17 Feb 2020
[8:06 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
REACH (a participant)
The hustle and bustle of China finally quieted down, the restless society finally calmed down, and the restless Chinese people gradually calmed down.
The wild animals that were once held by humans in cages finally managed to keep humans in "cages".
Humans finally lowered their proud head and began to think quietly: Are we still the king of the earth? Mankind finally felt the power of nature once again.
In the face of the threat of death, human beings have only begun to reflect seriously, only to realize that a lack of awe-inspiring social atmosphere will lead to more harm and more risks.
The greedy heart is being purified by the virus, and the mouth that loves to eat is being punished by the virus. The people who have been soaking in the bright red and green places all day have been driven home by the virus. Go home.
There are fewer and fewer people on the street, a few cars on the road can't be seen, the air is getting fresh, the haze is gone, the sky is getting bluer, the sun is getting brighter, and the family is getting warmer Harmony, people's hearts have become more and more calm
People who have n’t read for many years have picked up books at home. From parents and children who have no communication with their children, couples who ca n’t say a few words a year have opened the conversation box. Children who do n’t know how to respect the elderly also began to be filial.
The virus taught human beings a vivid and profound lesson. It made us understand awe. It also let us know what is called "Good Times." It also made us feel true love on earth. It made us gradually fall in love "Return to the Road", we really should be grateful for this "enemy", we need such "enemy" to give us "reminder" and give us "empowerment".
The virus will not leave so quickly, it needs to see the "cultivation" of human good habits, and the virus will not continue to rag, because human love will gather more power to keep the virus away, time will tell us everything, Time will also prove what is right.
I really like "quiet China", and I hope Chinese people will take the initiative to build a "quiet China" without the virus reminding them again.
Quiet China, good.
Written by a Chinese pastor sent to a brother in Istanbul via friends in Singapore.
[9:06 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/coronavirus-covid-19-heng-swee-keat-budget-12439822
Quote:-
16 Feb 2020 - Pre Budget 2020 speech
The virus outbreak is a test of our social cohesion and psychological resiliency say DPM Heng Swee Keat.
<5 Feb 2020 - (2) Psychological Resiliency is what I am looking for and I found it.>
(2) Fear management programme may be necessary.
(3) But looking at how our Government engage the people - some framework are in place.
(4) But as the virus spread intensify - public fear can grow and broader, deeper and more pervasive effort may be needed.
(5) Fear Management should cover:-
- fear of life threatening scenario
- fear of the unknown, uncertainty
- fear of losing a life, the loved ones
- fear of economic loss eg. jobs, business
- how to regain confidence and live normally in view of the uncertainty, the anxiety, fear etc.
- how to emerge from the trauma when unfortunate event struck.
(5) On the hindsight, we can succeed to cement each group to become a "unified psychological resilient" population as a whole to weather this virus threat.
[9:16 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
Post from tan suee chieh ex ntuc income ceo who is an actuarist (calculates risks of people dying or getting sick to calculate premiums to charge for insurance) its long but v sensible esp when it tells u the odds of dying from normal old age is higher than from the virus....
COVID-19 – A psychological and an actuarial approach.
There is a lot of fear of COVID-19 coronavirus. Largely, it is the fear of unknown, as this virus is new.
As Gandhi said, “The enemy is fear. We think it is hate; but, it is fear.”
As a trained psychologist and an actuary, and a student of crowd dynamics, I would like to bring a sense of perspective, different contexts and rationality into the discussion on COVID-19 to dispel fear.
As of 15 February, we have 1527 number of deaths in the last three months arising from 67,000 infections (99 % from China). These numbers are certain to rise to tens and maybe hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions of infections. So when you hear about more deaths, you should not be alarmed. This is how pandemics work. For me, the increase in numbers were not particularly alarming, as they look like arithmetic progressions rather than geometric progressions.
So we do not have to be paralysed by fear of these statistics. We can be rational, objective and calm in our our response because
1. In 2009, the H1N1 swine flu which emanated in USA caused 360,000 deaths (range 150,000 -575,000) in the first year – CDC/Lancet. And 762 million infections in the first year. (Science Alert). The fatality rate was 0.1 %. Were you panicking then?
2. Do you know according CDC (Center of Disease Control – USA) about 40,000 people die from seasonal flus worldwide monthly? Do you worry about dying from seasonal flus?
3. Do you know that according to WHO (World Health Organisation, a United Nations organization) on a worldwide basis,
• 65,000 die from HIV monthly
• 112,000 die from car accidents monthly
• 130,000 die from diabetes monthly, and an additional 185,000 die from high blood glucose monthly
• 250,000 die from alcoholism monthly
• 600,000 die from smoking monthly
• 1.5 m from heart disease monthly
Also, according to John Hopkins University, 20,000 die monthly from from Iatrogenic causes (medical errors) in USA alone!
Don’t you think you should worry more about the above causes of death, which are more threatening to you than COVID-19 and which you have a better control of?
Don’t you think it’s better and more productive to lose weight, have a balanced diet, exercise, drive safely, sleep well and do not imbibe too much alcohol than to worry about COVID-19 inappropriately?
But of course, I am not asking you to be reckless. I ask you to be responsible and do your part! See the MOH website.
https://www.moh.gov.sg/images/librariesprovider5/default-album/moh5m_english.tmb-medium.jpg?sfvrsn=762d32d8_1
https://www.moh.gov.sg/images/librariesprovider5/wuhan-coronavirus/eng-jpg.tmb-medium.jpg?sfvrsn=396258d8_1
4. Current estimates of fatality rate of CPVID-19 is 1.5% to 2.5% but some scientists believe that eventually this rate will come closer to the swine flu of 0.1%. And PM Lee Hsien Loong implied that as well. Discovery of vaccines will of course reduce the rate to close to zero. And preliminary data suggest those who die are of vulnerable groups – those who are older and those who are already sick.
For comparison, mortality rates of Singaporeans
Age 50-54 0.376%
Age 55-59 0.619%
Age 60-64 1.318%
This mean if you are infected with nCOV-19, your chance of dying from it is quite close to a Singaporean person age 63 dying at the age of 63 of all causes. Does a 63-year-old man going around worrying he will die that year?
Please understand this. You have to get infected first. Your probability to get infected is very very low, and you can reduce this further. I will write in a separate posting on how you can reduce the rate of infection.
Lastly, if you do get infected, I can recommend things you can do to strengthen your immune system. Sleep and intermittent fasting. And, l will write on this separately later as well!
One of the philosophers I admire is Bertrand Russell. He said
“Fear is the main source of superstition... Toj conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom.”
If you agree with my sentiments, please share my posting.
[9:21 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim: Fear of Uncertainty is the greatest fear to Human.
How to calm Human in such fear - is the greatest challenge.
Solution is in the people's heart.
If your heart is strong and you are not scared - who else can scare you?
Stay calm, and serene and take one step at a time without fear or panic - is the strongest Psychological Resiliency.
Use common sense and live as per normal is the greatest Human strength to overcome fear from Uncertainty.
[9:32 AM, 2/17/2020] : 🤫🤫🤫
[9:51 AM, 2/17/2020] : Can I request a favour ? Can you put all your thoughts into a PowerPoint or slide , make it as a presentation so that we can try your posting better . Thanks
[9:32 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
???
that should be the REACH's job?
[9:33 AM, 2/17/2020] Blue White Flag Guy: Wah become PowerPoint presentation
[9:33 AM, 2/17/2020] Blue White Flag Guy: Your job lah don't push to Megan
[9:33 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
i am just a 闲人。
like anyone of you here.
[9:50 AM, 2/17/2020] Blue White Flag Guy: I not as bored as you ok
If got public transport issues I first to jump ship and solve that then I come back here
[9:50 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
闲人 doesn't mean bored.
BTW REACH will have used many technique to crawl thru the tons of postings here.
organise it, structured it and present it in a condensed form for the Gov and Cabinet Ministers to read. not in this raw form.
AI, natural language, topic modeling etc are part of those techniques.
闲人 provide feedback and ideas which is the purpose of REACH.
No need to "gay jua".
If the Gov find the ideas useful, they will use it that benefit people.
[9:50 AM, 2/17/2020] Blue White Flag Guy:
閑著沒事做
[9:50 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
闲人 in deeper meaning also means 有心人。
[9:50 AM, 2/17/2020] : No issue .. I am not correcting you . Just sharing trends.
If I sound like one , I apologise.
[9:50 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
no hard feelings.
no need apologise.
just sharing some thought.
giving ideas to solve national problem should be free flow 随心所欲。
only then ideas can be in purest form.
[10:32 AM, 2/17/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Hopefully "Disillushionment Phase" characterise by UTSD (Uncertainty Traumatic Stress Disorder) of fear, panic, anxiety, uncertainty as to how long the virus crisis is coming to end - will soon come to an end.
(2) After that Human needs to do a Deep Reflection of looking at meat alternatives such as cell-culture meat, vegetarians and others - without slaughtering animals leading to their fear and sufferings.
(3) So many virus and flu are related to animals - scientists say 75% of human epidemic are animal-based.
(4) Hope this virus epidemic is a wake-up call to Human mankind to evolve and transformed the meat source from a cruel method towards a more Compassionate methods such as cell-culture meat.
(5) (5) Human need to coexist harmoniously with Nature and Environment - so that in return, they will nurture Human harmoniously instead of turning malignant - in "what comes around, goes around."
[10:55 AM, 2/17/2020] REACH: Dear contributors,
As you may be aware, the Budget speech will be delivered on Tuesday, 18 February at 3pm.
Hence, we will be transitioning to also discuss the 2020 Budget announcements and measures. You may also continue to discuss the virus situation.
Meanwhile, if you have any friends who would like to join our discussions, do ask them to register at our website https://go.gov.sg/reachwa.
Megan 😊
---
18 Feb 2020
[1:01 PM, 2/18/2020] REACH:
Hi Everyone,
It’s Budget Day. I’m just as excited to find out what DPM Heng Swee Keat has in store for us this year. We look forward to your active discussion.
Meanwhile if you do have any friends who would like to join us in the discussion, do ask them to register at https://www.reach.gov.sg/whatsapp
Megan
[1:51 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) There are projection by local financial analyst that about S$8 billion budget deficit will be required to tackle the slowing down of our Economy that is projected to range from-0.5% to 1.5% in GDP due to COVID-19 outbreak.
(2) MTI has projected 3 whammy at 3 Ecconomic fronts :-
a. Manufacturing
b. Tourism, transport sector, retail
c. Wholesale
and has identified 3 bright spots in 3 Economic industries :-
a. IT
b. Construction
c. Financial banking services, insurance.
(3) Let us tackle our challenges one by one and see whether this will help :-'
a. If indeed $8 billion budget deficit is required to help our Economy to tie through this virus epidemic crisis - whether our accumulated budget surplus --- that we save from every years' budget surplus - is sufficient to make up the $8 billion without the needs to draw from our National Reserve?
- If we fall short, where do we tap the shortfall from - assuming we don't draw on our reserves and the Government is not thinking of raising tax eg. GST at this bad time - where people and business are facing difficulties from falling business.
- Is the Government tapping on more income earn from our Soverign Fund by increasing our NIRC (Net Income Return Contribution) from 50% to say 60% for example to make up for the shortfall?
b. Our Manufacturing sector - is affected because of 2 reasons :- 1. our regional supply chain is disrupted because China factories are closed due to the need to curb the virus spreading.
And 2. Reduction in consumer demand.
To tackle this, can we consider :-
i. Make use of this opportunity to string up another supply chain (not in this region) - as our backup or emergency supply chain - in case such epidemic, trade war, conflict, global warming etc - disrupt our this regional supply chain again.
- eg. can we have say Mexico-Canada-S America-EU-US supply chain
or some other non-regional supply chain.
- by doing so, we will have more than 1 supply chains eg,
a. Asia-ASEAN supply chain
b. Mexico-Canada-S America-EU-US supply chain
c. Other possible supply chain
-- in this way, if crisis struck, we can utilise our backup supply chain to keep manufacturing going.
--- at the same time, consumer demand can also tap from this source - through Digital eCommerce - by tapping on demand from our traditional source (ASIA, ASEAN)
c. Retail - Government should give additional boost and push --- to get more retail to jump onto the bandwagon of eShopping - eg. Lazada, Alibaba, Qoo10, Shoppe etc.
F&B should utilise eDelivery like GrabFood, Food Panda, Deliveroo etc.
All these will help to make these sectors going.
- For toursim, and transport --- Government can give incentives to boost local demand and regional ASEAN travelling.
d. Wholesale can use the same strategy like in Manufacturing - by looking for backup, alternative wholesale suppliers --- EDB and IE Singapore can help.
This must couple with Digital ePlatform - to facilitate ordering, eLogistics etc via our Trading ePlatform.
All the above suggestions, hopefully can offer some help and keep Singapore Economy going - while we sit tight waiting for this Covid-19 to blow over.
[1:54 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. Note :- suggest Government not draw into our reserves - because our passive revenue is earning huge NIRC - and should not be drawn on - and deplete its earning capacity.
2. Also suggest that assume the Government tap on the NIRC from 50% to 60% or more -- when the virus epidemic crisis is over --- suggest the Government should adjust the NIRC back to 50% to ensure that we continue to grow our Capital in Sovereign Fund - because a larger Capital sum in Sovereign Fund will earn more income return and higher NIRC.
3. If in good time, our Government should even put back the 60%-50% = 10% as Capital to Sovereign Fund - to earn more income return and NIRC.
4. By doing so, there will be less impetus to raise higher tax on the people and business - to make up for any shortfall in Government Expenditure - especially long term one that is vital to Singapore and Singaporeans survival such as Global Climate protection, Security spendings, Social spendings etc.
[2:09 PM, 2/18/2020] bbmag:
interesting points tho... and i belv some are, in fact, already in action~
and i think this is one government that is quite the technocrat type, and their approaches to things tend to be data-based, v scientific... (hehe maybe that's why some pple say no heart) but one thing has been obvious, they're always paranoid about over-reliance on a single source, be it of revenue or supply.
like water, long before our water agreements w msia are due to run out, we already trying to make our own water
and like tourism, as CCS said, no over reliance on a single market. look at what happened w taiwan, SK
and even for our economy, diversity has always been a core principle. else if one sector or market dies, we die along with it
i listened to the EDB MD's radio interview of the year 2019 in review, quite interesting
https://omny.fm/shows/money-fm-893/edb-singapore-2019-year-in-review
CCS also posted the infographic of 2019 in review
https://www.facebook.com/ChanChunSing.SG/posts/2913374545381176
[2:09 PM, 2/18/2020] REACH :
Good afternoon
Thanks once again for being a part of the REACH chatgroup. Remember, your feedback matters!
Gentle reminder of our Terms of Use, which is posted below for your reference:
a) Respect the views of others and refrain from using threatening, abusive, vulgar or racially, religiously and ethnically objectionable content;
b) Consider the quiet ones among us and give them a chance to comment as well;
c) Help protect each other’s privacy by NOT sharing contact details beyond this group;
d) More information can be found at https://go.gov.sg/reach-whatsapp-terms
We will be starting the discussion on Budget 2020 shortly, stay tuned :)
[2:17 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim:
Singapore Budget 2019: Budget deficit of S$3.48b expected for...
www.businesstimes.com.sg/government-economy/singapore...
The deficit, which amounts to 0.7 per cent of GDP, is the biggest since 2015, when it was S$4.05 billion. However, economists told The Business Times that the spending is well within the government's means, as it has accumulated a surplus of S$17.9 billion over the past three financial years.
--//
Not sure if S$17.9 billion accumulated surplus is correct.
If yes, we do not have to draw on our reserves.
Because the projected deficit is $8 billion.
2 Approaches to assist Singapore SMEs to transform quickly :-
(1) To expedite SMEs to transform their business model, system and process - and to exploit disruptive tech to help them to transform - so that they can be competitive quickly (such as riding through business competition, the virus epidemic that disrupt their traditional business, and to nudge them to exploit Digital Transformation to eCommerce) - the following steps may be considered.
a. rewards or incentives
- for some SMEs who want to transform, if "cherry" comes (giving them incentives) - will give them impetus to transform more quickly.
b. penalty (or punishment) - if they don't change
- but for some SMEs who know that they don't transform will not do well in future - but prefer status quo - even though cherry is offer - they won't bite.
- thus for these SMEs - must administer penalty - so that they will jump - as they are worst off if they don't transform. Eg. of penalty is more tax or higher administrative fees.
- Notice that Budget 2020 did not try this approach - I will propose to the Government to seriously consider this - for these SMEs own good - and their worker's own good.
(Carrot and Stick approach - is the best to effect changes )
软硬兼施 is the best change or transformation strategy.
c. help in providing consultancy services to help SMEs transform, centralised ePlatform to allow SMEs to tap on (eg. cloud services to host their goods and services), Mobile apps facilitate their eTransactions, ePayment, etc.
---
[8:03 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim: Building Coastal Defence should also incorporate revenue generation project in order to subsidise the cost of coastal defence.
Eg. sea facing condo and office building next or on the coastal defence that will fetch good price per unit to be sold to locals and foreigners like the Sentosa Cove.
This can help to offset the high $100 billion bill and lessen the burden from taxpayers.
[8:04 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim: Thus architect, building designers must work creatively with environmental experts to achieve this.
[8:09 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim: If condo or office buildings cannot be build on the coastal defence, other offshore revenue generation projects can be considered.
Eg. bunkering services for foreign ships to supply and sell them fuel outside the coastal defence.
ship-to-ship cargo transfer - to create virtual ports.
[8:29 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim:
Wonder if the cybersecurity budget of $1 billion include :-
(1) All the 11 to 12 Critical Information Infrastructure - that cover only all our Economic sectors such as Banking, Manufacturing, Government, Energy. Transport etc.
(2) Wonder does it cover private assets such as :-
- private autonomous vehicles that may ride on the 5G network -
- private IoT devices that ride on 5G network?
eg. smart homes, digital CCTV, smart TV etc ---- which can be remotely managed, monitor and control.
- all these needs to be secured as well.
- As our fiber backbone make use of the Internet and 5G wireless to access the private autonomous cars, and private IoT devices --- the chances of international hackers hacking into private autonomous system and private IoT devices - can also compromise other Economic sectors --- as they also ride on the Internet and the same 5G network.
- Unless the Economic sector IoT, autonomous cars, etc --- are physically segregated from the private IoT and autonomous cars -- will ensure cyber security.
But if this happen, private individuals will have problem accessing the Economic sectors' services when using their 5G phones.
(3) So will a National Intranet be created for Government, Public, Economic sectors be created for 5G, IoT and autonomous system and a separate Internet for private individual's 5G, IoT and autonomous system?
- If this physical segregation is to be the final design approach, a smartphone must possess the capability of launching virtual browser to access National Intranet and then use normal browser to access the Internet.
-----
[8:48 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) If smartphone is able to support virtual browser (similar analogy of terminal) - that pull IT resources from Govt web services, Enterprise web services, Bank web services etc - at their respective servers via a virtual server --- then smartphone will not be able to infect all the CII (Critical Information Service) - Government sectors and Enterprise servers with malware, phishing, computer viruses --- as Gov Web services and Enterprise Web services can only be pull down with the approved Digital Cert and remote-access authentication.
(2) The virtual browser is download by the Gov servers or Enterprise servers - upon successful authentication.
(3) Once the Government web transaction or other Enterprise web transaction is completed, all data, apps and virtual browser will be pull by the Gov and Enterprise virtual servers -- via the National Intranet (a separate 5G network or fiber network) ---- separate from the 5G and Internet network access by the private individual.
(4) This is the safest most secured method -- to protect the proliferation of AI, IoT and autonomous system deployed by Government and Enterprise that provide public services.
(5) International hackers coming in through the Internet who can break into private individual's smartphone or infect individual smartphone - cannot get into the virtual browser - as files, malware stored into smartphone cannot upload into the virtual browser and virtual server.
---
[9:37 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) A Nation-Wide Transport Management - Command and Control System maybe required as Digitalisation is now the trend in practically all transport mode.
(2) The National IntegratedTransport Management System should integrate with all the following sub-system specifically :-
- Bus Information Manaagment System (at the bus stop that display the bus arrival time and the bus number),
- ERP2 that collect road toll,
- MRT transport system (where in future, MRT may also need to be Internet-enabled to support IoT),
- Road Traffic Management (that manage traffic light),
- Highway Information Display System (that display road conditions along the highway),
- Car Park Managment System (that display the number of car park spaces available, and payment of parking charges).
- Taxi Calling System (that monitor availability of taxis, their locations, and hired/changed shift or available).
- The just announced green vehicles (ELV or hybrid) vehicles ---- should also be incentivised to include Internet and IoT enabled - so that it will benefit from the National Integrated Transport Management System
- - In future when driverless autonomous cars and buses are make readily available on the road - it can easily be monitored, managed by the the National Integrated Transport System via the 5G wireless network securely.
As driverless autonomous car are heavily IT based such as AI (to train and learn routes), sensor-based (to detect traffic light, cars, humans, objects etc), AR (Augmented Reality, where autonomous bus will display landscape info. as it travel passed the Nation landscape), image processing - to recognise color of the traffic light, voice activation, GPS for navigation, 5G wireless control etc. --- it is thus imperative for this autonomous car to be able to be securely manage, monitored and control by the Central command and control system.
- Even future flying drones and taxi-copter can be centrally manage and control by the Central Command and Control System.
- Wonder if PMDs, bicycle can be IoT enabled as well - so that Central can monitor them - to avoid danger if it ride on pedestrian path instead of PMD path.
- This proposed project will spear-head Singapore National Transport System into a next elevated plane --- and should be included into another National Transport Blueprint or White Paper for the next phase.
- Wonder if this National Integrated Transport Management System - included in the $1 billion cybersecurity bill for Transport?
----
[7:19 AM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) As more and more public and essential services such as AI, IoT, cloud, Digital Eonomy will increasingly be on 5G, a separate National Intranet for public used will be the safest option - instead of relying on Internet.
(2) DieHard movie - give a very real scenario where one group of ill intention international hackers hack in via Internet by mustering all hackers resources - to paralyse the whole country traffic, seize the news broadcast network, take control over the gas utilities to explode vital installation, turn off electricity nationwide and even direct a F22 raptor to missile bomb a running truck.
(3) This scenario is not too far fetched once come 5G wireless network and more national resources are IoT or Internet-enabled.
(4) Only a separate National Intranet can safeguard our cybersecurity away from the threat of international hackers.
[7:28 AM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Virtual browser solution for individual public end-devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptop etc need not carry more than 1 devices - one to access National Intranet and a separate one to access Internet.
(2) Individual can launch a Virtual browser from Gov or Enterprise Virtual Server to do Gov service or eCommerce transaction.
(3) Once done, the Virtual Server will pull back the Virtual browser.
(4) Files and data or malware from End devices can not cross-infect the Virtual Browser and vice-versa.
(5) This is the only safe and cost-effective solution to exploit the 5G network as well as enjoy all the benefits from AI, IoT and Cloud services in a Digital Economy.
(6) Individual user can access Internet by using their own devices physical browser, youtube, facebook etc without compromising the National Intranet - and need not carry a separate device to do this - thus saving cost for each public users.
[11:40 AM, 2/19/2020] REACH:
Did you know that the Care and Support Package includes:
Cash payment of up to $300
· Groceries voucher
· Workfare special payment
· Passion card top up
· Additional GST voucher-U Save rebate
· Grants to self help groups and community development councils
· S&CC rebates
Any thoughts?
[11:40 AM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Those who qualify and do not have Passion card should be issue free and deliver to their home so that they don't have to queue up.
Minimal human contact less virus infection.
(2) Those who have passion card - auto top up.
[11:53 AM, 2/19/2020] : 👌
[11:53 AM, 2/19/2020] : agreed. free delivery to home for those without cards and auto top up for those with cards to minimise queues
[11:53 AM, 2/19/2020] : passion card has been mailed to home all this while . My parents and mine was mailed to us ..
[12:11 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) A National Intranet also have the benefit of containing access within the Nation.
(2) Hackers within Singapore cannot "jump host" to overseas servers or clients to hide its identity and launch cyberattack.
(3) Also internal hackers cannot muster World IT resources to mount DDOS attack on our National Intranet and overwhelm our cyberdefense.
(4) Moreover cyberdefence engineer can easily trace and track internal hackers through digital forensic as our telco service providers ISP, cloud servce providers ASP can easily identify the internal hackers' identity.
(5) For overseas users who need to access our Digital public service, such services can be hosted in Internet without exposing our National Intranet.
---
[1:39 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
WHO 'very impressed' with Singapore's COVID-19 response
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-very-impressed-covid-19-coronavirus-response-who-chief-12448486
-----
-----
[2:12 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim: 19 Feb 2020
19 Feb 2020
Quote :-
Delivery firms however are bucking the trend, with some saying more are now using their services.
Both Grab and Deliveroo said they had each seen a 20 per cent increase in food orders in recent weeks.
The higher demand is not putting a strain on Deliveroo's resources however, with the firm noting its rider supply planning team uses data analytics to ensure an adequate number of riders on the road.
Foodpanda meanwhile said it has seen a 10 per cent week-on-week increase in order across its various food and grocery delivery platforms.
<c. Retail - Government should give additional boost and push --- to get more retail to jump onto the bandwagon of eShopping - eg. Lazada, Alibaba, Qoo10, Shoppe etc.
F&B should utilise eDelivery like GrabFood, Food Panda, Deliveroo etc.
All these will help to make these sectors going.>
Quote :-
E-commerce platform Lazada said it experienced a spike in bulk buying and large orders through its grocery service RedMart when the DORSCON level was changed to Orange.
“Orders exceeded 300 per cent of RedMart’s weekly average and we are currently seeing unprecedented demand,” said a Lazada spokesperson.
Shoppers are spending up to 10 times more on food staples, and up to five times more on paper products and up to six times more on personal care and household cleaning supplies, she said.
“The demand for online orders has surged beyond that for Lunar New Year period, and our daily delivery slots are running at almost full capacity since DORSCON Orange was declared two Fridays ago,” said a spokesperson for NTUC FairPrice.
<c. Retail - Government should give additional boost and push --- to get more retail to jump onto the bandwagon of eShopping - eg. Lazada, Alibaba, Qoo10, Shoppe etc.
F&B should utilise eDelivery like GrabFood, Food Panda, Deliveroo etc.
All these will help to make these sectors going.>
----
[2:16 PM, 2/19/2020] : Great boost for our domestic economy
----
[2:22 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
Quote:-
"In recent weeks, some places like Taiwan, Thailand and India have banned or tightened regulations on the export of masks. We are therefore strengthening the resilience of our supply chain, including looking for new sources, and developing local manufacturing capabilities."
<b. Our Manufacturing sector - is affected because of 2 reasons :- 1. our regional supply chain is disrupted because China factories are closed due to the need to curb the virus spreading.
And 2. Reduction in consumer demand.
To tackle this, can we consider :-
i. Make use of this opportunity to string up another supply chain (not in this region) - as our backup or emergency supply chain - in case such epidemic, trade war, conflict, global warming etc - disrupt our this regional supply chain again.
- eg. can we have say Mexico-Canada-S America-EU-US supply chain
or some other non-regional supply chain.
- by doing so, we will have more than 1 supply chains eg,
a. Asia-ASEAN supply chain
b. Mexico-Canada-S America-EU-US supply chain
c. Other possible supply chain
-- in this way, if crisis struck, we can utilise our backup supply chain to keep manufacturing going.
--- at the same time, consumer demand can also tap from this source - through Digital eCommerce - by tapping on demand from our traditional source (ASIA, ASEAN)>.
----
[5:14 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
Quote :- 18 Feb 2020 02:32PM
"With our fis
Quote :- 18 Feb 2020 02:32PM
"With our fiscal prudence since the beginning of this term of government, we have sufficient accumulated surplus to fund the overall decit in nancial year 2020.
There is no draw on past reserves." says DPM Heng Swee Keat.
<[1:54 PM, 2/18/2020] Rixky Lim:
1. Note :- suggest Government not draw into our reserves - because our passive revenue is earning huge NIRC - and should not be drawn on - and deplete its earning capacity.
2. Also suggest that assume the Government tap on the NIRC from 50% to 60% or more -- when the virus epidemic crisis is over --- suggest the Government should adjust the NIRC back to 50% to ensure that we continue to grow our Capital in Sovereign Fund - because a larger Capital sum in Sovereign Fund will earn more income return and higher NIRC.
3. If in good time, our Government should even put back the 60%-50% = 10% as Capital to Sovereign Fund - to earn more income return and NIRC.
4. By doing so, there will be less impetus to raise higher tax on the people and business - to make up for any shortfall in Government Expenditure - especially long term one that is vital to Singapore and Singaporeans survival such as Global Climate protection, Security spendings, Social spendings etc.>
<[2:17 PM, 2/18/2020] Ricky Lim:
--//
Not sure if S$17.9 billion accumulated surplus is correct.
If yes, we do not have to draw on our reserves.
Because the projected deficit is $8 billion.>
----
----
[7:06 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
Straits Times (19 Feb 2020) - Coronavirus: New cases in China fall for second day as death toll passes 2,000
Data this week from Japan and Singapore indicated those economies were on the brink of recession.
(Note :- HK is already in recession).
BUSINESS NEWSFEBRUARY 3, 2020 / 12:15 PM / 16 DAYS AGO
Hong Kong recession deepens as virus outbreak darkens outlook
---
(1) Thus our fight now is not only with the Covid-19 virus.
(2) We also need to fight to prevent our Economy going into recession.
--
[8:13 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
Straits Times (19 Feb 2020)
Data this week from Japan and Singapore indicated those economies were on the brink of recession.
Hongkong recession has worsened - from double whammy of social unrest and now virus epidemic.
(1) In view of the looming recession that are likely to hit Singapore Economy - based on the data presented as reported in ST 19 Feb 2020 - the Budget 2020 come timely.
(2) Analysing and dissecting the effects of Budget 2020 :-
(3) GDP is fuel by the following Multiplier factors :-
a. Trade - Net Export (where Export > Import)
b. Domestic Consumption / Consumer Spending / Tourism receipts
c. Government Expenditure / Government Spendings
d. Businesses Activities
(4) The Budget 2020 - $106 billion fiscal budget - are Government expenditure - that will have the effect of boosting our GDP in view of the virus epidemic.
However, Our GDP 2019 is $585.055 billion (PPP). Budget 2020 is about 1/6 of our total GDP.
Trade form a big part of our GDP.
Services form 75% of our GDP and Industrial output from 25% of our GDP.
(4) Our trade is hit and our supply chain is hit - affecting our maunfacturing & industrial output - the 25% industrial pie.
(5) Our tourism , airlines, port activities (slowdown in trade), f&b, retail sectors are hit - affecting the 75% service pie.
(6) The Budget 2020 is Government attempt to boost both the industrial output --- eg. $5 billion - Coastal and Flood protection - the Construction sector as well as the Service sector :-
- $1 billion cyber security spending - spur the IT service sector.
- $4 billion - is used to sustain the business day-to-day operation.
- other Government spendings - like cash transfer to Singaporeans - can help to boost domestic consumer consumption.
(7) Not sure whether the above is it good enough to keep our GDP afloat for at least the 1st quarter - to keep it above 0% (and prevent it from falling below 0%).
(8) The above breakdown look like is an attempt to keep the business going and not fold up (by injecting cashflow and working capital) - to keep business afloat --- maybe for 1, 2 or 3 months.
(9) The Budget is also target to keep jobs for workers - for these 2 to 3 months.
(10) Hopefully, the virus epidemic will subside by the next month or 2 - so that trade, tourism, travel, port activities --- will be revived and jumpstart our Economy - while our Budget 2020 - keep our business and jobs going.
(11) Meanwhile, look like we will have to depends on the least affected industries like IT, construction, banking, insurance services --- to keep our GDP afloat - where hopefully it will not drop below 0% this quarter 2020.
(12) This mean alot will depend on how well China fight their virus spreading in China and the downward trajectory in infected number as well as death - is a confident boosting number that the virus is subsiding.
People will gain confidence to come out to work, travel and do business.
(13) Likewise, Singapore and other parts of the World - must also see numbers whereby the virus epidemic are kept in control - and the number infected are going down.
(14) Only then, Singapore and the World - can declare full victory in the fight over the virus epidemic, save our Economy from recession and regional Economy from going down that impact our Economy.
[8:15 PM, 2/19/2020] REACH:-
[Sent by Gov.sg]
COVID-19: 19 Feb Update
As of 12pm:
New cases: 3
Total confirmed: 84
Discharged today: 5
Total discharged: 34
Total still in hospital: 50
Most in hospital are stable or improving. 4 remain in ICU.
2 of the new cases have links to previous cases.
More: Go.gov.sg/moh19feb
Supporting Singaporeans impacted by COVID-19
Stabilisation and Support Package
- Help employers to retain workers & increase wages
- Corporate Income Tax rebates
- Flexible rental payments for Govt-managed properties
Go.gov.sg/support-companies-workers
Tourism, transport, retail and F&B sectors get additional support
[8:16 PM, 2/19/2020] REACH:
Hi REACH Contributors,
Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and sharing your views.
As this discussion is an on-going topic, this chat group will remain open. You may continue to share your views on the topic. We seek your kind cooperation to exercise restraint on late night texting. In consideration of everyone’s desire for restful sleep, please do not text beyond 10pm.
We may continue our discussion again tomorrow morning at 9am.
Thanks, once again, for your active participation!
Megan ☺
----
[8:40 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Should the virus epidemic go beyond the 2 or 3 months - that Budget 2020 provide for to tie the business and job over --- and need additional budget to help the business and workers to keep the jobs for eg.
Need about say another $2 to $5 billion, propose to consider the following :-
a. Refrain from drawing on our reserves - because our reserve that form the Soveregin Funds are our cash cow ----- and which is in fact the "Goose that lay the Golden Eggs" --- being a "Passive Income" that generate very big income revenue.
- If we start to draw on our reserves, Sovereign Funds will have less sizeable Capital to invest --- to earn more income.
- this mean Government will be force to levy more taxes eg. GST, and other taxes to earn the revenue in order to finance Government Spendings to keep future Economy afloat.
- Our NIRC (Net Investment Return Contribution) in 2019 is a whopping $18.63 billion (50% of interest income) are generated by our reserves from Sovereign Fund.
- This mean we have another $18.63 billion plough back as reserves to increase our capital in Sovereign Fund.
(2) If worst come to worst, where all our past budget surplus are all used up - and need additional fund (for eg. $2 to $5 billion more) --- suggest to the Government to tap on the other half of $18.63 billion investment income.
(3) Assume additional $5 billion is needed, propose to draw from the $18.63 billion - $5 billion = $13.63 billion plough back to reserve as Capital of Sovereign Fund (and not draw from the reserves). This mean, 63% have been used as NIRC instead of the "sacred formula" of 50% NIRC to be used as fiscal budget revenue.
(4) In future when our Economy do better, there is a commitment to plough back the borrowed investment income of $5 billion back to the Sovereign Fund and maintain the "sacred formula" of 50% NIRC and 50% back to reserve.
----
[9:14 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Essentially, we have move into the 3rd Phase of tackling the virus epidemic - our 3rd Pillar ---- Economic Defense.
---
[9:14 PM, 2/19/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Essentially, we have move into the 3rd Phase of tackling the virus epidemic - our 3rd Pillar ---- Economic Defense.
---
[1:34 PM, 2/20/2020] Ricky Lim:
20 Feb 2020 (Thu)
Quote:-
20 Feb 2020 08:56AM
The newly announced measures to help firms, workers and households amid the novel coronavirus outbreak are appropriate for now but the Government is prepared to do more if necessary, said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat on Wednesday (Feb 19) at a post-Budget television programme.
He was responding to a question about the possibility of a supplementary Budget if the COVID-19 situation is prolonged.
Given how the COVID-19 outbreak will have a significant impact on Singapore and the global economy, Mr Heng said the measures are intended to protect Singaporeans' jobs, stabilise the economy with a “sufficient fiscal boost” and help sectors that are directly affected, as well as support households.
Suggestion:-
<[8:40 PM, 2/19/2020] :
(1) Should the virus epidemic go beyond the 2 or 3 months - that Budget 2020 provide for to tie the business and job over --- and need additional budget to help the business and workers to keep the jobs for eg.
Need about say another $2 to $5 billion, propose to consider the following :-
a. Refrain from drawing on our reserves - because our reserve that form the Soveregin Funds are our cash cow ----- and which is in fact the "Goose that lay the Golden Eggs" --- being a "Passive Income" that generate very big income revenue.
- If we start to draw on our reserves, Sovereign Funds will have less sizeable Capital to invest --- to earn more income.
- this mean Government will be force to levy more taxes eg. GST, and other taxes to earn the revenue in order to finance Government Spendings to keep future Economy afloat.
- Our NIRC (Net Investment Return Contribution) in 2019 is a whopping $18.63 billion (50% of interest income) are generated by our reserves from Sovereign Fund.
- This mean we have another $18.63 billion plough back as reserves to increase our capital in Sovereign Fund.
(2) If worst come to worst, where all our past budget surplus are all used up - and need additional fund (for eg. $2 to $5 billion more) --- suggest to the Government to tap on the other half of $18.63 billion investment income.
(3) Assume additional $5 billion is needed, propose to draw from the $18.63 billion - $5 billion = $13.63 billion plough back to reserve as Capital of Sovereign Fund (and not draw from the reserves). This mean, 63% have been used as NIRC instead of the "sacred formula" of 50% NIRC to be used as fiscal budget revenue.
(4) In future when our Economy do better, there is a commitment to plough back the borrowed investment income of $5 billion back to the Sovereign Fund and maintain the "sacred formula" of 50% NIRC and 50% back to reserve.
----
[9:14 PM, 2/19/2020] :
(1) Essentially, we have move into the 3rd Phase of tackling the virus epidemic - our 3rd Pillar ---- Economic Defense.
--->
Quote:-
There will also be two other special packages worth more than S$5 billion. The first is a S$4 billion Stabilisation and Support Package to help firms with their cash flow and retain workers, while the other is a S$1.6 billion Care and Support Package to help households with their expenses.
Suggestion:-
<After Note :- $5 billion to $5.6 billion looks an appropriate sum to tie our business and keep our workers' job for another next 3 months - if the virus epidemic extend beyond March.
Because Budget 2020 allocate $4 billion to stabilise business and $1.6 billion for individual and household>
Quote:-
Mr Heng also fielded questions about the need to remain focused on the longer-term goal of transforming Singapore’s economy and what that means for workers.
In this Budget, a total of S$8.3 billion has been allocated for transformation and growth strategies over the next three years. This includes building stronger partnerships, deepening capabilities of local enterprises and developing the workforce.
Suggestion:-
[7:32 PM, 2/18/2020] :
3 Approaches to assist Singapore SMEs to transform quickly :-
(1) To expedite SMEs to transform their business model, system and process - and to exploit disruptive tech to help them to transform - so that they can be competitive quickly (such as riding through business competition, the virus epidemic that disrupt their traditional business, and to nudge them to exploit Digital Transformation to eCommerce) - the following steps may be considered.
a. rewards or incentives
- for some SMEs who want to transform, if "cherry" comes (giving them incentives) - will give them impetus to transform more quickly.
b. penalty (or punishment) - if they don't change
- but for some SMEs who know that they don't transform will not do well in future - but prefer status quo - even though cherry is offer - they won't bite.
- thus for these SMEs - must administer penalty - so that they will jump - as they are worst off if they don't transform. Eg. of penalty is more tax or higher administrative fees.
- Notice that Budget 2020 did not try this approach - I will propose to the Government to seriously consider this - for these SMEs own good - and their worker's own good.
敬酒不喝，喝罚酒。
(Carrot and Stick approach - is the best to effect changes )
软硬兼施 is the best change or transformation strategy.
c. help in providing consultancy services to help SMEs transform, centralised ePlatform to allow SMEs to tap on (eg. cloud services to host their goods and services), Mobile apps facilitate their eTransactions, ePayment, etc.
---
Quote:
He added that one of Singapore’s major challenges is an ageing population and a shrinking workforce.
“What it means is that the ability of those who are working (and paying taxes) to support those who are not working, will come down over time. We really don't want to impose a big burden on our future generations.
“So the question always is – is this an idea that can be implemented in a sustainable way over the long term, and is this the best way?” he said.
Suggestion:-
<[1:54 PM, 2/18/2020]:
1. Note :- suggest Government not draw into our reserves - because our passive revenue is earning huge NIRC - and should not be drawn on - and deplete its earning capacity.
2. Also suggest that assume the Government tap on the NIRC from 50% to 60% or more -- when the virus epidemic crisis is over --- suggest the Government should adjust the NIRC back to 50% to ensure that we continue to grow our Capital in Sovereign Fund - because a larger Capital sum in Sovereign Fund will earn more income return and higher NIRC.
3. If in good time, our Government should even put back the 60%-50% = 10% as Capital to Sovereign Fund - to earn more income return and NIRC.
4. By doing so, there will be less impetus to raise higher tax on the people and business - to make up for any shortfall in Government Expenditure - especially long term one that is vital to Singapore and Singaporeans survival such as Global Climate protection, Security spendings, Social spendings etc.>
<2 other alternatives other than relying on NIRC from Soveregin Fund to cushion tax on shrinking working younger people :-
i. Encourage Singaporeans to have more babies - to improve our ratio of younger workforce vis-a-vis ageing population (which unfortunately, Singaporeans are not breeding as much - despite many birth incentives policies.)
ii. Allow young mmigrants to fill up the gap (based on our demographic population distribution) - and subsequently become our "new citizens".
-= "Nation before Self" to keep Singapore going that will in return benefit "Native Singaporeans".
Quote:-
Mr Heng said technology will likely continue to evolve so Singapore should keep an open mind to other environmentally friendly vehicle options.
But at the moment, electric cars seem to be the “most promising” option and if Singapore can lay out the necessary infrastructure, it should be able to catalyse the use of these cars in Singapore, he added.
Suggestion:-
<Note:- In future when autonomous bus, car, drones that are IoT or Internet enabled - that can be centrally administered, remotely control, manage or monitored via 5G wireless network --- suggest that ELV electric vehicles should also be installed with IoT or Internet enabled capabilities - because it will fit very well with the following proposed next phase Integrated Transport Blueprint, or White Paper or Masterplan --- to have a totally integrated Transport System --- to ensure effectiveness and transport efficiency --- to allow smooth flow of traffic and timely arrival of public and private transport).>
<[9:37 PM, 2/18/2020] :
(1) A Nation-Wide Transport Management - Command and Control System maybe required as Digitalisation is now the trend in practically all transport mode.
(2) The National IntegratedTransport Management System should integrate with all the following sub-system specifically :-
- Bus Information Manaagment System (at the bus stop that display the bus arrival time and the bus number),
- ERP2 that collect road toll,
- MRT transport system (where in future, MRT may also need to be Internet-enabled to support IoT),
- Road Traffic Management (that manage traffic light),
- Highway Information Display System (that display road conditions along the highway),
- Car Park Managment System (that display the number of car park spaces available, and payment of parking charges).
- Taxi Calling System (that monitor availability of taxis, their locations, and hired/changed shift or available).
- The just announced green vehicles (ELV or hybrid) vehicles ---- should also be incentivised to include Internet and IoT enabled - so that it will benefit from the National Integrated Transport Management System
- - In future when driverless autonomous cars and buses are make readily available on the road - it can easily be monitored, managed by the the National Integrated Transport System via the 5G wireless network securely.
As driverless autonomous car are heavily IT based such as AI (to train and learn routes), sensor-based (to detect traffic light, cars, humans, objects etc), AR (Augmented Reality, where autonomous bus will display landscape info. as it travel passed the Nation landscape), image processing - to recognise color of the traffic light, voice activation, GPS for navigation, 5G wireless control etc. --- it is thus imperative for this autonomous car to be able to be securely manage, monitored and control by the Central command and control system.
- Even future flying drones and taxi-copter can be centrally manage and control by the Central Command and Control System.
- Wonder if PMDs, bicycle can be IoT enabled as well - so that Central can monitor them - to avoid danger if it ride on pedestrian path instead of PMD path.
- This proposed project will spear-head Singapore National Transport System into a next elevated plane --- and should be included into another National Transport Blueprint or White Paper for the next phase.
- Wonder if this National Integrated Transport Management System - included in the $1 billion cybersecurity bill for Transport?>
----
Quote :-
Meanwhile, apart from the Government's efforts, Singapore’s goals to tackle climate change will need to involve Singaporeans as well, said Mr Heng.
“We can do something ourselves because the choices we make shape the carbon footprint,” he said. “Every one of us can make a difference.”
Suggestion:-
28 Jan - 6 Feb 2020
(1) And Human these 3 inherent traits of 贪嗔痴情， greed, hatred (anger) and ignorance - are translated into fruitions of epidemic, global climate and war (瘟疫，天灾，人祸)。
(2) It arises from human heart, mind, speeches and actions
(万法唯心造)。
--
(1) In other words, human mind and heart - can determine human destiny.
(万法唯心照).
(2) Be wise, do good - good fruition, good outcome.
(3) Unwise, selfish, self gratification - bad fruition, bad outcome.
(4) Human destiny is in our own heart, own mind in our own hand.
--
(1) 治灾先治心。
(2)To cure the World from Epidemic, Global Climate and War - first cure Human Heart and Mind.
---
---
[2:06 PM, 2/20/2020] Ricky Lim:
Last but not least ----
We need to identify and resolve the root cause of this virus epidemic.
According to scientist, this Covid-19 virus epidemic is due to transmission from animals to Humans.
In fact, scientists identify about 75% of the virus epidemic in the World such as SARs, MERs, Ebola, Bird Flus such as H1N1 and its variants, AIDs, swine flu, mad cow disease etc...
The root cause are Humans slaughtering and consumption of Animal meat.
We need to find a Compassionate Way of meat consumption or vegetarian diet.
Cell-culture meat, vegan meat, beyond meat, vegetarian foods are good replacement for live animal meat.
We can start with Singapore --- though like Global Cliimate - we need the Whole World to do it together to be effective.
For eg. Singapore as a red dot protect the Climate, if the World still harm the Climate, Singapore will still be flooded by rising water.
Singapore even though stop live animal food, but if one Country got contracted by a virus epidemic due to eating animal meat with virus - it will still spread into Singapore like this Covid-19.
But Singapore can always set a good example - and hopefully entice the rest of the World to emulate.
One day, Human race can elevate themselves into a higher plane of Noble Existence - without harming Animals, Global Climate and Human Conflict. （瘟疫，天灾，人祸）。
[1:02 PM, 2/9/2020] Ricky Lim :
Becos humans and animals are dying in mutual destruction.
You see the effects of flu killing lives becos humans slaughter and eat meat.
We cannot all go vegetarians at one go and stop all eat meating because many food business will collapse and people cannot just let go of meat cold-turkey.
we need to find a more compassionate alternative.
cell-cultured meat is a compassion way to eat meat without killing animals.
and animals are committing good deeds to humans without taking their lives.
only then flu epidemic will stop.
[2:08 PM, 2/20/2020] Ricky Lim: Else the World will repeat this major exercise - a few years down the road in a vicious cycle if Humans refused to learn from this mistake.
---
[2:24 PM, 2/20/2020] Ricky Lim:
And the consequences of virus epidemic to Human races are :-
1. Fear and Panic, Proliferation of fake news, rumors, irrational behavior from fear and panic (叫天 天不应。 叫地 地不灵）。
2. Disruption of Human lives
3. Quarantine, Leave of Absence, Hospitalisation
4. Sickness and Sufferings, some even death
5. Economic impact - Recession, loss of business, job loss, reduction in Government revenue, Business revenue, Individual income
---- because Human's memory is very short. If don't hit them directly, they have forgotten the painful lesson.
---
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] John: Someone must tell the ministers, to take it easy on GST, erp & tax . Put a limit please , must not go on and on .
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] Daniel Poh: Actually we are like fortune god the minister pray us ba? We pay n pay n pay!
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] John: Life is getting tough here for many local citizen,it’s the people who set the rules, if its getting tougher after the change of guard, it’s mean we” re stupid. You know who is squeezing from the top.
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] Daniel Poh: Like Sugar cane...after squeezed
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] Rama: Government does as it please with limited justification
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] Leonard: So pls also pray that our NIRC grows every year ; Temasek and GIC see huge growth so that we need lesser tax from GST and personal income taxes revenue .
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] Thomas: Really depends on criteria of our expectation of standard of living.
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] Rama: All have to lower their expectations and standards of living with enough to get by. No extravagance.
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] John: Now the foreigners come to S” pore, Who welcome them ? Better hold tigh to what you have ! Or we may end up wearing sarongs, no more pants.
[6:30 PM, 2/20/2020] Ricky Lim:
Quote:-
CNA 20 Feb 2020 01:56PM
“redistributive effect of Government transfers”, the national statistical office said.
It reported that resident households here, including those with no working members, received an average of S$4,682 per member from various Government schemes last year.
---
(1) If a household of 3 person assume spend $3,000 per month as household expenses - that means $36,000 per anuum is spend per household.
(2) If GST increase to 9% of $36,000 = $3,240 is paid as GST to Government.
(3) As average household receive S$4,682 per member from various Government schemes, that means in total, a 3 members household will have received = $4,682 x 3 = $14,046.
(4) The 3 member household still earn = $14,046 - $3,240 (GST 9%) = $10,806 if CNA's report is correct.
(5) Thinking aloud, I think Singaporeans have received GST voucher, SCC town council rebate, school fees subsidy, healthcare subsidy etc.... --- not including CPF interest per annum.I think the Government transfer of National wealth to Singaporeans are credible. But many Singaporeans still do not know it.
----
[6:38 PM, 2/20/2020] Ricky Lim:
Quote:-
CNA 20 Feb 2020 01:56PM
“Resident households in HDB one- and two-room flats received S$10,548 per household member on average, which was more than double the transfers received by resident households staying in other dwelling types,” SingStat said in a release.
Households headed by a Singapore citizen or permanent resident and at least one working member - grew 1 per cent in real terms, from S$9,293 in 2018 to S$9,425 last year per household.
---
Taking into account household size, median monthly household income per member rose 4.3 per cent in real terms, from S$2,792 in 2018 to S$2,925 last year.
---
(1) This is the actual income statistics - from Singaporeans and Permanent Residents.
(2) So the Government did attempt to transfer more wealth to lower income group and lesser to middle and higher income group.
(3) This is a progressive "redistribution of wealth" - more to lower income group, slightly less to middle income group and lesser for higher income group.
(4) But the Government as a Compassionate and Wise Government - who is responsible to grow Singapore Economy, ensure all Singaporeans and PRs have good jobs - also share the National Wealth with Singaporeans.
---
[6:40 PM, 2/20/2020] Richard: We should be grateful to them as they are taking up the jobs that Singaporeans do not want to work even if we are unemployed !
---
[6:45 PM, 2/20/2020] Ricky Lim: (1) In future when Oppie or anyone complain about our Government heartless, always increase tax, Government only enrich themselves --- the above actual statistics, facts and data --- is a good and solid rebuttal.
身在福中，不知福。
--
[8:00 PM, 2/20/2020] Ricky Lim:
CNA - Upbeat Chinese foreign minister says COVID-19 control efforts 'are working'
20 Feb 2020 03:08PM
Quote:-
"Fear is more threatening than the virus, and confidence is more precious than gold," China Foreign Minister Wang Yi added.
Comments:-
[8:13 PM, 2/19/2020] :-
<(12) This mean alot will depend on how well China fight their virus spreading in China and the downward trajectory in infected number as well as death - is a confident boosting number that the virus is subsiding.
People will gain confidence to come out to work, travel and do business.
(13) Likewise, Singapore and other parts of the World - must also see numbers whereby the virus epidemic are kept in control - and the number infected are going down.
(14) Only then, Singapore and the World - can declare full victory in the fight over the virus epidemic, save our Economy from recession and regional Economy from going down that impact our Economy.>
Quote:-
There are fears prolonged disruption by the virus could slow work on the massive China-backed Belt and Road infrastructure schemes which criss-cross ASEAN.
But Wang laughed off concerns on Thursday, telling AFP there "won't be any negative impacts" on various projects dotting the region.
"In contrast, it will strengthen our collaboration and unity, and push forward the Belt and Road initiative together," he told AFP.
But he recognised the "massively detrimental" economic impact of the disease, which has constricted global trade and tourism vital to many Southeast Asian economies.
Comments:-
28 Jan - 6 Feb 2020
(1) One mega trade deal will already be impacted which is RCEP where China is the main lead.
(2) RCEP suppose to mitigate the US-China trade war.
(3) Now RCEP impacted. Economically how to feel relieve.
<After note:- If China resume leadership to conclude the RCEP - which is suppose to be done end Feb 2020 --- then it will be a confidence boosting for ASEAN and Asia Pacific.
A needed refreshing good news that will be a welcome news after series of bad news such as US-China trade war, HK social unrest, Covid-19 virus ---- all impacting the ASEAN and Asia Pacific economy.).
----
[8:12 AM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
Government "Redistribution of Wealth" to Singaporeans in the form of "cash transfer" directly or indirectly - at the top of the head to narrow the gap of income inequality - can be:-
1. GST voucher
2. SCC rebate
3. Power utilities rebate
4. Medisave topup
5. Pioneer Gen package
6. Merdeka Gen package
7. School fees subsidy and GST exemption
8. Healthcare subsidy and GST exemption
9. Income tax rebate
10. CPF accounts annual interest
11. Passion card topup
12. Transport card subsidy for lower income and senior citizens
13. Free 1st set topbox for analogue to digital TV.
14. Housing grants
15. HIP house improvement programme subsidy
--- anything i miss ?
[8:36 AM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Suggest Government can send an Annual Statement of Account of Cash Transfer from Government to each Singaporeans - with detail breakdown end December and the total amount each Singaporean received.
(2) In future, when Oppie or anyone complain Gov heartless, this tax, that tax, pay-and-pay....
(3) Just refer the to the total amount of cash transfer they received every year.
(4) This will be the strongest rebuttal and strongest defense against the claim that the Government is heartless when in fact there are redistribution of wealth.
[8:37 AM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) This will save alot of Politican breath and time to go up to election rally to rebutt Oppie's pay-and-pay slogan.
[8:40 AM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) And can certainly defeat Oppie high cost-of-living claim, GST increase of 7% to 9%.
[8:48 AM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) The Statement of Account should be send to each Singaporeans
(2) As well as total amount received by each household
(3) Then Singaporeans can visualise a consolidated view per household and per individual.
[12:10 PM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Will people read the proposed Annual Statement of Account on Government Fund Transfer to Singaporeans?
(2) I am quite confident that people will read if money is inolved. eg. Gov send CPF statement, SCC rebate, Power utilities rebate etc.
(3) Some cost is involved in printing this statement and deliver them.
But all info. are available. Just need computer to pull the right data.
[12:18 PM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Why Gov use GST broad based tax system and not other taxes?
(2) Worldwide, Gov are reducing corporate and personal tax.
To be competitive to keep business in Singapore, we have to keep such taxes low and thus safeguard local jobs.
(3) By using GST, rich and foreigners who are high spenders don't mind spending while unhappy to pay higher personal tax and corporate tax.
(4) Gov can help lower and middle income thru GST rebates year after year build into the fiscal budget.
---
[12:52 PM, 2/21/2020] : thoughts and energy. May they all get better and get well soon!
[12:53 PM, 2/21/2020] 🙏🙏🙏
[12:55 PM, 2/21/2020] 👌👍✌🙏
[1:00 PM, 2/21/2020] REACH: 🙏🙏🙏
----
----
[1:22 PM, 2/21/2020] Ron:
Our Govt uses the Robin Hood method on GST consumption tax. There are many ways to raise revenue. Most countries uses the Earning Tax method (income, profits, dividends, etc). This is unfavourable for business and people who work hard. So another way is using the Consumption Tax approach ....... service tax, GST, etc. The more you consume, the more you pay. This tax is one way to manage inflation. Since GST is broad base, it hits everyone alike. For the rich, they have the money anyway. For the middle class (condo living 4-5 room HDB), they will complain but perhaps cut back on luxury and unnecessary items (but on a need to have basis). For those in the lower level, the Government chose to give back in the form of GST vouchers. In fact, they will likely get more than they will actually spend on GST. I was first against this method choosing to hold GST increase, but after lots of thinking, this is quite a good way to re-channel the wealth back to the lower income group. Those who are rich and can afford to pay GST, will pay. And the money collected will be channeled back to those who are not rich in the form of spending vouchers, etc. I am much happy to note it was reported our Gini co-efficient has gone done - affirming the methods used by Govt to raise the bottom level pay and giving back through vouchers. The above is my view.
---
[1:48 PM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
Does middle-upper and higher income lose out alot from the GST consumption tax?
Not really because they also get some "redistribution of wealth" :-
(1) Income tax rebate - in some good years.
(2) Lower personal income tax (though progressive) - but the income tax rate is quite low vis-a-vis other Countries. These middle and upper income people have larger disposable income to spend.
(3) Corporate tax are also low - where business owner gain from this.
(4) There are other subsidy there are not related to condo, private apartment and landed properties - where many subsidy are link to :-
a. Skill future credit
b. Workfare salary compensation to business
c. Transform SMEs to tackle disruptive tax
d. GST voucher
f. Medisave topup
g. Pioneer Gen package
h. Merdeka Gen package
i. School fees subsidy and GST exemption
j. Healthcare subsidy and GST exemption
k. CPF accounts annual interest
l. Passion card topup
m. Scholarship for good students
(5) For some middle-upper and upper income group - they will only buy high value designer, high class goods and services.
Not expensive won't buy as they are perceived to be of high quality and market value.
Then this is very good for the GST system - because higher price products and services --- means high GST tax collection.
(6) For lower income group and middle income group, how much they can spend eg. $4,000 per month or $48,000 per year which is already very high household expenditure.
How much GST they are paying per month?
$48,000 x 9% = $4,320
And the Government "cash transfer" to lower income group = S$4,682 per member (middle, upper income) amd S$10,548 per household member (lower income group).
(6) So every Singaporeans share the "National Wealth redistribution" - and no income groups actually lose out.
No one force the middle-upper or richer to spend more --- it is their wishes to do so.
(7) So GST tax system is a good tax collection system.
And in Singapore, GST is a Compassionate tax system - unlike what the Oppie say is a regressive system that make lives difficult for lower and middle income group.
(8) Thus if Govt print out an Annual Statement to each Singaporeans and household ---- noise about GST increase 7% to 9% will be very muted.
Ignorance is not Bliss.
Knowledge is Power.
Government can empower Singaporeans - with Knowledge.
---
[1:48 PM, 2/21/2020] Alvin:
Agreed. GST is a consumption tax, the more you spend the more you pay for it. To the rich they don’t mind, and they contribute much to the gov coffers. The middle class will feel the pinch and think twice before hasty spending spree and the poor will get help from the collected money mostly from the rich. I think as long as social mobility is fluid and possible to more from one strata to a higher strata, the nation is in good hands.
----
[1:48 PM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
Does middle-upper and higher income lose out alot from the GST consumption tax?
Not really because they also get some "redistribution of wealth" :-
(1) Income tax rebate - in some good years.
(2) Lower personal income tax (though progressive) - but the income tax rate is quite low vis-a-vis other Countries. These middle and upper income people have larger disposable income to spend.
(3) Corporate tax are also low - where business owner gain from this.
(4) There are other subsidy there are not related to condo, private apartment and landed properties - where many subsidy are link to :-
a. Skill future credit
b. Workfare salary compensation to business
c. Transform SMEs to tackle disruptive tax
d. GST voucher
f. Medisave topup
g. Pioneer Gen package
h. Merdeka Gen package
i. School fees subsidy and GST exemption
j. Healthcare subsidy and GST exemption
k. CPF accounts annual interest
l. Passion card topup
m. Scholarship for good students
(5) For some middle-upper and upper income group - they will only buy high value designer, high class goods and services.
Not expensive won't buy as they are perceived to be of high quality and market value.
Then this is very good for the GST system - because higher price products and services --- means high GST tax collection.
(6) For lower income group and middle income group, how much they can spend eg. $4,000 per month or $48,000 per year which is already very high household expenditure.
How much GST they are paying per month?
$48,000 x 9% = $4,320
And the Government "cash transfer" to lower income group = S$4,682 per member (middle, upper income) amd S$10,548 per household member (lower income group).
(6) So every Singaporeans share the "National Wealth redistribution" - and no income groups actually lose out.
No one force the middle-upper or richer to spend more --- it is their wishes to do so.
(7) So GST tax system is a good tax collection system.
And in Singapore, GST is a Compassionate tax system - unlike what the Oppie say is a regressive system that make lives difficult for lower and middle income group.
(8) Thus if Govt print out an Annual Statement to each Singaporeans and household ---- noise about GST increase 7% to 9% will be very muted.
Ignorance is not Bliss.
Knowledge is Power.
Government can empower Singaporeans - with Knowledge.
---
[1:48 PM, 2/21/2020] Alvin:
Agreed. GST is a consumption tax, the more you spend the more you pay for it. To the rich they don’t mind, and they contribute much to the gov coffers. The middle class will feel the pinch and think twice before hasty spending spree and the poor will get help from the collected money mostly from the rich. I think as long as social mobility is fluid and possible to more from one strata to a higher strata, the nation is in good hands.
----
[1:52 PM, 2/21/2020] bbmag:
some people like to argue on how GST is a regressive tax and it hurts the poor people. that's a bit of cherry-picking . impt to bear in mind that GST is but one of the components in our entire tax system (which is highly progressive). gotta look at GST in conjunction w all the transfers like you mentioned.
tks much for the clarity!
[1:53 PM, 2/21/2020] : Good to see it from multiple perspectives
[1:53 PM, 2/21/2020] : I'm poor and I'm not complaining 😆
---
[1:53 PM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
Ignorance is not Bliss.
Knowledge is Power.
Government can empower Singaporeans - with Knowledge.
---
[2:01 PM, 2/21/2020] Alvin:
👏🏻👍🏻 well said
[2:28 PM, 2/21/2020] Ron:
I agree with most points. But I have reservations on annual statement from Govt. If they can actually provide an individual with a personal P&L statement, they must know 100% all our income and expenditure. That would be scary.
[2:28 PM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. not p and l statement.
2. just Gov fund transfer to people.
3. people expenses is their privacy.
[2:30 PM, 2/21/2020] Leonard:
Well Said ; . The society progress when the G and people work together towards a common goal .
[2:30 PM, 2/21/2020] Alvin:
That’s why everyone need critical thinking to digest the news or info and let it sit for a min before sharing or blasting out to others
[2:30 PM, 2/21/2020] :
Some people be critical without even having critical thinking skills tho!
---
Fund transfer from Govt to CPF is already in CPF summary statement sent annually.
[9:55 PM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
Not all the info. are there.
definitely it won't add up to $4,682 for middle to upper income or $10,548 for lower income group.
in fact it give wrong impression eg. $100 gst which is not complete.
and the main reason why people are against gst.
[9:55 PM, 2/21/2020] Ricky Lim:
also not wise to put different info. for different purpose together.
it will confuse the readers.
cpf statement - for nest egg.
Gov transfer - for National Wealth redistribution.
2 different info. for different purpose.
---
[12:05 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
Scenarios in which this virus epidemic may stop:-
1. virus die by itself - due to change in weather.
2. Human develop stronger immunity with more mild infection and anti-body.
3. Standard treatment is established that can cure the virus. People has less fear and resume normal lives despite virus still spreading.
4. Vaccine found and effective in curbing virus.
[12:11 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. All the above scenarios takes time - and Economy will stall while waiting for either of the scenarios to happen.
2. that is business stall, jobs in peril.
[12:21 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. While waiting, constructive efforts will be more productive than closing down business or retrench workers to cut loss.
2. transform business digitally with lesser human touch.
3. train workers in newly transform business are productive steps.
4. close business or retrench workers are regressive steps - when done, things are lost and hard to come back.
5. providing cashflow and working capital is what the Gov is now doing.
6. both biz and workers must expliot these - is the message.
7. When any of the above scenarios arise, business and workers and Economy can bounce back.
[3:52 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. that means "pacifying phase" is over.
天 has move over to "terminating phase" - making the conditions for virus to live and spread unconducive. That means the virus has run out its full course.
2. that means "Human body system has become stronger and can defend against the virus attack on Human".
3. Cocktail HIV and flu drugs are working.
China found that TCM in combination of Western drugs are even more effective.
Medical experts including Singapore is going to Wuhan to collect more info.
4. Vaccines are said to be ready earliest by April 2020 to be tested on Humans.
[4:55 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
Only those who are interested in metaphysics will find the pictorial explanation interesting.
---
Others who deem this unscientific - pse ignore this message.
---
8
0
-----
%
/0
----
Universal
3 wheels pulley system set in motion.
Upper - 天
Middle - 地
Lower - 靈
六道轮回。
(Vicious cycle of 三界 set in motion)
[5:04 PM, 2/22/2020] REACH:
Please stick to the topic. Thank you.
[5:09 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. Weather change - 天。
2. Virus cannot live longer - 地
3. Virus demise - 靈。
[5:04 PM, 2/22/2020] Phyllis:
Pew Pew Pew
[5:13 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
2. else virus live and spread ?????
[6:24 PM, 2/22/2020] richard Wong:
Sir, you are very informative and well verse on all areas, finance, politics, medical , economics etc . Can I know which industry you are in ?
[6:24 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim: none.
[6:24 PM, 2/22/2020] richard Wong:
So humble 👍👍👍. Anyway thanks for sharing your knowledge and views.
[9:44 PM, 2/22/2020] Phyllis:
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/coronavirus-3-new-confirmed-cases-bringing-total-to-89-2-discharged?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=stfb
3 more confirmed cases.
[9:59 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
you can use pew pew pew to shoot the 3 virus case.
just nice.
[10:33 PM, 2/22/2020] Ricky Lim:
👼🙎♂🧟♂
天地靈 妳也射？
👏👏👏
[10:54 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim:
China, SKorea and Japan reported more cases of virus infection.
[10:55 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/south-korea-reports-123-more-coronavirus-cases-2-deaths
[10:57 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/japan-struggles-with-contact-tracing-as-infections-grow
[10:59 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/coronavirus-may-be-the-disease-x-health-agency-warned-about
[11:01 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/chinas-hubei-province-reports-96-new-deaths-due-to-coronavirus-630-new-cases
[11:48 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim:
Scenarios in which this virus epidemic may stop:-
1. virus die by itself - due to change in weather.
2. Human develop stronger immunity with more mild infection and anti-body.
3. Standard treatment is established that can cure the virus. People has less fear and resume normal lives despite virus still spreading.
4. Vaccine found and effective in curbing virus.
[11:48 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim:
Yesterday, signs show that a small "v shaped" virus infection has spread globally.
Instead of an "L shape" the few days before.
[11:48 AM, 2/23/2020] : You mean Victory and Loser?
[11:48 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim:
It look not so good for humans...
unless something favorable to humans happen...
[11:52 AM, 2/23/2020] Leonard:
Where is the indicator ?
[11:52 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim:
you can't see..
[11:53 AM, 2/23/2020] : ✌👆
[11:53 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim:
this morning news report you all can see.
[11:54 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/chinas-hubei-province-reports-96-new-deaths-due-to-coronavirus-630-new-cases
[11:54 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/japan-struggles-with-contact-tracing-as-infections-grow
[11:54 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/south-korea-reports-123-more-coronavirus-cases-2-deaths
[11:59 AM, 2/23/2020] Leonard:
I mean the V shaped sign ..
[11:59 AM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim:
you can't see .....
[12:12 PM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: Italy just announced a spike in 79 cases and 2 death.
[12:12 PM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/italy-pm-announces-halt-to-entry-and-exit-from-covid-19-hotspots-12461774
[12:22 PM, 2/23/2020] Ricky Lim:
Else i won't mention :-
8
0
%
/0
yesterday for fun.
[11:33 AM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) This virus epidemic has the consequences of:-
a. impacting business
b. impacting jobs
- by instilling fear, eroding confidence and sapping morale - if it continue to drag longer.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-coronavirus-businesses-rent-sales-12461962
(2) Due to its fast spreading nature that can infect many people unnoticed.
a. It caught medical people flat footed.
b. And it also cause some death - it create panic.
(3) The best situation is when weather change and the virus subside and go off by its own.
(4) The worst situation is that it remain like any seasonal flu, and humans need to develop vaccines, cure and build up our immune system to tackle such virus.
(5) Else what kills Humans is not the virus - but the Economy.
[12:04 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) The crux of the threshold - to move people and Economy - from this virus epidemic fear - back into normalcy - currently is still eluding - because globally the virus infection has taken a "v-shaped" comeback 2 days ago -- instead of "L-shape" that are tapering off which look likely a few days earlier.
(2) Now we need to wait and hope the "v-shape" trend eventually taper off to form a prolong "L-shape" trend.
(3) Only then Humans can breathe easier and signal - back to nomalcy.
[12:23 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) To effectively tackle the virus:-
a. hope and wait for weather change - that make virus unconducive to live
b. establish standard cure, vaccines
c. boost individual immunity system - eat well, rest well, exercise well, keep cool and calm
(2) To resume normalcy, and resume Economy vibrancy:-
a. Psychological resiliency to overcome fear and anxiety.
b. Work, live and resume lives normally.
c. Take common sense approach - see doctor if unwell, take precaution as and when needed without the need to over-react
d. Take initiatives to resume trade, business, shop, investment and take necessary precaution in travelling.
(3) Humans must continue to live, work and play ss fully as possible while mounting defences against this virus threat - and not let the virus defeat us by preying on our fear, deprive us Economically and break our social fabric.
---
[1:16 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim: ---
(1) Feel that at this point in time, to prevent local SMEs going into more difficulties or fold up or start retrenching workers - boosting local demand to keep them afloat or breakeven is the best we can do (as foreign travellers will take some times to come back - eg. when virus epidemic "L-shape" occur and become a trend - before foreign travelling will come back).
(2) Also notice that banks, hi-tech industries are reporting good profit and doing well - in this trying time.
(3) Local media should play a more active role in boosting business confidence such as re-focusing in promoting business activities, economic activities etc --- while still keeping people inform about the virus epidemic development and keeping our health containment, prevention and safety intact.
(4) Feeling that this could be a prolong fight against the virus epidemic - we may need to shift gear --- to re-focus on Economy to boost the morale of the business, workers and subsequently the public at large.
(5) This is a 持久战 - and we need to regain Initiatives - and not let the virus "lead us by our nose", destroying our Economy and tear our social fabric ---- so that we can overcome this virus threat and let it one day to subside eventually.
===
[1:56 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) For eg. local media can broadcast :-
a. Virtual Digital Banking - that are coming on board soon to supplement local banking - that will help to finance SMEs with cashflow and working capital --- and this comes a good time - when SMEs are facing cashflow and working capital crunch - despite some help from Government Budget 2020.
b. Promote some successful business model - that have successfully transform from traditional business to digital business - to motivate, spur and jumpstart local SMEs to transform their business and train their workers --- so that when the virus epidemic blew over - they can conduct their business in the next elevated plane.
c. Broadcast 5G technology initiaitves and many possible applications - that can help SMEs to come up with new ideas to transform their business and ride on the new 5G wireless network that will come on board soon.
d. Broadcast possible new coastal defence development and likely revenue generation projects - to boost interest in construction sectors and financial sectors.
(2) The above are some ways for Government to shift gear - and help the public to re-focus, re-gain confidence, mute public fear --- while still carry news about the virus epidemic and keep health safety intact.
(3) By doing so, it will help to revive our domestic Economy and keep it going - while get our business, workers and public ready - for the virus epidemic to blow over --- so that we can rebounce our Economy in a next higher elevated plane.
(4) We should orchestrate ourselves to move into this phase now - instead of letting people drift along the phase of languishing in fear, lacking confidence, and start to lose morale.
---
---
[7:04 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim: ---
(1) Look like a pandemic fear - may become a reality.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid19-china-italy-south-korea-global-spread-pandemic-fears-12463282
(2) That means a sharp "V-shape" pandemic is increasingly likely that will affect globally - the feared worst scenario.
(3) If this happen, we cannot just sit around and wait for the pandemic to die down - because every month - business need to pay fixed and variable costs like rent, power utilities, salaries and other expenses. Business need to go on and revive itself from doldrum.
(4) Workers are expected to receive salaries and income - to feed their families - and thus expected to continue to work and bring in business.
(5) It will be a new normal - where the virus turn into pandemic - but our Economic lives must go on and Government must re-focus on this new realities and new normal - and spur the people to move on - at the backdrop of the virus rampaging.
(6) While the Nation stay vigilant to keep the virus at bay, while business, workers and public take precaution to protect ourselves against the epidemic --- our Economic lives must go on - and not let the virus fear - take a toll on our Economic lives and social lives - while maintaining vigilant.
(7) Meanwhile, at the medical front, we must re-double our effort to find effective standard cure and effective vaccines to tackle the virus ----- and make the virus bengin like seasonal flu --- so that this will remove the public fear and stigma on the virus threat --- and normalise the people's lives.
(8) While Humans hope for the best and wait for the weather and cliimate to change - and make the virus unconducive to rampage on and goes off by itself.
(9) At the end of a long dark tunnel - one day we will be able to see light - we must keep our spirit high meanwhile while waiting for this "light".
(10) Humans are known to overcome such adversity and threat.
----
[8:16 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim: ---
(1) With sudden political uncertainty from our neighbor --- we have to be increasingly alert - and watch out for any spillover development if it happen.
(2) The next thing we don't want is another naval standoff - in the midst of defending ourselves from the virus threat.
---
[7:04 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim: ---
(1) Look like a pandemic fear - may become a reality.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid19-china-italy-south-korea-global-spread-pandemic-fears-12463282
(2) That means a sharp "V-shape" pandemic is increasingly likely that will affect globally - the feared worst scenario.
(3) If this happen, we cannot just sit around and wait for the pandemic to die down - because every month - business need to pay fixed and variable costs like rent, power utilities, salaries and other expenses. Business need to go on and revive itself from doldrum.
(4) Workers are expected to receive salaries and income - to feed their families - and thus expected to continue to work and bring in business.
(5) It will be a new normal - where the virus turn into pandemic - but our Economic lives must go on and Government must re-focus on this new realities and new normal - and spur the people to move on - at the backdrop of the virus rampaging.
(6) While the Nation stay vigilant to keep the virus at bay, while business, workers and public take precaution to protect ourselves against the epidemic --- our Economic lives must go on - and not let the virus fear - take a toll on our Economic lives and social lives - while maintaining vigilant.
(7) Meanwhile, at the medical front, we must re-double our effort to find effective standard cure and effective vaccines to tackle the virus ----- and make the virus bengin like seasonal flu --- so that this will remove the public fear and stigma on the virus threat --- and normalise the people's lives.
(8) While Humans hope for the best and wait for the weather and cliimate to change - and make the virus unconducive to rampage on and goes off by itself.
(9) At the end of a long dark tunnel - one day we will be able to see light - we must keep our spirit high meanwhile while waiting for this "light".
(10) Humans are known to overcome such adversity and threat.
----
[8:16 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim: ---
(1) With sudden political uncertainty from our neighbor --- we have to be increasingly alert - and watch out for any spillover development if it happen.
(2) The next thing we don't want is another naval standoff - in the midst of defending ourselves from the virus threat.
---
[8:19 PM, 2/24/2020] Kelvin Law:
Ok I have to respond:
(1) Obviously
(2) What naval standoff? I'm sure they are more creative than that. They always have Anwar.
[8:26 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim:
Malaysian king appoints Mahathir as interim PM after accepting his resignation
---
[9:20 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim:
Coronavirus: Scientists ‘pass first hurdle’ towards creating vaccine
The Independent Andy Gregory,The Independent Sun, 23 Feb 4:43 AM SGT
https://sg.yahoo.com/news/coronavirus-scientists-pass-first-hurdle-204300054.html
---
---
[9:44 PM, 2/24/2020] Ricky Lim: ---
Quote:-
China 'comprehensively' bans illegal wildlife trade after COVID-19 outbreak
24 Feb 2020 03:10PM
(Updated: 24 Feb 2020 05:38PM) https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/coronavirus-covid19-china-ban-wildlife-trade-12464294
A very good 1st step -----
<[8:13 PM, 2/14/2020] :
(1) After this virus epidemic crisis saga ---- it is must be a "sharp pointed lesson" for Human mankind --- "like a knife stab onto our thigh" --- that Human must never forget ---- to seriously look at the source of virus epidemic that threaten to wipe out human races.
(2) Animals' infection where virus jump from animals (domesticated or wild viruses - eg. camel eg. MERS, pig eg. swine flu, cow eg. mad cow disease, poultries birds eg. bird flu, Scrapie that attack sheep nervous system etc or all sorts of wild animals eg. bats said to cause SARs, suspected Wuhan flu, Ebola, AIDs etc).
(3) Meat by slaughtering animals (domesticated or wild) for food, even insects like cricket, and other insects, worms etc (that are now trying out as protein source) --- should be avoided - that will invoke unintended virus or other type of diseases to jump from animals and insects to Human --- as it involve slaughtering them for human consumption --- which is unwholesome.>
---
[9:09 AM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
CNA Quote:- 24 Feb 2020 09:13PM (Updated: 24 Feb 2020 09:40PM)
“Even as countries take strong measures to contain the disease in the early phases, we should begin exploring how over the longer term we can best manage the health effects of the virus on our people, while progressively restoring economic activities and international trade and travel,” said Mr Lee.
“Singapore has some ideas, which my Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan shared with State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi when they met in Laos last week. Our officials can discuss this further.”
<[7:04 PM, 2/24/2020] : ---
(1) Look like a pandemic fear - may become a reality.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid19-china-italy-south-korea-global-spread-pandemic-fears-12463282
(2) That means a sharp "V-shape" pandemic is increasingly likely that will affect globally - the feared worst scenario.
(5) It will be a new normal - where the virus turn into pandemic - but our Economic lives must go on and Government must re-focus on this new realities and new normal - and spur the people to move on - at the backdrop of the virus rampaging.
(6) While the Nation stay vigilant to keep the virus at bay, while business, workers and public take precaution to protect ourselves against the epidemic --- our Economic lives must go on - and not let the virus fear - take a toll on our Economic lives and social lives - while maintaining vigilant.>
CNA Quote:- 24 Feb 2020 09:13PM (Updated: 24 Feb 2020 09:40PM)
"It is to China’s credit that its willingness to work with the international community has allowed us all, including affected countries like Singapore, to develop test kits and come up with appropriate measures to manage the outbreak together," she added.
Mr Lee said Singapore researchers are ready to collaborate with their Chinese counterparts and share their expertise to work towards a vaccine and treatment for the coronavirus.
<[7:04 PM, 2/24/2020] : ---
<(7) Meanwhile, at the medical front, we must re-double our effort to find effective standard cure and effective vaccines to tackle the virus ----- and make the virus bengin like seasonal flu --- so that this will remove the public fear and stigma on the virus threat --- and normalise the people's lives.
(8) While Humans hope for the best and wait for the weather and cliimate to change - and make the virus unconducive to rampage on and goes off by itself.
(9) At the end of a long dark tunnel - one day we will be able to see light - we must keep our spirit high meanwhile while waiting for this "light".
(10) Humans are known to overcome such adversity and threat.>
CNA Quote:- 24 Feb 2020 09:13PM (Updated: 24 Feb 2020 09:40PM)
“Even as countries take strong measures to contain the disease in the early phases, we should begin exploring how over the longer term we can best manage the health effects of the virus on our people, while progressively restoring economic activities and international trade and travel,” said Mr Lee.
“Singapore has some ideas, which my Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan shared with State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi when they met in Laos last week. Our officials can discuss this further.”
<[7:04 PM, 2/24/2020] : ---
(1) Look like a pandemic fear - may become a reality.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid19-china-italy-south-korea-global-spread-pandemic-fears-12463282
(2) That means a sharp "V-shape" pandemic is increasingly likely that will affect globally - the feared worst scenario.
(5) It will be a new normal - where the virus turn into pandemic - but our Economic lives must go on and Government must re-focus on this new realities and new normal - and spur the people to move on - at the backdrop of the virus rampaging.
(6) While the Nation stay vigilant to keep the virus at bay, while business, workers and public take precaution to protect ourselves against the epidemic --- our Economic lives must go on - and not let the virus fear - take a toll on our Economic lives and social lives - while maintaining vigilant.>
CNA Quote:- 24 Feb 2020 09:13PM (Updated: 24 Feb 2020 09:40PM)
"It is to China’s credit that its willingness to work with the international community has allowed us all, including affected countries like Singapore, to develop test kits and come up with appropriate measures to manage the outbreak together," she added.
Mr Lee said Singapore researchers are ready to collaborate with their Chinese counterparts and share their expertise to work towards a vaccine and treatment for the coronavirus.
<[7:04 PM, 2/24/2020] : ---
<(7) Meanwhile, at the medical front, we must re-double our effort to find effective standard cure and effective vaccines to tackle the virus ----- and make the virus bengin like seasonal flu --- so that this will remove the public fear and stigma on the virus threat --- and normalise the people's lives.
(8) While Humans hope for the best and wait for the weather and cliimate to change - and make the virus unconducive to rampage on and goes off by itself.
(9) At the end of a long dark tunnel - one day we will be able to see light - we must keep our spirit high meanwhile while waiting for this "light".
(10) Humans are known to overcome such adversity and threat.>
---
[2:42 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. Fortunate that our Leadership succession is orderly and well planned - by selfless successive Leaders.
2. Next is to get and win the mandate from the people.
3. The virus epidemic comes untimely.
4. But it is also a good test on how the incoming leadership weather this crisis and win over the confidence of the people.
5. The outcome of the test look promising.
[3:08 PM, 2/25/2020] KS Foong:
No matter what, i think the leadership transition at our end is much better managed. Of course, at the moment, there r distraction occurs here and there. To me, i m very clear on what i want.
[4:13 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Because our Leadership succession is orderly and well-planned, we don't need to create internal crisis.
(2) When a leadership succession is not plan, there is a tendency to create an internal crisis to stay in power.
(3) And when it still did not resolve the root cause of the dispute, it will create an external crisis as distraction to stay in power.
(4) We need to watch our back not to be picked as object for distraction.
[4:32 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. All those issues that submerged from public radar eg. water, territorial boundary, air spaces etc may resurface again.
2. Naval standoff possibilities cannot be discounted.
3. We need to be ready while watching what is unfolding.
[4:46 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-hopes-leaders-in-malaysia-will-come-to-an-agreement-soon-says-dpm-heng
[4:48 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/republic-of-singapore-navy-to-get-new-chief-from-march
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Because our Leadership succession is orderly and well-planned, we don't need to create internal crisis.
(2) When a leadership succession is not plan, there is a tendency to create an internal crisis to stay in power.
(3) And when it still did not resolve the root cause of the dispute, it will create an external crisis as distraction to stay in power.
(4) We need to watch our back not to be picked as object for distraction.
[4:16 PM, 2/25/2020] Droll:
Leadership succession can be orderly and well-planned if it is within the control of those that want to stay in power. That's why in MY the transition was chaotic. There was a fight for power between different groups.
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
Leadership succession can be orderly and well-planned if it is within the control of those that want to stay in power. That's why in MY the transition was chaotic. There was a fight for power between different groups.
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. All those issues that submerged from public radar eg. water, territorial boundary, air spaces etc may resurface again.
2. Naval standoff possibilities cannot be discounted.
3. We need to be ready while watching what is unfolding.
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Alvin:
Sg will never take our sovereignty for granted so we will not "discount" anything
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Alvin:
But knowing Tun M, he will stir up issues with us again if he gets into power in the next GE
------
ST Quote :- [3 PM 25 Feb 2020]
The Singapore Government is monitoring political developments across the Causeway closely, and it will respect the decision of the Malaysian leaders and work with the government of the day, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat said on Tuesday (Feb 25).
Mr Heng was responding to a question from reporters on developments in Malaysia, following a visit to Parkroyal on Kitchener Road Hotel, and he noted that the situation in Malaysia was evolving rapidly.
"It is a domestic matter, and I hope that the various parties will come to some agreement expeditiously," he added.
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-hopes-leaders-in-malaysia-will-come-to-an-agreement-soon-says-dpm-heng
REACH Post
[8:15 PM, 2/24/2020] : ---
(1) With sudden political uncertainty unravelling from our neighbor --- we have to be increasingly alert - and watch out for any spillover development if it happen.
(2) The next thing we don't want is another naval standoff that caught us by surprise - in the midst of defending ourselves from the virus threat.
---
[2:42 PM, 2/25/2020] :
1. Fortunate that our Leadership succession is orderly and well planned - by selfless successive Leaders.
2. Next is to get and win the mandate from the people.
3. The virus epidemic comes untimely.
4. But it is also a good test on how the incoming leadership weather this crisis and win over the confidence of the people.
5. The outcome of the test look promising.
[4:13 PM, 2/25/2020] :
(1) Because our Leadership succession is orderly and well-planned, we don't need to create internal crisis.
(2) When a leadership succession is not plan, there is a tendency to create an internal crisis to stay in power.
(3) And when it still did not resolve the root cause of the dispute, it will create an external crisis as distraction to stay in power.
(4) We need to watch our back not to be picked as object for distraction.
ST Quote :- [3 PM 25 Feb 2020]
In his remarks to reporters, Mr Heng noted that Malaysia is Singapore's closest neighbour and both countries have many joint projects in the works. These include the Singapore-Johor Baru Rapid Transit System and the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail. The two countries have also set up a joint working group to step up cooperation in tackling the Covid-19 outbreak.
"We will respect the decision of the Malaysian leaders, and we will work with the government of the day," he said of ongoing developments in Malaysia
"I very much hope that we can continue our cooperation quickly. We will work with the government of the day to advance the many areas of bilateral cooperation that we have embarked on, and particularly in dealing with the Covid-19 outbreak," he added.
Mr Heng, who is also Finance Minister, also hoped both neighbours can work together in dealing with the important changes going on in the global economy, to strengthen their economies.
"There are many areas of cooperation between Malaysia and Singapore that we can pursue, that we must pursue to strengthen one another, as well as to to work together in Asean to maintain the unity and centrality of Asean," he added.
REACH Post
[4:32 PM, 2/25/2020]
1. All those issues that submerged from public radar eg. water, territorial boundary, air spaces etc may resurface again.
2. Naval standoff possibilities cannot be discounted.
3. We need to be ready while watching what is unfolding.
----
[5:48 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Good that our DPM take a proactive approach to reach out to our neighbor first rather than reacting after it come across to our shore.
---
[10:42 AM, 2/26/2020] Ricky Lim:
CNA Quote:- 25 Feb 2020 10:14PM (Updated: 25 Feb 2020 10:20PM)
DORSCON level could be lowered if COVID-19 spreads widely worldwide: Gan Kim Yong
If there is widespread transmission around the world, Minister Lawreence Wong said "that might well be the scenario where the virus becomes embedded in the human population".
"And we have to learn how to live with it, take the necessary precautions," he added.
"Hopefully (there might be) some medication that can be promising by then. But at the same time, we all have to keep calm and carry on with life, but just with appropriate precautions."
Reach posting:-
[12:05 PM, 2/22/2020] :
Scenarios in which this virus epidemic may stop:-
1. virus die by itself - due to change in weather.
2. Human develop stronger immunity with more mild infection and anti-body.
3. Standard treatment is established that can cure the virus. People has less fear and resume normal lives despite virus still spreading.
4. Vaccine found and effective in curbing virus.
[11:33 AM, 2/24/2020] :
(3) The best situation is when weather change and the virus subside and go off by its own.
(4) The worst situation is that it remain like any seasonal flu, and humans need to develop vaccines, cure and build up our immune system to tackle such virus.
(2) To resume normalcy, and resume Economy vibrancy:-
a. Psychological resiliency to overcome fear and anxiety.
b. Work, live and resume lives normally.
c. Take common sense approach - see doctor if unwell, take precaution as and when needed without the need to over-react
d. Take initiatives to resume trade, business, shop, investment and take necessary precaution in travelling.
---
[12:43 PM, 2/26/2020] Ricky Lim:
Coronavirus: Singapore, Malaysia agree on areas of cooperation at first meeting of joint working group
12.30 PM 26 Feb 2020
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/coronavirus-singapore-malaysia-agree-on-areas-of-cooperation-at-first-meeting-of-joint?cx_testId=20&cx_testVariant=cx_2&cx_artPos=1#cxrecs_s
[2:42 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. Fortunate that our Leadership succession is orderly and well planned - by selfless successive Leaders.
2. Next is to get and win the mandate from the people.
3. The virus epidemic comes untimely.
4. But it is also a good test on how the incoming leadership weather this crisis and win over the confidence of the people.
5. The outcome of the test look promising.
[3:08 PM, 2/25/2020] KS Foong:
No matter what, i think the leadership transition at our end is much better managed. Of course, at the moment, there r distraction occurs here and there. To me, i m very clear on what i want.
[4:13 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Because our Leadership succession is orderly and well-planned, we don't need to create internal crisis.
(2) When a leadership succession is not plan, there is a tendency to create an internal crisis to stay in power.
(3) And when it still did not resolve the root cause of the dispute, it will create an external crisis as distraction to stay in power.
(4) We need to watch our back not to be picked as object for distraction.
[4:32 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. All those issues that submerged from public radar eg. water, territorial boundary, air spaces etc may resurface again.
2. Naval standoff possibilities cannot be discounted.
3. We need to be ready while watching what is unfolding.
[4:46 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-hopes-leaders-in-malaysia-will-come-to-an-agreement-soon-says-dpm-heng
[4:48 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/republic-of-singapore-navy-to-get-new-chief-from-march
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Because our Leadership succession is orderly and well-planned, we don't need to create internal crisis.
(2) When a leadership succession is not plan, there is a tendency to create an internal crisis to stay in power.
(3) And when it still did not resolve the root cause of the dispute, it will create an external crisis as distraction to stay in power.
(4) We need to watch our back not to be picked as object for distraction.
[4:16 PM, 2/25/2020] Droll:
Leadership succession can be orderly and well-planned if it is within the control of those that want to stay in power. That's why in MY the transition was chaotic. There was a fight for power between different groups.
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
Leadership succession can be orderly and well-planned if it is within the control of those that want to stay in power. That's why in MY the transition was chaotic. There was a fight for power between different groups.
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. All those issues that submerged from public radar eg. water, territorial boundary, air spaces etc may resurface again.
2. Naval standoff possibilities cannot be discounted.
3. We need to be ready while watching what is unfolding.
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Alvin:
Sg will never take our sovereignty for granted so we will not "discount" anything
[5:06 PM, 2/25/2020] Alvin:
But knowing Tun M, he will stir up issues with us again if he gets into power in the next GE
------
ST Quote :- [3 PM 25 Feb 2020]
The Singapore Government is monitoring political developments across the Causeway closely, and it will respect the decision of the Malaysian leaders and work with the government of the day, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat said on Tuesday (Feb 25).
Mr Heng was responding to a question from reporters on developments in Malaysia, following a visit to Parkroyal on Kitchener Road Hotel, and he noted that the situation in Malaysia was evolving rapidly.
"It is a domestic matter, and I hope that the various parties will come to some agreement expeditiously," he added.
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-hopes-leaders-in-malaysia-will-come-to-an-agreement-soon-says-dpm-heng
REACH Post
[8:15 PM, 2/24/2020] : ---
(1) With sudden political uncertainty unravelling from our neighbor --- we have to be increasingly alert - and watch out for any spillover development if it happen.
(2) The next thing we don't want is another naval standoff that caught us by surprise - in the midst of defending ourselves from the virus threat.
---
[2:42 PM, 2/25/2020] :
1. Fortunate that our Leadership succession is orderly and well planned - by selfless successive Leaders.
2. Next is to get and win the mandate from the people.
3. The virus epidemic comes untimely.
4. But it is also a good test on how the incoming leadership weather this crisis and win over the confidence of the people.
5. The outcome of the test look promising.
[4:13 PM, 2/25/2020] :
(1) Because our Leadership succession is orderly and well-planned, we don't need to create internal crisis.
(2) When a leadership succession is not plan, there is a tendency to create an internal crisis to stay in power.
(3) And when it still did not resolve the root cause of the dispute, it will create an external crisis as distraction to stay in power.
(4) We need to watch our back not to be picked as object for distraction.
ST Quote :- [3 PM 25 Feb 2020]
In his remarks to reporters, Mr Heng noted that Malaysia is Singapore's closest neighbour and both countries have many joint projects in the works. These include the Singapore-Johor Baru Rapid Transit System and the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail. The two countries have also set up a joint working group to step up cooperation in tackling the Covid-19 outbreak.
"We will respect the decision of the Malaysian leaders, and we will work with the government of the day," he said of ongoing developments in Malaysia
"I very much hope that we can continue our cooperation quickly. We will work with the government of the day to advance the many areas of bilateral cooperation that we have embarked on, and particularly in dealing with the Covid-19 outbreak," he added.
Mr Heng, who is also Finance Minister, also hoped both neighbours can work together in dealing with the important changes going on in the global economy, to strengthen their economies.
"There are many areas of cooperation between Malaysia and Singapore that we can pursue, that we must pursue to strengthen one another, as well as to to work together in Asean to maintain the unity and centrality of Asean," he added.
REACH Post
[4:32 PM, 2/25/2020]
1. All those issues that submerged from public radar eg. water, territorial boundary, air spaces etc may resurface again.
2. Naval standoff possibilities cannot be discounted.
3. We need to be ready while watching what is unfolding.
----
[5:48 PM, 2/25/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Good that our DPM take a proactive approach to reach out to our neighbor first rather than reacting after it come across to our shore.
---
[10:42 AM, 2/26/2020] Ricky Lim:
CNA Quote:- 25 Feb 2020 10:14PM (Updated: 25 Feb 2020 10:20PM)
DORSCON level could be lowered if COVID-19 spreads widely worldwide: Gan Kim Yong
If there is widespread transmission around the world, Minister Lawreence Wong said "that might well be the scenario where the virus becomes embedded in the human population".
"And we have to learn how to live with it, take the necessary precautions," he added.
"Hopefully (there might be) some medication that can be promising by then. But at the same time, we all have to keep calm and carry on with life, but just with appropriate precautions."
Reach posting:-
[12:05 PM, 2/22/2020] :
Scenarios in which this virus epidemic may stop:-
1. virus die by itself - due to change in weather.
2. Human develop stronger immunity with more mild infection and anti-body.
3. Standard treatment is established that can cure the virus. People has less fear and resume normal lives despite virus still spreading.
4. Vaccine found and effective in curbing virus.
[11:33 AM, 2/24/2020] :
(3) The best situation is when weather change and the virus subside and go off by its own.
(4) The worst situation is that it remain like any seasonal flu, and humans need to develop vaccines, cure and build up our immune system to tackle such virus.
(2) To resume normalcy, and resume Economy vibrancy:-
a. Psychological resiliency to overcome fear and anxiety.
b. Work, live and resume lives normally.
c. Take common sense approach - see doctor if unwell, take precaution as and when needed without the need to over-react
d. Take initiatives to resume trade, business, shop, investment and take necessary precaution in travelling.
---
[12:43 PM, 2/26/2020] Ricky Lim:
Coronavirus: Singapore, Malaysia agree on areas of cooperation at first meeting of joint working group
12.30 PM 26 Feb 2020
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/coronavirus-singapore-malaysia-agree-on-areas-of-cooperation-at-first-meeting-of-joint?cx_testId=20&cx_testVariant=cx_2&cx_artPos=1#cxrecs_s
---
[1:49 PM, 2/26/2020] Ricky Lim:
a. Most pandemic are originate from animal sources - and jump to Human.
(1) 1918 Spanish flu 1957 Asian flu 1968–1969 Hong Kong 2009 swine, Seasonal flu, Russian flu
Flus - originate from pigs, chickens and ducks
(2) SARs - originate from cat-like mammals called civets. als discovered large reservoirs of a SARS-like virus in Chinese horseshoe bats.
(3) MERs - originate from - MERS-CoV may have circulated in bat populations for a long period of time before spreading to camels by the mid 1990s. The viruses appear to have spread from camels to humans.
(4) Ebola - originate from - Although it is not entirely clear how Ebola initially spreads from animals to humans, the spread is believed to involve direct contact with an infected wild animal or fruit bat. Besides bats, other wild animals sometimes infected with EBOV include several monkey species, chimpanzees, gorillas, baboons, and duikers.
(5) HIV - originate from - non-human primates in Central and West Africa.
b. And studying the history of why pandemic keep hitting Human race?
Because Humans only react and respond - when flu epidemic become an emergency that take a toll on Human health.
c. Humans has never in the life of History - take a proactive approach to tackle epidemic --- but only take a reactive approach to pandemic eg.
- Panic, Fear, Despair
- take a big toll on Economy
- scramble to adopt containment and isolation approach
- scramble to develop vaccines and cure --- while the pandemic take a toll on the Human health - and put tremendous strain on the each Countries medical resources and medical personnel.
d. When a pandemic finally blow over, Humans will resume business as usual - but fail to look at how to "eradicate or prevent" pandemic at its source.
e. If animals - wild or domesticated animals are the source of pandemic - that will take a heavy toll on Human's health, Economy and that disrupt the lives of Humans --- shouldn't a more holistic solutions be prescribed by World Bodies to "nip the source at the bud"?
f. Finding and developing vaccines and standard cures --- to tackle this Covid-19 is necessary to stop its spread and prevent it from causing further harm to Humans.
g. But when this whole Covid-19 saga is over --- should Humans through World Bodies take a serious look with deep insight = to come out with a real solution to prevent future pandemic from even arising?
h. Looking for replacement of human food sources - by not slaughtering wild animals, and even domesticated animals could be the "real solution" to resolve future epidemic.
i. Re-focusing Human protein-based foods such as cell-culture, tissue re-engineering meat (rather than slaughtering live animals), vegan-based foods, vegetarians, beyond meat etc (minus insects protein food) --- could be the real solution, a proactive approach to prevent future epidemic.
j. Scrambling to put isolation, containment, travel restriction; scrambling to develop new vaccines and cure when pandemic breakout; scrambling to push out Budget to alleviate Economic fallout - are not "Proactive approach" but "Reactive approach" to stop pandemic --- because it does not solve the "root cause" of future pandemic.
---
[10:34 AM, 2/27/2020] REACH: 📢📢 New Topic 📢📢
Have you been following the Budget debate? What do you think of the new job council to match retrenched PMEs and the Call for speedier, extensive aid for firms, staff and the vulnerable?
Call for speedier, extensive aid for firms, staff and the vulnerable
https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/call-for-speedier-extensive-aid-for-firms-staff-and-the-vulnerable
[11:29 AM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. Very happy to see NTUC setting up a job security council - that bring in 4,000 companies to paricipate and match retrenched or disrupted PMETs with available jobs.
(2) This is the most timely, effective and direct help for PMETs especially the 40 and 50s PMETs.
(3) This will reduce the time for PMETs to stay unemployed and looking for jobs, while business who need workers will not have to wait longer to find workers.
(4) However, i will like to suggest that it should also cover PMETs up to 67 years old who have still not retired but are willing and healthy to work.
(5) The NTUC chief do a good job on this.
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] :
A proactive Job council would identify openings that companies have, skill shortages in resources, training centres to up/cross train and them match people to places. Maybe this is what they already do?
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : Will this kill private placement companies?
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : Is it then make workers not within the 4000 companies more difficult to look for job?
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : You mean like recruitment companies?
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : Adjustment will be made along way
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] :
Quite frankly, what I am suggesting has a NOW and FUTURE agenda. For now, match Demand to Supply in labour. I would expect the scope to cover direct labour, technicians, mechanics, supervisory, clerical (although dying trade), material handling, drivers, managerial,finasnce and accounting etc but not specialized jobs and his higher executive jobs. The specialized jobs snd higher executive jobs can be handled by job agencies and head hunters. What I am suggesting is like a Job Street except it matches PEOPLE/SKILLS to REQUIREMENTS and done through the computer using AI. Employers who receive people to interview and hire pay a stipend. With this, there is no excuse from either people or employers. Employers say "cant find the right people", and peole say "cant get an interview". But for FUTURE, what I suggest is COUNCIL made up of people from industry, employer groups, unions, EBD, various ITEs, Poly and Universities to define the FUTURE JOBS of Singapore and to make sure we educate and train our people for the future jobs. Dont be like our northern neighbour. They have no plan. Just send anyone to Universities and end up with a huge pool of people not suitable, not qualified for the jobs and having the Govt Civil Service hire them as a rescue and bloating the Civil Service. We need to be efficient to handle our Human Resources.
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : Will ntuc pay stipend and will this undercut current employment agencies!?
[12:45 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Frankly, I don't believe this Job Security Council intend to replace :-
- Organisation's recruitment strategies and approach - where some may still continue to use their own headhunter, private job agencies, participate in career fair, direct recruitment in IHLs, offer scholarship, bursaries --- to look for their "talents".
- Private job recruitment agencies
- Career Fairs organise by other Companies or even this 4,000 companies
(2) Organisation outside this 4,000 may also join their Job Security Council - if they can't find the right candidates within their own efforts.
(3) The Job Security Council make a good effort to rope in these 4,000 companies - and should re-double efforts to rope in more --- so that this Council become a credible human resource pool for workers to seek jobs and for organisation to source for right candidates.
[12:46 PM, 2/27/2020] +65 9663 9432:
Can there be central database Singaporeans can submit their resumes to, which is mandatory for employers to interview from before they are allowed to higher a foreigner with a strong reason why no Singaporean is suitable for the job?
[12:47 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
WDA job portal is meant for this purpose.
[12:47 PM, 2/27/2020] : Uhhh.... it wouldn't that make Singaporeans lazy? Who is going to maintain it? The ownership of job finding?
[12:49 PM, 2/27/2020] : Do employers actually use it to find locals before getting foreign talent?
[12:50 PM, 2/27/2020] : You mean portals like jobsbank????
[12:51 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
Thought that this is required b4 they apply for permit?
[12:51 PM, 2/27/2020] : Have to lahs. Need post for 14 days
[12:52 PM, 2/27/2020] : Den can use the jobs bank id to apply for work passes
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : Good point
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : No idea
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : I be frank
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : We do post
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : BUT
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : Ya lahs. You all know
[12:54 PM, 2/27/2020] : Unless the ft is already working in singapore and has a work pass from another company.
That way, companies can hire them for the most in demand and post those jobs foreigners don't want in the portal.: 🤭
[1:03 PM, 2/27/2020] : Loopholes must be plugged
[1:04 PM, 2/27/2020] : Companies have to justify why they are hiring a foreigner over a Singaporean. If cant justify then hard to get the EP.
[1:04 PM, 2/27/2020] : Yes. Need to justify
[1:04 PM, 2/27/2020] : But usually easy lahs
[1:05 PM, 2/27/2020] : No reason a company would bring in foreigner, which is expensive and complicated over a Singaporean.
[1:06 PM, 2/27/2020] : Assuming they have broadly the same skillset
---
[1:07 PM, 2/27/2020] : Or maybe the typical Singaporean simple asks for too much and that is why companies rather turn to FT?
[1:07 PM, 2/27/2020] : Usually just need to post in Jobsbank for a period of time
[1:07 PM, 2/27/2020] : I'm hoping we introduce the Singapore education system as a Reach topic at some point, which seems quite relevant to the employment topic...
[1:07 PM, 2/27/2020] : Few Singaporean go to jobsbank one
[1:08 PM, 2/27/2020] : In the meantime I'll say the education system is very old fashioned and not good for a modern international innovative county Singapore wants to be.
[1:08 PM, 2/27/2020] : And the overall culture needed to inculcate Singaporeans to be socially responsible in everything we do!
[1:09 PM, 2/27/2020] : 👍
[1:09 PM, 2/27/2020] : Sad to say we here in G2 are only a minority but what we have other than being sad about it is to do something about it!
[1:23 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) The PMETs emploiyment and mismatch problem, I believe are due to a few reasons :-
a. Singaporeans 40, 50 and 60s are older with many years of working experience - has been reaping higher salaries - and become a bigger cost to organisations.
Hence organisations who want to cut cost will naturally look at 40, 50 and 60s to cut and replace them with younger workers who are less costly, newer skills and more agile --- depite the older workers are more experience, more reliable.
These younger workers can be Singaporeans or foreigners.
b. Foriegn workers are also usually younger, less costly and more agile.
Foreigners are less likely to bargain or demand more - as they are in foreign land - and perceived to be "easier to control and manage".
Moreover, they are on contract and can change when contract due - it organisation want a change of their workers.
c. Singaporeans older workers must thus be adaptable, to learn new skillsets that is valuable to the Organisations, must be ready to get redeployment within and even outside the organisatoin (that is why Job Security Council is a good initiative) - especially when disruptive tech hits the organisation and the workers.
d. Legislations to help Singaporeans help, but sometimes circumstances do change that impact both organisations and workers --- thus Singaporean workers must be adaptable to transform, adapt and change --- ie. must be agile and able to transform. Singaporeans who are of such quality - will normally able to ride out of any job changes or work transformed = and emerge better.
[1:30 PM, 2/27/2020] : What does snef/various chambers of commerce/some have to say!?
[1:30 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
Business will look at their profit and loss.
And how to cut cost.
--
[1:49 PM, 2/26/2020] Ricky Lim:
a. Most pandemic are originate from animal sources - and jump to Human.
(1) 1918 Spanish flu 1957 Asian flu 1968–1969 Hong Kong 2009 swine, Seasonal flu, Russian flu
Flus - originate from pigs, chickens and ducks
(2) SARs - originate from cat-like mammals called civets. als discovered large reservoirs of a SARS-like virus in Chinese horseshoe bats.
(3) MERs - originate from - MERS-CoV may have circulated in bat populations for a long period of time before spreading to camels by the mid 1990s. The viruses appear to have spread from camels to humans.
(4) Ebola - originate from - Although it is not entirely clear how Ebola initially spreads from animals to humans, the spread is believed to involve direct contact with an infected wild animal or fruit bat. Besides bats, other wild animals sometimes infected with EBOV include several monkey species, chimpanzees, gorillas, baboons, and duikers.
(5) HIV - originate from - non-human primates in Central and West Africa.
b. And studying the history of why pandemic keep hitting Human race?
Because Humans only react and respond - when flu epidemic become an emergency that take a toll on Human health.
c. Humans has never in the life of History - take a proactive approach to tackle epidemic --- but only take a reactive approach to pandemic eg.
- Panic, Fear, Despair
- take a big toll on Economy
- scramble to adopt containment and isolation approach
- scramble to develop vaccines and cure --- while the pandemic take a toll on the Human health - and put tremendous strain on the each Countries medical resources and medical personnel.
d. When a pandemic finally blow over, Humans will resume business as usual - but fail to look at how to "eradicate or prevent" pandemic at its source.
e. If animals - wild or domesticated animals are the source of pandemic - that will take a heavy toll on Human's health, Economy and that disrupt the lives of Humans --- shouldn't a more holistic solutions be prescribed by World Bodies to "nip the source at the bud"?
f. Finding and developing vaccines and standard cures --- to tackle this Covid-19 is necessary to stop its spread and prevent it from causing further harm to Humans.
g. But when this whole Covid-19 saga is over --- should Humans through World Bodies take a serious look with deep insight = to come out with a real solution to prevent future pandemic from even arising?
h. Looking for replacement of human food sources - by not slaughtering wild animals, and even domesticated animals could be the "real solution" to resolve future epidemic.
i. Re-focusing Human protein-based foods such as cell-culture, tissue re-engineering meat (rather than slaughtering live animals), vegan-based foods, vegetarians, beyond meat etc (minus insects protein food) --- could be the real solution, a proactive approach to prevent future epidemic.
j. Scrambling to put isolation, containment, travel restriction; scrambling to develop new vaccines and cure when pandemic breakout; scrambling to push out Budget to alleviate Economic fallout - are not "Proactive approach" but "Reactive approach" to stop pandemic --- because it does not solve the "root cause" of future pandemic.
---
[10:34 AM, 2/27/2020] REACH: 📢📢 New Topic 📢📢
Have you been following the Budget debate? What do you think of the new job council to match retrenched PMEs and the Call for speedier, extensive aid for firms, staff and the vulnerable?
Call for speedier, extensive aid for firms, staff and the vulnerable
https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/call-for-speedier-extensive-aid-for-firms-staff-and-the-vulnerable
[11:29 AM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. Very happy to see NTUC setting up a job security council - that bring in 4,000 companies to paricipate and match retrenched or disrupted PMETs with available jobs.
(2) This is the most timely, effective and direct help for PMETs especially the 40 and 50s PMETs.
(3) This will reduce the time for PMETs to stay unemployed and looking for jobs, while business who need workers will not have to wait longer to find workers.
(4) However, i will like to suggest that it should also cover PMETs up to 67 years old who have still not retired but are willing and healthy to work.
(5) The NTUC chief do a good job on this.
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] :
A proactive Job council would identify openings that companies have, skill shortages in resources, training centres to up/cross train and them match people to places. Maybe this is what they already do?
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : Will this kill private placement companies?
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : Is it then make workers not within the 4000 companies more difficult to look for job?
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : You mean like recruitment companies?
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : Adjustment will be made along way
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] :
Quite frankly, what I am suggesting has a NOW and FUTURE agenda. For now, match Demand to Supply in labour. I would expect the scope to cover direct labour, technicians, mechanics, supervisory, clerical (although dying trade), material handling, drivers, managerial,finasnce and accounting etc but not specialized jobs and his higher executive jobs. The specialized jobs snd higher executive jobs can be handled by job agencies and head hunters. What I am suggesting is like a Job Street except it matches PEOPLE/SKILLS to REQUIREMENTS and done through the computer using AI. Employers who receive people to interview and hire pay a stipend. With this, there is no excuse from either people or employers. Employers say "cant find the right people", and peole say "cant get an interview". But for FUTURE, what I suggest is COUNCIL made up of people from industry, employer groups, unions, EBD, various ITEs, Poly and Universities to define the FUTURE JOBS of Singapore and to make sure we educate and train our people for the future jobs. Dont be like our northern neighbour. They have no plan. Just send anyone to Universities and end up with a huge pool of people not suitable, not qualified for the jobs and having the Govt Civil Service hire them as a rescue and bloating the Civil Service. We need to be efficient to handle our Human Resources.
[12:36 PM, 2/27/2020] : Will ntuc pay stipend and will this undercut current employment agencies!?
[12:45 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Frankly, I don't believe this Job Security Council intend to replace :-
- Organisation's recruitment strategies and approach - where some may still continue to use their own headhunter, private job agencies, participate in career fair, direct recruitment in IHLs, offer scholarship, bursaries --- to look for their "talents".
- Private job recruitment agencies
- Career Fairs organise by other Companies or even this 4,000 companies
(2) Organisation outside this 4,000 may also join their Job Security Council - if they can't find the right candidates within their own efforts.
(3) The Job Security Council make a good effort to rope in these 4,000 companies - and should re-double efforts to rope in more --- so that this Council become a credible human resource pool for workers to seek jobs and for organisation to source for right candidates.
[12:46 PM, 2/27/2020] +65 9663 9432:
Can there be central database Singaporeans can submit their resumes to, which is mandatory for employers to interview from before they are allowed to higher a foreigner with a strong reason why no Singaporean is suitable for the job?
[12:47 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
WDA job portal is meant for this purpose.
[12:47 PM, 2/27/2020] : Uhhh.... it wouldn't that make Singaporeans lazy? Who is going to maintain it? The ownership of job finding?
[12:49 PM, 2/27/2020] : Do employers actually use it to find locals before getting foreign talent?
[12:50 PM, 2/27/2020] : You mean portals like jobsbank????
[12:51 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
Thought that this is required b4 they apply for permit?
[12:51 PM, 2/27/2020] : Have to lahs. Need post for 14 days
[12:52 PM, 2/27/2020] : Den can use the jobs bank id to apply for work passes
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : Good point
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : No idea
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : I be frank
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : We do post
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : BUT
[12:53 PM, 2/27/2020] : Ya lahs. You all know
[12:54 PM, 2/27/2020] : Unless the ft is already working in singapore and has a work pass from another company.
That way, companies can hire them for the most in demand and post those jobs foreigners don't want in the portal.: 🤭
[1:03 PM, 2/27/2020] : Loopholes must be plugged
[1:04 PM, 2/27/2020] : Companies have to justify why they are hiring a foreigner over a Singaporean. If cant justify then hard to get the EP.
[1:04 PM, 2/27/2020] : Yes. Need to justify
[1:04 PM, 2/27/2020] : But usually easy lahs
[1:05 PM, 2/27/2020] : No reason a company would bring in foreigner, which is expensive and complicated over a Singaporean.
[1:06 PM, 2/27/2020] : Assuming they have broadly the same skillset
---
[1:07 PM, 2/27/2020] : Or maybe the typical Singaporean simple asks for too much and that is why companies rather turn to FT?
[1:07 PM, 2/27/2020] : Usually just need to post in Jobsbank for a period of time
[1:07 PM, 2/27/2020] : I'm hoping we introduce the Singapore education system as a Reach topic at some point, which seems quite relevant to the employment topic...
[1:07 PM, 2/27/2020] : Few Singaporean go to jobsbank one
[1:08 PM, 2/27/2020] : In the meantime I'll say the education system is very old fashioned and not good for a modern international innovative county Singapore wants to be.
[1:08 PM, 2/27/2020] : And the overall culture needed to inculcate Singaporeans to be socially responsible in everything we do!
[1:09 PM, 2/27/2020] : 👍
[1:09 PM, 2/27/2020] : Sad to say we here in G2 are only a minority but what we have other than being sad about it is to do something about it!
[1:23 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) The PMETs emploiyment and mismatch problem, I believe are due to a few reasons :-
a. Singaporeans 40, 50 and 60s are older with many years of working experience - has been reaping higher salaries - and become a bigger cost to organisations.
Hence organisations who want to cut cost will naturally look at 40, 50 and 60s to cut and replace them with younger workers who are less costly, newer skills and more agile --- depite the older workers are more experience, more reliable.
These younger workers can be Singaporeans or foreigners.
b. Foriegn workers are also usually younger, less costly and more agile.
Foreigners are less likely to bargain or demand more - as they are in foreign land - and perceived to be "easier to control and manage".
Moreover, they are on contract and can change when contract due - it organisation want a change of their workers.
c. Singaporeans older workers must thus be adaptable, to learn new skillsets that is valuable to the Organisations, must be ready to get redeployment within and even outside the organisatoin (that is why Job Security Council is a good initiative) - especially when disruptive tech hits the organisation and the workers.
d. Legislations to help Singaporeans help, but sometimes circumstances do change that impact both organisations and workers --- thus Singaporean workers must be adaptable to transform, adapt and change --- ie. must be agile and able to transform. Singaporeans who are of such quality - will normally able to ride out of any job changes or work transformed = and emerge better.
[1:30 PM, 2/27/2020] : What does snef/various chambers of commerce/some have to say!?
[1:30 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
Business will look at their profit and loss.
And how to cut cost.
--
[1:32 PM, 2/27/2020] : I was in recruitment before I know what you mean lol
[1:32 PM, 2/27/2020] : 🤭
[1:40 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
d. Legislations to help Singaporeans help, but sometimes circumstances do change that impact both organisations and workers --- thus Singaporean workers must be adaptable to transform, adapt and change --- ie. must be agile and able to transform.
Singaporeans who are of such quality - will normally able to ride out of any job changes or work transformed = and emerge better.
The above statement is true - "Because I have come across few older PMETs who come out from it --- and do better - in terms of job satisfaction and income.
---
[1:32 PM, 2/27/2020] : 🤭
[1:40 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
d. Legislations to help Singaporeans help, but sometimes circumstances do change that impact both organisations and workers --- thus Singaporean workers must be adaptable to transform, adapt and change --- ie. must be agile and able to transform.
Singaporeans who are of such quality - will normally able to ride out of any job changes or work transformed = and emerge better.
The above statement is true - "Because I have come across few older PMETs who come out from it --- and do better - in terms of job satisfaction and income.
---
[1:59 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
Of course i have also come across some older Singaporeans and even some younger ones who tried very hard - but no luck yet.
The Job Security Council comes in timely.
Singaporeans who want to look for jobs must get the right help.
Signing up for e2i and NTUC helps.
Of course if the registration process by e2i and NTUC are streamlined and simplify - it will help Singaporeans better.
---
[2:10 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim: ---
(1) Also suggest that Singaporeans who want to protect and cushion their sons and daughters - from future "job displacement" when reach 40, 50 and 60s --- to buy "legacy insurance" to build up their wealth --- instead of spending their money frivolously on unnecessary luxury items.
Saving and investing wisely is a virtue (just like our Sovereign Funds investment that earn the NIRC and grow our National Reserves).
(2) When mid-career crisis hit - our sons and daughters will have a good sum of money comes 40s, 50s and 60s to tie over sudden loss of jobs - due to displacement.
--
[5:45 PM, 2/27/2020] Ron: Good suggestion
---
[6:24 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
Because it will affect anyone regardless of :-
1. workers
2. boss
3. managers
4. CEOs
5. white collars
6. blue collars
7. PMETs
8. non-PMETs
9. even Politicians
A "legacy imsurance" will protect your descendants - from any type of job disruption or business disruption.
---
[6:28 PM, 2/27/2020] : Cost, implementation and returns!?
[6:31 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
Check with any insurance companies.
NTUC Income got many good Saving Plans.
---
[6:31 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
Check with any insurance companies.
NTUC Income got many good Saving Plans.
---
[7:19 PM, 2/27/2020] : https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/commentary/covid-19-coronavirus-scenarios-get-worse-mitigation-pandemic-12471898
[7:22 PM, 2/27/2020] +65 9694 8748: "SCENARIO 3: THE MOTHER OF PANDEMICS
The third scenario outlines developments after new foci outside China keep growing and deaths begin to mount. Governments switch from trying to contain to trying to mitigate the new pandemic.
It becomes clear that the analogies to seasonal influenza were wrong, there are fewer mild cases than we thought, and a substantial fraction of infections need to be hospitalised.
Singapore moves to DORSCON Red, and normal life grinds to a halt. Schools and workplaces are closed, a curfew is imposed, and field hospitals are established to take the overflow from the hospitals.
After several months, with thousands dead in Singapore, and millions worldwide, the number of cases begins to drop.
By the end of the outbreak, a shell-shocked world starts to pull itself together and implement reforms to better detect and respond to outbreaks, vowing this will never happen again."
[7:24 PM, 2/27/2020] Blue White Flag Guy:
This will happen again and all we can do is learn now before it's actually too late when newer strains of viruses emerge straight outta nowhere
[7:28 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
a. Most pandemic are originate from animal sources - and jump to Human.
(1) 1918 Spanish flu 1957 Asian flu 1968–1969 Hong Kong 2009 swine, Seasonal flu, Russian flu
Flus - originate from pigs, chickens and ducks
(2) SARs - originate from cat-like mammals called civets. als discovered large reservoirs of a SARS-like virus in Chinese horseshoe bats.
(3) MERs - originate from - MERS-CoV may have circulated in bat populations for a long period of time before spreading to camels by the mid 1990s. The viruses appear to have spread from camels to humans.
(4) Ebola - originate from - Although it is not entirely clear how Ebola initially spreads from animals to humans, the spread is believed to involve direct contact with an infected wild animal or fruit bat. Besides bats, other wild animals sometimes infected with EBOV include several monkey species, chimpanzees, gorillas, baboons, and duikers.
(5) HIV - originate from - non-human primates in Central and West Africa.
b. And studying the history of why pandemic keep hitting Human race?
Because Humans only react and respond - when flu epidemic become an emergency that take a toll on Human health.
c. Humans has never in the life of History - take a proactive approach to tackle epidemic --- but only take a reactive approach to pandemic eg.
- Panic, Fear, Despair
- take a big toll on Economy
- scramble to adopt containment and isolation approach
- scramble to develop vaccines and cure --- while the pandemic take a toll on the Human health - and put tremendous strain on the each Countries medical resources and medical personnel.
d. When a pandemic finally blow over, Humans will resume business as usual - but fail to look at how to "eradicate or prevent" pandemic at its source.
e. If animals - wild or domesticated animals are the source of pandemic - that will take a heavy toll on Human's health, Economy and that disrupt the lives of Humans --- shouldn't a more holistic solutions be prescribed by World Bodies to "nip the source at the bud"?
f. Finding and developing vaccines and standard cures --- to tackle this Covid-19 is necessary to stop its spread and prevent it from causing further harm to Humans.
g. But when this whole Covid-19 saga is over --- should Humans through World Bodies take a serious look with deep insight = to come out with a real solution to prevent future pandemic from even arising?
h. Looking for replacement of human food sources - by not slaughtering wild animals, and even domesticated animals could be the "real solution" to resolve future epidemic.
i. Re-focusing Human protein-based foods such as cell-culture, tissue re-engineering meat (rather than slaughtering live animals), vegan-based foods, vegetarians, beyond meat etc (minus insects protein food) --- could be the real solution, a proactive approach to prevent future epidemic.
j. Scrambling to put isolation, containment, travel restriction; scrambling to develop new vaccines and cure when pandemic breakout; scrambling to push out Budget to alleviate Economic fallout - are not "Proactive approach" but "Reactive approach" to stop pandemic --- because it does not solve the "root cause" of future pandemic.
[7:33 PM, 2/27/2020] : From an ex colleague :
My fren was discharged yesterday after 12 days stint @SGH.
Below are her symptoms of Covit 19:
1. Very Dry parch throat... no amount water able to quench the dryness
2. Silence Cough n phlegmless... visually no cough
3. Water, foods start to taste bland
4. No appetite for anything
5. High fever.
Initially no Medicine given. Rely on immune system to heal. When white patch starts to show on X Ray... HIV medicine was prescribed to aid the healing process.
Hope this help us understand the virus better and reduce fear.
[7:35 PM, 2/27/2020] : Any sneezing or running nose?
---
[8:33 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Now we can only 走一步，看一步。(Take one step at a time).
(2) 要知前世因，今生受者是。
要知后世果，今生作者是。
Want to know why we reap such crisis today - because is what Human do previously.
Want to know whether we will have future pandemic crisis - is what we will be doing to prevent future crisis.
--
--
[8:39 PM, 2/27/2020] Kelvin Law:
How to prevent future crisis when the crisis originates beyond our shores? It is not about preventing, but managing and mitigating. Singapore is a small country on the globe. While we do not have natural disasters, we are not buffeted against events in other countries.
[8:57 PM, 2/27/2020] Dan:
I have been reading this article again and again, picturing the 3 scenarios in my head. Even the author tried to lighten the whole mood, by trivialising the number of deaths around the world, or the sale of toilet rolls on carousell, I have to admit, I'm scared.
[8:57 PM, 2/27/2020] Kelvin Law:
Look at it another way: Mother Nature will have to find one way or another to control population.
[8:58 PM, 2/27/2020] Kelvin Law:
Whether is it true nature, or the stupidity of Man.
[9:18 PM, 2/27/2020] Ricky Lim:
(1) Mundane man let the others transform us unwholesomely.
(2) Wise man transform the World wholesomely.
---\
[4:36 PM, 2/28/2020] Ricky Lim:
WP proposal to use reserve will in the long term deplete Singapore reserves - and result in Singaporeans having to pay more tax.
[4:38 PM, 2/28/2020] Rama:
WP lacks foresight but short term solutions
[4:38 PM, 2/28/2020] Ricky Lim:
This show that this WP MP lack fiscal discipline but take the easy way out.
[4:39 PM, 2/28/2020] Rama:
Even if our reserves are sgd one trillion, foolish to give hand out like lottery winnings
[4:39 PM, 2/28/2020] Ricky Lim:
yes. i agree with you.
[4:39 PM, 2/28/2020] Blue White Flag Guy:
Yup agree cannot anyw spend mah
[4:41 PM, 2/28/2020] Ricky Lim:
Singapore has no natural reserve.
Our financial reserves and human talent are our only reserves.
But yet this WP MP is trying to harm our reserves.
[5:00 PM, 2/28/2020] Jonathan:
Hve the location
[5:00 PM, 2/28/2020] Jonathan:
Strategic
[5:00 PM, 2/28/2020] Ricky Lim:
Singapore strategic location is not permanent.
1. Arctic route that cut sea route by 1 month.
2. One belt one road have many alternative routes.
[5:02 PM, 2/28/2020] Rama: Ok
[5:02 PM, 2/28/2020] Rama:
If the kra canal project in north of Thailand ever starts even Tues mega port will not last long.
[5:02 PM, 2/28/2020] Blue white Flag Guy:
Kra Canal already a lot of problems at its root
Especially how it splits Thailand into Thailand and not-really Thailand
[5:02 PM, 2/28/2020] Ricky Lim:
Our human talent and financial reserves are required to create virtual routes .... in order to pull trade back to our physical sea routes and cement out strategic location.
Now this WP MP is trying to chip our reserves away.
[5:05 PM, 2/28/2020] Rama:
Agree
[5:05 PM, 2/28/2020] Ricky Lim:
1. Kra canal is one threat but not the major one - as it cut less than 1 or 2 weeks away.
2. Singapore ports are much more competitive with full blown services couple with our financial hub.
[5:06 PM, 2/28/2020] Blue white Flag Guy:
Kra Canal would be a reality if it cuts directly across the border between Malaysia and Thailand but since they're not so bright, might as well we take advantage of the situation
[5:06 PM, 2/28/2020] Rama:
Believe our current government has the same foresight as our first generation leaders in anticipating changes.
[5:13 PM, 2/28/2020] Ricky Lim:
If we don't have financial clout to invest and trade in strategic Countries like China, ASEAN, Asia Pac etc.
Our strategic port location will be nullified.
Now this WP MP say used reserve freely. He is killing Singapore in the long run.
[6:27 PM, 2/28/2020] Rama:
Leave him to pasture coming election---
