30/09/2020
29/09/2020
Tips for Avoiding Food Poisoning Gallery
Always Wash Your Hands
Food poisoning can be painful, exhausting, and honestly disgusting. The worst part about food poisoning is that once you get it, there’s not much you can do. For hours or days or however long it takes for the offending morsel to leave your system, you’re out of commission — sipping electrolytes on your couch with a bucket in hand.
“Food poisoning” is a blanket term for any form of illness that results from eating expired or contaminated food. Food can become contaminated with bacteria such as E. coli, viruses such as hepatitis, and even some forms of parasites. Symptoms vary, but common experiences include fever, aches, pains, vomiting, and frequent trips to the bathroom.
Some extreme cases of food poisoning can result in a hospital visit or even death — but these cases often involve other interfering factors, such as an already poor state of health or effects of dehydration. If you do get food poisoning, it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Other tactics for surviving the onslaught of illness include eating simple, unseasoned staple foods such as bread and rice and avoiding substances like dairy, caffeine, and alcohol. You should also take care to eat slowly, so you can gauge your stomach’s reaction to the food before it’s too late.
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28/09/2020
Air-Purifying Plants That Are Great For Your Home
If you find yourself tossing and turning all night, you might want to consider placing some flora and fauna in your home and bedroom. Aside from serving as the perfect accent piece to beautify any living space, plants can also help to relief eye strain.
These plants don’t just look good, they do good too, doubling as natural air purifiers, improving the air quality by absorbing and filtering out toxic agents from our indoor air. A research done by NASA found that houseplants were able to provide space stations with purer and cleaner air.
In addition to improving air quality, having plants in your home can reduce stress levels which in turn helps you to sleep better.
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27/09/2020
Feeling stressed and anxious?
This may not always be bad, research finds
Stress and anxiety aren’t always bad, a recent presentation by the American Psychological Association has found. Despite the fact both can reach unhealthy levels at times, they have been revealed to often play a helpful, not harmful, role in our lives.
According to Lisa Damour, PhD, a private-practice psychologist, stress not only results from bad events (for instance, firing someone) but can also be a result of something good (onboarding a new staff). Thus, she shares, stress has become a norm in our daily lives and, having moderate levels of stress can indeed improve one’s resilience when faced with challenges. Similarly, while anxiety has often gotten a bad reputation for being ‘harmful’, it can be used positively if viewed as helpful or protective. For instance, a feeling of anxiousness could alert someone of a potential threat in time for them to overcome it.
That said, while both stress and anxiety could be looked at with positive lenses, Damour emphasised the need for anyone suffering from either issue to take the necessary measures to address them early.
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Stress and anxiety aren’t always bad, a recent presentation by the American Psychological Association has found. Despite the fact both can reach unhealthy levels at times, they have been revealed to often play a helpful, not harmful, role in our lives.
According to Lisa Damour, PhD, a private-practice psychologist, stress not only results from bad events (for instance, firing someone) but can also be a result of something good (onboarding a new staff). Thus, she shares, stress has become a norm in our daily lives and, having moderate levels of stress can indeed improve one’s resilience when faced with challenges. Similarly, while anxiety has often gotten a bad reputation for being ‘harmful’, it can be used positively if viewed as helpful or protective. For instance, a feeling of anxiousness could alert someone of a potential threat in time for them to overcome it.
That said, while both stress and anxiety could be looked at with positive lenses, Damour emphasised the need for anyone suffering from either issue to take the necessary measures to address them early.
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26/09/2020
One Thing You Should Always Have in Your Pantry
The importance of a well-stocked pantry cannot be overstated. Without it, you'll find yourself searching for common baking substitutions, like baking powder substitutes or heavy cream substitutes, or making unnecessary last-minute trips to the grocery store.
The right kitchen basics will make it much easier for you to pull out your favorite recipes (or try something new!) and put together a meal at any time of the day, even if you don't have a lot of fresh produce or meats or poultry on hand. You especially want to focus on ingredients with a long shelf life that can be shelf-stable for a few weeks or months (or, in some cases, even years), until you need to add them to something you're making.
Some popular pantry staples include items like basic spices and seasonings (think dry herbs or sea salt), olive oil, dry or canned beans, bags of rice, and canned tomatoes. But if you want to expand your list to include more options and flavor, take advice from the pros. Here, we asked chefs to share the one thing you should always have in your pantry.
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25/09/2020
6 Tips To Quit Smoking
Did you know that you can feel the benefits of quitting smoking almost immediately? Within 20 minutes your heart rate and blood pressure drops to normal levels. And within 48 hours you can smell and taste better!
Your health begins to improve the moment you quit smoking. Start your 28-day journey to becoming smoke-free. Not only will your health improve, you’ll be helping your loved ones and others around you embrace healthier lifestyles too.
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24/09/2020
The Recipe for Healthy Ageing
What’s on My Healthy Plate:
- Fill half of your plate with fruit and vegetables
- Fill a quarter of your plate with wholegrains
- Fill a quarter of your plate with meat and others
- Choose water
- Use healthier oils
- Be active
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23/09/2020
ADHD in Children: Symptoms, Evaluations & Treatments
Attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders, affecting between 5 and 11 percent of American children. ADHD in children may present through symptoms including inattentiveness, impulsivity, hyperactivity, fidgeting, excessive talking, trouble waiting turn, and difficulty following direction.
What Are Common Symptoms:
- Your child is a wiggle worm. She can’t sit still and fidgets constantly. Does this mean she has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD)?
- Your child forgets to hand in his homework and typically writes down only half his assignments. Are these working memory glitches typical symptoms of ADHD in children?
- Your student disrupts the classroom by blurting out answers, veering off topic, or getting up from his seat daily. Should he be evaluated for ADHD symptoms?
- Or are these just typical childhood and adolescent behaviors that your kid with outgrow with time?
- Only a qualified medical professional can evaluate and diagnose symptoms of ADHD in children. However, it’s critical for parents and educators to know the warning signs because early detection, ADHD treatment, and school accommodations can make a world of difference for a child with ADHD.
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22/09/2020
Autumn equinox 2020 秋分 Qiūfēn
Autumnal Equinox – Fall Equinox
Equinoxes are opposite on either side of the equator, so the autumnal (fall) equinox in the Northern Hemisphere is the spring (vernal) equinox in the Southern Hemisphere and vice versa.
On the two equinoxes every year the Sun shines directly on the Equator and the length of day and night is nearly equal – but not exactly. The September equinox marks the moment the Sun crosses the celestial equator – the imaginary line in the sky above the Earth’s equator – from north to south and vice versa in March.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the fall equinox marks the first day of fall (autumn) in what we call astronomical seasons. There's also another, more common definition of when the seasons start, namely meteorological definitions, which are based on average temperatures rather that astronomical events.
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Sun halo spotted over eastern Singapore
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Equinoxes are opposite on either side of the equator, so the autumnal (fall) equinox in the Northern Hemisphere is the spring (vernal) equinox in the Southern Hemisphere and vice versa.
On the two equinoxes every year the Sun shines directly on the Equator and the length of day and night is nearly equal – but not exactly. The September equinox marks the moment the Sun crosses the celestial equator – the imaginary line in the sky above the Earth’s equator – from north to south and vice versa in March.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the fall equinox marks the first day of fall (autumn) in what we call astronomical seasons. There's also another, more common definition of when the seasons start, namely meteorological definitions, which are based on average temperatures rather that astronomical events.
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Sun halo spotted over eastern Singapore
The sun halo as seen from Simei at around 12.05pm on Sept 22,2020.ST PHOTO: BENJAMIN SEETOR
Many in eastern Singapore who looked skywards at close to noon on Tuesday (Sept 22) were treated to the sight of a large halo that ringed the sun.
The sun halo was spotted at locations such as Tampines, Simei and Ubi at around 12.05pm. Photos of the brilliant, multi-hued halo quickly made their way across messaging groups.
The optical phenomenon, which is not uncommon, typically occurs when there are thin clouds so high in the sky that they are made of ice crystals rather than water droplets.
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21/09/2020
International Day of Peace 2020
Each year on September 21, the UN invites all nations and people to honor a cessation of hostilities and commemorate the International Day of Peace through education and public awareness on issues related to peace. In the quest for peace, UPF chapters around the world organize commemorations of the International Day of Peace each year.
Programs may include:
- Reading United Nations and UPF statements about the International Day of Peace
- Observing one minute of silence
- A forum on the theme chosen by the United Nations
- Prayers and readings from various religions (English | French | Russian | Spanish), which can be read as representatives of various religions each light a candle or pour water into a common bowl
- Music, art, dances, and food from various cultures
- A march, rally, service project, or sports event
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20/09/2020
Singapore F1 2020 (Cancelled)
Update 30 Sep 2022: Formula One Singapore race renewed for another 7 yrs, from 2022 to 2028
Aerial view of the Marina Bay street circuit, where the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix will be held from 2022 to 2028. (PHOTO: Singapore GP Pte Ltd)
The Formula One Singapore Grand Prix will continue to be held in the city-state for another seven years.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Singapore GP (SGP) and F1 announced in a joint media release on Thursday (27 January) that Singapore will continue to host the motor-racing extravaganza as part of the FIA Formula One World Championship from 2022 to 2028.
This is the fourth contract renewal for Singapore, and the seven-year extension is the longest for the race to date. The stakeholders said in the media release that this will give Singapore a longer runway to capture pent-up demand as international travel recovers. It also allows STB, SGP and industry partners to develop new experiences to meet the evolving interests of locals and visitors.
This year’s Formula One (F1) Singapore Grand Prix has been cancelled, as restrictions on construction and business activities brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic have made it “impossible” to hold the annual race at the Marina Bay street circuit.
Race promoter Singapore GP said in a media release on Friday (12 June), following weeks of discussion with the F1 organisers, that it is unable to proceed with the race on 20 September due to the “prohibitions imposed on access and construction of the event venue”.
Apart from the closure of the event venue, other challenges include restrictions on mass gathering and worldwide travel, Singapore GP added. “These and other measures were understandably put in place by the Singapore government and the various authorities to prioritise safety and are targeted to manage the COVID-19 pandemic,” it said in the media release.
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2020 Singapore Grand Prix cancelled due to 'continuing nationwide restrictions' brought about by COVID-19 pandemic
This year's edition of the Singapore Grand Prix has been cancelled, it was announced on Friday (Jun 12).
This decision was made due to "continuing nationwide restrictions on construction and business activities" brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, said race promoters Singapore GP in a press release.
"While there are still more than three months to go before the scheduled race on Sep 20, we regret to announce that we will be unable to proceed with the race due to the prohibitions imposed on access and construction of the event venue required for a street race to be held in the city," it said.
related: Observer on economic impact of cancellation of F1 races
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Scrapping of race disappoints fans and those in related sectors
The local racing community, as well as related sectors, reacted with disappointment but also understanding, after news of the coronavirus-enforced cancellation of this year's Singapore Grand Prix broke yesterday.
Professional racer Yuey Tan, 38, who competed in the Porsche Carrera Cup at the 2014 and 2015 Singapore Grands Prix, was disappointed but said "racing is nothing more than entertainment".
He added: "I have two children and I love them very much. If this decision is going to keep people safer, I am really good with that and I can't wait for next year's race."
related:
Absence of S'pore GP this year a double whammy to economy, say analysts
F1 cancel night race 2020 over Covid-19 restrictions
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2020 Singapore Grand Prix and Night Race concerts cancelled
Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2020 has officially cancelled
Following a statement released by Formula 1 today (12/6), Singapore Grand Prix will no longer continue their 2020 season, alongside Grands Prix in Japan and Azerbaijan.
"As a result of the ongoing challenges presented by COVID-19, we and our promoters in Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japan have taken the decision to cancel their races for the 2020 season. These decisions have been taken due to the different challenges our promoters face in those countries," said Formula 1, in a press statement.
The long-awaited Singapore race is not scheduled to take place until 18 - 20 September, however, due to restrictions and prohibitions in the country because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, construction of the event venue has not been able to take place since May 2020 and thus, won't be ready in time for the race.
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F1 confirm 2020 Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japanese Grands Prix have been cancelled
Earlier this month the opening eight races of a revised calendar for the 2020 season were announced, beginning with the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring in the first weekend of July.
Since then F1 have continued to work hard to finalise the remaining calendar for the season, and are confident of having between 15-18 races by the time the season concludes in Abu Dhabi in mid-December. A new calendar is expected to be published before the season begins in Austria.
But today it was confirmed that the Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japanese races will not be part of the calendar for 2020.
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AZERBAIJAN, SINGAPORE AND JAPANESE GRANDS PRIX OFFICIALLY CANCELLED
After earlier reports on Thursday, the sport has now confirmed that the races have been called-off due in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As a result of the ongoing challenges presented by COVID-19, we and our promoters in Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japan have taken the decision to cancel their races for the 2020 season,” F1 said in a statement. “These decisions have been taken due to the different challenges our promoters face in those countries.
“In Singapore and Azerbaijan the long lead times required to construct street circuits made hosting the events during a period of uncertainty impossible and in Japan, ongoing travel restrictions also led to the decision not to proceed with the race.” “At the same time we have made significant progress with existing and new promoters on the revised calendar and have been particularly encouraged by the interest that has been shown by new venues in hosting a Formula 1 race during the 2020 season.”
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Formula 1 2020: Japan, Singapore and Azerbaijan races cancelled
Singapore is unable to build its street circuit in time for the 2020 race
The Japanese, Singapore and Azerbaijan Grands Prix have been cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Formula 1 has tried to find a way to hold the races in 2020 but announced on Friday that was not possible in the uncertain global situation.
The historic event at Suzuka is off as a result of Japan's ban on many international travellers. Races in Singapore and Baku cannot be held because the street circuits cannot be built in the current climate.
The cancellations mean F1 has lost a further three key grands prix to the Covid-19 crisis that has already claimed the season-opening race in Australia and the blue-riband Monaco event.
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Formula One facing worsening financial crisis with races in Azerbaijan, Singapore and Japan cancelled
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is normally F1’s highest payer CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Although the sport remains confident of reaching its minimum target of a 15-race world championship, with eight summer events in Europe already confirmed, the choice of autumn cancellations is proving a painful one. The street race in Baku, a fixture on the roster since 2016, is normally F1’s highest payer, agreeing to an annual hosting fee in excess of £40 million.
Similarly, Singapore, with its glittering night-time spectacle at Marina Bay, generates vast commercial revenue. The absence of Suzuka, arguably the drivers’ favourite track, will also be acutely felt, especially as it is likely to be replaced by a Russian double-header at the bland Sochi Autodrom.
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Marina Bay Street Circuit
- When was the track built? The Marina Bay Circuit arrived on the scene in 2008. A street track with the city's famous skyline as its spectacular backdrop, the initial circuit plan by Herman Tilke was refined by KBR Inc, while the event has quickly established itself as one of the standouts on the F1 calendar.
- When was its first Grand Prix? In 2008, Singapore had the honour of hosting the first night-time race in F1 history. The Grand Prix – the 15th round of that season – proved a huge hit with the teams and drivers, while Renault’s Fernando Alonso claimed a controversial victory.
- What’s the circuit like? The 5.063km Marina Bay Circuit is one of the most physically demanding on the calendar, its bumpy street surface coupled with humid conditions giving the drivers plenty to think about. With 23 corners, they are working the wheel a lot, too, around the high-speed lap – the physical stress causing them to lose as much as 3kg over the course of a race. The circuit also boasts some of the most unique features of any track on the F1 calendar, including Turn 18, which actually sees the drivers pass underneath a grandstand.
- Why go? If you want to see Singapore at its best, there’s no better time to do so than when Formula 1 arrives in the heart of this buzzing city. Get the lay of the land by taking a ride on the Singapore Flyer, a giant Ferris wheel overlooking the track’s permanent pits complex, then get stuck into Singapore’s incredible bar and restaurant scene. Cocktail fanatics should also make a pilgrimage to the famous Raffles Hotel – the proper home of the Singapore Sling (non-alcoholic versions are available!)
- Where is the best place to watch? Get yourself comfy in the grandstand located at Turn 1, which offers spectacular views as the cars accelerate into the first corner, before braking hard and whipping through Turns 2 and 3. You’ll get a great view of the start too – expect to see plenty of sparks fly as the drivers blast off the line.
19/09/2020
Teens with ADHD
Attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children
Parenting a teen, one with or without ADHD, is challenging. Life with your daughter seems rough right now. It’s rotten to feel like your daughter doesn’t like you and shuts you out. Her rejection can feel painful. At times, we need a suit of armor to weather the storms and periodic rejection.
It’s tough to stay grounded, patient, and steady when teens are provocative, disrespectful, or unkind. Teens are trying to figure out what it means to be separate yet connected to their parents. Those with ADHD brains and “now/not now” thinking have trouble with cause-and-effect learning.
Adolescents wrestle with two key questions: Who am I? and Where do I belong? With their delays in brain maturation, teen girls with ADHD are sometimes asking these questions into their mid-20s. What they want from adults is a chance to vent while you listen rather than offer solutions. This is tough for parents. You see your child making mistakes and want to make things better. You want to fix things.
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18/09/2020
10 Ways To Effectively Reduce Waste
Waste has a huge negative impact on the environment as there are a lot of harmful chemicals and greenhouse gases that are released from rubbish. Hence, it is imperative that we do our part to reduce waste and increase our recycling efforts.
As it was World Environment Day on June 5, this month we are shining the spotlight on sustainability.
In Singapore, the government has set targets of achieving a 70 per cent national recycling rate and a 30 per cent domestic recycling rate by 2030. Zero Waste SG, a local independent charity, aims to drive the zero waste movement in Singapore through education and advocacy, focusing on the areas of food waste, plastic disposables, household recycling and organisational waste.
Pek Hai Lin, manager of Zero Waste SG, shares her insights on how you can play a part:
- Avoid hoarding
- Tidy up with repurposed shoe boxes
- Go second-hand
- Invest in reusable bags
- Cut down on disposables
- Separate wet and dry waste
- Check recyclables
- Recycling tip
- Get rid of unwanted items responsibly
- Electronic waste
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17/09/2020
5 habits for better lifestyle and longer life
Lifestyle isn't about living in style, it's all about getting into the right environment for growth:
- Exercising is the key - Be it swimming, jogging, weight lifting, or playing sports, physical activities are important to keep oneself fit. If nothing bigger, you can by evening walks in a park with your partner.
- Healthy diet is important - One very important thing to do in order to live a healthy lifestyle is healthy diet. Include leafy green vegetables, legumes, wholegrains, lean red meat and seafood in your meal. These food items provide nutrients and contain magnesium, folate, zinc and essential fatty acids for better cognition.
- Take a break from routine - As traveling is said to be the perfect thing to do for relieving stress, we should always take a break once in a while from our life's rising clamour. Face the shining sun to feel happy, because it is said that adequate exposure to sunshine can help in maintaining good mood.
- Getting enough sleeping hours - Sleep hygiene techniques aim to improve sleep quality and help treat insomnia. Though some people are genetically wired towards being more of a morning or evening person, so it’s important not to force sleep.
- Quit smoking and drinking - Going by the facts, it is said that a little alcohol consumption may have beneficial effects on preventing depression. But contradictory to this, others say that light alcohol consumption does not provide any beneficial effects on brain function. So, managing problem-drinking or substance misuse is an obvious health recommendation.
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16/09/2020
Hidden Sugars and Diabetes
Sugars are a class of carbohydrate that provides energy for the body.
Do you have a sweet tooth and crave for sugary, sweet stuff? Foods laden with sugar are often tempting. Some sugars are found naturally in the foods you eat and drink (e.g. milk, honey, fruit and vegetables) while others are added during food preparation and processing (e.g. desserts and sweetened drinks).
Regardless of the type of sugar, your body breaks them down in the same way into glucose which enters your bloodstream and provides energy for your organs to function properly.
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15/09/2020
Plants are marvelous chemists
As the gardenia's DNA shows
Plants are some of nature's most extraordinary chemists. Unlike animals, they can't run from predators or pathogens. They can't uproot themselves to seek out a mate or spread their seeds.
So instead, they manufacture chemicals: toxins to kill bacteria. Bitter alkaloids to ward off herbivores. Sweet nectar and jewel-colored pigments to draw in pollinators or birds that can help disperse seeds. Chemicals, you could say, are one of a plant's ways of making love and war. But how did trees, shrubs and flowers obtain these capabilities?
In a new study, scientists explore this question through the evolution of the gardenia, Gardenia jasminoides, an evergreen shrub with white flowers that's planted as an ornamental in the tropics.
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In a new study, researchers report sequencing the species' genome
Plants are some of nature's most extraordinary chemists. Unlike animals, they can't run from predators or pathogens. They can't uproot themselves to seek out a mate or spread their seeds.
So instead, they manufacture chemicals: toxins to kill bacteria. Bitter alkaloids to ward off herbivores. Sweet nectar and jewel-colored pigments to draw in pollinators or birds that can help disperse seeds. Chemicals, you could say, are one of a plant's ways of making love and war. But how did trees, shrubs and flowers obtain these capabilities?
In a new study, scientists explore this question through the evolution of the gardenia, Gardenia jasminoides, an evergreen shrub with white flowers that's planted as an ornamental in the tropics.
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14/09/2020
Fighting fish synchronize their moves
When Muhammad Ali duked it out with Joe Frazier in the boxing ring, it’s unlikely anyone thought about what was happening to the genes inside their heads. But a new study in fighting fish has demonstrated that as the fish spar, genes in their brains begin to turn on and off in a coordinated way. It’s still unclear what those genes are doing or how they influence the skirmish, but similar changes may be happening in humans.
The work is “a really cool example of the way that social interactions can get under the skin,” says Alison Bell, a behavioral ecologist at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, who was not involved with the study.
The molecular basis of how animals, humans included, coordinate behaviors is a mystery. Whether it be mating or fighting, “animals need to be really good at this, but we don’t particularly know how they do it,” says Hans Hofmann, an evolutionary social neuroscientist at the University of Texas, Austin.
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13/09/2020
Some Practical And Genius Home Decor Hacks
Everyone Should Know About
No matter how big or small your living space is, making good use of that space to decorate beautifully can be nerve racking. More so, moving into a used living space may leave you more confused or eat deep into your pockets. However, there’s a way out for you so no worries. These home decor hacks are budget friendly, space friendly and landlord friendly.
If you have a piece of furniture, maybe a storage table, try using some upholstery nails to embellish it. This will certainly make your home look more expensive. This is one of the home decor hacks that are widely used. You can also use this to revive an old furniture you bought at a garage sale.
Fortunately, these upholstery nails come in silver, brass etc so lots of choices for you.
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No matter how big or small your living space is, making good use of that space to decorate beautifully can be nerve racking. More so, moving into a used living space may leave you more confused or eat deep into your pockets. However, there’s a way out for you so no worries. These home decor hacks are budget friendly, space friendly and landlord friendly.
If you have a piece of furniture, maybe a storage table, try using some upholstery nails to embellish it. This will certainly make your home look more expensive. This is one of the home decor hacks that are widely used. You can also use this to revive an old furniture you bought at a garage sale.
Fortunately, these upholstery nails come in silver, brass etc so lots of choices for you.
read more
12/09/2020
Auditor-General's Report 2019/2020
Reports of the Auditor-General
Report of the Auditor-General for the Financial Year 2019/20
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Statement by the Ministry of Finance on The Auditor-General's Report FY2019/2020
On behalf of Ministries and public agencies, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) would like to thank the Auditor-General and her officers for the FY2019/20 audit report and recommendations. The Government has accepted all the recommendations, and agencies are working on the necessary follow-up actions.
The Auditor-General has issued an unmodified audit opinion on the Government Financial Statements. This is an independent verification that the Government’s accounts are reliable and prepared in accordance with the law. Public funds have been properly accounted for.
The report highlights areas for improvement in IT controls, procurement and contract management, operations management and grant management. Continuing with its thematic audit of grants, AGO’s in-depth thematic audit for this report focused on business grant programmes. AGO noted that Workforce Singapore (WSG) and Enterprise Singapore (ESG) had put in place policies and procedures to manage the grant programmes. Nevertheless, there was room for improvement, such as in applying evaluation practices more consistently, improving checks to ensure disbursements are in line with guidelines, and strengthening the oversight of programme partners which administer the grant programmes on WSG and ESG’s behalf.
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Lapses in procurement, grants disbursements and IT systems in public agencies: Auditor-General's report
The Auditor-General’s Office (AGO) found issues with some public agencies’ IT systems, processes in procuring services and grant disbursement practices, according to its annual report released on Monday (Sep 7).
The report, which is an audit of government accounts for the financial year 2019/2020, covered all 16 government ministries and eight organs of state, one government fund, 13 statutory boards, four government-owned companies, three other accounts, and selected business grant programmes by Workforce Singapore (WSG) and Enterprise Singapore (ESG).
Ministries and agencies singled out in the AGO report for lapses include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Public Utilities Board (PUB), the National Library Board (NLB) and Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), among others:
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Poor oversight, inconsistent disbursement of grants, among litany of issues flagged by Auditor-General’s report
The Auditor-General has flagged multiple lapses in three out of 16 government ministries and eight out of 13 statutory boards it audited in its latest report. The report was made public on Monday (Sept 7) after it was tabled in Parliament last week.
The “significant observations” related to the lapses were highlighted by the Auditor-General’s Office (AGO) audit for the 2019 to 2020 financial year and they involved poor handling of business grants, contracts, tenders and operations, as well as weaknesses in IT controls. The three ministries named in the report were the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Accountant-General Department of the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and the Public Service Division of the Prime Minister’s Office. Among the statutory boards, the AGO also highlighted the National Library Board (NLB), the Public Utilities Board, the Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), Government Technology Agency (GovTech), Workforce Singapore, Enterprise Singapore, as well as Ngee Ann Polytechnic and Republic Polytechnic.
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Auditor-General flags lapses in procurement & contract management in ministries & statutory boards
The Auditor-General's Office (AGO) has released its report for the financial year of 2019/20.
The AGO is an independent office that audits all of Singapore’s government entities’ books to make sure they adhere to robust and proper financial practices.
For this financial year, it audited the following:
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Report of the Auditor-General for the Financial Year 2019/20
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Statement by the Ministry of Finance on The Auditor-General's Report FY2019/2020
On behalf of Ministries and public agencies, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) would like to thank the Auditor-General and her officers for the FY2019/20 audit report and recommendations. The Government has accepted all the recommendations, and agencies are working on the necessary follow-up actions.
The Auditor-General has issued an unmodified audit opinion on the Government Financial Statements. This is an independent verification that the Government’s accounts are reliable and prepared in accordance with the law. Public funds have been properly accounted for.
The report highlights areas for improvement in IT controls, procurement and contract management, operations management and grant management. Continuing with its thematic audit of grants, AGO’s in-depth thematic audit for this report focused on business grant programmes. AGO noted that Workforce Singapore (WSG) and Enterprise Singapore (ESG) had put in place policies and procedures to manage the grant programmes. Nevertheless, there was room for improvement, such as in applying evaluation practices more consistently, improving checks to ensure disbursements are in line with guidelines, and strengthening the oversight of programme partners which administer the grant programmes on WSG and ESG’s behalf.
read more
Lapses in procurement, grants disbursements and IT systems in public agencies: Auditor-General's report
The Auditor-General’s Office (AGO) found issues with some public agencies’ IT systems, processes in procuring services and grant disbursement practices, according to its annual report released on Monday (Sep 7).
The report, which is an audit of government accounts for the financial year 2019/2020, covered all 16 government ministries and eight organs of state, one government fund, 13 statutory boards, four government-owned companies, three other accounts, and selected business grant programmes by Workforce Singapore (WSG) and Enterprise Singapore (ESG).
Ministries and agencies singled out in the AGO report for lapses include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Public Utilities Board (PUB), the National Library Board (NLB) and Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), among others:
- PROBLEMS WITH IT CONTROLS
- LAPSES IN PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACT MANAGEMENT
- OPERATIONAL GAPS
- INCONSISTENCIES IN BUSINESS GRANT PROGRAMMES
- RESPONSES FROM GOVERNMENT BODIES
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Poor oversight, inconsistent disbursement of grants, among litany of issues flagged by Auditor-General’s report
The Auditor-General has flagged multiple lapses in three out of 16 government ministries and eight out of 13 statutory boards it audited in its latest report. The report was made public on Monday (Sept 7) after it was tabled in Parliament last week.
The “significant observations” related to the lapses were highlighted by the Auditor-General’s Office (AGO) audit for the 2019 to 2020 financial year and they involved poor handling of business grants, contracts, tenders and operations, as well as weaknesses in IT controls. The three ministries named in the report were the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Accountant-General Department of the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and the Public Service Division of the Prime Minister’s Office. Among the statutory boards, the AGO also highlighted the National Library Board (NLB), the Public Utilities Board, the Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), Government Technology Agency (GovTech), Workforce Singapore, Enterprise Singapore, as well as Ngee Ann Polytechnic and Republic Polytechnic.
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Auditor-General flags lapses in procurement & contract management in ministries & statutory boards
The Auditor-General's Office (AGO) has released its report for the financial year of 2019/20.
The AGO is an independent office that audits all of Singapore’s government entities’ books to make sure they adhere to robust and proper financial practices.
For this financial year, it audited the following:
- The government financial statements (incorporating the accounts of all 16 government ministries and eight organs of the state),
- One government fund,
- 13 statutory boards,
- Four government-owned companies,
- Three other accounts.
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related:
Auditor-General's Report 2020/2021
Auditor-General's Report 2019/2020
Auditor-General's Report 2018/2019
Auditor-General's Report 2017/2018
Auditor-General's Report 2016/2017
Auditor-General's Report 2015/2016
Auditor-General's Report 2014/2015
Auditor-General's Report 2013/2014
'Pervasive' lapses in WP town council
Lapses in Governance And Compliance
Auditor-General's Report 2019/2020
Auditor-General's Report 2018/2019
Auditor-General's Report 2017/2018
Auditor-General's Report 2016/2017
Auditor-General's Report 2015/2016
Auditor-General's Report 2014/2015
Auditor-General's Report 2013/2014
'Pervasive' lapses in WP town council
Lapses in Governance And Compliance
11/09/2020
Vespa launches the new V946 Christian Dior scooter
Dior and Vespa have teamed up to create a new version of the Vespa 946 with a matching line of accessories
Dior has announced a partnership with Vespa for the design of a luxury scooter and a line of matching accessories. The branded limited edition, which will go on sale in the spring 2021, will initially be available from Dior boutiques in several countries, and thereafter in selected Piaggio group Motoplex stores.
Two renowned brands both created in 1946, Dior and Vespa have teamed up to create the Christian Dior Vespa 946, a new version of the scooter first launched in Milan in 2012, which will combine Italian knowhow with Parisian chic. Dior creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri was responsible for this latest version of the iconic Italian motorcycle.
And that is not all. The couture scooter will launch with a whole collection of accessories, most notably a helmet and a top case designed to be attached to the luggage rack. Both of these creations will be decorated with the emblematic Dior Oblique motif, which will also feature on the scooter's seat.
read more
10/09/2020
Things You Can Do to Lose Weight
It's incredibly easy and will seamlessly fit into your everyday routine
Whatever your weight loss goal is, getting started is probably the most daunting task. If you're feeling hesitant about making that first step, it's probably because the first step you have in mind is overwhelming and too disruptive. (Think: cutting out all carbs immediately on day one.)
Instead, set yourself up for success by kicking your weight loss journey off with an attainable goal. The number one thing you can do every day to lose weight is to step on a scale. This tip may be one of the most effective, simplest weight loss tips you can follow.
"That's it?" you might be thinking. Yes, that's it. The simple act of stepping on a scale is something anyone can follow and that will have a big impact long term.
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09/09/2020
Acquittal of maid warrants further investigation
Update 22 Jun 2021: High Court dismisses Parti Liyani's bid against AGC for $10,000 compensation
Ms Parti Liyani and her lawyer Anil Balchandani at the Supreme Court on Oct 27 last year.PHOTO: ST FILE
The High Court judge who acquitted former domestic worker Parti Liyani last year of stealing from her employer has dismissed her application seeking compensation of $10,000 from the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC).
Justice Chan Seng Onn said on Monday (June 21) that Ms Parti has not succeeded in proving on a balance of probability that her prosecution was “frivolous or vexatious”.
The judge said in a 102-page judgment: “The decision to bring the charges against Parti was based on sufficient evidence such that there is a case fit to bring before the court.
Former domestic worker Parti Liyani seeks disciplinary action against prosecutors who handled her theft trial
The former domestic worker of businessman Liew Mun Leong has taken legal action in a bid to begin disciplinary proceedings against two public prosecutors who handled her case.
Ms Parti Liyani’s lawyer, Mr Anil Balchandani from Red Lion Circle, attended a pre-trial conference in the High Court on Wednesday (Sept 23).
The Indonesian worker’s case was thrust into the spotlight three weeks ago when a High Court judge overturned her conviction for stealing more than S$34,000 worth of items from Mr Liew’s household.
Liew Mun Leong steps down as chairman of CAG, Surbana Jurong after ex-maid acquitted of stealing
Mr Liew Mun Leong's former Indonesian maid Parti Liyani has been cleared of all criminal charges.PHOTOS: ST FILE
Mr Liew Mun Leong has stepped down as chairman of Changi Airport Group and Surbana Jurong, days after the High Court acquitted his former maid of theft and raised questions about his motivations in lodging a police report against her.
He has also resigned from his positions as senior international business adviser at Singapore investment company Temasek and as a board member of Temasek Foundation.
In a statement on Thursday (Sept 10), Mr Liew, 74, said he had decided to bring forward his retirement from these roles.
read more
Shanmugam cautions against prejudging acquitted ex-maid case
On Tuesday (Sept 8), Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam said that Singapore's justice system is impartial to all and fair, and cautioned against prejudging what part of the process had gone wrong.
He was commenting on the ongoing reviews by the different agencies looking into the case of former domestic worker Parti Liyani, who was acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family.
Meanwhile, a survey by the Singapore Commercial Credit Bureau (SCCB) revealed that employment expectations among businesses in Singapore have taken a turn for the worse, with overall business sentiment remaining negative.
read more
PSP’s Tan Cheng Bock calls for independent review of lapses in acquitted maid’s case
Progress Singapore Party secretary-general Tan Cheng Bock on Sunday (Sept 13) called for an independent review into whether there were any “underlying systemic faults” in the case of foreign domestic worker Parti Liyani.
“Proper accountability demands that we find the root causes for these lapses. Not just whether mistakes were caused by individual human errors. Scapegoating or witch hunts will do us no good,” wrote Dr Tan in a Facebook post, weighing in on the case for the first time.
The solution has to go further than blaming or removing personnel in question, he added. “We must examine if there are underlying systemic faults — whether there are any failures in safety processes, protocols, checks and balances. If not, we risk repeating the same mistakes again,” said Dr Tan.
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CAG chairman Liew Mun Leong has contributed to S’pore, public should hear his side of the story: Temasek executive
Mr Liew Mun Leong (pictured), a senior international adviser at Temasek, was CEO of CapitaLand before becoming chairman of Changi Airport Group and Surbana Jurong
Changi Airport Group (CAG) chairman Liew Mun Leong has contributed to Singapore and its people, and the public should hear his side of the story regarding the case involving his former domestic worker and not be too quick to judge, a top executive of state investment firm Temasek Holdings said on Tuesday (Sept 8).
Mr Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara, chief executive officer of Temasek International, said during the firm’s year-in-review briefing: “There are many individuals who have contributed to both public service and for the private sector in Singapore for the benefit of Singapore and our population. Liew Mun Leong is one of those persons and his track record at CapitaLand, CAG and Surbana Jurong will attest to that.”
Mr Pillay was asked about a recent high-profile case involving Mr Liew’s family and their former domestic worker, Ms Parti Liyani.
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HO Ching 6 August
I remember Liew Mun Leong saying the mission of CapitaLand is to build people to build for people.
That was why he was chosen to be the founding CEO of CapitaLand.
read more
The Saga of Liew Mun Leong
It is not surprising that the saga of Changi Airport Group Chairman Liew Mun Leong has attracted such prominent attraction not only in Singapore but maybe outside. This is no doubt one of the most iniquitious injustices that could be imposed on a defenceless Indonesian maid who had given eight years of conscientious service to the Liew family.
The process of the police investigations and the District Court judgement for the alleged theft by this unfortunate victim were so full of unimaginables and unconventionals that they boggle the common mind of the people completely. It was by the grace of God (or Allah in this case) that the appeal was heard by such a courageus and perceptive High Court Judge as Justice Chan Seng Onn who minced no words in his highly critical judgement of the judicial proceedings of the district court and his unbridled contempt of the iniquitious conduct of Liew Mun Leong and his son Karl Liew in trumping up theft charges against the defenceless maid.
Justice Chan laid bare the inexcusable inadequacies of the police investigations under the direction of the Attorney-General Department and the unbelievable blunder of the District Judge in convicting the accused on the questionable evidence before her.
read more
Singapore to study judge’s findings after acquittal of Indonesian domestic worker
Singapore authorities will assess if further actions are needed after a judge acquitted Parti Liyani. Photo: Twitter
The findings of a Singapore High Court judge, who recently acquitted a foreign domestic worker accused of theft by her former employer Liew Mun Leong, raise questions which warrant further investigations, according to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC).
In a media statement on Sunday, the AGC said it will study the judgment of Justice Chan Seng Onn to assess whether there are any further actions that should be taken in light of Justice Chan’s comments about Parti Liyani’s case.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) also said in a statement that it is consulting the AGC to see whether it should further look into the matter. It had earlier issued a warning to Liew’s wife and an advisory to his son in May 2018, for making Parti work illegally at other premises, including the son’s home and office. The police said on Sunday that they noted the High Court’s judgment on the case, and that several observations about the investigation had been raised, which they are looking into.
related: Indonesian maid says she forgives Singapore’s Changi Airport Group boss Liew Mun Leong for accusing her of stealing
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Courts Drop Ex-Helper’s 5th & Final Charge, Now Her Name Is Cleared
A dramatic trial involving Parti Liyani, a former domestic worker under Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong, ended with her full acquittal on Tuesday (8 Sep).
The 46-year-old Indonesian was cleared of her 5th and last charge in the State Courts today. Previously the High Court had dropped 4 other charges, after she was initially found guilty. For the 5th charge, she was found with several items which she was accused of obtaining fraudulently, according to Channel NewsAsia.
Ms Parti was cleared of her 5th charge, for fraudulent possession of property. The Straits Times reports that she was found with a total of 18 items on Dec 2016 at the airport, which she allegedly couldn’t account for on her possession.
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Timeline: How a maid was acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman's family
Parti Liyani with her lawyer Anil Balchandani outside the High Court on Sep 4, 2020. She was acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family. (Photo: Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics)
An Indonesian maid was acquitted last Friday (Sep 4) of stealing from the family of Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong, nearly four years after she was fired by her former employer.
In March 2019, Ms Parti Liyani was convicted of four charges of stealing, before the convictions were overturned in the High Court by Justice Chan Seng Onn. In his judgment last Friday, Justice Chan laid out the reasons for Ms Parti's acquittal.
Here is a timeline of events related to the case:
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Acquittal of Liew Mun Leong's former maid prompts AGC to look further into case
Ms Parti, who worked for Mr Liew (above) and his family for nine years, was cleared by the High Court following an appeal against her conviction and sentence. BT FILE PHOTO
THE Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) is studying whether any further action is needed following the acquittal of Parti Liyani - the Indonesian maid whom corporate bigwig Liew Mun Leong and members of his family falsely accused of stealing items from their homes.
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Maid accused of theft at CAG chief's house, then acquitted: Judge notes serious risk of evidence contamination
Justice Chan Seng Onn said Mr Karl Liew's testimony against Ms Parti Liyani at trial was internally inconsistent.PHOTO: ST FILE, WONG KWAI CHOW
The bulk of the items that Ms Parti Liyani was accused of stealing allegedly belonged to Mr Karl Liew.
These included over 100 pieces of clothing, two wallets, bed linen, kitchen utensils, a damaged luxury watch and two iPhone 4 phones.
At the end of the trial, the district judge removed the wallets - a Gucci and a Braun Buffel - and some women's clothing from the charge as there was doubt over whether they were his.
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Accused of theft, then acquitted: Police report by CAG chief's family was to stop maid from complaining to MOM, says judge
Once Ms Parti Liyani made clear - upon being fired - her desire to complain to MOM, the Liew family "followed up with the police report to ensure her return would be prevented", said Justice Chan Seng Onn
For the nine years from 2007 that she worked for Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family, Indonesian Parti Liyani had a relatively harmonious relationship with its members.
They gave her generous red packets and raised her monthly salary from $300 to $600. However, from time to time, she clashed with her employer's son, Karl, over her household chores at the Chancery Lane family home.
Things got more heated when Mr Karl Liew moved out with his family in March 2016 to a house nearby.
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Agencies looking into issues judge raised in case of ex-maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chief
Miss Parti Liyani and her lawyer Anil Balchandani leaving the Supreme Court building on Sept 4, 2020.PHOTO: HUMANITARIAN ORGANISATION FOR MIGRATION ECONOMICS
The Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC), the police and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) are looking into the case of a former domestic worker acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family.
This comes after Justice Chan Seng Onn, in his 100-page judgment on the case last Friday, found the trial judge's conviction against her to be unsafe.
He cited the handling of the evidence by the police, the recording of the allegedly stolen items and the improper motive behind the allegations of some family members.
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CAG chairman's wife cautioned, son given advisory in 2018 after maid complained about illegal deployment: MOM
Parti Liyani with her lawyer Anil Balchandani and his intern Ajay Singh outside the High Court on Sep 4, 2020. She was acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family. (Photo: Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics)
The wife of Changi Airport Group (CAG) chairman Liew Mun Leong was issued a caution and his son issued an advisory by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in 2018 after their former maid Parti Liyani complained of being illegally deployed.
Ms Parti was acquitted on Friday (Sep 4) of stealing about S$34,000 worth of items from Mr Liew Mun Leong and his family, after she was sentenced to jail in March 2019 for four counts of theft.
Justice Chan Seng Onn overturned her convictions on Friday and said in his judgment that the Liew family had taken a "pre-emptive first step" to terminate her employment suddenly on Oct 28, 2016 and given her insufficient time to pack, in hope that she would not use the time to make a complaint to MOM.
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Acquitted Indonesian domestic worker receives donations of S$28,000 in less than a day
On Sept 4, 2020, the High Court acquitted Ms Parti Liyani (front row, third from right) of all four charges of theft that had been levelled against her
A fundraiser for an Indonesian domestic worker who was recently acquitted of theft has raised its target of S$28,000 less than a day after it was launched.
The money will help Ms Parti Liyani, who was accused by her former employer Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong of theft, set up a food business in Indonesia.
Non-governmental organisation (NGO) Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics (Home) set up the fundraiser. Its spokesperson said on Monday (Sept 7): “We are very encouraged by the many kind-hearted Singaporeans who are concerned for Parti Liyani and stepped forward to offer help.”
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Ho Ching lambasted by netizens for praising former CapitaLand’s chief executive Liew Mun Leong of “building people”, after the case of Parti Liyani
The CEO of Temasek Holdings, Ho Ching, has once again lambasted by netizens over her support towards the former chief executive of CapitaLand, Liew Mun Leong, who was involved in the convictions of his former Indonesian domestic worker, Parti Liyani.
In a Facebook post on 7 August, Madam Ho cited a quote from an American author Zig Ziglar and praised Mr Liew’s belief in “building people”.
“I remember Liew Mun Leong saying the mission of CapitaLand is to build people to build for people. That was why he was chosen to be the founding CEO of CapitaLand,” the Prime Minister’s wife wrote. Mr Liew had left CapitaLand in 2012 and is currently the Chairman of Changi Airport Group.
related: Liew Mun Leong who accused his domestic worker of theft, received Meritorious Service Medal from President back in 2011
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Accused of theft, then acquitted: Police report by CAG chief's family was to stop maid from complaining to MOM, says judge
Once Ms Parti Liyani made clear - upon being fired - her desire to complain to MOM, the Liew family "followed up with the police report to ensure her return would be prevented", said Justice Chan Seng Onn.
For the nine years from 2007 that she worked for Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family, Indonesian Parti Liyani had a relatively harmonious relationship with its members. They gave her generous red packets and raised her monthly salary from $300 to $600.
However, from time to time, she clashed with her employer's son, Karl, over her household chores at the Chancery Lane family home.
read more
Law firm says it ‘only played a very small part’ in surprise acquittal of Changi Airport chief’s ex-maid
Parti Liyani with her defense lawyer, Anil Balchandani, and the HOME team. Image: HOME: Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics/Facebook
The Singapore law firm gaining widespread recognition for helping a domestic helper win a case against her former employers is redirecting their success to the hard work of migrant worker activists.
The Red Lion Circle law firm and its lawyer Anil Balchandani had defended Indonesian domestic helper Parti Liyani, 46, from the state to the high court, after she was accused by former employer, Changi Airport chief Liew Mun Leong, of stealing S$34,000 worth of items.
“A lot has been said regarding counsel’s participation at the trial and at the appeal. Red Lion Circle wishes to state that counsel for Parti Liyani only played a very small part in her acquittal,” the firm said in a statement.
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LIEW MUN LEONG
Mr LIEW Mun Leong is the Chairman of Surbana Jurong Private Limited and also the Chairman of Changi Airport Group.
Mr Liew has spent 22 years in the public service developing Singapore’s Changi Airport, military airports and establishments. He was involved with the construction of Changi Airport Phase I and II from day one in 1975. He was also the CEO of two government statutory bodies, the Singapore Institute of Standards and Industrial Research (SISIR) and concurrently the National Science and Technology Board (NSTB), the forerunner of A*STAR. He was the Registrar of the Professional Engineers Board, granting engineers’ licenses to practise in Singapore and regulating engineering practices in Singapore. He has also served the Executive Board of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for which he was later elected and served as its President for one term.
In the private sector, he has another 24 years of experience leading 10 public listed companies in four countries. In 2000, he was appointed as the founding CEO of CapitaLand Limited, a public listed real estate company, which has become the largest real estate group (by market capitalization) in South East Asia, operating in over 20 countries with more than 12,000 staff. He is a Senior International Business Advisor appointed by Temasek to advise the Group on long term real estate investments in New York, London and Tokyo. Currently he also sits on the boards of Singapore Exchange, NUS Business School, Human Capital Leadership Institute, Chinese Development Assistance Council and the Singapore China Foundation. He also chairs Dymon Asia Real Estate Limited, a private equity fund investing in real estate in several key Asian cities and Temasek Foundation Nurtures CLG Ltd.
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Liew Mun Leong (Singapore Businessman)
Liew Mun Leong (born June 1946) is the chairman of Changi Airport Group (CAG) and Surbana Jurong Private Limited, an urban and infrastructure consulting firm. A decorated civil engineer and businessman who has had experience in the real estate and aviation industries, Liew Mun Leong was conferred the Meritorious Service Medal by the President of Singapore in 2011. He was also bestowed the rank of Knight (Chevalier) in the French National Order of the Legion of Honour (Ordre national de la Légion d'honneur) in recognition of his contributions to France’s economy
Liew Mun Leong is married to Ng Lai Peng. Together they have a son, Karl Liew and a daughter, Liew Cheng May.
Liew Mun Loong was a student of Queenstown Technical School. He then went to the University of Singapore where he graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1970. Liew Mun Leong has held various positions in Singapore’s public and private sectors. With professional beginnings in the 1970s as a civil engineer with the Ministry of Defence,[9] he then forayed into the private sector in the 1990s.
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Top coverage:
How a maid was acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman's family
More questions raised even as CAG chief's former maid acquitted of theft charges
Acquitted Indonesian domestic helper receives donations of S$28000 in less than a day
Over $28k raised for ex-maid cleared of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman
More than S$28500 raised for maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chairman
Singapore: acquittal of foreign helper warrants further investigation
Law firm says it 'only played a very small part' in surprise acquittal of Changi Airport chief's ex-maid
Judge's findings 'raise questions' after maid acquitted of stealing
CAG chairman's wife cautioned, son given advisory in 2018 after maid complained about illegal deployment: MOM
MOM had issued caution to CAG chair Liew Mun Leong's wife for illegal deployment of maid
Acquittal of Liew Mun Leong's former maid prompts AGC to look further into case
Police, MOM looking into case of ex-maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chief in light of judge's comments
Agencies looking into issues judge raised in case of ex-maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chief
Agencies looking into issues judge raised in acquitting maid of theft
AGC: Findings of High Court judge who acquitted maid of theft warrant further investigations
Judge's findings in Parti Liyani case involving CAG chairman warrant further investigations: AGC
AGC to study judgment acquitting CAG chief Liew Mun Leong's maid of theft; may take further action
Findings of High Court judge who acquitted maid of theft warrant further investigations: AGC
Judge's findings 'raise questions' that warrant further investigations after maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chairman's family: AGC
AGC says further action may be warranted in case where ex-maid was acquitted of stealing from CAG chief
Maid acquitted of stealing from Singapore Changi Airport Group chairman says she forgives him, but wants apology
Maid accused of theft at CAG chief's house, then acquitted: Judge notes serious risk of evidence contamination
Stained Gucci sunglasses, fake watches, frayed Prada bag: Why maid was acquitted of stealing from CAG chief
Accused of theft, then acquitted: Police report by CAG chief's family was to stop maid from complaining to MOM, says judge
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Mr Liew Mun Leong has stepped down as chairman of Changi Airport Group and Surbana Jurong, days after the High Court acquitted his former maid of theft and raised questions about his motivations in lodging a police report against her.
He has also resigned from his positions as senior international business adviser at Singapore investment company Temasek and as a board member of Temasek Foundation.
In a statement on Thursday (Sept 10), Mr Liew, 74, said he had decided to bring forward his retirement from these roles.
read more
Shanmugam cautions against prejudging acquitted ex-maid case
On Tuesday (Sept 8), Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam said that Singapore's justice system is impartial to all and fair, and cautioned against prejudging what part of the process had gone wrong.
He was commenting on the ongoing reviews by the different agencies looking into the case of former domestic worker Parti Liyani, who was acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family.
Meanwhile, a survey by the Singapore Commercial Credit Bureau (SCCB) revealed that employment expectations among businesses in Singapore have taken a turn for the worse, with overall business sentiment remaining negative.
read more
PSP’s Tan Cheng Bock calls for independent review of lapses in acquitted maid’s case
Ms Parti Liyani leaving the State Courts with her lawyer Anil Balchandani on Sept 8
Progress Singapore Party secretary-general Tan Cheng Bock on Sunday (Sept 13) called for an independent review into whether there were any “underlying systemic faults” in the case of foreign domestic worker Parti Liyani.
“Proper accountability demands that we find the root causes for these lapses. Not just whether mistakes were caused by individual human errors. Scapegoating or witch hunts will do us no good,” wrote Dr Tan in a Facebook post, weighing in on the case for the first time.
The solution has to go further than blaming or removing personnel in question, he added. “We must examine if there are underlying systemic faults — whether there are any failures in safety processes, protocols, checks and balances. If not, we risk repeating the same mistakes again,” said Dr Tan.
read more
CAG chairman Liew Mun Leong has contributed to S’pore, public should hear his side of the story: Temasek executive
Changi Airport Group (CAG) chairman Liew Mun Leong has contributed to Singapore and its people, and the public should hear his side of the story regarding the case involving his former domestic worker and not be too quick to judge, a top executive of state investment firm Temasek Holdings said on Tuesday (Sept 8).
Mr Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara, chief executive officer of Temasek International, said during the firm’s year-in-review briefing: “There are many individuals who have contributed to both public service and for the private sector in Singapore for the benefit of Singapore and our population. Liew Mun Leong is one of those persons and his track record at CapitaLand, CAG and Surbana Jurong will attest to that.”
Mr Pillay was asked about a recent high-profile case involving Mr Liew’s family and their former domestic worker, Ms Parti Liyani.
read more
HO Ching 6 August
I remember Liew Mun Leong saying the mission of CapitaLand is to build people to build for people.
That was why he was chosen to be the founding CEO of CapitaLand.
read more
The Saga of Liew Mun Leong
It is not surprising that the saga of Changi Airport Group Chairman Liew Mun Leong has attracted such prominent attraction not only in Singapore but maybe outside. This is no doubt one of the most iniquitious injustices that could be imposed on a defenceless Indonesian maid who had given eight years of conscientious service to the Liew family.
The process of the police investigations and the District Court judgement for the alleged theft by this unfortunate victim were so full of unimaginables and unconventionals that they boggle the common mind of the people completely. It was by the grace of God (or Allah in this case) that the appeal was heard by such a courageus and perceptive High Court Judge as Justice Chan Seng Onn who minced no words in his highly critical judgement of the judicial proceedings of the district court and his unbridled contempt of the iniquitious conduct of Liew Mun Leong and his son Karl Liew in trumping up theft charges against the defenceless maid.
Justice Chan laid bare the inexcusable inadequacies of the police investigations under the direction of the Attorney-General Department and the unbelievable blunder of the District Judge in convicting the accused on the questionable evidence before her.
read more
Singapore to study judge’s findings after acquittal of Indonesian domestic worker
The findings of a Singapore High Court judge, who recently acquitted a foreign domestic worker accused of theft by her former employer Liew Mun Leong, raise questions which warrant further investigations, according to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC).
In a media statement on Sunday, the AGC said it will study the judgment of Justice Chan Seng Onn to assess whether there are any further actions that should be taken in light of Justice Chan’s comments about Parti Liyani’s case.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) also said in a statement that it is consulting the AGC to see whether it should further look into the matter. It had earlier issued a warning to Liew’s wife and an advisory to his son in May 2018, for making Parti work illegally at other premises, including the son’s home and office. The police said on Sunday that they noted the High Court’s judgment on the case, and that several observations about the investigation had been raised, which they are looking into.
related: Indonesian maid says she forgives Singapore’s Changi Airport Group boss Liew Mun Leong for accusing her of stealing
read more
Courts Drop Ex-Helper’s 5th & Final Charge, Now Her Name Is Cleared
A dramatic trial involving Parti Liyani, a former domestic worker under Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong, ended with her full acquittal on Tuesday (8 Sep).
The 46-year-old Indonesian was cleared of her 5th and last charge in the State Courts today. Previously the High Court had dropped 4 other charges, after she was initially found guilty. For the 5th charge, she was found with several items which she was accused of obtaining fraudulently, according to Channel NewsAsia.
Ms Parti was cleared of her 5th charge, for fraudulent possession of property. The Straits Times reports that she was found with a total of 18 items on Dec 2016 at the airport, which she allegedly couldn’t account for on her possession.
read more
Timeline: How a maid was acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman's family
An Indonesian maid was acquitted last Friday (Sep 4) of stealing from the family of Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong, nearly four years after she was fired by her former employer.
In March 2019, Ms Parti Liyani was convicted of four charges of stealing, before the convictions were overturned in the High Court by Justice Chan Seng Onn. In his judgment last Friday, Justice Chan laid out the reasons for Ms Parti's acquittal.
Here is a timeline of events related to the case:
- MARCH 2007: MS PARTI STARTS WORK IN LIEW HOUSEHOLD
- OCT 28, 2016: MS PARTI’S EMPLOYMENT TERMINATED
- OCT 29 TO OCT 30, 2016: THE LIEWS FILE A POLICE REPORT
- DEC 2, 2016: MS PARTI ARRESTED
- DEC 3, 2016: POLICE VISIT THE LIEWS
- DEC 2016: MS PARTI QUESTIONED BY POLICE
- AUGUST 2017: MS PARTI CHARGED
- OCTOBER 2017: MS PARTI LODGES REPORT TO MOM
- APR 23, 2018: MS PARTI CLAIMS TRIAL
- AUGUST 2018: MR LIEW MUN LEONG TESTIFIES DURING TRIAL
- MAR 20, 2019: MS PARTI FOUND GUILTY
- SEP 4, 2020: MS PARTI ACQUITTED
- SEP 6, 2020: AGC, MOM, POLICE ISSUE STATEMENTS
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Acquittal of Liew Mun Leong's former maid prompts AGC to look further into case
THE Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) is studying whether any further action is needed following the acquittal of Parti Liyani - the Indonesian maid whom corporate bigwig Liew Mun Leong and members of his family falsely accused of stealing items from their homes.
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Maid accused of theft at CAG chief's house, then acquitted: Judge notes serious risk of evidence contamination
The bulk of the items that Ms Parti Liyani was accused of stealing allegedly belonged to Mr Karl Liew.
These included over 100 pieces of clothing, two wallets, bed linen, kitchen utensils, a damaged luxury watch and two iPhone 4 phones.
At the end of the trial, the district judge removed the wallets - a Gucci and a Braun Buffel - and some women's clothing from the charge as there was doubt over whether they were his.
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Accused of theft, then acquitted: Police report by CAG chief's family was to stop maid from complaining to MOM, says judge
For the nine years from 2007 that she worked for Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family, Indonesian Parti Liyani had a relatively harmonious relationship with its members.
They gave her generous red packets and raised her monthly salary from $300 to $600. However, from time to time, she clashed with her employer's son, Karl, over her household chores at the Chancery Lane family home.
Things got more heated when Mr Karl Liew moved out with his family in March 2016 to a house nearby.
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Agencies looking into issues judge raised in case of ex-maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chief
The Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC), the police and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) are looking into the case of a former domestic worker acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family.
This comes after Justice Chan Seng Onn, in his 100-page judgment on the case last Friday, found the trial judge's conviction against her to be unsafe.
He cited the handling of the evidence by the police, the recording of the allegedly stolen items and the improper motive behind the allegations of some family members.
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CAG chairman's wife cautioned, son given advisory in 2018 after maid complained about illegal deployment: MOM
The wife of Changi Airport Group (CAG) chairman Liew Mun Leong was issued a caution and his son issued an advisory by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in 2018 after their former maid Parti Liyani complained of being illegally deployed.
Ms Parti was acquitted on Friday (Sep 4) of stealing about S$34,000 worth of items from Mr Liew Mun Leong and his family, after she was sentenced to jail in March 2019 for four counts of theft.
Justice Chan Seng Onn overturned her convictions on Friday and said in his judgment that the Liew family had taken a "pre-emptive first step" to terminate her employment suddenly on Oct 28, 2016 and given her insufficient time to pack, in hope that she would not use the time to make a complaint to MOM.
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Acquitted Indonesian domestic worker receives donations of S$28,000 in less than a day
A fundraiser for an Indonesian domestic worker who was recently acquitted of theft has raised its target of S$28,000 less than a day after it was launched.
The money will help Ms Parti Liyani, who was accused by her former employer Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong of theft, set up a food business in Indonesia.
Non-governmental organisation (NGO) Humanitarian Organisation for Migration Economics (Home) set up the fundraiser. Its spokesperson said on Monday (Sept 7): “We are very encouraged by the many kind-hearted Singaporeans who are concerned for Parti Liyani and stepped forward to offer help.”
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Ho Ching lambasted by netizens for praising former CapitaLand’s chief executive Liew Mun Leong of “building people”, after the case of Parti Liyani
The CEO of Temasek Holdings, Ho Ching, has once again lambasted by netizens over her support towards the former chief executive of CapitaLand, Liew Mun Leong, who was involved in the convictions of his former Indonesian domestic worker, Parti Liyani.
In a Facebook post on 7 August, Madam Ho cited a quote from an American author Zig Ziglar and praised Mr Liew’s belief in “building people”.
“I remember Liew Mun Leong saying the mission of CapitaLand is to build people to build for people. That was why he was chosen to be the founding CEO of CapitaLand,” the Prime Minister’s wife wrote. Mr Liew had left CapitaLand in 2012 and is currently the Chairman of Changi Airport Group.
related: Liew Mun Leong who accused his domestic worker of theft, received Meritorious Service Medal from President back in 2011
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Accused of theft, then acquitted: Police report by CAG chief's family was to stop maid from complaining to MOM, says judge
Once Ms Parti Liyani made clear - upon being fired - her desire to complain to MOM, the Liew family "followed up with the police report to ensure her return would be prevented", said Justice Chan Seng Onn.
For the nine years from 2007 that she worked for Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong and his family, Indonesian Parti Liyani had a relatively harmonious relationship with its members. They gave her generous red packets and raised her monthly salary from $300 to $600.
However, from time to time, she clashed with her employer's son, Karl, over her household chores at the Chancery Lane family home.
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Law firm says it ‘only played a very small part’ in surprise acquittal of Changi Airport chief’s ex-maid
The Singapore law firm gaining widespread recognition for helping a domestic helper win a case against her former employers is redirecting their success to the hard work of migrant worker activists.
The Red Lion Circle law firm and its lawyer Anil Balchandani had defended Indonesian domestic helper Parti Liyani, 46, from the state to the high court, after she was accused by former employer, Changi Airport chief Liew Mun Leong, of stealing S$34,000 worth of items.
“A lot has been said regarding counsel’s participation at the trial and at the appeal. Red Lion Circle wishes to state that counsel for Parti Liyani only played a very small part in her acquittal,” the firm said in a statement.
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LIEW MUN LEONG
Mr LIEW Mun Leong is the Chairman of Surbana Jurong Private Limited and also the Chairman of Changi Airport Group.
Mr Liew has spent 22 years in the public service developing Singapore’s Changi Airport, military airports and establishments. He was involved with the construction of Changi Airport Phase I and II from day one in 1975. He was also the CEO of two government statutory bodies, the Singapore Institute of Standards and Industrial Research (SISIR) and concurrently the National Science and Technology Board (NSTB), the forerunner of A*STAR. He was the Registrar of the Professional Engineers Board, granting engineers’ licenses to practise in Singapore and regulating engineering practices in Singapore. He has also served the Executive Board of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for which he was later elected and served as its President for one term.
In the private sector, he has another 24 years of experience leading 10 public listed companies in four countries. In 2000, he was appointed as the founding CEO of CapitaLand Limited, a public listed real estate company, which has become the largest real estate group (by market capitalization) in South East Asia, operating in over 20 countries with more than 12,000 staff. He is a Senior International Business Advisor appointed by Temasek to advise the Group on long term real estate investments in New York, London and Tokyo. Currently he also sits on the boards of Singapore Exchange, NUS Business School, Human Capital Leadership Institute, Chinese Development Assistance Council and the Singapore China Foundation. He also chairs Dymon Asia Real Estate Limited, a private equity fund investing in real estate in several key Asian cities and Temasek Foundation Nurtures CLG Ltd.
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Liew Mun Leong (Singapore Businessman)
Liew Mun Leong (born June 1946) is the chairman of Changi Airport Group (CAG) and Surbana Jurong Private Limited, an urban and infrastructure consulting firm. A decorated civil engineer and businessman who has had experience in the real estate and aviation industries, Liew Mun Leong was conferred the Meritorious Service Medal by the President of Singapore in 2011. He was also bestowed the rank of Knight (Chevalier) in the French National Order of the Legion of Honour (Ordre national de la Légion d'honneur) in recognition of his contributions to France’s economy
Liew Mun Leong is married to Ng Lai Peng. Together they have a son, Karl Liew and a daughter, Liew Cheng May.
Liew Mun Loong was a student of Queenstown Technical School. He then went to the University of Singapore where he graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1970. Liew Mun Leong has held various positions in Singapore’s public and private sectors. With professional beginnings in the 1970s as a civil engineer with the Ministry of Defence,[9] he then forayed into the private sector in the 1990s.
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Top coverage:
How a maid was acquitted of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman's family
More questions raised even as CAG chief's former maid acquitted of theft charges
Acquitted Indonesian domestic helper receives donations of S$28000 in less than a day
Over $28k raised for ex-maid cleared of stealing from Changi Airport Group chairman
More than S$28500 raised for maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chairman
Singapore: acquittal of foreign helper warrants further investigation
Law firm says it 'only played a very small part' in surprise acquittal of Changi Airport chief's ex-maid
Judge's findings 'raise questions' after maid acquitted of stealing
CAG chairman's wife cautioned, son given advisory in 2018 after maid complained about illegal deployment: MOM
MOM had issued caution to CAG chair Liew Mun Leong's wife for illegal deployment of maid
Acquittal of Liew Mun Leong's former maid prompts AGC to look further into case
Police, MOM looking into case of ex-maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chief in light of judge's comments
Agencies looking into issues judge raised in case of ex-maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chief
Agencies looking into issues judge raised in acquitting maid of theft
AGC: Findings of High Court judge who acquitted maid of theft warrant further investigations
Judge's findings in Parti Liyani case involving CAG chairman warrant further investigations: AGC
AGC to study judgment acquitting CAG chief Liew Mun Leong's maid of theft; may take further action
Findings of High Court judge who acquitted maid of theft warrant further investigations: AGC
Judge's findings 'raise questions' that warrant further investigations after maid acquitted of stealing from CAG chairman's family: AGC
AGC says further action may be warranted in case where ex-maid was acquitted of stealing from CAG chief
Maid acquitted of stealing from Singapore Changi Airport Group chairman says she forgives him, but wants apology
Maid accused of theft at CAG chief's house, then acquitted: Judge notes serious risk of evidence contamination
Stained Gucci sunglasses, fake watches, frayed Prada bag: Why maid was acquitted of stealing from CAG chief
Accused of theft, then acquitted: Police report by CAG chief's family was to stop maid from complaining to MOM, says judge
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