Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Jan 1, 2026

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Singapore welcomes 2026 with dazzling fireworks, heartland cheer

By 8pm on Wednesday, police had closed the Jubilee Bridge, Fullerton waterfront and Merlion waterfront areas due to capacity crowds. 

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Embracing one another’s cultures will strengthen Singaporeans’ shared identity: President Tharman

In his New Year message, he urged Singaporeans to experiment and even attempt to master one another’s cultures.

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2026 Outlook: What’s next for healthcare in S’pore

More care options will be available to seniors as Singapore becomes a super-aged society in 2026.

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S’pore stock market: Plenty of room for optimism in 2026

With initiatives like a tie-up with Nasdaq to come, investor confidence in SGX is poised to continue, says the writer.

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Johor can be a game changer for healthcare in the region: Thomson Medical Group CEO

Innovation in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone could spur experimental treatments, says Dr Melvin Heng.

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Has China gone soft on drugs?

A revised law on keeping drug use records confidential has divided netizens, with some believing that it will protect the rich and powerful.

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S’pore Salary Guide: How does your pay compare with that of your peers?

Are you making enough money? Explore this guide to find out.

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Novavax Covid-19 jab available at some GP clinics in S’pore

The jab will be available at selected GP clinics from Jan 2 to May 31.

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143 people under investigation for suspected involvement in scams

Victims lost almost $4m in more than 400 cases of scams.

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New house, new baby, new outlook: How S’pore celebs are approaching 2026

Nathan Hartono is getting married while Andrea Chong is having her third baby.

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