SINGAPORE: Crowds are starting to form around Marina Bay for New Year countdown celebrations, and the police have started to close areas that have reached full capacity.

In a Facebook post just after 8pm, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said that it had closed the Jubilee Bridge, the Fullerton Waterfront area and the Merlion Waterfront area.

SPF advised members of the public to avoid these areas.

As of 8.25pm, several other areas were marked as "crowded" or "very crowded" on the Crowd@MarinaBay website, including areas around the Esplanade and Marina Bay Sands.

To manage crowds, the police will release real-time photos of the situation at Marina Bay and Kallang. Certain areas may be closed if they become overcrowded.

SINGAPORE: Singapore delivered a stronger-than-expected growth of 4.8 per cent this year, even amid fractured trade and geopolitical tensions globally, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said on Wednesday (Dec 31).

“This is a better outcome than we expected, given the circumstances,” said Mr Wong in his New Year message.

However, he noted that Singaporeans must be realistic that “sustaining this pace of growth will be challenging”.

“To remain competitive, we cannot simply do more of the same. We must rethink, reset, and refresh our economic strategies,” said Mr Wong.

He added that his deputy Gan Kim Yong – who is Minister for Trade and Industry – is leading a team of younger political office holders in the effort. Their first set of proposals will be released soon, and the government will respond at Budget 2026, he said.

This year’s growth surpasses last year’s 4.4 per cent, and has also outperformed the 4.1 per cent predicted by private sector economists and the official Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) forecast of around 4 per cent.

Mr Wong said Singapore’s 2025 performance was because “global economic growth turned out to be more resilient than anticipated”.

For one, the United States’ tariffs were imposed later and at lower levels than many had feared, he said.

Singapore also benefited from the surge in demand for semiconductors and electronics driven by the artificial intelligence (AI) boom, said Mr Wong.

“As a result, unemployment and inflation remained low, and real incomes have risen across the board,” he said.

Mr Wong noted, however, that the fractured trade and geopolitical tensions are permanent features of a fragmented world. Moving forward, Singapore will face more obstacles to its growth and greater inflationary pressures, headwinds which it cannot fully shield itself from as a small and open economy, he said.

SINGAPORE IN POSITION OF STRENGTH

The past year has “marked a major turning point”, with the end of the global order that countries had long operated in, said Mr Wong.

“Longstanding assumptions about open markets and win-win cooperation are being questioned and sometimes rejected. Countries are reconfiguring trade networks and supply chains in the name of resilience and security,” he said.

He said that geopolitical tensions have also deepened, with the war in Ukraine showing no signs of ending and the situation in Gaza remaining precarious. “In many parts of the world, tensions rooted in identity and belief continue to spill over into violence,” he said.

Mr Wong added that closer to home, Thailand and Cambodia have clashed over disputed border areas. While a ceasefire has since been reached, sustained restraint and dialogue will be essential to secure a durable peace, he said.

“Taken together, these developments have made the world less predictable and secure. We must remain vigilant against security threats, even as risks in our region and beyond continue to evolve,” he said.

Despite the challenges ahead, Mr Wong said Singapore can press on confidently as “we are dealing with them from a position of strength”.

“Singapore’s international standing is high, and our brand is trusted and respected,” he noted.

Mr Wong said that amid global uncertainties, many companies are turning to Singapore as a trusted base because they seek stability. They include major players, like tech giant Microsoft, and startups and growth companies from around the world, he said.

During his overseas visits, he had also seen how Singapore’s reputation opens doors and creates opportunities for its businesses and people.

“From Africa to Latin America, our firms are carving out new niches and making their mark. We will continue to support our companies, as they expand, scale up, and seize overseas opportunities,” said Mr Wong.

DOMESTIC FOCUS

At home, the government remains focused on ensuring that “every Singaporean benefits from the nation’s progress”, said Mr Wong.

“Alongside the labour movement and employers, we will help every worker grow and progress in their careers, so they can see tangible gains for themselves and their families,” he said.

“Beyond jobs, we will continue improving the basics in life – education, housing, and healthcare – so every Singaporean has security and peace of mind.”

Social safety nets will also be reinforced to ensure that no one is left behind, said Mr Wong.

Lower-income families will be uplifted not just through financial assistance, but by empowering them to build a better future for themselves. 

Persons with disabilities and their caregivers will receive more support, with improved access to services and expanded opportunities for meaningful work and independent living, letting them plan for the future with greater confidence, he said.

LOOKING FURTHER AHEAD

Longer-term challenges, such as an ageing population and securing clean energy supply, must also be confronted, said Mr Wong.

Like many advanced economies, Singapore’s population is rapidly ageing while its birth rates are declining, said the prime minister.

“We will continue to support young Singaporeans who want to marry, settle down and have children, by addressing their concerns – from housing to childcare and education,” he said.

“We will create an environment where families can grow and thrive, and society remains vibrant and forward-looking.”

This includes staying open and welcoming those who "embrace" the Singapore way of life as fellow citizens, said Mr Wong.

“Together, these efforts will help strengthen our shared values and identity, and maintain a strong and cohesive Singaporean core.”

Longer lifespans will also have far-reaching implications for healthcare, work and retirement, and these issues are being studied holistically, said Mr Wong.

A Tripartite Workgroup on Senior Employment is reviewing strategies for seniors to work meaningfully in age-friendly workplaces, while efforts to strengthen retirement adequacy continue, especially for lower- and middle-income workers who need more support, he said.

Mr Wong said that Singapore will also secure a reliable supply of clean energy to power the energy-intensive industries of the future, including AI.

One strategy is to import green energy, and work towards the longer-term goal of an ASEAN Power Grid, he said.

Singapore is also pursuing its own clean solutions, with possible options such as low-carbon hydrogen and nuclear energy, said Mr Wong.

“In our early years of nation-building, water was an existential threat. Through hard work and ingenuity, we created NEWater. Now, clean energy is our new frontier and next major challenge. Just as we did with water, we must turn this vulnerability into a source of strength,” he said.

Mr Wong said the challenges ahead are complex and will require Singaporeans to be bold, creative and open to new solutions.

“We will have many discussions and robust debates. But we must never allow our differences to divide us. Instead, we must harness our diverse perspectives to chart a new path forward – as one united people,” he said.

Despite the world today seeming “darker and more dangerous than before”, Singapore has always found strength in adversity, noted Mr Wong.

“We endured and progressed because we refused to be defeated – because we faced challenges together, with courage and quiet determination. Sustaining the Singapore miracle requires the same spirit from all of us today,” he said.

SINGAPORE: Singapore sailing is riding on a wave of success, following a strong showing at the recently concluded SEA Games.

Earlier this month, the team won 10 medals, including four golds, in Thailand. 

But even as a bright future beckons on the international stage, the sport faces a pressing challenge closer to home – finding a new base. 

The Singapore Sailing Federation will have to vacate the National Sailing Centre at East Coast Park after the 2029 SEA Games, which will be hosted in Singapore. 

The site has been earmarked for the Long Island project, a major development involving the reclamation of about 800ha of land that is set to reshape Singapore’s eastern coastline over the coming decades.

The federation’s president Stanley Chan said the choice of a new site for its headquarters will be crucial to the sport’s survival. 

"We have to be very careful about where we want to build the new National Sailing Centre, because that will impact optics (and) accessibility to the sport. If it's a place that is not accessible, the sport might just die off," he said.  

He added that the federation is working closely with various government agencies to find a viable location.  

WHY THE EAST COAST IS OPTIMAL FOR SAILING 

For the federation, the challenge goes beyond relocating infrastructure. It also involves ensuring the sport remains accessible, sustainable and competitive. 

Located along East Coast Park since 1999, the National Sailing Centre has provided sailors with wide open spaces as well as clean and safe coastal waters. 

Sea sports enthusiasts say the east coast is the most suitable area in Singapore for activities such as sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.  

Sailing club director Ho Kah Soon cited the area's accessibility, favourable wind conditions and the absence of major shipping lanes. 

"Facing the open Singapore Strait and South China Sea, (the east coast) enjoys an unobstructed wind fetch. The coastline from Changi to Marina Bay is relatively open and linear, allowing winds to flow smoothly over water with minimal turbulence from dense high-rise clusters," said Mr Ho, who runs the Constant Wind Sea Sports Centre. 

PROS & CONS OF LONG ISLAND FOR SAILING 

Mr Ho said preserving access to the Singapore Strait and open-sea training grounds remains essential.

"Advanced sailors still require access to natural sea conditions – currents, chop and open-water challenges – where most major regional and international competitions are held," he added. 

At the same time, a planned freshwater reservoir, a major feature of the project which will add to Singapore’s water supply and be open to water-based activities, could bring significant benefits for beginners.

"With minimal waves, no strong currents and reduced commercial vessel traffic, it will dramatically lower barriers to entry," said Mr Ho. "Beginners in sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddling will learn faster, with greater confidence and reduced risk."

He added that overall, the project could broaden community access to water sports, enhance event-hosting potential and act as a catalyst for greater public participation in marine activities.

SUSTAINING SPORT’S MOMENTUM

Beyond securing a new headquarters, the sailing federation is also focused on nurturing young talent, growing participation and building depth across sailing classes. 

Mr Chan said the federation is exploring the expansion of sailing-related disciplines in the National School Games to attract more young participants. 

There are also hopes that the young national sailors who made waves at the SEA Games will inspire more children to take up the sport. 

In Thailand, Olympic bronze medallist Max Maeder, 19, dominated the kitefoiling event on his Games debut. New sailing talents such as gold medallist Ethan Chia, 15, and silver medallist Anya Zahedi, 12, have also emerged. 

Mr Chan said the federation is also developing a “board pathway” – for water sports involving riding a board such as wing foiling and kitefoiling – that allows young sailors to explore multiple disciplines before specialising. 

“(These are) interchangeable disciplines. You discover what you really like … and not just zoom into one at too young an age. In fact, we have a bunch of eight- and nine-year-olds who are pretty good, and (they’ve) started racing overseas as well,” he said. 

Limited sea space and seasonal wind conditions in Singapore have also prompted the federation to explore overseas training opportunities, especially during monsoon transition periods when winds are less favourable. 

Cost remains a concern, and Mr Chan said the federation is working to secure funding and sponsorships. 

“Sailing should be open and accessible to every Singaporean,” he said, adding that no one should feel excluded because they cannot afford the sport. 

Despite upwind challenges ahead, Mr Chan remains cautiously optimistic. 

“The good thing is, for the Olympic classes, we are pretty much on track. Like the gold medals that we won (at the SEA Games) were pretty much in the Olympic classes,” he said.

“Those that we did not win, but we still accounted well for, were developmental classes, which will lead into the Olympic classes, based on our pathways.”

SINGAPORE: Some stallholders at One Punggol Hawker Centre are hoping that a new operator can address the loss of business to a recent competitor in the neighbourhood. 

Hawkers at One Punggol told CNA on Tuesday (Dec 30) that sales have taken a hit since the newcomer, Punggol Coast Hawker Centre, opened earlier this year. Some stalls reported up to a 30 per cent drop in business.

Noodle seller Teh Cher Ming, 58, who estimated that his sales had dropped 20 to 30 per cent, said he did not have any complaints about how the hawker centre was managed.

But he said One Punggol did not have enough amenities and shops, such as a supermarket, to draw crowds who may then choose to eat at the hawker centre on the second floor.

A stallholder who only wanted to be known as Mdm Lim described the hawker centre as a "dead town" at night, adding that she welcomed the change of operator.

"A management should ... assist the hawker stall to run the business more smoothly, to help the hawker centre to build a more vibrant area for everybody. But here, don't have," she said.

The hawkers were speaking to CNA after Timbre Group, the operator of One Punggol Hawker Centre, announced that it would end its tenancy a year ahead of schedule.

Stallholders said Timbre did not give a reason for its decision during a meeting that the operator called to inform the hawkers on Monday.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) said on Monday that Timbre indicated its tenancy "posed challenges" for operations.

CNA has contacted Timbre for its reasons in ending its tenancy early, the challenges it was facing and its responses to concerns raised by stallholders.

One Punggol Hawker Centre, located in the People's Association's One Punggol community hub, opened in 2022 with 34 stalls. It is linked to Sam Kee LRT station and located several minutes' walk from Punggol MRT station.

Timbre has operated the hawker centre since its opening. Its second tenancy began in 2024 and was supposed to end on Aug 14, 2027, but will now end on Aug 14, 2026 instead.

Punggol Coast Hawker Centre opened in July this year with 40 stalls and is operated by Kopitiam, part of FairPrice Group.

It is located next to Punggol Coast MRT station and within Punggol Digital District – a business park developed by JTC that also houses the Singapore Institute of Technology. 

The two hawker centres are around 700m apart, and Punggol Coast MRT station is one stop away from Punggol MRT station.

Both hawker centres run under the Socially-conscious Enterprise Hawker Centre (SEHC) model, where the operators are private companies that seek to balance stallholder and customer interests.

A few months ago, Timbre was criticised for its management of another SEHC, Yishun Park Hawker Centre, over issues including stall rents, use of closed-circuit television cameras and its fines.

CRITICISM OF COST INCREASES

Another stallholder estimated a 10 per cent drop in sales after Punggol Coast's opening.

She said that when she suggested Timbre do more marketing for One Punggol, she was asked what kind of marketing she hoped to see.

"If we know what to do, we will do it ourselves already," said the hawker, who requested not to be named as she said stallholders had been told not to speak to the media.

She also criticised higher costs charged by Timbre when stallholders renewed their licences in 2024, saying they had "no choice" but to accept the charges.

The higher costs were laid out in a letter from Timbre to the hawker dated Aug 13, 2024, which was seen by CNA.

In the letter, Timbre wrote that the increase reflected current market conditions and that it was still subsidising "overall costs at the centre level".

"We recognise the potential impact on stallholders and have therefore implemented the increase in two phases to help mitigate the effect," stated Timbre.

It also reserved the right not to renew the licence for stallholders with outstanding costs not paid before Aug 14, 2024.

In the first phase from Aug 15, 2024 to Aug 14, 2025, non-variable charges rose by a total of S$480 (US$370) a month from the initial term beginning on Nov 1, 2022.

Rent rose from S$1,620 to S$1,800, service and conservancy (S&C) charges went up from S$150 to S$250, and table cleaning fees jumped from S$500 to S$700.

Variable charges also increased. Dishwashing initially cost 12 cents a piece, capped at S$1,000. This rose to 20 cents a piece, capped at S$2,000.

Use of the kitchen exhaust fan started out free, but a monthly charge capped at S$150 was introduced with the licence renewal.

In the second phase from Aug 15, 2025 to Aug 14, 2027, only the S&C charges increased by S$100 to S$350.

Mdm Lim said that over the past year, she paid S$2,100 to S$2,200 a month for table cleaning and dishwashing. 

In 2023, the median monthly stall rent was S$1,700 at SEHCs. The median rent for all non-subsidised cooked food stalls in hawker centres managed by NEA was around S$1,250 between 2015 and 2023.

Mdm Lim described her S$2,000 monthly rent as a "very good rate", provided that the hawker centre's management supports the stall's needs.

"I hope there is a better management (that) comes in to help us to solve the problem we're facing," she said.

HOPES FOR NEW OPERATOR

Vegetarian stall owner Canny Chan, in her 50s, described Timbre as a "responsible" operator with whom she has not had issues, although she too felt pressure from the higher charges.

She was among the stallholders who expressed hope that the operator who takes over will not raise rents and will do more to attract patrons.

When CNA visited One Punggol at lunchtime on Tuesday, there was a decent crowd with families and office workers.

Nine stalls were shuttered, although hawker Mdm Lim said it was normal for more stalls not to open during the school holidays due to lower anticipated footfall.

One suggestion Mdm Lim had was for the new operator to get more stalls to stay open later to attract a dinner crowd.

Her stall stays open past dinnertime. She said she had raised this suggestion to Timbre, but it was not implemented.

"The feedback from the customers that we had, they say there's nothing to eat here because all the stalls (are) closed (at night)."

She also hoped the new operator would allow the use of a second lift in the building that currently bypasses the second floor where the hawker centre is.

This makes it physically taxing for hawkers to dispose of their rubbish in the basement, she said, pointing out that many of their workers are older.

Fellow hawker Mdm Chan also hoped the new operator could improve the air circulation. She said One Punggol Hawker Centre was less well-ventilated than Punggol Coast Hawker Centre and customers had complained about the heat.

She and all the stall owners CNA spoke to said they would remain at One Punggol even after the change of hands.

SINGAPORE: Workers’ Party chief Pritam Singh said on Wednesday (Dec 31) that the need for robust checks and balances in Singapore has “never been more critical”, as he warned of growing pressures on workers amid rapid technological and economic change.

“We live in an era of unprecedented disruption,” said Mr Singh in the party’s New Year’s message, noting how artificial intelligence’s rapid advancement was bringing both opportunity and risk to many of Singapore’s workers.

“In such times, the government must not only be efficient but also fair,” he said, adding that Singaporean workers and families were dealing with cost-of-living issues, job insecurities and social realities which require policy empathy.

The WP will continue to defend the rights of workers and all Singaporeans, said Mr Singh.

“We believe that true security is found in a society that trusts its people with information and genuine dialogue,” he added. 

“We will continue to call for institutional safeguards, such as parliamentary select committees for each ministry and a Freedom of Information Act, to ensure that the governance of our country remains transparent and accountable to the people it serves.”

CHALLENGES OF OPPOSITION POLITICS 

Describing 2025 as a “pivotal” year in Singapore’s history, Mr Singh said that this year’s General Election was a “defining moment” for the country’s democracy.

The election - where the WP consolidated its position in Aljunied, Sengkang and Hougang - also saw the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) regain significant ground in constituencies the WP did not contest and achieve margins last seen in the 2015 General Election, said Mr Singh.

The PAP won 87 out of 97 seats in this year's election. In all, 65.57 per cent of the 2,386,452 valid votes cast went to the ruling party – up from 61.24 per cent in the 2020 General Election.

“This fact alone makes it clear how difficult opposition politics in Singapore truly is and will continue to be moving forward,” said Mr Singh.

“We are heartened that Singaporeans have chosen to walk this journey with us, acknowledging that a balanced political system is not a luxury, but a requirement for a stable and resilient Singapore.”

WP 2025 PARLIAMENTARY RECORD

Mr Singh also pointed out how WP MPs had worked in the first few months of Singapore’s 15th parliament to scrutinise government policy across a wide spectrum of issues.

The work he highlighted included the party’s MPs: 

• Urging the government to consider using economic tools, such as sanctions on individuals to disrupt international scam centres.
• Advocating for a preschool voucher proposal to fund the child rather than the operator to preserve diversity and affordability in the early childhood sector.
• Proposing a needs-based COE discount framework for parents, caregivers and the disabled.
• Calling for a comprehensive redundancy insurance scheme to support those between jobs and advocating for the right to human review for workers, particularly platform workers managed by algorithms.

“As Leader of the Opposition, I emphasised that questioning the government is a vital feature of our system designed to ensure better results for all,” said Mr Singh.

His message comes as parliament is set to discuss the conduct of the party’s leaders while handling ex-member Raeesah Khan’s lies in the House.

Mr Singh was convicted in February of lying to a parliamentary committee about whether he had directed former Ms Khan to come clean over a false anecdote she recounted in parliament.

Within the party, over 20 cadres have signed a letter calling for a special conference to be held in February, with Mr Singh's position as party chief possibly among the topics discussed.

In his message on Wednesday, Mr Singh acknowledged that the journey ahead for WP would be challenging.

“But we remain energised by the trust you have placed in us,” he wrote.  
 

These days, Aiswarya S spends her time icing cakes at her Little India cafe. Just a few years ago, she would have been in a blue Singapore Police Force uniform leading a response team at an accident site, or talking a distressed person out of a suicide attempt. 

For seven years, the now 33-year-old thrived on the unpredictability of her work in the police force. But in 2021, her on-the-ground role shifted towards policy-writing and desk duties. 

“I don’t really like sitting in front of the computer,” mused the former deputy superintendent. “I started thinking of what else I could do. I’ve always loved baking, but never pursued it seriously. So I thought, ‘let’s just try it’.”

Later that year, Aiswarya quit her job and enrolled in culinary school Le Cordon Bleu Dusit in Bangkok, spending a year earning her pastry diploma and another six months interning at two-Michelin-starred modern Indian fine-diner Gaa. 

“They are really creative,” she shared. “I learnt a lot from how they use Thai ingredients with Indian cooking techniques. It’s something I want to do here at my cafe, using Indian flavours in a subtle modern way.”

By late-2025, she was ready to open her own eatery, investing a six-figure sum from her savings to launch Blue Skies Cafe & Bar. The rustic-chic 30-seater in Little India was officially launched in November. Despite her training, Aiswarya didn’t want to just focus on pastries. 

“When I go to a cafe, I prefer one that serves proper food,” she said. Other than house-made pastries and cakes, Blue Skies offers hearty mains such as nasi lemak, burgers and waffles.

SHE LED THE RESPONSE TEAM AT FATAL LUCKY PLAZA CAR CRASH

A Singapore Police Force scholar and NUS biomedical science graduate, Aiswarya had always wanted “a job with purpose”. Her seven-year policing career spanned roles like investigation officer, team leader, as well as an operations officer with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

One of her most defining career moments happened in 2019, when a car ploughed into a group of Filipino domestic workers outside Lucky Plaza, killing two and injuring others. 

Then just 27, Aiswarya led a 50-officer response team at the chaotic scene. “We had to make sure there was proper crowd control. We also needed the ambulances to get there quickly. It was very challenging,” she recalled.

Other cases were equally impactful – persuading individuals out of suicide attempts, and once securing a confession in an attempted rape case despite scant evidence. 

“Those were the cases where I felt like I really made a difference in someone’s life. These are the moments I look back on and feel happy about,” recalled Aiswarya. 

Back then, leaving work before sunset was rare. Whenever it happened, her unit would call it a “blue skies day”. The phrase stuck – and years later, it became the name of her cafe.

COSY, BOUTIQUE-HOTEL VIBE

Stepping into Blue Skies feels a little like walking into a small boutique hotel. Warm lighting plays off exposed brick walls, creating an inviting, slightly rustic space that offers respite from Little India’s bustle.

A long bar anchors the room, lined with high stools and backed by shelves of spirits and coffee equipment. Beside it, a pastry counter displays croissants and cakes baked by Aiswarya each morning. Warm-toned chairs and wooden tables keep the seating area snug but comfortable.

SIGNATURE NASI LEMAK MADE BY MUM

While nasi lemak is a classic Malay dish, Aiswarya says many Indian households in Singapore have adapted it at home, adding spices and flavours shaped by their own family traditions.

At Blue Skies, the dish is cooked by her mum, Senthamarai, 62, a retired nurse who now helps in the kitchen almost daily. 

She prepares the coconut rice with fenugreek, cloves, pandan and freshly-squeezed coconut milk – a labour-intensive process she once reserved only for Deepavali. She insists on buying freshly-grated coconut and squeezes the coconut milk by hand for quality control, and also makes the achar and sambal from scratch.

Aiswarya oversees the kitchen operations but handles only the pastries and desserts herself; the savoury dishes are prepared by two hired chefs. 

Camera-shy but quietly proud, Senthamarai jokes that she’s fine with “not getting paid” and admits it’s gratifying to see diners enjoy the food. “These are just dishes I make at home,” she said. “I’m happy people like them.”

RED RIDING HOOD, S$8 

A layered latte of hibiscus tea, espresso, milk and maple syrup – tangy, smooth and lightly sweet.

MALAYA MUSE, S$19

This gin-based cocktail combines elderflower, pandan and lychee notes for an easy and refreshing tipple.

SINGAPORE: A spiritual medium who sexually assaulted a teenage girl under the pretext of giving her one-to-one wushu lessons was sentenced to nine years and four months' jail on Wednesday (Dec 31).

Tan Beng Kwee, 63, had earlier been convicted of sexual offences against the victim, who was then between 14 and 15 years old. 

The charges are one count of attempted sexual penetration of a minor under 16, one count of sexual penetration of a minor under 16, and one count of procuring an indecent act from a young person. 

Tan claimed trial and was found guilty of all three charges by Principal District Judge Toh Han Li, who dismissed the accused's bare denial.

The victim cannot be named due to a gag order.  

OFFERED PRIVATE LESSONS

Tan founded the Ang Mo Kio home temple in 2007 and lived there with his then-girlfriend. 

He acted as a spiritual medium who invited a Taoist god to possess him during sessions with temple members.

During one such session, Tan told the victim to learn wushu, a form of Chinese martial arts, from him.

She began taking one-on-one lessons in 2013, up to two times a week at the unit's living room. This was when she learned about the zodiac, horoscope, talismans and feng shui.

During the sessions, he ensured that no one else was present, according to the prosecution.

The sexual assaults took place during one of the first few lessons.

Claiming that he was feeling hot, Tan went to the master bedroom with the girl. There, he sexually assaulted her, ignoring her reluctance and pain. He claimed she or her family would be punished if she did not participate.

Before she returned home, Tan told the victim that she had to keep mum about the incident, or else "something would happen to her family".

Fearful that the Taoist god might punish her for failing to attend lessons, the victim continued with the lessons until some weeks before Nov 24, 2015.

The prosecution charged that Tan had "orchestrated" the offences by using the voice of a deity to isolate the victim, showing her pornography to "desensitise her", then issuing threats of "supernatural punishment to silence her".

According to the prosecution, Tan had also shown the victim an amulet in the shape of a private part. 

The victim lodged a police report on Jan 23, 2021, and Tan was arrested two days later.

When the authorities raided Tan's home, they seized more objects that resembled private parts and several sex toys.

In his defence, Tan denied the sexual assaults and claimed the lessons occurred in 2015 when the victim had turned 16.

He also claimed that others would be free to come and go during the lessons, and that his girlfriend was present at at least one.

GRAVE ABUSE OF TRUST

In sentencing Tan, Judge Toh noted Tan's "grave" abuse of the victim's trust, pointing out that the victim, a temple member, had looked to Tan for spiritual guidance and saw him as a father figure.

The judge disagreed with the defence that there had been no evidence of premeditation, adding that the one-to-one lessons had created the setting for Tan's abuse. 

Judge Toh also noted the impact of the incident on the victim, who was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and panic disorder.

According to psychiatric reports, the victim had low mood and suicidal thoughts, and had described a "scar in her heart". She also felt that others looked at her differently, even though no one knew about the sexual assault.

While Tan cannot be penalised for claiming trial, the victim had been put through the ordeal of testifying in court, Judge Toh said. 

For procuring an indecent act on a young person, Tan could have been jailed up to five years, or fined up to S$10,000 (US$7,800), or both. 

For sexual penetration of a minor under 16, he could have been jailed up to 10 years, fined, or both. 

SINGAPORE: The SkillsFuture portal resumed full operations on Wednesday (Dec 31), a day after experiencing disruption as a one-off S$500 credit top-up was set to expire.

SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) said its SkillsFuture Credit system - where individuals submit SkillsFuture Credit claims for courses - experienced a technical issue at about 5pm on Tuesday.

"This disruption mainly affected the submissions of SkillsFuture Credit claims for online learning subscriptions from providers such as Coursera, edX, NTUC LearningHub Learning eXperience Platform, Gnowbe, and ZilLearn," said SSG in a statement.

It added that those providers were accepting sign-ups for subscriptions before Dec 31, and hence were eligible for the expiring SkillsFuture Credit top-up.

"During the system disruption, SSG worked with these training providers to assure affected individuals that they would be notified as soon as the system was back online," it said.

The technical issue was resolved on Wednesday at 7am, said SSG. 

Claims submitted before the system issue, including those for other courses, were not affected.

"SSG is working closely with the five online learning providers to re-process or reinstate the course applications which were incomplete or denied during the downtime," it said. 

"Those applicants with expiring SkillsFuture Credit top-up will be able to utilise these credits in time," SSG added, apologising for any inconvenience caused and thanking its users and training partners for their patience and cooperation. 

The disruption came as Singaporeans rushed to use their one-off S$500 SkillsFuture credit top-up before it expires on Dec 31, with training providers reporting last week that demand has jumped sharply - in some cases by as much as seven times.

As of September, about seven in 10 eligible Singaporeans had not used their SkillsFuture credit top-up.

The SkillsFuture credit top-up was given to Singaporeans aged 25 and above in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It is separate from the first tranche of SkillsFuture credit of S$500, which all Singaporeans aged 25 and above received and which will not expire.

Singaporeans aged 40 and above also get a mid-career training allowance of S$4,000 in SkillsFuture credit that does not expire.

SkillsFuture credit can be used to offset fees for eligible courses on the MySkillsFuture online portal.

Gone are the days when a trip to the salon meant just a haircut, colour, or perm. Increasingly, clients are also booking scalp treatments or hair spas – sometimes even as standalone services. What was once an indulgent add-on has evolved into an essential step in self-care, driven by growing awareness of scalp health and a rise in hair and scalp concerns.

“Many salons now offer customised scalp and hair treatments as part of their core services – it’s no longer seen as an optional add-on,” said Ted Kim, founder of Suchehwa By Ted, a Korean hair salon with roots in Gangnam, Seoul.

“Clients view it as a key part of maintaining overall scalp and hair health. Many prefer visiting a salon over a hair clinic because it feels more relaxing, familiar, and less intimidating.”

COMFORT, FAMILIARITY, AND FLEXIBILITY

Discussing hair or scalp issues with a trusted hairstylist can feel far less daunting – and much less awkward – than with an unfamiliar trichologist or dermatologist. Hairstylists often act as “first responders”, spotting early signs of distress such as dry flakes, scalp imbalance, or thinning hair.

“When clients come in for a haircut, we’re often the first to notice scalp issues – usually caused by stress, weather changes, or environmental factors,” said Yann Beyrie, founder and director of Yann Beyrie Salon. “Most clients don’t even realise it until we point it out.”

Another reason for the salon shift is flexibility. Specialist hair clinics often require clients to commit to multiple treatment sessions. “Our clients tell us they dislike being locked into expensive packages,” added Beyrie. “At our salon, we base recommendations on hair analysis. Clients can try one session and decide later if they want to continue.”

TECHNOLOGY IS CHANGING THE GAME

Thanks to new technology, salons can now offer treatments that rival those at specialist clinics. At Chez Vous: HideAway Hair Salon, for example, chronic hair loss is treated using Intensive Exosome Needle-free Mesotherapy.

“We use low molecular weight exosomes – the same ones used in Korean hair clinics – but apply them through a pain-free, non-invasive method, rather than microneedling,” explained Eugene Teo, brand director of Chez Vous: HideAway Hair Salon.

Teo observed that frequent chemical treatments often damage clients’ hair and scalp. “Scalp protection is often overlooked, and once it’s damaged, recovery is difficult, time-consuming, and costly,” he said. “Unlike the face, people tend to neglect the scalp because it’s not visible – until problems arise.”

To address this, Chez Vous introduced the 15-step Trichofusion Hair Service, a comprehensive treatment designed to protect and repair the scalp before and during chemical services. Inspired by multi-step Korean scalp rituals, Trichofusion combines trichology science, molecular repair, and sensorial spa elements – all within just 15 extra minutes of salon time.

“Clients already know scalp care is important, but few take action,” Teo added. “So instead of waiting, we include it in our services. It’s like sunscreen – everyone knows it’s essential, but not everyone uses it. We want scalp care to become just as routine.”

WHAT THE DOCTOR SAYS

Dermatologists, however, advise some caution. While salon treatments can soothe, hydrate, and calm the scalp, they may not address deeper medical issues.

“In general, in-salon scalp and hair treatments provide temporary relief for mild problems such as dryness, itchiness, or flaking after chemical processing,” said Dr Eileen Tan, dermatologist at Eileen Tan Skin Clinic & Associates. “If you experience persistent itching or excessive hair fall, it’s best to consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis. Tests such as blood work or scalp analysis may be necessary.”

For chronic hair loss, clinical options may include medication, low-level laser therapy, or even surgical restoration, depending on severity.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HAIR HEALTH

Seeking help from a trichologist can also be beneficial. Leonica Kei, founder and principal trichologist of Leonica K Trichology, has observed a clear shift in attitudes over the past two decades.

“Today, there are far more players offering hair-loss solutions, and demand for hair transplants has surged,” she said. “Social media – especially influencers showing before-and-after results – has fuelled interest, though it can also create unrealistic expectations.”

Hair loss, in particular, is on the rise. Kei has seen more cases of alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss, especially during and after COVID-19. “We’re also seeing younger clients – some as young as 12 to 15 – experiencing thinning or excessive shedding,” she noted.

In response, Kei has expanded its offerings with low-level laser therapy and other advanced equipment, while maintaining a holistic approach that considers scalp health, lifestyle, and long-term care. “Our goal is to help clients of all ages – from eight to 70 – maintain healthy hair density,” she said.

SCIENCE MEETS SPA

Bridging the gap between medical science and luxury salon is Anagen Scalp, which opened in 2024 at Pacific Plaza. The centre describes itself as a “regenerative-science scalp centre,” combining medical-grade technologies with a spa-like experience.

“Our treatments are drug-free, pain-free, and clinically backed,” said Elizabeth Leong, consultant at Anagen Scalp. “They’re developed in collaboration with doctors but delivered in a luxurious, private setting.”

Anagen’s key technologies include exosome therapy, plasma infusion, and scalp electroporation – all designed to repair the scalp’s ecosystem and promote healthy hair growth. Each treatment is fully modular and customised to suit the client’s scalp condition, hair-loss stage, and goals.

Leong noted a rise in scalp sensitivity and thinning. “Common triggers include stress, post-COVID shedding, diet changes, and chemical over-processing,” she said. “But the good news is that many forms of hair loss are reversible if treated early.”

A NEW NORMAL FOR SCALP CARE

From high-end salons to medical-grade scalp centres, it’s clear the scalp is finally getting the care it deserves. The growing popularity of in-salon scalp treatments reflects a broader wellness movement – one that values prevention, protection, and holistic hair health.

Today, scalp care is no longer a luxury or an afterthought. It’s fast becoming as essential as washing, colouring, or styling – the foundation of truly healthy, beautiful hair.