humans must learn to collaborate with artificial intelligence: Josephine Teo".

https://www.straitstimes.com/tech/humans-must-learn-to-collaborate-with-artificial-intelligence-josephine-teo#:~:text=Humans%20must%20learn%20to%20collaborate%20with%20artificial%20intelligence%3A%20Josephine%20Teo

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:21 pm]

The truth is when technology improve less entry level jobs is needed

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:22 pm]

you cannot expect everyone is in mid level or senior level

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:24 pm]

The boss will say since ai can do this for me why would I need you

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:25 pm]

DBS expects to shrink contract and temp jobs by 4,000 over next 3 years as AI replaces roles 

https://www.straitstimes.com/business/banking/dbs-ceo-piyush-gupta-sees-job-cuts-of-4000-temp-staff-as-ai-replaces-roles

Adam, [30/1/2026 6:26 pm]

Why are they personifying AI. Its like saying people need to learn to collaborate with cars. AI should be a tool. Maybe these people talk to a chatbot intimitely at home

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:28 pm]

Sometimes it's not about learning about ai, it's the nature of it. The job is unavailable at the first place

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:28 pm]

Are those 4000 people don't want to learn about ai?

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:29 pm]

They are more willing to learn but there's no vacancy for them

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 6:30 pm]

[26/01, 3:29 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: "JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon says he welcomes government ban on mass-firing people for AI: ‘We’re going to cure a lot of cancers’".

 https://fortune.com/2026/01/22/jpmorgan-chase-ceo-jamie-dimon-ai-layoff-income-assist-workers-elon-musk-sam-altman-universal-basic-income/#:~:text=JPMorgan%20CEO%20Jamie%20Dimon%20says%20he%20welcomes%20government%20ban%20on%20mass%2Dfiring%20people%20for%20AI%3A%20%E2%80%98We%E2%80%99re%20going%20to%20cure%20a%20lot%20of%20cancers%E2%80%99

[26/01, 5:41 pm] ☸️  Danny 心: Goodness.

JP Morgan CEO prediction is true.

If AI displace fresh graduates, there will be civil unrest.

All lose.

Hence companies must employ despite using AI.

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:31 pm]

It's already a tool in majority of the students during research. Lol. Even ntu penalise using ai in assignment

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:31 pm]

Who don't use gpt nowadays

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:34 pm]

Even in resume people are using ai

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:35 pm]

Companies will say I am still employing just that not as much

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 6:38 pm]

Yes.

Generally this is the fear many workers will be facing.

But as long as government and business can convince all the workers will have jobs, AI will complement us rather than replace us.

Using AI will bring higher income in terms of higher salary because of higher productivity, then I think we will feel ok.

Now is the uncertainties cause by AI that creeps in fuel by many negative reporting in US and the US companies - about AI replacing jobs.

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:39 pm]

Another thing to note is decarbonisation and being a leader of ai is in a conflict position

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:39 pm]

Ai generates a lot of carbon footprint

Ethan, [30/1/2026 6:39 pm]

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/psle-singapore-exam-dsa-desmond-lee-5891926

Ethan, [30/1/2026 6:39 pm]

This is absurd

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:40 pm]

Which I foresee ai carbon tax coming out

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 6:46 pm]

Nobody knows what to do as AI drives a surge in carbon emissions

https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/nobody-knows-what-to-do-as-ai-drives-a-surge-in-carbon-emissions

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 6:47 pm]

One way to cushion the impact of carbon emissions from AI is to use green energy eg. Nuclear energy (non-radioactive type).

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 6:49 pm]

Source :- Google AI

Big tech firms are increasingly turning to nuclear energy to power energy-intensive AI data centers, seeking 24/7, carbon-free, and reliable electricity. Companies like Amazon, Google, and Meta are signing deals for advanced nuclear technology, particularly Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which offer a smaller footprint and scalability. Nuclear is viewed as a crucial, sustainable alternative to fossil fuels to meet soaring demand, with projects accelerating to come online by 2030. 

LCL (Danny 心), [30/1/2026 6:58 pm]

This is the same sentiment when computerisation kick-in in the 1990s - many fear that computerisation and IT will replace many jobs.

Though it does replace jobs like typists (many people type using computers) not typewriters.

Computerisation, IT and internet have in fact trigger a full blown digitalisation jobs throughout the economy.

I suspect AI will do the same.

But this period of uncertainties, how AI transform jobs or will it replace our jobs - make everyone nervous.

Only when the AI dust settle down, then workers will know how to anchor ourselves.

Meanwhile there will be anxieties.

But as long as our government, business and union workers work closely together, I think all our people jobs will be secured.

But as workers or business, we need to adjust and transform to exploit AI as it comes.

Else we could end up like those established business - need to close down or liquidate.

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 7:26 pm]

Before it settle down there definitely have a job shortage as people do not know what is in demand

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 7:26 pm]

Or rather what is the right skills is needed.

Khai Mun L., [30/1/2026 7:26 pm]

There can never be guarantee that jobs won't be lost because of AI.

Companies, not government, make the decision based on their own business needs.

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 7:27 pm]

Ai have make it hard to identify what is real what is ai

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 7:28 pm]

A lot of misinformation can be spread easily, it's very hard to verify

Jun Ming, [30/1/2026 7:29 pm]

Especially knowledge based stuff

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 7:45 pm]

Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

RY, [30/1/2026 7:55 pm]

AI is an unevitable trend, whether U like it or not. We have to keep up to pace whether in education/work/different industries n etc

I recently attended the AI course with the skillsFuture credits. I now understand with AI, it may replace human jobs eg graphic designer/analyst and etc

AI is a new arena that can do many things eg analysing/marketing in biz n etc. Many new software eg Canva n etc, with the use of AI that may generate images/videos/content/analysing/slides n etc 

It really helps to slim-line many work process with AI

However, there are many cons also eg deepfakes that can be generated just using AI

Further, many copyrights issues fm the contents/videos/images generated fm AI

REACH Singapore, [30/1/2026 8:00 pm]

Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our Telegram chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

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