RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
All secondary school students will receive a personal laptop or tablet for learning by next year - seven years ahead of the original target.
Graduates from the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), polytechnics and universities will soon be able to apply for new courses that offer additional professional certificates.
To help both fresh entrants to the job market and those who might find themselves seeking employment as a fallout of the COVID-19 slowdown, the Government will set up satellite career centres islandwide.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Singapore's economy is expected to rise by 6% or more this year, according to the government's most recent prediction.
• Following the cabinet reshuffle on May 15, seven of the 15 ministries will be led by new ministers.
• Restrictions should be eased if the Covid-19 situation improves and the number of community cases lowers further.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights are:
1) Education Minister Mr Ong Ye Kung announced that the present system of streaming secondary students into the Express, Normal (Academic) and Normal (Technical) streams will be phased out, and replaced by full subject-based banding.
2) Professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) made up about three in four or 76% of the locals - Singaporeans and permanent residents - who were retrenched last year, the highest figure in at least a decade.
3) Lower-income families will receive a lot more help in their home ownership journey, from getting grants to a team of officers dedicated to monitoring their progress.
We hope that you find the information useful in assisting you in your efforts.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
Budget 2021 provides a suite of measures to create a vibrant economy with good jobs and opportunities for Singaporeans and business; cohesive society with a strong social compact and community spirit; welcoming and sustainable home for generations to come; and fiscal and social reserves to enable continued stability and progress.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The three key highlights are:
1. Singapore’s unemployment situation has continued to improve, with declines seen across the overall, resident and citizen unemployment rates.
2. COVID-19 breathalysers could be used on large scale in Singapore soon, facilitating safe travel arrangements and screenings at large scale events.
3. Based on the new PSLE scoring system, schools will now be less differentiated by cut-off points, and pupils will have a wider range of secondary schools to choose from.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
- Health (71)
- Community (61)
- Economy (37)
This reflects Singapore’s growing concerns over community and economic trends due to the loosening of Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) restrictions and developments in Singapore’s COVID-19 vaccination plan.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. The fight against COVID-19 has entered a new phase as the Singapore government unveiled the comprehensive vaccination programme for the people.
2. Despite a challenging year, Singapore’s economy has received $17.2 billion in fixed asset investments in 2020.
3. The ninth M3 town in Geylang Serai was launched on 23rd January. Wisma Geylang Serai seeks to be a pillar of support for the community as it plans new initiative such as promoting lifelong learning and healthy lifestyle
Your feedback is important for us to continuously improve our resources and publications for our readers.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Singapore's economy is expected to rise by 6% or more this year, according to the government's most recent prediction.
• Following the cabinet reshuffle on May 15, seven of the 15 ministries will be led by new ministers.
• Restrictions should be eased if the Covid-19 situation improves and the number of community cases lowers further.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights are:
1) Education Minister Mr Ong Ye Kung announced that the present system of streaming secondary students into the Express, Normal (Academic) and Normal (Technical) streams will be phased out, and replaced by full subject-based banding.
2) Professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) made up about three in four or 76% of the locals - Singaporeans and permanent residents - who were retrenched last year, the highest figure in at least a decade.
3) Lower-income families will receive a lot more help in their home ownership journey, from getting grants to a team of officers dedicated to monitoring their progress.
We hope that you find the information useful in assisting you in your efforts.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
Budget 2021 provides a suite of measures to create a vibrant economy with good jobs and opportunities for Singaporeans and business; cohesive society with a strong social compact and community spirit; welcoming and sustainable home for generations to come; and fiscal and social reserves to enable continued stability and progress.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The three key highlights are:
1. Singapore’s unemployment situation has continued to improve, with declines seen across the overall, resident and citizen unemployment rates.
2. COVID-19 breathalysers could be used on large scale in Singapore soon, facilitating safe travel arrangements and screenings at large scale events.
3. Based on the new PSLE scoring system, schools will now be less differentiated by cut-off points, and pupils will have a wider range of secondary schools to choose from.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
- Health (71)
- Community (61)
- Economy (37)
This reflects Singapore’s growing concerns over community and economic trends due to the loosening of Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) restrictions and developments in Singapore’s COVID-19 vaccination plan.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. The fight against COVID-19 has entered a new phase as the Singapore government unveiled the comprehensive vaccination programme for the people.
2. Despite a challenging year, Singapore’s economy has received $17.2 billion in fixed asset investments in 2020.
3. The ninth M3 town in Geylang Serai was launched on 23rd January. Wisma Geylang Serai seeks to be a pillar of support for the community as it plans new initiative such as promoting lifelong learning and healthy lifestyle
Your feedback is important for us to continuously improve our resources and publications for our readers.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The highlights for this issue are:
1) Under the new integrated general hospital model, elderly patients will be cared for by the same team, from admission to discharge
2) Adults can now apply to polytechnics for full-time studies under a new scheme that gives more weight to their work experience
3) Updates to the progressive wage model (PWM) for the landscape sector mean that workers will get a bonus and wage boost
We hope that you will find the information useful in assisting you in your efforts.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Design Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
- Record number of 96,000 in Singapore get financial aid from ComCare amid Covid-19. This is a 22% increase from the 78,580 people in the year before.
- More than 2,900 participated in MENDAKI’s ‘Raikan Ilmu’ Month
- A $640 million package of support measures will be extended to individuals and businesses affected by the one-month extension of tighter measures under the stabilisation phase.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The highlights for this issue are:
1) A new multi-agency taskforce has been set up to reduce diabetes risk and promote healthy living.
2) A drop in forecasted growth for Singapore’s 2019 economy due to trade tensions
3) Changes to the admissions criteria for Secondary schools and Universities
We hope that you will find the information useful in assisting you in your efforts.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• The Education Ministry has announced measures to facilitate the rollout of new Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) Scoring system that takes effect in 2021. To familiarise parents and pupils with the new PSLE scoring system, Primary 5 pupils will be graded using the new scoring system from 2020.
• By October 2019, more Singaporeans will benefit from healthcare subsidies under the revised income criteria. The Health Ministry will raise the income ceilings for various schemes like MediShield Life premiums and drug subsidies.
• In line with Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat's vision for the Government to partner Singaporeans to design and implement policies together, Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli announced the launch of the Co-creation@M³ / CiptaSama@M³ series of engagements. This is a platform for Malay/Muslims to share their views on national issues in a forward-looking way.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. Singapore's economy will grow by 5.5 per cent in 2021, putting an end to the nation's worst recession ever.
2. The first shipment of Covid-19 vaccine has arrived in Singapore on 21 Dec 2020.
3. The new COVID-19 Recovery Grant, which will be launched on 18 Jan 2021, focuses on lower- to middle-income workers and self-employed people.
4. Three new M³@Towns has been announced to be established in 2021. They are M³ @ Geylang Serai, M³ @ Bishan-Toa Payoh and M³ @ Jalan Besar.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• A survey commissioned by The Sunday Times found that around 60 per cent of retirees say they have a monthly income of at least $1,379, an amount experts recently recommended as necessary for a basic standard of living.
• DPM Heng Swee Keat detailed how the 4G leadership team plans to work with Singaporeans in the Singapore Together movement, to create a shared future where everyone will have a part to play.
• At the annual Hari Raya get-together for community and religious leaders, Mr Masagos Zulkifli highlighted the Malay/Muslim community as a community of success and said that whilst Muslim communities globally find themselves in challenging times, Muslims in Singapore have much to take heart about and can be a model for other countries. He also highlighted two goals for the community: Ensure that all Malay/Muslim students can, at the very least, enrol and graduate from an Institute of Technical Education, and to get as many students as possible into university.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• About 3,500 polytechnic and Institute of Technical Education (ITE) students have benefitted from the Ministry of Education Opportunity Fund (MOE). The fund can benefit students from low-income families for overseas exposure visits. This is a 33 per cent increase from two years ago (BH, 4 Sep).
• Service-sector companies can now get more help to transform their businesses as they adapt to changing manpower needs and consumer demands, under the new Service Industry Transformation Programme (SITP) announced by Manpower Minister Josephine Teo (ST, 12 Sep).
• First-time buyers will get higher grants and more flexibility to choose the size of their flat and where it is located. Minister for National Development Lawrence Wong said yesterday that the new Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG), which streamlines two older grants, gives couples more flexibility in affording a flat that suits their needs (ST, 11 Sep).
• A month-long campaign with a variety of activities and events aimed at promoting lifelong learning will be launched next month. Hosted by Yayasan MENDAKI for the first time, the campaign called Bulan Raikan Ilmu is made possible by the cooperation of over 50 partners, with a variety of activities and events held throughout Singapore. (BH, 20 Sep)
The State of the Youth Report is an audit of the Government of Uganda's investment in Young People. It is based on the demands made by the young people contained in the 2016-2021 National Youth Manifesto.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND UNEMPLOYMENT IN NIGERIAIJM Journal
A number of policy intermediations in Nigeria that were targeted at inspiring and stimulating entrepreneurship development through small and medium scale enterprises have botched. In its place of creating in-country entrepreneurial capacity, entrepreneurs have been converted and become distribution agents of imported goods. This paper argues the development of entrepreneurship and stressed that it has been instrumental in economic growth, balanced regional development and job creation in most vibrant economies, where technology is changing at a faster rate and the product lifetime cycle is dwindling. This paper also looks at Nigeria’s growing unemployment situation and how it increasingly deteriorates the potentials of the country. It emphasizes the prominence and significance of entrepreneurship as realistic machinery for sustainable economic growth and employment generation in Nigeria seeing the experiences of developed nations like Australia, the United States and vibrant economies like China and India.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. Singapore has entered a technical recession as GDP dives 12.6 per cent, due to circuit breaker measures and weak external demand (ST, 15 Jul).
2. A Beyond COVID-19 Taskforce, formed by National Council of Social Services (NCSS), is planning to help social service agencies digitalise and be more innovative in delivering their services during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond (ST, 4 Jul).
3. The Singapore Cabinet has been sworn in at the Istana on 27 Jul, as PM Lee aims to aims to hand over Singapore “intact and in working order into good hands who will take the country further forward” after steering it through COVID-19 crisis (ST, 27 Jul). The new Cabinet line-up will include 6 office-holders from the Malay community (ST, 25 Jul).
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1) President Halimah has given her presidential address at the opening of the 14th Parliament. She highlighted that Singapore needs to constantly review its COVID-19 strategies as the situation continues to develop. To continue to prosper and succeed, she urged Singaporeans to be more resilient and nimble when adapting to a new domestic and international environment.
2) As the economy continues to contract, employment and employability issues among Singaporeans have become increasingly pertinent. Hence, various ministries, agencies and organisations have stepped up their efforts to the mitigate the impacts on workers in Singapore.
3) Malay/Muslim organisations in Singapore have increased their initiatives to help the community during the pandemic. For instance, Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry(SMCCI) has partnered with Singapore Muslim Women’s Association(PPIS) to develop a programme that equips women with skills and knowledge to start a micro business. On the education front, Yayasan MENDAKI has allocated S$1.9 million from its reserves for the first half of the year to support educational needs of students.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The highlights for this issue are:
1) Under the new integrated general hospital model, elderly patients will be cared for by the same team, from admission to discharge
2) Adults can now apply to polytechnics for full-time studies under a new scheme that gives more weight to their work experience
3) Updates to the progressive wage model (PWM) for the landscape sector mean that workers will get a bonus and wage boost
We hope that you will find the information useful in assisting you in your efforts.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Design Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
- Record number of 96,000 in Singapore get financial aid from ComCare amid Covid-19. This is a 22% increase from the 78,580 people in the year before.
- More than 2,900 participated in MENDAKI’s ‘Raikan Ilmu’ Month
- A $640 million package of support measures will be extended to individuals and businesses affected by the one-month extension of tighter measures under the stabilisation phase.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The highlights for this issue are:
1) A new multi-agency taskforce has been set up to reduce diabetes risk and promote healthy living.
2) A drop in forecasted growth for Singapore’s 2019 economy due to trade tensions
3) Changes to the admissions criteria for Secondary schools and Universities
We hope that you will find the information useful in assisting you in your efforts.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• The Education Ministry has announced measures to facilitate the rollout of new Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) Scoring system that takes effect in 2021. To familiarise parents and pupils with the new PSLE scoring system, Primary 5 pupils will be graded using the new scoring system from 2020.
• By October 2019, more Singaporeans will benefit from healthcare subsidies under the revised income criteria. The Health Ministry will raise the income ceilings for various schemes like MediShield Life premiums and drug subsidies.
• In line with Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat's vision for the Government to partner Singaporeans to design and implement policies together, Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli announced the launch of the Co-creation@M³ / CiptaSama@M³ series of engagements. This is a platform for Malay/Muslims to share their views on national issues in a forward-looking way.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. Singapore's economy will grow by 5.5 per cent in 2021, putting an end to the nation's worst recession ever.
2. The first shipment of Covid-19 vaccine has arrived in Singapore on 21 Dec 2020.
3. The new COVID-19 Recovery Grant, which will be launched on 18 Jan 2021, focuses on lower- to middle-income workers and self-employed people.
4. Three new M³@Towns has been announced to be established in 2021. They are M³ @ Geylang Serai, M³ @ Bishan-Toa Payoh and M³ @ Jalan Besar.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• A survey commissioned by The Sunday Times found that around 60 per cent of retirees say they have a monthly income of at least $1,379, an amount experts recently recommended as necessary for a basic standard of living.
• DPM Heng Swee Keat detailed how the 4G leadership team plans to work with Singaporeans in the Singapore Together movement, to create a shared future where everyone will have a part to play.
• At the annual Hari Raya get-together for community and religious leaders, Mr Masagos Zulkifli highlighted the Malay/Muslim community as a community of success and said that whilst Muslim communities globally find themselves in challenging times, Muslims in Singapore have much to take heart about and can be a model for other countries. He also highlighted two goals for the community: Ensure that all Malay/Muslim students can, at the very least, enrol and graduate from an Institute of Technical Education, and to get as many students as possible into university.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• About 3,500 polytechnic and Institute of Technical Education (ITE) students have benefitted from the Ministry of Education Opportunity Fund (MOE). The fund can benefit students from low-income families for overseas exposure visits. This is a 33 per cent increase from two years ago (BH, 4 Sep).
• Service-sector companies can now get more help to transform their businesses as they adapt to changing manpower needs and consumer demands, under the new Service Industry Transformation Programme (SITP) announced by Manpower Minister Josephine Teo (ST, 12 Sep).
• First-time buyers will get higher grants and more flexibility to choose the size of their flat and where it is located. Minister for National Development Lawrence Wong said yesterday that the new Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG), which streamlines two older grants, gives couples more flexibility in affording a flat that suits their needs (ST, 11 Sep).
• A month-long campaign with a variety of activities and events aimed at promoting lifelong learning will be launched next month. Hosted by Yayasan MENDAKI for the first time, the campaign called Bulan Raikan Ilmu is made possible by the cooperation of over 50 partners, with a variety of activities and events held throughout Singapore. (BH, 20 Sep)
The State of the Youth Report is an audit of the Government of Uganda's investment in Young People. It is based on the demands made by the young people contained in the 2016-2021 National Youth Manifesto.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND UNEMPLOYMENT IN NIGERIAIJM Journal
A number of policy intermediations in Nigeria that were targeted at inspiring and stimulating entrepreneurship development through small and medium scale enterprises have botched. In its place of creating in-country entrepreneurial capacity, entrepreneurs have been converted and become distribution agents of imported goods. This paper argues the development of entrepreneurship and stressed that it has been instrumental in economic growth, balanced regional development and job creation in most vibrant economies, where technology is changing at a faster rate and the product lifetime cycle is dwindling. This paper also looks at Nigeria’s growing unemployment situation and how it increasingly deteriorates the potentials of the country. It emphasizes the prominence and significance of entrepreneurship as realistic machinery for sustainable economic growth and employment generation in Nigeria seeing the experiences of developed nations like Australia, the United States and vibrant economies like China and India.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. Singapore has entered a technical recession as GDP dives 12.6 per cent, due to circuit breaker measures and weak external demand (ST, 15 Jul).
2. A Beyond COVID-19 Taskforce, formed by National Council of Social Services (NCSS), is planning to help social service agencies digitalise and be more innovative in delivering their services during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond (ST, 4 Jul).
3. The Singapore Cabinet has been sworn in at the Istana on 27 Jul, as PM Lee aims to aims to hand over Singapore “intact and in working order into good hands who will take the country further forward” after steering it through COVID-19 crisis (ST, 27 Jul). The new Cabinet line-up will include 6 office-holders from the Malay community (ST, 25 Jul).
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1) President Halimah has given her presidential address at the opening of the 14th Parliament. She highlighted that Singapore needs to constantly review its COVID-19 strategies as the situation continues to develop. To continue to prosper and succeed, she urged Singaporeans to be more resilient and nimble when adapting to a new domestic and international environment.
2) As the economy continues to contract, employment and employability issues among Singaporeans have become increasingly pertinent. Hence, various ministries, agencies and organisations have stepped up their efforts to the mitigate the impacts on workers in Singapore.
3) Malay/Muslim organisations in Singapore have increased their initiatives to help the community during the pandemic. For instance, Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry(SMCCI) has partnered with Singapore Muslim Women’s Association(PPIS) to develop a programme that equips women with skills and knowledge to start a micro business. On the education front, Yayasan MENDAKI has allocated S$1.9 million from its reserves for the first half of the year to support educational needs of students.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. Singapore’s GDP is forecasted to gradually grow to 4 to 6 per cent in 2021. The bulk of economic growth will come from trade and manufacturing sectors.
2. DPM Heng unveiled a $107 billion plan in his Singapore Budget 2021 speech, which includes a $11 billion COVID 19 Resilience Package.
3. M3@Jalan Besar was launched and its initiative aim to help residents cope with mental health issues and empower elderly residents to adopt digital tools.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• With a total of 262 articles, Social and Community (85), Budget 2021 (56) and Economy and employability (42) news were widely reported in March 2021. This reflects Singapore’s on-going concerns over economic and employability issues arising from COVID-19.
• This reflects Singapore’s growing concerns over social and community issues arising from COVID-19 and the highlights of the Singapore Budget 2021 initiatives.
• This version of Bites will cover aspects of the Budget that was engaged by the Straits Times, Berita Harian and Berita Minggu.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. Singapore's economy rebounded in the third quarter, but the outlook next year remains uncertain.
2. The Tripartite Workgroup on Lower Wage Workers was set up to study how to raise the wages of low-income workers and push productivity growth.
3. M3 Focus Area 4 (FA 4) was launched on 11 Oct 2020. It aims to prepare the Malay/Muslim workforce amid changing economic landscape through provision of job opportunities,
skills enhancements and career advisories.
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• The Singapore Budget will continue to provide support for sectors that face difficulties amid the Covid-19 pandemic and help Singaporeans manage concerns over the cost of living.
• Lower-income groups will benefit the most from the comprehensive set of measures laid out in the Budget to help everyone cope with the cost of living.
• National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and MENDAKI sign Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to help Malay-Muslim workers boost skills and employability.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• The recently rolled out Fortitude Budget aims to help Singaporeans be resilient during Covid-19. The $33 billion budget focuses on creating job opportunities and leveraging on technology to help businesses and individuals.
• The government has planned to end the Circuit Breaker measures on 1st June 2020. By ending the Circuit Breaker measures, the government has aimed to reopen three-quarter of the economy. The reopening of the economy is being done in phases to ensure it does not lead to a spike in new cases.
• The SGTeguhBersatu initiative has continued to help the Malay/Muslim community during the pandemic. As part of the initiative, a new committee headed by Minister of State, Mr Zaqy Mohamad, was introduced to look into more ways to help the Malay/Muslim jobseekers. The committee will work together with organisations such as Mendaki Sense and NTUC to help individuals with their career issues.
Your feedback is important for us to continuously improve our resources and publications for our readers.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. Singapore remains extremely concerned over the economic and employment outlook in September.
2. The Government loosened more Safe Reopening measures to allow more sectors to resume operations in light of the improving COVID-19 situation.
3. Changes to Malay/Muslim community leadership were announced by Minister Masagos where responsibilities are now split amongst several political office-holders
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
o Singaporeans may soon get a new avenue to voice their concerns through a platform where petitions that garner 10,000 supporters will be submitted to the relevant ministries for review.
o Over 110 learning courses were launched by SG Enable at a new learning hub for the disabled at Enabling Village, Lengkok Bahru.
o Some analysts believe the time frame for the next recession is getting even shorter with no quick solutions in sight to the problems the world economy is facing.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights are:
1) Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat announces Budget 2019, which focuses on investing in a skilled workforce, building deep enterprise capabilities and strengthening the national social fabric.
2) NIE has developed a new guide “Supporting children in their transition to Primary 1: A guide for teachers and parents in Singapore”. Link to guide: http://bit.ly/fromK2toP1
3) Updates to the progressive wage model (PWM) for the landscape sector mean that workers will get a bonus and wage boost.
We hope that you find the information useful in assisting you in your efforts.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• The Malay/Muslim community in Singapore has made great progress but must now aim higher and go further, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at at MENDAKI’s 40th anniversary celebration on 1 Oct. (ST, 1 Oct)
• More than 190,000 seniors have been trained in basic digital skills, such as using a smartphone to access government services, under the Seniors Go Digital programme by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). (ST, 4 Oct)
• Singaporeans who sign up to the Healthier SG programme will gain advantages through benefits such as free health screening and the use of MediSave funds to pay for chronic diseases, said Health Minister Ong Ye Kung. (ST, 6 Oct)
• Students with different abilities forged more friendships across academic streams when brought together in a form class, a study by National Institute of Education (NIE) has found. (ST, 3 Oct)
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
- Education Minister Chan Chun Sing announced that MOE will raise spending to $457 million over next five years to boost social science and humanities research
- Singapore Counselling Centre (SCC) study: More than 80% of S'pore teachers say Covid-19 pandemic has hurt their mental health
- Progressive Wage Model (PWM) boosts workers' income and strengthens family economy
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• A task force to better understand the work-life aspirations of youth and support them in their careers has been launched by the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC).
• People can now sign up for free workshops run by the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), with 30 courses for people to choose from, as part of celebrations to mark ITE’s 30th anniversary.
• The number of mid-career Singaporeans who joined programmes to switch fields last year plunged to 5,080 - from a record high of 13,580 in 2020 at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• More than half of the primary schools and over 90% of secondary schools would have scrapped mid-year examinations for some levels by 2020 – a year ahead of schedule.
• More than 5,500 children aged six and below were diagnosed with developmental problems last year, up from an average of 4,362 new cases each year from 2015 to 2017.
• The POFMA Bill is designed to give the Government the tools to deal with falsehoods on the Internet that can go viral in a matter of minutes and cause untold harm.
Your feedback is important for us to continuously improve our resources and publications for our readers.
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for May 2023 are:
• The commercial property market will not have a significant impact from the latest round of additional buyer’s stamp duty (ABSD) hike because the drivers of the residential and commercial property markets are very different. (ST, 11 May)
• Capitation funding aims to incentivise healthcare providers to place a greater emphasis on preventive care, as this funding model pays them a predetermined amount for each resident in the are under their charge, regardless of whether the person is healthy or not. (ST, 10 May)
• The Singapore Muslim Women’s Association (PPIS) and PMBM Scholarship Fund Board (LBKM) collaborate to offer postgraduate scholarships for women majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), gerontology, women studies and community work. (BH, 03 May)
MENDAKI Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• $1.5b package to help S'poreans cope with inflation; $100 utilities credit for every household
• More retrenched S'pore residents able to land jobs within six months: MOM Q1 report; Job vacancies hit new high for Q1 as firms backfill roles, hire to meet demand
• Early academic gaps between students too significant for comfort and must be closed: Tharman
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Singapore IB students make up half of world's perfect scorers globally, while students who sat for last year’s O level examinations set a new record, with 85.2 per cent of the cohort attaining five or more passes.
• The Singapore Institute of Technology has launched two new degree programmes in speech and language therapy, and digital communications and integrated media, while SUTD has launched a new undergraduate degree in design and AI.
• Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Heng Swee Keat will unveil the annual Budget in Parliament on 18 Feb 2020.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community.
It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Debate on the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Bill (“Fake News Bill”). Concerns were raised over the implementation of the law, especially on what it meant for academic and information freedom. The Government assured the public that the implementation would be fair, and that channels for redress would be made available. ‘
• Cabinet Reshuffle. The cabinet reshuffle saw Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat being appointed as Deputy Prime Minister, and the stepping down of Tharman and Teo Chee Hean from their DPM roles. This is a significant step in the leadership transition process. The new appointments will take effect on 1 May.
• Improvement in Singapore-Malaysia Relations. Progress was made in our relationship with Malaysia following the leaders’ retreat that took place early this month. PMs Lee and Mahathir agreed on the need for improved bilateral relations and greater cooperation between the two countries. The airspace issue over Johor was sorted out and concrete steps were taken in the Johor-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) project.
. If you find this information useful and would like to share with your friends, click to forward.
Your feedback is important for us to continuously improve our resources and publications for our readers.
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Lawrence Wong said that Singapore's way of resolving contentious issues has been to find a combination of compromise and common ground to gradually move society forward, while recognising that some issues are better set aside to be returned to at a later time (ST, 7 Sept)
• Launch of the Healthier SG programme in the second half of 2023 is an initiative that will see Singapore residents paired with a family physician so doctors can more holistically manage a patient's health and focus on prevention of illnesses. (ST, 21 Sept)
• From this month, about 19,000 full-time lower-wage retail assistants, cashiers and assistant retail supervisors will see their salaries rise by 8.4 per cent to 8.5 per cent annually over the next three years. (ST, 7 Sept)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Active Ageing Centres (AACs) will work with community partners and healthcare clusters, and sets aside $800 million to help seniors age well at home and in their communities. (ST, 16 Nov)
• 97 primary school students received bursaries of $500 each, distributed under the Education Trust Fund (ETF) at the Merchant Elementary School Bursary Award organised by Yayasan MENDAKI. (BH, 20 Nov)
• Pre-school enrolment for children from lower-income families remain lower than national average. (ST, 17 Nov)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• The Singapore Government and Singapore Red Cross have pledged a total of $505,000 in humanitarian aid to support relief efforts amid the Israel-Hamas war. (ST, 16 Oct)
• The hike in water price ensures that PUB can continue to cover operating costs while investing in infrastructure to maintain a reliable water supply. (ST, 4 Oct)
• Singaporeans and PRs will be able to receive a $5,000 subsidy for coursework-based master’s programmes at NTU. On top of this, all NTU alumni will receive a 10 percent tuition fee rebate when they enrol in these programmes. (ST, 18 Oct)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for Sep 2023 are:
• $1.1b Cost-of-Living Package consisting of payment up to $200 for 2.5m Singaporeans, extra $200 CDC vouchers, U-Save, S&CC rebates will be handed out to Singaporean household to help with the rising cost of living. (ST, 28 Sep)
• Excluding motor vehicles, retail sales rose just 0.4 per cent year on year, cooling from the 2.3 per cent growth recorded in June. (ST, 05 Sep)
• Government, unions, employer groups start work on guidelines on flexible work arrangements. (ST, 08 Sep)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• The Government understands the financial concerns faced by Singaporeans, and is committed to using resources judiciously to help as many of them as possible. (ST, 12 Aug)
• Lower- and middle-income Singaporeans aged 50 and above this year will get more help to boost their retirement savings under a new package. They will receive a yearly CPF bonus of up to $1,000 as long as they continue working. (ST, 20 Aug)
• To help retrenched workers get back on their feet confidently, the Government will provide temporary financial support so that they can focus on upgrading their skills for a better long-term job. (ST, 20 Aug)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• MOE will broaden Edusave Award to recognise students beyond academic performance. (ST, 12 Jun)
• Pioneer, Merdeka Generations eligible for up to $1,100 in MediSave top-ups in July (ST, 9 Jun)
• Mendaki better at meeting Malay/Muslim community’s needs thanks to 5-year plan: Zaqy (ST, 17 Jun)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• More will be done to support the marriage and parenthood aspirations of Singaporeans, said Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The government will continue to review and update policies, including ways to extend more help to parents who are caring for their infants, and to those seeking to better manage their work and family commitments. (ST, 14 Apr)
• Broadening the definition of meritocracy, introducing targeted re-employment support and reducing the cost of SkillsFuture courses are among the moves the Government will make to shape Singapore’s future amid an uncertain and dangerous external environment. (ST, 17 Apr)
• The Muslim community has learnt from its experience during the Covid-19 pandemic and continued to implement good practices throughout the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, said Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli. (ST, 21 Apr)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Housing Board will increase the proportion of Build-To-Order (BTO) flats with waiting times of under three years as part of the supply of new flats. But it will take at least two years for this to happen, as the priority now is to launch flats to meet urgent housing demand, following the severe disruption in the last two years caused by the Covid-19 pandemic (ST, 11 Dec)
• ASEAN and European Union leaders have much interest in working more closely together, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. The two regional groupings have committed to doing so, including in the digital and green economies, following the conclusion of the one-day Asean-EU Commemorative Summit held in Brussels. PM Lee said the two blocs have made strides this year, citing the Asean-EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement – the world’s first bloc-to-bloc air transport agreement signed in Bali in October – as a significant achievement. (ST, 15 Dec)
• The Basic Healthcare Sum will be raised from $66,000 to $68,500 for Central Provident Fund (CPF) members under 65 years old from January 1st. Those who are 66 and above in 2023 will see no change to their Basic Healthcare Sum, the CPF Board, the Ministry of Health and the Housing Board. (ST, 01 Dec)
• Singaporeans in their 20s and 30s who have a university degree or post-graduate degree earn a median salary of $4,200 a month – more than double the $2,000 that those with secondary and lower education and those with Institute of Technical Education (ITE) qualifications earn. (ST, 05 Dec)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for last month are:
• Govt looking into further prioritising BTO flats for those with more urgent housing needs: Desmond Lee (ST, 21 Nov)
• Health tech start-ups sprout up to aid S’pore’s ageing population (ST, 21 Nov)
• New national centre in Singapore designated to drive adult education sector further forward (ST, 3 Nov)
• Surge in demand for green, digital, care skills in Singapore in last 4 years: SkillsFuture report (ST, 22 Nov)
• Allowances for tutors under the MENDAKI Tuition Scheme (MTS) will be increased by 20 percent from $50 an hour to $60 an hour from January 1 next year. Yayasan MENDAKI will also give financial incentives between $300 and $1,200 annually to tutors who are able to encourage their students to attend MTS classes consistently and achieve good results in their studies. Title: Elaun tutor Mendaki akan dinaikkan (BH, 28 Nov)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Ageism and health are major barriers to seniors staying longer in the workforce (ST, 26 Aug)
• Inflation in Singapore expected to peak in Q4 and stabilize, says DPM Wong (ST, 17 Aug)
• Businesses must be more cost-efficient as salaries rise under Progressive Wage Model: Zaqy (ST, 17 Aug)
• PM Lee recognizes MENDAKI’s efforts in the education of Malay children (PM Lee iktiraf usaha MENDAKI bantu pendidikan anak Melayu) (BH, 21 Aug)
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Singapore private home price growth slows sharply in Q1 on cooling measures
• Singapore inflation jumps to 10-year high in March on higher food, services and transport prices
• NTU launches centre to study how dementia develops in Asians
News Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Design Department (R&D) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Higher grant among initiatives to give more support and respite to caregivers, many of whom are women.
• More going abroad to study from second half of last year; Rise in number of Singaporeans keen on studying in Japan and South Korea.
• Employers to receive over $145m in final JSS payouts to support wages of more than 289,500 local staff.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
1. Singapore will have to put in place more stringent measures to bolster the security of digital banking
2. The upcoming increase in the goods and services (GST) tax will be tackled in Budget 2022, which will be unveiled on Feb 18.
3. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and President Joko Widodo witnessed the signing and exchange of three agreements as well as an exchange of letters undertaking to bring them into force at the same time.
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is produced by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
• Unvaccinated people may not be allowed back to workplace despite negative test result
• Vaccination for kids aged 5 to 11 began on 27 Dec
• S'pore suspends ticket sales for VTL flights and buses for inbound travel between Dec 23 and Jan 20
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is compiled by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
The key highlights for this month are:
The new PSLE scoring system sees more pupils qualifying to take secondary school subjects at higher level as more pupils qualify for Express course and 98.4% progress to secondary school.
13,000 disadvantaged students to get more help to stay in school through after-school support and customised holiday programmes.
More organisations have beefed up mental health support such as organizing self-care activities, training ‘mental health first aiders’, creating portals to provide online mental health resources, and partnering with counselling organisations to provide employee assistance.
Jennifer Schaus and Associates hosts a complimentary webinar series on The FAR in 2024. Join the webinars on Wednesdays and Fridays at noon, eastern.
Recordings are on YouTube and the company website.
https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferschaus/videos
Jennifer Schaus and Associates hosts a complimentary webinar series on The FAR in 2024. Join the webinars on Wednesdays and Fridays at noon, eastern.
Recordings are on YouTube and the company website.
https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferschaus/videos
This session provides a comprehensive overview of the latest updates to the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (commonly known as the Uniform Guidance) outlined in the 2 CFR 200.
With a focus on the 2024 revisions issued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), participants will gain insight into the key changes affecting federal grant recipients. The session will delve into critical regulatory updates, providing attendees with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate and comply with the evolving landscape of federal grant management.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the rationale behind the 2024 updates to the Uniform Guidance outlined in 2 CFR 200, and their implications for federal grant recipients.
- Identify the key changes and revisions introduced by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in the 2024 edition of 2 CFR 200.
- Gain proficiency in applying the updated regulations to ensure compliance with federal grant requirements and avoid potential audit findings.
- Develop strategies for effectively implementing the new guidelines within the grant management processes of their respective organizations, fostering efficiency and accountability in federal grant administration.
Many ways to support street children.pptxSERUDS INDIA
By raising awareness, providing support, advocating for change, and offering assistance to children in need, individuals can play a crucial role in improving the lives of street children and helping them realize their full potential
Donate Us
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Understanding the Challenges of Street ChildrenSERUDS INDIA
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A process server is a authorized person for delivering legal documents, such as summons, complaints, subpoenas, and other court papers, to peoples involved in legal proceedings.
ZGB - The Role of Generative AI in Government transformation.pdfSaeed Al Dhaheri
This keynote was presented during the the 7th edition of the UAE Hackathon 2024. It highlights the role of AI and Generative AI in addressing government transformation to achieve zero government bureaucracy
2. What is RPD Bites?
RPD Bites is a monthly scan covering issues and trends surfaced in various local
mainstream media sources that would be of relevance to the Malay/Muslim community. It is
produced by the Research and Planning Department (RPD) of Yayasan MENDAKI.
RPD Bites begins with an article count across different media sources which are
categorised into these main areas: education, economy, employment and employability, social
and community, and Malay/Muslim affairs. Other salient areas for the month are also
highlighted. It then delves into emerging themes and trends observed.
We hope you find this month’s RPD Bites insightful and useful for your needs. We
look forward to your continued partnership and support, and welcome any suggestions you
might have. You can reach us at RPD@mendaki.org.sg to feedback.
RESEARCH &
PLANNING
DEPARTMENT
2
3. Overall Coverage
• With a total of 395 articles, the themes of Economy, Social and Governance emerged
as the top 3 categories for June.
• A majority of the articles focussed on the COVID-19-induced economic slowdown and
its impact on jobs, businesses and the economy. Many of the articles also shed light
on efforts to help low-income families deal with the recession, and the public health
ramifications of COVID-19.
37
97 86
1018 26
60
38
55
123
146
48
Governance Social Economy Malay Muslim Affairs
No. of Articles
ST BH/BM Total
3
4. Overall Coverage: Key Categories
• In the Governance, Education, Economy and
Employment category, the breakdown is as
follows: Governance (55 articles), Education
(23), Economy (60) and Employment (86)
• In the Social-related category, the breakdown is
as follows: Health (38 articles), Community (64),
Housing (6) and Family (15)
Economy
60
27%
Employment &
Employability
86
38%
Education
23
10%
Governance
55
25%
Governance, Education, Economy
and Employment Issues
4
Family
15
12%
Health
38
31%
Housing
6
5%
Community
64
52%
Social-related Issues
6. Education
Digital learning for all
• All secondary school students will receive a personal laptop or
tablet for learning by next year - seven years ahead of the original
target. This is one of the ways the Government, schools and the
community are working together to keep social mobility alive. (ST,
Jun 18)
Students in Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs)
• Graduates from the Institute of Technical Education (ITE),
polytechnics and universities will soon be able to apply for new
courses that offer additional professional certificates e.g. advanced
post-diploma or postgraduate certificates. (ST, Jun 12)
• Students who want to study media, arts and design at Singapore
Polytechnic (SP) will be able to try out different specialisations
before deciding on one, which was not possible previously. (ST, Jun
11)
• Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) is introducing changes in its teaching
approach that will see students work on projects that involve
several subjects and skills from the get-go, similar to what
employees in industry have to go through. (ST, Jun 10)
6
Minister Ong Ye Kung
ST
Team project at NYP
ST
7. Governance
National Ministerial Broadcasts
• In the first National Broadcast, PM Lee Hsien Loong said Singapore is still
well-positioned to play its part in international trade of the future,
despite COVID-19. It had also started to prepare for uncertainties and
transform its economy, even before the pandemic hit. (ST, Jun 8)
• Singapore needs to be prepared for more challenging times ahead and
prepare itself to live with the coronavirus for the long term, said National
Development Minister Lawrence Wong. Businesses and workers may all
have to adapt to a new normal. (ST, Jun 10)
• The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of having deep
reserves of finances, people and capabilities to respond to crises, said
Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean. (ST, Jun 11)
• Countries are retreating from globalisation in the wake of the pandemic,
but Singapore's workers and businesses can tap opportunities even in a
less connected world, said Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun
Sing. (ST, Jun 15)
7
PM Lee Hsien Loong
ST
Minister Chan Chun Sing
ST
8. Governance
National Ministerial Broadcasts
• Singapore cannot defy the global economic downturn. But it must
"absolutely defy" the loss of social cohesion, the polarisation and the
despair that are taking hold in many other countries, said Senior
Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam. (ST, Jun 18)
• In the sixth and final National Broadcast, Deputy Prime Minister
Heng Swee Keat highlighted the partnership between the
Government and the people, which has become more critical than
ever in the face of the twin threats of a pandemic and recession. (ST,
Jun 21)
Citizen consultation and General Election 2020
• To provide a platform for Singaporeans to reflect on their experiences
during the pandemic, and hear from them on potential action to
improve society, the Government will start the Emerging Stronger
Conversations series. (ST, Jun 21)
• In a televised address, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said following
the dissolution of Parliament by President Halimah Yacob, Polling
Day will be on July 10. (ST, Jun 24)
8
DPM Heng Swee Keat
ST
SM Tharman Shanmugaratnam
ST
9. Economy
National economic fundamentals
• Singapore's tax revenues have fallen owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, and
to rebuild its fiscal position, the Government will look to strengthen the
economy and make future revenue streams more resilient, said Deputy
Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat. (ST, Jun 9)
• Singapore has retained its top spot as the world's most competitive
economy, in the latest edition of the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking.
Its economic performance, tech infrastructure and education system help it
stay number one for the second year. (ST, Jun 17)
Business sentiments
• Amid gloomy economic forecasts triggered by the pandemic, infrastructure
remains a bright spot that can increase business activity and employment,
said Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Indranee Rajah. (ST, Jun 2)
• Business sentiment among companies in Singapore on what their positions
will be in the third quarter of 2020 improved slightly from their low
sentiments about the second quarter, but their outlook remains murky on
uncertainties ahead, according to a survey by the Singapore Commercial
Credit Bureau (SCCB). (ST, Jun 10)
Construction sector in Singapore
ST
Minister Indranee Rajah
ST
9
10. Employment and Employability
Support for employment amidst COVID-19
• Graduates will be able to apply for traineeships under the SGUnited
Traineeships Programme from 1 June, said Manpower Minister
Josephine Teo, with available roles spanning from marketing to social
work. (ST, Jun 1)
• The new high-level, 17-member National Jobs Council will work in the
coming months to grow jobs and training opportunities on a much
greater scale, said its chairman, Senior Minister Tharman
Shanmugaratnam. (ST, Jun 4)
• To help both fresh entrants to the job market and those who might
find themselves seeking employment as a fallout of the COVID-19
slowdown, the Government aims to set up satellite career centres in
all 24 Housing Board towns. (ST, Jun 5)
• From July 1, National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) members aged 40
and over can use up to $500 a year to defray up to half of the out-of-
pocket expenses for course fees, under the Union Training Assistance
Programme (UTAP). (ST, Jun 20)
NUS graduands
ST
Workers in CBD area
ST
10
11. Digitalisation and Technology
Support for digitalisation amidst COVID-19
• The new SG Digital Office (SDO) will recruit 1,000 digital ambassadors
to help stallholders and seniors learn how to use digital payment tools.
(ST, Jun 1)
• The COVID-19 outbreak has made clear that digitalisation is no longer
an "optional extra" but a critical necessity for individuals and
industries to survive this crisis, said Communications and Information
Minister S. Iswaran. (ST, Jun 5)
• More than 3,500 businesses started digital transformation projects
this year from January to April, supported by Enterprise Singapore
(ESG). This is nearly 20% higher than in the same period last year. (ST,
Jun 5)
• Singapore owes its current digital readiness to groundwork that
started six years ago with the roll-out of Smart Nation plans that aim
for every resident going cashless, among others, said Minister-in-
charge of the Smart Nation Initiative Vivian Balakrishnan. (ST, Jun 22) SG Digital Office to help hawkers
ST
E-payment options
ST
11
12. Social
Mediation initiative
• The SGUnited Mediation Initiative will allow the Supreme Court to identify and
refer suitable cases to the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC). There, a neutral
third-party mediator will help disputing parties achieve a mutually acceptable and
amicable resolution. (ST, Jun 1)
Helping charities and the disadvantaged
• The Vulnerable-in-the-Community Network, formed in November, comprises the
Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), Central Singapore Community
Development Council and other non-profit organisations. It provides more
coordinated and integrated support for vulnerable individuals islandwide. (ST, Jun
19)
• The VWOs-Charities Capability Fund's Info-Communications Technology Grant
will now cover digital solutions in new areas such as volunteer management,
donor management and remote working, said Minister for Culture, Community
and Youth Grace Fu. (ST, Jun 24)
• Charities are holding their fund-raisers virtually to overcome the pandemic and
its restrictions on gatherings. The Singapore Children's Society, for example, plans
to take its family fun walk and carnival, online. (ST, Jun 9)
12
Helping the disadvantaged
ST
Supreme Court
ST
13. Social
Community assistance amidst COVID-19
• About 60% of households in Singapore will be able to receive extra benefits amid
the coronavirus pandemic. These include cash assistance from the Temporary
Relief Fund, COVID-19 Support Grant and Workfare Special Payment, among
others, said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat. (ST, Jun 6)
• Up to 400,000 lower-income Singaporean households will be able to collect $50
worth of vouchers in the coming months, thanks to the Community Development
Council (CDC) Vouchers Scheme. (ST, Jun 12)
• The Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) Foundation is donating $300,000 to the
Community Chest to support seniors, disadvantaged families and the disabled,
among others, as the coronavirus crisis enters its fifth month since the first case
was reported here on Jan 23. (ST, Jun 2)
• About 1,500 households in the South East District that have been hard hit by the
Covid-19 situation will benefit from a donation of $350,000 by non-profit
organisation Business China, and an additional $50,000 from South East
Community Development Council (CDC). (ST, Jun 9)
13
Residents in the neighbourhood
ST
Residents applying for assistance
ST
14. Health ramifications of COVID-19 and dengue
• Voluntary welfare organisation We Care Community Services
swopped in-person mental health sessions for video calls, and its
physical call centre for Amazon Connect, which allowed staff to
take calls from home and connect people with counsellors. (ST,
Jun 6)
• Regional COVID-19 screening centres will be set up progressively
across Singapore to help test vulnerable groups. A contact tracing
device will also be rolled out by the end of June, said the multi-
ministry task force. (ST, Jun 9)
• Every Singaporean who needs it will have access to a COVID-19
vaccine should one become available, said National
Development Minister Lawrence Wong. (ST, Jun 10)
• Dengue cases have hit a new high, with about 200 new cases a
day and two consecutive weekly tallies that exceeded all-time
peaks. The National Environment Agency (NEA) is expecting total
infections for the year to soar past the 22,170 cases recorded in
2013. (ST, Jun 24)
Staff of We Care Community Services
ST
14
Social
COVID-19 regional screening centre
ST
15. Support for families
• To help ease the financial burden of parents who have lost their
jobs, two student care centres run by the Singapore Muslim
Women's Association (PPIS) are offering three months' worth of
student care services for free. (ST, Jun 1)
• The SG Cares Community Network initiative will proactively
reach out to 50,000 low-income families living in rental flats, to
ensure no one falls through the cracks during the pandemic. It
will link families up to the help they need. (ST, Jun 3)
• The National Population and Talent Division (NPTD) has unveiled
a new brand mark - Made for Families - for organisations to
identify themselves as promoting the value of the family in
Singapore's society. (ST, Jun 24)
• About 3,200 more Housing Board lifts across Singapore will be
enhanced with better safety features such as high-tech sensors
to monitor the lift speed and an emergency communications
system this year. (ST, Jun 9)
The SG Cares Community Network
will send out SMSes to families
ST
15
Social
Lift upgrading at an HDB block
ST
16. Malay/Muslim Community
Minister’s Hari Raya Get-Together 2020
• Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli praised the Muslim
community here for responding to disruptions brought about by the pandemic
with unity, resilience and compassion. He highlighted how Muslims donated to
the OurMasjid.sg portal to sustain mosques. (ST, Jun 6)
• Minister Masagos also announced the establishment of the Wakaf Masyarakat
Singapura (Singapore Community Wakaf) by the Islamic Religious Council of
Singapore (MUIS) to financially support Islamic religious institutions, asatizah
development and community programmes. (BH, Jun 6)
• Two advisory panels have been set up to put forth recommendations on how to
galvanise community support and operationalise the implementation of the
Wakaf Masyarakat Singapura. Both advisory panels will be chaired by Mr Abu
Bakar Mohd Nor. (BH, Jun 20)
Korban 2020
• No livestock will be imported to Singapore for Korban this year due to the
COVID-19 outbreak, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) said.
Instead, mosques in Singapore will facilitate arrangements to perform the
Korban in Australia. (BH, Jun 9) 16
Minister’s Hari Raya Get-Together
BH
OurMasjid.sg portal
MUIS
17. Malay/Muslim Community
Employment and Malay/Muslim community
• A working committee has been established to reach out to Malay/Muslim
workers affected by COVID-19. Chaired by Minister of State for Manpower and
National Development Zaqy Mohamad, the committee is made up of
representatives from M³ and Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and
Industry (SMCCI). (BH, Jun 4)
• Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli participated in an online
dialogue session titled 'Hidup Bersama COVID-19', where he urged Malay/Muslim
workers to take advantage of skills upgrading opportunities. (BH, Jun 27)
New book on Singapore Malays
• A new publication on Singapore Malays has been published. Titled 'Beyond
Bicentennial: Perspectives on Malays', the book sheds light on the contributions
of the Malay/Muslim community since precolonial times. The publication is
edited by Mr Zainul Abidin Rasheed, Mr Wan Hussin Zoohri and Dr Norshahril
Saat. (BH, Jun 27)
17
MOS Zaqy Mohamad
MCI
‘Beyond Bicentennial’ book
World Scientific