BUDGET 2021
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Budget debate at a glance: How to transform S'pore for a post-Covid-19 future
From cushioning petrol duty hikes to targeting healthcare subsidies, here are 11 themes that emerged.
Of fiscal stability and stronger social safety nets
In addition to being fiscally sustainable, safety nets should not stifle the work ethic or economic competitiveness.
$20m arts top-up includes new grant for freelancers
The support includes a new project grant for the self-employed and a business transformation grant.

PA plays 'critical role', proved its worth during pandemic, says Eric Chua to Leong Mun Wai
PA has been involved in operating CCs as community vaccination centres as well as in distributing masks.
Istana to be restored, Malay Heritage Centre revamped
The Istana and former Istana Kampong Glam, which houses the Malay Heritage Centre, will be restored.
From the gallery
A good time to ramp up industry transformation - and measure its outcome
Policy outcomes tend to evolve over time, which can make measurable change within traditional planning cycles unrealistic.
DPM Heng reminds the House of hard truths
The stark bottom line is this - if S'pore wants to spend more, the Govt has to raise the revenue to do so.
ST-UOB roundtable
Help large local enterprises grow as part of mindset change: Experts
Initiatives to help local enterprises raise capital are also vital to supporting their growth.
Getting S'pore economy back into shape despite Covid-19 pandemic
Experts noted that preliminary estimates gear the economy towards growth.
Covid-19 Defences
Helping workers
More than $655 million given out to taxi and private-hire car drivers
The Government has earmarked another $116 million to be paid out under the Covid-19 Driver Relief Fund.
4,500 jobs, training opportunities in social service, early childhood sectors
This complements the drive by the National Jobs Council to create new jobs to help those affected by the pandemic.
More time for self-employed to get matched MediSave top-ups
4,000 self-employed people made contributions under the Contribute-As-You-Earn scheme last year.
Sustainable Home
New scheme to spur alliances aims to boost transformation of S'pore's built environment sector
Each alliance will develop a business plan that should clearly show how technology will be used to increase productivity.
Sentosa to become carbon-neutral destination by 2030
In the future, tourists would be more interested in sustainable travel options, said Chan Chun Sing.
Business Innovation
MPs urge support for businesses to leverage opportunities in growing green economy
They highlighted how corporates are placing more focus on environmental, social and governance considerations.
$24b channelled to firms and workers to boost transformation efforts
The funds will go towards building a more vibrant business sector and innovation ecosystem.