EWL disruption enters day two as commuter woes continue; Workers eager for four-day work week but bosses not so much: Singapore live news

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A power fault on SMRTs East-West Line (EWL) stranded 850 passengers in Singapore on Wednesday (26 Sept), leading to frustration and confusion over transport alternatives. (Photos: SMRT/Facebook)
A power fault on SMRTs East-West Line (EWL) stranded 850 passengers in Singapore on Wednesday (26 Sept), leading to frustration and confusion over transport alternatives. (Photos: SMRT/Facebook)

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Hello to all our readers, Yahoo Singapore will be bringing you live news updates today.

As the East-West Line (EWL) train disruption stretches into its second day, commuters in Singapore face ongoing transport challenges. With services still suspended between Jurong East and Buona Vista due to a traction power fault, the situation remains fluid. The disruption began Wednesday (25 Sept) morning, stranding 850 passengers after a power fault affected multiple stations. SMRT has introduced shuttle bus services to assist affected commuters, though frustrations regarding crowd management persist. The LTA has confirmed ongoing repairs and safety checks on affected trains. With this incident following several other disruptions, questions about the reliability of Singapore's public transport system are being raised. More on the second day of SMRT's EWL disruption here.

A recent survey by recruitment firm Robert Walters indicates that nearly 70 per cent of Singaporean employers find a four-day work week feasible, yet only 18 per cent are planning to implement it soon. While 93 per cent of employees express eagerness for the shift, concerns about workload and implementation challenges persist among employers. A Yahoo Singapore poll found 90 per cent of respondents in favour of a four-day work week. Singaporean employers will be mandated to consider formal requests for flexible work arrangements by 1 December. Find out if a four-day work week can change Singapore's work culture here.

The challenge of youth disengagement is increasingly pressing in Singapore, where around 17,000 young people are not in education, employment, or training, marking an increase from 3.7 per cent in 2013. A recent conference highlighted the risks of social exclusion, focusing on the need for supportive measures to assist this vulnerable group. The changing landscape, characterised by excessive information and isolation, contributes to the struggles of these youths. More on the 17,000 Singaporean youths currently sidelined from education and work here.

The world’s coolest neighbourhoods for 2024 have been revealed, and Singapore’s Orchard Road has made the list, reflecting a dynamic shift from shopping hub to cultural hotspot. With exciting new venues and a creative spirit, Orchard Road is at the forefront of urban exploration. Find out the 38 coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now here.

Erling Haaland has quickly made his mark at Manchester City, reaching 100 goals in just 105 matches. His remarkable scoring rate positions him to potentially break Alan Shearer's Premier League record of 260 goals, among other milestones. Haaland’s scoring diversity and his recent cheeky antics have added depth to his character, making him not just a goal machine but also a notable figure in the rivalry with Arsenal. Here's what's next for Manchester City star Erling Haaland.

A recent survey reveals that younger Singaporeans are increasingly focused on early retirement, with many aiming to stop working before the age of 60. The survey findings by Etiqa Insurance highlight their optimism, but also raise concerns about financial preparedness and the potential for a retirement gap. Here's how financial realities may dash younger Singaporeans' early retirement ambitions.

How long should great sex last? A new study suggests 35 minutes is ideal, with 15 minutes of foreplay, 15 minutes of intercourse, and 5 minutes of afterplay. Regular sex is crucial for health, and extra foreplay boosts satisfaction. Most people find nighttime, especially weekends, the best time for sex. Read on how you can transform your sex life to achieve maximum satisfaction.

In a bizarre case of deception, a 49-year-old man in Malaysia was scammed out of over $6000 (RM20,000) after falling for a sperm donation scheme. Lured by an enticing online advertisement featuring a beautiful woman, he was contacted by a woman supposedly in Singapore. He soon found himself caught in a web of false promises and fraudulent contracts. Here's how fraudsters use attractive ads to scam their victims.

Hong Kong has reclaimed its status as Asia’s leading financial hub, pushing Singapore to second place, according to the latest Global Financial Centres Index. Hong Kong's rise is attributed to a recovering stock market and new IPOs, while Singapore sees modest gains but drops in ranking. Globally, the competition among financial centres remains fierce amid geopolitical risks that are looming large. See how the global financial centres stack up here.

LIVE COVERAGE IS OVER9 updates
  • Featured

    Singapore falls to second in Asia in latest financial rankings

    Financial buildings looking up in the office district in Singapore
    Singapore slips to second in Asia in the latest Global Financial Centres Index. (Photo: Getty Images)

    Singapore has been overtaken by Hong Kong as the leading financial centre in Asia, according to the latest Global Financial Centres Index.

    This shift marks the first time in two years that Hong Kong has reclaimed the top position in the region, ranking third globally, just behind New York and London.

    Singapore now sits at fourth globally and has slipped to second in Asia due to recent economic trends and market performance.

    Despite Singapore's drop in ranking, it still managed a modest increase of five points, indicating that while it remains a significant financial hub, it faces growing competition from Hong Kong.

    The index highlights the importance of responsive economic policies and market conditions in determining the standings of financial centres.

    Kuala Lumpur has shown notable improvement in Southeast Asia, gaining 13 points to reach the 59th position globally.

    Wider trends in Asia reveal that while Hong Kong is experiencing a resurgence, other cities like Shanghai and Beijing have fallen in the rankings.

    The report attributes Hong Kong's rise to a recovering stock market, new public listings, and supportive government policies.

    The easing of pandemic restrictions and an influx of capital have revitalised Hong Kong's financial landscape, making it more attractive to global investors.

    Globally, the index reflects a competitive atmosphere, with many cities making gains while others struggle.

    The report emphasises that geopolitical risks remain a significant concern for financial centres worldwide, affecting their stability and growth.

    The index, compiled by Z/Yen Partners and the China Development Institute, assessed 121 financial centres based on multiple criteria, including business environment and human capital.

    Read about the global financial rankings shake-up here.

  • Featured

    Younger Singaporeans aim for early retirement

    financial planning consultation - asian Businessman consulting young couple in cafe
    While many young Singaporeans express early retirement ambitions, starting their financial planning late could jeopardise their goals. (Photo: Getty Images)

    A recent survey by Etiqa Insurance highlights that most younger Singaporeans aspire to retire early, ideally before the age of 60.

    According to the survey, 81 per cent of Singaporeans plan to retire between 50 and 70, with a significant number aiming for 60.

    Most millennials (75 per cent) and Gen Z (69 per cent) feel confident about achieving their retirement goals, expecting to live on less thanS$6,000 a month.

    However, many start planning for retirement only in their 30s, which may jeopardise their long-term financial security.

    While younger Singaporeans are proactive about retirement, many underestimate the time and funds necessary to maintain their desired lifestyle.

    Etiqa Insurance CEO Raymond Ong warns of a potential retirement gap if this trend continues.

    Despite a general optimism, factors like rising living costs and inflation prompt the need for serious financial planning, starting earlier and investing wisely.

    The survey also reveals that younger generations prefer conservative financial instruments for retirement savings, such as savings accounts and CPF contributions.

    This cautious approach has helped them capitalise on recent high-interest rates, but experts urge a reevaluation of strategies to achieve better growth in uncertain economic times.

    Notably, the survey indicates that a substantial portion of Singaporeans, particularly 25 per cent, have yet to begin planning for retirement.

    Common barriers include focusing on immediate financial needs and feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of financial planning.

    The report also stresses the importance of healthcare and insurance coverage in retirement planning.

    With many younger Singaporeans prioritising wealth transfer for future generations, there is a risk that they might neglect their own financial security, exacerbating the retirement gap.

    Read on how underestimating financial needs may jeopardise younger Singaporeans' early retirement aspirations here.

  • Featured

    Orchard Road is one of the world's coolest neighbourhoods

    Close-up of Singapore shopping paradise area in downtown Orchard road
    Time Out's 2024 list of the world's coolest neighbourhoods features Orchard Road in Singapore, evolving into a cultural hub. (Photo: Getty Images)

    In the latest ranking by Time Out, Orchard Road in Singapore has emerged as a vibrant hotspot among the world's coolest neighbourhoods for 2024.

    Known for its bustling shopping belt, Orchard Road is transforming beyond retail into a hub for young, creative spirits.

    Recent openings such as a state-of-the-art adventure complex, pottery workshops, and an art gallery dedicated to Asian artists are reshaping its identity.

    The neighbourhood's unique blend of urban living and artistic expression makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.

    The rankings highlight the significance of community, culture, and creativity in defining what makes a neighbourhood "cool."

    As cities adapt and transform, these neighbourhoods not only provide an avenue for local businesses but also offer visitors a genuine taste of urban life.

    Each neighbourhood tells its own story, inviting all to discover the coolest places to be.

    Read more about the 38 world's coolest neighbourhoods here.

  • Featured

    EWL disruption: Commuters face more delays on day two of stalled services

    Singapore, Singapore-June 1, 2019: Commuters in MRT Subway Singapore.
    SMRT's East-West Line (EWL) disruption has entered its second day, affecting services between Jurong East and Buona Vista due to a traction power fault. (Photo: Getty Images)

    As the train disruption on the East-West Line (EWL) enters its second day, commuters continue to face significant challenges.

    Train services between Jurong East and Buona Vista remain suspended due to a traction power fault that originated from a power trip on Wednesday (25 Sept) morning.

    This incident stranded approximately 850 passengers and led to extensive service outages, affecting nine stations along this route.

    In response to the ongoing disruption, SMRT has implemented shuttle bus services between Boon Lay and Jurong East, as well as between Queenstown and Buona Vista.

    Additionally, free regular bus services are being offered between Boon Lay and Queenstown, and bridging buses are in operation for affected commuters.

    SMRT staff are deployed to assist passengers and maintain order, but some commuters report frustrations with crowd management and long wait times.

    The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said in a statement that repair works are underway, but the extent of the damage means that train services will remain suspended for an extended period.

    They are conducting thorough checks on all affected trains before returning them to service.

    The LTA has encouraged commuters to stay informed through social media updates.

    Despite the chaos, many commuters have adapted to the situation.

    Reports indicate that while the morning rush was crowded, SMRT staff worked efficiently to guide passengers to buses.

    This disruption follows a series of recent MRT service interruptions, raising concerns about the reliability of public transport in Singapore.

    Read on the second day of SMRT's EWL disruption here.

  • Featured

    Four-day work week gains popularity, but not in Singapore

    Office workers cross a street during lunch hour at the central business district in Singapore April 27, 2016. REUTERS/Edgar Su
    Nearly 70% of Singaporean employers find a four-day work week feasible, but only 18% are ready to try it, despite 93% of employees wanting the change. REUTERS/Edgar Su

    A recent survey conducted by headhunting and recruitment agency Robert Walters found that nearly 70 per cent of Singaporean employers consider a four-day work week feasible.

    This perspective aligns with a growing global conversation about flexible work arrangements, as seen in various countries that have trialed this model.

    While employers see potential benefits in productivity and employee well-being, they remain cautious about implementing such changes, with only 18% planning to transition within the next two years.

    The enthusiasm for a four-day work week is notably stronger among employees, with 93 per cent expressing interest in trialing this arrangement.

    A Yahoo Singapore poll found 90 per cent of respondents in favour of a four-day work week.

    Their primary motivations include achieving better work-life balance and having more time for family.

    However, concerns about increased workload and stress from condensing tasks into fewer days linger among some workers.

    In comparison to other Southeast Asian countries, Singaporean employers show more hesitance.

    Countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines report higher acceptance rates for a shorter work week, reflecting differing workplace cultures and attitudes towards employee flexibility.

    Despite the interest in a four-day week, many employers in Singapore highlight the challenges of implementation, fearing operational disruptions and employee dissatisfaction.

    As businesses grapple with a competitive landscape, some express worries about maintaining productivity and potential impacts on employee morale.

    By 1 December, Singaporean employers will be mandated to consider formal requests for flexible work arrangements.

    However, the government has clarified that flexible work options extend beyond a four-day work week, encompassing various arrangements like part-time and remote work.

    Will Singapore embrace the four-day work week trend?

  • Featured

    17,000 Singaporean youths are not in school, work or training

    Two young men check their mobile telephones while sitting on the pavement in Singapore on September 17, 2019. (Photo by Mladen ANTONOV / AFP)        (Photo credit should read MLADEN ANTONOV/AFP via Getty Images)
    Youth isolation in Singapore is rising, with around 17,000 Singaporean youths aged 15-24 not in school or work and disengaged from society. (Photo: MLADEN ANTONOV/AFP via Getty Images)

    Around 17,000 youths in Singapore, aged 15 to 24, are classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), representing 4.1% of the youth population, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Eric Chua said on Wednesday (25 Sept).

    This marks an increase from 3.7 per cent in 2013, despite remaining below the global average of 22.4%, according to Chua.

    Chua highlighted these figures during the inaugural Youth Outreach Conference at the National University of Singapore, emphasising the risk of social exclusion for these individuals.

    The conference aimed to address the challenges facing troubled youth, particularly "hidden youth" who isolate themselves at home.

    This demographic has reportedly increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, exacerbating issues of low self-esteem and social isolation.

    Chua noted the importance of community and family support to help reintegrate these youths into society.

    Chua emphasised that the changing landscape – characterised by excessive information and consumerism – affects today’s youth.

    He pointed out the contrast with his own upbringing, where accessing information required visiting libraries, unlike the constant online comparisons youth face today.

    This environment, he argued, diminishes emotional connections and face-to-face interactions.

    Read more on the 17,000 Singaporean youths currently sidelined from education and work here.

  • Man duped out of $6000 by attractive woman in sperm donation scam

    A focused and serious looking man working and thinking hard on a computer
    A man in Malaysia was duped out of $6,000 after responding to an enticing advertisement from a woman supposedly in Singapore. (Photo: Getty Images)

    A 49-year-old man in Malaysia fell victim to a sperm donation scam, losing over $6,000 (RM20,000).

    The scam began when man, identified only as Lee, saw an online advertisement featuring an attractive woman, which prompted him to fill out a form with his personal information.

    Soon after, he was contacted via WhatsApp by a woman, who claimed to be from Singapore and suggested that the sperm donation would involve sexual intercourse.

    To further entice the man, the woman, who introduced herself as Chen, sent a photo and voice messages, which were later determined to be likely stolen from a modelling agency.

    Chen initially requested RM1,000 to connect Lee with her lawyer, promising a substantial payout of RM1 million if he participated in the donation.

    After making the initial payment, Lee received a contract promising an upfront payment of RM300,000 within 48 hours, followed by RM700,000 upon confirmation of conception.

    Despite the contract bearing the name of a reputable Malaysian law firm, Lee, who struggled with reading literacy, did not recognise it as a scam.

    He ended up paying an additional RM24,000 in processing fees before becoming suspicious when the lawyer demanded another RM30,000.

    Realising something was wrong, Lee sought help from Malaysian authorities, which confirmed that the law firm had no connection to the scammers and that they were likely part of a local syndicate using the names of legitimate firms to enhance their credibility.

    Authorities pointed out that the woman’s voice messages had a non-local accent and sounded robotic, which should have raised red flags for the man.

    Read on how scammers use attractive ads to dupe their victims.

  • Timing matters if you want great sex

    Love emotion concept:  hand of couple love on the white bed
    A study has determined that the perfect duration for fulfilling sex is approximately 35 minutes. (Photo: Getty Images)

    Want to know the perfect duration for great sex?

    A new study revealed that the optimal time for a satisfying sexual experience is around 35 minutes.

    This includes 15 minutes of foreplay, 15 minutes of intercourse, and 5 minutes of afterplay.

    This duration is considered ideal for achieving both physical and emotional satisfaction.

    According to Chinese medicine and recent research, regular sexual activity – ideally at least once a week – is important for maintaining health and enhancing interpersonal connections.

    Insufficient sexual activity is linked to negative health outcomes, including a higher risk of death for women.

    Find out how long your sex sessions should really be for the ultimate satisfaction.

  • What records can Manchester City's scoring machine Erling Haaland break?

    MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22: Erling Haaland of Manchester City squares up to Gabriel Magalhaes of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Manchester City FC and Arsenal FC at Etihad Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
    Erling Haaland of Manchester City squares up to Gabriel Magalhaes of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Manchester City FC and Arsenal FC at Etihad Stadium on 22 September 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

    Erling Haaland recently celebrated a significant milestone by scoring his 100th goal for Manchester City during a dramatic 2-2 draw against Arsenal.

    This remarkable achievement came in just 105 appearances, highlighting his prolific scoring ability since joining the club in 2022.

    His average of one goal every 85 minutes and impressive start to the season – with 10 goals in just five games – suggests that he is on track to shatter multiple records, including Alan Shearer’s all-time Premier League goals record of 260 goals.

    Haaland's scoring prowess has made him a standout player in English football, as he has won the Golden Boot in both of his seasons with City.

    He equalled Cristiano Ronaldo's record for the fewest games taken to reach 100 goals in Europe's top five leagues.

    His diverse scoring includes 73 goals in the Premier League, 18 in the Champions League, and a mix of headers, penalties, and long-range strikes, making him a formidable threat on the pitch.

    The next immediate target for Haaland is to break the record for the quickest player to score 100 Premier League goals, currently held by Shearer, which requires him to net 27 more goals in his next 52 games.

    Additionally, he has the potential to surpass Sergio Aguero as Manchester City's all-time top scorer if he maintains his current form.

    Long-term, he could aim to become Norway's all-time leading scorer, as he is only one goal away from that milestone.

    Beyond his scoring records, Haaland has recently showcased a more playful side, emerging as a notable "wind-up merchant" during matches.

    In the same game where he scored his 100th goal, he cheekily threw the ball at Arsenal defender Gabriel's head, drawing attention to his growing role in the rivalry between the two clubs.

    Find out what's next for Manchester City star Erling Haaland here.