Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Feb 17, 2026

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$15.1b budget surplus reflects uncertain economy, cyclical windfalls: Economists

MPs said such surpluses should be funneled back into society, and used to tackle long-term challenges.

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New initiative lets wealthy fund organisations helping unemployed youth in S’pore, Thailand

The initiative is working with 14 organisations across Singapore and Thailand.

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6 months to show you that AI is much more than a smarter Google

A six-month free premium AI access could be a game changer that reshapes how we learn, make decisions and approach tasks.

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S’porean professor beats CNY travel rush to return from China for reunion dinner

For the reunion dinner spread, he and his parents like to keep things simple. 

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No bak kwa, secure all doors: SPCA’s tips on keeping pets safe during CNY

Food waste and festive noises could pose risks to pets.

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3 local CNY movies at Golden Village eligible for SG Culture Pass credits

Patrons can select their preferred screening date, time and seats.

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The property guide price is not what you’ll pay: Australia cracks down on underquoting ‘plague’

The entrenched problem of underquoting or price baiting has made it harder for buyers to hunt for a home they can afford.

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Malaysia’s opposition fractures as sacked leader races to PAS, threatens Muhyiddin’s grip

Perikatan Nasional can no longer house the warring factions in Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia.

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3 taken to hospital after fire at Hougang HDB void deck

The fire involved construction materials, said SCDF.

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Man jailed for speeding over 30kmh above limit, killing woman

The driver was at a residential area in Bukit Batok West.

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