News

Singapore hits vaccination milestone

Published

5 years ago

August 10, 2021

The government had hoped to have two-thirds of the population fully vaccinated by National Day on August 9.

That goal has been met, with 70% of the population now fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Some coronavirus curbs in the city-state have been eased today, following a partial lockdown that was triggered by COVID-19 clusters linked to karaoke lounges and a fishery port.

The size of public gatherings has been increased from two to five, and restrictions on entry for foreign workers have been eased.

There are now different rules for those who are vaccinated and those who are not, when it comes to eating out.

Only people who are fully vaccinated, or unvaccinated people with a negative COVID-19 test result, will be allowed to dine-in at restaurants and bars.

Dining-in is permitted for groups of up to two at hawker centres and cafes, regardless of vaccination status.

Mass vaccination drives transition to a new-normal

Working from home is currently the default arrangement, but from August 19 up to 50% of employees will be able to return to the workplace.

79 per cent of people have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, with the Lion City on track to have 80% of its population fully vaccinated by early September.

When this target is reached, there will be a further relaxation of measures.

This is likely to include the introduction of quarantine-free travel for vaccinated travellers.

Such a move would mark a big step forward for Singapore, as part of its transition to a new-normal in which the population learn to live with COVID-19.

Buckle up Singapore, here’s a brand new safety video to get everyone ready for a whole new normal! #TestTraceVaccinate

For more: https://t.co/FfrPW5sKb3 pic.twitter.com/ORRsJ5OyWk
— Singapore Government (@govsingapore) July 2, 2021

Vaccination drive continues

The city-state now have one of the best vaccination rates in the world, but authorities are still pushing for more people to get inoculated.

From today, all Singaporeans, permanent residents and long-term pass holders who are not yet vaccinated will not need to make an appointment. They can simply walk up to a clinic.

There is also a real push to vaccinate those aged 70 and above, who were the first group eligible to be vaccinated but have the lowest take up rate.

The Ministry of Health says “vaccination remains a key enabler in our fight against Covid-19″, urging “all who are eligible to be vaccinated”.

News

UK police seek former aides’ insights on Prince Andrew

UK police contact ex-protection officers of Prince Andrew amid misconduct investigation linked to Jeffrey Epstein allegations

Published

2 days ago

February 21, 2026

Ahron Young

UK police contact ex-protection officers of Prince Andrew amid misconduct investigation linked to Jeffrey Epstein allegations

In Short:
– Police seek former protection officers of Prince Andrew for info on alleged Epstein-related offences.
– Authorities consider removing Mountbatten-Windsor from royal succession after investigation conclusions.

British police are reaching out to former protection officers of Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor following his recent arrest related to allegations of misconduct in a public office.

The police have urged anyone with information about potential sex offences connected to Jeffrey Epstein to come forward.Authorities are considering legislative measures to remove Mountbatten-Windsor from the royal succession line once the investigation concludes. Any changes would require consultation with other realms where King Charles is head of state.

The recent allegations stem from claims that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential government documents with Epstein during his time as a trade envoy. The London Metropolitan Police is now identifying former officers who may assist in the ongoing investigation and has encouraged them to share any pertinent information.

Mountbatten-Windsor has denied wrongdoing in the Epstein matter.

In 2022, he settled a civil lawsuit filed in the U.S. by Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse. Reports indicated he paid her approximately £12 million, a claim he denies.

Police Investigation

London authorities are reassessing previous decisions not to pursue criminal investigations related to Epstein’s activities.

Recent document releases from the U.S. government have prompted police to explore allegations of human trafficking involving Epstein at UK airports.

Police have been actively searching Mountbatten-Windsor’s residences as part of their investigation. His arrest marks an unprecedented event in modern royal history, raising significant public interest and concern in various countries.

News

Supreme Court strikes down Trump’s tariffs, plans 10% global levy

Trump vows new 10% global tariff after Supreme Court rules against his previous tariffs, calling the decision ‘deeply disappointing’

Published

2 days ago

February 21, 2026

Ahron Young

Trump vows new 10% global tariff after Supreme Court rules against his previous tariffs, calling the decision ‘deeply disappointing’

In Short:
– The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that Trump lacks authority for tariffs without Congress support.
– Over 1,000 refund lawsuits from importers complicate the tariff issue, particularly for smaller businesses.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled against President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, stating he lacks the authority to impose tariffs without clear congressional support. Trump expressed disappointment and plans to implement a new 10% global tariff under different legal provisions.

Economists estimate more than $175 billion is at risk of refunds related to previously established tariffs, with potential litigations expected to last several years.Trump’s administration faces over 1,000 refund lawsuits from importers in the Court of International Trade, which ruled it can grant refunds to affected businesses. Each importer may need to pursue individual lawsuits, complicating the process, especially for smaller businesses that could find the financial burden prohibitive.

Learning Resources Inc., a toy company led by Rick Woldenberg, has contested these tariffs, potentially qualifying for refunds. Woldenberg hopes the Supreme Court ruling will initiate reflection on necessary economic adjustments.

Economic Impact

Economists suggest consumers may not notice significant changes due to persistent tariffs on numerous products. U.S. Treasury estimates predict the deputy’s revenue will remain largely unchanged despite Trump’s new plans to increase tariffs through other channels, specifically under Sections 122 and 301 of the Trade Act.

Trump’s forthcoming address to Congress is expected to address the implications of this ruling, which notably undermines a fundamental aspect of his trade agenda.

Despite past assurances regarding reform, uncertainties remain for both businesses and consumers as the administration explores future tariff strategies.

News

Bill Gates withdraws from India AI Impact Summit before keynote

Bill Gates withdraws from India’s AI Impact Summit amid renewed scrutiny over past ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

Published

2 days ago

February 20, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Bill Gates withdraws from India’s AI Impact Summit amid renewed scrutiny over past ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

Bill Gates has withdrawn from India’s AI Impact Summit just hours before his keynote, as scrutiny grows over his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein following the release of US Justice Department emails.

The summit has faced criticism over organisational issues and traffic disruptions, drawing attention away from its mission. Despite the chaos, it has secured over $200 billion in investment commitments, including a major pledge from Reliance Industries.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the platform to stress the importance of protecting children in the rapidly evolving world of AI.

Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker