SINGAPORE: A woman has come under fire online after describing her own boyfriend as “unromantic” for not surprising her with “just because” flowers.

In a post shared on the r/sgdatingscene subreddit on Saturday (Apr 25), she opened up about wanting more spontaneous and thoughtful gestures in her relationship. She said that, as a woman, she hopes her boyfriend would occasionally do things like buy her flowers for no particular reason, pick up small gifts simply because he was thinking of her, or make last-minute plans just because he wanted to see her.

“I wish my boyfriend could buy me just-because flowers,” she wrote. “It sucks to date an unromantic guy.”

According to her, this was not an unspoken expectation or something she had kept to herself. She shared that she had already told her boyfriend directly that she wished he would be “more romantic” and had made it clear that she loves receiving flowers. Despite that, she said there had been little to no change in his behaviour.

After laying out her frustrations, she turned to the online community for their views, asking, “Is romance dead? Ladies/men, what are your thoughts/experiences on this issue of mine?”

“To me, this is just some dopamine, which will fade over time.”

 In the discussion thread, one Singaporean pointed out that romance is not a one-size-fits-all approach and can show up in different ways. “Romance comes in different languages and can be expressed differently,” they wrote. “Also, have you done the same for him?”

Another female user chimed in, saying that the post author “should not jump to conclusions” because her boyfriend might just be busy.

“Sometimes they are so caught up with work, exhaustion, problems in life, etc., that such thoughts don’t come by, especially when daily life is quite overwhelming for most people. Maybe you bring him flowers instead as a surprise, because men don’t generally get flowers as compared to us girls. It’s quite sad, actually.”

A third pointed out, “Just because flowers are supposed to be just because flowers, just because gifts are supposed to be just because gifts. If you’re expecting them, then it’s not just because it already is, is it? Yes, it will be nice to receive, but you can’t complain if you don’t. Because if you do, then to you it’s clearly not just because already. Romance is not dead. Your expectation/idea of romance might be.”

A fourth user commented, “In my opinion, you’re probably kind of ‘young’ in the relationship. To me, this is just some dopamine, which will fade over time. I am not judging you. A mature relationship will find romantic moments through small little things in the relationship. It’s probably good to let him know what you really love. If he still cannot fulfill, you already know the answer. Good luck!”

In response to all the criticism, the post author said: “Thank you for all the different perspectives, guys. Gift-wise on my part, I do all the things I’ve said I want to be reciprocated with. I did the communication and the action already.”

In other news, questions over whether children owe their parents financial transparency have resurfaced after a 28-year-old woman said her decision to withhold her salary left her parents “upset.”

Writing on the r/asksg forum, she shared that her parents had long made a habit of asking about her pay whenever she started a new job.

Read more: ‘My parents got upset when I refused to share my salary’: 28-year-old sets boundary and seeks advice online

This article (‘Is romance dead?’ Woman slammed after calling BF unromantic over ‘just-because’ flowers) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

SINGAPORE: Weighing in on the controversy over the lack of Halal certification for Singapore Airlines’ Muslim meals, former People’s Action Party politician Amrin Amin has admitted that there is “no perfect solution” while urging people to refrain from labelling those with concerns.

The controversy erupted after a netizen asked whether SIA reheats Muslim meals in the same ovens it uses for non-Halal fare. The national carrier clarified that its Muslim meals are not halal-certified, despite being prepared using ingredients sourced from halal-certified suppliers. Attributing the lack of certification to onboard handling procedures, the airline acknowledged that meals are reheated alongside other dishes in shared ovens, and that serviceware is not separated by meal type.

As criticism mounted online, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) noted in a statement that food labelled “not halal-certified” does not necessarily mean it is non-halal.

The council explained that Muslim meals on SIA flights departing Singapore are prepared in halal-certified kitchens before being loaded onto aircraft, and that onboard processes involve reheating and handling rather than cooking.

MUIS added that airlines typically have measures in place to reduce the risk of cross-mixing, such as sealed packaging and appropriate handling procedures. It encouraged passengers to check with airlines directly if they have concerns, and suggested bringing their own food as an alternative if needed.

Amid the debate, Mr Amrin said he understands why the issue has elicited strong reactions, but asked those weighing in to avoid labelling those who have raised concerns.

He was referring to a viral post by interfaith advocate Mohamed Imran Mohamed Taib, who had said the issue was “frankly, embarrassing” to him as a Muslim.

Mr Imran drew a distinction between inclusivity and entitlement, arguing that SIA’s provision of Muslim meal options reflects inclusivity, while insisting that halal certification crosses into entitlement. He noted that the airline had already made clear that its ingredients are sourced from halal-certified suppliers.

“To further question this is no longer a question of food but one’s attitude and trust,” he wrote, adding that Muslim passengers who remain uncertain can choose not to consume the meals.

He also criticised calls for separate microwaves for halal and non-halal food, describing such demands as “annoyingly puritanical”, “misplaced” and “ignorant”.

Disagreeing with such labels, Mr Amrin wrote, “I have read various views, and I feel it is not helpful to label people as ‘entitled’ or ‘puritanical’ simply because they ask for more assurance. For many, this comes from sincere religious conviction, not from a desire to make demands.

“At the same time, we should be clear about what SIA is saying. A ‘Muslim meal’ on SIA is prepared without pork, lard or alcohol, and the ingredients are obtained from halal-certified suppliers. That is a meaningful level of assurance. It may not meet every individual threshold, but it is not without basis.”

Mr Amrin also highlighted the operational realities airlines face, noting that aircraft cabins are “constrained environments” where food is prepared on the ground, loaded onto flights and reheated onboard. Given these limitations, he said, there are practical limits to what can be done during a flight.

Drawing comparisons with other dietary requirements, he noted that SIA also provides kosher meals, which are prepared and sealed by certified kitchens before being loaded onto aircraft. In such cases, assurance is derived largely from sourcing and packaging on the ground, rather than from having separate equipment onboard.

He suggested that similar approaches could help balance different needs in a shared environment. These may include using sealed or double-wrapped meals to minimise the risk of contamination during reheating, offering cold meal options that do not require heating, or allowing passengers to use disposable utensils or bring their own.

“Accommodation is possible, but it has to be practical,” he said, adding that such measures reflect how airlines manage diverse dietary requirements within operational constraints.

Mr Amrin also noted that these issues are not unique to air travel, pointing out that similar challenges arise on the ground in shared catering environments. Efforts to accommodate one group’s dietary needs, he said, can sometimes raise concerns for others with different religious requirements, making it difficult to draw clear lines in a diverse society.

Ultimately, he said, “there is no perfect solution”, encouraging a balanced approach where individuals make choices based on their own comfort levels. Passengers who are satisfied with the available assurances can opt for the meals provided, while those who are not may consider alternatives such as bringing their own food or abstaining.

Calling for a more constructive tone, Mr Amrin said the conversation should continue “calmly and respectfully”, with recognition of good-faith efforts on all sides while allowing space for differing perspectives.

This article (Ex-PAP MP admits there’s ‘no perfect solution’ as SIA confirms Muslim meals are not halal-certified) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

SINGAPORE: In the sphere of vending machines, getting a couple of spritzes of designer perfume is just the latest in a long line of unusual products.

Hey, visitors to Singapore are still thrilled to get freshly-squeezed orange juice, and marvel that they can get luxury cars, Japanese cakes in cans, tele-consultations, and hot meals from vending machines.

But let’s talk perfumes, shall we?

Last month, machines from a company called Scentphony at the Marina Square, Downtown East and Bukit Panjang Plaza shopping centers introduced vending machines where you can get two sprays of designer perfume for the extremely reasonable price of S$1.

There will be five types of scents in each vending machine, and scents will appear in rotation. But right now, what’s available are the following: Jo Malone London’s English Pear & Freesia Cologne, Roja’s Burlington 1819, Dior’s Sauvage, Nishane’s Wulóng Chá, and Maison Margiela’s Replica From The Garden.

Perfect for this summer, right? You might be all hot and sweaty after a day’s work, and your colleagues suggest a get-together, but you’re no longer at your freshest. Well, Scentphony may end up being your next best friend.

The process could not be simpler, according to this video. Just simply walk up to the vending machine, use the touch screen to choose the scent you like, utilise any of the convenient payment systems, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, and there you have it, two spritzes of your perfume of choice, and you’re ready for your evening.

The machine carries a warning for users not to bring their faces, especially their eyes, too close to the spray dispensers, which appear to be at around neck or chest level, depending on a person’s height.

Singapore is not the only place where you can get an instant refresh from a vending machine. They’ve been spotted in a few locations across the globe, including some of Miami’s hotspots and clubs in the US, in airports and fashion retail space in Europe, and at high-end malls in the Middle East, where the fragrance culture is strong. Like Singapore, they’ve also been rolled out experimentally in Japan and South Korea.

Would you use a perfume vending machine? /TISG

Read also: ‘Doctor in a vending machine’ at Tampines Shell station offers free teleconsultation, 24-7 medicine and even digital MC

This article (You can now buy designer perfume for S$1 from vending machines in Singapore) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

MALAYSIA: In a country that has embraced digitalisation, cashless transactions, and artificial intelligence, Malaysia’s night market (also known as pasar malam) and hawker culture might appear outdated at first glance. Yet in 2026, they remain deeply relevant not in spite of economic pressures, but because of them.

These informal markets continue to function as both an economic safety net and a social anchor for communities navigating rising living costs and uncertain employment conditions.

While national discourse often focuses on high-growth industries and macroeconomic performance, the lived reality for many Malaysians tells a more complex story. Even with moderate growth projections, cost-of-living pressures remain persistent.

In this environment, pasar malam and hawker stalls provide an essential form of everyday relief. Affordable meals such as nasi lemak and char kuey teow allow households to manage daily expenses without relying on higher-cost commercial dining. For students and lower-income groups, these are not lifestyle choices but necessities.

At the same time, these spaces play a critical economic role. For many in the B40 and lower M40 groups, hawking is not merely supplemental income but a primary livelihood.

Low entry barriers allow individuals to start small, test ideas, and gradually build income stability. In a labour market increasingly shaped by automation and structural change, this flexibility provides an important alternative to formal employment.

As noted by Bernama, more Malaysians are turning to small-scale food vending and informal trade as a response to economic strain and limited wage growth.

Public sentiment, however, reflects tension rather than consensus. Online discussions on Reddit frequently highlight rising prices, with users remarking that “RM10 is the new RM6” and describing pasar malam as “no longer what it used to, now it’s just expensive.”

Some question whether it is still worth visiting at all. Yet these criticisms are often followed by a different reality, many still return, albeit less frequently, saying they go “just to jalan-jalan” or out of nostalgia.

This contradiction is important; it shows that relevance has not disappeared, but shifted from affordability alone to experience, familiarity, and cultural attachment.

Insights from the Khazanah Research Institute reinforce this evolution, framing pasar malam as community ecosystems rather than purely transactional spaces. They sustain social interaction, preserve food heritage, and reflect everyday Malaysian life in ways that modern retail environments often cannot replicate.

Ultimately, pasar malam in 2026 persists because they adapt. They are no longer defined solely by low prices, but by their ability to meet both economic needs and emotional continuity. This raises an important question about whether municipal policies are doing enough to preserve and support these informal spaces, given their growing role in livelihood resilience and community life.

This article (Beyond the price tag: Why the pasar malam remains Malaysia’s greatest social anchor) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

SINGAPORE: Finally landing a job after months of sending applications felt incredibly rewarding for one Singaporean, who went online to share their experience and the lessons they picked up along the way.

In a post on the r/NUS subreddit on Tuesday (Mar 28), they wrote, “Honestly, I am just feeling super blessed and fortunate to secure something before grad. Just wanted to share this because I finally signed an offer today. For a while, it felt like it wasn’t going to happen at all, especially after hearing so many horror stories from friends about being unemployed for an indefinite amount of time.”

They shared that they began job hunting in December 2025 and initially felt “optimistic” because they had a referral and believed finding a role would be easier. However, the company eventually ghosted them. “There was no news at all.”

According to the Singaporean, the experience triggered a great deal of anxiety. “That kicked off a super anxious 5-month grind. If you have ever refreshed your email every day just to see nothing, or if you ever received an interview invitation but have not heard back since, you know the feeling. I am just really glad I managed to pull through.”

Things they learned from the process

Looking back, they said there were a few things that greatly helped them secure a job offer.

One was “being selective, but still consistent.” Instead of sending out applications everywhere, they focused on roles that actually matched their strengths and interests and kept at it steadily.

“I did not spam hundreds of applications. I tried to be quite selective with where I applied, and I made sure the job scope was something that aligned with my strengths and interests.”

They also tracked every application in an Excel sheet.

“I kept an Excel sheet for every single application. It helps so much with the mental clutter. Seeing it laid out helps you realise when a company has likely ghosted you, so you can mentally move on instead of waiting forever. Personal experience told me that there is no exception.”

Moreover, they learned not to be too complacent. This, they wrote, was “the biggest lesson” for them.

“Reaching Round 3 or Round 4 feels like you are almost there, but in this market, it does not mean anything until the contract is signed. I had two that went all the way to Round 3 and Round 4 and still ended up with no news. Keep searching and applying until that offer is concrete. Never stop just because a final interview went well.”

How they prepared for interviews

When it came to interviews, they kept their approach straightforward. Read the job description properly, think about how your past experience connects to the role, and be ready to talk about it in a clear, honest way.

“Figure out how to demonstrate your strengths via personal experience, like internships or schoolwork,” they said. “Do not overprepare the interview. You can align the job description with your strengths, but overpreparing will eat into your confidence.”

They also discouraged relying heavily on scripted responses or AI-generated answers. They said interviews are like “presentations,” and if you forget a memorised line, it can make you anxious and affect your performance.

They encouraged candidates to speak more naturally and just have at least one thoughtful question ready to ask during the interview. 

At the end of their post, they shared a message for job seekers:

“To those who already got your offers, huge congrats. But to those who are still in the trenches and seeking, please, please, please do not give up. I know it is soul-crushing when the No News pile keeps growing, but it really only takes one Yes to change the whole map. I am rooting for you all. Happy to answer any questions if you are curious about specific stages!”

Read also: Singaporeans share the ‘final straw’ that made them quit their job without a backup plan

This article (Singaporean lands job offer after 5 stressful months, shares ‘key takeaways’ for fellow jobseekers) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

MALAYSIA: From stamp books to QR codes, Malaysia’s saving habits have shifted from discipline to convenience. Chief Statistician Mohd Uzir Mahidin warns that digital payments erode restraint while fueling impulsive spending. He stresses savings must begin early, even modestly, to withstand inflation. Technology changes, but discipline remains vital—without control, surplus income risks disappearing.

Social media users agreed that the time has changed. However, they say salaries have yet to keep up with the change. More than a third of Malaysian professionals are dissatisfied with their pay, reflecting stagnant wage growth and rising career mobility, according to the 2026 Hays Asia Salary Guide. 

The survey found 37% unhappy with salaries, slightly below Asia’s 44% average. About 27% received no raise last year, while 3% faced cuts, yet optimism is emerging: only 11% expect no increase in 2026, compared with 40% regionally. 

On X, one argued that salaries in 2026 remain virtually unchanged from 2006, exposing a fundamental flaw in wage distribution, highlighting the absence of significant pay growth over two decades and criticising such claims for overlooking the current realities faced by workers.

Further comments regarding wage stagnation continue. One user noted that three decades ago, basic salaries for average jobs stood at RM1,800 (S$576) — and today, they remain largely unchanged, especially outside Kuala Lumpur. He added that blaming QR payment methods for Malaysians’ lack of savings misrepresents reality, as the deeper issue lies in persistent wage stagnation.

Another added that there isn’t a massive difference between spending physical cash and spending through QR payment. Making payments via QR will not be possible if one’s bank account is empty.

Others argue that policies such as nine‑year car loans encourage younger Malaysians to spend beyond their means. He adds that social media influence further drives excessive consumption, pushing the younger generation to spend more than necessary.

The issue of wage stagnation is not unique to Malaysia — it has become a global conversation. From the United States to Europe and across much of Southeast Asia, salaries have remained largely flat for decades despite rising costs of living.

This article (The price of convenience: QR payment might be hurting Malaysians’ saving habits) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

SINGAPORE: After a social media user expressed a concern about whether the Muslim meals on Singapore Airlines flights are truly halal, the airline clarified the issue, and the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) also addressed public concerns.

Former Sembawang Member of Parliament (MP) Amrin Amin has weighed in as well, saying that he understands the strong reactions the issue has drawn but added that there is no “perfect solution” to the matter.

Mr Amrin, a former member of the People’s Action Party (PAP), wrote in an April 30 (Thursday) Facebook post that “Faith, food, and travel are matters close to our hearts.”

He warned, however, against unfairly characterising those who voice concerns, writing, “I have read various views, and I feel it is not helpful to label people as ‘entitled’ or ‘puritanical’ simply because they ask for more assurance. For many, this comes from sincere religious conviction, not from a desire to make demands.”

The issue began after a poster on Threads, understood to be a Malaysian national, asked on April 20 if the Muslim meals on SIA are heated in the same ovens as those that contain pork. She explained that she asked the question because her flight on a Middle Eastern airline had been cancelled, and she was looking for options. She was told by commenters familiar with the process that halal meals are heated in different ovens when possible; otherwise, they are heated in the same ovens as non-halal meals.

Since then, SIA said that its Muslim meals are prepared without pork, lard, and alcohol, with ingredients sourced from halal-certified suppliers. It clarified, however, that the meals are not halal-certified, due to the serviceware used, and that the meals are reheated in the same ovens used for other meals.

MUIS, meanwhile, reiterated that the main issue is not with the food itself but is mainly in handling and reheating onboard, and emphasised that “not halal-certified” doesn’t automatically mean non-halal. Moreover, if they are uncertain, passengers should check beforehand or bring their own food.

On his part, Mr Amin further explained the challenges of an aeroplane’s “constrained environment,” writing that “there are limits to what can realistically be done mid-air,” and noted how SIA prepares kosher meals, which are prepared and sealed by certified kitchens before they are loaded onboard

“The assurance comes mainly from sourcing and packaging on the ground, rather than from having separate equipment in the air. It is one example of how airlines work within practical limits while trying to meet different needs,” he wrote, adding that meals may even be double-wrapped to ensure there would be no contamination while reheating. Otherwise, passengers may choose options such as cold meals that don’t need to be reheated.

As for cutlery, Mr Amin also said that travellers may bring their own, even disposable ones, for their use.

“These are small but practical ways to manage different needs within the same space,” he wrote, adding that this is an “ongoing conversation… one best had calmly and respectfully.”

“Different groups have their own dietary considerations, and shared catering environments are not always able to meet every standard fully. These are not easy lines to draw in a diverse society.

In the end, there is no perfect solution.

If the meal meets your comfort level, go ahead. If it does not, you can choose another option, bring your own food where possible, or simply give it a miss.

We can acknowledge good-faith efforts on both sides, and still make space for different comfort levels,” he added. /TISG

Read also: Man criticised for looking for halal food in IKEA Alexandra asks if it’s wrong to ask questions

This article (Former PAP MP warns against labelling people as ‘entitled’ or ‘puritanical’ on issue of halal food on SIA flights) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

SINGAPORE: The tears Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong shed as he delivered his Labour Day speech failed to land with a large segment of Singaporeans online, with many characterising the show of emotion as “crocodile tears” or “wayang”.

Speaking at the May Day Rally on May 1, PM Wong told members of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) that the government stands ready to act decisively to support Singaporeans through what he described as a gathering “storm”. He pointed to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and stressed that Singapore’s unity will be key to navigating this period of mounting uncertainty.

He also characterised the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) as another major force reshaping the global landscape and cautioned that while some jobs are set to evolve or disappear altogether at a speed not seen before, new and better opportunities will emerge as the economy transforms. While not every job can be preserved, he said, every worker will be supported.

The Prime Minister also pointed to recent efforts to bring Singaporeans home at the onset of the Middle East crisis as an example of the nation’s commitment to its people, and it was at this point that he began to grow emotional.

While sharing how swift action had been taken to assist citizens stranded overseas, Mr Wong began reading excerpts from a message written by Nisar Keshvani, a Singaporean who had returned on a repatriation flight.

Mr Keshvani had written, “As the RSAF aircraft carried us home that night, the words’ Welcome home’ meant something entirely new. They were not just a greeting. They were a promise. That wherever Singaporeans may be in the world, our nation will look after its own. And that is a promise worth protecting — generation after generation.”

Shortly into the reading, Mr Wong’s voice faltered, and he appeared overcome with emotion. He paused to take a sip of water before continuing, but struggled again moments later. Leaning on the rostrum with tears in his eyes, he was met with applause from the audience.

After composing himself, the PM continued reading the message, though he paused once more before finishing. Closing his address, Mr Wong reaffirmed, “Whether it is an energy crisis, or the AI revolution — we will look after our own. No Singaporean will be left behind.”

While the members of the labour movement were empathetic as the PM broke down, Singaporeans online were not so impressed. One commenter, who received almost 500 likes on Facebook, quipped, “He teared today only, we tear every day.”

Another netizen pointed to the PM’s generous pay packet and said, “With tears in his eyes, bank account full with millions.” The Singapore premier is widely considered to be the highest-paid world leader across the globe.

One netizen, referring to the high cost of living in Singapore in a comment that garnered close to 300 likes, wrote, “I also tear when I see the COE at $118K.” Someone else agreed, writing, “I can understand how he felt, that overwhelming emotion…I feel that too when I see the COE price going up and up.”

Another commenter wrote, “I’m also in tears, HDB flat costs millions.”

Quite a number of netizens online sarcastically lauded the PM for his “great acting,” “wayang,” and “crocodile tears,” suggesting that they did not find the display to be genuine.

One commenter wrote, “I swear PAP is some sort of Performing Arts Party,” while others compared him to Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, saying, “Our LKY only cried once. It’s something you shouldn’t use easily.”

This is not the first time Mr Wong has shed tears in public. In Parliament in 2020, he became emotional and broke down while thanking frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This article (‘We cry everyday’ — Singaporeans roll their eyes at PM’s tears during Labour Day speech) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

SINGAPORE: A Singaporean woman has sparked conversation online after opening up about her worries that her 60-year-old mother may never be granted Singapore citizenship, despite spending much of her life in Singapore and raising a family here.

On Thursday (May 30), she shared her concerns on the r/askSingapore forum, hoping to hear from others who may have gone through similar situations or know of successful cases.

In her post, she explained that the rest of her immediate family are already Singapore citizens.

“My dad (her husband) is a 4th-gen Singaporean. My mum is Chinese, my siblings and I are all citizens since birth. I’m about to start work soon, with decent pay considering I’m a fresh grad,” she wrote.

She then asked other Singaporeans if her mother would realistically still stand a chance at citizenship at her age.

“What are the odds of a successful application when she’s in her early 60s, because I have to work for 1 year before applying? Do you know anyone who managed to get citizenship at this age?”

The woman also highlighted several factors she believes could strengthen her mother’s application. Her parents have been married for more than 30 years, all of her children are Singapore citizens, and one of her siblings, who has since passed away, was a government scholar. She also shared that her mother volunteers regularly at the community club.

According to the daughter, her mother had actually been offered Singapore citizenship many years ago but was unable to complete the process because of personal circumstances at the time.

“She was offered Singapore citizenship many decades ago, but she was in an abusive relationship back then, and the boyfriend locked her documents up so she couldn’t get SC.”

In a follow-up comment, the woman shared more details about her mother’s current financial situation, though she was unsure whether these factors would affect the application outcome.

“I just remembered that she has a rental that she gets monthly. It’s about ~S$6k, and she has a small admin role in my family’s company, so she does have CPF contributions.” 

“But it’s nowhere near a real full-time job’s salary, so I never remember it. Not sure if rental is considered income? My dad has also contributed to her CPF so she can get the max monthly amount from CPF when she turns 70 or some age.”

“I think the rejection would be an issue.”

In the discussion thread, one Singaporean Redditor commented that the process is “unfortunately a black box,” adding that nobody can say for certain who will eventually be granted citizenship.

They added, “I’ve seen people living here for years and never get it. The quota for Chinese is higher, but people are more likely to get it if [they’re] younger, from what I heard.”

Another Redditor shared a similar case involving their own relative.

“My aunt had the exact same profile as your mom: married SC, both children also SC. The max she could get was PR, and this happened more than 10 years ago, when the immigration rule was not as strict as now, so I think your mom’s chance to get SC is very slim.”

Some commenters were even more pessimistic, with one bluntly saying her age could work against her application.

“No, she won’t get it. That is because she is already 60… a burden to Singapore’s tax and healthcare systems. That is one of the many unfortunate realities of living in Singapore. And even if she gets Singapore citizenship, she will suffer a lot here. High cost of healthcare will bankrupt her or, worse, the entire family.”

A fourth added, “I think [the rejection] would be an issue. To the Singapore government, I offered you SC so many times, but you didn’t want it. Why should I give you SC anymore?”

Despite the discouraging responses, several Redditors still advised the family to apply, saying there was no harm in trying.

To offer a little hope, one user shared, “It’s possible. My mother-in-law was Malaysian, married to a Singaporean, but never applied for citizenship until they retired. She got it within a year.”

Another commented, “My parents got their citizenship at 60+ (mum) and 70+ (dad). Dad is not working. Mum still works as a nurse. They’ve got 4 kids, all who are citizens.” 

“I was the latest of my siblings to convert, at 40+, 20 years after serving my NS and reservice obligations. So it’s possible but really depends on the family unit and contributions to the country.”

In other news, a 37-year-old man shared on Reddit that he feels conflicted after his girlfriend suggested reducing the S$5,000 allowance he gives his elderly parents while still expecting at least S$10,000 a month from him.

In his post on the r/asksg forum, he said he has never been married and has been dating his 32-year-old girlfriend, who is divorced with two children, for five years.

Read more: Singapore man says girlfriend wants parents’ allowance cut while taking $10K from him monthly

This article (‘What are the odds?’ — Daughter worries 60-year-old mum may never get Singapore citizenship) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

SINGAPORE: Rising prices of everyday goods and services are an indicator that the current oil shock will be harder on Asia than the one that took place in the 1970s, according to a Bloomberg opinion piece.

Its author, David Fickling, included a list across different countries in the region that shows how higher oil prices are being felt by Asians, including the price of ramen in Japan.

All this began just two months ago, when the United States and Israel started bombing Iran. This resulted in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for around 20% of the world’s fuel supply, a majority of which was bound for Asian countries. This has led to the government’s dealing with surging oil prices and the scramble to ensure an adequate supply for domestic needs.

The energy shock has led to higher input costs, which have meant an increase in everyday prices.

Soup and bathhouses

Mr Fickling gave the example of soup in both Korea and Japan. As inflation rose to 2.2% in March, the price of a bowl of traditional noodle soup in Seoul called kalguksu reached 10,000 won (around S$8.65) for the first time.

In Japan, where people already had to deal with food prices that were 6.8% higher last year, the price of ramen is approaching a “psychologically important” threshold of 1,000 yen (around S$8.13).

Moreover, “low-cost public bathhouses are facing tighter margins, squeezed between the rising cost of heating oil and government-regulated prices,” he added.

Ironically, at a time when many travellers are choosing Asian carriers, including Singapore Airlines, to bypass Middle East flight companies whose services have been disrupted by the war, Asian airlines have had to raise their prices somewhat substantially, due to the soaring price of jet fuel. 

As a result, the number of flights is being cut, while ticket prices are seeing surcharges of hundreds of dollars.

Aside from these, there have been negative effects on transport livelihoods in the Philippines because of higher fuel prices, agriculture in India due to higher fertiliser prices, as well as hours-long power outages in Pakistan, resulting in a decline in the quality of living.

Mr Fickling is not the only person warning about the dire effects of the Middle East war on Asia. Reuters pointed out in an article earlier this week how Thailand’s rice farmers are feeling the effect of fertiliser prices that are now as much as 40% more expensive, raising production costs by a third.

In Indonesia, meanwhile, the drop in rice production may be higher than 10% this year, and the expected Super El Niño from midyear onward is likely to exacerbate matters. In March, the country saw a 3.4% rise in food inflation, with sharper spikes for specific staples such as rice, cooking oil, and eggs. /TISG 

Read also: How Asia’s widespread fuel shock will also affect the US 

This article (Rising ramen prices in Japan signal Asia hit harder by oil shock than the 1970s, says Bloomberg) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

SINGAPORE: An interfaith advocate has weighed in on the way Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) handles Muslim in-flight meals, describing complaints about reheating practices as “embarrassing.”

The discussion was sparked after SIA clarified that its Muslim meals are not halal-certified, despite being prepared using ingredients sourced from halal-certified suppliers. The airline attributed the lack of certification to onboard handling procedures.

The issue first emerged on April 20, when a social media user questioned whether Muslim meals were reheated in the same ovens as dishes containing pork. In response, an SIA spokesperson said the airline’s Muslim meal options are prepared without pork, lard, or alcohol and that all ingredients are obtained from halal-certified sources.

However, the airline acknowledged that meals are reheated alongside other dishes in shared ovens, and that serviceware is not separated by meal type.

Several individuals identifying themselves as current or former cabin crew members joined the debate online, confirming that halal and non-halal meals are typically heated together. They added that Muslim and Kosher meals are usually handled with some distinction, often placed on the top rack of the oven.

Passengers requiring Muslim meals are advised to request them at least 24 hours before departure through SIA’s special meals option.

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) also addressed the issue via its HalalSG platform, noting that food labelled “not halal-certified” does not necessarily mean it is non-halal. The council explained that Muslim meals on SIA flights departing Singapore are prepared in halal-certified kitchens before being loaded onto aircraft, and that onboard processes involve reheating and handling rather than cooking.

MUIS added that airlines typically have measures in place to reduce the risk of cross-mixing, such as sealed packaging and appropriate handling procedures. It encouraged passengers to check with airlines directly if they have concerns, and suggested bringing their own food as an alternative if needed.

Amid the debate, Mohamed Imran Mohamed Taib, founder director of the Dialogue Centre and vice-chairperson of the Centre for Interfaith Understanding, shared his views in a Facebook post on April 30. He described the controversy as unnecessary and said the issue was “frankly, embarrassing” to him as a Muslim.

Mr Imran drew a distinction between inclusivity and entitlement, arguing that SIA’s provision of Muslim meal options reflects inclusivity, while insisting that halal certification crosses into entitlement. He noted that the airline had already made clear that its ingredients are sourced from halal-certified suppliers.

“To further question this is no longer a question of food but one’s attitude and trust,” he wrote, adding that Muslim passengers who remain uncertain can choose not to consume the meals.

He also criticised calls for separate microwaves for halal and non-halal food, describing such demands as “annoyingly puritanical,” “misplaced,” and “ignorant”.

Mr Imran’s post drew significant attention online, with many netizens expressing support. Some commenters emphasised the importance of coexistence, with one noting that people “cannot live in ethnic or religious bubbles”, while another highlighted that food consumption is ultimately a personal choice.

Others, however, took a different view. One commenter argued that consumers are entitled to seek what they believe is best for them and that it is reasonable to expect airlines to adopt appropriate processes. Another questioned whether Muslim concerns were being unfairly scrutinised.

In response, Mr Imran maintained that not all requests are problematic, but said criticism is warranted when demands are, in his view, unreasonable or based on misunderstanding.

This article (‘Embarassing’: Interfaith advocate shares his thoughts on demands that SIA Muslim meals be halal-certified) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.

MALAYSIA: As scammers are known to depend on speed to deceive potential victims by rushing, confusing, and pushing for fast action, this playbook, however, starts to fall apart when someone refuses to play along and starts asking investigative questions.

Police in Penang say one behaviour pattern keeps showing up among Malaysians of Indian ethnicity who tend to ask more questions, which scammers say they eventually give up on their criminal pursuit. According to The Rakyat Post (TRP) in an April 28 report, this habit has made Indians less likely to fall victim compared with other ethnic groups.

Penang Commercial Crime Investigation Department deputy chief DSP Pang Meng Tuck shared that the arrested scammers themselves pointed out that when faced with detailed questioning by targeted victims, the scammers’ stories crack, so they lose control of the conversation and decide to move on to easier targets.

Instead of reacting, they respond calmly with steady questioning

Usually, scammers rely on creating panic in victims, such as a fake kidnapping of a family member, a frozen bank account notice, a sudden “urgent” request from a friend and/or even made-up emergencies of some kind.

In such panic-infused situations, some targeted victims, instead of reacting, respond calmly with steady questioning, such as asking who was involved, where it happened, when it took place, and why it is happening.

That line of investigative questioning forces scammers to improvise, but the more they talk, the more inconsistencies appear, so eventually, their acting collapses. According to Malaysia Sin Chew (MYSinChew), police say this calm questioning process disrupts the core tactic of scams, which is to push victims into fast decisions without asking too many questions.

Reacting vs Responding

Police data from Penang shows Indian victims are targeted just as with any other ethnicity, but Indians are less likely to be successfully deceived. This distinction then redirects scammers’ focus from “who gets targeted” to “how people react/respond.”

The lesson learned here is that calm thinking and responding beat emotional reaction and irrational actions.

Nevertheless, this case data doesn’t mean that all Indian Malaysians are completely safe from scams. They just fall for them less than usual. Police say every ethnic group still faces risk regardless, as scam tactics keep evolving, so staying alert matters for everyone.

Women are still heavily affected by romance scams

The same police briefing also pointed to another scam trend, whereby romance parcel scams still affect women more than men.

In the 2024 Penang data, there were 57 female victims compared with 17 male victims. Police believe some men may not report such cases due to embarrassment.

These scams play on loneliness or financial temptation, drawing victims into long conversations before asking for money.

Ethnicity vs Mindset

Beyond ethnicity, scam prevention is more about mindset: the strongest defence against scams is how one reacts or responds under pressure. Asking questions does three things:

• It slows the situation down
• It exposes weak details
• It gives you time to verify

The actions above alone can be enough to stop a scam.

Treating every urgent request as unproven until it has been fully investigated

Authorities continue to remind the public to verify unknown calls, avoid sharing personal or banking details, and report suspicious contact.

There is no need for complex tools or expert knowledge to prevent being scammed. Just a little pause and a few basic questions can change the outcome. As scammers look for speedy action, denying them that demand means the advantage becomes yours instead of theirs.

A practical approach is to treat every urgent request as unproven until it has been fully investigated. Call back through official channels. Speak to someone you know. Take a moment to breathe and think carefully before making any rash decisions.

That small delay can be the difference between losing money and keeping it.

This article (Police: Scammers give up trying to scam Indian Malaysians because they ask too many questions) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.