Singapore Police Force confirms death of police officer who penned a suicide note alleging workplace bullying and discrimination

Singapore is in mourning following the tragic death of Sgt Uvaraja S/0 Gopal, a dedicated officer of the Singapore Police Force (SPF). Sgt Uvaraja, 36, was found unconscious at Block 393 Yishun Avenue 6 on 21st July 2023 and later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. He was transported unconscious to the hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. His pre-death Facebook post revealing an alleged toxic workplace culture, bullying, and discrimination. Sgt Gopal detailed instances of professional and racial prejudice, hindrance in career progression, and illegal activities within his department. The SPF is currently investigating these serious allegations

Questions raised over POFMA Directive to ‘Political Sophistry’: Hazel Poa and Ravi Philemon weigh in

Progress Singapore Party (PSP)’s Hazel Poa and Red Dot United’s Ravi Philemon express concerns about the recent POFMA correction order issued to ‘Political Sophistry’, questioning the lack of initial full disclosure about Minister Iswaran’s arrest and the balance between CPIB operational judgment and political leaders’ discretion.

Singapore authorities clamp down on The Online Citizen Asia: Declares its online platforms as declared online locations under POFMA

Singapore’s Minister for Communications and Information declares The Online Citizen Asia’s (TOC) online platforms as Declared Online Locations under the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act, warning visitors about TOC’s history of propagating falsehoods. This unprecedented declaration follows a series of POFMA correction directions issued by the Government amidst discussions surrounding scandals involving members of the People’s Action Party and the growing public distrust of the ruling party. The declaration’s validity will last two years, continuing until 21 July 2025.

Tech titans promise watermarks to expose AI creations

OpenAI and other AI companies commit to safer technology with watermarks on AI-generated images. White House supports responsible AI development amid concerns of fraud and misinformation.

One dead, three injured in Seoul stabbing rampage: police

One killed, three wounded in stabbing rampage near Seoul subway station. Suspect in custody; motive under investigation. Rare incident alarms South Korea, known for low crime rate.

Marcos says Philippines is ‘done talking’ with ICC

President Ferdinand Marcos announced that the Philippines will no longer cooperate with the International Criminal Court’s probe into the drug war, asserting that the alleged crimes should be handled domestically. The ICC resumed its inquiry despite the country’s withdrawal in 2019. Thousands have died in the anti-narcotics campaign under both Duterte and Marcos’ administrations.

Top rice supplier India bans some exports

India, the world’s largest rice exporter, bans non-basmati white rice exports to ensure domestic availability and tackle rising prices amid global food crises, potentially impacting rice-dependent nations.

‘Victory day’: Cambodia heir leads final rally ahead of one-sided election

Cambodian leader Hun Sen’s son and chosen successor, Hun Manet, held a final rally ahead of the one-sided elections. Critics condemn the lack of credible opposition, ensuring a majority win for the ruling party. Supporters back Hun Manet’s leadership, but analysts doubt significant changes under his rule.

Thai reformist party to back rival after PM vote defeat

Thailand’s reformist party, Move Forward Party (MFP), will support a rival candidate from Pheu Thai for prime minister after MFP’s leader was blocked by the military and pro-royalist establishment. MFP’s focus is on restoring civilian government and democracy.

July likely to be warmest month on record: NASA scientist

July 2023 is set to become the hottest month in centuries, with unprecedented heatwaves worldwide and record-breaking sea surface temperatures, largely attributed to greenhouse gas emissions, warns NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt.