Babe Blog - Insights on News Events: July 2026

Thursday, July 23, 2026

REACH (Telegram) 151 - What are your thoughts on the Cabinet reshuffle? Do you feel that the appointments strengthen the Government’s ability to take Singapore forward through new and emerging challenges?

(SK)

23 Jul 2026 (10am - 7pm)

REACH (Telegram)

[23/7/2026 9:48 am] REACH Singapore: Dear contributors,

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[23/7/2026 10:01 am] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

Prime Minister & Finance Minister Lawrence Wong announced a Cabinet reshuffle on July 22, with several first-term politicians taking on larger roles as part of what he called a continuous leadership transition that balances experience and youth.

GE2025 newcomers Jeffrey Siow and David Neo will be promoted to full minister, Sim Ann will become Second Minister for Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs, while first-term MP Jasmin Lau will helm the Ministry of Manpower as Acting Minister. Tan See Leng will relinquish the manpower portfolio to become Minister for Trade and Industry. The ministry will be renamed the Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry from Oct 1. Labour chief Ng Chee Meng will return to Cabinet as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, while K. Shanmugam will be Senior Minister. The changes, which will take effect progressively from July 27, come on the back of two unexpected resignations earlier in the year.

💬 What are your thoughts on the Cabinet reshuffle? Do you feel that the appointments strengthen the Government’s ability to take Singapore forward through new and emerging challenges?

📌 Balancing experienced hands with a new generation

Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Centre, PM Wong said: “This balance matters because Singapore needs both experienced leaders to steer through immediate challenges, and a new generation ready to take us forward. Leadership renewal is therefore a continuous process.”

He described Shanmugam and Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong as "the two most experienced members of my team," who "will continue to provide valuable counsel, and will help guide and mentor our younger office holders." Ng Chee Meng's return to Cabinet adds another experienced figure to support the newer office-holders.

📌 First-term MPs given larger responsibilities

Siow and Neo, both Acting Ministers since May 2025, will become full ministers. Siow will be appointed Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance. Neo will become Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Education.

Lau will become Acting Minister for Manpower, while backbench MPs and former senior civil servants Foo Cexiang and Shawn Loh will also be brought into government as ministers of state. Explaining the moves, PM Wong said of the newer office-holders: "They have settled into their roles well, earned the confidence of their colleagues and of the civil servants they work with, and show that they are ready for greater responsibilities."

Over time, more of the PAP's fifth generation of leadership will emerge from this process, said PM Wong, who is also the party's secretary-general.

📌 Resignations and the need for a strong pipeline

PM Wong said that the Cabinet is reviewed every year, but unexpected changes also have to be factored in. He pointed to two resignations in 2026: Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim on July 20 and Senior Minister of State Koh Poh Koon on June 1.

"Obviously, ideally, I would have preferred for the resignations not to have happened," he said, adding that such departures mean the Government has to keep building a strong pipeline: "It is not just the ministers; you need younger office-holders, you need good backbenchers."

PM Wong, who has held the finance portfolio since 2021, said he is "always looking to find someone who will be ready to be finance minister," describing his search for a successor as a "work in progress."

He also addressed a question on his decision not to appoint a second deputy prime minister alongside Gan Kim Yong. He said the current structure is appropriate and provides a strong senior leadership team. However, it will be reviewed as leadership renewal continues, he added, noting that the Cabinet also has three Coordinating Ministers.

[23/7/2026 10:01 am] REACH Singapore: 📌 The Singapore way of leadership renewal

Asked how the core of the party's next generation is taking shape, PM Wong said he had asked office-holders from the latest batch to attend the press conference to show Singaporeans that renewal is happening.

He was flanked by Siow and Neo. Lau, and another GE2025 newcomer Goh Pei Ming, who was promoted to senior minister of state, were also there, along with Zaqy Mohamad, who took over as Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs from Faishal.

PM Wong said his job is to assess office-holders, entrust them with responsibilities when they are ready, and put people in positions where they can best contribute to Singapore, which is what he has done with the latest round of changes.

"That is the Singapore way of leadership renewal. It is a continuous process, and this announcement today reflects that continuous process."

👉 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/pm-wong-unveils-new-cabinet-appoints-first-term-politicians-to-larger-roles

👉 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/cabinet-reshuffle-6270631

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[23/7/2026 10:24 am] Jun Ming: Erm even if we express dissatisfaction nothing will change leh

[23/7/2026 10:25 am] Jun Ming: It's not like next day he will change appointment

[23/7/2026 10:27 am] Jun Ming: My friend say those newcomers should take a smaller role before taking over bigger roles like minister

[23/7/2026 10:27 am] Jun Ming: Step by step promotion

[23/7/2026 10:28 am] Adam: Idk whats in the texts. How did things get leaked?

[23/7/2026 10:34 am] Adam: Imo i think whatever with faisal is overblown and that there are probably more unscrupulous things kept secret by position holders. Cmon fired over private texts? Maybe im desensitized by wild stuff by politicians done overseas.

But to maintain an image of whiter than white uncorruptability, he probably had to let go otherwise it will be a vunerable point in our leadership

[23/7/2026 10:35 am] Jun Ming: But seriously David neo not suitable to be in ministry of culture leh. He lack of the softness to do it

[23/7/2026 10:36 am] Jun Ming: His speech is too military style

[23/7/2026 10:37 am] Daniel: I also have some doubts on David Neo. He didn't seem very approachable during the elections. On top of that he did have two hiccups with the comments on HK and that movie. So it's a bit surprising to see him made minister so fast.

[23/7/2026 10:41 am] Adam in reply to Jun Ming:

> ‎⁨My friend say those newcomers should take a smaller role...

I think we need more newcomers in higher levels. Our governance needs to be based on merit, not seniority.

If we have such a culture of step by step, there will be stagnation with elder generation always at the top of hierarchy. Younger gen not trying their best knowing their time will come inevitably whether they work hard or slack.

Existing ministers needs to keep their skills sharp lest they be overtaken by younger ones who can more effectively work with new ideas and tech. And young have an incentive to fight as they know there is a spot for them up top

[23/7/2026 10:41 am] Jun Ming: I would appreciate that for first time minister they have experience in similar background with the roles in their ministry

[23/7/2026 10:42 am] Jun Ming: For eg. Siow I don't mind him being transport minister because he worked in lta before and he knows the procedure

[23/7/2026 10:42 am] Adam: Yeah ministers need experience in the ground

[23/7/2026 10:43 am] Adam: Transport minister need to walk, cycle and take bus around singapore as routine

[23/7/2026 10:43 am] Adam: Culture minister need to watch movie

[23/7/2026 11:24 am] G in reply to Adam:

> ‎⁨Culture minister need to watch movie⁩

He got no time to be minister 😂

[23/7/2026 11:40 am] G in reply to Jun Ming:

> ‎⁨His speech is too military style⁩

Military culture is also a culture 😂

[23/7/2026 12:47 pm] RY in reply to REACH Singapore:

> ‎⁨📢 Topic 📢 Prime Minister & Finance Minister Lawrence Wong...

Glad to see the latest Cabinet Resuffling, in consideration of the 5G leadership renewal, as 5G ministers require the mentorship of 3G and 4G ministers also

However, all ministers holding more than 1 portfolio, will they be able to cope, just wondering ....eventhough SG ministers are one of well-paid in the world

[23/7/2026 2:04 pm] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

[23/7/2026 2:48 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

1. Minister's role primary focus on :-

a. Possess strategic thinking

b. Set vision for the domain they helm

c. Able to connect all the dots - in domestic and internationl events

d. Set Policy directions with consultation and communication with civil service and public service.

e. Able to muster the talents, resources under him - to execute and implement his policy directions

f. Communicate effectively his policy directions to motivate industries, communities, business, groups and people under him to ensure buy-in.

[23/7/2026 3:08 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Is it necessary for the Ministers to be experience in the domain they helm?

- I feel that it can be yes or not necessary.

Why? Let me quote some examples :

1. Our Forefather Leader Mr LKY is a lawyer - but he excel as a Statesman - domestic and Global.

2. Dr Goh Keng Swee is an Economist - but he also excel and build up SAF from scratch.

3. Dr Ng Eng Heng is a doctor - but he is an exemplary Minister of Defence with strategic military view and diplomacy

4. Dr Vivan is a opthalimologist - but excel as Minister of Foreign Affairs

5. Minister Chan Chun Sing is an Army Chief - but he did very well in various portfolio eg. Education, Public Service Administration.

6. Minister Ong Ye Kung is civil service in Transport - but he excel in HealthCare Minister as well.

7. Mdm Ho Ching is a defence engineer - and she performed superbly as a fund investor and manager with her financial acumen to grow Temasek funds from a less than $100 billion Temasek asset into more than $400 billion fund before she retired.

8. Minister Tan See Leng is CEO in Healthcare group - but he do very well in Manpower, Energy.

There are many more examples - too long to quote.

Minister - need to have strategic thinking and visionary - set policy directions - which most of the time are very shrewd in "Critical Thinking" - and able to connect all the dots not apparent to many people.

Most important able to communicate his/her policy directions to the ground and common people at large to win buy-in.

And his/her Ministry under them - are able to execute and implement his policy directions well.

This is the hallmark of a capable Minister.

[23/7/2026 3:18 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

In my personal opinion, 2 newly appointed Ministers have very good potential :-

a. MInister Jeffrey Seow achievement is very notable.

i. He resolved the MRT reliability problems - eg. publish up-to-date reliability data,

ii. engage the few top MRT chiefs around the world to share how to make our MRT reliable and then effectively implement the suggestions,

iii. implement AV vehicles and train PHV, Taxi and Bus drivers in reconversion,

iv. Global Transport Hub white paper complemented by AI, robotics and automation - that will make Singapore the eminent sea hub, air hub and land hub.

b. Ng Chee Meng as NTUC chief to Minister to PMO - has very strong organisational abilities - how he run SAF as LT General (the highest rank General ever achieve in SAF), organising the last minute Mr LKY funeral with precision, and how he run NTUC Unions in the midst of Manpower challenges and transformation - due to geopolitical tensions that impact business and jobs as well as AI disruptions

[23/7/2026 3:26 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

To support my observation, let us benchmark my observations to major global governance index in 2025 and 2026 :-

Singapore maintains top-tier status on major governance indices for 2025 and 2026, highlighted by leadership positions in the Chandler Good Government Index ) and the IMD World Competitiveness

Good Government Index (CGGI)2025 & 2026 Rankings: Singapore ranked 1st globally for the fourth consecutive year in the annual CGGI, which evaluates public sector capabilities and governance across 133 countries.

Strengths: Scored at the absolute top for Financial Stewardship, Regulatory Governance, Strong Institutions, and Quality of Bureaucracy.

World Competitiveness Ranking2025 Ranking: Placed 2nd globally behind Switzerland.

Ranking: Reclaimed 1st place globally, driven by a massive surge to first place in Business Efficiency and continued high marks in Government Efficiency.

Key Governance & Innovation StandingsElite Governance (2025): Maintained 1st place in the Elite Quality Index (EQx), reflecting strong alignment between public policy and private enterprise

Innovation Index (2025): Ranked 5th globally, topping multiple sub-factors including Government Effectiveness and regulatory quality.

Governance: Maintained top-3 global standing in the United Nations e-Government metrics for technology deployment and infrastructure.

[23/7/2026 3:32 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

In summary, I have very good confidence in our PM Lawrence Wong newly appointed Cabinet - comprise of Senior Ministers and new Ministers with fresh perspectives.

Many indications have shown that Singapore Cabinet Ministers and our strong Civil Service and Public Service will continue to do very well and shine in the global stage as reflected by the various Global Governance Indices.

[23/7/2026 3:33 pm] LCL (Danny 心): [21/07, 11:58 pm]

☸️ Danny 心: "The world has adapted to the supply shock during five months of war, learning how to cope without using as much oil as it had before the conflict.

Hundreds of millions of barrels of oil finally escaped the Strait of Hormuz last month, only to find few willing buyers.

Some Middle Eastern crude had to be heavily discounted before it found any takers."

https://www.cnn.com/2026/07/21/business/oil-demand-iran-china#:~:text=The%20world%20has,found%20any%20takers.

[22/07, 3:17 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

A very strange but favourable twist to the world on the supply of oil - despite both Hormuz Straits and Red Sea got blocked.

1. The short ceasefire have allowed many crude oil to ship out of Middle East.

2. 30 refineries in Gulf States have been damaged by Iran lead to overwhelming crude oil not refined. Iran refineries also damage by US.

3. Oversupply of crude oil flow out - many to Singapore as the world largest bunkering hub.

4. Our refineries now working in max capacity.

5. Russia refineries also badly damage by Ukraine.

5. Many countries are not demanding oil as their energy sources as many have switched to solar, EV, hydro, palm oil, nuclear, coal, wind, geothermal etc - cutting down the needs for oil.

6. Also Singapore have found alternative supplies like Australia, Africa, Central Asia, Latin America etc.

This looks like a permanent position on future oil demand.

[23/7/2026 3:35 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨[21/07, 11:58 pm] ☸️ Danny 心: "The world has adapted to the...

See in a major crisis that block the oil from Middle East - previously Hormuz Straits.

Now both Hormuz Straits and Red Sea are blocked - yet we are still doing very well in handling our energy supply.

Kudos to our Cabinet Ministers.

[23/7/2026 3:46 pm] Gabriel in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨In my personal opinion, 2 newly appointed Ministers have very...

To say that Jeffrey Siow resolved MRT reliability problems is premature. What are the suggestions from the expert panel have been implemented and for how long?

As for Ng Chee Meng "organising the last minute LKY funeral" is bogus. His funeral has been planned and rehearsed many years leading up to the actual date. His running of NTUC is no where as outstanding as you are making it out to be.

[23/7/2026 3:51 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Are we experiencing mrt problems recently?

Funeral plan and rehearse many years leading to actual date - isn't it strategic planning? It doesn't happen in a vacuum.

Singapore union and job scene is the most stable compare to many countries affected by AI and geopolitical disruption.

Eg. US, India, EU, China, Indonesia, Malaysia etc mass job disruption.

Singapore is now in full employment in economic term.

[23/7/2026 3:52 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Are we experiencing mrt problems recently?...

Source :- Google Gemini AI

Singapore maintains a practical state of full employment, characterized by low and stable jobless rates of around 2.0% overall and resilient job demand tracked in official reports by the Ministry of Manpower Labour Market Report.

[23/7/2026 3:54 pm] Gabriel in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Are we experiencing mrt problems recently?...

Are we experiencing MRT problems recently?

Yes, LTA stopped reporting on delays under 30 minutes. 30 minutes might be acceptable to you but for working adults, even 15 mins is a lot in peak hour transit.

So is it strategic planning or organising last minute? Your framing of his competency is confusing.

[23/7/2026 3:55 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- Google Gemini AI

Former Chief of Defence Force Ng Chee Meng served as the chairman of the State Funeral Organising Committee (SFOC)

He was tasked with overseeing the entire state funeral operations (codenamed Operation White Light) and also led the very first Vigil Guard.

Role and Responsibilities

Chairman of Organising Committee: Led the cross-agency committee that planned and executed the week-long national mourning and state funeral arrangements from March 23 to March 29, 2015.

Activation: Commenced "Operation White Light" at 6:00 AM on March 23, 2015, following the official certification of Mr. Lee Kuan Yew's passing.

First Vigil Guard: Headed the initial military guard-of-honor duty alongside other top tri-service military chiefs during the lying-in-state period.

[23/7/2026 3:55 pm] Gabriel in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Source:- Google Gemini AI Former Chief of Defence Force Ng...

Well done.

You want to Gemini the whole history of LKY while you are at it?

[23/7/2026 4:00 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Gabriel:

> ‎⁨Are we experiencing MRT problems recently?...

Even all the top MRT chiefs around the world have some disruptions.

Not perfect - as long as we live in this world.

But benchmark that to the World, we are still doing relatively well.

In your life, nothing breakdown?

[23/7/2026 4:00 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Gabriel:

> ‎⁨Well done. You want to Gemini the whole history of LKY while...

And benchmark Singapore governance as the world best - what do you have to say?

[23/7/2026 4:00 pm] Gabriel in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Even all the top MRT chiefs around the world have some...

I said that saying that Jeffrey Siow has resolved MRT reliability issues is premature.

You said: in your life, nothing breakdown?

No need to engage people like you.

[23/7/2026 4:01 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Gabriel:

> ‎⁨I said that saying that Jeffrey Siow has resolved MRT...

Relatively - that are humanely possible.

[23/7/2026 4:02 pm] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

[23/7/2026 4:03 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Gabriel:

> ‎⁨I said that saying that Jeffrey Siow has resolved MRT...

Just feel that you nick pick rather than objectively look at things.

If a boss nickpick every single things you do instead of looking at the overall outcome - I wonder how you feel.

You want to be micromanage or look at the overall results?

[23/7/2026 4:07 pm] Gabriel: Source:- Google Gemini AI

LCL (Danny 心) is a Hype Man / Hype Agent: Someone who aggressively promotes or praises people to generate excitement, regardless of actual merit or readiness.

[23/7/2026 4:10 pm] Andy in reply to REACH Singapore:

> ‎⁨📢 Topic 📢 Prime Minister & Finance Minister Lawrence Wong...

For me I don't care who they reshuffle. Not like we can do anything about it. I want to hear from the new appointment holders what their short and long plan is for the nation. How are they better than the previous guy and what holes they are supposed to fill?

[23/7/2026 4:12 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source DeepSeek:-

Based on the latest data from China's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released in July 2026, the youth unemployment rate for 16- to 24-year-olds (excluding students) was 14.9% in June.

[23/7/2026 4:13 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- ChatGpt

The U.S. youth unemployment rate (ages 16–24) was 9.2% in June 2026, down slightly from 9.4% in May 2026.

[23/7/2026 4:14 pm] Andy: Why suddenly talk about unemployment rate

[23/7/2026 4:15 pm] Gabriel in reply to Andy:

> ‎⁨Why suddenly talk about unemployment rate⁩

Confirm is AI bot kee siao

[23/7/2026 4:15 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source :- Claude

Latest data (as of March 2026): India's youth unemployment rate (ages 15–29) was about 15.2% in March 2026, up from a low of 13.8% in April 2025

[23/7/2026 4:17 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source :- Meta Llama

*EU & Euro area overall*

- *EU April 2026*: 15.1% youth unemployment, down from 15.6% in March

- *Euro area April 2026*: 14.7%, down from 15.1% in March

- *EU May 2026*: 15.2%

- *Euro area May 2026*: 14.7% stable

[23/7/2026 4:19 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Singapore jobless rate 2.0% - stand very well against all other countries.

Kudos to our Manpower and NTUC Unions!

Figures don't lie.

But people's opinions - can skewed.

[23/7/2026 4:22 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- Google Gemini AI

Airhub

Singapore Changi Airport secured first place as the world's best airport at the Skytrax World Airport Award, alongside top rankings from Travel+Leisure World's Best Awards (and DestinAsian Readers' Choice Awards.)

PortHub

Shipping Centre Index: Retained 1st place for the 13th consecutive year on the Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index with a score of 99.32 out of 100.

Land transport hub

Rail Network Backbone: Over 229 km of Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) operational lines connecting 166 stations.

Accessibility Goal: Targets 80% of households within a 10-minute walk of an MRT station under the LTA master plan.

[23/7/2026 4:22 pm] Andy: alamak...

[23/7/2026 4:25 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Source:- Google Gemini AI Airhub Singapore Changi Airport...

Real facts and figures don't lies.

Rankings also don't lies.

People's opinions can be affected by his personal discretion.

[23/7/2026 4:29 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

And all these figures are 2025 and 2026 - that directly reflects the current Ministers' and NTUC chief Performance - reflecting actual merits and readiness - not personal opinions or I think, you think....

[23/7/2026 4:31 pm] Gabriel in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨And all these figures are 2025 and 2026 - that directly...

NTUC got what to do with employment rates. Are you confusing MOM with NTUC?

Source:- Google Gemini AI

LCL (Danny 心) is a Hype Man / Hype Agent: Someone who aggressively promotes or praises people to generate excitement, regardless of actual merit or readiness.

[23/7/2026 4:35 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- Google Gemini AI

Singapore’s MRT matches world-class regional standards, ranking high in cleanliness and reliability against peers in Japan, Taiwan, China, and South Korea, backed by official Land Transport Authority performance data.

ScaleSingapore (MRT): High uptime tracked via Mean Kilometre Between Failure (MKBF), frequently exceeding millions of kilometers before a delay, comparable to top global metros.

[23/7/2026 4:37 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Singapore MRT still rank very well in the global benchmark against the world top well run MRT.

[23/7/2026 4:41 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

NTUC helps Singapore maintain low unemployment through active job placement via NTUC's e2i, proactive worker redeployment through the Job Security Council NTUC Job Security Council, and continuous skills training through NTUC LearningHub.

The percentage of PME (Professionals, Managers, and Executives) jobseekers approaching the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) increased from 45 per cent to 61 per cent between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024.

Placement and Support DetailsTotal Placements: NTUC’s e2i successfully placed over 29,000 jobseekers into employment in 2024.

PME Growth: Job placements for PMEs (including skilled technicians) through NTUC rose from 8,800 to 17,000 between 2023 and 2024.

Virtual Career Support: Over 3,500 jobseekers benefited from NTUC's Virtual Career Coach since its launch.

[23/7/2026 4:42 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨NTUC helps Singapore maintain low unemployment through active...

Facts and figures don't lie.

Human? Ignorance do.

[23/7/2026 5:19 pm] Jun Ming in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Is it necessary for the Ministers to be experience in the...

Yes you need to be in relevant field to be in a character to strategize and adopt. You need certain experience at least such as hobby or aspire to be.

Not saying you can't cross over to a foreign field. But you need to understand deeply on the field which you need some experience. If not is 外行指挥内行让人笑掉大牙

[23/7/2026 5:20 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Jun Ming:

> ‎⁨Yes you need to be in relevant field to be in a character to...

Quite true.

But some very capable one can make it.

[23/7/2026 5:20 pm] Jun Ming: If someone don't have any experience it would be better to take a junior role rather parachute into a big role

[23/7/2026 5:21 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Jun Ming:

> ‎⁨If someone don't have any experience it would be better to...

Hmm....

Look at the list I provided, they are not in that domain entirely.

But they excel.

Critical Thinking very important.

[23/7/2026 5:23 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Hmm.... Look at the list I provided,...

Doctor to become defence minister.

Engineer to be financial fund manager.

[23/7/2026 5:23 pm] Jun Ming: Yes. As I said experience or aspire to be is important. They may not have the relevant degree or working experience but they may be a person who love the field a lot and learn the field in their free time

[23/7/2026 5:23 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Jun Ming:

> ‎⁨Yes. As I said experience or aspire to be is important....

Yes agree.

[23/7/2026 5:23 pm] Jun Ming: Not someone who say I don't have time for the field

[23/7/2026 5:23 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Jun Ming:

> ‎⁨Not someone who say I don't have time for the field⁩

No comments on this.

[23/7/2026 5:29 pm] Jun Ming: This shows right the lack of passion for his role

[23/7/2026 5:29 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

This is definitely his gaffe and needs to learn from this mistake.

[23/7/2026 5:30 pm] Jun Ming: And then why would we appoint someone who have have no passion no experience to lead the country

[23/7/2026 5:31 pm] Jun Ming: Hence I say David neo is not suitable as minister of culture. He may be appointed on other role to suit his character but not culture which need soft spot and flexibility

[23/7/2026 5:31 pm] Jun Ming: As this is more towards the arts field rather than physical and engineering field

[23/7/2026 5:32 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Jun Ming:

> ‎⁨And then why would we appoint someone who have have no passion...

I won't jump to this conclusion.

Because eg. I also got no time to go for every IT events.

Also I got no time to attend every financial talk with finance as my side hustle.

He is just honest about it - even though politically in the Parliament, he should say so diplomatically not raw admission.

[23/7/2026 5:33 pm] Jun Ming: That's why I would say he is lacking of culture. The use of language is part of culture

[23/7/2026 5:34 pm] Jun Ming: If he wants to learn maybe a second minister to begin with

[23/7/2026 5:34 pm] Jun Ming: Not straight away the top position

[23/7/2026 5:34 pm] Jun Ming: As I feel he is not qualified enough

[23/7/2026 5:35 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Only his boss, that's the PM, his cabinet colleagues, civil and public servants that work with him as well as those people he interact with will know his capabilities.

Not just looking at one gaffe, I jump into the conclusion that he got no passion.

For example he could have see Tik Tok with dialect and already have some thinking how to approach such dialects movies or he already get feedback from his civil servants?

[23/7/2026 5:37 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to Jun Ming:

> ‎⁨As I feel he is not qualified enough⁩

Time will tell, and he will have to prove himself.

But culture like you say is a soft issues, not much indicators to determine performance unlike other domains.

[23/7/2026 5:38 pm] Jun Ming: Not only this incident. Previously the way he responded to interview shows this the iron type of man. It's not the type of soft character that can make it vibrant

[23/7/2026 5:38 pm] Jun Ming: It's just way too military

[23/7/2026 5:38 pm] Jun Ming: It's the way he talk to soldiers

[23/7/2026 5:41 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Understand.

Military man from military settings will need sometimes to adjust to political settings.

Because they are so used to disciplinary settings throughout their decades of career.

Hence I am not surprised most military man have some mistake and some gaffe when they join politics.

But long term, we could see a very different person.

SM Lee, Chan Chun Sing, Ng Chee Meng etc - we can see their performance in long term.

Even LKY had some gaffe along the way when he commented honestly in some regional and global affairs - and recover in long term and become a respectable Global Elder Statesman.

[23/7/2026 5:56 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source :- Google Gemini AI

Singapore ranking in global culture and art indicator

Singapore ranks Number 1 globally on the TripAdvisor 2026 Travelers' Choice Cultural Destinations in the Global Innovation Index.

Key Cultural and Art RankingsTripAdvisor Travelers' Choice (2026): Ranked 1st globally as the best cultural destination, beating traditional heritage hubs.

Global Innovation Index (WIPO): Ranked 1st globally in the specific sub-indicator for Cultural and creative services exports (% of total trade).

Creative Outputs Sub-Index (WIPO): Ranked 15th globally within the broader creative and intangible output metrics.

Local Statistics: Managed via regular tracking by the National Arts Council Singapore Cultural Statistics.

[23/7/2026 5:57 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Sorry I check got global culture indicator.

Singapore rank top globally in 2026.

Attribute to Minister David Neo achievement.

[23/7/2026 5:58 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- Google Gemini AI

2025

Singapore ranks 22nd globally and 1st in Southeast Asia for culture and tourism according to the U.S. News & World Report Cultural Ranking, and stands at 1st place globally for cultural and creative services exports under the WIPO Global Innovation Index.

[23/7/2026 5:59 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

There are drastic improvement in global culture index under Minister David Neo.

[23/7/2026 6:00 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

That's why I don't jump to conclusion and make judgement without the backing of facts.

[23/7/2026 6:02 pm] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

[23/7/2026 6:03 pm] G in reply to REACH Singapore:

> ‎⁨📌 The Singapore way of leadership renewal Asked how the core...

A question: how come there's no by-election after Faishal's resignation?

I understand the law does not require a by-election. However, this flies against the spirit of having a GRC, and the impetus for having a GRC in the first place

To say minority race issues can be adequately covered by majority race incumbents is contradictory to why GRCs were created.

Furthermore, not calling for a by-election and saying incumbent MPs can adequately cover also is contrary to wanting to have more MPs in parliament (MP to voter ratio). If 4 people can adequately do the job of 5 people, then why need 5 people? Why budget in the extra headcount? It is a waste of taxpayer money

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/no-by-election-will-be-called-after-faishals-resignation-says-desmond-lee

[23/7/2026 6:09 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Raesh khan resign in Sengkang GRC, how come no by election?

[23/7/2026 6:09 pm] G in reply to G:

> ‎⁨A question: how come there's no by-election after Faishal's...

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/ge2025-electoral-boundaries-announced-15-smcs-and-18-grcs

"Explaining its recommendations, the EBRC said in its report that voter numbers have grown significantly in (https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/new-punggol-and-pasir-ris-changi-grcs-in-north-east-following-rapid-population-growth?ref=inline-article) Pasir Ris-Punggol Sembawang and Tampines GRCs, as well as the single seats of Hong Kah North and Potong Pasir. "

[23/7/2026 6:10 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Raesh khan resign in Sengkang GRC, how come no by election?⁩

Yes. Why don't have?

[23/7/2026 6:11 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Raesh khan resign in Sengkang GRC, how come no by election?⁩

Who has the authority to call for election?

[23/7/2026 6:11 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Source:- Google Gemini AI

Under Singapore election law, a by-election is not required if only one member (or any number short of the full team) resigns from a Group Representation Constituency (GRC). Official details are explained further on the Gov.sg GRC By-Election Guide (https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.gov.sg/explainers/when-is-a-by-election-for-a-grc-called/&ved=2ahUKEwiApr_Vx-iVAxW23jgGHcGEKFIQy_kOegoIAggACAAIBxAB&opi=89978449&cd&psig=AOvVaw04_CBayZT0tjQSCEtiRKwz&ust=1784887887999000). [1 (https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/no-election-will-be-called-after-faishals-resignation-says-desmond-lee), 2 (https://www.gov.sg/explainers/when-is-a-by-election-for-a-grc-called/)]

[23/7/2026 6:13 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Source:- Google Gemini AI Under Singapore election law,...

😂 AI again

[23/7/2026 6:13 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

If not based on imagination?

[23/7/2026 6:14 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Source:- Google Gemini AI Under Singapore election law,...

Yes. The law says don't need.

So is the law inadequate to address the concerns of minority representation in GRCs?

[23/7/2026 6:14 pm] G: If the law is adequate, how so?

[23/7/2026 6:14 pm] G: Since GRCs are created specifically for minority representation

[23/7/2026 6:17 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

According to the bye law passed in Parliament:-

Source :- Google Gemini AI

Minority Requirement: The rule requiring a minority candidate applies strictly at the time of nomination and general elections, not as a continuing condition for every day of the parliamentary term. [1 (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/correct-law-incomplete-design-grc-vacancy-gap-mohamed-yakub-bljwc)]

[23/7/2026 6:17 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Raesh khan resign in Sengkang GRC, how come no by election?⁩

It is the prime minister who has the authority to advise the president to call for by-election

Why didn't he do it for this case?

[23/7/2026 6:18 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to G:

> ‎⁨It is the prime minister who has the authority to advise the...

Bye law say so.

[23/7/2026 6:18 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨According to the bye law passed in Parliament:- Source :-...

Yes. So can play cheat right?

Find a token minority. Vote the group in. Then the person suka resign

[23/7/2026 6:18 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Bye law say so.⁩

So is the law adequate?

[23/7/2026 6:19 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Bye law passed in Parliament - debated by incumbent and opposition.

[23/7/2026 6:23 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Bye law passed in Parliament - debated by incumbent and...

That does not answer the question if the law is adequate

This is the same logic as if the majority think robbing/stealing/raping etc is ok and they vote to legalise such activities, therefore robbing/stealing/raping etc is all and good 👍

[23/7/2026 6:24 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

By law as passed in Parliament - as voted in by Singapore voters.

[23/7/2026 6:25 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨By law as passed in Parliament - as voted in by Singapore...

Did Singaporeans get to vote on passing laws?

You mean you personally voted to pass that laws?

[23/7/2026 6:26 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

MPs voted, elected by Singaporeans voters as our representatives.

[23/7/2026 6:27 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨MPs voted, elected by Singaporeans voters as our...

And so what if the law is passed?

It does not make it morally right.

So when one day, the majority of MPs vote to decriminalise rape, you will be ok with it because "MPs voted, elected by Singaporeans voters as our representatives."?

Because this is your logic

[23/7/2026 6:28 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to G:

> ‎⁨And so what if the law is passed?...

Wow what an analogy...

[23/7/2026 6:28 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Wow what an analogy...⁩

Just using your logic

[23/7/2026 6:30 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨MPs voted, elected by Singaporeans voters as our...

This is the kind of warped logic that helps legitimise morally abhorrent behaviour and activities because "MPs voted, elected by Singaporeanss voters as our representatives."

[23/7/2026 6:32 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨MPs voted, elected by Singaporeans voters as our...

This is the kind of logic that continued to empower evil regimes like the Nazis.

End of the day, the Nazis were voted in.

Going with your logic, you are ok with Nazis and their activities right? Since they were voted in by the German voters

[23/7/2026 6:33 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

I am very happy with the PAP.

Making Singapore the best in the World in many domains.

An indeed shiny tiny red dot.

[23/7/2026 6:33 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨MPs voted, elected by Singaporeans voters as our...

The Nazis suka suka change the laws and constitution to suit their agenda.

Going by your logic, it's ok. Because the Germans voted them in

[23/7/2026 6:34 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨I am very happy with the PAP. Making Singapore the best in...

In fact our governance admired by many people in the World.

[23/7/2026 6:38 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨MPs voted, elected by Singaporeans voters as our...

We don't have to go back far in time to see how this PAP passed discrimatory laws: VDS

I guess you are ok with discrimination because "MPs voted, elected by Singaporeans voters as our representatives."

[23/7/2026 6:40 pm] G: One can even argue that by not having a law that compels a by-election when a minority race MP quits the GRC, is discrimination against minority races

[23/7/2026 6:40 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Voters in Sengkang GRC are ok with no by election when raesh khan resign as long as the remaining MPs cover the tasks.

Likewise, many voters in bradell also express the same.

Because, GE will be 4 years down the road.

Why waste time and money for this short period - instead should focus on governing the Country well amidst the many challenges ahead of us?

The impact of by election and the time and money wasted not proportionate.

[23/7/2026 6:43 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Voters in Sengkang GRC are ok with no by election when raesh...

Who has authority to call for by-election?

The incumbent WP team in sengkang?

They can't even call for by-election even if they wanted to

[23/7/2026 6:44 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

WP team in media interview say no by election required.

[23/7/2026 6:44 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Because it is provision under the by law.

[23/7/2026 6:44 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Voters in Sengkang GRC are ok with no by election when raesh...

Each term is 5 years. Lobang in GRC for 80% of the term?

Then like that need so many MPs for what?

[23/7/2026 6:45 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨WP team in media interview say no by election required.⁩

They don't have authority to call for by-election even if they wanted to.

Only PM and president can call for by-election

[23/7/2026 6:45 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Because it is provision under the by law.⁩

So then, is the law adequate?

If not adequate, then it needs to be changed

[23/7/2026 6:46 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

It is provision under the by law.

WP can overturn the decision in court if PM insist on a by election.

[23/7/2026 6:46 pm] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰

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

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

[23/7/2026 6:46 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Voters in Sengkang GRC are ok with no by election when raesh...

80% of the MPs term is short period?

Waste time and money?

[23/7/2026 6:46 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Many people don't see the needs for a by election.

[23/7/2026 6:46 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Many people don't see the needs for a by election.⁩

Are you sure?

[23/7/2026 6:47 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨It is provision under the by law....

So is the law adequate?

[23/7/2026 6:47 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

The by law is passed in Parliament.

No hue and cry

[23/7/2026 6:48 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨The by law is passed in Parliament. No hue and cry⁩

Why not change the law to compel a by-election whenever a minority race MP leaves a GRC during their term so as to protect minority representation and hence the impetus for GRC?

[23/7/2026 6:48 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨The by law is passed in Parliament. No hue and cry⁩

😂 spewing nazi logic again

[23/7/2026 6:48 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Zzzzzzzz

[23/7/2026 6:49 pm] G in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨The by law is passed in Parliament. No hue and cry⁩

Ok la. When the day comes that parliament passes some discrimination law, decides to decriminalise rape etc, you should be ok with it 👍

No hue and cry

[23/7/2026 7:02 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 😊

====

After note:-

1. MOM is a top down approach to create jobs.

2. NTUC Unions are bottom up approach to help workers find jobs and train them to be placed in jobs.

They complement one another.

----

GRC is an initiative to ensure sufficient minority representation in Parliament of the various races to voice and ensure their various communities interest are taken into account.

In a GRC, minority candidate could be Malay or Indian or other races representing one of the racial community in Singapore.

Eg. Bradell GRC, the minority race, Faisal is a Malay - but he need to serve the needs of not only Malay, but also Chinese, Indians and others.

Minority representatives voices in Parliament to discuss national issues are more pertinent rather than a GRC municipal issues - that can be handled by MP of any races.

Hence absence of one Malay MP in the Parliament does not minimise the Malay community voices - as there are still a few Malay cabinet and MPs in the Parliament.

If Bradell GRC minority is an Indian, he will still have to serve Malay resident.

Besides, the other MPs that happens to be Chinese are stepping in to serve all residents under Faisal - be it Malays, Chinese, indians or other races.

So there is no pressing needs to have a by election to secure the Malay voice because who knows the next candidate could be an Indian or other races.

Besides 4 years later, a GE will be called and another minority race will be reinstated. Could be Malay, an Indian or others.

----

In MP meet-the-resident session, MP role is to address municipal issues like find jobs, welfare needs, apply licences, write in to government agencies to help residents etc,

- and not to discuss or debate national or community issues that affect a particular race.

So any MPs regardless of races can do the job.

====

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSXWrHtCn/

Appointment and promotion of new Ministers

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSXWMHHBk/

PM Lawrence Wong on why he called Ng Chee Meng back into Cabinet.

Minister David Neo

@Babe:His 1 gaffe in Parliament don't define his capabilities and performance.

Because eg. I also got no time to go for every events related to my trade.

He is just honest about it - even though politically in the Parliament, he should say so diplomatically not raw admission.

And the positive attribute of David Neo - he don't lie in Parliament.

====

@Babe:Great Eastern performance - profitability is $1.2 billions a year.

Income insurance performance - profitability is $118.9 millions a year.

Income insurance profit is 10 times less than GE annually - because Income Insurance only operate in domestic market within Singapore and unable to penetrate overseas market unlike GE that can penetrate regional market under the wings of OCBC.

If Income insurance is to be acquired by Allianz that have global market penetration, its profit will likely be able to overtake GE.

So Ng Chee Meng decision to merge with Allianz is a correct commercial strategic decision that are unable to materialize due to people nostalgic backlash without taking into account pragmatic commercial consideration.

====

@Babe:So summarize the 3 Ministers appointment based on merits - aligned to Global Performance Indicators:-

1. Minister Jeffrey Seow - Transport

- Best Global Airport

- Best Global Seaport

- Comparable efficient and reliable MRT vis-a-vis other top Metros.

2. Minister Ng Chee Meng - Unions

- Exceptional Organisation Abilities in organizing last minute LKY funeral with precision.

- Run NTUC Unions that help MOM to achieve a low unemployment rate 2% with job placement and training as opposed to all other Countries high unemployment rate.

3. Minister David Neo - Culture

- help Singapore to achieve top rankings in many Global Culture and Art indicators in 2026 with drastic improvement from last year 2025.

====

@Babe:To support my observation, let us benchmark my observations to major global governance index in 2025 and 2026 :-

Singapore maintains top-tier status on major governance indices for 2025 and 2026, highlighted by leadership positions in the Chandler Good Government Index ) and the IMD World Competitiveness

Strengths: Scored at the absolute top for Financial Stewardship, Regulatory Governance, Strong Institutions, and Quality of Bureaucracy.

World Competitiveness Ranking 2025 Ranking: Placed 2nd globally behind Switzerland.

Ranking: Reclaimed 1st place globally, driven by a massive surge to first place in Business Efficiency and continued high marks in Government Efficiency.

Key Governance & Innovation Standings

Elite Governance (2025): Maintained 1st place in the Elite Quality Index (EQx), reflecting strong alignment between public policy and private enterprise

Innovation Index (2025): Ranked 5th globally, topping multiple sub-factors including Government Effectiveness and regulatory quality.

Governance: Maintained top-3 global standing in the United Nations e-Government metrics for technology deployment and infrastructure.

@Babe:PM Lawrence Wong and his Cabinet has secured the Best Governance Global Index in 2025 and 2026.

Indeed Singapore has been ranked the best government in the World - by the Global Governance Index for 2025 and 2026!

Kudos to PM Lawrence Wong and his Cabinet!

====

@Babe:As for Acting Minister Jasmine Lau, her experience in R&D, MIT and her appointment in Digital Development will make her useful in ensuring Manpower, Business are transformed, trained and aligned to exploit AI productively.

@Babe:Her technical background as researcher in R&D lab and MIT grounding will be put to good used in transforming workers to be AI-ready and be useful to business transforming in exploiting AI.

====

Monday, July 20, 2026

REACH (Telegram) 150 - What are your views on the current measures in place to protect youths online? What are your views on a tiered or age-based access system to social media for youth?

(SK)

20 Jul 2026 (10am - 7pm)

REACH (Telegram)

[20/7/2026 9:23 am] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

Welcome Back! 😊

⏰ We will be opening the chat from 9.30am to 7pm today. ⏰

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The topic will be posted shortly.

Thank you.

Megan 😊

[20/7/2026 9:30 am] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

Social media platforms that fail to meet child safety standards could be blocked for users under 18, while those that do could continue offering access to young users, Digital Development and Information Minister Josephine Teo said on Friday (Jul 17).

Speaking at a forum on child online safety organised by the Ministry of Digital Development and Information and the Institute of Policy Studies, Mrs Teo said discussions pointed towards a "differentiated landscape" where access hinges on whether platforms can provide a safe environment for children.

💬 What are your views on the current measures in place to protect youths online? What are your views on a tiered or age-based access system to social media for youth?

📌 Government’s Priority

Restricting access is "not the starting point" and "not the preferred outcome", she stressed. The government's priority remains working with platforms to strengthen safety features so children can keep accessing digital services more safely.

Her remarks build on an earlier proposal for tiered or age-based access, under which younger children could be barred from certain platforms while older teenagers gain access gradually as they develop the maturity to navigate online spaces.

📌 Existing safeguards

Singapore already has several age-related safeguards in place. These include Codes of Practice for Online Safety, age assurance requirements for apps and annual reporting obligations for social media platforms.

"The idea that we can kick them off (social media) completely is not a very realistic one," Minister Teo said, noting that children today grow up without a clear separation between online and offline life. Protecting children from harm is "only part of it", she added. Preparing them to navigate digital spaces responsibly matters just as much, if not more, in the long run.

📌 Tiered Access to Social Media

Summing up the discussions at the forum, Minister Teo said there was broad support for tiered access and stronger expectations that tech companies take responsibility for designing safer platforms.

She said safety should extend beyond moderating harmful content to features that shape user behaviour, such as recommendation algorithms, design elements that encourage constant use and the ability to interact with strangers.

"If we really want to create a child-safe environment, making sure it doesn't stop at the border called content but instead goes into considerations that define the features, the design of these services, is something that has also come across very loudly and clearly.”

Beyond regulation, she said ensuring children's online safety requires a whole-of-society effort spanning government, industry, educators, parents and young people.

👉 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/social-media-ban-children-under-18s-josephine-teo-6260356

👉 https://www.straitstimes.com/tech/age-based-access-safer-system-design-on-social-media-needed-in-singapore?ref=latest

----

[20/7/2026 10:01 am] REACH Singapore: [ Poll : 1. I am confident in the Government’s approach to ensure a safer social media environment for youths. Share your reasons in the chat! ]

- Strongly agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly disagree

[20/7/2026 10:01 am] REACH Singapore: [ Poll : 2. A tiered age-based approach to social media access for those under 18 is an effective way to protect youths online. Share your reasons in the chat! ]

- Strongly agree

- Agree

- Neutral

- Disagree

- Strongly disagree

[20/7/2026 10:03 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!

💬 What are your views on the current measures in place to protect youths online? What are your views on a tiered or age-based access system to social media for youth?

Thank you.

Megan 😊

[20/7/2026 10:59 am] 365: Platforms will use the laziest method, and use it as an excuse to collect data. The best way is to go back to parents teaching and guidance of their own children. If parents really care for their child, then stop making excuses for why you can't do it.

[20/7/2026 11:19 am] Kai Bin in reply to REACH Singapore:

> ‎⁨Dear Contributors, Please take a moment to participate in our...

Set age restrictions for users under 18, do not let kids or youths under 16 to access social media

[20/7/2026 11:20 am] Adam: Wonder which platform will have the first data leak

[20/7/2026 11:20 am] Adam: And if data leak, what kind of slap on the wrist

[20/7/2026 11:24 am] Adam: By this logic, we should also restrict access of elders to social media. They are vunerable and get scammed often. In fact, bad actors are more likely to target elders with their nest egg

[20/7/2026 11:25 am] Adam: Would be funny if the govt dares to do that

[20/7/2026 12:08 pm] RY in reply to REACH Singapore:

> 📢 Topic 📢 Social media platforms that fail to meet child safety...

Glad that SG Govt has also taken a similar approach like Australia, that have some restriction for youth accessing to media platforms in consideration for their online safety

It shd be all parties efforts - govt/school/parent/child for this policy to succeed

[20/7/2026 1:00 pm] Jun Ming: How would you enforce it? I can fake my age to register account

[20/7/2026 1:00 pm] Jun Ming: We got an example in Australia. Where kids continue scrolling despite the ban

[20/7/2026 1:02 pm] Jun Ming: Back then when I am in primary school I already create Facebook account liao

[20/7/2026 1:11 pm] Daniel: I think this is an important topic. Some features of social media are proven to be harmful to everyone (including adults) and I would welcome overall regulation to reign in these specific features (such as Infinite scroll or amplifying extreme content). Because as other said above, whatever age restrictions put in place, there will be a way around.

[20/7/2026 1:12 pm] G: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/faishal-ibrahim-resigns-over-online-messages-with-a-female-member-of-the-public

[20/7/2026 1:48 pm] Berry R in reply to G:

> ‎⁨https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/faishal-...

😳😱🤯

[20/7/2026 1:48 pm] Berry R: Who is taking over his MP duties? Wonder what actually happen! But think there is a stricter approach to personal conduct for ministers, MPs…

[20/7/2026 1:50 pm] G in reply to Berry R:

> ‎⁨Who is taking over his MP duties? Wonder what actually happen!...

Perhaps this is another reason for GRCs? 😏

Then don't need to hold by-elections 😉

[20/7/2026 2:15 pm] Adam in reply to G:

> ‎⁨https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/faishal-...

This is all because of social media. Social media is unhealthy and addictive. Like porn and drugs. Must regulate and ban for adults and children. Even MP succumb to its temptations

[20/7/2026 3:13 pm] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

[20/7/2026 3:23 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

1. My family, sbilings family, and close circle friends' families don't have children yet.

2. But for the safety of the young ones - to prevent access to online harm at young age - I support restricted access to online social media.

3. Imposing social media platforms to restrict the young ones from undesirable content - is an appropriate move - as business must have social responsibilities to ensure their content and services must not be monetize or weaponise to cause harm to the young ones.

4. This is a minimal responsibilites expected of the Business, Government and Societies - to protect our innocent young ones.

[20/7/2026 3:34 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

The list of Countries that have restricted access or ban of young children in social media platforms are :-

- China

- North Korea

- Iran

- Turkmenistran

- Russia

Minors and Child-Safety Age Limits

Ban under 16

- Australia

- Indonesia

- Malaysia

- Turkey (ban under 15)

- UAE (ban under 15)

Propose Bans (Proposed or drafted landmark laws to ban children under 15 or 16 from major platforms)

- UK

- France

- Greece

- Denmark

- Spain

- Canada

Proposed restricted access to children under 18 (not full ban) - block for platforms that fail to meet child safety standards

- Singapore

Source :- Google Gemini AI

[20/7/2026 3:35 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨The list of Countries that have restricted access or ban of...

Singapore approach to child safety standards online - is the mildest among all Countries.

[20/7/2026 3:40 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Online protection of young children below 18 is similar to physical protection - to prevent our young from harm in the adult world.

So I don't see any disparity - between online and physical.

In fact it is an action to bring online safety up to the same safety standard of physical safety for young children.

[20/7/2026 3:44 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Eg. When crossing a major road full of traffic, we expect an adult to hold the hand of a young one - to cross the road safely.

We don't expect the adult to let the young one cross the road by themselves.

This is the responsibility expected of the adult on young children.

[20/7/2026 3:48 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

Likewise when the young one surf the dangerous world wide web full of danger, we expect the community, business, society and the government to lead, restrict, guide or block harmful content from influencing our young ones and affect their development at their formative age.

Just like our parents, schools, work, communities to guide the young ones not to befriend bad influence but good ones so that they develop wholesomely and not subject to bad influence, turn bad and harm the society or harm themselves or family members or their social circles.

[20/7/2026 3:51 pm] 365: Yes, we expect the guardians of the child to be guiding them, not set an ID scanner at the road to determine if the person should be blocked from crossing the road.

[20/7/2026 3:52 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

If social media can radicalise adults to become terrorists.

What is more about radicalizing young children to be terrorists warriors?

[20/7/2026 3:53 pm] Daniel in reply to 365:

> ‎⁨Yes, we expect the guardians of the child to be guiding them,...

But we also expect there to be traffic lights, ovrrpasses and pedestrian crossings for them to be able to safely cross the road. Right now there are no such things on the Internet.

[20/7/2026 3:55 pm] 365: So the internet is like your road between blocks that do not have all these, the point stands that it then falls on their guardians to guide them across, not set automatic blockades that require ID verification. The current implementation always falls back to ID verification.

[20/7/2026 3:59 pm] LCL (Danny 心): Eg

In kindergarten, porno, extreme content, killings, violence etc should be blocked and ban from children.

Schools and parents and government cannot allow schools or parents to bring porno books, violent books - and let and guide children see porno and extreme content - and then say these are bad, now we guide you.

You can see as long as we guide you.

Can we?

[20/7/2026 4:02 pm] 365: You do know that all these content are not exclusive on just social media platforms right? If the implementation is for them to block access based on self declared age, I'm fine. If one wants to overdeclare their age and expose themselves, it is on them and their parents to guide them back to not lying and understanding potential risk.

If the implementation escalates to data collection, especially something as sensitive as ID, then it's a problem.

[20/7/2026 4:03 pm] 365: Even if all the social media adhere to whatever policies are set up, what's stopping a motivated child from searching porn using the search engine? Do we regulate that also?

[20/7/2026 4:04 pm] LCL (Danny 心):

In fact, I prefer all the undesirable contents like terrorism content, violence, porno etc to be blocked regardless of age.

They don't make people good.

But harm people regardless of age.

[20/7/2026 4:05 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨In fact, I prefer all the undesirable contents like terrorism...

If such contents are blocked in mainstream media and TV channels, rightfully social media should also be blocked.

[20/7/2026 4:07 pm] 365: This will allow people to decide what is good or bad for you accordingly then. Is US attacking Iran terrorism? Some may argue it that way, so we block it? Should all movie screenings in Singapore remove violence also? Any genres depicting sexual or suggestive scene, similar to what has appeared in titanic, all removed from screening?

[20/7/2026 4:08 pm] 365: Going in accordance to this logic, if mainstream media and TV channels do not show, why should cinema show it?

[20/7/2026 4:10 pm] 365: This allows whoever is in power to decide what is good and bad, and then what to show and what not to. Taken to an extreme spectrum, anyone can correct if I'm wrong, investing in equity is considered gambling by Muslims, so if the one in power takes the view that gambling is bad and should block on all platforms, then all equity investment sharing should be blocked.

[20/7/2026 4:11 pm] Adam: Singapore is a node of internet traffic. We can block certain objectionable content from the whole region. To do so, we also will need to sniff traffic passing by our borders. If data is encrypted it should be blocked too just like chinas great firewall

Data companies will love setting in such a place for being a bastion of morality and ethics. Why is singapore currently letting despicable data passing through our fibers.

Even if the data isnt destined for singapore ip, it will eventually harm people overseas

[20/7/2026 4:13 pm] 365: I support, at best, requesting social media platforms to make content accessibility based on *self-declared* age, not request of additional data, especially personal.

The remaining responsibility is on the onus of parents to teach their child not to intentionally bypass it, similar to how you teach your child traffic rules so they can cross safely when you're not with them.

[20/7/2026 4:35 pm] 여자친구, 첫사랑 🏆 in reply to Berry R:

> ‎⁨Who is taking over his MP duties? Wonder what actually happen!...

Should be talked about more here eh hahaha.

[20/7/2026 4:46 pm] LCL (Danny 心) in reply to LCL (Danny 心):

> ‎⁨Many stealth warships - St kinetic design....

Correction:-

Stealth warships - ST Marine.

[20/7/2026 4:55 pm] Jun Ming: I think google play will auto block registering account if they use sign up with google right

[20/7/2026 4:57 pm] Jun Ming: I am thinking maybe a cross verification on different platform and temporary lock down the account

[20/7/2026 5:10 pm] REACH Singapore: 📢 Topic 📢

[20/7/2026 6:45 pm] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes ⏰

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

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

[20/7/2026 7:01 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 😊

====

Saturday, July 18, 2026

Need to achieve equilibrium of Capitalism and Socialism

[18/07, 8:51 am] Close friend comments: RM10.879bil in cooking oil subsidies lost while shelves run empty: Who is accountable? | The Star https://share.google/BypSyzYJHKhjdcEbG

[18/07, 8:51 am] Close friend comments: Always difficult to help the newsies. Even our cdc vouchers scheme, people trade for cash

[18/07, 1:50 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Yes subsidies always skew market behavior and put pressure on govt fiscal budget.

The best is boost people income.

[18/07, 1:56 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

CDC and GST vouchers can be seen as our dividend that we reap by paying increase GST by all population.

That's the surplus or profit from government Budget surplus every year - it is use to share with the population that is view as "shareholders" to lighten the burden of higher cost of living.

If we see it in this light, then CDC and GST vouchers will not be seen as subsidies.

If government budget is tight or economy not doing well, less or no CDC and GST vouchers - like this year, the CDC vouchers amount in fact decrease as compared to last year.

[18/07, 1:57 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

It is true that some people abuse the CDC vouchers.

But for majority, CDC and GST vouchers do help to alleviate the cost of living and help the retail and f&b stores.

[18/07, 1:58 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Singapore cost of living is now among the highest in the World.

Even American business investing in Singapore also complaining.

[18/07, 2:05 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

I think I understand your underlying concern of :-

1. Self sufficiency and less reliance on State - capitalism (LKY style).

2. Less reliance on socialism (less help from State).

I will later talk about both merits and demerits.

Capitalism in full drive Trump rebel - only elite benefits, 99% suffer. That's why Trump came out. World suffer.

So either extreme no good.

Balance capitalism and socialism is the best.

[18/07, 2:08 pm] ☸️ Danny 心: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSX5NpcMQ/

Singapore GDP per Capita PPP - highest in the world US$156k.

How to interpret this.

Total income of the whole country divide by number of Singapore residents. (Adjusted for price differential).

Not individual or household income.

[18/07, 2:10 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Singaporeans many write in to this guy to explain why Singapore per Capita GDP PPP is the highest in the World, but their individual income no where near.

Because the state earn more than individual.

They are not fully redistributed to the individual.

More people getting more and more unhappy.

[18/07, 2:11 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

But cost of living keep climbing.

So this is a danger sign

[18/07, 2:13 pm] Close friend comments:

But we are also averaging with the ultra rich flocking to sg. Averaging up with them, the figure can balloon up

[18/07, 2:14 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Yes, also partly that.

Later when I explain, you will understand.

$156,000 x 3 my family - we earn not even half.

[18/07, 2:17 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

But State earning form the majority because of productivity from AI, robotics, automation and digitalization.

Individual ultra rich didn't contribute that much.

See GIC, Temasek, mas and government fund you will know.

Close to 2 trillion already.

[18/07, 3:24 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Especially so when fresh graduates and workers in the criss cross intersection in getting and securing jobs - as AI threaten their jobs.

Only some AI savvy and elites earn alot more.

But majority still struggling - but cost of living keep climbing - no thanks to Trump tariff war and Iran war energy crisis.

If our government don't handle this carefully - we may end up like Trump - capable government lose election - but populist party like Trump take over.

We will be dead.

Later I explain the phases of economic development - go hands in hands with economic restructuring.

Moving from the Continuum of capitalism into Middle path with socialism - as economy mature as government get richer and richer, but population majority fail to keep up with automation notably AI and machine take over manpower labor force.

This is a danger sign - govt need to move into equilibrium.

Cannot stay at capitalism - govt will lose power.

If move too much to socialism - country bankrupt.

[18/07, 4:03 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Oh in fact exceed $2 trillion.

1.5 + 0.5+0.4 - already $2.4 trillion.

GDP increase from $560 billion per year to $608 billions per year.

Government very rich.

Median salary and household income though increase - but not proportional.

Now many people worry about jobs because of AI + higher cost of living due to Trump tariff and energy war.

[18/07, 4:28 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Let me explain the Stage of Economy versus Economic strategy - to ensure a Sustainable Economies + Social stability + Political stability to a Country.

Stage 1 - Undeveloped

1. During 1965s after Independence - LKY times - State very poor, no money, negligible tax as people very poor, act as coolie..

2. Hence, Economic model - must be Capitalism - encourage individual enterprising, work hard, self sufficient, earn income - don't depends on State for welfare as State very poor.

3. Hence full capitalism become the primary Economic drivers.

[18/07, 4:29 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Stage 2 - Developing

1. As the Economy become better through trade, ports, individual enterpriess and business thriving - Nationalisation become dominant - eg. establishing Big Statutory Board to drive industrial functions by pooling talents, resources and money to build tech capabilities eg. NCB, TDB, Keppel Corp, TAS, Sembcorp, SIA, CPF etc.

2. Now LKY cabinet is not miser - some subsidies are given such as school subsidies, health subsidies, welfare for those underprivilege and disabled and elderly - to give them fishing rod to fish but also provide some financial assistance to tie through their immediate needs - to put food on the table.

3. So strong Capitalism (an antedote 90%) and Socialism (10%) - so LKY cabinet do have Compassion as Economy are doing better - not full Capitalism.

In a democracy, if don't have Socialism, those at the bottom of the rung - will throw protest votes - and PAP can lose power.

[18/07, 4:29 pm] ☸️ Danny 心:

Staged 3 - Moderate Developed

1. With Nationalisation mature - State technical competency very strong, private sector too weak - taxpayers pay considerable tax to sustain Nationlisation, Economy reach the Apex - cannot grow further - hence the concept of Corporatisation - to release the talents and the State Enterprise to become GLCs to fuel the domestic economy and venture into International market to further grow the Economy is essential --- hence Globalisation become the norm

2. Hence GLCs is formed such as NCS, Singtel, ST Engineering, SIA, Keppel Corp, Sembcorp, PSA Corp, Surbana, Comfort Delgro, SBS Transit, DBS/POSB etc etc.

The Elites and enterprising ones - pull far far ahead, many fall into the middle, the rest drop to the bottom rung.

3. Hence Capitalism proportion must shrink to share the fruits of Globalisation - else will end up like US - elites 1% billionaires dominate 90% of the economy, the rest 99% share the 10% of the wealth as Socialism is not in US DNA - Raw Capitalism - rich become very rich, poor become very poor.

Maga and Trump rear their heads, tear down Institutions, become populists, shun Globalisation that make them rich - because the elite 1% not willing to redistribute wealth to the majority 99% - the majority revolt and throw out competent Globalisation govenment and vote in populist Maga Government - Trump and mess up the World.

[18/07, 4:46 pm] ☸️ Danny 心: Stage 3 - Highly Developed

1. Now Singapore GDP PPP per capita - is the highest in the World US$156,000 per person - whereby Singaporeans individual median income is $5,775 per month or $69,300 per year or household income $12,446 per month or $149,352 per year

2. Singapore individual earn slighly less than 50% of GDP PPP per capita - though ultra rich will earn more - majority are State earned - looking at the Sovereign Fund that the State reap - more than $2.4 trillion.

3. So elites are indeed reaping a much higher income as AI, Digitalisation, Automation, Robotics increase productivity leap and bound, while many in the middle and lower rung falll further behind - because we have now reach an inflection point whereby the elites exploit AI, Digitalisation, Automation and Robotics proficiently earning big money and income - while the rest struggle to land fresh entry jobs and those at work struggle to learn AI.

4. Hence Capitalism must quickly slide to the Middle (Middle Path 中道) to ensure AI, automation will not lead to an elongated Economic and Social Status whereby the rich become very rich and the rest fail to catch up.

Socialism must slide upwards in the form of Government Grants and transfers such as GST vouchers, CDC vouchers and other transfer - especially when Economy are doing well - while majority did not get to share the fruits of the Economic Growth - while Government must provide the means of boosting lower and middle group capabilities of mastering their fishing rods - AI capable skill to help themselves to feed themselves and not fully rely on the States.

Only when the lower and middle group acquire such capabilities as before - can Government not provide more socialist transfer of wealth - especially when the Economy is now under stress from higher cost of living from Trump's tariff, energy war + the double whammy of AI disruption.

Government must do the AI transformation and Geopolitical trigger economic transformation well - to ensure the top, middle and lower group regain equilibrium.

Else a capable government could lose its power and up come the Maga like Trunp populist government that will destroy Singapore.

No joke.

====

Thursday, July 16, 2026

REACH (Telegram) 149 - What are your thoughts on the workforce transformation exercise by Govtech?

(SK)

16 Jul 2026 (10am - 7pm)

REACH (Telegram)

[16/7/2026 9:45 am] REACH Singapore: Dear Contributors,