If you were to Google home remedies for burns, you would find a whole range of weird and wonderful suggestions - from dabbing it with honey, to covering it in tea bags. And while we don't recommend testing any of these out for yourself, a doctor has warned there's one thing you should absolutely never try and use to soothe a burn. Dr Kamarul Ariffin, of Malaysia, has urged people not to put toothpaste on their burns, as it could have a very nasty side effect. To further prove his point, the medic shared a horrific image of a woman's hand, after she'd attempted to treat a hot oil burn with Colgate toothpaste. Instead of making her wound better, the woman's hand had swelled in size to a point where it was almost unrecognisable. The picture also shows the hand is covered in incredibly painful looking blisters. As a result, he warned people not to use home remedies as they could cause infection and irritation. The doctor added that those who have suffered a burn, should also never pop the blisters. Instead they should remove any burnt clothing or jewellery from the area, unless it's stuck to the skin and he recommends rinsing the wound with clean, room temperature water for 15 to 20 minute - not cold water or ice. This comment sparked concern on Twitter , with people asking if they could apply aloe vera to the affected area or not. Dr Ariffin replied: "Stop the burning first. Run water first. If it's a first degree burn, can apply aloe vera. "If it's a second or third degree, see a doctor first before applying anything." If this warning wasn't enough to convince you not to rub toothpaste all over a burn, take it from the manufacturers themselves. In a post on their website, Colgate have also told people to only use the products for their intended purposes. They wrote: "Toothpaste contains abrasives and detergents, which work well for cleaning your teeth, but not so well when in easing the pain pain of a burn." read more
Rozz explores the Filipino way of nose-to-tail dining, where no part of an animal is wasted. As she learns, the Filipinos really do eat EVERYTHING. From slimy swamp creatures to dangerous predators, there's never a dull moment in her weird food quest in the Philippines.
US Air Force gears up for aggressor drills to simulate combat
Two Chinese J-20 stealth fighter jets perform at an air show in Guangdong province last year. Photo: AP
The United States Air Force will use its F-35A fifth-generation fighters to mimic the role of its Chinese counterpart, the J-20 “Powerful Dragon”, in “aggressor” training exercises amid rising concern in Washington about Beijing’s growing strength in strategically sensitive areas such as the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. Aggressor exercises are drills that seek to mimic the tactics and techniques of other forces to give its pilots the most realistic possible experience of high-level conflict. A total of 11 F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters will be transferred to the recently reactivated 65th Aggressor Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, where they will play the role of the J-20, according to a report by Military.com, a US forces news site. readmore America’s F-35 fighter jet vs China’s J-20: which is better, cheaper, stealthier?
A combination image shows the US Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, left, and the Chinese J-20. Photos: Alamy, Dickson Lee US president-elect Donald Trump said on Monday that the cost of building the US military’s next-generation fighter jet, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, had spiralled “out of control”. “The F-35 programme and cost is out of control. Billions of dollars can and will be saved on military (and other) purchases after January 20th,” Trump wrote on his Twitter account, referring to the day he will be sworn in as president. Trump’s criticism amid a sluggish US economy revealed the expensive deal between the US government and the jet’s designer and manufacturer Lockheed Martin, which has pushed the cost beyond US$400 billion, making the plane the most expensive weapons system in military history. Compared with the US’s F-35, China’s newest J-20 warplane is much cheaper. readmore China’s J-20 stealth fighter jet lines up for combat duty, boosting firepower in the sky
China has confirmed that its J-20 stealth fighter has entered combat service. Photo: AP
China’s J-20 stealth fighter has entered combat service, the country’s armed forces confirmed on Friday, expanding the military’s air power options as it presses on with a massive modernisation programme. People’s Liberation Army Air Force spokesman Shen Jinke said the deployment of the J-20 to combat units would “help the air force better shoulder the sacred mission of safeguarding national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity”. Shen said the air force was moving towards a modernised military service that could operate in all fronts, and had become an effective force to control, contain and win a war. readmore China deploys J-20 stealth fighter ‘to keep tabs on Taiwan’
China’s J-20 stealth fighter has been officially deployed to the country’s Eastern Theatre Command, suggesting it will be focused on the Taiwan Strait and military activities between Japan and the United States, observers said. The People’s Liberation Army Air Force posted a photo on its social media account this week showing the fifth-generation fighter tagged with the number 62001, designating the aircraft as part of a frontline unit. Chinese media reported that the stealth fighter had entered the Eastern Theatre Command, which encompasses Taiwan. readmore Does China’s J-20 rival other stealth fighters?
The Chengdu J-20 marks the first entry of a multirole stealth fighter into China’s armed forces. According to the Department of Defense (DOD), China views stealth technology as a core component in the transformation of its air force from “a predominantly territorial air force to one capable of conducting both offensive and defensive operations.” Designed for enhanced stealth and maneuverability, the J-20 has the potential to provide China with a variety of previously unavailable air combat options and enhance its capability to project power. As an advanced multirole stealth fighter, it is speculated that the J-20 can fulfill both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat roles for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and the aviation branch of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (referred to as either Naval Aviation or the PLAN-AF). According to PLAAF Senior Colonel Shen Jinke, the J-20 will enhance the overall combat capability of China’s air force. A 2016 report by the DOD states that the J-20 represents a critical step in China’s efforts to develop “advanced aircraft to improve its regional power projection capabilities and to strengthen its ability to strike regional airbases and facilities.” In 2014, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission described the J-20 as “more advanced than any other fighter currently deployed by Asia Pacific countries.” The J-20 is believed to be equipped with subsystems and field signature reduction technology that collectively meet the internationally-accepted classification of a “fifth-generation” aircraft. This refers to military aircraft featuring the general requirements of stealth technology, supersonic cruising speed, and highly integrated avionics. The J-20 is the first Chinese aircraft to fit this description, and it may serve as a critical asset for both the air force and the navy. As these branches have different areas of responsibility, how the J-20 is ultimately utilized is likely to vary. In broad terms, the PLAAF is China’s mainstay for air operations and is responsible for homeland air defense, while Naval Aviation is tasked with fleet air defense and defending the territorial waters and coastline of China. readmore Just How Good Is China's New J-20 Stealth Fighter?
The fifth-generation fighter should be fully operational by 2019 at the latest
China's first stealth fighter, the Chengdu J-20, "has the potential to provide China with a variety of previously unavailable air combat options and enhance its capability to project power." That's the conclusion of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington D.C.-based security think tank. CSIS also concludes that the fighter, first flown in 2011, could enter service as soon as 2018. The J-20 shocked the world in 2011, when China unveiled the plane during a state visit by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. Although China was known to be working on a large fighter, known as the J-XX, the extent to which the country had made progress on a so-called "fifth generation fighter"—which only the United States had successfully developed—shocked experts. CSIS assesses the J-20 as a full fifth-generation fighter, which means it includes stealth technology, supersonic cruising speed, and highly integrated avionics as part of the criteria. It also believes that at 34,000 to 37,000 kilograms, the J-20 is slightly lighter than the American F-22 Raptor. Like the F-22, the J-20 is powered by two afterburning turbofan engines. The rearward placement of the engines, according to CSIS, likely means it has more useable internal volume than the F-22. Stealthy aircraft, to remain stealthy, must hide weapons and fuel in internal bays within their fuselages. The J-20 has three such bays, two for smaller air-to-air missiles and a single large belly bay for larger air-to-air, anti-ship, and air-to-ground missiles. readmore Chengdu J-20
The Chengdu J-20 is a fifth-generation, stealth, twin-engine fighter aircraft prototype being developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group for the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The J-20 made its first flight on 11 January 2011. General He Weirong, Deputy Commander of the People's Liberation Army Air Force said in November 2009 that he expected the J-20 to be operational in 2017–2019. The PLAAF designates the J-20 as "Project 718". The general designer of the aircraft is reportedly Yang Wei, who was the general designer of CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder. In 2002, Jane's Defence Weekly reported that Shenyang Aircraft Corporation had been selected to head research and development of the new fighter, a claim repeated in New Scientist the same week. However, a 2006 article in Military Technology referred to three designs; two by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and one by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. According to the report from Jane's, development of the subsystems, including the engine and weapon suite for the next generation fighter, has been under way for some time. A photograph of a wind tunnel model published with the article showed a twin-engine aircraft with twin vertical tail fins. The article text mentioned that the aircraft would carry its weapons internally like the F-22 Raptor. New Scientist called attention to the angular, faceted features of the design, comparing them to the F-117 Nighthawk. Jane's also linked the programme with China's development of an engine with thrust vectoring capability. The later report in Military Technology featured a picture of a completely different design, speculatively dubbed J-14 and said to be a Shenyang project, with the designations J-12 and J-13 being applied to (possibly competing) designs by Shenyang and Chengdu respectively. readmore America's F-22 Raptor vs. China's Stealth J-20: Who Wins?
The eagle vs. the dragon in a 5th generation fighter showdown. Who would dominate the skies over Asia?
Despite its recent economic troubles, the People’s Republic of China is likely to be the only peer level competitor to the United States over the next fifty years. While a conflict is unlikely—a Third World War is in nobody’s interests—the United States must be prepared for such an eventuality. As with all modern conventional wars, airpower and air superiority will play a key role. For the United States, the stealthy Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor will be America’s premier weapon to ensure dominance over the skies until it is eventually replaced by whatever comes out of the U.S. Air Force’s F-X program. The most direct Chinese analogue to the Raptor is the Chengdu J-20. How would such a jet fair against America’s best? readmore J-20
The Chengdu J-20 (Jian-20) (Chinese: 歼-二十) is a fifth generation, stealth, twin engine, single-seat fighter aircraft being developed by the Chengdu Industry Group for the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). It entered active service in March 2017. The J-20 appears as the PLA stealth fighter. It is the counterpart to the USMC F-35 and the RGF Su-50. The main role of the stealth fighter is air superiority over a map. As such, it is armed with a variety of anti-air missiles, while ground attack weapons are very limited. As with both Stealth and Attack Jets, all aircraft have built in Air Radar specialization by default. All the stealth jets perform equally in terms of turning and acceleration. Similar to Battlefield 3, flying close to the ground will result in the aircraft putting out the landing gear, which can make maneuvers close to the ground difficult. Afterburners are enabled by pressing the sprint button, which works like the sprint and boost of other vehicles -- making the vehicle faster, but less maneuverable. readmore Chinese scientists hail ‘incredible’ stealth breakthrough that may blind military radar systems
China’s J-20 stealth fighter. Photo: AFP
Chinese scientists have achieved a series of breakthroughs in stealth materials technology that they claim can make fighter jets and other weaponry lighter, cheaper to build and less vulnerable to radar detection. Professor Luo Xiangang and colleagues at the Institute of Optics and Electronics, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Chengdu, Sichuan province, said they had created the world’s first mathematical model to precisely describe the behaviour of electromagnetic waves when they strike a piece of metal engraved with microscopic patterns, according to a statement posted on the academy’s website on Monday. With their new model and breakthroughs in materials fabrication, they developed a membrane, known as a meta surface, which can absorb radar waves in the widest spectrum yet reported. At present, stealth aircraft mainly rely on special geometry – their body shape – to deflect radar signals, but those designs can affect aerodynamic performance. They also use radar absorbing paint, which has a high density but only works against a limited frequency spectrum. readmore China tests stealth ‘invisibility cloaks’ on regular fighter jets
China is testing an “invisibility cloak” on non-stealth military jets to help them evade radar detection, according to scientists involved in the project. If successful, the technology could quickly boost the combat strength of the jets, the researchers say. But others say the technology was difficult to mass produce, limited to a small range of radar bandwidths and would need to be combined with other devices to be truly effective. The technology involves the use of a “metamaterial”, a fabricated layer comprising microscopic structures similar to integrated circuits. The metamaterial can alter the way radio waves bounce off its surface to create a ghost image or minimise echo on a radar, helping hide the aircraft in flight with greater efficiency. readmore
Wih the hike in electricity tariffs, Singaporeans are feeling the pinch from the increase in their electricity bill. Many of us are looking to reduce their spending on electricity. To do so, one must reduce their electricity usage. The easiest way to do so is to use energy efficient home appliances. However, how does one decide which appliances are the most efficient? Also, can you really save that much money by making the switch to such appliances? Tackling this issues may seem like a daunting task. However, do not fear! For we are here to walk you through the steps. With these 4 quick and dirty tips, We will show you how to differentiate between energy guzzlers and energy efficient home appliances:
Mr Tan Cheng Bock, founder and secretary-general of the Progress Singapore Party, at a media conference on Jul 26, 2019. (Photo: Jeremy Long) There has been an “erosion” of transparency, independence and accountability within the Government, said Dr Tan Cheng Bock on Friday (Jul 26), explaining the reasons behind his decision to set up a new political party. “I believe the processes of good governance have gone astray,” said Dr Tan, the secretary-general of the new Progress Singapore Party (PSP), at a press conference held at Swissotel Merchant Court on Friday. “I worry because I see the foundations of good governance eroding. Specifically, there is an erosion of transparency, independence and accountability.
“Yet these are the three foundations for creating trust between the Government and the people ... This means a robust system of checks and balances. This is what the people of Singapore want and this is what they should have - so that we can continue to hold our heads high and be proud of our system of Government.”
Tan Cheng Bock says that Lee Kuan Yew invited him to join the PAP. Ouch! He omits to say that I put his name up to LKY. Surely I deserve some credit — or rather, blame — for who he has become now?
“For Country, For People”. He has conveniently left out “For Me”!
Tan Cheng Bock was my classmate in Raffles Institution. I have known him close for over 60 years. It saddens me to see how he has “lost his way”. He is like Don Quixote tilting at windmills. --- gct
ESM Goh says Tan Cheng Bock has “lost his way”; blames himself for who Tan has now become
In a startling Facebook admission today, Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong wrote that Dr Tan Cheng Bock has “lost his way”.
At the public launch of the Progress Singapore Party on Saturday (August 3), Dr Tan briefly mentioned how the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew had invited him to join the People’s Action Party (PAP) years ago. However, ESM Goh griped, “Ouch! He omits to say that I put his name up to LKY”.
The Emeritus Senior Minister continued, rather harshly, “Surely I deserve some credit — or rather, blame — for who he has become now?” ““For Country, For People”. He has conveniently left out “For Me”!” ESM Goh remarked.
ESM Goh on Tan Cheng Bock: I deserve some credit or blame for who he has become
Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong shared his thoughts about Tan Cheng Bock’s recent speech on how the late Lee Kuan Yew persuaded him to join the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP).
Said Goh in a Facebook post on Aug. 4:
“Tan Cheng Bock says that Lee Kuan Yew invited him to join the PAP. Ouch! He omits to say that I put his name up to LKY. Surely I deserve some credit — or rather, blame — for who he has become now? “For Country, For People”. He has conveniently left out “For Me”!”
Official Launch of Progress Singapore Party My Speech Dear Singaporeans, The Progress Singapore Party was officially launched yesterday (3 Aug 2019). I attach a copy of my speech and hope you will take the time to read it. https://psp.org.sg/take-courage-and-lets-work-together-dr-tan-cheng-bocks Thank you always, for your kindness and support. read more Dr Tan Cheng Bock’s Speech for Press Conference 26 July 2019
Ladies and Gentlemen of the press, we have invited you here today to mark the inauguration of the Progress Singapore Party:
It has taken a while to get here and yet – we are only at the beginning.
Making the decision to set up a new political party in Singapore was not easy. In my many walkabouts, I spoke to many different Singaporeans.
They expressed a desire to have a credible alternative to the current ruling party. They feel that the current system is imbalanced.
Many are concerned that a government with an overwhelming majority in Parliament is going to fail to take in different perspectives, different ideas and just push through their policies without due consideration of sentiments from the people and the longer-term consequences.
I’m not a young man anymore, I am 79 years old this year. After the last Presidential Election, I thought to retire from politics and rest.
Furthermore, I’ve already served in Parliament for 26 years as a Member of Parliament. I have spent a great deal of my life in public office.
But as I sat back and watched what has been going on in Parliament, and in our political system – I am concerned.
I believe the processes of good governance have gone astray. I worry because I see the foundations of good governance eroding. Specifically, there is an erosion of transparency, independence and accountability. Yet these are the three foundations for creating trust between the government and the people.
Tan Cheng Bock secretary general of the newly formed Progress Singapore Party no longer believes in the ethos that drives the dominant PAP of today. PAP is no longer the party that it once was. Decay, political or otherwise, has set in and like a good doctor, Dr Tan thinks a surgical strike is what it takes to keep the ruling party in check.
"There have been many lapses, including loss of transparency, independence and accountability in recent years. We do not know how Ho Ching and the spouses of ministers have come about to hold key appointments. We need to know what is the criteria for appointment of key positions,”
“The ruling party has gone astray. It has failed to take in different perspectives and this may lead to negative consequences in the long term,” stressed Dr Tan. Dr Tan said the ground sentiments are sour and it reflects the current mood of the people. He said that the time is ripe to bring in a sea-change in the political landscape. read more Lee Hsien Yang: Today’s PAP is no longer the PAP of my father. It has lost its way
Mr Lee Hsien Yang (LHY), son of late founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and brother to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, expressed his support for the newly formed Progress Singapore Party headed by former PAP MP, Dr Tan Cheng Bock. In a Facebook post on Sunday evening, Lee backed Dr Tan’s party and echoed his sentiments that the ruling party has “lost its way”. “I wholeheartedly support the principles and values of the Progress Singapore Party. Today’s PAP is no longer the PAP of my father. It has lost its way.” read more
I wholeheartedly support the principles and values of the Progress Singapore Party. Today’s PAP is no longer the PAP of my father. It has lost its way. read more ‘PAP has lost its way’: Estranged brother of Singapore’s PM Lee Hsien Loong backs new opposition party
Lee Hsien Yang, the brother of Singapore’s prime minister Lee Hsien Loong. Photo: Agence France-Presse
Lee Hsien Yang, the estranged brother of Singapore’s prime minister has backed a new opposition party, the latest incident in a bitter feud in the city state’s first family. The Progress Singapore Party (PSP) was formed by Tan Cheng Bock, a former stalwart of the ruling party, to contest elections due by 2021. Tan has been seen in recent months with the prime minister’s younger sibling, Lee Hsien Yang, local media reported, sparking talk of an alliance. On Sunday, Lee wrote on Facebook: “I wholeheartedly support the principles and values of the Progress Singapore Party. Today’s PAP is no longer the PAP of my father. It has lost its way.” read more
Lee Hsien Yang says he ‘wholeheartedly’ supports principles, values of new Progress Singapore Party
The younger brother of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday (Jul 28) said he “wholeheartedly” supports the principles and values of the new Progress Singapore Party (PSP). In a Facebook post, Lee Hsien Yang added that the People’s Action Party (PAP) had “lost its way”. “I wholeheartedly support the principles and values of the Progress Singapore Party,” wrote Mr Lee. “Today’s PAP is no longer the PAP of my father. It has lost its way,” he said, referring to Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. read more Lee Hsien Yang declares support for Tan Cheng Bock’s party, says PAP has ‘lost its way’
Mr Lee Hsien Yang on Sunday (July 28) said on Facebook that he supports “the principles and values” of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP) led by Dr Tan Cheng Bock — two days after Dr Tan was asked at the party's inaugural press conference if Mr Lee could potentially contest the next General Election (GE) under its banner. On Friday, Dr Tan said he would be prepared to take Mr Lee, whom he described as a good friend, provided that Mr Lee’s “philosophy is the same as mine, and he does not allow his personal agenda to come into my PSP”. In his brief remarks on Facebook, Mr Lee did not comment on Dr Tan's invitation but echoed the former People’s Action Party (PAP) Member of Parliament’s criticism of the ruling party. “Today’s PAP is no longer the PAP of my father. It has lost its way,” said Mr Lee, who is the brother of Prime Minister and PAP secretary-general Lee Hsien Loong. read more I 'wholeheartedly' support the Progress Singapore Party: Lee Hsien Yang
Lee Hsien Yang, the youngest child of Singapore’s late first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, has given the fledgling Progress Singapore Party (PSP) his full backing. In a post on his Facebook page on Sunday evening (28 July), the 62-year-old said, “I wholeheartedly support the principles and values of the Progress Singapore Party.” Echoing PSP chief Tan Cheng Bock’s claim that the foundations of good governance in the People’s Action Party (PAP) have been eroded, he added, “Today’s PAP is no longer the PAP of my father. It has lost its way.” read more Singapore PM's brother backs new opposition party
The estranged brother of the Singaporean prime minister has backed a new opposition party, the latest incident in a bitter feud in the city-state’s first family. The Progress Singapore Party (PSP) was formed by Tan Cheng Bock, a former stalwart of the ruling party, to contest elections due by 2021. Tan has been seen in recent months with the premier’s sibling, Lee Hsien Yang, local media reported, sparking talk of an alliance. On Sunday Lee posted on Facebook: “I wholeheartedly support the principles and values of the Progress Singapore Party.” read more Lee Hsien Yang voices full-throated support for Progress Singapore Party, says PAP “has lost its way”
Ending months of speculation as to whether or not Lee Hsien Yang, the second son of Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and younger brother of current Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, would openly support the opposition to the party of his father, the People’s Action Party (PAP), Lee Hsien Yang has released full-throated and unequivocal support for Progress Singapore Party (PSP). This newly-registered party was founded by Dr Tan Cheng Bock, a former PAP MP, as well as several other former PAP members. Lee Hsien Yang wrote in his Facebook account in the early evening hours of Sunday, July 26,
“I WHOLEHEARTEDLY SUPPORT THE PRINCIPLES AND VALUES OF THE PROGRESS SINGAPORE PARTY. TODAY’S PAP IS NO LONGER THE PAP OF MY FATHER. IT HAS LOST ITS WAY.”
read more Singapore PM's brother backs opposition party in election twist
Lee Hsien Yang, son of former leader Lee Kuan Yew, delivers his eulogy during the funeral service at the University Cultural Centre at the National University of Singapore The Singapore prime minister's estranged brother has thrown his support behind a newly-formed opposition party in an intriguing twist ahead of elections expected to be held as soon as this year. In Facebook comments made late Sunday, Lee Hsien Yang said the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) - led by his brother Lee Hsien Loong and founded by his father Lee Kuan Yew - had "lost its way". His comments come amid a bitter feud with his brother over what to do with their late father's house, and an election which some analysts say could be months away and must be held by early 2021 at the latest. read more PSP: Let Lee Hsien Yang stand in Tanjong Pagar
Just one week before he launches his Progress Singapore Party on 3 Aug, Dr Adrian Tan Cheng Bock held a press conference on 26 July where he offered some preliminary comments on why he is re-entering politics at the age of 79. Even as voters note his reasons, they would naturally ask themselves what exactly can the former MP for Ayer Rajah and nearly-elected President do to strengthen or shake up the local political system. Everything can be reduced to three expectations coming out of his press conference. The first is, not impossible, but tough – Dr Tan is entering the fray to help persuade voters to put enough Opposition MPs in Parliament to deny the ruling People’s Action Party a two-third majority power to change the Constitution without support from other parties. We have 89 elected MPs in the present Parliament. To gain more than one-third of the seats, the Opposition has to win around 30 seats. How would the Opposition do that? I give one plausible scenario, by no means the only one. Of course, others will come up with other possibilities, including regarding the National Solidarity Party and the Singapore First Party as strong contenders. read more Tan Cheng Bock and the Lee Hsien Yang factor
In what is likely to be his last shot at active politics, former presidential candidate Tan Cheng Bock went for the jugular. Aiming his gun at Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, the 79-year-old retired doctor known for his cautious, considerate and considered style of politics said at a press conference to launch his Progress Singapore Party (PSP) last Friday (26 July), “As you all know, Temasek is part of our reserves. We want to know how that selection process was made…There must be many of you who were wondering why, for example, the wife of our Prime Minister has been appointed to be the CEO of Temasek.” It was that rare occasion when he tackled the man rather than the ball. In the process, the good old doctor drew a decisive political marker by kicking the ball into the court of PM Lee and his wife, Ho Ching, and putting the disquiet about her controversial appointment right back onto the political stage. read more
Good governance eroding, says Tan Cheng Bock
Asked to elaborate on his criticisms of the Government, he cited three issues: Appointment of ministers' spouses to top roles; the changes to the Elected Presidency in 2016 to ensure minority representation, which led to the 2017 Presidential Election being reserved for Malay candidates; and the 2017 parliamentary debate on the fate of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew's house at 38 Oxley Road. He said the appointment of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's wife, Ms Ho Ching, as chief executive of Temasek had left many "wondering why", alluding to a lack of transparency. "As you all know, Temasek is part of our reserves. We want to know how that selection process was made," he added. Soon after Ms Ho became executive director in 2002, then Temasek chairman S. Dhanabalan said she was appointed on merit and not family connections. read more PSP wants to be a ‘credible alternative’ to PAP, but no regime change expected in next election: Tan Cheng Bock
When asked to elaborate on what he meant by the erosion of good governance in Singapore, he said that the Government has not been very transparent about how it appoints individuals, especially those related to political office holders, to important positions. As an example, he cited the appointment of Ms Ho Ching — the wife of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong — as chief executive of the sovereign wealth fund Temasek Holdings. “We are not questioning the credibility of these people who are there. But we are worried… because if your process is not transparent, there isn’t much accountability.” read more PAP leaders rebut Tan Cheng Bock’s comments, saying next GE will show which party has ‘better ideas’
The People’s Action Party (PAP) "fundamentally disagrees" with opposition leader Dr Tan Cheng Bock's comments that the ruling party has lost its way, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat said on Saturday (July 27), adding that the next General Election (GE) will be a test for all parties to prove which has "better ideas and ability to deliver results". Mr Heng was speaking to the media on the sidelines of a joint ministerial walkabout in Bedok South, part of East Coast Group Representation Constituency (GRC), with Trade and Industry Minister Chan Chun Sing and former Cabinet Minister Lim Swee Say, who is a Member of Parliament for the GRC. Echoing Mr Heng’s comments, Mr Chan said that the PAP is not distracted by other political parties as its sights are fixed on working hard to meet Singaporeans’ needs and ensure the country stands out among its competitors. related: PAP's leadership approach must be anchored on trust, unity and constructive politics: Heng read more PAP takes governance seriously, DPM Heng Swee Keat says as he rebuts Tan Cheng Bock
The People's Action Party takes governance and governing Singapore very seriously and has always worked hard to improve the lives of Singaporeans, with a track record to show, said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat on Saturday (July 27) as he rejected Dr Tan Cheng Bock's assertion that the ruling party has lost its way. DPM Heng said that the ministers have been working closely together as a team to tackle the concrete issues and major challenges facing Singapore, such as creating jobs for people as the economy restructures, and taking care of an ageing population. Referring to remarks by Dr Tan, who said the ruling party had lost its way and eroded the foundations of good governance, DPM Heng said: "We fundamentally disagree with Dr Tan. But of course he's entitled to his opinions just as all Singaporeans are entitled to opinions." read more Tan Cheng Bock rebuts DPM Heng, cries as he speaks of political conviction
Tan Cheng Bock rebuts DPM Heng, cries as he speaks of political conviction
Progress Singapore Party (PSP) chief Tan Cheng Bock came out guns blazing against Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Heng Swee Keat on Saturday (3 August), calling his understanding of transparency “deeply flawed”. Speaking at a public event at Swissotel Merchant Court to showcase the fledgling party, Dr Tan was responding to Heng’s remarks last month that the parliamentary debate on the long-running Oxley Road saga demonstrated the government’s transparency in key matters of governance. Addressing a packed ballroom of more than 500 people, the 79-year-old noted of Heng, “His idea of transparency is to have it debated in Parliament, surrounded by an overwhelming majority of his own men, with no right of reply from the other parties (Lee Hsien Yang and Lee Wei Ling, siblings of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong).” He added to applause, “It shows that his very understanding of transparency is deeply flawed.” related: Job security takes centre stage as former presidential hopeful Tan Cheng Bock launches new opposition party Presidential Election, Oxley Road saga are key issues that show 'drastic change' in the PAP: Tan Cheng Bock read more Tan Cheng Bock’s PSP calls for lowering of voting age, prioritising citizens for jobs
HITTING BACK AT DPM HENG
At Saturday’s launch, Dr Tan also hit back at Mr Heng, the Deputy Prime Minister, for describing his remarks at a recent press conference as contradictory. In a press conference last Friday, Dr Tan cited the PAP’s decision to debate a dispute between Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his siblings over their Oxley Road home in Parliament as an example of a lack of transparency. Responding a day later, Mr Heng — the PAP’s first assistant secretary-general — said Dr Tan’s remarks were contradictory. That Mr Lee was prepared to debate the issue in the House demonstrated transparency, he said. Wading into the matter again on Saturday, Dr Tan said Mr Heng’s understanding of transparency was “deeply flawed” and this was very troubling. “His idea of transparency is to have it debated in Parliament, surrounded by an overwhelming majority of his own men, with no right of reply from the other parties,” he said. read more Singapore PM Lee faces fight with new party backed by his brother
Lee Hsien Yang also described Tan as "the leader Singapore deserves"
A new party supported by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's estranged brother has officially formed in Singapore on Friday, in an attempt to shake up the city-state's politics after five decades of People's Action Party rule. The Progress Singapore Party, led by political veteran and former presidential candidate Tan Cheng Bock, will contest the next general election which must be called by early 2021. "I worry because I see the foundations of good governance eroding," Tan told reporters at a news conference held to announce the launch of the party. "Specifically, there is an erosion of transparency, independence and accountability." Tan apparently has the backing of Lee Hsien Yang, the premier's younger brother. In January, when Tan announced his intention to establish a party, the younger Lee posted on Facebook: "I have known Cheng Bock for many years and he has consistently put the interests of the people first. We are fortunate that he has stepped forward to serve Singapore." read more Singapore Opposition Says ‘Fake News’ Law May Be Used as Muzzle
The leader of a new opposition party in Singapore is worried the government may use a recently passed law aimed at blocking fake news to muzzle the group ahead of general elections expected by early 2021. Speaking at press conference for the incorporation of his new Progress Singapore Party, Tan Cheng Bock, a former member of parliament for the People’s Action Party, said he was “very concerned” the government would use the law -- which has been criticized for being too sweeping -- to suppress content that advocates dissenting views. “I worry it might be used during this general election and we might have our websites all closed down, then we would be in trouble,” Tan said, adding if such content were removed during the election cycle, he would have no recourse until after it was done. “I cannot even defend myself.” read more Erosion of good governance the reason he started new political party, says Tan Cheng Bock
Former People's Action Party MP Tan Cheng Bock outlined why he had decided to start the Progress Singapore Party to fight against his previous party at a press conference on July 26, 2019.ST PHOTO: ONG WEE JIN Singapore's process of good governance has gone astray with the erosion of transparency, independence and accountability, said former People's Action Party MP Tan Cheng Bock on Friday (July 26) as he outlined why he had decided to start the Progress Singapore Party (PSP) to fight against his previous party. At a press conference ahead of his party's official launch next Saturday (Aug 3), he told a room full of reporters: "After the last presidential election, I thought I should retire from politics and rest. I've already served in Parliament for 26 years as an MP. I've spent a great deal of my life in public office. "But as I sat back and watched what has been going on in Parliament and in our political system, I am concerned. I believe the processes of good governance have gone astray. I worry because I see the foundations of good governance eroding. read more Will Cheng Bock’s appeal to the Merdeka generation work?
“I didn’t change; the PAP changed.”
Later, he referred to the FamiLEE fight over the fate of the late Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew’s Oxley Road House. Parliament, he said, shouldn’t be used as a platform to air family disputes, referring to the Parliamentary session in July 2017 held for PM Lee Hsien Loong to answer questions of abuse of power, accusations levelled by his two siblings. Another example he gave: the constitutional changes to the office of the elected presidency to include multi-racial representation which, when it was first conceived, was a position based on merit. He probably had this in mind when he spoke about the ball always being passed to the courts to make decisions which should be within Parliament’s ambit; he had unsuccessfully challenged the G’s decision to date the timing of the elected presidency in such a manner as to require a Malay president. So is Singapore’s newest political party the last throw of the dice by a 79 year old with an axe to grind against former party comrades? He would have joined the Workers’ Party or the Singapore Democratic Party if so, he said in answer to a question about being labelled a PAP “traitor”. read more Tan Cheng Bock on Progress Singapore Party's plans
Progress Singapore Party Secretary-General Tan Cheng Bock said on Friday (Jul 26) at a press conference that he would reveal a "broad picture" of his party's plans at its launch on Saturday, Aug 3. When asked about specifics, Dr Tan said he would not reveal all as "that is a strategy". read more Progress Singapore Party's Tan Cheng Bock on how he thinks the PAP has changed
In a press conference held on Friday (Jul 26), Progress Singapore Party's Tan Cheng Bock, an ex-People's Action Party (PAP) MP, explained why he thinks the PAP has changed. read more Lee Hsien Yang is "always free" to join Progress Singapore Party: Tan Cheng Bock
Progress Singapore Party Secretary-General Tan Cheng Bock responded to questions about his party's candidates on Friday (Jul 26) at a press conference. He added that the brother of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is "free" to join PSP if he wants. read more PSP would welcome Lee Hsien Yang as long as he sticks to party's terms: Tan Cheng Bock
The Progress Singapore Party (PSP) would welcome Mr Lee Hsien Yang, should the brother of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong decide to join its ranks, its Secretary General Tan Cheng Bock said on Friday (Jul 26). But, Mr Tan added, Mr Lee would have to “adhere” to the party’s terms. “Lee Hsien Yang and I, we’re good friends,” said Mr Tan at a press conference held at Swissotel Merchant Court, where he was outlining the reasons for setting up his party. read more Current governance going “astray” from “transparency, independence, and accountability” a catalyst behind setting up PSP: Tan Cheng Bock
Watching “the processes of good governance” in Singapore going “astray” was the catalyst behind the establishment of Progress Singapore Party (PSP), said veteran politician and ex-People’s Action Party (PAP) cadre Dr Tan Cheng Bock on Fri (26 Jul). Seen together with other members of PSP’s first Central Executive Committee, Dr Tan told reporters at the Swissotel Merchant Court today that such a phenomenon runs contrary to “the three foundations for creating trust between the government and the people”, namely “transparency, independence, and accountability”. He also revealed that the “many different Singaporeans” he had spoken to during his multiple walkabouts have “expressed a desire to have a credible alternative to the current ruling party”, as they “feel that the current system is imbalanced”. read more Presidential Election, Oxley Road saga are key issues that show 'drastic change' in the PAP: Tan Cheng Bock
Former presidential candidate Tan Cheng Bock addresses reporters at the launch of the Progress Singapore Party on Friday, 26 July 2019. PHOTO: Dhany Osman/Yahoo News Singapore The constitutional amendments that reserved the Presidential Election for a minority candidate and the government’s handling of the Oxley Road saga are the key issues that show the People’s Action Party (PAP) has lost its way, said former presidential candidate Tan Cheng Bock at the launch of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP) on Friday (26 July). Alluding to the special Parliamentary session in July 2017 that was called to address accusations by Lee Hsien Yang and his sister Lee Wei Ling against their older brother Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Dr Tan noted that Parliament is meant to be a place that sets laws for the country and constitutional amendments. “But when you use Parliament as a place where you debate your family issues, to me, that is not correct,” said the 79-year-old PSP’s secretary general of the two-day debate that concluded that PM Lee had not abused his power, as alleged by the younger Lees. read more Tan Cheng Bock: The foundations of good governance in S’pore have eroded
“I believe the processes of good governance have gone astray”
These were the strong words by former People’s Action Party (PAP) MP and 2011 Presidential runner-up Tan Cheng Bock at a press conference, held on July 26, marking the inauguration of his new party, the Progress Singapore Party (PSP). Elaborating on his stance, Tan said there had been an erosion of transparency, independence and accountability — the foundations that created trust between the government and the people. He added that Singapore is in need of a good political system that requires a strong system of checks and balances. read more Dr Tan Cheng Bock: “I don’t want to be Prime Minister. I want to help Singaporeans”
The Progress Singapore Party (PSP) Chief Dr Tan Cheng Bock announced the official launch of his party to the media at a press conference on July 26. In answering a question about whether his name was tied to the party, Dr Tan said, “I don’t want to be Prime minister. I want to help Singaporeans to come together”. He added, “I have a very short time frame and I have to do it quickly”. related: Tan Cheng Bock reveals what kind of politician he thinks Lee Hsien Yang will be read more Tan Cheng Bock talks about Lee Hsien Yang, election strategy and fake news laws
At a press conference announcing the launch of the Progress Singapore Party, party chief Tan Cheng Bock was asked for his views on, among other things, the effect of the proposed fake news laws on the next General Election (GE) and whether the economic uncertainty could affect the way Singaporeans vote. He also responded to questions on his election strategy, including whether Mr Lee Hsien Yang — who has been seen publicly with Dr Tan on several occasions — could join his party. Here is his take on the various issues:
FAKE NEWS LAWS
HOW ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY COULD AFFECT VOTING
ELECTION STRATEGY AND LEE HSIEN YANG
read more Singapore opposition party fears use of fake news law in election The leader of a new Singapore opposition party said today he was concerned that an anti-fake news law, which rights groups fear could stifle free speech, may be used in upcoming elections. The city-state, which has been ruled by the People's Action Party (PAP) since independence over half a century ago, passed the law in May. Singapore is due to hold its next national ballot by early 2021, although analysts say it could come as soon as this year. The PAP has never seen its vote share drop below 60 per cent and currently holds all but six of 89 elected seats in parliament. “I am concerned about this law. Worried that it'd be used during this general election,” Tan Cheng Bock, a former PAP lawmaker and presidential candidate, said at the launch of his new Progress Singapore Party. “We might have our website portals down and then we will be in trouble,” he said. read more New Singapore opposition party opens door to PM’s brother
A former stalwart of Singapore’s ruling party Friday opened the door to the prime minister’s estranged brother joining his new opposition group, amid a bitter feud in the city-state’s first family. Tan Cheng Bock has formed the Progress Singapore Party (PSP) to contest elections due by 2021 and has been seen in recent months with the premier’s sibling, Lee Hsien Yang, sparking talk of an alliance. Business executive Lee Hsien Yang and his sister have been embroiled in an acrimonious feud with their elder brother, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, over the fate of a century-old family bungalow.
read more Brad Bowyer joins Tan Cheng Bock’s Progress Singapore Party
Brad Bowyer, former member of People’s Voices (PV), took to his Facebook on Monday (15 July) to announce that he has joined Dr Tan Cheng Bock’s Progress Singapore Party (PSP). “It is time Singapore stopped regressing and started PROGRESSING again. I am proud to be part of this movement,” he wrote.
Mr Bowyer initially served as Lim Tean’s Shadow Minister for National Development at PV, but abruptly left the party on March 24 just days after the announcement of his position. read more
Trolls and bots Singapore’s Ministry of Law did not immediately respond to questions. The government has said the measure is designed to equip Singaporeans with facts so they can engage in public discourse and not to suppress information. “Free speech should not be affected by this bill,” Law Minister K. Shanmugam said in parliament in May. “We are talking here about falsehoods, we are talking about bots, we are talking about trolls, we are talking about fake accounts, and so on.” Under the proposed law, government ministers would be able to order a correction to be carried alongside a false or misleading claim, and material not in the public interest to be taken down. If someone disagreed, they could take their case to the courts. read more Lee Hsien Yang vouchers "Cheng Bock is the leader Singapore deserves
Lee Hsien Yang described Tan as "the leader Singapore deserves"
In a message of congratulations to Dr. Tan Cheng Bock, who announced on Friday, January 19, that he is returning to the political sphere with the Progress Singapore Party, Lee Hsien Yang called Dr. Tan “the leader Singapore deserves.” This latest salvo seems particularly pointed, given that Lee is the younger brother of Singapore’s current Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong. His post reads:
“Congratulations to Tan Cheng Bock and the Progress Singapore Party. I have known Cheng Bock for many years and he has consistently put the interests of the people first. We are fortunate that he has stepped forward to serve Singapore.
I only recently learned that Cheng Bock had his first clinic at Ama Keng at the far end of Lim Chu Kang Road, a remote and poor area. I didn’t know it at the time, but this was very close to where I used to serve as a young armour officer at Sungei Gedong.
Today, Cheng Bock will groom future Parliamentarians who will serve our country and people before party or self. This is good for the future of Singapore. Cheng Bock is the leader Singapore deserves.”
read more “Fair, balanced and objective” Straits Times strangely silent about Lee Hsien Yang’s criticism of People’s Action Party
Yesterday (28 July), the Prime Minister’s younger brother Lee Hsien Yang has voiced his support for the newly forms Progress Singapore Party (PSP) headed by former People’s Action Party MP Dr Tan Cheng Bock. Mr Lee’s support expressed in a Facebook post also criticised the ruling party as having ‘lost its way’. Surprisingly, one of Singapore’s mainstream media outlets, Straits Times, seems to have forgone reporting this particular piece of news. While Channel NewsAsia (CNA) and TODAY did report on Mr Lee’s support for PSP and criticism of his brother’s ruling party, it appears Straits Times has decided not to cover it. That’s strange considering any comment by Mr Lee, as brother of PM, would be of interest to the rest of the country. We had reported earlier in July that there seems to be some sort of media blackout in relation to Mr Lee Hsien Yang which is surprising given he is a member of Singapore’s most prominent family – brother to the Prime Minister and son of Singapore’s founder. Every little move by any of the Lee’s tend to be reported widely on mainstream media but it appears that the spotlight over Lee Hsien Yang is dimming rather drastically. read more Singaporeans can no longer accept out-of-touch rulers who call for people to fight each other while themselves are insulated from the effects of their poor, outdated policies
Singapore and Singaporeans are trapped in a flawed and failing system that is enriching a few at the expense of the many while dividing them, putting them in competition with each other and blaming them if they don’t get ahead in a loaded system as they slowly sink in to poverty and hardship. This is not just a local issue, it is also a global one, with the self-serving Neo Liberal economic model that has become the story and religion of the central bankers and elites around the world at the heart of it. A system that the current People’s Action Party (PAP) has fully embraced and is endeavouring to defend even while it is being rejected and thrown off almost everywhere else. While they owned all the methods of information this narrative could be sold to the people and while the negative effects were not widely felt that narrative was accepted with little question. Now with the advent of social media, the challenges of income inequality and a disrupted and changing economic and geopolitical model causing stress, fear and dislocation that narrative is being seen through for the flawed system it is. read more Tan Cheng Bock “humbled” by Singaporeans’ enthusiasm as tickets to PSP launch party are fully taken up
Veteran politician and former presidential candidate Tan Cheng Bock today (19 Jul) took to Facebook to express gratitude for the “warm and enthusiastic response” from Singaporeans as he announced that all tickets to Progress Singapore Party (PSP)’s launch on Sat (3 Aug) have been taken up in “a few short hours”. Dr Tan, who is also the founder of PSP and an ex-People’s Action Party (PAP) cadre, also apologised to those who had “missed the opportunity” to snap up tickets to the event, and added that there “will be more opportunities for engagement” with him and PSP in the future. The launch will comprise two sessions, namely a morning one from 9am to 12pm and an evening one from 1.30pm to 4.30pm as a means to “accommodate more people”, with each session having a maximum capacity of 500 people. read more Dr Tan Cheng Bock Page Liked · July 19
UPDATE: 19 July 2019 3:25pm - ALL TICKETS HAVE BEEN GIVEN OUT
In a few short hours, all tickets to the launch were taken up. Dear Singaporeans, thank you for this encouraging response. My team and I are humbled by your warm and enthusiastic response. If you had wanted to be here and missed the opportunity to get a ticket, I do apologise. There will be more opportunities for engagement and I look forward to meeting you then. Thank you once again. read more Veteran journalist says Dr Tan Cheng Bock’s words ring of sincerity unlike many other politicians
"From most people, I would consider such phrases as typical of politicians trying to win votes. From Dr Tan, however, I confess to hearing a ring of sincerity," said Bertha Henson commenting on Dr Tan's statement that he was re-entering politics for the good of the Singapore people Veteran journalist Bertha Henson has noted that Dr Tan Cheng Bock – a former People’s Action Party (PAP) parliamentarian who has formed his own opposition party, the Progress Singapore Party (PSP) – is “like a dog who refuses to let go of his bone.” Ms Henson is a heavyweight editor who spent 26 years at Singapore Press Holdings (SPH), mainly working for SPH’s flagship English publication, The Straits Times. She now serves as part-time lecturer at the Communications and New Media Department at the National University of Singapore. In an opinion piece published by Yahoo Singapore, Ms Henson shared her thoughts about the PSP press conference that took place last Friday (26 July). Having attended the event, the journalist noted that the meeting was different from the press conferences other opposition parties have organised in the past. read more Doctor, PAP MP and presidential candidate: 5 things about Tan Cheng Bock
Dr Tan Cheng Bock announced on Friday (Jan 18) that he had taken the first step to forming his new Progress Singapore Party by applying to register it. Many will remember that he lost narrowly to Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam in the 2011 presidential elections. He was also a long-serving community doctor and active People's Action Party (PAP) MP. Here are some other facts about the 78-year-old who is making a return to politics:
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
A VILLAGE DOCTOR, AND MORE
PEOPLE'S ACTION PARTY
RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT - TWICE
KEEPING ACTIVE, MEETING PEOPLE
read more There’s no nepotism in Temasek and GIC: DPM Heng Swee Keat tells Swiss newspaper
Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat was interviewed by Swiss newspaper, Neue Zürcher Zeitung (NZZ), last Fri (17 May)
During the interview, Heng who is also the finance minister, was asked many pointed questions by the Swiss newspaper. He was asked about the one-party regime in Singapore, despite Singapore having elections.
“Would not the time be ripe for more democracy and more political competition?” NZZ asked.
Heng maintained that Singapore has free and fair elections. He said numerous parties participated in the last election and in 2011 five Members of Parliament from the People’s Action Party lost their seats.
