SINGAPORE, June 1 — Singapore has launched “Screen Smart from the Start” campaign, a nationwide movement to help families foster healthy digital habits from young.

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) emphasised that the movement reflects a whole-of-government commitment to supporting parents as they navigate the challenges of raising children in a digital age.

“A survey conducted last year found that only 37 per cent of parents felt confident in their ability to manage their children’s digital activities, and more than half wanted more support.

“To address this, Screen Smart from the Start brings together practical guidance, meaningful offline experiences, and strong community support,” it said in a statement on Sunday.

The campaign was launched by Singapore Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong at the fifth edition of the National Family Festival.

According to MDDI, families can visit bescreensmart.gov.sg to access the full range of resources and activities available and participate in the National Family Festival activities taking place throughout June 2026. — Bernama

SINGAPORE, June 19 — Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has called for Russia’s continued engagement in Asean-led mechanisms as the republic prepares to assume the Asean Chairmanship in 2027.

Singapore’s Foreign Ministry said Wong, who participated in the Asean-Russia Commemorative Summit (ARCS) in Kazan, Russia, welcomed Russia’s support for Asean Centrality and encouraged Moscow’s continued participation in Asean-led mechanisms, including the Asean Regional Forum and the East Asia Summit.

“Prime Minister Wong looked forward to working with Russia under Singapore’s Asean Chairmanship in 2027,” the ministry said in a statement on Friday.

Wong participated in the ARCS from June 17 to 18 at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the two leaders later met on the sidelines of the summit and exchanged views on bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments.

During the summit, Asean and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in areas of shared interest.

The foreign ministry said Wong also highlighted that Singapore and Asean had consistently called on parties involved in conflicts to exercise restraint, return to dialogue and pursue the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law. — Bernama

SINGAPORE: Singapore has offered assistance to the Philippines following a powerful earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8, leaving dozens dead and causing widespread damage.

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong has written to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to convey Singapore’s condolences for the loss of life and destruction caused by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake, the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said on June 15.

The Singapore leader also conveyed that Singapore is prepared to provide support should the Philippines require assistance.

Singapore extends its spirit of regional solidarity in times of crisis

While Singapore isn’t directly affected by earthquakes due to its geographical location, regional disasters prompt humanitarian assistance and diplomatic cooperation across Southeast Asia. Singapore extends its spirit of regional solidarity, with governments working together when communities face sudden crises.

No reports of any Singaporeans being injured by the earthquake

MFA said it is keeping a close watch on developments in the affected areas and has contacted Singaporeans who had registered their presence in the region through the ministry’s e-registration system.

At present, there are no reports of any Singaporeans being injured by the earthquake.

The ministry advised Singaporeans still in the affected areas to remain alert, especially as aftershocks are still a concern. Singaporeans who have travelled to the Philippines were urged to follow instructions from local authorities and take precautions to protect their safety.

Advice for Singaporean travellers to/in the Philippines

MFA strongly encouraged Singaporeans travelling to or staying in the Philippines to register with the ministry and obtain comprehensive travel insurance before their trips. Those requiring consular assistance can contact the Singapore Embassy in Manila or the MFA’s 24-hour Duty Office:

Singapore Embassy in Manila

505 Rizal Drive, Bonifacio Global City

1634 Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Tel: +63 2 8856 9922/+63 917 860 4740 (emergencies)

Email: singemb_mnl@mfa.sg

MFA Duty Office Tel +65 6379 8800 / 8855 (24-hour hotline)

Email: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

The earthquake has once again underscored the importance of emergency preparedness, especially for travellers visiting regions prone to natural disasters.

For many Singaporeans, the event is also a reminder that while disasters may occur beyond our shores, regional support and timely communication remain vital when lives and livelihoods are affected.

As neighbours in Southeast Asia, helping one another during difficult times is one of the region’s strongest traditions, and it continues to matter when disaster strikes.

This article (‘Singapore stands ready to assist’ — PM Lawrence Wong expresses ‘condolences on tragic loss of lives and destruction caused by earthquake in Philippines’) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News.