Valid Entry Permit (VEP) required before Singapore Arrival Card
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority said that from Oct 6, the system will check the vehicle’s VEP status in advance, allowing motorists to resolve problems before travelling through Woodlands or Tuas.
Vehicles without valid permits may be turned away or seized. From Nov 2, VEP applications and renewals will also be rejected for vehicles with unpaid fines. Motorists are advised to settle outstanding fines before applying or renewing their permits through LTA’s OneMotoring platform.
Heavy rain triggers flash flood warnings
Heavy rain on Sept 22 caused flash floods in parts of Bukit Timah and pushed Singapore’s temperature down to 22 deg C. Flooding affected sections of King’s Road and Coronation Road before subsiding later that day. PUB issued several flash-flood risk alerts and advised the public to avoid multiple locations, including Gul Circle, Cluny Park Road and Punggol Way.
The National Environment Agency had forecast heavy rain through the afternoon and evening. The Meteorological Service also expects more showers in the second half of September compared with the earlier part of the month.
Malaysian man arrested over scam syndicate
A 27-year-old Malaysian man, identified by the nickname “Da Xiang”, was arrested after being accused of masterminding a scam and money-laundering syndicate operating in Singapore. Malaysian police arrested him on Sept 22 before handing him to Singapore authorities.
Police allege he recruited and coordinated Malaysian runners involved in government official impersonation scams, including arranging ATM withdrawals and collecting gold from victims. He is believed to have helped launder at least $500,000 in illicit proceeds. He is expected to face charges relating to criminal conspiracy and could receive imprisonment and a fine if convicted.
Srisun Express faces charges over unpaid CPF
Prata chain Srisun Express Food Holding’s representative appeared in court over about $30,000 in unpaid Central Provident Fund contributions owed to six employees for January 2026. The company was given four weeks to repay the remaining amount, which stood at $23,000 as of Sept 23. The company representative said that it will pay by the deadline given.
Founder Jayanthi Elan Goven said business has been slow, despite hopes that sales would improve after the first half of the year.
Singapore to develop new mRNA vaccines
Singapore plans to develop and produce mRNA influenza vaccines as part of efforts to strengthen pandemic preparedness. Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung said building the ability to develop and manufacture vaccines would help Singapore respond more quickly to a future outbreak caused by an unknown pathogen, known as “Disease X”.
Singapore is also working with pharmaceutical companies and international organisations on vaccine development, manufacturing and pandemic response.
Two workers die at Tuas Port
Two workers died after falling into the sea while carrying out cargo-handling work at Tuas Port on Sept 22. The incident happened at about 8.40am while the men, aged 33 and 44, were performing stevedoring duties, which involve loading, unloading, stacking and securing cargo on ships.
PSA Singapore said one worker was found and pronounced dead, while the other was taken to hospital but later died. PSA is working with the relevant authorities, and investigations into the incident are ongoing. The company said it is also supporting the workers’ families.
Little India shop uses bags to stop illegal parking
A businessman in Little India has placed rows of suitcases and traffic cones outside his shop on Cuff Road to discourage motorists from parking illegally along double yellow lines. Photos shared online showed at least four rows of luggage extending onto the road.
While some people sympathised with the shop owner, others pointed out that placing luggage on a public road could itself be an offence. LTA said parking on double yellow lines can result in fines, while obstructing a public street under the Street Works Act can carry a fine of up to $2,000.
Loud music on buses could cost passengers $500
Bus passengers in Singapore can now face fines of up to $500 for playing loud audio or putting their feet on seats. More serious offences, such as creating danger for other commuters or soiling buses and transport facilities, can result in penalties of up to $5,000.
LTA said the rules aim to create a more pleasant commuting environment and bring bus regulations in line with those for rail transport. Designated staff from public bus operators can issue notifications, while drivers can ask disruptive passengers to stop or leave the bus.
SGSecure marks 10 years as PM Wong warns against complacency
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said Singaporeans should not become complacent about safety and security as SGSecure marks its 10th anniversary. He noted that security agencies have disrupted potential attacks before anyone was harmed, but warned that no system can guarantee complete protection.
Mr Wong encouraged people to stay alert, report suspicious behaviour and support those who may be vulnerable to radicalisation, without living in fear or becoming suspicious of others. He also highlighted the importance of community trust.
259 people probed over $5.2 million in scam losses
Singapore police are investigating 259 people over their alleged involvement in more than 648 scam cases that caused victims to lose about $5.2 million. The suspects, comprising 181 men and 78 women aged between 16 and 82, were identified during a two-week operation.
The cases involved e-commerce, phishing, job, investment and lucky-draw scams, as well as impersonation of government officials. The suspects are being investigated for offences including cheating, money laundering and providing unlicensed payment services.
