Evening Update: Today’s headlines from The Straits Times on May 18, 2026

You are reading the Evening Update newsletter. Get up to speed with the important stories from the day. Subscribe to our newsletter.


Keppel to allow Simba’s bid for M1 to lapse, explore new buyers

Keppel’s plans to sell the telecoms business of M1 to Simba was first announced in Aug 2025.

READ MORE HERE


3 retailers caught using misleading website features

These included displaying fake visitor counts and fabricated countdown timers. 

READ MORE HERE


S’pore businesses to have one-stop platform for info on financing partners, advisory services

SBF found that one in five companies here is looking for more financing.

READ MORE HERE


New S’pore scheme to certify firms that test and jailbreak AI systems

It benefits companies looking to test AI products and uncover weaknesses before deployment.

READ MORE HERE


Malaysia PM meets with king amid talk of early elections

PM Anwar said on May 17 he would consider calling a snap election if internal divisions continue to widen.

READ MORE HERE


The US-China deal the world actually needs

The architects of the atomic bomb warned against the arms race and proposed an alternative. 

READ MORE HERE


Man who raped, sexually assaulted younger sister gets jail and caning

He sexually abused his sister when he was 12 to 19 years old.

READ MORE HERE


S’porean hospitalised in Taiwan after falling from rock climbing area

He had been climbing rocks at Longdong, or Dragon Caves, in New Taipei City.

READ MORE HERE


Japan’s maid cafes go from ‘geek’ hangout to tourist draw

Staff say the cafes are not designed to titillate and are meant to be family-friendly.

READ MORE HERE


Escape to Adelaide for its koala encounters, award-winning cheese

Sip wine from the Barossa valley in Adelaide, whose appeal lies in its relaxed pace.

READ MORE HERE


Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.