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East-West Line Back on Track After 6-Day Delay

After six days of delays, train services finally resumed between Jurong East and Buona Vista MRT stations along the East-West Line on the morning of October 1. The disruption, caused by extensive track damage, had left many commuters scrambling for alternative routes and dealing with longer travel times.

This return to normalcy brings a sigh of relief for many. However, westbound trains along the four-station stretch (i.e., between Dover and Clementi) are currently running slower at a temporary speed limit of 40km/h until October 3. This slower pace is part of a standard safety process following rail replacements, as trains typically travel at speeds of 60-80km/h.

COMMUTERS’ EXPERIENCE

During the disruption, the daily lives of more than 2.1 million passengers were affected with long waits and crowded platforms becoming the norm from September 25 to 29. The delays created challenges for those heading to work or school, requiring them to leave home earlier than usual.

Many commuters switched to alternative transport like buses, ride-hailing services, or taxis, which are typically more expensive than the MRT. You see, ride-hailing services also implemented surge pricing due to higher demand. These increased travel costs added up, especially for long-distance commuters.

ALTERNATIVE ROUTES

For six days, commuters took alternative routes, with many switching to the North-South Line or opting for the Thomson-East Coast and Downtown Lines. As a result, stations were packed, and transfer points became congested with passengers seeking faster routes to their destinations.

A common strategy involved transferring at Queenstown station to take the shuttle train to Buona Vista, or using Boon Lay station to transfer to Jurong East. While necessary, these options still extended travel times and complicated otherwise straightforward journeys.

REPAIR WORK

The damage affected the stretch between Clementi and Ulu Pandan Depot, requiring a full replacement of rail segments. On September 30, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced that the rail repairs been completed and the third rail had also been reinstated.

Before fully reopening the line, the LTA carried out a series of rigorous tests to ensure the tracks were safe. This included load tests using a locomotive to verify the rails were securely welded, followed by an endurance test involving a fully loaded train packed with sandbags to mimic real commuter conditions. Only after passing these assessments were trains allowed back on the line.

THE IMPACT

Commuters faced higher travel costs, missed appointments, and lost valuable time that could have been spent with family or at work. Many shared their frustrations of waking up earlier, enduring crowded buses, and dealing with extended travel times.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

For the millions affected, the six-day disruption felt like a marathon of endurance. With services now restored, they can finally return to their routines, though with a lingering sense of caution until the repairs are fully stabilized.

Sources: 1 & 2

This new “Fall in Love” K-beauty box worth $240+ is yours to bag home at just $67+

Welcome to the last quarter of 2024!

We’ve entered the final stretch of the year and it’s time to relook at your beauty routine before a new year begins.

Not sure what beauty products to try this month?

Why not give Olive Young’s “Fall in Love” K-beauty box a go?

Here are $240+ worth of products to bag home by paying just $67+:

FULL SIZE

A’pieu Honey & Milk Lip Oil

First up, we have this lip oil which is more than just a pretty gloss.

Its densely adhering formula ensures moisture that lingers, quenching parched lips with honey and milk protein extracts.

As the oil glides on, your lips will be enveloped in a soft milk scent that uplifts the senses. But this lip product isn’t just a treat for the nose; its non-sticky formula offers a lightweight feel that is comfortable enough to wear all day long.

From the first swipe to the final sheen, this lip oil delivers lasting hydration and soothing nourishment as we swing into the last quarter of 2024.

UNOVE Silk Oil Essence 70ml #Tender Bloom

Indulge your strands in the nourishment of UNOVE’s Silk Oil Essence.

This hair treatment infuses locks with botanical oils and silk proteins to repair damage and enhance shine.

Proteins and amino acids help smooth the hair cuticle, eliminating frizz and sealing in softness.

Meanwhile, plant oils like olive, macadamia, argan, sunflower, and camellia penetrate the hair shaft, locking in moisture to strengthen and revive thirsty strands.

A few drops of this bloom-scented essence is all it takes to transform lifeless locks into lustrous-looking hair.

Haruharu wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream 20ml

Powered by fermented black rice and bamboo extract, this eye cream is an antioxidant force that banishes dark circles and fine lines.

But the real deal is bakuchiol, a plant-derived retinol alternative that smoothes crow’s feet without irritation.

Unlike some anti-aging creams, this milky formula melts into delicate eye areas so you look fresh, not greasy.

With continued use, the brightening and firming effects create a wide-awake gaze.

Don’t let tired, puffy eyes age you before your time.

Give it a try!

Arencia Fresh Green Cleanser 120g

Is your skin in dire need of a reboot?

Arencia’s fresh green cleanser can help.

This dual-action powerhouse pulls double duty as both a cleanser and a clay mask, giving skin a one-two punch (in a good way).

Clogged pores and dull complexions meet their match as the fresh green cleanser gets rid of blackheads and sebaceous filaments while clearing up skin bumps.

Powered by nature’s best like green tea extract and rice water + powder, this blend has been clinically tested to improve key skincare factors.

Simply massage it onto damp skin, let it work its magic for a minute, then rinse it off for a baby-soft skin canvas.

COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream

This retinol cream from COSRX blends high-efficiency ingredients to solve skin problems and delivers them safely to the skin.

Whether you’re a lady who can’t stop uncaking on makeup (it gets stuck in fine lines) or a gentleman wanting to smooth over sagging skin, loss of elasticity, noticeable pores, and dryness, this is your answer.

Pure retinol and vitamin E join forces with hyaluronic acid to tighten wrinkles and build back elasticity.

Just a dab of this eye cream before bedtime is all you need to firm and plump skin while you sleep.

No more invasive fillers needed for needle fearers.

KAJA Gloss Shot

Talk about staying power: KAJA’s Gloss Shot lip gloss delivers a 24-hour glossy pearl luster that lasts through whatever your day brings.

Its formula prevents that tight, sticky feeling you hate.

Jojoba Seed Oil, Squalane, and Rosa Canina Fruit Oil form a blend that deeply moisturizes and strengthens the delicate lip skin.

Lips stay soft and smooth for the long haul.

A makeup bag must-have for hydration lovers who crave that all-day glossy look.

Colorgram Tintin Dory Eyeshadow Palette

The colorgram Tintin Dory Eyeshadow Palette is for anyone who dares to get playful with color.

Packed with four highly pigmented shades in vivid hues and multiple finishes, this compact palette is your ticket to eye-catching eye looks.

Take your pick between earthy neutrals, peachy tones, or cool pinks—or really let your wild side roam free with the all-glitter version.

Whatever you fancy, these long-wearing, no-creasing formulas keep your eyeshadow in place.

Plus, the sleek size slips easily into any bag, so you can amp up the drama whenever (and wherever) you want.

Colorgram’s bold shades command attention so the only limit is your imagination.

WAKEMAKE Sheer Layering Dual Blusher

Blush is more than just a rosy flush; it’s an expression, a mood-making finishing touch.

That’s why this sheer layering dual blusher from WAKEMAKE is a true palette for the face.

Sweep on a sheer watercolor veil of color, or build up the intensity with layers for a bolder pop.

And thanks to the reflective powder blend, each layer catches light for a subtle radiance.

Whether you prefer a just-pinched glow or want to turn up the wattage, their five shades can take you there.

Use the free brush provided for flawless application.

TRAVEL SIZE (FREE GIFTS)

Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil 30ml + COSRX Full Fit Sheet Mask

Get Olive Young’s BEAUTY BOX OCTOBER (Fall in Love Box) at $67+ here.

4-Day Work Week? 69% of Singapore Employers Say It’s Feasible!

In April 2024, a poll by payroll and HR solutions provider ADP found that nearly a third of Singaporean workers expect the four-day work week to become standard within the next five years. Notably, 21% of workers reported that their employers have already implemented this model to promote better mental health at work.

As the year progressed, another survey by recruitment agency Robert Walters revealed that 69% of Singaporean employers now consider the four-day work week “a feasible concept.” Employee enthusiasm, however, was even greater as 93% of workers expressed interest in a trial of the shorter work week. Neighboring countries like Malaysia and Thailand echoed this sentiment, with 94% and 95% of workers in these nations, respectively.

The survey, which gathered insights from over 5,000 professionals across 11 Asian markets, placed Singapore in the middle regarding support for the four-day work week.

SOUTHEAST ASIA LEADS

Southeast Asia appears to be the most optimistic region about this shift in work culture. Compared to places like Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and South Korea, professionals and businesses in this region are more open to experimenting with a shorter work week.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

WORKPLACE CHANGES

While many HR experts agree that a four-day work week could improve work-life balance, boost employee happiness, and even enhance productivity, they caution that Singapore may not embrace this change immediately.

Aslam Sardar, CEO of the Institute for Human Resource Professionals, noted that Singaporean employers’ hesitancy could stem from the country’s highly competitive business environment. Concerns about operational impact, especially in specific industries, and the complexities of implementing such a shift are key reasons for their caution. Significant organizational changes, cultural adjustments, and technological advancements like automation and job redesign will be critical to making this model work, according to Sardar.

FUTURE IMPLEMENTATION

Despite the hurdles, many Singaporeans are eager to give the four-day work week a try. They view it as a way to improve work-life balance and spend more time with their families. In fact, 96% of professionals surveyed said they would be more inclined to apply for jobs at companies offering this flexible arrangement.

However, when it comes to making compromises, most workers are unwilling to trade reduced salaries or bonuses in exchange for shorter hours, signaling that while the demand for change is high, financial security remains a top priority.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

While the four-day work week is gaining traction, it may take time before it becomes the norm in Singapore, as businesses and workers balance the potential benefits with the challenges of implementation.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Latest WFH internships posted from 23 to 26 September 2024

Believe it or not, we’re down to the last quarter of 2024.

If you’ve yet to secure yourself an internship, it’s time to start applying.

This week we have opportunities in creative video production, graphic design, and more so stick around and see if it’s a match with your skills.

#1: Aww Media Pte. Ltd. – Creative Video Production Intern

Website: aww.media

Allowance / Remuneration: $650 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Not specified.

Key Responsibilities

Contribute to ideas for storyboarding/conceptualization
Preparation of pre-production documents before a shoot
Liaising with talents, helping with studio booking
Social media planning & execution for the company’s social media accounts
Take behind-the-scenes photos/videos for social media content
Assist during shoots as production crew
Sourcing for props for shoots
Video editing
Generate leads to help increase sales