Category: Singapore News

DJ Calvin Harris Announced As Final Headlining Act At This Year’s Singapore Grand Prix

Another huge name has been added to the 2017 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix concert line-up: Calvin Harris.

The Grammy award-winning producer, songwriter and powerhouse DJ is set to perform on the third night of the Grand Prix, closing off the race weekend with a full-length performance.

He joins an already star-studded line-up including Ariana Grande, The Chainsmokers and OneRepublic. Other international acts who will be performing are Seal, Duran Duran, George The Poet and Lianne La Havas.

To catch Harris’ performance, get your hands on any three-day race ticket (S$298 and up) or any Sunday single-day ticket (S$198 and up)

For ticketing information, click here.

(Top Image Credit: The Chainsmokers & Ariana Grande To Perform Here In September – And They’re Not The Only Ones

Apple Celebrates Opening Of First Apple Store By Bringing Together Local Creatives To Share Their Skills

Apple fans, the wait is finally over. A date has been set for the opening of Singapore’s first Apple retail outlet–27 May.

Apple Orchard Road 

It takes some serious skills to capture breathtaking images with just an iPhone.

Local photographer Aik Beng Chia (known in some circles as ABC), will be imparting some of his skills and techniques on how to capture beautiful street photography with nothing but an iPhone. Soon, you’ll be taking epic images that are sure to up your ‘Gram game.

Date: 28 May
Time: 11am – 12.30pm

Tech isn’t just for the grown ups. Apple Orchard Road will be holding a Kids Hour, a one-hour workshop of sorts that will see parents and kids shooting their very own movie.

With the help of basic camera techniques, an iPad Pro, iMovie and a whole lot of creativity, kids will get a chance to play actor, producer and director!

Date: 31 May
Time: 10am – 10pm

A picture is worth a thousand words. While just about anyone can take a picture using an iPhone, Apple wants to help you bring out the best in your photos. Drop in for a 90-minute session as Creatives at Apple share pro tips on getting the most out of your camera app.

Date: 28 May
Time:  3pm – 4.30pm

If you’ve already made plans to head down to Apple Orchard Road, why not check out some of their workshops? Not only will you be able to pick up some handy skills, you might even meet some like-minded people!

Apple Orchard Road
Address: Knightsbridge Mall, 270 Orchard Road, S238857
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm

Also read, This 15-Storey Glass Building Is A Super Car Vending Machine Hiding In Plain Sight

13 Reasons Why’s Ross Butler’s Has A Very Surprising Link To Singapore

Unless you’ve been living in a hole for the past few months, you would have noticed plenty of online chatter about two TV shows in particular, 13 Reasons Why and Riverdale.

These two popular dramas have a few things in common: They’re both Netflix Original series, they’re both adapted from popular pieces of fiction (Archie comics FTW) and perhaps most importantly, they feature Ross Butler.

Ross Butler

Born 17 May 1990, Ross Butler was born in Singapore to an American father and Chinese-Malaysian mother.

Raised in Virginia, Butler dropped out of Ohio State University and took the leap to move to Los Angeles to begin acting. Butler is no novice when it comes to the acting game. He has had roles in a range of films and TV shows like Disney Channel’s K.C Undercover and popular TV series Teen Wolf.

13 Reasons Why: Zach Dempsey 

Unfortunately for Riverdale fanatics, Ross Butler will not be back for its second season. Fret not, you haven’t seen the last of him just yet! Online chatter has got us hopeful that Butler’s absence from Riverdale’s sophomore season could be due to the possibility of a larger role in 13 Reasons Why.

If you have yet to catch 13 Reasons Why, here’s the lowdown. The popular Netflix Original series starts off with the suicide of Hannah Baker, who leaves behind 13 tapes detailing the 13 reasons why she decided to end her life.

Based on a fiction book by author Jay Asher, the series delves deep into taboo issues faced by teenagers. Themes of sex, drugs, bullying, and the effect we have on the people around us form the backbone of the story.

With a stellar cast and captivating storyline, it’s no surprise that the popular series now has a huge fanbase with a multitude of fan theories coming out of the woodwork.

Ross Butler plays jock Zach Dempsey, who is a good guy at heart with a penchant for hanging out with the wrong crowd. We won’t spoil the rest of the show if you haven’t yet caught the binge-worthy series.

For those of you who have already finished watching the series and are experiencing some serious 13 Reasons Why withdrawals, a second season has been announced! There is no set date or details on season 2 as of yet, so we’re in for a quite a wait before we find out what happens to the students of Liberty High.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqRuaOedNZY

Also read, It’s Official! Ed Sheeren Is Bringing His Divide Tour To Singapore And Tickets Are On Sale 11 May

These Memes By SPCA Are Not Only Adorable, They Help To Save Lives Too

If you’re anything like me, you spend a fair amount of time each day stalking cute puppies on Instagram, and watching gifs and videos of cute animals.

Who can resist cute animals on the Internet?

Given our affinity for memes and gifs, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has decided to spread the message of adoption in a language and form we millennials are sure to understand: Memes.

The “Adopt A Meme” Project 

Each meme was crafted with the personality of the featured animal in mind, and even gives you details including their gender, age and when they came into the care of SPCA.

[caption id="attachment_26092" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Also read, DBS Marina Regatta Is Bringing The Beach To The Bay, With lululemon Workouts, Potato Head’s Coconut Bar & More!

Engineering Is The Future, And Why Their Workspaces Are Actually Really Appealing To Millennials

Tell someone you work in engineering, and chances are, they think you work with grease and machines parts.

It is not an inaccurate picture, but with the perpetuation of tech-dominance, engineering has evolved into a career of the future.

Looking past the engineering of yesteryear, the engineering profession today touts the use of big data and high-end technology while working in impressive workspaces guaranteed to drop your jaws.

Engineering = Bulletproof Job of the Future?

The world today thrives on innovation. To maintain this inexorable forward thrust, the technology that supports cannot stagnate either. As such, the onus lies on engineers to not fall behind.

This is a harrowing thought indeed.

Micron data analyst Kegan Ang, who works with schematics, statistics and Big Data in the Planning Department (like a Central Command Centre), shared the perks of working for a company that provides extensive support for education.

Micron also partners with the local polytechnics to offer SkillsFuture Earn & Learn programmes for specialist diplomas. There are also in-house training programs that employees can participate in to up-skill themselves.

To job-seeking millennials out there, on-the-job education comes as an attractive incentive. Financial support aside, these perks also create a workspace that nurtures its staff, as opposed to utilising them as human robots to meet ends.

And if we’re talking about bulletproof jobs, working in a sector upon which the future relies (since the Internet of Things cannot work without memory cards, which Micron manufactures) sounds like a pretty stable gig indeed.

With an invite to Micron, I visited Fab 10, one of their 4 semiconductor facilities, to personally take a look at the workspace of a modern day engineer.

Micron Technology, Inc

Micron Technology Inc. is one of the wafer fabrication companies in Singapore which produces a global supply of memory chips (even the ones in your HPB tracker watch).

This U.S. multi-national giant employs approximately 7,500 workers in Singapore, and hires staff from various disciplines within Engineering.

In modern engineering, Kegan says that an engineer’s work is evolving into sophisticated, high tech work. So it’s not just about going out in the hot sun and getting sweaty and dirty.

For example, in Fab 10 clean rooms where memory chips are made, the room has to be free from random particles therefore, you cannot even tear paper in the room.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZJzLQJMdXs

Engineers have to smock-up as the air in the Fab 10 floor is highly controlled for foreign particles.

To automate the transport of silicon wafers used to make memory chips, Front Opening Unified Pods (FOUPs) below are used.

Modern clean rooms are automated, with ceilings lined with tracks upon which the FOUPs travel.

Kegan’s job involves monitoring the progress of the automated processes, which means he not only has to know how the processes work, but also analyses how to improve production time, and troubleshoots where necessary.

A Space To Break The Rules

One aspect of engineering that used to put me off was the image of a ‘checklist’ work style, so imagine my surprise when I learnt about their “TED Talks”.

A platform for engineers to share ideas on how to improve systems, these talks also encourage engineers to trail-blaze new technology. Promising ideas are not swept under the rug and can actually be adapted and realised by the company.

For naysayers who think these conferences are limited to the more senior, scrap that thought. Kegan shared that despite being a new employee, he already had the chance to be on this stage of open-sharing (i.e. the “TED” talks) twice.

Engineering Is Vital To Singapore’s Future

In recent years, Singapore has been championing more opportunities for further education in engineering, such as via the Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) for various engineering skills and the Electronics and Precision and Machinery Engineering Cluster’s Place-and-Train Programmes.

The Labour Movement has been expanding its U Associate network to include more than 40 professional guilds (termed U Associates) such as the Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES), to develop training and progression opportunities for their professional members, such as the Engineers Progression pathway with a three-tiered scheme below.

But despite the increasing prominence of engineering as a career, I admit to still having harboured a skewed perception of what modern engineering was like, before hearing about modern engineering jobs from Micron and one of its engineers, Kegan Ang.

Trashing stereotypes of unattractive, dead-end work cultures, what I learnt that day truly showed me the future.

The Labour Movement is working closely with tripartite partners (i.e. the government and businesses) to help working people into future jobs, such as those in sunrise industries like engineering. 

Also Read, 5 Harsh Realities Of Working In S’pore You Won’t Want To Hear But Should

NUS Opening 140 Modules To Alumni Sounds Good, But Not If You Read Closely

Yesterday, the National University of Singapore (NUS) announced that it will be opening 140 courses to its alumni over the next three years. This comes as part of its efforts to promote lifelong learning.

When something sounds too good to be true, it often is. Before you get excited and start making plans with all your ex-uni mates from NUS, here are some things you should know about the courses being made available to you.

1. It will only be free for one year

Don’t be misled by the headlines. While alumni can attend for free for the first year (August 2017 – July 2018) of this three-year offering, the subsequent two years will not come at completely zero cost.

While the $3,000 to $3,500 per module course fee will be waived, a student service fee of $261.85 will be charged per semester.

2. NUS Alumni can only take a maximum of 2 modules over the 3-year period

Before you get excited thinking about going back to school, you should know that you can only take a maximum of 2 modules. Not per semester, not per year, but for the entire 3-year period. You are also limited to taking only one module per semester.

3. Modules you are eligible for heavily depends on your degree/major

Most of the modules offered are at the post-graduate level, with entry pre-requisites including Bachelor of Engineering/Science/etc., or the stricter Bachelor with a specified major. More lenient pre-requisites include Bachelor degree relating to a particular are of study (e.g computing), with only a handful of courses available with zero pre-requisites.

Being a Psychology major who studied in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, who also took a couple of business modules, I can see from a quick glance that I am only eligible for a total of 15 unique modules out of 140, spread over the 2 semesters—most of which are offered by the School of Business.

These modules include Project Management, Decision Analytics Using Spreadsheets, Legal Environment of Business. From the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, which offers courses with no pre-requisites, I am also eligible to take Social Entrepreneurship and Value-Focused Negotiation.

4. Representation of Arts and Social Sciences courses limited

For those who studied at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences like I did, you’ll be disappointed to know that only 2 modules are offered by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences during AY2017/2018: Prescribed Texts In Literature and Seminar in Chinese Pragmatics. To attend, you must have an NUS Honours degree (2^nd Class and above) or equivalent, or a good Bachelors degree.

Before you get excited thinking about returning to your alma mater and giving your uni experience a do-over, taking modules you missed out on or learning things you didn’t get the chance to back when you were in school, these are some things you may have missed that are worth taking note of.

As far as these courses are concerned, it’s not about learning for the sake of learning or to expose yourself to different things—it’s much more about deepening your knowledge in your existing field.

(Top Image Credit: Isem.nus.edu)

Also read NUS Clinches 1st Place In Asian University Ranking For Third Year Straight; NTU Rises To 3rd

DBS Marina Regatta Is Bringing The Beach To The Bay, With lululemon Workouts, Potato Head’s Coconut Bar & More!

If you’ve been spending all your hours cooped up in the office rushing to meet deadline after deadline, we think it’s time to get out and feel the warmth of the sunshine on your face again.

Where, you ask? Look no further than the CBD. This 1-4 June, DBS brings the beach to you.

Back for its sixth edition, the DBS Marina Regatta will see the return of Singapore’s first and only urban pop-up beach at Marina Bay.

Dubbed “Singapore’s Biggest BayFest”, there’s no place like the DBS Marina Regatta this summer.

From lying in a hammock with an ice cold cocktail, to taking lululemon yoga classes against a scenic backdrop, to tackling Singapore’s largest inflatable water obstacle course, the DBS Marina Regatta has something for everyone!

Here are some amazing highlights at the DBS Marina Regatta!

1. Sip On Cocktails at Potato Head’s Coconut Bar

Bali beach lovers will be familiar with Potato Head, an essential stop for anyone heading over for a vacay.

Fret not if you’ve never been there; Potato Head will be bringing its renowned Coconut Bar to the DBS Marina Regatta. Sip on the bar’s fresh coconut cocktails and beers, and be transported to paradise!

Where: Bay Beach – Singapore’s only pop-up urban beach

2. Make A Splash At The Giant Inflatable Water Obstacle Course

Last year, the DBS Marina Regatta brought a five-storey water slide to the Bay. This year, it’s bringing “Battle Bay”, a massive inflatable water obstacle course with nine obstacles spanning 11,000 square feet! Do you and your friends have the mental and physical chops to finish the Battle Bay?

Tackle the course as an individual or a team of four, and stand a chance to win cash prizes if you or your team clock the fastest time. With both bragging rights and $8,000 up for grabs, you’ll want to start training now.

To take part as a team, sign up An illustrated projection of the Marina Bay skyline[/caption]

For a brief respite from the sweltering heat, step into the Bay Dome, one of two majestic domes at the regatta. Standing at 7.5 metres tall, you’ll get to immerse yourself in Singapore’s largest interactive art dome and add your personal touch to an illustrated projection of the iconic Marina Bay skyline.

Create your own unique characters and watch them come to life on the projection. Watch the canvas evolve as characters stream in and create a dynamic and vibrant landscape!

Where: Bay Dome
Price: Free

4. Work out with lululemon

Fitness enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Popular brand lululemon will be collaborating with Yoga+ and WeBarre to bring you a curated line-up of yoga and barre classes at the Bay. Complete all classes and receive a special surprise from lululemon!

Work up a sweat with fellow fitness enthusiasts! Who knows, maybe you’ll make a new friend or two!

Classes are free, so hurry and sign up at 5. Get Ultra-Ready at the DBSMR X ULTRA Countdown Party [caption id="attachment_26062" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Image Credit: Artist’s impression of Marina Regatta 2017[/caption]

With such a fun and exciting array of activities to participate in at the DBS Marina Regatta, there’s no reason to stay indoors this June! So get out there and have some fun!

Follow DBS on Facebook for more updates or visit

Also read Nothing To Do In Tiny S’pore? This Bank Is Making It Its Mission To Bring More Life Here

Think You Have The Voice? Online Auditions For The Voice Singapore-Malaysia Are Officially OPEN

Think you have a great voice? Or know someone you believe to be an undiscovered talent? If so, you’ll want to listen up!

Online auditions for the global hit sensation, The Voice决战好声, are officially OPEN.

At The Voice, it’s all about, well, the voice. You’ll be judged not on how you look, not on how you command the stage, but solely on your vocal performance.

Where Do I Audition?

The auditions are open to all participants above 16 years old, regardless of race and nationality. Do take note that you have to be fluent in Mandarin and be able to perform songs in Mandarin.

Interested? This is your chance to be heard! To audition, visit the official website (31 May 2017. You can sing any song in any genre, and in any language–except for songs in dialects such as Cantonese or Hokkien. Sing either a cappella (without instrumental accompaniment) or with an accompanying instrument; singing with an accompanying music track is strictly NOT allowed.

For more information, be sure to follow their official .

Also read Calling All Aspiring Nathan Hartonos, The Voice Is Coming To A Stage Near YOU!

Newly Opened LuLu’s Lounge Brings The 60s’ New York Back Alley Club To Singapore’s Nightlife Scene

A new night spot has opened up in town and it’s burlesque dancers, inventive cocktails, and old school nostalgia galore!

LuLu’s Lounge is not your average club. A unique nightlife concept, the quirky lounge comprises a dance floor, outdoor terrace and a dynamic entertainment line-up.

You won’t find any 18 year-olds getting wasted here. Lulu’s is firmly pitched at the more refined crowd.

The adult-oriented lounge is made for the mature crowd that wants to party, but in a less intense clubbing environment.

[caption id="attachment_25941" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit:

Be prepared to be taken on a musical journey that starts off with live jazz.

It then progresses to old school, hip-hop funk or dancehall as the night goes on and morning comes.

[caption id="attachment_25942" align="aligncenter" width="1904"] Image Credit:

LuLu’s must-try drinks (starting at $24) are cocktails with a coy twist.

‘Big Coconuts’, for one, is very similar to a Pina Colada, but with a tangy, sour punch, and vodka.

[caption id="attachment_25944" align="aligncenter" width="836"] Image Credit:

If you’re familiar with Bang Bang and Employees Only, LuLu’s is opened by the same people, Sarissa and Joshua Schwartz.

The husband-and-wife duo draws inspiration from a fictional character, Lulu.

[caption id="attachment_25934" align="aligncenter" width="2000"] Image Credit:

Excite Your Inner Child As WWE Comes To S’pore, Bringing The Action Right Before Your Eyes

If you were born in the 90s, you probably grew up with your eyes glued to the TV screen. We’re guessing one of the shows stamped into your memory is WWE–or WWF, as it was known then.

Many of us watched it religiously and loved everything from the epic entrances to the way the wrestlers would trash talk each other before slamming it down in the ring.

OG fans, you’ll be excited to know that this June, WWE will be coming down to Singapore so you can watch your favourites fight it out in the ring!

After a sold-out show in 2015, WWE is returning for its ONLY show in Southeast Asia. Happening on 28 June for one night only, fans will see WWE superstars such as Chris Jericho, Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins wrestling in the flesh.

Also on the roster are Dean Ambrose, Braun Strowman, Hideo Itami, as well as female wrestlers Maryse, Alexa Bliss and Sasha Banks.

Tickets are priced from $48 to $488 for CAT 1 Ring Side seats, with each ticket coming with a WWE branded chair you’ll get to take home as a special momento!

While this is all very exciting (and nostalgic!) for those of you hardcore wrestling fans, we have to warn you: Please do not try this at home.

Get your tickets from the 2 Stadium Walk, S397691
Date: 28 June
Time: 7.30pm

Also read 5 Harsh Realities Of Working In S’pore You Won’t Want To Hear But Should