What's News: January 9, 2018

An inter-agency task force will review how SkillsFuture Singapore was defrauded of nearly $40 million. Meanwhile, steps are being taken to strengthen the agency's fraud-detection system, including the installation of a data analytics system later this year.

South Korea plans to bring up steps to ease military tensions and resume reunions of separated families during inter-Korean talks today in an attempt to push the rare dialogue beyond the Winter Olympics. The two estranged neighbours are slated to meet for the first time in two years at 9am Singapore time today at the truce village Panmunjom on South Korea's side of the border.

Mr Stephen Bannon's (above) apology for comments trashing the United States President's family that appeared in a new book are unlikely to tamp down Mr Donald Trump's anger at his former chief strategist. Trump aides indicate that the President has presented supporters of both men with a "him-or-me" choice. Mr Bannon now appears isolated not only from the White House, but also from some of his backers.

French President Emmanuel Macron met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing yesterday on his first state visit to China. Earlier in the day, Mr Macron said China and Europe should work together on Mr Xi's signature Belt and Road Initiative, but warned that roads cannot be one-way.

Singaporeans should be more positive about Asean given the many benefits it offers - not just its huge market potential, but also the less immediately obvious ones, like peace, says Ambassador-at-Large Tommy Koh.

There were 31 reported disputes between neighbours over the past three years which involved parties who had mental health conditions. Most recently, the actions of an elderly resident sparked concern, but she was said to pose no harm to herself or neighbours.

Power company SP Group discovered two ancient fault lines in Yishun and Jurong, created about 200 million years ago, while excavating tunnels 60m underground. But they pose no danger as Singapore is no longer in an active seismic zone.

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing is considering rule changes aimed at increasing trading, according to chief executive officer Charles Li.

Rebates to market makers, simplified rules for using collateral across multiple positions and the removal or reduction of stamp duty charges are among measures being considered.

Adam Swandi and Shahul Rayyan are aware of the high standards and expectations at Albirex Niigata, but they cannot wait to take the plunge.

They are the first two Singaporeans to join the two-time S-League football champions. Midfielder Adam was drawn by their professionalism, while for goalkeeper Shahul, it was the club's work ethic.

Singaporean pianist Wang Congyu (above), 26, and his French wife Julie Lu, 28, have put $80,000 of their savings into the inaugural Piano Island Festival, which opens today and runs until next Monday. There will be masterclasses, recitals, lectures as well as a competition for young pianists.

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WEB SPECIAL

Intense rainfall caused flash floods in at least nine areas in eastern Singapore yesterday morning. Here are some precautions to take. str.sg/oJ8m

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VIDEO

Watch how SecureMyBike, Singapore's first automated underground parking system for two-wheelers, works. str.sg/oJMG