The Online Citizen

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Talent survey unveils workforce trends: Malaysians seek greater career growth opportunities and upskilling support

36% of Malaysian employees are considering leaving their jobs for better growth opportunities and feel under-supported in upskilling and re-skilling efforts,” reveals a recent Randstad survey.

Business confidence among Japan’s big manufacturers improves

Japanese business confidence improves for the first time in seven quarters, driven by recovery in the auto sector and service industry.

Taiwan to conduct missile live-firing test

Taiwan prepares for missile test amid rising tensions with China, which views the island as its territory.

HDB announces increased Build-To-Order flat supply and moderated resale price index in 2Q 2023

Singapore’s Housing Development Board plans to increase Build-To-Order flat supply in 2023, while the Q2 2023 Resale Price Index shows moderated growth in resale prices.

Private residential property index decreased by 0.4% in 2nd Quarter 2023, URA flash estimate reports

The Urban Redevelopment Authority reports a 0.4% decline in private residential property prices in Q2 2023. Despite this, sales transaction volume increased by 16%, buoyed by increased unit launches.

US Treasury Secretary to visit China, raising need to ‘responsibly manage’ ties

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s visit to Beijing aims to manage the US-China relationship, address global challenges, and build communication channels.

Public questions arise over the Ridout Road saga involving two Singaporean ministers

In response to TOC’s request, an array of public questions concerning the rental of two state properties on Ridout Road by Ministers K Shanmugam and Vivian Balakrishnan has been compiled. These inquiries delve into topics like rental costs, renovations, environmental impact, and ethical considerations.

Peoples Voice chief Lim Tean voices concerns over historic tree felling at 26 and 31 Ridout Road

Peoples Voice Chief, Lim Tean, criticizes ministers K Shanmugam and Vivian Balakrishnan for extensive historic tree felling at their residences, questioning government’s ‘go green’ messaging. “If a person does not like trees or cannot tolerate the thought that there might be snakes or mosquitoes in the vicinity of his house, he has no business living in a B&W (Black & White Bungalow),” wrote Mr Lim.

Public policy veteran highlights potential conflict of interest in Ridout Road rental controversy

Amid the escalating discussion surrounding the rental of two colonial bungalows on Ridout Road, public policy expert Gan Swee Leong has brought attention to a potential conflict of interest, given the unique reporting relationship between the Singapore Land Authority, the government’s landlord, and the Ministry of Law.

Senior Counsel Harpreet Singh Nehal’s commentary on alleged violations of Ministerial Code of Conduct

In a critical commentary published by Singaporean independent outlet, JOM, Senior Counsel Harpreet Singh voiced concern over potential violations of Singapore’s Ministerial Code of Conduct, with regard to property leases by two ministers. Mr Singh underlined that perceived independence, robustness, and comprehensive evaluation of the Code are pivotal for the review process’s credibility and validity. His keen insights pose critical questions about potential conflict of interest situations, emphasizing that such situations must not be disregarded in reviews, despite the absence of explicit conflicts.