Death penalty support rises in Singapore amid crime concerns; Singapore crowned world's strongest passport: Singapore live news
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The 2023 Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) survey showed that 77.4 per cent of Singaporeans support the death penalty for serious crimes, up from 73.7 per cent in 2021. Approval for the mandatory death penalty also increased significantly for drug trafficking (68.7 per cent), firearm offences (74.3 per cent), and intentional murder (85 per cent). Respondents expressed strong belief in the deterrent effect of the death penalty, with 87.9 per cent and 90.2 per cent asserting its effectiveness against drug trafficking and murder, respectively. Furthermore, a majority preferred retaining the mandatory death penalty, viewing it as a stronger deterrent than discretionary options. Confidence in the criminal justice system remains high, with nearly 90% trusting that death penalty cases are handled fairly. Read on why more Singaporeans support the death penalty for serious crimes here.
Good news for coffee lovers: recent research indicates that drinking moderate amounts of coffee may protect against serious health issues like diabetes and heart disease. This study sheds light on the benefits of caffeine and offers guidelines for optimal consumption. Read on if you are ready to fill your cup for better health.
Delta Air Lines is reminding prospective flight attendants about its strict appearance standards, which include the requirement of wearing "proper" underwear that is not visible. The airline's leaked memo outlines various grooming and attire expectations, such as natural hair colours, appropriate nail styles, and specific jewellery rules. Professional clothing is mandated, with detailed guidelines for both male and female uniforms. Furthermore, Delta prohibits candidates from using profanity, chewing gum, or using phones during interviews. Find out why Delta's new dress code is making headlines here.
A mother and her son are the first to be prosecuted for misleading Singapore's tax authority during an audit of a "99-to-1" property scheme. During the audit, the son allegedly provided false explanations about his financial circumstances to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). This arrangement allows property buyers to reduce their Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) liability by initially purchasing a property entirely in one name and then selling a small share to another owner. If found guilty, both face substantial fines or imprisonment. Read more on the IRAS's action against property tax evasion here.
Singapore's Apple store became a hot spot of excitement as the iPhone 16 hit the shelves. Enthusiastic fans started lining up at 4am, reflecting the enduring allure of Apple products. More on the buzz around Apple's iPhone 16 launch in Singapore here.
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Joel Balbin
Singaporeans flock to Apple store for iPhone 16 launch
The Orchard flagship Apple store in Singapore came alive with anticipation as fans started lining up at 4am to get their hands on the iPhone 16.
With a countdown to the store opening, cheers erupted as eager customers flooded in to pick up their pre-ordered devices.
Among the crowd, stories emerged of first-time Apple launch attendees and seasoned fans alike, all excited about the device that promises a new era of AI integration with iOS 18.
The iPhone 16 marks a new era for Apple, integrating AI capabilities that will officially roll out in October.
This phone features two new buttons: the Camera Control and an Action button, alongside new colour options.
Analysts are watching closely, as Apple’s previous quarter saw a decline in iPhone sales, making this launch crucial for the company.
iOS 18, available from September 16, introduces various enhancements for users, including the ability to schedule messages, lock apps with Face ID, and customise app icons.
These features are designed to improve user experience, allowing for more personalisation and efficiency.
Users can access iOS 18 on iPhone models dating back to XS and XR.
IRAS charges mum-son duo over landmark property tax avoidance case
A mother and son in Singapore have been charged on Friday (20 Sept) with providing false information to tax authorities regarding a controversial property purchase scheme in landmark case.
Mdm Ng Chiew Yen and her son, Tan Kai Wen, have been charged by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) for providing false and misleading information during an audit related to a "99-to-1" property transaction.
This prosecution marks the first case of its kind and highlights IRAS's focus on potential tax avoidance schemes in real estate purchases.
Both individuals face five charges under the Stamp Duties Act, with penalties including fines up to $10,000 or jail time.
In this arrangement, one person initially purchases a property outright and then sells a small 1 per cent share to someone else who already owns property.
This allows the buyer to pay ABSD only on the small share rather than the entire property value, thereby circumventing higher taxes.
The case against Ng and Tan arose when IRAS audited the transactions related to a condominium purchased by Tan.
During the audit, Tan allegedly misled IRAS about his financial situation, claiming he had to add his mother as a joint owner to secure a loan after his family was unable to support him.
However, evidence indicated that his responses were misleading and incomplete.
IRAS has stated that tax avoidance is a serious matter and has the authority to recover unpaid stamp duty and impose surcharges.
They encourage taxpayers who may have engaged in similar schemes to come forward voluntarily, as such disclosures may be treated more leniently.
A cash reward is available for informants who provide information leading to the recovery of lost tax revenues.
If convicted, both Ng and Tan could face significant penalties.
Is the Singapore GP still the toughest race on the F1 calendar?
The F1 Singapore Grand Prix rolls into town this weekend, promising an exhilarating showdown on one of toughest tracks in the world.
Drivers know they must conquer both heat and a tricky circuit layout to emerge victorious.
This night race is characterised by its challenging Marina Bay Street Circuit, where limited overtaking opportunities make it difficult for drivers to navigate.
The Qatar Grand Prix is gaining attention for its punishing conditions lately.
Drivers have noted the physical toll of Qatar’s high-speed corners and oppressive heat, with temperatures averaging 32.4°C.
Despite being shorter in duration, the race presents its own unique challenges that test driver endurance and concentration.
Both the Singapore and Qatar races demand high levels of fitness and concentration from the drivers.
Singapore’s blend of heat and humidity contrasts with Qatar’s speed and layout challenges, creating a debate about which is truly the more demanding race.
Support for these mandatory sentences rose to 68.7 per cent, 74.3 per cent, and 85 per cent respectively, compared to previous figures.
The findings suggest a broader consensus on the necessity of stringent punishments to deter serious crimes in society.
Approval ratings for the death penalty's effectiveness against drug trafficking and murder increased significantly, reaching 87.9 per cent and 90.2 per cent, respectively.
Furthermore, many believed that the death penalty was a more effective deterrent than life imprisonment.
Confidence in the Singapore criminal justice system remained high, with nearly 90 per cent of respondents trusting that death penalty cases were managed fairly and rigorously.
Trust in the judicial system remains robust, as most respondents feel confident that safeguards prevent wrongful executions.
The Singaporean passport has clinched the title of the strongest passport globally in a recent ranking with a score of 91.27.
Singaporean passport holders now enjoy the ultimate travel freedom, accessing 169 countries without a visa, according to VisaGuide.World passport ranking, which considers various factors such as visa-free access, eVisas, and global mobility, evaluating a total of 199 countries and territories.
The Singapore passport's strength is highlighted its extensive mobility with visa-free travel to 169 countries, and just 14 countries needing an eVisa as well as 22 others requiring a visa.
Rounding of the five are Spain, France, Italy, and Hungary, showcasing a predominance of European nations in the global rankings.
Notably, Japan, while traditionally strong, ranks 15th this year.
VisaGuide.World releases its rankings quarterly, providing a timely look at passport strength as global entry policies evolve.
The ranking methodology employs a unique Destination Significance Score (DSS) that assesses each passport’s value based on the entry policies of various destinations, their GDP, global influence, and tourism potential.
Businesswoman Cristiana Barsony-Arcidiacono has denied accusations of manufacturing explosive pagers linked to a deadly attack on Hezbollah.
These devices detonated simultaneously in Lebanon and Syria, resulting in at least 12 deaths and over 3,000 injuries.
The Taiwanese company whose branding appeared on the pagers claims they were made by Barsony-Arcidiacono's Budapest-based firm, which she contends was only an intermediary in the supply chain.
The explosions are believed to have been orchestrated by Israeli intelligence, with reports suggesting that explosives were hidden in the pagers.
The operation indicates a significant breach in Hezbollah’s communications and raises concerns about the extent of the Israeli infiltration.
Following the initial blast, further explosions occurred, killing at least 20 more people, leading to fears of escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
The deadly pager attacks marked a sophisticated Israeli operation targeting Hezbollah, which has been in conflict with Israel since Hamas's recent attacks.
Hezbollah officials have stated the detonations represent a major security failure for their organisation, and they vow to retaliate against Israel.
Delta mandates 'proper' underwear for flight attendant interviews
Delta Air Lines is reinforcing its appearance standards for prospective flight attendants, specifically emphasising the need for "proper" underwear during interviews.
A leaked memo detailed these requirements, highlighting that undergarments must not be visible. The airline encourages candidates to "dress for success" to create a positive first impression.
The memo outlines a range of grooming and attire guidelines beyond underwear, such as expectations for hair, jewellery, and overall cleanliness.
Hair must have natural colours and be secured away from the face, while grooming standards emphasise personal hygiene and appropriate nail styles.
Tattoos must be covered, and only specific types of piercings are allowed.
The memo further states that professional attire is required, including proper-fitting clothing and closed-toe shoes, with specific rules for male uniforms.
During interviews, candidates are prohibited from using profanity, chewing gum, or using phones.
Research shows that consuming one to three cups of coffee daily can significantly lower the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
The study, which analysed data from over 500,000 individuals, highlights that coffee drinkers enjoy a 48 per cent reduced risk compared to non-drinkers.
Moderate caffeine consumption is linked to better heart health, while excessive caffeine from energy drinks can have negative effects.
Experts recommend enjoying black coffee in moderation to reap the health benefits.
The families of the 11 Tennessee plastics plant workers swept away by Hurricane Helene’s deadly floodwaters are demanding answers from the company after its officials claimed no flood warnings or alerts were issued before the start of the workers’ shift, contradicting official weather reports.
“You’re not welcome back.”That’s the message the manager of Philadelphia cheesesteak joint Max’s Steaks had for Pennsylvania Republican U.S. Senate candidate Dave McCormick, after his campaign held an event outside the restaurant Friday that the eatery was told would be about autism awareness.Mike Sfida—who agreed to hold the event because his niece and nephew have autism—was alarmed when he saw Donald Trump signs being hung outside the beloved North Philly spot on Friday, the Philadelphia Inqui
A California vineyard owner is suing Santa Clara County after officials fined him for allowing his longtime employee to live in an RV on his property for years. Michael Ballard, whose family owns Savannah-Chanelle Vineyards in a town south of San Francisco, alleges he was fined a total of more than $120,000 after the county said he violated local zoning laws that ban anyone from living in an RV on public or private property, according to the The Mercury News. Marcelino Martinez, manager of the vineyard, which is around 2.6 million square feet (243,000 square meters), said his family lost their lease on a trailer they were living in years ago and had limited options for affordable housing in the area.
Canadian musician Jacob Hoggard was found not guilty Friday of sexually assaulting a young woman in northeastern Ontario eight years ago, the culmination of a roughly two-week trial that saw both the singer and his accuser paint starkly different pictures of what happened.
PARIS (AP) — A French judge in the trial of dozens of men accused of raping an unconscious woman whose now former husband had repeatedly drugged her so that he and others could assault her decided on Friday to allow the public to see some of the video recordings of the alleged rapes.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A former Minnesota police officer who was convicted of killing a Black motorist when she used her handgun instead of her taser during a traffic stop is out of prison and delivering presentations at law enforcement conferences, stirring up a heated debate over how officers punished for misconduct should atone for their misdeeds.
A mayor in Tennessee joined other local officials Friday to denounce skepticism and rumors that have swirled around the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) response to the devastation in the southeastern U.S. from Hurricane Helene. Mayor Glenn Jacobs (R), who serves Knox County, Tenn., signaled in a post online that the attacks on the administration…
Less than 10 days after Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida, the state is bracing for another potentially devastating blow from a hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico, this one a potential Category 3 storm.
Global News has learned Imperial Oil in southern Ontario is facing one of the largest environmental fines the province has issued and it's all due to an oil spill back in 2021. The refinery has been ordered to pay $1.1 million. More than a thousand litres of slop oil leaked into the ground. The refinery is located on the south side of Sarnia, roughly 1 km from Aamjiwnaang First Nation. Carolyn Jarvis reports.
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — An Idaho man who prosecutors said ambushed and shot correctional officers at a Boise hospital in a plot to help a fellow white supremacist gang member escape from prison was sentenced to life behind bars on Friday.
A rural Colorado county courthouse beefed up security Friday after threats were made against staff and a judge who sentenced former county clerk Tina Peters to nearly nine years behind bars and admonished her for her role in a data breach scheme catalyzed by the lie that the 2020 election was stolen from former President Donald Trump.
A judge ripped into a Colorado county clerk for her crimes and lies before sentencing her Thursday to nine years behind bars for a data-breach scheme spawned from the rampant false claims about voting machine fraud in the 2020 presidential race.
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (AP) — An Ohio court has referred to county prosecutors a criminal case brought by a citizens' group against the Republican presidential and vice presidential candidates over their comments about Haitian immigrants but rejected the group's call to issue arrest warrants or misdemeanor summons.