Singapore has maintained its position as the fifth least corrupt country globally, as per the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index.
Since its inception in 1995, Singapore has been the sole Asian country consistently placed in the top 10. Over the years, it has ranked third in 2018 and 2020, fourth in 2019 and 2021, and currently sits at fifth in 2022 and 2023.
The index evaluates and compares countries based on their perceived levels of corruption in the public sector, utilizing a scale ranging from 0 (i.e., very corrupt) to 100 (i.e., very clean). Various aspects of public sector corruption, including bribery, misuse of public funds, and favoritism in civil service appointments, are taken into consideration.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 least corrupt countries in the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index 2023:
The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) revealed that expert opinions and business surveys contribute to the data collection process. The CPIB emphasized that this data stems from 13 external sources. Interestingly, the global average score stands at 43, with more than two-thirds of countries scoring below 50.
Singapore maintained its score of 83 in 2023, consistent with the previous year. The CPIB assured the public that corruption in Singapore remains well-managed, with the number of public sector corruption cases consistently low. Public Perception Surveys conducted regularly by the CPIB indicate a high level of public confidence in Singapore’s efforts to combat corruption.
“Singapore’s reputation as one of the least corrupt countries in the world is hard-earned,” according to CPIB.
In addition to the Transparency International index, Singapore excels in other corruption-related rankings. For instance, in the World Justice Project Rule of Law Index 2023, Singapore ranks third globally for the absence of corruption, making it the leading Asian nation among 142 countries.
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The CPIB highlights its commitment to working collaboratively with the community to maintain the integrity of Singapore’s governance. Moreover, the CPIB conducts its own Public Perception Surveys, further demonstrating the public’s strong confidence in Singapore’s anti-corruption endeavors.
In my quest for exciting activities and hidden gems within the Red Dot, a captivating advertisement caught my eye – “Impressions of Monet: The Garden” at Gardens by the Bay.
Mark your calendars because, from July 12, 2024, this exhibition promises to transport you into the enchanting world of Claude Monet, the renowned French painter.
BACKGROUND OF THE EXHIBITION
Enter the realm of Claude Monet (1840-1926), a visionary who not only pioneered but passionately championed the Impressionist style. Originating in France in the 1860s, Impressionism is a painting movement that focuses on capturing the visual essence of a moment, emphasizing the play of light and color.
Prepare for a truly immersive experience as a digital presentation breathes life into the timeless masterpieces of Claude Monet. Complementing this, a delightful floral arrangement painstakingly recreates the landscapes that fueled Monet’s creativity in Giverny, France.
Titled “Impressions of Monet,” the exhibit unfolds in two captivating zones: The Garden and The Experience. Step into The Garden at the Flower Dome, where you’ll be welcomed by scenes reminiscent of Monet’s own Giverny garden in France.
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Transition to The Experience, where several of Monet’s masterpieces come alive on the walls and ceiling. Amidst a lively symphony of strobe lights and tunes, you’re invited to roam freely, becoming part of the living canvas.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Revel in the recreation of Monet’s iconic pink house and its garden, now the second most visited tourist attraction in Normandy, France. Explore the adjacent Clos Normand garden and the serene Water Garden, both integral to Monet’s later works. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the beauty of hydrangeas, weeping willows, digitalis, daisies, delphiniums, and geraniums – all echoing the flora of Monet’s original gardens.
What’s more? Feast your eyes on the green Japanese bridge and water lilies, subjects immortalized in Monet’s renowned Water Lilies series.
This multi-sensory adventure is a deep dive into the heart of French Impressionism, offering glimpses of 19th-century Europe through the eyes of Monet and his fellow Impressionist painters.
Get lost in the grandeur of famous, inspirational images set to a powerful classical score. Watch as paintings are projected at an enormous scale, illuminating the bold brushstrokes of Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, and many other luminaries.
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Don’t miss out on this extraordinary exhibition running from July 12 to September 15, 2024, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Admission ticket prices start at S$8 for Singapore residents. Prepare to embark on a journey into the captivating world of Monet’s artistry – an experience that promises to linger in your heart and Instagram feed alike!
V’Day is around the corner and we’ve found THE gift for all the K-beauty lovers out there.
Say hello to the newest V’Day K-beauty box, typically valued at over $212. But here’s the real cherry on top: this treasure box of skincare and beauty goodies can be yours for a mere $67.
Yes, you read that right! It’s a deal that’s as sweet as a box of chocolates, but way more beneficial for your skin.
Here are all the products you’re getting your hands on.
numbuzin No. 3 Super Glowing Essence Toner 200mL Special Set (Special Gift: 50mL)
First on our list, we have numbuzin No.3 Super Glowing Essence Toner, the toner that takes the glow up to the next level.
While regular toners cleanse, this essence toner packs a punch with 50 fermented ingredients that fill the skin moistly without stickiness. In just two weeks, it promises to increase radiance by over 50% for dull complexions lacking elasticity.
The thick texture nourishes the skin from within, leaving it supple. The subtle yellowish hue comes from the nutrient-dense formula designed for skin that desperately needs revitalizing. Bonus: includes a 50ml travel bottle so you can continue your K-beauty routine while traveling.
BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original 100mL
A multi-award winning cleansing balm that removes even the most stubborn waterproof makeup with ease.
This all-in-one balm cleanser lifts away dirt and oil buildup while fruit extracts hydrate and nourish the skin. The low irritant formula removes ultra-fine dust up to 91.5% and instantly reduces the appearance of blackheads, so you can say goodbye to that bumpy complexion.
Simply massage the balm over your skin, rinse off and your face is left fresh and youthful looking. No extra soap needed.
colorgram Fruity Glass Tint 10 Colors
Treat your lips to a kaleidoscope of fruity colors that glows for hours with this set of 10 glass tint lip colors from colorgram.
Each shade provides a glow along with sweet, juicy tones that immediately show upon application and leave your lips dewy and shimmery. Choose from pearl gloss, apricot orange for spring, grapefruit orange for bright tones, cool peach for summer, berry pink for warm tones, guava pink for cool-toned skin, raspberry red for all, mulberry mauve for winter, and more.
The glossy formula glides on smoothly and lasts through your day, evening up your complexion with a dose of fruity color that’s sure to attract compliments.
lilybyred Mood Keyboard 8 Colors
Next, bring your lids to life with these mood-shifting lilybyred glitters. The eight-color sets allow you to customize and match your vibe, from the cozy ash cinnamon shade to the cheerful cheese plate yellow.
The ultra-fine glitters adhere moistly, providing a glow that’s as soft and fluffy as a marshmallow. An optimized oil blend gives the glitters a lightweight texture that coats your lids in sheer shimmer without feeling heavy or sticky.
Whether you choose the rose dial for a pop of soft pink or the lavender dial for a hint of dreamy purple, these glitters will be with you every step of the way.
Dewytree Pick and Quick Refreshing Aqua Mask Sheet
Revive your complexion with this refreshing aqua mask sheet that delivers a triple dose of hydration.
The Dewytree Pick and Quick mask contains hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, and sodium acetylated hyaluronate to moisturize dehydrated skin. Glycolic acid gently exfoliates, smoothing away dead skin cells for a brighter complexion.
Use this convenient sheet mask daily for a quick pick-me-up, or before applying makeup to prep skin for optimal coverage. The serum-soaked sheet drenches skin in moisture, leaving you with a healthy-looking complexion that’s camera-ready.
UNOVE Heating Guard No-Wash Treatment 147 mL
A treatment for heat-styled hair that you don’t need to wash out. UNOVE Heating Guard No-Wash Treatment infuses keratin into damaged strands to detangle, soften, and fill in cuticles.
The formula, scented with citrus and floral notes, contains keratin and amino acids to seal the hair cuticle, eliminating frizz while moisturizing dry cuticles. Plant oils including olive, macadamia, argan, and camellia penetrate the hair shaft, locking in moisture and adding softness and strength.
Apply to towel-dried hair before heat styling for heat protection that leaves hair manageable, frizz-free, and shiny all day long.
Dewytree AC CTRL Deep Green Calming Clay Gel Pore Pack 10 mL (FREE GIFT)
Make this a new addition to your skincare routine. This cooling clay gel pore pack improves your complexion while keeping your skin cooled and calm.
The six-layered clay absorbs sebum and impurities, clearing pores with non-drying ingredients. Even sensitive skin types can benefit from its soothing properties, thanks to its gentle irritant-tested formulation. Centella Asiatica extract and peppermint work hand in hand to soothe and heal overheated skin, reducing redness and discomfort.
A 10 mL tube great for testing if you’re thinking of purchasing the full 100 mL size. It comes as a complimentary gift with your V’Day K-beauty box so you can decide if it’s a skincare essential you need later.
Deciding on the ideal amount to spend on an engagement ring has been a timeless debate, often surrounded by varying opinions.
As I vividly recall our search for the perfect engagement ring, my partner presented me with various options and price ranges, all of which he planned to order from the United States. Ultimately, we chose a dreamy topaz set on rose gold for just under S$500. While this may be considered a modest price tag by some, I preferred to invest in our future lives together after the wedding. The joy I felt when he finally proposed with the ring was immeasurable.
While the classic rule suggests investing three months’ salary, emphasizing the significance of a lifelong commitment, a more thoughtful approach to ring budgeting becomes essential in the face of challenges like rising prices, inflation, and economic volatility induced by the pandemic.
UNDERSTANDING THE AVERAGE COST
Selecting the perfect engagement ring requires insight into the average costs. While the two-month salary guideline, originating from the Great Depression era, was once prevalent, it’s crucial to recognize its outdated nature.
In Singapore, engagement ring prices generally range from S$700 to S$100,000, with the most common choice being a 0.5-1.0 carat diamond priced between S$1,230.90 to S$2,066.30. A key takeaway is that the price escalates with the carat weight.
GRASPING THE FOUR Cs
Delving into the intricacies of engagement ring prices, factors like carat, cut, clarity, and color significantly influence the overall cost. A higher clarity grade commands a higher price, as flawless gems, detectable only under powerful microscopes, come with a premium.
The cut of the diamond, with the round brilliant being the most expensive, and the type of chosen band are vital considerations contributing to the overall expense. For example, there is a S$15 difference between an oval cut and a round cut 0.3-carat ring of SI2 clarity. Additionally, emerald-cut diamonds can be anywhere from 12% to 42% cheaper than round diamonds of the same carat.
CREATING A RING BUDGET
Similar to planning a wedding budget, setting a reasonable engagement ring budget is paramount. Evaluate your financial standing, considering salary and savings, and establish a budget that aligns with your preferences and capabilities.
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Utilize spreadsheets to create a tangible plan, factoring in additional costs like jewelry insurance. Strive for a special ring without harming your financial stability. And, explore payment plans or financing options responsibly. Ask yourself: Do you really need to take out a personal loan for this?
SHOPPING AROUND
In the pursuit of the perfect ring, don’t hesitate to explore various options. Resist the impulse to settle for the first option, and instead, compare prices across different designs and jewelers.
Educate yourself on high-quality jewelry and confidently navigate through price points, acknowledging that the national average may not necessarily apply to your unique financial situation.
OPTING FOR VINTAGE
Vintage or antique engagement rings present an alluring alternative. Apart from their historical charm, these rings often come at a more affordable price compared to contemporary options.
Delve into the nuances of eras, ensuring awareness of any alterations the ring may have undergone over time. Your dream ring might be a yellow-gold band from the Art Nouveau era, carrying a distinct character. You can buy vintage pieces from Revival Vintage Jewels at Wheelock Place.
EXPLORING NON-DIAMOND OPTIONS
With the surge in popularity of non-diamond engagement rings, considering alternatives like precious stones becomes viable. These options not only offer a potentially more affordable choice but also provide a chance to symbolically personalize the ring.
Embrace the uniqueness of birthstones such as sapphire, emerald, or ruby rings. Sapphire rings is the most expensive among non-traditional options, averaging S$1,075.29 for a 0.5-carat ring.
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In the pursuit of the perfect engagement ring, combining emotions with practical considerations leads to a more meaningful choice. Best of luck!
Have you ever found yourself frustrated with the sluggish performance of your laptop? It is a common issue, but the good news is that there are steps you can take to not just survive but thrive with a faster and more efficient laptop in 2024.
Before you consider investing in a new device or ordering a new one, let us explore some positive measures you can adopt.
PLAN YOUR PROGRAMS
Is your laptop burdened by resource-heavy programs? Regain control and boost speed by identifying and managing these programs. On a PC, the Task Manager is your ally, helping you pinpoint which programs are consuming the most resources. By closing unnecessary applications, you can reallocate resources to those that matter, significantly enhancing overall performance.
REFRESH YOUR DISK
Give your laptop a fresh start by cleaning up your disk. Perform a Disk Cleanup to remove unnecessary files and temporary data. This not only frees up valuable space but also contributes to quicker file retrieval, allowing your computer to operate more efficiently.
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ENHANCE YOUR LAPTOP’S MEMORY
If your laptop feels memory-starved, consider upgrading its RAM. This upgrade can unleash improved performance, speed, and responsiveness. More memory allows for seamless multitasking, but before you make any upgrades, ensure compatibility with your device by checking for the right RAM hardware.
OPTIMIZE YOUR WEB EXPERIENCE
Don’t let slow web browsing hinder your productivity. Ensure you have the latest version of your web browser installed and remove unnecessary add-ons and extensions that might be dragging down your online experience. Keeping your browser up to date and streamlining your online activities can result in a smoother performance.
STREAMLINE YOUR WORKFLOW
Simplify your workflow by closing unnecessary apps, focusing on one task at a time, and adopting battery-conserving habits such as enabling Airplane mode or turning off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not needed. This practice, akin to turning off lights in an empty room, can significantly improve your laptop’s overall performance.
DECLUTTER YOUR DIGITAL SPACE
Just as cleaning out your physical space is essential, regular maintenance of your computer’s files is crucial. Delete unnecessary files, especially large ones like high-resolution images or videos, and empty the recycle bin regularly. This habit ensures your laptop remains clutter-free and operates at its best.
UNINSTALL BARELY USED PROGRAMS
Speaking of decluttering, you can uninstall programs for a smoother laptop experience! Uninstall unused programs to free up valuable disk space and speed up file searches.
Simply open the Control Panel, select Programs and Features, right-click on the unwanted program, and hit Uninstall. It’s like tidying up your room – saying goodbye to what you don’t need and creating space for what matters. Treat your laptop to a Marie Kondo moment, and enjoy faster searches and a tidier digital space.
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Embark on the journey to a faster, more efficient laptop experience with these proactive steps. As we usher in Lunar New Year 2024, thrive with technology that keeps up with your pace! Before you contemplate saying goodbye to your current laptop, try implementing these strategies to breathe new life into your device.
