Why living in Singapore is the most expensive in Southeast Asia; Gruelling Johor-Singapore commute revealed in viral video: Singapore live news

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People shop for vegetables at a wet market in Singapore March 22, 2017.  REUTERS/Edgar Su
Singapore is the most expensive Southeast Asian country, but higher incomes, excellent infrastructure, and government support mitigate its high living costs. REUTERS/Edgar Su

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Hello to all our readers, Yahoo Singapore will be bringing you live news updates today.

Singapore’s cost of living is the highest in Southeast Asia, but there’s more to the story. Yes, housing prices are skyrocketing, but so are incomes and quality of life. Singapore-based fintech company ROSHI's latest analysis dives into how Singaporeans are managing in this high-cost environment. Here's why it might be worth every dollar despite the high costs in Singapore.

The daily grind from Johor Bahru to Singapore has never looked tougher. A viral video of the Woodlands checkpoint at rush hour reveals the immense patience required for the journey, leading Reddit users to debate if the higher pay in Singapore makes it all worthwhile. For some, the commute is a dealbreaker, but others insist the financial rewards are worth every second spent in line. Here's why many commuters are willing to commute to Singapore for a better paycheck.

DBS Group has named Tan Su Shan as its new CEO, starting March, marking the first time a woman and internal candidate will lead the bank. Know more about Tan Su Shan here.

Colin Huang, the mastermind behind Pinduoduo and Temu, has become China's richest person with a net worth of $64 billion (US$48.6 billion). His success story includes founding the gamified e-commerce platform Pinduoduo, which rapidly grew in popularity and revenue, and launching the cut-price shopping app Temu, which gained massive traction in the United States. Know more about China's wealthiest billionaire Collin Huang here.

A Singapore Airlines flight landed safely at Narita Airport despite smoke from its left engine. The incident prompted a brief runway closure, but all 276 passengers and crew were unharmed. Read on about SQ638's smoky landing here.

Olympic medals are prestigious, but what if they start falling apart? US skateboarder Nyjah Huston’s Olympic bronze medal didn’t last long – literally. Just a week after winning it, Huston noticed it chipping and losing colour. More about the concerns raised on the durability of medals here.

Is your sugar substitute safe? Erythritol is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, raising concerns about the safety of artificial sweeteners. Find out more about what experts have to say about the sugar substitute here.

Baking soda is being repurposed as a health supplement for fitness and wellness, but experts warn that its benefits come with significant risks and should be used cautiously. Read on before jumping on the baking soda trend.

The Paris 2024 Olympics closed with a bang, delivering a star-studded spectacle at the Stade de France. Fireworks lit up the sky as Tom Cruise descended into the stadium, thrilling the crowd with a "Mission: Impossible"-style entrance. The event celebrated two and a half weeks of intense competition and unforgettable moments.

The French capital, famous for its iconic backdrops like the Eiffel Tower, passed the torch to Los Angeles, the host of the 2028 Olympics, in a handover that featured Cruise riding a motorcycle with the Olympic flag. Los Angeles is poised to make its mark as the third city to host the Summer Games three times. Find more of our Olympic coverage here.

Windows 10’s days are numbered, with support ending in October 2025. Microsoft is urging users to upgrade to Windows 11 to stay secure. Upgrading to Windows 11 is the easiest option if your PC can handle it. Otherwise, it might be time for a new PC or an alternative OS. What you need to know about Microsoft ending its support for Windows 10.

Singapore's National Day just got a superhero twist with the debut of Jitter, Marvel's newest mutant. This teen, part of the Outliers, brings hyper-focus abilities to the X-Men universe, mastering any skill for a fleeting minute before burning out. Her character adds depth to the Marvel world, reflecting the challenges of living with invisible disabilities. Find out why Singaporean teen Jitter's debut adds a unique cultural twist to the superhero lineup.

In a bid to streamline operations, Standard Chartered is cutting 20 jobs in Singapore and London. The bank is folding its industries coverage team into the M&A advisory group to eliminate overlaps and boost capabilities. This move is part of a larger strategy to enhance client service and increase revenue from advisory work. More StanChart's job cuts here.

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  • Featured

    Singapore, London hit by Standard Chartered's job cuts

    A Standard Chartered bank branch in Singapore October 11, 2016. REUTERS/Edgar Su
    Standard Chartered is cutting 20 jobs in Singapore and London as it merges its industries coverage team with the M&A group to eliminate redundancies and enhance capabilities. REUTERS/Edgar Su

    Standard Chartered is cutting about 20 jobs in Singapore and London as part of a major restructuring of its mergers and acquisitions (M&A) team.

    The bank is merging its industries coverage team with the M&A advisory team to eliminate duplication and streamline operations.

    This move is part of a broader effort to enhance the bank's M&A capabilities, deliver better services to clients, and maximise returns for shareholders.

    The restructuring, announced in an internal memo, will also see some industry experts redeployed to other areas within the bank, such as financing teams.

    The changes will result in a combined M&A team of over 100 bankers, with some roles being eliminated as a result of the overlap.

    This is not the first time StanChart has revamped its corporate and investment banking operations.

    Earlier this year, the bank removed layers of regional management to speed up decision-making and improve accountability.

    Read more about StanChart's job cuts here.

  • Featured

    Singaporean teen Jitter joins Marvel’s X-Men

    Singapore's National Day just got a superhero twist with the debut of Jitter, Marvel's newest mutant. (Photo: Malay Mail)
    Singapore's National Day just got a superhero twist with the debut of Jitter, Marvel's newest mutant. (Photo: Malay Mail)

    Marvel's latest addition to the X-Men universe is a Singaporean teen mutant named Jitter, who debuted on National Day (9 Aug).

    Jitter, whose real name is Sofia Yong, is part of a group of new characters called "the Outliers," introduced in a relaunch of The Uncanny X-Men series.

    Jitter's character adds to Singapore's subtle legacy in the Marvel universe, which includes the fictional island of Madripoor, loosely based on Singapore, and Tyger Tiger, a Singaporean crime boss.

    The introduction of Jitter has been met with excitement, especially since she embodies a complex character who not only deals with her powers but also speaks with a stutter, adding depth to her portrayal.

    Fans are particularly curious about Jitter's use of Singlish, the distinctive English-based creole spoken in Singapore.

    While her use of Singlish in the series is minimal, writer Gail Simone has hinted that other characters may incorporate it in the future, adding a touch of local flavour to the Marvel universe.

    Jitter's debut has resonated with fans for its representation of Singapore in a globally beloved franchise, showcasing the country's culture and identity in the world of superheroes.

    Here's why Singaporean teen Jitter makes a compelling addition to the X-Men roster.

  • Featured

    Singapore Airlines flight lands safely at Japan's Narita Airport despite engine smoke

    Changi, Singapore - February 3, 2023: Singapore Airlines Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner airplane at Changi Airport in Singapore.
    A Singapore Airlines flight landed safely at Narita Airport despite smoke billowing from an engine, leading to a brief runway closure but no injuries. (Photo: Getty Images)

    A Singapore Airlines flight SQ638 had a close call at Tokyo's Narita International Airport when smoke was spotted billowing from its left engine upon landing.

    The Boeing 787-10, carrying 276 passengers and crew, landed safely, with no injuries were reported.

    The incident prompted the closure of Runway B for nearly an hour as the plane was towed away and inspected.

    The Japanese fire department confirmed that the plane experienced an abnormality as it touched down, which led to the smoke.

    Emergency vehicles, including fire trucks, quickly surrounded the aircraft.

    A spate of high-profile airline accidents this year, including Singapore Airlines, have left a lasting impression on the public.

    More on the SQ638's smoky landing that led to the runway closure here.

  • Featured

    Living in Singapore: Worth the high price tag?

    Cost of living index in Southeast Asia. (Source: ROSHI)
    Cost of living index in Southeast Asia. (Source: ROSHI)

    Singapore ranks as the most expensive country in Southeast Asia, with a cost of living index of 85.9, according to an analysis by Singapore-based fintech company ROSHI.

    This high cost is driven primarily by significant increases in housing prices, where average HDB flat prices have reached $795,00 (US$532,768), and private houses average $2,755,000 (US$2,080,533).

    Despite the elevated costs, Singaporeans benefit from a high quality of life, supported by rising incomes and robust government initiatives that help balance the financial pressures.

    The analysis reveals that while the cost of living in Singapore is higher than its regional peers, the quality of life, infrastructure, and income levels also surpass those of neighbouring countries.

    This makes Singapore's financial landscape unique, with residents often seeing their higher expenses mitigated by other advantages.

    ROSHI's analysis also highlights that Singapore's residents enjoy excellent infrastructure, strong government support, and access to numerous public services that contribute to overall well-being.

    In contrast, other Southeast Asian countries have a lower cost of living but also face challenges such as lower income levels, less developed infrastructure, and fewer government support programs.

    Singapore's position as the most expensive country is thus counterbalanced by factors that enhance the overall living experience, making it a desirable place despite the costs.

    Find out more why there’s a silver lining despite the high costs in Singapore here.

  • Featured

    Viral video shows Johor-Singapore commute nightmare

    A viral video shows Johoreans braving a grueling daily commute to work in Singapore, sparking a debate over whether the higher wages justify the exhausting journey. (Photo: Chryeon1188/Reddit)
    A viral video shows Johoreans braving a grueling daily commute to work in Singapore, sparking a debate over whether the higher wages justify the exhausting journey. (Photo: Chryeon1188/Reddit)

    A viral video on Reddit highlighted the intense daily commute between Johor Bahru and Singapore via the Woodlands checkpoint.

    The footage shows a seemingly endless line of vehicles, underscoring the gruelling journey that many Malaysians endure for higher-paying jobs in Singapore.

    Despite the attractive wages, the exhausting commute raises questions about whether the financial benefits outweigh the daily strain.

    Opinions among commenters were mixed.

    Some users shuddered at the thought of such a commute, suggesting they would quit after just one week while some commenters insisted that the better pay and favourable exchange rates make the commute worthwhile, with a few even expressing admiration for those who make the trip daily.

    For many, the payoff seems to be the primary motivator.

    One commenter shared that their brother wakes up at 3am every day to start the journey, enduring the long wait because of the better salary.

    Another noted that the challenging commute is a test of patience, but with such lucrative rewards, many are willing to endure it.

    The video sparked a broader discussion on the sacrifices made by Malaysians who work in Singapore.

    With more than 350,000 Malaysians crossing the border daily, it's clear that many see this trade-off as worth the effort, even if it involves waking up in the early hours and spending hours in transit each day.

    Read on why many commuters are willing to commute to Singapore for a better paycheck.

  • Microsoft to pull plug on Windows 10 in Oct 2025

    Windows 11 and Windows 10 operating system logos are displayed on laptop screens for illustration photo. Krakow, Poland on February 3, 2022. (Photo by Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
    Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, leaving users with options to upgrade to Windows 11, continue using Windows 10 at their own risk, buy new PCs, or switch to alternative operating systems like ChromeOS Flex or Linux. (Photo by Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

    Microsoft will end public support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025, meaning no more updates, security patches, or technical support.

    Users are being notified with full-screen warnings about the impending deadline.

    The simplest option for users is to upgrade to Windows 11 if their computers are eligible.

    Windows 11 has matured with updates, though it may feel slower to some users.

    If a PC doesn’t meet the minimum requirements, it’s still possible to install Windows 11, but without official support or updates.

    Users can continue using Windows 10 after the support ends, but they’ll face increased security risks and potential compatibility issues with apps.

    Security experts warn that outdated systems are vulnerable to attacks, as new patches for Windows 11 could expose vulnerabilities in Windows 10.

    Users who want to keep their old PCs can consider switching to lightweight operating systems like ChromeOS Flex or Linux.

    These alternatives can extend the life of older machines but require some technical know-how and come with limitations compared to Windows.

    Here's what you need to know about Microsoft ending its support for Windows 10.

  • As Olympics end in Paris, LA gears up for 2028

    The Paris 2024 Olympics closed in a blaze of glory, with fireworks lighting up the Stade de France.

    Tom Cruise made a dramatic entrance, thrilling the crowd with a stunt straight out of "Mission: Impossible", in an epic handoff to Los Angeles.

    The French capital set the bar high, but LA is ready to bring its own unique flavour to the 2028 Games, blending Hollywood glamour with cutting-edge sports.

    More coverage of the Olympics here.

  • Baking soda: New health craze or dangerous fad?

    high angle view spoon of baking soda against yellow background
    Baking soda is making a comeback, but not just in the kitchen. (Photo: Getty Images)

    Can a kitchen staple really boost your workout?

    Baking soda is making a comeback, but not just in the kitchen.

    From boosting workout performance to easing acid reflux, people are discovering new uses for this pantry staple.

    But experts warn: tread carefully, as the risks might outweigh the benefits.

    Here's what you need to know before jumping on the baking soda trend.

  • Sweet, but risky? Sugar substitute linked to heart risk

    A small teaspoon with sugar, on a black background.
    A new study suggests that erythritol, a popular sugar substitute, might not be as harmless as it seems. (Photo: Getty Images)

    Your low-calorie sweetener could be raising your heart risks.

    A new study suggests that erythritol, a popular sugar substitute, might not be as harmless as it seems.

    Recent research connects erythritol to potential blood clot dangers.

    Should you rethink your sugar substitute? Here’s what the experts say.

  • Olympic bronze medal loses its shine in just a week

    Huston says in a video posted to Instagram that his bronze was already chipped and losing its colour days after winning it (@nyjah Instagram)
    Nyjah Huston says in a video posted to Instagram that his bronze was already chipped and losing its colour days after winning it. (Photo: @nyjah/Instagram via The Independent)

    A shiny Olympic medal is every athlete’s dream – until it isn’t.

    Concerns about the quality of Paris 2024 Olympic medals have arisen after an Olympian revealed that his bronze medal deteriorated within a week.

    Team USA skateboarder Nyjah Huston shared a video on social media showing the poor condition of the medal.

    He commented that it looked like it "went to war and back" and expressed disappointment in the quality, urging the Olympic committee to improve the standards for future medals.

    The medal, which was made partly from recycled scrap metal from the Eiffel Tower, started chipping and losing its colour shortly after the event.

    The Paris 2024 Olympic medals were designed to incorporate recycled materials as part of a sustainability initiative.

    However, this attempt to be eco-friendly may have impacted the durability of the medals.

    Read more about the concerns raised on the durability of medals here.

  • Pinduoduo and Temu founder Colin Huang rises as China’s richest person

    Colin Huang, founder and CEO of the online group discounter Pinduoduo, speaks during the company's stock trading debut at the Nasdaq Stock Market in New York, during an event in Shanghai, China July 26, 2018. Picture taken July 26, 2018.  Yin Liqin/CNS via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. CHINA OUT.
    From humble beginnings to e-commerce domination, Pinduoduo founder Colin Huang's transformation of the online shopping space is marked with innovative twists and strategic growth. Yin Liqin/CNS via REUTERS

    Colin Huang, the founder of Pinduoduo and Temu, has ascended to the top as China's wealthiest person, amassing a fortune of $64 billion (US$48.6 billion).

    Huang started from humble beginnings and turned his love for math into a billion-dollar empire.

    From humble beginnings to e-commerce domination, his transformation of the online shopping space is marked with innovative twists and strategic growth.

    Know more about Collin Huang’s masterclass in turning ambition into fortune.

  • DBS names Tan Su Shan as new CEO in historic appointment

    FILE PHOTO: DBS' Head of Wealth Management Tan Su Shan speaks during Reuters Wealth Management Summit in Singapore October 3, 2011. REUTERS/Harry Suhartono/File Photo
    FILE PHOTO: Tan Su Shan, DBS Group's head of institutional banking, has been appointed as the bank's CEO starting March. She will be the first woman to lead the bank and the first to be promoted internally. REUTERS/Harry Suhartono

    Tan Su Shan is set to become DBS Group's CEO in March, making history as the bank's first female and internal appointee.

    Currently head of institutional banking, Tan's promotion highlights her extensive experience.

    Tan's 35-year career includes significant roles at ING Baring, Morgan Stanley, and Citigroup.

    She joined DBS in 2010, significantly impacting wealth management and consumer banking.

    Her primary focus will be on boosting tech resilience at DBS.

    Analysts expect her to maintain the bank's strategic direction and stability.

    Know more about Tan Su Shan here.