Morning Briefing: Top stories from The Straits Times on May 21

Good morning! Here are our top stories to kick-start your Thursday, May 21.


Circuit breaker to be lifted: What you can and cannot do from June 2

Which businesses that were previously shut can now reopen from June 2, and which cannot? Can you swim in a public pool, view a showflat or allow your son's private tutor to come to the house?

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WHO reports most coronavirus cases in a day, as cases near five million

The rising number of new coronavirus cases in poor countries is a cause for concern, said WHO.

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Phased reopening could delay Singapore's recovery, say economists

The extended closure of already hard-hit sectors, such as retail and F&B, could inflict more damage as many firms may not survive another month, said an analyst.

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Easing of measures like 'stress test' to see what works

Easing the restrictions in three phases allows for flexibility to "switch activities on and off" if needed.

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Trump blames China for 'mass worldwide killing'

His early morning tweet, which also referred to an unidentified "wacko in China", was the latest heated rhetoric from the White House.

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'Not much time' left to call election in Singapore: Chan Chun Sing

Singapore has to dissolve Parliament in January next year, months ahead of an April deadline to hold the next GE.

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Legal letters issued to 2 who made corruption claims against Josephine Teo, husband over Covid-19 care facilities

"I do not intend to pursue the matter further, or to claim damages, if the allegations are publicly withdrawn, and apologies given," said Mrs Teo.

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Travellers to gradually be allowed to transit through Changi Airport from June 2

Currently, foreign passengers may transit through Singapore only if they are on repatriation flights arranged by their governments.

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Employers must offer fair retrenchment package, be more generous with low-wage workers: MOM

"Employers are reminded to ensure that their employees are treated with empathy and dignity," said the ministry.

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#Stayhome guide for Thursday: Enjoy classic chicken rice with free delivery, share your family's stories and more

Hainanese chicken rice works well for home delivery because the meat tastes best at room temperature.

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