REACH 127 - President Halimah Parliament 2020 speech (SK)

25 Aug 2020 (2pm - 8pm)

REACH

[1:52 pm, 25/08/2020] +: Dear contributors

Welcome back!  😃

 ⏰ Chats will be opened until 8pm today. ⏰

Please be reminded to be respectful and considerate to others in this WhatsApp chat group.  🙏

REACH

[2:00 pm, 25/08/2020] +: 📢Topic📢

What was your key takeaway from the Address by President Halimah Yacob? 

In her address for the first session of the Fourteenth Parliament, President Halimah Yacob spoke about the major changes in the world, and what we must do to tackle them together as a nation. She noted that the global and domestic situations have changed, and there would be no going back to the status quo. For Singapore to continue to succeed, we would need to understand the changes happening, rethink our problems and improve on the current situation. 

President Halimah Yacob outlined the Government’s directions in its new term. The various Ministries will elaborate on these plans this week, and they will be debated next week. Key items on the agenda are: Securing Jobs for Singaporeans, Building a Fair and Just Society, Strengthening our Singaporean Identity and Evolving Singapore’s Politics. 

👉 https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/president-spells-out-how-govt-will-lead-spore-in-time-of-major-change

👉 https://www.istana.gov.sg/Newsroom/Speeches/2020/08/24/Address-by-President-Halimah-Yacob-for-First-Session-of-the-Fourteenth-Parliament

👉 https://www.gov.sg/article/president-halimah-yacob-securing-our-future-in-a-different-world

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[5:14 pm, 25/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: Singapore need to reboot our air hub, tourism and external market - in order for our Economy to move back to positive territory.

Singapore need to reboot our air hub, tourism and external market - in order for our Economy to move back to positive territory.

[5:24 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Europe is my proposed 3rd target.

*I am thinking of ASEAN as my 2nd target - as part of the step up "ring-fence safe tunneling"*.

Straits Times

25 Aug 2020

S'pore, Indonesia foreign ministers to meet, discuss leaders' retreat

"They agreed to boost tie-ups in the digital economy and in the industrial parks, *tourism and infrastructure sectors, as well as strengthen the flow of trade and investments*."

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[5:54 pm, 25/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: Straits Times

Straits Times

Singapore must rethink problems, evolve policies to suit a changed world, says President Halimah at Parliament opening

PUBLISHEDAUG 24, 2020, 8:52 PM SGT

SINGAPORE - Singapore stands at a time of great change, and the country must rethink its problems and evolve its social models and policies to suit the new circumstances, President Halimah Yacob said on Monday (Aug 24).

Sketching out the challenges facing Singapore in its new chapter and the need for a renewed consensus, the president noted that the new term of Government begins under the shadow of Covid-19, *which has sharpened global fault lines and disrupted the stable international order under which Singapore has long thrived*.

The pandemic has *fuelled a new wave of protectionism and this is "especially challenging for Singapore, as we make our living by doing business with the world*," she said in her speech outlining the Government's plans and policies in its new term.

"*For Singapore to continue to succeed, we need to understand these changes in our external and domestic environments, rethink our problems and improve on our status quo*," said Madam Halimah.

For instance, *Singapore could not take its hub status for granted*. There was an urgent need to transform the economy and push for sustainable growth and a greener future.

---

(1) The President has accurately pointed out that the virus pandemic has greatly skew and impact the external market, the travel and relationship among overseas Countries - which many are our vital stakeholders --- that fuel our External Economy (which make up of 3 times the size of our GDP for growth).

(2) The virus pandemic has caused a sesimic halt to our External Economy - causing a negative 5 to 7% GDP growth - as overseas Countries are unable to travel, tours, fly and do business --- with many lockdown due to pandemic.

(3) However, I feel that the pandemic will soon come to an end in 1 to 2 years time - when vaccines will finally emerged and stop the rampant virus damage to the World Economy.

(4) What is a more worrying trend -- that greatly disrupt our External Economy - is the sesimic SuperPower geopolitical tussle --- that are tearing World collaboration and cooperation apart that may cause more damaging impacts to our External market, global supply chain, tech development, trade relationship and global finance.

(5) This development is already hitting our external economy - before the covid strike.

(6) While we regroup and reboot our policies to tackle the impact cause by the virus pandemic --- which i feel the virus effect will be short term - maybe another a year or 2 - the virus effect will subside and dies off when vaccines and treatment emerge ---- the Superpower geopolitical tussle - that tear the Global economy, trade, investment, technology, breaking up internet, social media into 2, finance, travel wtc- will be more damaging to Singapore and the World.

(7) Having say so, we need to understand the root cause of the Superpower geopolitical tussle - is it :-

a. Personal indiscretion - where a person is more interested to be elected than to govern - and picking up an adversary to be the "whipping boy" - to win election?

b. Or is it something more structural and more deep seated --- that is the widespread consistent views of the lawmakers.

(8) Understanding the underlying reasons and root cause of the Superpower geopolitical tussle - will determine how we reboot, regroup our policies to transform our Economy and propel our growth into positive territory - and navigate the rough seas amidst the geopolitical rough sea.

(9) A narrative emerge after observing the many US sanctions taken against China - trade war, tech company sanctions etc.

- "The real reason why US want to economically strangle China - not because of communism.

But because China do too well economically in finance, as manufacturing hub, in silk road, in technology development, in trade, in global supply chain, in social media etc."

- "China has beaten US in its game of capitalism - and outclass US in many aspects that US previously reign supreme.

Communism is just a label use by US to unify US calling of the West to stand by its side to sanction China in a bid to blunt China's advancement and development."

(10) If the above narrative hold true --- Singapore will need to fine tune our foreign policies, trade policies, external economy etc --- to take into account the sesimic geopolitical tussle ---- "not just confine to the impact cause by virus pandemic only".

(11) Because whoever the new Leader elected - the above narratives - will translate into more hostile external environment to operate cause by geopolitical tension and not by virus pandemic (which is short term).

(12) The President speech did not cover this -- but understandably, diplomatically is not appropriate to do so.

But behind the public, the civil service and the Government - must take into account this development - which is more damaging to our External Economy than the short term virus pandemic.

================

CNA

12 of 14 workers on Scoot flight from Singapore to Tianjin who tested positive for COVID-19 were 'no longer infectious': MOH

By Davina Tham

25 Aug 2020 07:52PM (Updated: 25 Aug 2020 08:00PM)

MOH said on Tuesday in response to CNA queries that 12 of the 14 workers have recovered. It added that these workers may continue to shed viral fragments for "weeks or even months" after infection, which may lead to positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test results.

"However, there is no evidence to suggest that these remnant viral fragments are infectious, and studies so far have failed to culture viable virus from these patient samples, indicating that these individuals are *no longer infectious and are thus safe for travel*," the health ministry said.

*Singapore is in contact with Chinese authorities for further information* about the remaining two cases, and investigations are ongoing.

Singapore's discharge process for COVID-19 patients is "robust", and the guidelines are *"more stringent" than those recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), said MOH*.

According to a *time-based discharge criteria adopted by MOH*, COVID-19 patients in Singapore who are assessed to be clinically well by day 21 of the illness can be discharged. The new criteria was announced by Health Minister Gan Kim Yong on May 28.

COVID-19 patients who are discharged under the new criteria will have to remain at home or at dormitories for another seven days before they *can return to work after day 28 of their illness*, Mr Gan had said.

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[1:27 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Singapore adopt time based discharged after 28 days of infection if my memory serves me correctly.

So even though a test may reveal the virus, they are no longer infectious.

This is in line with WHO endorsement.

I think we need to get more information from China authority and synch with our tests on these few infected people - before we jump into conclusion.

[1:30 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

If I am not wrong, China did not adopt the time based discharged WHO recommendations.

Singapore, Germany and some other countries adopted it.

[1:32 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Time based discharged is discovered by Singapore and seconded by Germany and subsequently confirmed and endorsed by WHO.

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REACH 126 - Opening Parliament 2020 - Boost our Economy amid covid (SK)

24 Aug 2020 (12pm - 10pm)

REACH

[12:20 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Dear contributors

Welcome back!  😃

 ⏰ Chats will be opened until 10pm today. ⏰

Please be reminded to be respectful and considerate to others in this WhatsApp chat group.  🙏

REACH

[12:21 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Singapore’s 14th Parliament will hold its very first sitting this evening. President Halimah Yacob will deliver the President’s Address to the new term of Parliament and set out the Government’s priorities and long term plans, with a focus on how we will tackle the healthcare and economic impact of COVID-19. The proceedings will be telecast live at 8pm tonight. 

In the following days, each Ministry will explain its policies and programmes to support the proposed directions, after which Members of Parliament have five days to debate on the directions and policies and the Government will respond.

👉https://go.gov.sg/24augpresaddress

👉https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/younger-more-diverse-parliament-faces-jobs-challenge-covid-19-13045600

+ changed this group's settings to allow all participants to send messages to this group.

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CQ

[12:37 pm, 24/08/2020] +: https://mothership.sg/2020/08/scoot-passengers-tianjin-covid-19/

We're now "exporting" cases.....

CQ

[12:40 pm, 24/08/2020] +: 🤷🏻‍♀️ Not like it matters to China... We frigging just exported 13 positive cases to them!

[12:41 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Any country would be miffed lah...

[1:09 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

This group of people could be Chinese national workers staying in dorms, got infected but recover and still have anti-bodies.

Thus tests will reveal positive.

CQ

[1:12 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Yes, likely dorm residents. But just saying that it doesn't look good from an optics perspective especially internationally.

Ken

[1:12 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Need to know what their relationship, if from same dormitory or worksite

[1:12 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Don’t look good for us 😅

Alvin

[1:14 pm, 24/08/2020] +: I doubt the PRC medical team that dumb to test for antigens only. I’m sure they are tested for existing virus as well and hence got flagged out by their authorities.

Rama

[1:17 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Possibly

SL

[1:20 pm, 24/08/2020] +: 😱

Rama

[1:23 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Remember,  no country is out of the woods yet, even more so with no vaccine!

[1:27 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Singapore adopt time based discharged after 28 days of infection if my memory serves me correctly.

So even though a test may reveal the virus, they are no longer infectious.

This is in line with WHO endorsement.

I think we need to get more information from China authority and synch with our tests on these few infected people - before we jump into conclusion.

[1:30 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

If I am not wrong, China did not adopt the time based discharged WHO recommendations.

Singapore, Germany and some other countries adopted it.

[1:32 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Time based discharged is discovered by Singapore and seconded by Germany and subsequently confirmed and endorsed by WHO.

[2:06 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Singapore economy is not possible to move into positive territory if we depend on our domestic economy alone.

Because our domestic market of 5.6 million is too small.

And we don't have domestic air travel because our land space is too small.

We need external market, trade, international travel, foreign investment etc - before our economy can move back into positive territory.

I will not be surprised that the parliament will put forward policies on surgical, systematic, safe opening up of our air hub, air travel, access to external market etc - to boost our business and create jobs.

Rama

[2:07 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Agree

Valli

[2:16 pm, 24/08/2020] +: What is there to be shocked about?

We are seeing increasing imported cases, likewise can expect more ‘exported’ cases also. 

My concern why allow this to happen? Why are there no testing done? If we see imported cases , the people on the flight are all at risk.

CQ

[2:29 pm, 24/08/2020] +: It's not a shock. Just a "how can dis be allow" react. I'm sure that SG authorities would've explained our methodology to the chinese authorities, but it doesn't look good optically because internationally, they wouldn't care about our segregation of dorm vs community numbers, all they're seeing is that SG has 50k+ cases in total and everyday adding like 100 or so. They don't care about our testing strategies and how we've kept our community numbers low. All they'll see is "wah so many... And eh, they're exporting their cases to us!!"

So not saying that there cannot be air commute. Just that I think our SG authorities probably have a lot more work on their plates trying to explain if these are recovered cases or if they're part of the time-based discharge cases. Destination countries can then determine what to do with this information, probably quarantine or choose to trust our SG methodology that these people have been cleared.

[2:34 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

In other words, I propose the "ring-fence" approach to air travel, tours, green lanes, MICE etc - that includes testing, safe distancing, segregation of overseas travellers from local community, isolation, quarantine - from airport, transit areas, hotels, tourists spots, f&b, retail, tour bus, convention areas, meeting place, event halls etc - to reboot our economy.

MOT Ong YK call it the "air bubbles" or "air corridors".

I hope parliament can provide more details on this aspect - and how it will help to reboot our external economy and travel - albeit doing it safely and no cross infection into our local community.

Caleb

[2:38 pm, 24/08/2020] +: 👍

[2:44 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Think of another term - "safe tunneling" or  "ring-fence" Vs "air bubbles" or "air corridors".

Blue and White Flag Guy

[2:45 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Not gonna agree with safe tunneling, what are you, boring tunnels?

Alvin

[2:48 pm, 24/08/2020] +: There’s this movie called Bubble Boy. Basically a boy without any immune system whatsoever and lives his life inside the bubble. Until he starts to have an immunity, then he manages to come out from it. 

That’s what we are trying to do here with “air bubbles”. Basically all countries should have their own air bubbles and only those inside these bubbles can travel and mingle around with others from their own bubbles as well.

Blue and White Flag Guy

[2:49 pm, 24/08/2020] +: I know that reference from Seinfeld lol

en

[2:50 pm, 24/08/2020] +: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/manpower/bilateral-agreements-have-not-jeopardised-employment-opportunities-for

Rama

[2:52 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Not totally convinced.

Alvin

[2:54 pm, 24/08/2020] +: The key problem is the “bubble” is only as strong as the people who are let inside.

[2:55 pm, 24/08/2020] +: If it’s compromised, the entire system will fail.

Rama

[2:56 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Agree

Blue and White Flag Guy

[2:56 pm, 24/08/2020] +: We should be on our safe side, let's not forget that the virus is still invisible

Rama

[2:57 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Yes

CQ

[2:58 pm, 24/08/2020] +: If only it's visible, like if it glows radioactive green or something! 🤣

Blue and White Flag Guy

[2:59 pm, 24/08/2020] +: You get my point, as compared to SARS.

Alvin

[3:00 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Hence why I disagree to the 28 days discharge even if still have the virus.

[3:01 pm, 24/08/2020] +: We might be honorable but can we trust others to uphold the same standards

[3:02 pm, 24/08/2020] +: I’m sure why China doesn’t allow this is that their local provincial officers might chop stamp for those infected that they have been quarantined for 28 days

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:02 pm, 24/08/2020] +: This programme has the potential to uproot relations if care isn't taken

CQ

[3:02 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Yah... It's the asymptomatic ones that pose the risk to vulnerable people in our midst. Even if death rate is 0.001, it still means that 1 person may die out if every 1000 kena. And at risk of sounding like a prick, the question is always "are you prepared for that 1 person to be your loved one?"

Avin

[3:02 pm, 24/08/2020] +: But in actual fact they haven’t

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:03 pm, 24/08/2020] +: We're all too awfully familiar with the blame game, let's never stoop to that level again

Alvin

[3:03 pm, 24/08/2020] +: So their policy comes from national level and all have to follow

SL

[3:11 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Let say everyone (included visitor) in Singapore wearing a tracker (tamper-proof), any cases can be pickup and isolated timely, will it be useful? Then we can open up our border

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:12 pm, 24/08/2020] +: It'd be nice but it's kinda equivalent to what people say as dehumanising?

[3:16 pm, 24/08/2020] +: This sort of tracker would be expensive to manufacture so again with my previous opinion of the pocket-sized tracker for those without smartphones, let's only produce this tamper-proof tracker for those who do not have TraceTogether-enabled smartphones 

This would curb the expense of the manufacture and not result in an overly expensive plan. Then, we can begin with a small group of foreign visitors and increase this group size per intake slowly but not too quickly - careful to monitor the situation and results before moving on to the next marker 

Always start small, lesser chances of actually screwing up

[3:19 pm, 24/08/2020] +65 9689 8146: Many people warn against moving back to lockdowns but for this plan, we must not be afraid of going back. 

I cite an example from Shanghai Metro where they had a capacity cap of 50% then this rose to 100% eventually, but dropped back down to 80% when a case was discovered 

I am not encouraging a Melbourne or Auckland-style lockdown where we have to go back to CB but I'm encouraging the thought to backtrack when necessary, especially since this is part of a plan that is outside of our bubble.

Avin

[3:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: I agree with this

SL

[3:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Without gadget, very hard to track movement, phone can be turn off or run out of battery.

Alvin

[3:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: We can have mini Circuitbreaker if infection rises

[3:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Red zone orange zone etc

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Would you rather we spend another sum of money excessively?

Alvin

[3:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Like dengue

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Like Dengue

[3:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Hell yes

[3:23 pm, 24/08/2020] +: That would be like Melbourne I think, where the apartments were locked down

SL

[3:26 pm, 24/08/2020] +: i thought it is $10 per piece, if it work, it would be great.

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:27 pm, 24/08/2020] +: $10 as in cost of manufacture or stipulated retail price?

CQ

[3:28 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Thing is that for dengue, mozzies are the vectors and they have a certain distance of travel. You can't stop humans from moving around, even during CB there were people who couldn't be trusted not to go out unnecessarily. For AU and NZ, they're big enough that they can lockdown by zone. In SG, you can't lock down by zone because we don't have borders per se, it'll be damn hard to control.

SL

[3:28 pm, 24/08/2020] +: No idea, it was reported in newspaper that the price per piece may dropped from $20 to $10 with volumnous order

Alvin

[3:28 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Ppl see colours will be more inclined to follow instructions

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:28 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Not too difficult if we choose to go with one standard and one only

Alvin

[3:29 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Red zone you see liao uturn go home

[3:29 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Update the zones regularly and it’s likely internal “air bubble”

[3:29 pm, 24/08/2020] +: *like

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:30 pm, 24/08/2020] +: If this zoning system is to be established, information should be first made available through a wheregotbubble website or something (you get the idea) so people don't have to go the area, see red then kebelakang pusing

CQ

[3:30 pm, 24/08/2020] +: eh hard to say wor..... many people hold the the "aiyah, won't so suay one lah" mentality

[3:31 pm, 24/08/2020] +: actually we can make reference to the crowd indicator which was done up for the parks and malls. even when it shows crowded, people still go what

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:32 pm, 24/08/2020] +: That's because you're still part of the "Singaporeans are disobedient" mentality

[3:33 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Even I have abandoned that thought, we should all do our research to understand how we can interpret human behaviour and what we can do to manipulate that for the greater good

[3:33 pm, 24/08/2020] +: How can we be sure that everyone uses that website all the time? I don't.

CQ

[3:34 pm, 24/08/2020] +: yah. i do agree that majority would be law abiding and behave for the greater good. but not every one would be, and we have to factor that part of human behaviour into the policy decisions lor.

SL

[3:34 pm, 24/08/2020] +: asyptomatic patient do not have obvious clinical signs, are is refering to the red zone locked down? Are those in red zone allow to come out?

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:35 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Everyone was utter 💩 at first but eventually many understood the reason for wearing masks and keeping clean 

This took a few weeks or for some up to a month to adapt - it's really about adapting

CQ

[3:37 pm, 24/08/2020] +: and there was a lot of effort put into enforcement! but is that level of enforcement sustainable? i dunno. maybe that goes towards part of "job creation".

Valli

[3:37 pm, 24/08/2020] +: With the slowdown in jobs, MOM should look into the excess in permit holders by Subcons. 

Employers may push out their workers to job sites causing an overflow of manpower at sites indirectly affecting the SMM measures. 

Tendency for employers in order to complete their delayed jobs, to rush more dorm guys to a site than actually required.

Rama

[3:37 pm, 24/08/2020] +: New Covid-19 cluster in Kaki Bukit dormitory https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/new-covid-19-cluster-in-kaki-bukit-dormitory?&utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=social-media&utm_campaign=addtoany

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:37 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Definitely created some jobs for people

Valli

[3:38 pm, 24/08/2020] +: And most of these guys have already gone out to work.

SL

[3:38 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Can the safe entry apps upgraded with geo fencing feature first before new website? when a person left a safe entry premises, the app will auto lockout so that the data will be much more clearner and assist the authority in tracking

CQ

[3:39 pm, 24/08/2020] +: definitely! but can it be a career? well........ the existing SDA/enforcement officers' job scope is mindnumbing to say the least. so probably with a better job description, it can be a new class of officers under NEA!

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:39 pm, 24/08/2020] +: I like this idea, everyone keeps forgetting to check out but it's not really a habit yet

SL

[3:40 pm, 24/08/2020] +: it will be great if it is an effective enforcement. Job creation for enforcement work will it effective?

[3:41 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Couples of time logout next days, the data set for sure is contaminated and no longer useful, it created too much noice in the analysis

CQ

[3:41 pm, 24/08/2020] +: there are different classes of enforcement officers utilised by the various govt agencies, so this might be another category?

Blue and White Flag Guy

[3:41 pm, 24/08/2020] +: We can't blame ourselves, everyone forgets about checking out from time to time but yes, having that geofenced thing would be nice though difficult to implement

SL

[3:45 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Yes, can start with those group going thru basic traning then roll out to other group

Rama

[3:45 pm, 24/08/2020] +: https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/getting-vaccinated-against-diseases-such-as-influenza-especially-important-amid-covid-19?utm_medium=social&utm_source=telegram&utm_campaign=sttg

[3:46 pm, 24/08/2020] +: 😟😞

REACH

[3:47 pm, 24/08/2020] +: 51 new Covid-19 cases in Singapore, including 1 in the community and 7 imported

There were 51 new coronavirus cases confirmed as of Monday noon (Aug 24), taking Singapore's total to 56,404.

They included one community case, a Singaporean, said the Ministry of Health.

There were also seven imported cases who had been placed on stay-home notices upon arrival in Singapore.

More: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/51-new-covid-19-cases-in-singapore-including-1-in-the-community-and-7-imported

REACH

[3:48 pm, 24/08/2020] +: [Sent by Gov.sg –  24 Aug]

As of 12pm, MOH has preliminarily confirmed an additional 51 cases of COVID-19 infection in Singapore.

Based on investigations so far, there is 1 case in the community (1 Singaporean).

In addition, there are 7 imported cases who had been placed on Stay-Home Notice upon arrival in Singapore.

MOH will share further updates in its press release that will be issued later tonight.

go.gov.sg/moh24augupdate

Alvin

[3:51 pm, 24/08/2020] +: It’s up to authorities to decide

[3:52 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Probably visits to those red zones are highly discouraged

[3:52 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Pax in red zone can swab test and travel our if not infected

[3:52 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Just an idea

SL

[3:54 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Just a thought, If asyptomatic carrier running around the island, it will led to red zone in the whole Singapore

[3:55 pm, 24/08/2020] +: https://www.google.com.sg/amp/s/www.bloomberg.com/amp/news/articles/2020-08-21/hong-kong-to-start-virus-testing-blitz-of-whole-city-on-sept-1 😅

Alvin

[4:06 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Nope zone colours shouldn’t turn just cos there’s one case

[4:06 pm, 24/08/2020] +: It must be a cluster

[4:07 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Like those dormitory cases

[4:10 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Colours also help ppl to know if their zone is escalated

[4:10 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Eg green to yellow to orange to red

[4:12 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Can also have restrictions like if green can have 50pax inside restaurant but orange can only have XX amount

[4:12 pm, 24/08/2020] +: People will want their zones to be covid free and will work together

Caleb

[4:14 pm, 24/08/2020] +: https://infographics.channelnewsasia.com/covid-19/singapore-map-places-visited-by-community-cases.html

Here got the map, pin in red color

[5:01 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Our tourism and air hub use to generate $25 billion to our economy every year.

Can we target a step up approach to hit $10 billion first.

Then 3 months later to $15 billion.

Another 3 months to $20 billion.

And then finally to $25 billion by using:-

1. "Ring-fence" air bubbles - from each events at each place of activities.

2. "Safe tunneling" air corridors - end to end tunneling approach from airport, to various places like hotels, food, tourists spots and back home.

[5:05 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

A variety of technologies ( eg. SafeEntry for overseas travellers, contact tracing, movement tracking etc), physical cordoning, organised tours via "virtual safe tunneling approach" - segregated from local community - so that there are no cross infection.

But yet can boost our external economy and travel and air hub.

[5:18 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Eg. We can start with China first - our huge tourists market.

China top foreign diplomat is visiting us soon, we can sell our above concept to China from their various provinces to us and vice versa.

By doing so, I think we can hit the first $10 billion.

[5:19 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

China is also the only country in the world with positive GDP.

Imagine the strength of their huge domestic market.

CQ

[5:19 pm, 24/08/2020] +: https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/chinas-top-diplomat-calls-on-pm-lee-hsien-loong-and-dpm-heng-swee-keat-during-visit

I thought he came and gone already?

[5:20 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Oh dear, did we miss him.

CQ

[5:21 pm, 24/08/2020] +: not sure if this is the same guy you're talking about or there's another diplomat coming

[5:22 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Yes I think he is the guy.

I miss this news.

Dong Liang

[5:23 pm, 24/08/2020] +: The top diplomat is going to Europe tommorrow

[5:24 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Europe is my proposed 3rd target.

I am thinking of ASEAN as my 2nd target - as part of the step up "ring-fence safe tunneling".

Dong Liang

[5:24 pm, 24/08/2020] +: The one came to Singapore last week is top diplomat's predecessor and also his current boss.

[8:53 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

*“Much of our economy thrives because we have made ourselves a vibrant hub for the region and an attractive place for trade, investments, talent and ideas. We cannot take our hub status for granted, or assume that its scope and role will remain the same.”

Singapore will resume air travel safely to maintain its role as a global and regional hub,* and strengthen digital connectivity, helping companies develop their links to new markets. 

“Our efforts to fortify our resilience in critical areas like food, healthcare and supply chain management can become new sources of growth,” she said.

REACH

[9:17 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Singapore must rethink problems, evolve policies to suit a changed world, says President Halimah at Parliament opening

https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/presidents-address-singapore-must-rethink-problems-evolve-policies-to-suit-a-changed-world

Ben

[9:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Good. Let's not go down the path of blaming 'foreigners' and becoming an inward looking nation!

[9:22 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Agreed

[9:23 pm, 24/08/2020] +: Yes, jobs are critical to a stable, growing, safe society.

[9:26 pm, 24/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Singapore stands at a time of great change, and the country must rethink its problems and evolve its social models and policies to suit the new circumstances, President Halimah Yacob said on Monday (Aug 24).

For instance, Singapore could not take its hub status for granted. There was an urgent need to transform the economy and push for sustainable growth and a greener future.

The Government will be open to constructive criticism, rational debate and a new way of doing things, while the Opposition should propose policy alternatives to be scrutinised and debated besides raising questions and criticisms, she said.

Madam Halimah pledged that the Government will evolve its policies, recognising that no solutions are right for all time, and will listen to new ideas objectively. But where staying the course remains the best way forward, it will convince Singaporeans to persevere.

Securing jobs for Singaporeans will remain the Government's top priority for the next few years, but it must also ensure the benefits of progress are shared widely with all citizens, she said.

REACH 125 - Startups provide jobs during covid (SK)

21 Aug 2020 (12pm - 8pm)

REACH

[11:41 am, 21/08/2020] +: Dear contributors,

Welcome back! 😊

⏰ Chats will be opened from 12pm to 8pm today. ⏰

Please be reminded to be respectful and considerate to others in this WhatsApp chat group. 🙏🏼

The topic will be posted shortly

+ changed this group's settings to allow all participants to send messages to this group.

REACH

[12:00 pm, 21/08/2020] +: 📢 Topic 📢

What do you think of the enhanced Startup SG Founder programme to boost new innovative startups that will create jobs? 

Thousands of jobs in start-up firms are on offer as they diversify their fields and get help to spread their wings.

"These opportunities offered by start-ups are wide-ranging and diverse," said Manpower Minister Josephine Teo yesterday, during a visit to The Greenhouse at Singapore Management University's Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

She highlighted that the start-up scene in Singapore is brimming with potential and is a source of job growth that can potentially expand, with support from the Jobs Growth Incentive, a scheme which provides support to employers who can grow their local headcount over the next six months.

👉 https://www.straitstimes.com/business/thousands-of-jobs-on-offer-in-growing-start-up-sector

👉 https://www.facebook.com/175816112470380/posts/3480802185305073/

👉 https://www.facebook.com/123724534368517/posts/4229796717094591/

+ changed the group description. Click to view.

[12:04 pm, 21/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

My comments -

"SIA is now burning money.

Analysts say that airlines can only rebounds 2024 - 4 years later.

Now barely a few months, all money raised $8 over billion - half have been used up.

https://sg.yahoo.com/news/singapore-air-burns-through-half-of-cash-raised-in-two-months-022446513.html

My close friend contribution :-

SIA can explore this :-

Instead of visiting the airport, visitors also take a fake air flight with in-flight meal.

Not a bad idea as airlines can also earn revenue through such passenger visit.

Revenue not great but in support of SIA, enjoy a meal enjoy in flight entertainment. Can also have fake captain announcements.

A whole package approach -

And this is package with sg local tours and staycation initiatives.

Check in thru changi airport, board flight, enjoy meal, in flight entertainment, "disembark" received by local tour guides, check into sg hotels. Etc

Impt to invoke nationalistic response to help sg companies and businesses

Asian financial crisis, south Koreans aunties and grannies donated their gold jewelleries

My comments :-

It makes sense and visitors will feel like going for holiday.

[12:04 pm, 21/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

My close friend comments :-

Taiwan also have similar initiatives.

https://www.scmp.com/news/china/society/article/3095637/taiwanese-airlines-offer-fun-flights-japan-dont-expect-land

Vali

[12:06 pm, 21/08/2020] +: I just hope that these jobs created by these startups go to Singaporeans.

Boon

[12:06 pm, 21/08/2020] +: MOM's focus is very admirable and encouraging. Thank you. Singapore entrepreneurs actually would need IT developers support - and they don't come cheap. Could the $$ have greater utility and benefits if the $$ went to creating a pool of technical experts and coders who can help non-IT entrepreneurs to get their ideas off the ground?

Ken

[12:08 pm, 21/08/2020] +: We have to understand that start up only a few will make it, hence a lot of money have to be pump in. 

Like 3M we are trying to build such culture 

https://hbr.org/amp/2013/08/the-innovation-mindset-in-acti-3

To hope that to lay down the foundation for such mindset, as most parents would want their kids not to dream but to get a decent MNC job.

Boon

[12:12 pm, 21/08/2020] +: SGD50K in a single grant can't help to recruit or even sub-contract developer resources esp in Singapore where coding abilities are already scarce from the decades of offshoring and outsourcing; and from observations and discussions, there are not many Singaporeans who wants to code.  New entrepreneurs need to be paired with execution (coding/delivery) capabilities for their ideas to reach the 1st stage of Minimum Viable Product. I would suggest to MOM and MTI to adopt the lack of coders/programmers as a problem statement to solve, and to perhaps create a pool of coders that entrepreneurs can draw on. The availability of these scarce resources can help boost the survivability of new ideas, and public money can be deployed with clearer/greater impact criteria.

Girl

[12:15 pm, 21/08/2020] +: this is only for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas.. however there are many startups such as bakeries and eateries that may not be innovative new products but also viable and sustainable in the long term.

[12:16 pm, 21/08/2020] +: government should also open up the grant to businesses which may not be innovative, but can be commercially viable, with proper monitoring controls in place to prevent the misuse of funds

[12:20 pm, 21/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Provide grants is useful only very short term benefits.

Most important, gov should help to provide access to market local and overseas, buy their products or tie the start up to big enterprise to help them market their products to big overseas markets - then startups can grow.

Boon

[12:20 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Agreed!

[12:21 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Start-up partner with established companies to go overseas and expand.

[12:21 pm, 21/08/2020] +: This is what MTI can do.

Rama

[12:21 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Yes

[12:24 pm, 21/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: Eg. 

When govt pull trips to China, it pull only big GLCs.

This GLCs can identify promising startups to partner them and market their products in solutioning as well as provide resources to them like coders, marketing etc.

Both GLCs and startups benefits - as there will be more diverse products offerings.

Stella

[12:26 pm, 21/08/2020] +: This is interesting. I used to enjoy weekend Cruise- to-nowhere for visual breaks away from the city bustles. It would be interesting to have flights-to-nowhere with great scenery. Prefer meals on board, and visual entertainment-on-board are complementary to the marketing story for a more meaningful and memorable flight.

[12:27 pm, 21/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Great you like my close friend ideas.

anfan

[12:30 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Read an article on Today, talking about leisure travel to Maldives. That is a good idea.

Ben

[12:32 pm, 21/08/2020] +6: "Instead of visiting the airport, visitors also take a fake air flight with in-flight meal." That's really bad for the environment though....

Rama

[12:33 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Okay

Ben

[12:33 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Maybe tours of planes, cockpit pilot seat and other attractions. Bring simulators to the airport. Give people a great experience. Changi also a good attraction.

[12:34 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Reality is that Airline business needs a huge rethink for the next 4 years.

Rama

[12:34 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Agree

Ben

[12:35 pm, 21/08/2020] +: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2020/aug/19/heathrow-rapid-covid-test-centre-could-replace-quarantine

Elena

[12:35 pm, 21/08/2020] +: We also can fly to nowhere like Taiwan.

Ben

[12:36 pm, 21/08/2020] +: We need to figure out how to get people in and out safely. 2 day quarantine would help a lot.

Rama

[12:36 pm, 21/08/2020] +: On silkair/scoot!?

Elena

[12:37 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Ya, and probably with a 5 course meal as well during the fly to nowhere.

Rama

[12:39 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Cost!?

Alvin

[12:45 pm, 21/08/2020] +: (Sorry for belated comments)

It’s good that we are spending to aid trouble sector. However, it’s best not to put too much financial support on the aviation sector for now. It’s still a long way for recovery and even if we reopen to tourists, they might not even come (or their countries impose restrictions, etc). 

JSS and CSG should be extended till a proper vaccination is found and even then, recovery won’t come so quickly. The SingapoRediscover voucher is a good initiative to kickstart local consumption for tourism. Another initiative we could look at is to boost local consumption of arts and entertainment (minus nightclubs).

We would need to plan ahead as well. Like with the dorms being cleared but are getting reinfected and workers are tested once every 14 days (there’s a big risk there). I pity them but it would be prudent to get them to wear masks even in the dorm areas (they can take it off when inside their own dorm or eating etc). Looking forward, reducing the number of workers per room is also crucial.

Finally, now is a good time for our leaders to give us a vision for the future. Set an almost unattainable goal (eg. Sending our own astronaut to ISS, Fusion Power Tech, insert other futuristic visions here) that will excite and inspire us to see beyond this current crisis and motivation to push ahead.

My 2.14 cents

----

Rama

[12:46 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Agree

Dong Liang

[12:55 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Kidzania 2.0

Alvin

[1:03 pm, 21/08/2020] +: yes other countries already doing it, Australia and Brunei

[1:03 pm, 21/08/2020] +: I did suggested it "Air Cruise"

Rama

[1:08 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Nice choice of words

Ben

[1:18 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Maybe we can fly to different airports and experience their facilities and food.  Would make us all very happy to come home haha.

Rama

[1:18 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Worth considering

Blue and White Flag Guy

[1:48 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Air cruise might as well hop onboard one of the C-130s that fly over our heads everyday lol

Rama

[1:49 pm, 21/08/2020] +: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/only-4-per-cent-of-singaporeans-able-to-identify-all-phishing-e-mails-correctly-csa-survey?utm_source=Telegram&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=STTG

[1:53 pm, 21/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Most important let SIA, silkair and scoot got revenue and income coming in to sustain their day to day expenses and keep them afloat.

Else if cannot fly but sit there doing nothing - money will keep burning everyday.

With such initiative, pilots, air crew, flight caterers can still operate and still got jobs.

Airlines no need to bleed.

Blue and White Flag Guy

[1:55 pm, 21/08/2020] +: If can fly but fly to nowhere, GCT's analogy of a cruise ship then?

Rama

[1:55 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Border control agreement will dictate pace of movement.

Alvin

[1:56 pm, 21/08/2020] +: It's good that our gov is investing and funding many new innovative startups. We can set up a vision and objectives now for how the future will look like. Allow me to suggest 3 areas.

1) Sustainable Food Production

Invest in a range of agriculture technology in Singapore. Farming Drones, Automated Harvesting, Environmental Sensors, etc that will boost our green sustainable food productivity with and create new entrants for Agritech companies. Imagine planting and harvesting our own strawberries 24/7.

2) Efficient Waste Disposal/Resource Extraction

With the prevalence of work from home and remote working, we seem to have generated a lot more waste compared previously. We should invest and look at more solutions of safely disposing or converting waste into usable resources like the NTU scientists that turn plastic into fuel cell using sunlight and a catalyst. Chemical technology is a rare field and we could do well if more brilliant people enter this sector and look at new ways forward for sustainable waste disposal. (I remembered reading our land fill in Pulau Semakau will fill up soon!)

3) Renewable Energy

Just in the news that the largest solar farm is starting to be built in Tuas. This is good news for us. More investment in renewable energy technology should benefit us. If there are start-ups like SolarCity that wants to be founded here to provide retail solar solutions for private home dwellers, I hope the gov will not hinder such progress. I know solar pv system is allowed below a certain megawatt but there are not many solution providers. If HDB allows it, I'm sure there will be more retail consumers and such renewable energy tech companies will grow here.

My 2.14 cents

[1:57 pm, 21/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

That's why government to government reciprocal agreement must come in.

If no agreement, all down the road - airlines, airport, air caterers, hotel, retail, f&b all cannot move and no business.

Rama

[2:06 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Definitely

---

Stella

[4:10 pm, 21/08/2020] +: just heard from friend who has been put on no pay leave due to covid 19 that he secured a part time job a Challenger.  After he started work he realised that Challenger is not short of staff but is hiring to help people.

Ken

[4:11 pm, 21/08/2020] +: 👍

Rama

[4:12 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Hugh!?

Stella

[4:13 pm, 21/08/2020] +: is that a question, Andrew?

Blue and White Flag Guy

[4:23 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Nope, not a question, he just reacts

Stella

[4:24 pm, 21/08/2020] +: oh...

Rama

[4:33 pm, 21/08/2020] +: 👌

REACH

[4:39 pm, 21/08/2020] +: 117 new COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 6 in the community

Singapore reported 117 new COVID-19 cases as of noon on Friday (Aug 21), including six in the community and 13 imported infections, said the Ministry of Health (MOH). 

Three of the community cases are Singaporeans or permanent residents, while the other three involve work pass holders, said MOH in its preliminary daily update.

The 13 imported cases had all been placed on stay-home notice after arriving in Singapore. 

More details will be announced later on Friday, the ministry added.

More: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-new-cases-aug-21-community-imported-workers-moh-13040884

Rama

[4:39 pm, 21/08/2020] +: https://mothership.sg/2020/08/dorms-cleared-now-what/

[4:44 pm, 21/08/2020] +: I came across New Covid-19 TraceTogether tokens to be manufactured and designed by two bidders: GovTech - TODAYonline using SGNews https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.sgnews.singaporenews

[4:55 pm, 21/08/2020] +: New Covid-19 TraceTogether tokens to be manufactured and designed by two bidders: GovTech https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/new-covid-19-tracetogether-tokens-be-manufactured-and-designed-two-bidders-govtech#.Xz-L5mDZ9zI.whatsapp

REACH

[5:02 pm, 21/08/2020] +: National year-end exams to proceed, students with COVID-19 or in isolation not allowed to sit for exams

The national year-end exams in Singapore will proceed amid the COVID-19 pandemic with safe management measures in place, but students who have COVID-19 or are in isolation will not be allowed to sit for the exams.

He assured parents and students that “very strict safe management measures” will be in place during the exams.

More: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/year-end-exams-covid-19-students-safe-distancing-psle-o-a-level-13041330

Anne

[5:02 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Great initiative. With many businesses shutting down and reducing staff, we will end up having too many job seekers and less employment opportunities. By creating and growing more businesses, we can have more openings for job seekers. The wealth of Singaporeans will also increase (when businesses succeed).

The $ part is very very useful. Another area the G can look into is to start or encourage networking groups. Purpose of these networking groups is not just for doing business, but also for ideas sharing and mentorship opportunities. The failure rate of businesses is high, hence it will be good for new (and also existing) entrepreneurs to make friends with other entrepreneurs to help one another.

REACH

[5:03 pm, 21/08/2020] +: FAQ: Special arrangements for the year-end national examinations

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-faq-moe-psle-o-level-a-level-n-level-exams-13041578

Rama

[5:03 pm, 21/08/2020] +: About 330 offered jobs with start-ups under SGUnited package between April and June https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/business/about-330-offered-jobs-start-ups-sgunited-package-mom-13036922#.Xz-N8KPT-FQ.whatsapp

[5:05 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Forum: Over a third refuse to return trays, clear used tissues at hawker centres https://www.straitstimes.com/forum/forum-over-a-third-refuse-to-return-trays-clear-used-tissues-at-hawker-centres?&utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=social-media&utm_campaign=addtoany

Valli

[5:10 pm, 21/08/2020] +: As more go back to work, you can expect unlink among community cases to rise.... as residents are closely working with them.

Rama

[5:14 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Definitely

Valli

[5:17 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Another factor is some companies have stopped providing company transport for workers reporting back to work & inadvertently have to join the early morning crowd in public transport to & fro from work.

REACH

[5:17 pm, 21/08/2020] +: [Sent by Gov.sg –  21 Aug]

As of 12pm, MOH has preliminarily confirmed an additional 117 cases of COVID-19 infection in Singapore.

Based on investigations so far, there are 6 cases in the community (3 Singaporeans/PRs, 3 Work Pass holders). 

In addition, there are 13 imported cases who had been placed on Stay-Home Notice upon arrival in Singapore.

MOH will share further updates in its press release that will be issued later tonight.

go.gov.sg/moh21augupdate

Anne

[5:23 pm, 21/08/2020] +: A local entrepreneur in an unpopular industry once shared this with me and some friends: His competitors from China are able to grow much faster (in terms of branding and/or providing OEM services) because their government provided A LOT of support for them, to the point where his competitors can only succeed. (OK, part of the reason is also because of IP theft.)

Rama

[5:31 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Agree IP theft!

Rama

[5:44 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Coronavirus: Singapore researchers discover new variant of virus:: https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/coronavirus-singapore-researchers-discover-new-variant-virus?utm_source=whatsapp&utm_medium=social-media&utm_campaign=addtoany

[5:44 pm, 21/08/2020] +: https://goodyfeed.com/social-distancing-abuse-power/amp/?utm_source=telegram&utm_medium=push&utm_campaign=active

Anne

[5:49 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Another way to help new businesses grow is to enhance our pool of angel investors. We can invite successful entrepreneurs who had sold their businesses and retired. We may also need to invite foreign talents. The new breed of angel investors tend to take a more active role in the running of the start ups, making them more difficult to fail.

REACH

[6:00 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Parliament opening to be held at Parliament House and Arts House

The opening of the first session of the 14th Parliament on Monday (Aug 24) will take place at Parliament House and the Arts House.

This is the first time that an opening of Parliament will be held in more than one location, the Office of the Clerk of Parliament said in a press release on Friday.

More: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/parliament-opening-covid-19-safe-distancing-arts-house-13041448

[6:36 pm, 21/08/2020] +: MCCY to pilot small-scale live performances, give additional support to arts community

Plans to resume live performances are under way, said the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) on Friday (Aug 21).

Though performing art shows and concerts ground to a halt for months during the Covid-19 crisis, MCCY and the National Arts Council (NAC) are now exploring commissioning and programming small-scale pilot performances as trial runs.

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong said: "Live performances add a buzz to our society and community. I think we all yearn to be part of a live performance.

More: https://str.sg/J7ZF

[7:05 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Lucky Plaza, Peninsula Plaza to implement odd and even date entry restrictions on weekends

Odd and even date entry restrictions will be implemented on weekends at Lucky Plaza and Peninsula Plaza from Aug 29, to better manage crowds and ensure that safe distancing can be observed, announced Minister for Health Gan Kim Yong on Friday (Aug 21). 

This means that those whose NRIC or FIN numbers end in even digits can only visit the two malls on even numbered days on weekends, while those with NRIC or FIN numbers that end in odd digits can only visit the malls on odd numbered weekend days. 

More: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-lucky-plaza-peninsula-plaza-crowded-entry-restriction-13042134

[7:08 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Some travellers from Brunei, New Zealand to Singapore not required to serve stay-home notice, will take COVID-19 test instead

Some travellers coming to Singapore from Brunei and New Zealand from Sep 1 will not be required to serve a stay-home notice but will take a COVID-19 test upon arrival instead, said the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Friday (Aug 21).

The travel advisory has also been updated to allow general travel to Brunei and New Zealand. Those visiting these two countries are advised to check the entry requirements imposed by the respective governments, as well as take the necessary precautions.

More: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-brunei-new-zealand-singapore-travel-stay-home-notice-13042146

[7:25 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Households with more than 5 people may book more than 1 table in F&B outlets; more exercise classes in open spaces

Households with more than five people who would like to dine out may book more than one table, said co-chair of the multi-ministry task force Lawrence Wong on Friday (Aug 21). 

However they should limit interaction between tables.

Members of the public should refrain from booking multiple tables for large gatherings in F&B outlets, and operators these places should not accept such reservations, said Mr Wong, who is also the Minister for Education.

More: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-mtf-households-more-than-5-may-book-more-than-1-table-13042178

[7:30 pm, 21/08/2020] +: 'Immediate priority' for new environment ministry is a cleaner Singapore amid COVID-19: Grace Fu

An "immediate priority" for the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment will be a cleaner Singapore amid the COVID-19 pandemic, said its minister Grace Fu on Friday (Aug 21).

Speaking to reporters at a virtual interview, Ms Fu said that among other things sustainability also involves raising public hygiene standards.

Previously Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Ms Fu now helms the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, formerly known as the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources. 

More: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/grace-fu-sustainability-environment-ministry-cleaning-13041522

[7:45 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Dear Contributors!

⏰ We will be closing the chat in 15 minutes* ⏰

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

Goodnight! 😴

Megan

Alvin

[7:46 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Gdnite G2ers and Megan!

REACH

[7:59 pm, 21/08/2020] +: Dear Contributors,

We will be closing the chat for today.

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

Goodnight!

Megan

+ changed the group description. Click to view.

+ changed this group's settings to allow only admins to send messages to this group.

Only admins can send messages

====

Taking stock - our successful Contributions in REACH to tackle covid-19 virus pandemic (SK)

18 Apr 2020

In total, taking stock, our successful recommendations:-

1. Non-alcohol sanitizer. (Alcohol will cause skin irritation and peel off. Also will cause alcohol poisioning if children accidentally put in the mouth. Alcohol based sanitizer may also be inflammable.)

2. Reusable washable face masks. (The most significant contribution that not only save many lives in Singapore, but also trigger Japan PM Abe from wearing it and the whole world subsequently adopt this as the most effective way to slow and curb covid infection).

3. Crowd mapping using mobile signal data and satellite GPS - spaceout and npark.

4. DSTA develop network analysis tool for contact tracing (location-based tracking).

5. PM call for circuit breaker measures - based on our highlight of increasing unlink cases.

6. Aggressive testing in dorms to weed out all infected cases (2,900 tests per day)

---

Later we are going to bring up measures to tackle unlink cases in the community.

7. Propose extend circuit breaker to another 2 weeks if the infection number in community is not zero - few days before 4 May 2020.

(After note :- PM Lee announce on 21 Apr 2020 to extend circuit breaker to another 4 weeks from 4 May 2020 to 1 Jun 2020.)

8. Aggressive testing to ramp up to include essential service workers (ramp up from 3,000 to 8,000 tests per day) - announced by Minister Gan Kim Yong and Minister Lawrence Wong on 27 Apr 2020.

9. Propose step-by-step opening up of Economic inititatives after Circuit Breaker ends echo by PM Lee, Minister Iswaran, Minister Chan Chun Sing (30 Apr 2020 - 1 May 2020)

10. Raise concern on Bluetooth Security in Tracetogether mobile apps - and Government will not make it compulsory but working with Google and Apple - to tighten Android and iOS. (2 May 2020)

11. Government adopted SafeEntry scan QR code by 12 May 2020 compulsory for people entering any malls or establishment to trace people entry. (2 May 2020)

12. Commented that Youth is wasted on the young. Now graduating cohort can start going to school 😊 (12 May 2020) (SK)

13. Propose organise testing priorities into Batches. Nursing homes testing fall into Batch 3b (25 Apr 2020) - Government announce it will test nursing homes as one of the priority batch on 2 May 2020.

(CNA

02 May 2020 09:25PM

(Updated: 02 May 2020 09:30PM)

Authorities prioritising COVID-19 testing at nursing homes, employees to be housed on-site or at hotels)

14.  Propose batch testing of workers when circuit breaker ease (25 Apr 2020) - Government announce priority testing for customer-facing staff (3 May 2020).

15. Propose virtual conferencing to negotiate RCEP and target for signing on end 2020 (30 Apr 2020) - Minister Chan Chun Sing announced in 3 May 2020) - that RCEP intense virtual meeting ongoing and likely to sign by end 2020.

16. Propose Order online and pick up later at retail - retail Giant implement (SK)

17. Proposed Psychological resiliency (Zen) to unite Singaporeans and residents (5 Feb 2020) - PM Lee speech say psychological and social resiliency is important in this fight against virus pandemic (13 Mar 2020).

18. Proposed Community spreading fall to zero or single digit before opening (25 Apr 2020) - echo by Minister Gan Kim Yong (4 May 2020)

19. Proposed to allow foreign workers to have space to walk in the sun and not confine to indoor small space (28 Apr 2020) - Colonel Chua managing isolation camps allow foreign workers to walk in the sun (6 May 2020) (SK)

20. Proposed risk based approach to tackle virus pandemic and not evidence-based approach which is reactive (10 Apr 2020). Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) - “After pre-school services fully resume, we will consider a *risk-based* testing system to protect children and staff,” an ECDA spokesperson told CNA. (14 May 2020) (SK)

21. Raise concern on skin irritation and breathe in toxin disinfectant fumes when using disinfectant chambers. WHO confirm similar concern. Temasek Foundation decide to do a trial on such concern in deployment. (SK)

22. Suggest it is the onus of business to present Government with detail plan on what safety safeguard to be put in place by each industries and each buinsess before allowing opening up in Phase 1, 2 and 3 (22 May 2020).

Minister Lawrence Wong say the same thing on 28 May 2020.

23. Post cardboard beds for easy and assemble for sick patients. Use by Government to house foreign workers doing essential services (30 May 2020). (SK)

24. I raise the issue of Bluetooth security used by Tracetogether apps. Tracetogether apps not make compulsory, wearable bluetooth dongle will be distributed to everyone. (5 Jun 2020).

25. Contribute the link on "Singapore rank 4th highest in safety risk against virus conducted by independant international study for foriegn investors" (8 Jun 2020). Report in Straits Times (10 Jun 2020) (SK)

26. Contribute pictures on the various plastic shield to protect diners in restaurant, food centres. Comfort Delgro subsidiary roll out plastic shield in Ko Fu food court to trial and will roll out to more food court if successful (10 Jun 2020) (SK)

27.  I commented that IT security must be the core of any National IT system roll out to the public. I am refering to the Tracetogether mobile apps bluetooth security vulenrability (4 May 2020). DPM Heng Swee Keat sees what I see - that cybersecurity must be the core of any IT design that roll out to the public. 'Digital virus' might be bigger threat than Covid-19: Heng Swee Keat (13 Jun 2020).

Minister Vivian also say that Tracetogether token should be open up in code, design - for public feedback and can be improved upon. (13 Jun 2020).

28. Comment in REACH on PSP 6 members campaigning violate 5 people in a group under MOH safety guideline and ELD campaigning guideline (19 Jun 2020). REACH Administrator say they will feedback to relevant Authorities. Safe Distancing Ambassador take down the particulars of all PSP members for flouting the law. (22 Jun 2020 CNA).

29. Comment in REACH on Holland Village - British Indian Curry restaurant big crowd without mask and breach safe distancing (20 Jun 2020). URA close the shop and the sidewalk for breaching safe distancing (21 - 22 Jun 2020 CNA)

30. Propose digitalisation through eCommerce for SMEs and big Enterpises to tap not only local market but also overseas market align with ITM. (28 Apr 2020) (27 May 2020). 500 SMEs digitalise through eCommerce platform to access overseas market (ST 22 Jun 2020)

31. Projection through math calculation dorm testing will complete by end July or Aug 2020. (SK). CNA 25 Jun 2020  report that 70% to 80% of migrant workers in dormitories expected to be COVID-19 free by end-July 2020: Lawrence Wong.

32. Suggest RFID to track quarantine travellers to stay at quarantine home. (24 Mar 2020). Govt use GPS, bluetooth etc to track quarantine travellers to stay at quarantine home. (4 Aug 2020 Straits Times) (SK)

33. Write in REACH that 2020 General Election mood turn sour because many mid-career PMETs got retrench and cannot find jobs - not only young voters swing the votes. Also many business run into difficulties because of the covid lockdown. These assessment is contrary to most independent analysts of post GE outcome. (11 July 2020). Minister Lawrence Wong confirm my assessment is correct - not only young voters that swing the votes. (18 July 2020 Straits Times).

34. Propose vegetarian foods, vegan based meat, 3D printed vegan base meat, cell-culture, tissue re-engineering meat, beyond meat to replace slaughtering of animal meat and prevent virus pandemic. (2 Aug 2020). Government plan food security R&D to achieve the proposed contribution.

(Straits Times 13 Aug 2020

Strengthening food security with R&D

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/strengthening-food-security-with-rd?cx_testId=20&cx_testVariant=cx_2&cx_artPos=3#cxrecs_s)

35.(a) Proposed to re-boot our air hub organised "ring-fence" business travellers, tour group and MICE (17-18 Aug 2020). Minister of Transport Ong Ye Kung Channel 8 - 7pm interview - Minister Ong YK - say 3 prong approach to re-boot our air hub. (For Countries with good control infection)  1. Business traveller Reciprocal Green Lane 2. Open up for foreign tourists to come in 3. talk too fast - cannot catch...... the 3rd approach ----- but in a safe manner. (18 Aug 2020, 7pm)

35.(b) Proposed reboot our air hub through organised "ring-fence" tours, green lane for business travellers and MICE. (18 Aug 2020). MOT Ong Yee Kung annouce "air-bubbles" tours with test to replace Stay-Home-Notice for New Zealand, Brunei; and 7 days SHN to replace 14 days SHN for some Asia Pacific Countries with low infection rate. (21 Aug 2020).

36. PIE Jalan Anak Bukit highway car skid - suggest anti-skid highway (23 Aug 2020). Straits Time LTA report it will install anti-skid measures on the highway (23 Aug 2020). (Poh)

37. Analysis in REACH that 12 China national to Tianjin fly in Scoot tested positive - are time-based discharge which are no longer infectious. (24 Aug 2020). CNA report the 12 China national infected are due to time-based discharge and no longer infectious. (25 Aug 2020). (with SK)

38. Post Government should take into account the impact of "Geopolitical tension" on Singapore in addition to impact cause by virus pandemic that are not articulate in President Budget 2020 Parliament speech. (25 Aug 2020). SM Teo Chee Hean announce a whole of government and civil service approach to tackle the impact on our economic resources due to "Geopolitical tension". (CNA 27 Aug 2020).

39. Write in REACH to use hard ratio for foreign workers 30%, local 70% (currently no quota for work pass holders) - to test the veracity of using hard ratio - that produce immediate outcome of employing local workforce (but a trade-off that will drive away investors). (1 Sep 2020, noon 2pm). MOM Minister Josephine Teo say "Employment Pass quota not unthinkable, but probably unwise as it drive away investors". (1 Sep 2020, 5pm, Straits Times).

40. Case A to H - REACH contribution in view on foreign workers,  Unfair treatment of Singaporeans workers, Global investors want to setup Global or Regional HQ to Singapore,  needs for Global Talents, fiscal prudence and protect our reserve, Targeted help for vulnerable, Retraining and upskilling mature displaced workers, Wear reusable cloth face masks. (cover by CNA PM Lee Parliamentary speech 2 Sep 2020 )

41. Observations on unfair treatment of local workers versus foreigners. (31 Aug 2020). CNA PM Lee Parliamentary speech 2 Sep 2020 (quote similar example). (SK)

42. Post in REACH that foreign hiring managers if foreigners will look for its own kind in hiring. (31 Aug 2020). MP Patrick Tay in Parliamentary speech Sep 2020 (say hiring managers must change mindsets on local workers). (SK)

43. Propose ITM (and PWM) in 1 May 2012. ITM implemented in Budget 2016. PWM implemented in 21 Jun 2012.

44. Recommend "ring-fence" air bubbles, "safe tunneling" air corridors for MICE (17 Aug 2020). Government open MICE up to 250 attendees in 7 Sep 2020.

45. Say that Singapore must continue to maintain our status as Air hub, Port hub, Data hub, Finance hub, Manufacturing hub, Medical hub, Food hub, Water hub, Energy hub etc. (31 Aug 2020). Minister of Trade Chan Chun Sing say Singapore must still be the global hub and gateway to ASEAN, as well as "critical nodes" for businesses as Singapore adds value to their supply chain. CNA (8 Sep 2020)

46. Propose - Bring in only foreigners that can contribute millions or billions of investment into Singapore, or bring in ideas, r&d and skillsets that Singaporean do not have - but as a result create many new  and good quality jobs for Singaporeans. (31 Aug 2020). CNA (8 Sep 2020) Minister of Trade Chan Chun Sing say Singapore want the world’s best and brightest to be with Team Singapore. Singapore’s foreign worker policies are shifting towards “quality" rather than quantity.

47. Advocate TraceTogether token over TraceTogether mobile apps as mobile apps handphone can be hacked for financial gain as oppose to token that have no incenttive to hack as there are no financial data. (14 Jun 2020). CNA Government distribute TraceTogether token for free to Singapore residents. (9 Sep 2020).

48. Say that providing Government grant to SMEs is only temporary and not sustainable. Government should help to provide access to market local and overseas, buy their products or tie the start up to big enterprise to help them market their products to big overseas markets. (21 Aug 2020). Straits Times (9 Sep 2020) - 2nd Minister of Trade Tan See Leng say no amount of short-term relief is enough if there are no new businesses and revenue streams coming in and this is why the Government is exploring ways to open up the country for trade. 

49. Say that gov should help to provide access to market local and overseas, buy their products or tie the start up to big enterprise to help them market their products to big overseas markets. GLCs can identify promising startups to partner them and market their products in solutioning as well as provide resources to them. (21 Aug 2020). Straits Times (9 Sep 2020) - 2nd Minister of Trade Tan See Leng say Government policies can be better adapted to help start-ups and SMEs scale up so that they can compete internationally - having been certified and validated by the big government-linked companies here in Singapore.

50. Propose SMS alerts will be sent to those who were at locations with higher transmission risk. REACH message will be implemented in 10 Sep 2020. (SK)

51. Propose face mask with sensors that can detect covid-19. (14 May 2020). Straits Times 10 Sep 2020 Local researchers invented a face mask with sensors to detect covid-19 virus.

52. Propose SIA flights to nowhere and staycations or static airplanes meal. (21 Aug 2020). Straits Times SIA looks to launch 'flights to nowhere' by end-October to mitigate Covid-19 fallout (11 Sep 2020)

=======

Taking stock - successful Contributions in Open Forum 

Weng Cheng Ye

Ricky Lim

So which ward do we expect to see you representing the ruling party in the next election?

Your accounting/financial analysis prowess put me to shame.

南无阿弥陀佛🙏🙏🙏

Like · Reply · 9m

Ricky Lim

Weng Cheng Ye - ha ha ha...

I am not from accounting or financial background.

Also, I am not into politics.

I am a neutral person & not with any party - just wanting to ensure that our Country is doing well and Singaporeans and residents are living well.

Like · Reply · 1m

Jimmy Hui

Weng Cheng Ye, "Ricky Lim" account was set up for a group of people to rebut any criticism of the ruling party. That is why you probably find him amazing with his long stories and analysis and he can talk on anything (a group of people is behind the account).

A neutral person & not with any party - will not go to such extend and spent so much time justifying what the ruling party did is always correct. "He" will remain anonymous and talking to him is as good as talking to a bot.

Save your time...

Like · Reply · 12h

Ricky Lim

Jimmy Hui - Ricky Lim is one and only one person - not associate with any party.

Also I am not always with the Ruling Party.

Anything that is done correctly I will support - whether is Ruling Party or Opposition Party.

Anything that is not done correctly, I will propose what should be the correct things to do.

Eg. SingHealth cyberattack - I propose my solution how to stop the APT attack.

President Trump and President Kim visit to Singapore on denuke talk - I propose Sentosa instead of Shangrila. And I am very please that the MFA, MHA, Mindef etc are very effective and efficient to host and ramp up organisation skills and security skills to protect the foreign dignitaries and ensure a successful talk.

It shows that if the security forces (a combined integrated forces of the Home Team, Air, Land, Sea, Air defense - at short notice) can protect Sentosa (a pilot test of protecting an island and the gateway), they can protect Singapore.

Foreign Policy of "Friends with All. Adversaries with None. Forge mutual benefits with Win-Win outcome." - is my proposed foreign policy principle.

Changing police revolver to magazine load handgun to combat terrorism - is also my proposal.

 Using rail sensor to proactively to detect track fault with central monitoring instead of "eyeball" track fault is my proposal.

Section 377A - I also propose my opinion of Explicit lens and Implicit lens.

ITM - Industry Transformation Map and centralised online Job Portal to resolve the disruptive tech that disrupt business and jobs - is my proposal.

Social Entrepenurship Hawker Centre with at least 1 cheap dish per stall is also my proposal.

And many others. such as Mention 苏东波 尿 can be evaporated and become drinking water in 1990s - become Newater in 2000.

My view is for the good of Singapore - which is Party neutral.

Just happen that I agree with about 90 to 95% of the view that is held by the Ruling Party - does not means that i am the Ruling Party social media spokesman.

I write what is best for Singapore, what is most pragmatic that works, not what is most popular but that will sink the Country.

Like · Reply · 1m

Jimmy Hui

Ricky Lim, after all that you've wrote and with so much of your proposals implemented, you expect anyone to believe you are "one and only one person"? If you are one person, you must be a super human cos you seem to have tremendous in-depth knowledge on everything under the sky. A super human like you should have joined (or may be you already have) a political party and with your credentials and foresights could easily be leading Singapore by now. Why just stay anonymous and gave all the above proposals for free? YOLO (you only live once) so why not make use of your life to show what you can do for society (and singapore) since you have such a great heart for the country and the people? I almost thought you're a reincarnated LKY :)

I still find it hard to believe you are "one and only one person" you claimed. Even if you're a one person, you're no ordinary guy. I suspect you must be a top notch civil servant (active or retired) unless you're some kind of prodigy /genius who choose to stay anonymous - what a waste! The fact that you do not have a face to your account and your usual staunch support of the ruling party, suspicion of your party affiliation is obvious and as for me I still suspect it's a group of people behind that "Ricky Lim". Sorry for not respecting your name (if it's your real name) and your "one and only one person" claim. Chao!

Like · Reply · 16h

Ricky Lim

Jimmy Hui - Ha ha ha...

Well "Ricky Lim" - indeed is "one and only one person".

You say "Ricky Lim" is a super-human - with in-depth knowledge ----- well there are many capable people in the Civil Service and the Ruling Party possessing such breadth and depth knowledge. I am certainly not a reincarnated LKY in which I have the full respect - that is too much a compliment.

As for why give my proposals free --- well the Buddha also give his immense knowledge free to the World - for the sole purpose of "liberating human sufferings to benefit the Universe".

Singapore is doing very well under a very capable Party - that even earn the respects of the World.

Singapore is not undergoing a crisis. There is no need to have another Mr LKY.

Many of the policies from the Ruling Party - are pragmatic, solving the real problem of Singapore and bring the Country forward - except some fine tuning needed that have fall off the crack.

Like · Reply · 1m

Jimmy Hui

Ricky Lim, not only have I said you seem to have in-depth knowledge of everything under the sky, you are also a master of modern warfare (y). Good strategies and imaginations (y).

Like · Reply · 9m

Ricky Lim

Jimmy Hui - Our Sovereignty have been trampled on and a direct threat are make on us.

We must stand up and use our assets to the fullest - to deter any threat directed at us.

We must not let our adversary go away with the idea the Singapore can be bullied !

Under this multiple layer of naval and air defences --- do you think that old man can intrude into our water territories?

We can also rest our naval guys and air force guys = with 24 hours patrol deploying unmanned stealth warships along our territorial water.

Like · Reply · 1m · Edited

Jimmy Hui

Ricky Lim, for all your brilliance and in-depth knowledge of everything under the sky coupled with a great heart for the well being of Singaporeans, I can't help but think that you are also deeply programmed by the ruling party. As such you have lost your fairness as an observer in such politicking.

REACH 124 - Additional 5th covid Budget (SK)

18 Aug 2020 (12pm - 8pm)

REACH

[11:48 am, 18/08/2020] +: Dear contributors,

Welcome back! Our chat will be open from 12pm to 8pm today.

Please be reminded to be respectful and considerate to others in this WhatsApp chat group.

The topic will be posted shortly.

REACH

[12:00 pm, 18/08/2020] +: 📢 Topic 📢

What are your views on the additional support measures in continued support for businesses and workers so as to protect lives and livelihoods?

In yesterday's (17 Aug) ministerial statement by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, he announced a scaled-back version of the Jobs Support Scheme (JSS) which will continue to help workers, and $8 billion more to be spent to save jobs, create new ones and seize new growth opportunities.

The JSS, which covers wages up to August, will now be extended to cover wages paid up to March 2021, and the support is adjusted based on how quickly each sector is expected to recover. 

The CSG, which was introduced in May to help Singaporeans who have been laid off or have suffered significant income loss, will also be extended to December and will be open to both existing recipients as well as new applicants.

👉 https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/dpm-heng-swee-keat-announces-8b-more-in-covid-19-measures-extends-jobs-support-scheme

---

[1:29 pm, 18/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Firstly, this budget is not drawn from the reserves and there are no further plan to draw from the reserve - as this budget is finance by reallocation of funds from elsewhere. This is fortunate, else our reserves will dry up - because it will be unsustainable to keep throwing money.

2. This budget is necessary in order to keep business afloat and jobs secured.

3. However, I feel that just by keeping the business afloat - by subsidising cost and labour cost will not be good enough. There must be attempt to stimulate external demands - so that business can sell their products and services to overseas market and bring back overseas travellers (safely) to spend on our retail, tourist spots, hotels and F&B.

Only then, our business can survive, jobs can be secured - and our Budget to help business and workers - well spent (not merely to keep business afloat by throwing money in).

4. Suggest Government try to make reciprocal arrangement with Countries (that have control the infection well) - to allow overseas travellers to have organised business travel, organised "ring-fence" tours, organised "ring-fence" MICE activities --- to boost our air travel, and air hubs.

5. Airports, airlines, tourism sectors collectively provided insurance for overseas travellers by insuring covid-safe air travel in airlines, check in to hotels, "ring-fence" tours, retail shopping, souvenir and gift shops, F&B and nightspot ------ observing all social distancing measures, wear mask, etc. --- and keep them away from local community.

6. Singapore trade, external market, external is 3 times the size of our GDP. And air hub provides $25 billion of GDP and 190,000 jobs.

We must proactively reach out to reboot our air hub and tourism - in a safe manner through "ring-fence" approach.

By doing so, we do not need to keep drawing into our reserves, or divert funds from elsewhere - to keep proping up our business and workers ---- as this is financially unsustainable. 金山银山， 也会挖空。 (Gold mountain, Silver mountain - will one day dig empty).

7. Creating, stimulating external demands (but do it safely - through "ring-fence" approach) - will be the best approach to re-boost business activities and keep the workers' jobs --- and hopefully, we don't need to come up with more Budgets, throw more money to prop up our business and jobs --- where our businesses can run on their own --- and provide tax revenue to the Government.

Hui Min

[1:32 pm, 18/08/2020] +: Point 3 is a very good point.

REACH

[1:31 pm, 18/08/2020] +: SIA Group passengers can now transit via Singapore from Indonesia and Malaysia

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/sia-group-passengers-can-now-transit-via-singapore-from-indonesia-and-malaysia?utm_source=STSmartphone&utm_medium=share&utm_term=2020-08-18+13%3A29%3A47

[1:35 pm, 18/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

This is a proactive good move by the government to reboot our air hub.

Dan

[1:58 pm, 18/08/2020] +: The extended wages will be up to Mar 2021. It seems like govt seems to have a certain plan( I definitely hope its not east coast plan) for the industry to tide over the crisis. 

We have also seen leaders opening up to the public to embrace new norm instead of treating this whole change as a anomaly during Covid 19.

At the back of our minds, we keep asking. What is the new norm? To dine together with 4 people we know? Keeping visitors to 5 per household? WFH till further notice? Food deliveries? Grocery deliveries? No vacation till end 2021, 2022? What about overseas travel? 

I hope Govt will put these expectations of a new norm down so that everyone will have a sense, or even a time frame so as to let everyone work towards. Even when vaccine is invented, I do not think it will provide immediate relief to the situation, but there should be a projection on apprx when can we resume our activities again. 

 Currently, many people are adopting the "Wait and See" mentality, and they are hoping that one day it returns to pre-covid times. If the leaders already understand that there is a paradigm shift and we will never return to pre-covid economy, then what is the rationale of govt providing the lifeline to support and breed that "Wait and See" mentality? Shouldn't the assistance package be more purposeful in helping people to tide over the change? 

These are the questions I think most Singaporeans have.

[7:01 pm, 18/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Channel 8 news now at 7pm - interview with MOT Ong Ye Kung - opening up of business reciprocal air lane for business travellers and in near future - tourists to re-boot our air hub.

[7:08 pm, 18/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Minister Ong YK - say 3 prong approach to re-boot our air hub. (For Countries with good control infection)  1. Business traveller Reciprocal Green Lane 2. Open up for foreign tourists to come in 3. talk too fast - cannot catch...... the 3rd approach ----- but in a safe manner.

[7:09 pm, 18/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Good that Minister Ong YK - in synch with my proposal.

Rama

[7:21 pm, 18/08/2020] +: He  has settled in here! KBW would be proud

CQ

[7:22 pm, 18/08/2020] +: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-ong-ye-kung-singapore-aviation-hub-12976082

this article is from 3 weeks ago, and there are probably changes. so they are trying, but "don't take for granted that it'll be the same".

Rama

[7:23 pm, 18/08/2020] +: Agree

[7:28 pm, 18/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

MOT Ong YK has been in Ministry of Comm and Transport the moment he join Admin Service.

He is a Deputy Director helping to formulate the Transport White Paper.

The Minister then is Mr Mah Bow Tan and the MOS is Mr Teo Chee Hean.

MOT Ong YK is very experience in transport policy - air, land and sea.

 REACH 123 - Retail and Aerospace business (SK)

17 Aug 2020 (12pm - 8pm)

REACH

[10:46 am, 17/08/2020] +: New scheme in the works to train retail, aerospace workers

A scheme to help workers in the hard-hit retail and aerospace industries is in the works, where they could be matched with surrogate employers and trained while waiting for the job market to improve.

Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) president Robert Yap told The Straits Times that the group is in discussions with various partners on the programme, and aims to roll it out within 12 months after details are firmed up.

It would see workers being employed by companies for possibly six to 12 months under a structured curriculum so that they gain industry-relevant skills.

The Government would subsidise the salaries of the workers. Later on, they can be deployed to other firms.

More: http…

REACH

[11:50 am, 17/08/2020] +: Dear contributors,

Welcome back! 😊

⏰ Chats will be opened from 12pm to 8pm today. ⏰

Please be reminded to be respectful and considerate to others in this WhatsApp chat group. 🙏🏼

REACH

[12:00 pm, 17/08/2020] +: 📢 Topic 📢

In what ways can the Government help industries transform quickly and provide targeted support to businesses and their workers in sectors hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic?

A scheme to help workers in the hard-hit retail and aerospace industries is in the works, where they could be matched with surrogate employers and trained while waiting for the job market to improve.

Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) president Robert Yap told The Straits Times that the group is in discussions with various partners on the programme, and aims to roll it out within 12 months after details are firmed up.

It would see workers being employed by companies for possibly six to 12 months under a structured curriculum so that they gain industry-releva…

+ changed this group's settings to allow all participants to send messages to this group.

+ changed the group description. Click to view.

----

[12:26 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

We have to maintain our air hub, air travel through organised travel, group insurance and health test - through bilateral arrangements with countries - to ensure covid will not be imported - but targeted MICE, tourism, retail, f&b can be safely arranged for foreign tours to preserve our air hub, aviation sector and our retail.

Else our air hub may demise.

[12:28 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

https://sg.yahoo.com/news/covid-19-has-decimated-air-travel-set-back-changi-airport-at-least-40-years-ong-ye-kung-084910318.html

Rama

[12:32 pm, 17/08/2020] +: As temasek has reduced SIA but not Keppel,  what does the future hold for Keppel?

[12:40 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

SIA will be profitable when air travel resume.

Oil is increasingly replace by clean energy - there goes oil, offshore drilling.

[12:42 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Temasek Holdings is our sovereign fund - need to earn investment income for our country.

Cannot be a santa Claus.

It must operate like a commercial entity.

Rama

[12:45 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Selectively,  drop those government link companies that do not perform over a designated period of time.

REACH

[1:06 pm, 17/08/2020] +: 📺 WATCH: Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, and Minister for Finance Heng Swee Keat’s Ministerial Statement at 3.30pm today.

Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies and Minister for Finance, Mr Heng Swee Keat, will deliver a Ministerial Statement on the Government’s further plans to continue supporting workers, businesses and protect livelihoods, in our ongoing efforts to build resilience and to emerge stronger from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Statement will be delivered via a Ministerial broadcast on Monday, 17 August 2020, at 3.30pm, which will be carried on CNA, CNA938, and Mediacorp MeWatch. 

The full Ministerial Statement will be published on the Singapore Budget website (www.singaporebudget…

[1:15 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

A country sovereign fund cannot fail - just to save non- performing company.

Because Singaporean lifeline is hinge on sovereign fund earning.

Going by this principle, CEOs of companies must perform.

Else if all rely on God mother rather than performing - then gold mountain silver mountain will also not last.

SL

[1:20 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Some of the company might be a strategic company, monetory kpi is should not the only measurement.

[1:23 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

If the company is too strategic, then find a good CEO to bring profitability back.

Sovereign fund cannot be a santa Claus to keep dumping money into a bottomless pit.

We even sold our last shipping line NOL - when years after years it keep losing money.

And we are a sea hub.

[1:26 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Eg. Keppel has diversified into Telco - M1, data center, property etc.

Digital banking? E-commerce?

What else can keppel do to bring itself back to profitability?

A good CEO will have to bring it back to profitability.

Rama

[1:29 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Replace top management and board members

SL

[1:31 pm, 17/08/2020] +: I think the ceo is coming from across the global, a proper succession planning to train local is important so that one say singaporean ceo also can be a nyse listed company ceo and chairman. 

I m not sure abt nol. Maersk is making money. Is nol facing difficulty in the past to compete with big shipping company?

[1:32 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Keppel?!

[1:32 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Disruptive tech clean energy has displaced the oil sector.

Then is keppel nimble enough to embrace disruptive tech and replace its lost business?

[1:33 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Yes keppel.

Rama

[1:36 pm, 17/08/2020] +: 🤷‍♀️

Valli

[1:42 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Keppel should look into restructuring & and not drag on offshore drilling business. 

It is no longer the world class rig builder. 

Many other countries have overtaken Keppel Rig Building biz.

en

[1:45 pm, 17/08/2020] +: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/temasek-slams-racist-facebook-posts-targeting-its-indian-employees

Rama

[1:46 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Time to relook and reevaluate!

[2:10 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Eg. Government can work with aviation and tourism sector to organise targeted, covid health check tours and MICE :-

1. Insure for covid test, hospitalisation, quarantine

2. SIA, silkair travel

3. Escorted, targeted check in to eg. MBS or Resort World hotels or Orchard Hotel, targeted retail, F&B, tourist spots, MICE events - with all social distancing in place.

Right from airport to hotel to tourist spots to few days guided tours and then back to airport.

This will help to re-boot our tourism and air travel.

Of course govt to govt arrangements need to be make.

Rama

[2:12 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Our hub as a regional/international cruise terminal is!?

[2:16 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Cruise is a super spreader covid event.

Not sure medical experts find it safe to allow cruise travel or not.

Air plane less than 200 passengers.

Cruise can go up to thousands.

Sea hub less affected.

Our air hub is crippled - only about 5% traffic - need to save air hub first.

Rama

[2:17 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Agree

[2:22 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Also air plane 200 passengers per flight, easy to organise hotel, tour bus, retail visit, tours, f&b and maintain social distancing and covid test.

Cruise few thousand tourists - logistics nightmare to arrange all the above - and if one infected thousands quarantine. A nightmare.

---

CQ

[2:24 pm, 17/08/2020] +: But airplane once you disembark, everyone goes everywhere and tracing becomes impossible.

[2:26 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Only organised and targeted tours or MICE allowed.

Not free roaming tourists.

This is our compromise step to open up tourism step by step.

Only when vaccines is successful, will we allow free roaming tourists.

[2:27 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/scientists-see-signs-of-lasting-immunity-to-covid-19-even-after-mild-infections?cx_testId=20&cx_testVariant=cx_4&cx_artPos=0#cxrecs_s                           Good news coming out from immunity. Chances of vaccines working is getting higher.

CQ

[2:27 pm, 17/08/2020] +: I think for the short to mid term, travel is not going to go back to how we know it before covid happened. There'll need to be pre-approval, health screening, secure travel, short quarantine, then swab again, then everywhere you go, you're tracked (maybe issue tracking token). There has to be criminal penalties with extraterritorial reach, such that if people wander off or intentionally breach the restrictions, they can be punished in their home country.

[2:28 pm, 17/08/2020] +: But it's not North Korea.... You can't shoot anyone who veers off from the group. Humans being humans will see something interesting and run off to take pictures.

[2:29 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Yes for the time being, organised tours instead of free roaming tourists - is the compromise calculated risk that we must take to reboot our aviation and tourism sector.

[2:30 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

All got to wear mask right?

Singaporeans also roam around freely now but still wearing masks.

All these tourists are tested negative before coming in.

We need to take calculated risks.

Else economically we will die.

We can't draw on more reserves - as it will dry up.

CQ

[2:30 pm, 17/08/2020] +: But what can you do if eg you have American tourists who refuse to wear their masks properly or insist on leaving the hotel at night on their own cos "FREEDOM!!!"? You can't stop them what

Blue and White Flag Guy

[2:31 pm, 17/08/2020] +: I'm against this freedom 💩

[2:31 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Law will apply.

Just like our own Singaporeans who call themselves sovereign.

CQ

[2:32 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Yah, I'm against it as well. That's why you stay in your country thankyouverymuch

Ken

[2:32 pm, 17/08/2020] +: That person got mental issues 🤣🤣 so discharge without any penalty

CQ

[2:32 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Please lah, we have people wearing masks on their chin also no one catch lor.... Only the very egregious ones make it to court.

Blue and White Flag Guy

[2:33 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Cuz we had enough of stirring 💩

So we just let people be

Ken

[2:33 pm, 17/08/2020] +: 🤷🏻‍♂️ loop hole.. we say they not happy... those are the kind who make lots of noise

CQ

[2:33 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Yah... We let Darwin do his job. 🤭

CQ

[2:35 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Yah, and like the whole Robertson Quay situation. How many people shown in the photos vs how many got hauled up to court. And these are resident in SG. For tourists, enforcement is going to be even harder. Is restarting the economy worth that risk?

Blue and White Flag Guy

[2:35 pm, 17/08/2020] +: There's very low popularity when it comes to MICE, trust me

[2:36 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Out of all the transport MICE events, only one will be held physically in Austria

[2:36 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Only those tourists who meet the right requirements can come in.

Rama

[2:38 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Agree

Girl

[2:39 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Need to do risk assessment to allow tourists from countries with similar covid risks to us. Followed by quarantine while waiting for covid test result before release of tourists to the community.

[2:40 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Set up necessary protocols in place for risk control

CQ

[2:48 pm, 17/08/2020] +: You can do risk assessment, but end of the day, the cost-benefit consideration creeps in and in politics, inevitably it becomes a "let us do this, or we impose sanctions/tariffs against you". We know there are some countries just playing bully tactics, I'm just waiting to see whether they start bulldozing all the way to this side of the world

REACH

[3:15 pm, 17/08/2020] +: 📺 WATCH: Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, and Minister for Finance Heng Swee Keat’s Ministerial Statement at 3.30pm today.

Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies and Minister for Finance, Mr Heng Swee Keat, will deliver a Ministerial Statement on the Government’s further plans to continue supporting workers, businesses and protect livelihoods, in our ongoing efforts to build resilience and to emerge stronger from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Statement will be delivered via a Ministerial broadcast on Monday, 17 August 2020, at 3.30pm, which will be carried on CNA, CNA938, and Mediacorp MeWatch. 

The full Ministerial Statement will be published on the Singapore Budget website (www.singaporebudget.gov.sg ) after delivery. 

👉https://www.facebook.com/195137123858154/posts/3257866610918508/

[3:23 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Our keyword, our strategy is known as  "ring-fence".

Ring-fence tours, ring-fence MICE.

Singapore did very well in ring-fencing our dorms, aged home, hospitals, schools, work place, air transit, malls etc - to prevent infection spreading.

Similarly, we can extend our ring-fence expertise into organised tours and MICE - so as to reboot our air hub and tourism sector.

Rama

[3:23 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Yes

CQ

[3:25 pm, 17/08/2020] +: ok ah, i'm pushing this scenario abit. no offence intended.  

so say you allow group tours to come in. tours usually end at 8pm, or 9pm max. you send them back to the hotel. and then? do you lock them in? do you stop them from leaving their rooms? from leaving the hotel? do you station security at the door if they attempt to step out?

[3:26 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心:

Many overseas tourists are dying to go out for tour.

If we are able to package a well insured, covid-safe or covered organised tours - where tourists sign up and agreed to the arranged tours with no free roaming - guarantee our air hub and tourism sector will again buzz with economic activities - and yet safe for local community - because the organised tours are ring- fence.

Rama

[3:27 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Tricky to implement but worth considering

REACH

[3:29 pm, 17/08/2020] +: 📺 LIVE NOW: Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, and Minister for Finance Heng Swee Keat’s Ministerial Statement

Watch Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Na_3WBC9eEk

[3:30 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Hotel will have safeguard to prevent tourists from leaving the organised agenda or they may even need to wear wearable devices to track their movement.

N Korea have many organised tours with very strict restrictions - and yet many tourists sign up to tour n Korea.

So Singapore can have a niche - an orthodox tours that can attract tourists.

Tourists can accept the inconvenience because they know this virus pandemic is no joke - and we protect them and yet allow them to have fun.

[3:32 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

And tourists need to sign up and accept the inconvenience before they can enrol in our ring-fence tours.

This will work and will reboot our aviation and tourism sector.

CQ

[3:35 pm, 17/08/2020] +: people sign up for the NK tours knowing full well of the risks if they veer off from the group and it's shrouded in mystery. you know how the rest of the world criticises how NK detains these people or shoot on sight.  are we prepared to do the same? otherwise, it's an empty threat and they know it, because they know that a democratic country will not take such steps which supposedly "infringes human rights"

[3:37 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

If any tourists breach the guidelines, they will be ask to terminate the tour, escort to airport and fly home.

[3:38 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

They must sign this before they enroll the tour.

If they break contract, we send them home.

Caleb

[3:40 pm, 17/08/2020] +: NSK can't be the next PM

[3:40 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Not very suitable

CQ

[3:42 pm, 17/08/2020] +: that's not deterrence... it just means "try not to get caught". it doesn't have the same deterrent factor as "if i see you, i shoot"

REACH

[3:43 pm, 17/08/2020] +: JOBS SUPPORT SCHEME

DPM Heng Swee Keat says he will extend this scheme by up to 7 months, covering wages paid up to March 2021. The support will be tiered according to how badly a sector has been hit by COVID-19, with those in aerospace, aviation and tourism sectors getting the most help.

Follow his speech here: https://cna.asia/3fZXOUl

[3:44 pm, 17/08/2020] +: JOBS GROWTH INCENTIVE

S$1 billion will be set aside to support firms to hire more local workers over the next 6 months, DPM Heng Swee Keat announces.

This involves the co-payment of wages of all new local hires for up to a year, and companies who hire those 40 and above get more support.

More: https://cna.asia/3fZXOUl

[3:45 pm, 17/08/2020] +: COVID-19 SUPPORT GRANT

The grant, introduced in May, is aimed at helping Singaporeans who are unemployed or suffered significant job losses due to the pandemic. It will be extended until December this year, says Heng Swee Keat. 

Low-wage workers will also get help as eligibility for the Workfare Special Payment is widened to include more of those affected.

More here: https://cna.asia/3fZXOUl

[3:50 pm, 17/08/2020] +: BOOSTING TOURISM

S$320 million in tourism credits, called SingapoRediscovers Vouchers, will be set aside for Singaporeans to explore the country and boost spending. 

“I hope Singaporeans will take the opportunity to explore our local culture and heritage, nature, art and architecture. You may be surprised by what you discover,” says Heng Swee Keat.

More: https://cna.asia/3fZXOUl

[3:51 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

You mean you shoot tourists who don't wear mask including Singaporean who don't wear mask?

REACH

[3:52 pm, 17/08/2020] +: [Sent by Gov.sg – 17 Aug]

As of 12pm, MOH has preliminarily confirmed an additional 91 cases of COVID-19 infection in Singapore.

Majority are Work Permit holders currently under quarantine.

Based on investigations so far, there are no cases in the community.    

In addition, there are 6 imported cases who had been placed on Stay-Home Notice upon arrival in Singapore.

MOH will share further updates in its press release that will be issued later tonight.

go.gov.sg/moh17augupdate

CQ

[3:53 pm, 17/08/2020] +: of course i don't, but that's the whole point! no matter what measures you put in place, the deterrent factors will never be as strong as what NK can do. so there will always be people seeking to push the boundaries and sneak out. thus the question is "at what point to we accept the risk for the sake of restarting the tourism econony"

chan5956

[3:54 pm, 17/08/2020] +: but pple who have time as no job ...the vouchers won't be sufficient whereas pple who has jobs don't have time to use then it's wasted $$$......

[3:58 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Tourists must be tested before they come Vs many Singaporeans who are not tested but only rely on wearing masks to stay safe.

Wonder tested and ring-fence tourists are safer or non-tested Singaporeans are safer?

Do we have to be paranoid to the extreme - at the expense of our economy and our air hub?

[4:00 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Some Singaporeans also don't practice safe distancing and sneak out what - are you going to suggest deporting them to no man land?

CQ

[4:02 pm, 17/08/2020] +: we're talking at cross purposes here. the purpose of ring-fencing is to keep whatever we have "in", and whatever we don't have "out". once you decide to introduce further groups into the existing ringfence, thay

[4:03 pm, 17/08/2020] +: *that's already a risk in and of itself. the more bubbles you have, the harder it is to control. and you don't have the means to control and enforce because you're not going to be stationing security officers to stop them from stepping out of the hotel

Valli

[4:04 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Are those travelling back  (imported cases) coming here for treatment? 

At some point our healthcare professionals will need a break and not be overwhelmed with imported cases.

[4:05 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

I think you are extreme paranoid and nothing will work until the whole economy collapse.

You can't size up risk and proper reasoning.

You stick with your own view and I propose mine.

Let the govt decide.

The new MOT Minister view is to have targeted opening up of air traffic for overseas travellers.

[4:07 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

You don't seems to understand the implications of negative 5% to 7% GDP means - $100 over billion lost and widespread unemployment.

You also don't understand what it means when air hub is bypass and we will be permanently redundant.

CQ

[4:08 pm, 17/08/2020] +: ok, don't need resort to personal attacks here. like i said, all i'm doing is pushing the example to its logical extremes and testing the logic. i'm not saying i'm against it. i'm just saying that these proposals need to be thought through very carefully before implementing

[4:08 pm, 17/08/2020] +: 🙄

Rama

[4:11 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Agree

[4:11 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

I am not against careful through before opening as this virus threat is unprecedented.

But I am also against extreme paranoid ism where we are ostrich putting our head into the sand and do nothing until our economy totally collapse and degenerate into mass social riot.

[4:11 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: Thought

Rama

[4:12 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Our government will weigh the pros and cons and com3 up with a calculated approach.

Leonard Lau

[4:12 pm, 17/08/2020] +: First thing first , are we expecting tourists or casual business travellers ?  Both number will be small given the global Covid climate . 

I suggest MOT / MTI to think creatively how to make us a good location  for  business traveller congregate here .

Rama

[4:12 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Agree

[4:13 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Casual tourists is not on the horizon for now. Casual business travellers is only starting to geow.

Leonard Lau

[4:14 pm, 17/08/2020] +: These imported cases are most work and Long pass holders .

Valli

[4:16 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Dependents pass holders cases are increasing.

[4:19 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Are they really essential travellers?

CQ

[4:24 pm, 17/08/2020] +: No one is saying you stop moving and wait for this to pass. What I'm saying is we assume that this is NOT going to pass and travel is not going to go back to things as we know it. Group tours and ringfencing, sounds great on paper. But the devil is in the details and how you enforce it to ensure compliance such that the rules aren't there just for show. A good set of rules isn't just about being realistic, it must also be enforceable and have sufficient bite if anyone contravenes. Otherwise it's as good as not having rules.

As you had said in an earlier message, people are "dying to go out for tours". Which means they are desperate to reclaim the life as they know it. But we know that can't happen, so how do we mitigate that risk? So again going back to my point "is restarting the economy worth that risk", perhaps I should phrase it in this manner, "where is that balance between risk and benefit".

So it's not that I don't understand that negative GDP and its impact. It's precisely because I do, that's why i am asking where that balance is drawn because we sure as hell don't want to go back into CB right?

Ken

[4:38 pm, 17/08/2020] +: I am few of the lucky ones that are in essential service (manufacturing), but really we don’t know how bad it will turn. My side sales also start dropping, lucky that our product quite diverse hence impact is a bit lesser.

But many friends and family, in various industry. Like photography, dancer, gym, aircraft all quite badly hurt but don’t know how to help. Only can help them look for other jobs. In Singapore as a citizen you won’t starve. Just don’t choose job. Wait for the right time to come back. We all don’t like breaks but sometimes no choice.

Rama

[4:40 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Treasure your job and constantly upgrade and reskill.

[4:49 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

If malls are so big and yet can be regulated by safe distancing officers - a hotel cannot?

Let the details be work out by the ministry and those in the industry.

No need to fret over it.

Important to get the strategic direction correct - and once agree on the strategic vision - then let the various expertise work out the details.

There is no need to keep whining on the paranoid side.

SL

[5:01 pm, 17/08/2020] +: I think both the economy and safety are important, the risks need to be mitigate, we cannot affort to continue with negative gdp also we need to keep the community from outbreak. 2nd or 3rd wave of outbreak in other areas is a good learning material for us. We need paranoid but also opened to the fact that no economic transaction, we are hard to survive. A balance between the 2 (economic recover + low number of community case) and max the return to Singapore is important.  Anyone consider to how economic recover in alternative way?

Rama

[5:02 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Agree

Ken

[5:02 pm, 17/08/2020] +: The model that we think used to work will change very much. really don’t think international travel will come back anytime soon.

SL

[5:02 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Pls consider:

Economic recover benefit > control measure + fire fighting cost if outbreak

Rama

[5:02 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Agree

Blue and White Flag Guy

[5:03 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Exactly, where our dynamism go? We cannot expect everything to work forever one

Rama

[5:03 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Look at 2022 for a possibility  at the earliest.

SL

[5:03 pm, 17/08/2020] +: The first question to answers is what drive traveller to travel.

Rama

[5:03 pm, 17/08/2020] +: That's why MTI CCS said the new economy will be not pre covid-19 times anymore!

Ken

[5:04 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Which also means the push for each country to have their service team rather than using Singapore as a hub, that we use to able to fly within 2 days. Won’t happen now.

SL

[5:04 pm, 17/08/2020] +: IATA published article said 2024 to recover to pre covid

Ken

[5:04 pm, 17/08/2020] +: More jobs will be lost for those international support engineers

[7:44 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Singapore’s position as a global business node depends on our connectivity as an air hub. The Changi Air Hub and its adjacent industries contribute to over 5 per cent of Singapore's GDP and employ more than 190,000 people. Tourism adds vibrancy to our retail and F&B sectors.”                                                                                                          

Our air hub contribute $25 billion to our economy. Now is about $1.25 billion (rough estimate - 5% economic activity) - that means multi-billion dollars lost - if we still are not able to revive our air hub.

Rama

[7:54 pm, 17/08/2020] +: 👍

[7:54 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Else our pilots, air steward and stewardess, air port handlers may end up permanently as social distancing officer, health care assistant etc.

Rama

[7:54 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Yup

---

CQ

[7:56 pm, 17/08/2020] +: If have to then retrain lor

[7:57 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Losing air hubs means lose $25 billion.

Is that what you want?

CQ

[7:58 pm, 17/08/2020] +: No, like I said, I'm not saying that's what I want. If really under the boh bian act have to retrain then retrain lah.

[7:59 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

Losing air hub also means lose foreign investment, business and many strategic business.

CQ

[7:59 pm, 17/08/2020] +: You can't cling to an industry which is dead just because of the value and how many people are gonna be out of a job. Yes of course you try to revive it, but no point flogging a dead horse if the rest of the world is all not moving ahead with it.

[7:59 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

LKY first build sea hub and 2nd air hub

[8:00 pm, 17/08/2020] ☸️  Danny 心: 

If we lose our air hub - as good as we are strategically dead

REACH

[8:00 pm, 17/08/2020] +: Dear Contributors,

We will be closing the chat for today.

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

Goodnight!

Megan

+ changed this group's settings to allow only admins to send messages to this group.