Hefty Price Tag of Vaping in Singapore

According to a recent release from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), electronic vaporizers, commonly known as e-cigarettes, e-vaporizers, or vapes, have gained popularity in Singapore despite being banned.

Many young individuals are captivated by vaping because they perceive it as trendy and safe, while advocates argue that it aids in quitting smoking. However, there’s a darker side to this narrative.

The Dark Side of Vaping

E-vaporizers are known to harbor harmful chemicals such as fine particulate matter (PM), cancer-causing agents like carbonyls, and volatile organic compounds such as formaldehyde and benzene. Additionally, perilous heavy metals like tin, lead, and nickel have been detected in these devices, posing inherent health risks. Despite their alluring packaging in vibrant and sleek designs, adorned with sweet and fruity flavors to mask potential health hazards, the fundamental purpose of e-vaporizers is to dispense nicotine, a highly addictive substance.

While the long-term effects of vaping are still under scrutiny, it has been associated with nausea, vomiting, mouth and airway irritation, chest pain, and palpitations.

Penalties Under the Act

According to the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, individuals convicted of selling, offering for sale, possessing for sale, importing, or distributing e-vaporizers may face a fine not exceeding S$10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months for the first offense.

Subsequent offenses can result in a fine not exceeding S$20,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both. Furthermore, individuals found guilty of possessing, using, or purchasing e-vaporizers may be liable to fines not exceeding S$2,000.

Enforcement of the Act

In 2022, more than 2,600 e-vaporizer-related posts were removed from online platforms. Between 2018 and 2022, 860 individuals were apprehended for selling and smuggling e-vaporizers, with 145 facing prosecution during the same period.

For travelers, Singapore is heightening enforcement measures against those entering with electronic vaporizers. Operations will be conducted at air, land, and sea checkpoints, commencing at Changi Airport. Incoming passengers may undergo screening for vapes or their components, and fines will be imposed if caught.

Travelers can avoid penalties by declaring and surrendering these items at the Red Channel, as stipulated by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the HSA. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will persist in security checks to identify and deter smuggling attempts.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

 

 

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Latest WFH internships posted from 15 to 18 January 2024

smiling-asian-girl-using-laptop

Just imagine NOT having to wake up earlier to prep for work or squeeze with the other on-the-way-to-work zombies on the buses and trains…

Wouldn’t that be the ideal work scenario?

And to help you make that happen, we have searched high and low to bring you this week’s WFH internships.

Keep scrolling!

#1: The Good Hood Pte Ltd – Community Building Intern

goodhoodsg.com

Website: goodhoodsg.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $400 – 800 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Can do attitude, fast learner
  • Responsible & resourceful
  • Love bringing people together
  • Have experience with digital community building and engagement (e.g. managed an active Facebook, Telegram, or WhatsApp group before)
  • Good with social media (IG, FB, Telegram)
  • Good to have: marketing & design skills – an eye for design/color/detail
Key Responsibilities
  • Creating interesting content to engage community members through various channels 
  • Collaborate with stakeholders such as content creators to establish partnerships and collaborative projects to benefit the community
  • Support the planning and execution of events aimed at fostering a sense of belonging and unity
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Vivian via this link.

#2: Aspial Corporation Limited – Marketing Intern

aspial.com

Website: aspial.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Able to work independently and take initiative in assigned tasks
  • Problem solver and strong coordination skills
  • Takes an interest in the brand and business
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Works well in a team with a good attitude
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist in marketing and advertising promotional activities
  • Be involved in creating strategies and marketing collaterals for product marketing campaigns
  • Perform weekly market analysis and research on competition
  • Assist in updating customer database and customer relationship management systems (CRM)
  • Supporting the marketing team in daily administrative tasks, including filing, stock fulfillment, and customer queries
  • Manage e-commerce-related duties
  • Any other duties as assigned
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Lincoln via this link.

#3: Holicay – Performance Marketing Intern

 

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A post shared by Holicay (@holicaytravel)

Website: holicay.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,250 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program in Marketing, Business Analytics, or a related field
  • Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools
  • Experience with Copy Writing and able to deploy retargeting strategies on Mailchimp/ Klaviyo
  • Familiarity with digital marketing platforms such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and others is a plus
  • A love for creative problem solving, autonomy to run projects, and a deep curiosity for understanding user behaviors
Key Responsibilities

Performance marketing

  • Assist in developing and executing performance marketing strategies to drive user acquisition and engagement
  • Analyze competitor data and industry trends to develop creative systems to drive core product metrics
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize landing pages, user experience, and conversion funnels
  • Develop content strategies to drive engagement with target audience globally using Google Analytics and Facebook 

Brand Strategy

  • Work with the marketing team to create brand guidelines to be used in all marketing collaterals across all online and offline channels
  • Develop core content pillars and retargeting funnels to drive awareness, engagement, and product signups using User Analytics tools like Clarity and Hotjar
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your application to kevin@holicay.com

#4: Loki Pte Ltd – Digital & Social Media Intern

 

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A post shared by LOKi (@thisisloki__)

Website: thisisloki.com/my/home 

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • 3 months (minimum) to 6 months commitment of internship.
  • Skill(s): Copywriting, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn platform management, Digital Analytics
  • Required language(s): English
  • Qualities: Independent, willing to learn, relentless problem solver, quick learner, street-smart, creative, enthusiastic.
  • Preferably students specialized in Marketing, Advertising, Communications or equivalent courses.
  • Stand out among other candidates if you … are a TikTok pro, know how to do a summersault, or have other cool skills!
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist digital managers in achieving marketing targets for key clients.
  • Managing, creating, and publishing original, high-quality content on social platforms assigned to you.
  • Crafting social media copies, blog articles, and ad copies. Copywriting and social media come hand in hand.
  • Work closely with digital managers and creatives to produce out-of-the-box social media content and ad campaigns.
  • Respond to comments, private messages, and DMs on social media accounts assigned to you.
  • Report on campaign performance and sentiments.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply via this link.

#5: Difference Engine – Editorial Intern

differenceengine.sg

Website: rivervalleyirregulars.com 

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • A good command of the English language and impeccable grammar.
  • A strong interest and understanding of the comics and graphic novel medium; both superhero and independent properties, print and digital (including webcomics and webtoons). 
  • Diplomatic and tactful in dealing with creators, partners, and internal team members. Able to handle sensitive conversations with multiple parties within a collaborative environment. Mindful of cultural differences that might exist regionally and internationally.
  • Good problem-solving skills. Responsible and able to work independently (as the team is primarily working from home), take initiative, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Positive outlook, with the ability to adapt to dynamic, fast-paced environments and situations, both on and offline.
  • Able to work outside of office hours and on weekends (with replacement time-off given).
Key Responsibilities
  • Assisting the editorial team to edit or proofread comic manuscripts and artwork for publication; making style, structural, and grammar corrections, as well as other necessary art direction as required.
  • Providing general administrative support for the editorial team including but not limited to processing submissions, consolidating feedback, arranging meetings, etc.
  • Assisting the editorial team in researching and identifying potential comic book creators and projects relevant to the company’s vision.
  • Assisting with any marketing copy needed as tasked by the editors. 
  • Will also be required to staff book events and workshops when needed.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply via this link.

Editor’s note: These internships are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some positions are hybrid ones and you may need to report physically to the office. For more deets, do contact the employer directly.

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Sip into Local Flavors: Must-Try Alcohol Brands in Singapore

Singapore’s local brewing scene has flourished over the years, offering an impressive array of beverages ranging from whiskey to gin and beyond.

It is now home to a diverse collection of distilleries and breweries, making it an exciting destination for those seeking unique and flavorful libations. If you’re in the mood for a drink, why not explore and support these remarkable homegrown brands?

ALIVE BREWING CO

Imagine the fusion of a craft beer enthusiast with a background in financial analysis and a chemical engineer driven by art and design. The result? Alive Brewing Co, a brainchild of passionate hopheads Cheong Qing Yang and Ryan Yue.

Image Credits: alivebrewing.co

Founded in 2020 during the peak of the pandemic, they meticulously designed, engineered, and self-installed brewing equipment at their Tuas facility. Having crafted an impressive repertoire of 72 different beers, Alive Brewing Co is committed to providing craft beer lovers with high-quality alternatives to premium imported beers. Prices start at S$8.30.

Order here: alivebrewing.co

PINK BLOSSOMS BREWING

Pink Blossoms Brewing captures attention with its whimsical and intriguing collections. With offerings like the seasonal offering “Let It Be” and the intense drink “Don’t Stop Believing,” there’s something for every palate.

Lean on Me, a New England pale ale with citrus and stonefruit hop aromas, offers a refreshing alternative. The 6-Pack Beer selection starts at S$65.90.

Order here: pinkblossomsbrewing.com

THE ORIENTALIST SPIRITS

Founded by Michel Lu, The Orientalist Spirits embraces the allure of Asian botanicals, sourcing ingredients from Tibet, South Korea, and Taiwan. With expressions of gin like Gunpowder Gin and The Orientalist 23, alongside the intriguing Dragon Whiskey and Asian vodka expressions, it stands as one of the finest local alcohol brands in Singapore.

Image Credits: theorientalistspirits.com

Prices start at S$118, and tasting sessions are offered twice a day from Wednesday to Saturday.

Order here: theorientalistspirits.com

SINGAPORE DISTILLERY

Singapore Distillery made waves by introducing six craft gins crafted in Ang Mo Kio. Founder Ashwin Sekaran ingeniously utilizes fresh and exotic spices and fruits native to Singapore, resulting in creative variations of the iconic Singapore Sling.

Unique offerings include Stolen Roses Gin, an homage to the bandung drink, and Coconut Pandan Gin. Priced at S$69.90, these gins showcase the brand’s innovative take on the classic spirit.

Order here: singaporedistillery.com

BRASS LION DISTILLERY

Founder Jamie Koh embarked on a six-year odyssey across the globe to bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the Brass Lion Distillery.

At the core of Brass Lion’s offerings is the Singapore Dry Gin (S$98), a testament to the distillery’s dedication to quality. The menu has since expanded to feature captivating variations like the Pearl Jasmine Gin (S$108) and Butterfly Pea Flower Gin (S$108), each a visual and flavorful delight, especially enjoyed during the nighttime ambiance.

Order here: brassliondistillery.com/collections/drink

NIANG BREWERY CO

Niang Brewery Co embarked on its journey with meticulous planning and design to extract the best flavors from each beer. Constantly innovating and experimenting with diverse flavors, their creations ensure a distinct drinking experience.

Image Credits: facebook.com/niangbreweryco

Notable is “Only Fun,” (S$45) an Asian rice lager with a bright floral and lemon aroma, sweetness from the rice, and a crisp bitterness. While, the 6-pack of Lucid Dreams – Fruited Stout is available for S$59.

Order here: niangbrewery.co

What are you waiting for? Savor the essence of Singapore’s rich and diverse brewing culture today! Drink responsibly. 

Sources: 1 & 2

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Evolution of Forex Trading: Navigating the Dynamic Landscape

Forex trading, an intricate tapestry woven from the threads of global economies, has evolved into a dynamic and multifaceted industry, presenting both challenges and opportunities. Understanding the historical trajectory and the contemporary nuances of this market is paramount for traders, whether they are novices embarking on their financial journey or seasoned professionals seeking to harness its vast potential.

Historical Overview

The roots of forex trading are closely linked with those of economic history in general, with an important milestone being marked by the Bretton Woods Agreement in 1944. This accord laid the groundwork for an exchange rate system that would be fixed, setting the stage for international monetary cooperation. However, it was the subsequent shift in the early 1970s to an exchange rate system that was “floating” that catalyzed the modern era of forex trading. This move unleashed currencies to fluctuate based on market forces, leading to what would go on to become the decentralized and 24-hour market that we recognize today.

Role of Brokers

Brokers are an integral part of the system, and they do their job by offering trading platforms that empower individuals to buy and sell currencies. It’s within this framework that legitimate forex trading platforms come to the forefront, serving as reliable intermediaries facilitating access to the global forex market.

The Necessity of Broker Licenses

A linchpin in the forex trading ecosystem is the acquisition of a broker license, a regulatory imprimatur that distinguishes reputable brokers from their counterparts. Regulatory bodies such as CySEC, FSCA, and ASIC bestow these licenses upon brokers who demonstrate a commitment to financial regulations, ethical business practices, and the protection of client funds. The importance of broker licenses cannot be overstated, and popular platforms tend to exemplify this commitment, ensuring a secure trading environment for their clientele.

Guarding Against Scam Brokers

The allure of the forex market also attracts less scrupulous entities—scam brokers seeking to exploit unsuspecting traders. These unregistered and unauthorized actors can pose a threat to the integrity of the industry. Regulatory bodies globally actively combat such malpractices, emphasizing the crucial role of broker licenses in identifying trustworthy platforms. Services like OctaFX, FBS, and IQ Option, being stalwarts in the industry, prioritize the safety of their traders by adhering to stringent regulatory standards.

Forex Trading: An Ever-Evolving Landscape

The evolution of the forex market marches in tandem with technological advancements, giving rise to sophisticated trading platforms. These platforms are instrumental in executing trades, providing real-time data, and offering advanced analysis tools. The continuous interplay between forex trading, reputable brokers, and cutting-edge trading platforms showcases the industry’s adaptability and resilience in the face of changing global dynamics.

Educational Imperative for Traders

In an industry as dynamic as forex trading, education emerges as a powerful tool for traders who are new to the game, as well as those who are already veterans. Continuous learning equips traders with the knowledge needed to navigate the ever-evolving landscape, make better decisions, and guard against potential pitfalls. Platforms are constantly competing for users, so it is in their best interest to offer traders more than just a simple trading system, but other resources as well, such as guides and educational materials.

Conclusion

As forex trading continues to shape the global financial landscape, understanding its history, the role of brokers, and the significance of broker licenses remains paramount. The ability to adapt, stay informed, and choose reputable brokers like OctaFX, for example, is key to success in this dynamic industry. The ongoing evolution of forex trading, coupled with the safeguards provided by broker licenses, ensures a resilient and trustworthy place for traders worldwide to operate.

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6 Must-Visit Work & Chill Spots in Singapore

Embracing the work-from-home lifestyle has become a lasting reality in the wake of the pandemic. Yet, the challenges of navigating domestic distractions have prompted many to seek out alternative workspaces.

Fortunately, Singapore offers a plethora of work-friendly cafes, each providing a sanctuary of productivity with free Wi-Fi and a serene ambiance that harmonizes with the hum of laptop keys.

SOUL BREW

Nestled within the Holiday Inn in Little India, Soul Brew is a hidden gem, providing a work-friendly lounge with robust Wi-Fi and versatile seating options. Open from 8 am to 9 pm, it offers a haven to rest, recharge, and refuel. Indulge in delectable offerings, from the refreshing Cream of Mushroom Soup (S$14) to the hearty Stir-Fried Vegetarian Pad Thai (S$14).

Image Credits: ihg.com

Website: holidayinn.com/soulbrew
Location: 10 Farrer Park Station Rd, Floor 1 Holiday Inn Singapore, Singapore 217564

GENIUS CENTRAL

Genius Central is a sprawling workspace where the hunt for a charging point is a thing of the past. Tailored for serious hustling, it offers a variety of seating, along with 4-hour or 8-hour day passes. Fuel your workday with nourishing Longevity Bowls (from S$18) and organic brunch fare, complemented by spice lattes and fresh juices.

Website: geniuscentralsingapore.com
Location: 7-13 Amoy Street, Far East Square, Singapore 049949

DEWGATHER

Dewgather, an elegant Melbourne-inspired cafe in Buona Vista, captivates with dusky pink tones and a glass canopy. Beyond its aesthetic charm, the culinary experience goes beyond brunch staples. Indulge in delights like the Hummus In The Pan (S$18) and Sweet Potato Fries with Chilli Mayo (S$11), paired with expertly brewed coffees and refreshing kombuchas.

Image Credits: dewgather.com

Website: dewgather.com
Location: Vista Exchange Green, #01-46 The Star Vista, Singapore 138617

TWENTY EIGHT CAFE

Tucked along Wilkie Road, Twenty Eight Cafe offers a bright and airy space with ample natural light. Whether you’re a solo digital nomad or collaborating on group projects, the cafe caters to your needs. Savor affordably-priced coffees and a hearty brunch menu, from the Egg Benny (S$18) to the Sakura Ebi Angel Hair Pasta (S$18).

Website: twentyeightcafe.com
Location: #01-06, 28 Wilkie Rd, Singapore 228051

PLAIN VANILLA

Located in Tiong Bahru, Plain Vanilla beckons with a bright and open sanctuary. Immerse yourself in delightful offerings like the Smashed Avocado Toast (S$20) and the seasonal special Bread Pudding (S$15). Complement your meal with coffee and other house-made beverages.

Website: plainvanilla.com.sg
Location: Different locations including 1D Yong Siak St, Singapore 168641

AN ACAI AFFAIR

My mother is a fan of açaí bowls, and she has them once a week. One of the eateries she frequents is An Acai Affair. An Acai Affair in Bukit Timah offers a serene space for work or study, complete with free Wi-Fi. Revel in the purest form of organic açaí bowls while you admire the aesthetics. Then, order a bowl starting at S$6.90, and dive into your work tasks with undivided focus.

Website: anacaiaffair.com
Location: Different locations including 617 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 269718

Image Credits: facebook.com/anacaiaffair

Whether completing a crucial project or preparing for a client meeting, embrace the enduring trend of pandemic-driven remote work. Elevate your productivity by exploring the featured top work cafes in Singapore for a conducive (and chill) work environment.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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