Babe Blog - Insights on News Events: May 2026

REACH (Telegram) 139 - Share with us whether the Government’s initiatives effectively address your concerns over AI and rising costs caused by the Middle East conflict.

(SK)

04 May 2026 (10am - 7pm)

REACH (Telegram)

[4/5/2026 9:50 am] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

Welcome Back! 😊

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Megan 😊

[4/5/2026 10:02 am] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

During the annual May Day Rally on May 1, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong addressed two major challenges that Singapore is facing - the impact of AI and global instability from the Middle East conflict.

💬 Share with us whether the Government’s initiatives effectively address your concerns over AI and rising costs caused by the Middle East conflict.

📌 AI: Protecting Workers in the AI Era

To support workers through the AI shift and global economic instability, the Government will be (1) merging WSG and SSG to bring skills training and job matching closer together, (2) expanding Company Training Committees where company’s management and unions work together to map out future skills and training for every worker and (3) forming a Tripartite Jobs Council to support workers and businesses for the AI transition.

📌 Middle East conflict: Support for Singaporeans

To tackle rising costs, the Government has set aside $1 billion to provide direct relief via CDC vouchers, U-Save rebates, cash payouts, cash relief for platform workers and extending Energy Efficiency Grants to March 2028. Besides relief measures, the Government is working closely with like-minded countries to strengthen supply chain resilience and provide mutual support, securing supply lines for energy and other essential goods.

👉 CNA: https://tinyurl.com/3b9pb7bn

👉 CNA: https://tinyurl.com/3w7pn42t

👉 ST: https://tinyurl.com/2vmazmp9

👉 ST: https://tinyurl.com/2y9yjvev

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[4/5/2026 10:29 am] Jun Ming: Time to learn Ai is one concern for me

[4/5/2026 10:42 am] 365: China has recently ruled against a company for dismissing an employee after citing AI adoption as the reason. Employers are expected to retrain, reasons my reassign, or fairly compensate workers rather than shift AI risks to them.

Will Singapore adopt a similar protective stance? Will would they rather leave it to the workers to catch up on their own, citing competitiveness as a reason?

It's interesting to hear the first instance of an employee being protected against AI replacement. No doubt that there will be loopholes to go about, but at least their stance will deter and help to protect some workers from employers that respect the intent of the law.

[4/5/2026 10:56 am] Andy: Job replacement by technology is not something new. It has happened even way back when automation and machines were invented.

So this is not a new problem faced by mankind, solutions are out there.

It is a good move to train/upskill by the government. It will be good to know how many % of individual gets a job after going through these training

[4/5/2026 10:58 am] Andy: I also see educational institutions are starting to embrace the use of AI for students which will be helpful for them graduating into corporate world

[4/5/2026 11:14 am] Jun Ming: But how adaptive is the worker is. You see traditional work you still need to refine it and at the same time you need to learn new skills in ai

[4/5/2026 11:15 am] REACH Singapore: [ Poll : 1. The Government's initiatives to protect workers help ease my anxiety over AI.

Share with us which initiative gives you the confidence and/or other concerns. ]

- Strongly agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly disagree

[4/5/2026 11:15 am] REACH Singapore: [ Poll : 2. I am confident that Singapore has the right strategies in place to deal with the challenges emerging from the Middle East conflict.

Share your thoughts on the relief measures and the strategy for supply network diversification. ]

- Strongly agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly disagree

[4/5/2026 11:15 am] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

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

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

Thank you.

Megan

[4/5/2026 11:21 am] Jun Ming: And current student doing work and study on some professional line I think don't have a lot of time to actually study in detail on ai. The ai we know is only using chatbots like chat gpt

[4/5/2026 11:22 am] Jun Ming: To use ai to generate picture and video often give funny picture which is what we don't want

[4/5/2026 11:28 am] LCL (Danny 心):

AI hasten the speed of adoption.

[4/5/2026 11:29 am] LCL (Danny 心):

"With AI, cyberattacks come fast; it’s time firms patch faster"

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/with-ai-cyberattacks-come-fast-its-time-firms-patch-faster#:~:text=With%20AI%2C%20cyberattacks%20come%20fast%3B%20it%E2%80%99s%20time%20firms%20patch%20faster

[4/5/2026 11:30 am] LCL (Danny 心):

Advisory on Risks associated with Frontier AI Models | Cyber Security Agency of Singapore

https://share.google/9kjAvk9748qGXoHmG

[4/5/2026 11:32 am] LCL (Danny 心):

1. I was watching the AI programme development every Sunday on channel 8.

2. The AI proliferation is mind boggling as it permeates every sectors of the economy.

3. And the deliverables that the AI produces are leap and bound.

[4/5/2026 11:34 am] LCL (Danny 心):

1. The AI programme features startups, IHL projects, education institutions, Government Agencies, GLCs, MNCs and even some SMEs, adhoc individuals.

2. The boundaries AI can be use are limitless.

[4/5/2026 11:40 am] LCL (Danny 心):

Eg.

1. IHL undergraduates in SUTD use AI to produce a number of 3D design options on the computer after feeding a few parameters by the students.

2. After reviewing and choosing their preferred one by the programme host, the students send the design to a 3D printer to print out the products.

3. All these are done in less than an hour.

4. Without AI, the number of design options will be very limited.

But AI provide so many variations that exceed what a human mind can think of.

5. And the final product from concept to final product is within an hour compare to traditional method of production that can take weeks if not month.

[4/5/2026 11:44 am] LCL (Danny 心):

1. I also watch an individual music composer who uses AI to compose a new song - also by feeding a few parameters.

2. A new very nice song come out within a few minute.

[4/5/2026 11:45 am] LCL (Danny 心):

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS9UaPh17/

Chinese national ruckus in AirAsia.

[4/5/2026 11:47 am] LCL (Danny 心):

This is an AI generated music that is produced within minutes.

Only a few parameters, the content of the issue is feed in, then a very hip lyrics and music is produce within minutes.

[4/5/2026 11:50 am] LCL (Danny 心):

The productivity is mind boggling.

[4/5/2026 11:53 am] Jun Ming: But the boundary of human is limited

[4/5/2026 11:54 am] Jun Ming: The progress is too fast

[4/5/2026 11:54 am] Jun Ming: Even some senior don't know how to go into internet effectively

[4/5/2026 11:56 am] Jun Ming: Ai is good. But people are busy. The pace here is fast. On top of traditional job you need to learn ai

[4/5/2026 11:57 am] Jun Ming: You ask the hawker learn ai they will say where got time

[4/5/2026 11:59 am] Jun Ming: My 60 year old classmates is like how to log in into school website

[4/5/2026 12:07 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

The pace of AI adoption will be a very long stretch.

1. Some are at the forefront of AI, they are the AI R&D researchers and creators.

2. The 2nd tier are AI developers that create AI agents or apps for business use.

3. The 3rd tier is the AI users - trying to use AI agents, tools or apps for their business use.

4. The 4th tier are the AI learners - can use a bit of GAI like chatgpt, DeepSeek, Google AI etc.

5. The 5th tier want to know more about AI and don't know how to start.

[4/5/2026 12:10 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

But AI will be a game changer:-

1. Like the advent of computing - mainframe, PC, network, server-client computing in the 1990s.

2. The advent of internet, web transaction, eTransaction, mobile computing, mobile apps, WiFi, 4G/5G, satellite in the 2000s.

Now it is AI.

[4/5/2026 12:12 pm] 365: As a country, we can't wait for everyone to be onboard first before moving ahead. The best we can do is to offer avenues for people to proceed in the direction of AI, and offer transient protection for the process.

Technology has never waited for everyone to adapt. Can you imagine a society that does not use internet or computers because the older people of that time is used to pen and paper and find computers 'too difficult to learn'?

[4/5/2026 12:13 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Yes.

This is the progression path we need to take.

[4/5/2026 12:17 pm] 365: I think we need a 2 or 3 year plan to encourage as many people to pick up, and to successfully adopt AI into their skillset. During this period, there can be protection from layoffs due to AI, similar to the example of China. Then afterwards AI will be treated as a normal skill, like accounting, nursing, culinary, etc... and drop the protection.

[4/5/2026 12:19 pm] 365: We need the transient protection for people to have a chance to pick up and learn, but this protection cannot be permanent so as to ensure future competitiveness against other countries.

[4/5/2026 12:21 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Yes we have no choice.

Workers and students got to adopt and adapt fast in AI to secure a job and do well in a job.

But government, education institutions, business got to come out with well structure training program and AI course curriculum to ensure all workers and boss are conversant with AI to adopt them in business, work, jobs and school courses.

[4/5/2026 12:40 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Is AI that difficult to adopt and use?

I think depends.

1. I am at tier 4 - AI learner, using ChatGpt, DeepSeek Google AI.

2. My son is tier 1 and tier 2 - R&D researcher and creator as well as AI developer.

He use so many technical jargon - that sounds alien to me.

The math he use - fill up the whole white board - that look Einstein to me.

[4/5/2026 12:48 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Next the closure of Hormuz straits - almost a complete stop to oil, fertilizer and other exports.

There is however a glimpse of hope.

[4/5/2026 12:49 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

‘Structural shift’: new routes for Middle East freight to bypass Hormuz. Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the UAE lead a push for a new trade architecture with multiple nodes linking the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.

https://sc.mp/8llg7?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_campaign=3352166&utm_medium=share_widget

------------------------------

The proposed alternative routes for commercial cargo would flow from ports in the UAE and Oman located outside the Persian Gulf, overland by rail through Saudi Arabia to Jordan, and then onwards through either Egypt’s Suez Canal or the Syrian ports of Latakia and Tartus.

[4/5/2026 12:50 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

419. I post in REACH (Telegram)[1/4/2026 2:00 pm] LCL (Danny 心):-

However, Gulf States should explore another very viable routes that is often overlook - which should be more cost effective and very unlikely to be block at the Hormuz or the Red sea straits.

This will solves the many decades of geopolitical tension in the Gulf States through many energy war.

[1/4/2026 2:01 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Den den den ....... Drum roll....

Gulf States should increase the pipelines from UAE and Saudi straight into Oman and through Oman ports - will bypass the choke points in Hormuz (Iran control) and Red Sea straits (houthis - Yemen control).

Then all the supertankers will berth at the Oman ports rather than going through Hormuz and the Red Sea.

This will solves the energy crisis once and for all.

The oil pipelines from UAE and Saudi can be buried deep underground - that cannot be bomb or sabotage - by ballistic missiles, drones or artillery bombardment.

But the underground pipelines need to be increase so that capacity can match those supertankers.

----

SCMP Published: 10:30am, 3 May 2026

‘Structural shift’: new routes for Middle East freight to bypass Hormuz.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the UAE lead a push for a new trade architecture with multiple nodes linking the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.

[4/5/2026 12:52 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

"A growing number of global shipping companies are diverting vessels away from the Suez Canal and the Red Sea, opting instead for the longer route around southern Africa, as escalating tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt maritime trade."

https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/asia-europe-abandon-suez-canal-route-as-middle-east-tensions-drive-record-traffic/nkqdxnq#:~:text=growing%20number%20of%20global%20shipping%20companies%20are%20diverting%20vessels%20away%20from%20the%20Suez%20Canal%20and%20the%20Red%20Sea%2C%20opting%20instead%20for%20the%20longer%20route%20around%20southern%20Africa%2C%20as%20escalating%20tensions%20in%20the%20Middle%20East%20continue%20to%20disrupt%20maritime%20trade.

[4/5/2026 12:57 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

1. So the whole world supply chain and maritime traffic are adapting to the destructive closure of Hormuz straits.

2. One by building pipelines and land route that link up gulf states straight into Oman ports directly into Arabian Sea - bypassing Hormuz straits and red sea that are blocked and harass as well as force with "toll charges".

The land route and pipelines also go to the Suez canal that link directly to Mediterranean sea into Europe - totally bypassing Hormuz straits and red sea.

3. Ships now instead of going by the shorter routes via Hormuz straits or Red Sea to the Suez canal - will instead go by the Africa cape of good hope - a longer route to the various Africa ports - but a more stable and reliable supply routes not threaten by rouge states - on and off - as and when they like.

These diversion could increasingly become a permanent features because no countries in the world or business want to be held by the neck by rouge states like Trump, Iran and Houthis.

The rouge want to held the world by the neck for ransom - they get nothing in return.

Hence attempts to break the international law - imply that karma bounce back as hard.

[4/5/2026 1:01 pm] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

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

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

Thank you.

Megan

[4/5/2026 1:13 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

"World's largest shipping company reroutes cargo by truck to bypass Hormuz blockade.

MSC will launch new line connecting Europe with ports in the Persian Gulf; the ships will reach Saudi Arabia's west coast from Europe via the Suez Canal; the goods will be transported by trucks to kingdom's east coast and then by small ships to Gulf ports".

https://www.ynetnews.com/business/article/hydgpme011x#:~:text=World%27s%20largest%20shipping,to%20Gulf%20ports

[4/5/2026 1:19 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

1. So if there is no breakthrough in the ceasefire, Hormuz straits opening no end in sight and the fight is likely to resume - all the alternative routes will ensure the world is not starve of oil, fertilizer and other stuff we need.

2. But as the alternative routes are not as efficient, and not the shortest path, the transport cost is likely to be higher.

3. Hence, we could face with a higher fuel cost and food cost etc.

4. In the longer term, we need to develop domestic energy producing capabilities.

[4/5/2026 1:25 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

"Trump says he is likely to reject peace proposal as Iran has 'not yet paid a big enough price'.

US President Donald Trump earlier said that he was not satisfied with the Iranian proposal."

Look like Trump is going to restart a bigger bombing on Iran.

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/us-trump-likely-reject-iran-peace-proposal-big-enough-price-6096976#:~:text=Trump%20says%20he,the%20Iranian%20proposal.

[4/5/2026 1:28 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

AI bots told scientists how to make biological weapons.

The chatbot explained how to modify an infamous pathogen in a lab so that it would resist known treatments.

This could wipeout humanity.

https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/ai-bots-told-scientists-how-to-make-biological-weapons?ref=top-stories

[4/5/2026 1:29 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

But do watch out for this.

Guard rails need to be put in place to prevent such calamity that can be done by AI.

[4/5/2026 1:30 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

"Singapore seeks bids for up to 3 new power plants as electricity demand rises.

The private sector will build, own and operate the new hydrogen-ready natural gas power plants, with one unit due by 2031 and up to two more by 2032, the Energy Market Authority said."

Hydrogen gas from H20 .....

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/ema-bids-3-new-hydrogen-power-plants-rising-electricity-demand-6087971#:~:text=Singapore%20seeks%20bids,Market%20Authority%20said.

[4/5/2026 1:34 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

1. 1 hydrogen power plant can produce 600 Mega Watts of electricity.

2. 3 hydrogen power plant can produce 1.8 Gigawatt of electricity.

3. This is about 10% of our total electricity needs.

4. That means we have successfully able to perform efficient electrolysis of separating water H2O into hydrogen gas to generate electricity.

We could have solve the big fuel input needs to perform the electrolysis.

[4/5/2026 1:36 pm] Jun Ming: H2 fuel on cars

[4/5/2026 1:36 pm] Jun Ming: I have eyeing on it for a long time

[4/5/2026 1:37 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Car manufacturers have not produce hydrogen gas cars.

Only EV cars.

[4/5/2026 1:37 pm] Jun Ming: Have

[4/5/2026 1:37 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Which car manufacturers?

[4/5/2026 1:38 pm] Jun Ming: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4t7GuS-kTyY

[4/5/2026 1:38 pm] Jun Ming: Toyota

[4/5/2026 1:38 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Oh...

That's good news.

[4/5/2026 1:39 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

But it must be sold commercially.

Look like not pushing into market yet.

[4/5/2026 1:40 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

If yes, our petrol stations no need to close shops.

Can fill up with hydrogen gas.

[4/5/2026 1:41 pm] Jun Ming: It's been around for years. when I was in polytechnic it already manufacture this type of car. But I think due to lack of H2 power in Singapore I don't see them around

[4/5/2026 1:42 pm] Jun Ming: https://www.jtc.gov.sg/about-jtc/news-and-stories/press-releases/trials-of-singapores-first-hydrogen-fuel-cell-van-to-begin-at-jtcs-jurong-innovation-district#:~:text=The%20first%20hydrogen%2Dpowered%20light,taking%20shape%20in%20western%20Singapore.

[4/5/2026 1:43 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Yes.

It must be commercially available before consumers can start buying.

Also, refueling stations, maintenance ships, spare parts shops, manufacturers, car showrooms etc - the entire supply chain must be ready.

[4/5/2026 1:43 pm] Jun Ming: But I not sure any updates on this

[4/5/2026 1:45 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

I think not pushing out commercially in a big way.

No big international news on the direction of hydrogen gas cars.

Only some drip and drap on research.

[4/5/2026 1:47 pm] Jun Ming: Just not in Singapore other countries have been commercially using it

[4/5/2026 1:47 pm] Jun Ming: https://www.hyundai.co.nz/hydrogen

[4/5/2026 1:48 pm] Jun Ming: Maybe the design is not much difference compare to electric cars so you can't see the difference

[4/5/2026 1:49 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Oh good to hear that.

I think hydrogen gas cars got very good potential.

Environmental friendly as well.

EV batteries are not environmental friendly.

Long charging time.

Battery can be toxic if not properly disposed.

Lithium minerals quite limited to mine.

[4/5/2026 1:56 pm] G: The big question is: support which workers? Singaporeans? Or workers in general?

And this is the part that will need better addressing: Tripartite. NTUC is the de facto union. And it has a symbiotic relationship with PAP. Will NTUC still serve Singaporeans and the govt of the day when PAP is no longer govt of the day?

But good to see govt doing their part to reduce costly overheads by merging stat boards

[4/5/2026 2:01 pm] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

[4/5/2026 2:07 pm] G: How come nothing about reducing taxes like fuel tax for diesel?

Diesel is the life blood for businesses since it is a direct contributor to transport costs.

Or even better: why not subsidise diesel fuel?

This will bring down cost of business. The taupok at the market will cost less to transport from factory, the diapers will cost less to transport from the port to the supermarkets, the bag of coffee beans will cost less to transport from the warehouse to the kopitiam.

Want to protect workers, but there will not be workers without businesses

[4/5/2026 2:09 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

"Singapore logistics firms brace for tougher times, but EV adopters yet to feel the pinch.

One company that uses electric delivery vehicles and solar panels is planning to hire more people to cope with growing business enquiries."

Delivery companies that uses diesel vehicles - do retrenchment.

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/logistics-companies-retrenchments-layoffs-hiring-electric-vehicle-energy-crisis-6083491#:~:text=Singapore%20logistics%20firms,growing%20business%20enquiries.

[4/5/2026 2:11 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- Google AI

Yes, the Singapore government is providing targeted financial assistance to the delivery, logistics, and transport sectors in response to rising fuel costs linked to the Middle East conflict, as part of a S$1 billion support package announced in April 2026. [1 (https://www.edb.gov.sg/en/business-insights/insights/singapore-rolls-out-s1-billion-support-package-as-energy-costs-rise-expands-corporate-tax-rebates-and-payouts.html), 2 (https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/economy-policy/singapore-rolls-out-s1-billion-support-package-energy-costs-rise-expands-corporate-tax-rebates-and)]

Key measures for the logistics and delivery sector as of April 2026 include:

Cash Payouts for Platform Workers: Active delivery riders, platform workers, taxi drivers, and private-hire car drivers will receive a S$200 one-off cash relief starting from the end of April 2026.

Enhanced Corporate Tax Rebates: To help businesses manage cash flow, the Corporate Income Tax rebate for the Year of Assessment 2026 is increased from 40% to 50%. The total benefits cap for each company is raised to S$40,000.

Expansion of Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG): The EEG base tier is expanded to all sectors (previously limited) and extended until 31 March 2028 to help firms invest in energy-efficient equipment and reduce long-term cost exposure.

Fuel-Related Cost Sharing: The government, acting as a "responsible buyer," will share fuel-related cost increases for critical public sector projects, such as major infrastructure works (e.g., Cross Island MRT line).

Support for Essential Transport Services: Temporary co-funding will be provided to operators of essential services—including school buses, special education transport, and patient transport—to cover 13% of transport fare revenue from April to June 2026. [1 (https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/platform-workers-to-receive-200-cash-from-end-april-to-manage-impact-of-middle-east-conflict), 2 (https://www.ntuc.org.sg/uportal/news/Singapore-to-give-200-cash-payout-to-platform-workers-as-fuel-prices-rise-amid-the-energy-crisis/), 3 (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DW1C37SDbNI/), 4 (https://www.alvarezandmarsal.com/thought-leadership/singapore-s-enhanced-support-measures-in-response-to-the-middle-east-situation), 5 (https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/government-to-share-increased-diesel-and-bitumen-costs-with-contractors-for-critical-public-projects), 6 (https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/operators-of-essential-bus-services-to-get-temporary-govt-support-to-cope-with-higher-fuel-costs), 7 (https://www.facebook.com/batamnewsasia/videos/singapore-transport-relief-government-to-support-essential-services-as-fuel-cost/2038724053694854/#:~:text=Singapore%20Transport%20Relief:%20Government%20to,%F0%9F%87%AC%20%7C%20Batam%20News%20Asia%20%7C%20Facebook), 8 (https://www.edb.gov.sg/en/business-insights/insights/singapore-rolls-out-s1-billion-support-package-as-energy-costs-rise-expands-corporate-tax-rebates-and-payouts.html)]

Long-Term Strategy:

The government has stated it will not reduce fuel or diesel duties across the board, as this is considered a "blunt" approach. Instead, it focuses on targeted support and encouraging energy efficiency to help firms build long-term resilience against high energy prices. [1 (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DW1C37SDbNI/), 2 (https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/middle-east-conflict-road-tax-rebates-energy-supply-support-workers-readiness-6041091), 3 (https://sg.news.yahoo.com/reducing-fuel-duties-across-board-073500163.html), 4 (https://www.ntuc.org.sg/uportal/news/Singapore-to-give-200-cash-payout-to-platform-workers-as-fuel-prices-rise-amid-the-energy-crisis/), 5 (https://www.edb.gov.sg/en/business-insights/insights/singapore-rolls-out-s1-billion-support-package-as-energy-costs-rise-expands-corporate-tax-rebates-and-payouts.html)]

If you'd like, I can provide more specific details on:

How to apply for the Energy Efficiency Grant

The exact eligibility criteria for the $200 platform worker cash payout

Details of the SME tax rebate enhancements

Let me know which of these you'd like to explore further.

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The Straits Times

Singapore's Enhanced Support Measures in Response to the ...

8 Apr 2026 — Singapore's Enhanced Support Measures in Response to the Middle East Situation. The Middle East situation has introduced heightened geopolitical uncertainty, ad...

[4/5/2026 2:13 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

[18/04, 9:33 pm] ☸️ Danny 心: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSHTaCFkx/

Dr Clemen Chiang on oil crisis support.

@Babe:1. Why we can export oil to Australia but not subsidise our oil?

2. Because we need LNG to produce electricity - 95% for Singapore houses, office, commercial, industrial and government offices.

To even treat the water we drink.

3. in energy crisis, the appropriate economic and financial measures is to reduce demand and preserve supply.

Subsidise oil will encourage more demand and usage on oil - accelerating the depletion of oil.

4. Look at countries that subsidise oil, many petrol stations get dry up.

[18/04, 9:33 pm] ☸️ Danny 心: @Babe:1. Subsidizing petrol is using taxpayer's money paid by the majority to finance a few privilege minority that drive.

2. No responsible government, the custodian of the taxpayer money will abuse it to benefit a few privilege.

3. If you want to drive, pay the market price of the petrol.

4. Else take public transport.

5. Business and delivery instead will get help from government to cushion the high petrol prices to get their business and jobs going.

This is the hallmark of a responsible government.

[18/04, 10:18 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

1. Government need to buy crude oil at the escalating high market price. We don't own the crude oil.

2. Singapore refine the oil to sell to consumers or export the refined oil - to earn oil revenue. We cannot sell at a lower price and inherit loss.

3. Subsidizing or making petroleum price low - will deplete our fiscal budget just for the benefit of the few privilege who drive - is economically and politically wrong.

4. Instead tax revenue earn by the government should holistically targeted to benefit every citizens, business and create jobs - to cushion against the high energy costs.

[19/04, 4:13 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

@Babe:1. So will crude oil dry up if Hormuz straits continue to be block?

2. Depends, because as long as there are demand for oil to power their electricity, willing to pay the market prices, crude oil not from Middle East will continue to flow to our oil refineries to refine the oil - so that we can continue to sell to our retail customers and our export customers.

3. Eg. crude can come from Latin America, Africa, US etc. - as long as customers willing to pay market price for the oil, crude oil will come into our refineries.

4. Hence we cannot lower our oil prices or subsidies refined oil in Singapore - because crude oil will flow elsewhere that are willing to pay market price instead of to our refineries.

[19/04, 4:18 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

@Babe:1. So can we honour our agreement to supply Australia with refined oil?

2. Yes we can as long as we pay market price for the crude oil. Because crude oil will flow to our refineries as long as we can pay.

3. So how can our government subsidize oil, it will be a black hole sucking our fiscal budget dry.

4. So if car drivers cannot pay high petrol prices, take public transport and don't drive.

5. Else we can't secure the 95% LNG with Australia if we cannot honour our agreement with Australia to keep our refined oil going just to please the minority drivers abusing their privilege.

[4/5/2026 2:17 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

"Singapore, New Zealand sign world's first legally binding supply chain resilience pact

The agreement commits both countries not to impose unnecessary export restrictions on food, fuel, healthcare and other critical goods."

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/singapore-new-zealand-essential-goods-free-trade-agreement-legally-binding-6097926#:~:text=Singapore%2C%20New%20Zealand,other%20critical%20goods.

[4/5/2026 2:24 pm] G: Changing from diesel to EV is a lot easier said than done.

EV vehicles are not free to change. And are subject to COE.

If the business already has diesel vehicles with COEs paid for, and you ask the biz to change to EV, would you do your part to buy the biz's diesel vehicles to fund their COE and EV?

Talk is easy.

And why delivery companies using diesel vehicles retrenching? It's precisely because the main operational cost of doing business is getting too out of hand (skyrocketing cost of diesel)..

Want to protect jobs? How is allowing diesel prices to skyrocket protecting jobs?

[4/5/2026 2:27 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Look the financial help that the government has granted to business using diesel.

Also look at the economic principles and the consequences of removing fuel tax and subsidies - in which many countries are facing.

Look at the Dr Clemen Chiang comments on the economic principles as an economist.

[4/5/2026 2:27 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

[11/04, 12:51 am] ☸️ Danny 心: "Shell Malaysia working to restore fuel supply amid reports of petrol stations running up empty".

Petrol running dry....

https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/799255#:~:text=OIL%20%26%20GAS-,Shell%20Malaysia%20working%20to%20restore%20fuel%20supply%20amid%20reports%20of%20petrol%20stations%20running%20up%20empty,-By%20Jazlin%20Zakri

In recent reports, petrol station operators have highlighted how they were managing their working capital between sale of fuel and replenishment of supply, at a time when the government's subsidy portion has shot up due to rising unsubsidised fuel prices, while subsidised prices are maintained at current levels — such as RM1.99 at the pumps for RON95.

[11/04, 12:59 am] ☸️ Danny 心:

Cheap petrol in energy crisis, a sure way to ensure supply run dry very quickly - because more people will become kiasu and abuse it - fearing no petrol in herd mentality.

Hence, petrol subsidies, cut fuel tax in energy crisis - a sure way to deplete oil - and whole nation blackout.

Wrong fiscal policies, financial policies in an energy crisis - will worsen the crisis.

Hence our leaders have alot of wisdom that the world can learn from.

[4/5/2026 2:29 pm] G: What actual help is there for diesel and business costs besides sound bites and tokenism?

[4/5/2026 2:29 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- Google AI

Key measures for the logistics and delivery sector as of April 2026 include:

Cash Payouts for Platform Workers: Active delivery riders, platform workers, taxi drivers, and private-hire car drivers will receive a S$200 one-off cash relief starting from the end of April 2026.

Long-Term Strategy:

If you'd like, I can provide more specific details on:

How to apply for the Energy Efficiency Grant

The exact eligibility criteria for the $200 platform worker cash payout

Details of the SME tax rebate enhancements

Let me know which of these you'd like to explore further.

The Government is enhancing its support for businesses amid rising ...

7 Apr 2026 — gov.sg. ... The Government is enhancing its support for businesses amid rising energy and logistics costs, particularly for vulnerable SMEs. The... ... Instagra...

Instagram·gov.sg

Singapore to give $200 cash payout to platform workers as fuel prices ...

7 Apr 2026 — Singapore to give $200 cash payout to platform workers as fuel prices rise amid the energy crisis * Government's support for other self-employed drivers. Mr Sio...

ntuc.org.sg

Singapore rolls out S$1 billion support package as energy costs ...

10 Apr 2026 — To help businesses manage cash flow, Siow said that the corporate income tax rebate announced at this year's Budget will be increased from 40 per cent to 50 per...

Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB)

Singapore rolls out S$1 billion support package as energy costs ...

7 Apr 2026 — The measures are over and above the S$155 billion announced during this year's Budget statement in February, said Senior Minister of State for Finance Jeffrey S...

The Business Times

$200 cash for platform workers amid conflict | The Straits Times

7 Apr 2026 — Platform workers to receive $200 cash from end-April to cushion impact of Middle East conflict * Singapore's government will provide a $200 cash payout to activ...

The Straits Times

Operators of essential bus services to get temporary govt support to ...

10 Apr 2026 — Operators of essential bus services to get temporary govt support to cope with higher fuel costs | The Straits Times. Operators of essential bus services to get...

The Straits Times

Singapore's Enhanced Support Measures in Response to the ...

8 Apr 2026 — Singapore's Enhanced Support Measures in Response to the Middle East Situation. The Middle East situation has introduced heightened geopolitical uncertainty, ad...

[4/5/2026 2:30 pm] G: These are soundbites and tokenisms

[4/5/2026 2:30 pm] Andy: Very easy to blame government again, why never do this, why never subsidize. This is part of challenges many businesses need to overcome.

[4/5/2026 2:30 pm] G: Conflating petrol with business costs?

[4/5/2026 2:30 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

I think you lack the depth to understand economic principles.

[4/5/2026 2:31 pm] G: Very easy to say "switch to EV"

[4/5/2026 2:31 pm] G: I think you don't understand business

[4/5/2026 2:31 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Hahaha...

I think I run more bigger business than you think.

[4/5/2026 2:32 pm] G: OK I clap for you 👏

[4/5/2026 2:37 pm] G: So since your business so big, why don't you do more and buy other businesses' diesel vehicles so that they can switch to EVs?

[4/5/2026 2:37 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Can you read the article properly, petrol and fuel include diesel.

[4/5/2026 2:38 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Other business don't do well and don't plan properly means is my business problem.

[4/5/2026 2:41 pm] G: As you said: talk is easy.

Want businesses to switch to EV. Then they sell their diesel vehicles to who? Which business want to buy from them? Why not you buy from them so that they can have a bit more spare cash to make the switch to EVs faster?

[4/5/2026 2:41 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Then go solve their business problem.

[4/5/2026 2:43 pm] G: My preferred solution to help solve their business problem is for govt to reduce their cost of business by reducing diesel costs.

You are the one who say switch to EV, and for govt to not reduce operational business costs (diesel price). Then you should put money where your talk is.

Go and help these businesses make the switch to EVs by buying up their diesel vehicle fleet

[4/5/2026 2:44 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Zzzz,,

[4/5/2026 2:44 pm] G: 😂

[4/5/2026 2:45 pm] G: You have proven this on yourself: talk is easy

When need to put skin in the game "Zzzz,," is your response

[4/5/2026 3:00 pm] Andy: What is the timeline given for businesses to switch from diesel to EV?

[4/5/2026 3:03 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- Google AI

Yes, Singapore has a clear timeline for businesses to switch to electric vehicles (EVs), targeting 100% cleaner-energy models—including cars, taxis, and heavy vehicles—by 2040. Key milestones include ceasing new registrations of diesel cars/taxis by 2025 and requiring all new registrations to be cleaner energy models (hybrid or EV) by 2030. [1 (https://absgroup.com.sg/everything-you-need-to-know-about-electric-commercial-vehicles/), 2 (https://www.thefinancialcoconut.com/blog/singapore-2-billion-ev-roadmap), 3 (https://www.pml-bmw.com.sg/lifestyle-hub/making-the-switch-to-an-electric-vehicle-here-are-some-things-you-need-to-know/)]

Key Timelines & Policies for Businesses:

2025: Cease registration of diesel-powered cars and taxis.

2026 (Jan 1): Introduction of the Heavy Vehicle Zero Emissions Scheme (HVZES) with $40,000 incentives for new electric heavy vehicles/buses.

2030: All new car and taxi registrations must be cleaner energy models.

2040: Full transition to cleaner energy vehicles (phase out internal combustion engine vehicles).

Incentives: The EV Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI) for cars/taxis is extended until December 31, 2026, though incentives decrease starting in 2026. [1 (https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/industry_innovations/technologies/electric_vehicles/our_ev_roadmap.html), 2 (https://ablink.sg/blogs/news/blogs-news-stack-ev-grants-singapore-2026-guide), 3 (https://www.toyota.com.sg/news-and-updates/blog/electric-cars-and-hybrid-cars-in-singapore-all-you-need-to-know), 4 (https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/faq-electric-vehicle-incentives-extended-rebates-benefits-cost-savings-reduced-ves-eeai-revision-5338081), 5 (https://www.nea.gov.sg/media/news/news/index/extension-of-vehicular-emissions-scheme-(ves)-and-ev-early-adoption-incentive-(eeai)-to-support-vehicle-electrification), 6 (https://www.pml-bmw.com.sg/lifestyle-hub/making-the-switch-to-an-electric-vehicle-here-are-some-things-you-need-to-know/)]

Key Grants for Commercial Vehicles:

Commercial Vehicle Emissions Scheme (CVES): Extended through March 31, 2027, with incentives for light commercial vehicles.

HVZES: Starting in 2026 to support electric heavy goods vehicles and buses. [1 (https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/industry_innovations/technologies/electric_vehicles/our_ev_roadmap.html), 2 (https://ablink.sg/blogs/news/blogs-news-stack-ev-grants-singapore-2026-guide)]

The government incentivizes this transition to align with net-zero goals, aiming for 60,000 EV charging points by 2030. [1 (https://www.thefinancialcoconut.com/blog/singapore-2-billion-ev-roadmap)]

If you'd like, I can:

Detail the specific rebate amounts for light vs. heavy vehicles.

Explain the charging infrastructure requirements for commercial properties.

Provide info on leasing vs. buying EVs for business.

Let me know which of these would be most helpful.

Our EV Roadmap - Singapore - Land Transport Authority (LTA)

17 Apr 2026 — As announced at the Committee of Supply 2025, LTA will introduce the Heavy Vehicle Zero Emissions Scheme (HVZES) starting from 1 Jan 2026. Incentives of $40,000...

Land Transport Authority (LTA)

Extension Of Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES) And EV Early ... - NEA

8 Sept 2025 — The Electric Vehicle (EV) Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI) will be extended until 31 December 2026 and be ceased from 1 January 2027. 2 The VES and EEAI have sup...

NEA

Everything You Need to Know About Electric Commercial Vehicles

24 Jul 2025 — Switching to electric commercial vehicles directly supports the country's environmental goals. These vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping improve a...

absgroup.com.sg

Electric cars & Hybrid cars in Singapore - All you need to know

19 Jul 2022 — The Singapore government and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has announced plans to phase out the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles by 2040 in favo...

Toyota Singapore

Making the switch to an electric vehicle? Here are some things you ...

From 2025 – Singapore will cease the registration of diesel-powered cars and taxis. From 2030 – All new car registrations will have to be clean energy models su...

BMW Performance Motors Limited

Buying an EV? Rebates will shrink from 2026 - here's how much you'll save

8 Sept 2025 — The Electric Vehicle (EV) Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI) has been extended to December 31, 2026, before being phased out. The EEAI offers a 45% rebate on the A...

CNA

Stack EV Grants Singapore 2026: Save Up to S$70,000 - ABLINK

3 Mar 2026 — Introduction. Singapore's government is paying businesses to go electric. In 2026, fleet owners who know the right strategy can stack multiple government grants...

ABLINK Pte Ltd

Singapore's SGD 2 Billion EV Roadmap: How to Profit from the ...

20 Mar 2025 — The rationale is clear: EVs emit half the CO2 of ICE vehicles, aligning with Singapore's net-zero goals. Milestones include HDB EV-readiness by 2025, 60,000 cha...

The Financial Coconut

[4/5/2026 3:04 pm] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

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

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

Thank you.

Megan

[4/5/2026 3:04 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

2025 already cease registration of diesel vehicles.

[4/5/2026 3:04 pm] Andy: Let the G guy respond since he so mad

[4/5/2026 3:05 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Hahaha...

[4/5/2026 3:09 pm] G: Of new diesel vehicles. Means you can still buy diesel ones off businesses and help them transition to EVs.

Why don't you do it?

[4/5/2026 3:16 pm] Andy: Don't they give incentive to switch to EV? It has been encouraged for a long time.

And got deadline to switch all to EV or no?

[4/5/2026 3:17 pm] Andy: Your diesel fleet still can use ma right. So you can keep them. But diesel cost increasing is your pain point?

[4/5/2026 3:24 pm] G: Switch still need to sell right? Buy to replace?

Or is your idea just buy EV and leave the diesel one lying there?

Danny preferred solution is switch to EV to reduce business costs ma

[4/5/2026 3:29 pm] G: Yes. Diesel vehicles can still use right?

What's one big operational cost of business? Transport costs, whether directly or indirectly

What contributes to transport costs? Diesel price.

What can the govt do about diesel price? Govt can (1) tax the diesel; (2) don't tax the diesel; (3) subsidise the diesel

What has the govt done about diesel prices? (1) tax the diesel

Will increased diesel prices drive up overall costs of business? Yes, because the vast majority of businesses rely on goods and services being transported from location to location

[4/5/2026 3:41 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

If run out of diesel how?

Especially if you cut diesel tax or subsidise diesel prices.

That is what happens to many countries now.

[4/5/2026 3:42 pm] G: Why fear when you can help these businesses switch from diesel to EV by buying up their diesel vehicles?

[4/5/2026 3:42 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Don't understand your logic now.

[4/5/2026 3:43 pm] G: SG refines the crude and diesel is made in SG

What's your fear?

[4/5/2026 3:44 pm] G: You help by buying up all the diesel vehicles and store in your location lor. Then businesses got spare cash to switch to EVs

Then national diesel demand will drop ma.. So less fear about "If run out of diesel how?"

[4/5/2026 3:44 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

If demand increases due to low prices, supply squeeze or dry up for crude, not coming to Singapore which is happening now.

Does your economic principles of diesel tax cut and subsidy still stand?

[4/5/2026 3:45 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

I think if you want to discuss government policies, talk like an adult, don't behave like a toddler.

[4/5/2026 3:46 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

You say don't understand economic principles is ok.

Understand business is good enough.

I say you are wrong.

If economic principles are wrong, business will collapse.

[4/5/2026 3:47 pm] G: Nope. You should put money where your mouth is. You keep pushing for EV switch. You talk about your big business

Then help make it happen. Smaller businesses can't just chuck their existing diesel vehicles somewhere and suka suka buy new EVs just to save on operational costs.

You can and should help smaller businesses by buying up their diesel vehicles so that they can switch to EVs to lower their business costs

[4/5/2026 3:48 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

That's why I don't like to talk to toddler.

[4/5/2026 3:51 pm] G: How sure are you that demand will increase when taxes are removed or diesel is subsidised?

Your comment is based just on theory alone or got include reality?

What drives diesel demand? Just diesel price alone? Or also include number of diesel consumers? Suddenly will have more diesel vehicles on the road? That's controlled by COE ma.. And you said so yourself: no more diesel vehicle registration since 2025

SG diesel goods vehicles all got speed limiter now. There's only so much one vehicle can physically travel due to the speed limiters. And one day only got 24 hours

So where did your increased diesel demand come from?

[4/5/2026 3:51 pm] Jun Ming: Economic ripple effect. Hais unfortunately we are not china have the resources and land to self sustain

[4/5/2026 3:52 pm] Jun Ming: The world is getting worse and worse

[4/5/2026 3:52 pm] Jun Ming: If you were in gov position what will you do

[4/5/2026 3:52 pm] G: 😂 When asked to put skin in the game, this is how you react

[4/5/2026 3:54 pm] Jun Ming: I think this gov have done well in foreign affairs tbh.

[4/5/2026 3:55 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Some companies bosses who run a huge fleet of diesel tour bus, logistic lorries etc adapt much better than that mad guy ideas.

They streamline their delivery, collaborate on route, hybrid use of EV and diesel, plan through AI the most efficient routes etc plus many ingenious ideas.

That's why talking to the toddler waste our time.

[4/5/2026 3:58 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Many companies can be successful because companies bosses and CEOs solve their own business problems creatively.

Only toddler will get mad, blame this, blame that and blame the government but don't know how to solve their own business problem.

Always need handholding.

How to be successful?

[4/5/2026 4:00 pm] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

[4/5/2026 4:02 pm] G: 😂 Meh whatever floats your boat

When you get called out, or cannot answer difficult follow on questions on your comments, you resort to name calling and belittling

[4/5/2026 4:02 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

How does overseas petrol station went dry?

Suddenly increase of cars?

1. Crude supply dry up.

2. Business not streamline to save fuel - no incentive to do so.

3. Since price is cheap, subsidies or cut fuel tax - more frivolous usage.

4. Government coffer suddenly come under strain - as fiscal budget lose tax revenue or divert other finances to fund fuel subsidy.

Wrong economic principles cause business transport to come to a halt when petrol station run dry.

[4/5/2026 4:03 pm] Jun Ming: Evs or whatsoever comes from natural gas primarily. You can say crude oil is one of the primary sources of energy. Though we can diversify energy, and doing oil refinery business to sustain the petrol levels in Singapore we still need to conserve energy.

[4/5/2026 4:03 pm] G: Then why are you so happy with govt paying lip service hand holding for businesses and workers?

Praising cash handouts?

Praising CDC vouchers?

[4/5/2026 4:03 pm] G: Overseas have COE?

[4/5/2026 4:04 pm] LCL (Danny 心): 👍

[4/5/2026 4:04 pm] LCL (Danny 心): I rest my case.

[4/5/2026 4:05 pm] Jun Ming: So I urge gov to invest in energy saving policy and innovation. For example using wired headphones

[4/5/2026 4:07 pm] Jun Ming: Nowadays manufacturer like to create things that requires charging. So we must look into it to reduce such things

[4/5/2026 4:14 pm] 365: Singapore sadly doesn't have a large enough consumer base to do this. The closest step we have is use ASEAN as a collective to bargain from companies, and even this is very unlikely to happen.

It's the same as how EU as a collective can enforce consumer friendly practices, such as recently passing a bill to require all phones to have removable battery and hardware availability for 7 years.

If it's just 1 EU country only, companies can evaluate if it's more profitable to just give up the market than to comply.

[4/5/2026 4:16 pm] 365: The good news is that whatever consumer friendly requirements EU passes, they are likely to spillover to the whole world, as more often than not it is more profitable to have 1 product line sticking to the strictest requirements than to have 2 separate lines.

Bad news is we have to rely on EU decisions and even then, the spillover effect usually only applies to products and not services.

[4/5/2026 4:36 pm] G: Why use overseas petrol station to compare with SG when overseas don't have COE?

When SG govt policies control the diesel demand? You said so yourself that no new diesel vehicles can be registered since 2025

You purposely ignore facts and reality to push false narratives and fearmonger

[4/5/2026 4:36 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

My close friend comments:-

When crude oil supply is restricted, diesel supply will also be dampened. Subsidizing diesel encourages diesel consumption, may worsen situation.

[4/5/2026 4:38 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Anyone can explain how does coe fit with diesel usage - when overseas diesel users don't buy new vehicle but increase consumption until the petrol station run dry?

Very baffling.

[4/5/2026 4:45 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

My close friend comments:-

In fact, this is an opportunity to push for EV and Hybrid to address a more fundamental goal of going green.

Gov will refund unused coe value.

[4/5/2026 4:51 pm] G: SG imports crude and refined oil

SG makes the diesel.

SG is an exporter of diesel

If SG runs out of diesel, it's because it exports more than what local consumption requires

[4/5/2026 4:52 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Can quote the source of your facts - we export more than local consumption requires?

[4/5/2026 4:53 pm] Jun Ming: To me both ev or petrol don't do much difference. Only thing is electricity can comes from various sources.

[4/5/2026 4:53 pm] Jun Ming: But in sg context the primary source is still natural gas

[4/5/2026 4:54 pm] G: Your own logic:

COE controls the number of diesel consumers and hence can control diesel demand

Who controls the number of COEs in SG?

And in your own words, there are no new diesel consumers since 2025 after the govt banned registration of new diesel vehicles

How can you ignore this to push false narratives and fearmonger?

Where does the sudden spike in diesel demand come from?

[4/5/2026 4:54 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Also Singapore is one of the biggest refineries of crude oil.

We export refined oil.

Did you get your facts correct?

[4/5/2026 4:55 pm] Jun Ming: And the recycling rate of lithium battery is still low

[4/5/2026 4:55 pm] G: Is diesel refined crude?

[4/5/2026 4:55 pm] Jun Ming: Yes

[4/5/2026 4:56 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

I really rest my case.

Your economic logic.....

Despite the various explanation still cannot get through.

[4/5/2026 4:56 pm] G: Wait for the angry LCL to answer

[4/5/2026 4:56 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

I stop answering to you.

Because it really waste my time.

Am I angry, actually I was laughing all the time.

My close circle are also laughing at your comments.

[4/5/2026 4:57 pm] G: You ignore govt demand control mechanisms in SG to push false narratives that fear monger petrol stations running dry in SG.

Why are you doing this?

[4/5/2026 5:03 pm] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

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

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

Thank you.

Megan

[4/5/2026 5:04 pm] G: It is very concerning that you ignore and overlook facts (diesel demand control mechanisms via govt COEs) in order to push a false narrative that uses a grossly simplified demand vs supply curve to fear monger that petrol stations would run out of diesel if govt either drops diesel taxes or subsidises diesel

Why are you spreading fear?

[4/5/2026 5:12 pm] Jun Ming: If I am gov I can do this but it don't bring any good. People will buy fuel like crazy. And our reserve will drop quickly. We also have kpi to meet externally

[4/5/2026 5:50 pm] Khai Mun L.: For AI, what aspects are we to focus on? Like IT, the area is huge.

Creating a new language model, changing business process to load training data, or using right prompts etc...

I recommend actual tech experts instead of politicians to guide us.

[4/5/2026 5:51 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

I think AI agents and tools customise for the various business will be the most useful.

GAI Generative AI are for general use.

[4/5/2026 5:53 pm] 365: I would think it's mainly the usage of AI as a tool. Agentic AI is the most likely one. It's past just prompts now, prompting is just the baseline. You need to adjust your agent and integrate systems for better efficiency.

[4/5/2026 5:53 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Yes.

[4/5/2026 5:54 pm] 365: You will still need someone who has knowledge and expertise in the subject matter to build the agent, and also to ensure the correct or wanted output.

[4/5/2026 5:55 pm] 365: Humans will become the reviewer with AI being the doer.

[4/5/2026 5:56 pm] Khai Mun L.: Agentic ai whereby "artificial intelligence systems that pursue goals through their own actions".

Are local laws good enough to cover scenarios and consumers to trust it?

[4/5/2026 5:56 pm] 365: Though this still depends on industry to industry. The robotics section is still building up.

To what I know, China is leading the robotics. Even a recent case of Japan using robots for handling luggage at airport, the models are from a Chinese company.

[4/5/2026 5:56 pm] 365: AI do, humans review. Accountability lies with the human.

[4/5/2026 5:57 pm] 365: So in the end is are you trusting the human still.

[4/5/2026 5:57 pm] 365: It's like how we still have qc sections in the past, even though the doer is human.

[4/5/2026 5:57 pm] Khai Mun L.: There would still be processes which are automated. Cannot be every step is human reviewed

[4/5/2026 5:58 pm] 365: Not every step, companies will need to decide how granular they want to qc, final product and liability is still on them.

[4/5/2026 6:00 pm] Khai Mun L.: E.g. grant personal loan to customer, bank sign off the review, but then found that the ai which generated the summary numbers is wrong.

Who's fault: bank, creator of AI or training data of AI? Claim the financial damage from who

[4/5/2026 6:00 pm] 365: Actually even in factory lines, as to what I know depending on product, there can be qc for each step.

Whether this can translate to digital work efficiently is another issue.

[4/5/2026 6:00 pm] 365: Bank

[4/5/2026 6:00 pm] 365: Bank has the final responsibility.

[4/5/2026 6:01 pm] 365: They can claim damages from the AI creator if applicable, but the customer should claim full liability from them.

[4/5/2026 6:01 pm] 365: Even damages from AI creator has to be verified that it's due to the fault of the AI and not their own configuration issues.

[4/5/2026 6:01 pm] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

[4/5/2026 6:42 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

AI creator got limited liability just like any IT developer.

QC need to check every output at every checkpoint.

Ultimately it is the organisation liability that uses AI or IT that uses the output.

[4/5/2026 6:45 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Eg. If a lawyer use an AI created case precedents in Court, if the AI hallucinate and produce fake case precedents, the lawyer that uses it must double check the accuracy of the case precedents.

Judge will hold the lawyer liable not the AI creator, eg. ChatGpt.

[4/5/2026 6:50 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

AI tools are merely IT tools.

If you notice in every tender, limited liability clauses will be inserted into the tender by vendors that supply the IT tools.

Else no Big Tech want to bid for the tender.

[4/5/2026 6:53 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Eg. When I use spreadsheet to generate the account statement, I use calculator to double check and verify to double confirm.

If the spreadsheet generates wrong number, I cannot sue Microsoft.

Because I could have used wrong formula, wrong link etc or simply there are software bugs.

[4/5/2026 6:54 pm] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 10 minutes ⏰

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

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

[4/5/2026 6:56 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Btw AI uses probabilistic statistics.

Not deterministic.

Thus QC and double check - extremely important !!!!

[4/5/2026 7:00 pm] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors

We will be closing the chat for today.

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

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

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Monday, May 4, 2026