Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on Oct 19, 2026

You are reading the Morning Briefing newsletter. Get the news that prepares you for the day ahead, delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter.


S’pore steps up surveillance of three infectious diseases

All three diseases are viral haemorrhagic fevers that can cause severe illness.

READ MORE HERE


PSI forecast to be between 101 and 190 on Oct 19, says NEA

The haze situation may also improve on Oct 20, although it could worsen overnight into Oct 21.

READ MORE HERE


France hit by new clashes; President Macron denounces ‘unbridled’ violence

Cost-of-living protests erupted across France, as police battled protesters and looters in Paris.

READ MORE HERE


Sydney’s new $5 billion airport opens with barely any flights

The airport is set to welcome its first passengers on Oct 25, but is said to have attracted few airlines.

READ MORE HERE


askST Jobs: My boss takes credit for my ideas. What can I do?

Tips on how to handle it without jeopardising your relationship with your boss.

READ MORE HERE


SIA pilots could not avoid turbulence on 2025 flight that led to crew injuries

The safety bureau report said the turbulence was unavoidable despite the precautions taken.

READ MORE HERE


Personal mobility aid catches fire at Yishun HDB block

The incident at a staircase landing disrupted the electricity supply to two flats adjacent to it.

READ MORE HERE


Married, yet on OnlyFans and dating apps? ‘Nothing happened’ is not enough

A pattern of secrecy elsewhere is a red flag, regardless of how you attempt to dismiss it.

READ MORE HERE


Why you should talk to your child about drugs

Parents play a key role in youth drug prevention.

READ MORE HERE


From the navy to bullion trading

NUS undergraduate Ian Chan started precious metals trading company Big Bullion in December 2025.

READ MORE HERE


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