Singapore Government Support Boosts Local Farms and Job Opportunities
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) says that Singapore’s high-productivity farms are helping to create quality employment opportunities — particularly for younger workers — by offering modern agricultural roles that appeal to tech-savvy talent. One indoor farm operator told the media that over the past five years they have more than doubled their workforce; they now employ 15 people, about one-third of whom are aged under 25. The farm’s indoor-plant-factory manager, Lee Yuanhao, said the most important attributes they look for in new recruits are strong work-ethic and observational skills. He emphasised that while technical skills can be taught, the attitude must already be there: “If they bring the right attitude, anything can be learned. If they don’t bring seriousness then no matter how we teach, it’s the same.” According to the SFA, high-productivity farms require talents with multidisciplinary expertise — covering agriculture and aquaculture, engineering, and data analysis. They are working together with the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), the Agency for Skills Development, employers and higher-education institutions to develop a skills framework for the agri-food industry, offering training courses and funding at various levels to nurture these talents. One farm founder, Wang Xueli, said that many of the young recruits are recent graduates or interns. She pointed out that one employee is currently studying for a Work-Study Diploma in agriculture and aquaculture at ITE, which she believes will give a solid foundation: “Many Singaporeans are used to structured learning; this lets them begin thinking and exploring the whole industry by themselves.” Farmers say local demand for home-grown vegetables is increasing year by year, but more needs to be done to lift market-demand further. They are already prepared in terms of equipment and manpower — and once demand increases, they will scale up production accordingly.
Former preschool cook pleads guilty to molesting toddler during nap times
A 61-year-old permanent resident originally from Malaysia, Teo Guan Huat, has admitted guilt in court to three charges of molesting young children at a preschool in Singapore. He faces a further five charges which will be taken into account during sentencing. According to the court’s record, Teo was employed at the preschool for around one year in 2023. Although his official role was as the cook, he also assisted with child-care tasks such as helping children during nap time or bath time. Between May and November 2023, he is alleged to have repeatedly exploited his access to three approximately two-year-old girls with whom he was closer, carrying out molestation acts while they were being settled for nap or were asleep. He reportedly committed these acts two to three times a week during that period. On 16 November 2023, a staff member reviewing CCTV footage observed Teo inserting his hand into a toddler’s diaper and performing at least nine separate molestation acts within about an hour. Following the revelation, Teo resigned from his post on 23 November after being questioned by the preschool’s management. The employer only alerted the police after some delay, during which CCTV footage was deleted and the system was reformatted by other staff, who were later charged. The police retrieved the deleted recordings and arrested Teo on 4 December. The prosecution described the case as “one of the most horrifying sexual abuse incidents ever in a preschool setting”, emphasising that parents entrust their children to such institutions and expect them to be safe. They are seeking a 10-year prison sentence. Teo’s defence lawyer argued that although Teo deeply regrets his actions, the preschool allowed him to be in such a position of trust with children. They requested a six-year prison term and no caning. Due to Teo’s age (over 50), he is not eligible for caning under Singapore’s current legislation. The judge has reserved the sentencing decision to allow time for full consideration. A gag order is in place to protect the identities of the toddler victims and prohibits publication of any identifying preschool details.
PM Lawrence Wong: ASEAN+3 Must Strengthen Cooperation to Tackle Global Challenges
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has called on ASEAN and its three East Asian partners — China, Japan and South Korea — to deepen collaboration and enhance regional resilience in the face of mounting global uncertainties. Speaking at the ASEAN Plus Three (ASEAN+3) Summit, Mr Wong emphasised that the partnership has been instrumental in promoting economic integration and stability across the region, but must now evolve to address new and complex challenges such as climate change, food security and technological transformation. He noted that the ASEAN+3 cooperation framework, established more than two decades ago in response to the Asian financial crisis, continues to play a vital role in safeguarding regional financial stability. The initiative, he said, demonstrates how countries can work together to overcome crises and sustain growth. Mr Wong urged member states to further strengthen supply-chain resilience, expand cooperation in the digital and green economies, and ensure that economic growth remains inclusive and sustainable. He added that close coordination between ASEAN and its three partners will be key to maintaining regional peace and prosperity amid a more fragmented global environment. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to working with ASEAN+3 partners to uphold multilateralism, strengthen connectivity, and advance shared development goals.
5 Best Cycling Routes in Singapore: Park and Nature Theme
Explore Singapore on two wheels! Whether you’re cruising along the coast, weaving through lush parks, or taking on the ultimate island challenge, Singapore offers some of the most scenic and cyclist-friendly routes in Asia! From peaceful park connectors to epic long-distance rides, these 5 best cycling routes in Singapore; promise stunning views, diverse terrains, and pure adventure. Grab your helmet, gear up, and let’s roll through the Lion City’s top cycling trails! 1. East Coast Park → Marina Bay → Gardens by the Bay Distance: ~20 km (one-way)Suitable for: Leisure cyclists and families.Tip: Stop for coffee at Cyclist Park or Marina Barrage rooftop.Highlights: Find an easy cycling guide with Bikemap from East Coast Park to Marina Bay 2. Round Island Route (RIR) Distance: ~150 km (full loop)Suitable for: Experienced riders or long-distance enthusiasts.Tip: Do it in segments if 150 km is too long — e.g., East Coast–Punggol, or Seletar–Jurong.Highlights: 3. Coney Island & Punggol Waterway Park Distance: ~10–15 km (loop)Suitable for: Nature lovers and beginners.Tip: Bring water — there are few refill stations inside Coney Island.Highlights: 4. Jurong Lake Gardens → Bukit Batok Nature Park Distance: ~12 km (one-way)Suitable for: Recreational riders and families in the West.Tip: Combine with Ulu Pandan Park Connector for a longer route (~20 km).Highlights: 5. Changi Airport → Changi Village → East Coast Park Distance: ~26 km (loop)Suitable for: Casual riders or weekend group rides.Tip: Try night cycling — safe, quiet, and scenic with minimal traffic.Highlights: Conclusion These are the 5 best cycling routes in Singapore — whether you love cityscapes or nature trails, there’s a route for every cyclist, from beginner to advanced. Recommendation? For a mix of city and park views, ride along East Coast Park. Prefer a calm, scenic escape? Coney Island awaits with lush greenery and wildlife. No bike? No problem! Rent one easily from HelloRide or Anywheel, and start your ride today! Explore more essential tools you need in Singapore!