Latest news with #MOHAsia
Straits Times
19 hours ago
- Politics
- Straits Times
Brazil's Supreme Court threatens Bolsonaro with arrest if interviews published on social media
SAO PAULO - Brazil's Supreme Court said on Monday former President Jair Bolsonaro may be arrested if his press interviews are published on social media, raising questions about whether the right-wing leader is allowed to talk to journalists, as he faces backlash over the 50% tariffs U.S. President Donald Trump imposed on Brazil. In a court order issued on Monday, Brazilian Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who oversees a criminal case in which Bolsonaro is accused of plotting a coup, said any attempt to circumvent the ruling could result in the former president's arrest. On Friday, Moraes had ordered Bolsonaro to wear an ankle bracelet and banned him from using social media, among other measures, over allegations he courted the interference of Trump, who tied the new levies on Brazil to what he called a "witch hunt" against Bolsonaro. In an interview with Reuters on Friday, Bolsonaro described Moraes' decision to prohibit his social media use as "cowardice," and said he intended to continue engaging with the press to ensure his voice was heard. But Monday's ruling clarified that the restrictive measures also applied to Bolsonaro's use of social media through third parties. Bolsonaro canceled an interview with a local news outlet that would have been broadcast on YouTube on Monday. "Obviously, the broadcasting, rebroadcasting, or dissemination of audio, video, or transcripts of interviews on any third-party social media platforms is prohibited," the judge wrote. It is unclear if the measure amounts to a prohibition of all interviews. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Subsidies and grants for some 20,000 people miscalculated due to processing issue: MOH Asia At least 19 killed as Bangladesh air force plane crashes at college campus Singapore ST Explains: What does it mean for etomidate to be listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act? Business Why Singapore and its businesses stand to lose with US tariffs on the region Singapore NTU to have compulsory cadaver dissection classes for medical students from 2026 World US authorities probing passenger jet's close call with B-52 bomber over North Dakota Singapore Jail for man who conspired with another to bribe MOH agency employee with $18k Paris trip Singapore New research institute will grow S'pore's talent in nuclear energy, safety "The prohibition is that he communicates on social media; it is not a prohibition against third parties speaking about him, whether to praise or criticize," said Ivar Hartmann, a law professor at Sao Paulo business school Insper. He added that, in his view, interviews are permissible, provided they are not intended to circumvent the legal limitations, such as giving an interview to a supporter. But Vera Chemim, a São Paulo-based constitutional lawyer, said she believed the former leader is now on shaky ground, noting that interviews, while not explicitly mentioned in the court order, could still be used to justify Bolsonaro's arrest. "Bolsonaro is now completely silenced," she said. "Any misstep could lead to a preventive arrest." On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Moraes' court orders a "political witch hunt" that had prompted him to make immediate visa revocations for "Moraes and his allies on the court, as well as their immediate family members." The Supreme Court declined to comment or elaborate on the specifics of the decision. A spokesperson for Bolsonaro also declined to comment, but the former president has always denied any wrongdoing. The court's crackdown on Bolsonaro added to evidence that Trump's tactics are backfiring in Brazil, compounding trouble for his ideological ally and rallying public support behind a defiant leftist government. REUTERS
Straits Times
19 hours ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Forum: Don't let eateries misuse the Michelin name to promote themselves
The recent release of the Michelin Bib Gourmand selection prompted me to reflect on how some food and beverage operators use the Michelin name in their marketing and publicity ( 11 new entries on Singapore's Bib Gourmand list, including three re-entries at Old Airport Road , July 17). Is there a governing body that regulates the use of the Michelin Guide label in commercial promotion? I have observed that certain establishments continue to promote themselves as Michelin-recognised years after being listed, often without specifying the year. This creates the impression that they are current awardees, which may no longer be the case. What I find more concerning is that some operators claim titles such as 'Singapore's No. 1 Michelin-Rated Best Selling (Dish)' despite having no record of being listed by the Michelin Guide at all. This not only misleads consumers, but also undermines the integrity and prestige of being recognised by the Michelin Guide. Given the weight the Michelin Guide carries among both residents and tourists, I believe there should be greater accountability and clarity in how its name is used. Shouldn't past awardees be required to state the year of the award in their promotional materials? And should there be penalties for those who make false claims? Just as companies cannot misuse official certifications or trademarks (such as halal or ISO marks), businesses should not be allowed to exploit the Michelin brand for marketing gain without proper basis. If left unchecked, such practices dilute the value of genuine accolades and mislead the public who rely on these endorsements when making dining decisions. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Subsidies and grants for some 20,000 people miscalculated due to processing issue: MOH Asia At least 19 killed as Bangladesh air force plane crashes at college campus Singapore ST Explains: What does it mean for etomidate to be listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act? Business Why Singapore and its businesses stand to lose with US tariffs on the region Singapore NTU to have compulsory cadaver dissection classes for medical students from 2026 World US authorities probing passenger jet's close call with B-52 bomber over North Dakota Singapore Jail for man who conspired with another to bribe MOH agency employee with $18k Paris trip Singapore New research institute will grow S'pore's talent in nuclear energy, safety I hope the relevant authorities, in collaboration with the Michelin Guide, will consider introducing clear guidelines or enforcement mechanisms to protect consumers and uphold the credibility of the Michelin distinction. Ray Lim
Straits Times
19 hours ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Forum: Sort out issues before imposing new taxi cancellation policies
I refer to the article ' ComfortDelGro to introduce new taxi cancellation, waiting fee policy ' (July 16). I used to book a taxi via the CDG Zig app quite often, but have been avoiding it lately for several reasons. Often, I get a notification that the taxi has arrived when it has not, and this makes me worry that I may be charged a late fee. There have also been instances where the taxi driver went to the wrong place and concluded that I did not turn up. He would leave after indicating a 'no show'. In one perplexing incident, the driver took my call, then proceeded to key it in as completed – meaning the destination had been reached – and charged me for the ride. It was only after I sent a screenshot, showing that he had started and ended the journey within the same minute, to customer service that I managed to get a refund. I often have taxi drivers not being able to locate my home, but this happens less often with the private-hire services. I hope ComfortDelGro will sort out the issues mentioned before imposing new taxi cancellation policies. Do Su Ern (Dr) Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Subsidies and grants for some 20,000 people miscalculated due to processing issue: MOH Asia At least 19 killed as Bangladesh air force plane crashes at college campus Singapore ST Explains: What does it mean for etomidate to be listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act? Business Why Singapore and its businesses stand to lose with US tariffs on the region Singapore NTU to have compulsory cadaver dissection classes for medical students from 2026 World US authorities probing passenger jet's close call with B-52 bomber over North Dakota Singapore Jail for man who conspired with another to bribe MOH agency employee with $18k Paris trip Singapore New research institute will grow S'pore's talent in nuclear energy, safety
Straits Times
19 hours ago
- Straits Times
Forum: Lots that kite-flying has to offer
Find out what's new on ST website and app. As someone who grew up flying kites, I was interested to read the article ' From toy to threat: 'Killer kites' bring chaos to Indonesian airspace ' (July 20). From the looks on the children's faces, I was reminded of the joy of watching a handmade kite catch the wind, the thrill of guiding it upwards, and the peaceful hours spent under the open sky. Of course, safety near airports must come first. Besides cracking down with confiscations and warnings, the authorities could consider creating designated kite-flying zones, invest in public education, and organise community events that celebrate this cultural tradition while protecting airspace. Today, many children are indoors, lost in the glow of screens and digital distractions. Kite-flying, which is simple, affordable and full of meaning, offers a good alternative. To me, it was not just play – it was also a way to connect with nature and feel freedom. It also taught me a deeper message – of the delicate balance between aspiration and control. Just like in life, a kite needs both the wind to soar and the string to stay grounded. Prakash Natarajan Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Subsidies and grants for some 20,000 people miscalculated due to processing issue: MOH Asia At least 19 killed as Bangladesh air force plane crashes at college campus Singapore ST Explains: What does it mean for etomidate to be listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act? Business Why Singapore and its businesses stand to lose with US tariffs on the region Singapore NTU to have compulsory cadaver dissection classes for medical students from 2026 World US authorities probing passenger jet's close call with B-52 bomber over North Dakota Singapore Jail for man who conspired with another to bribe MOH agency employee with $18k Paris trip Singapore New research institute will grow S'pore's talent in nuclear energy, safety
Straits Times
21 hours ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Nato allies Germany, Norway vow to step up North Atlantic surveillance
Find out what's new on ST website and app. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (right) and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store addressing a joint press conference in Berlin on July 21. BERLIN - Nato allies Germany and Norway agreed on July 21 to step up surveillance against maritime and airborne 'threats' in the northern Atlantic region amid high tensions with Russia over the Ukraine war. 'Germany and Norway aim to ensure stability and security in maritime areas, including in the High North,' said a joint statement released as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store in Berlin. The two countries also reaffirmed their 'unwavering support for Ukraine as it defends its freedom, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity against Russia's continued war of aggression.' Berlin and Oslo said that 'the North Atlantic, including the strategically crucial Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom (GIUK) and Bear gaps and adjacent waters, and the North and Baltic Seas, are crucial for both Norwegian and German security.' This, they said, was why their armed forces trained and patrolled the seas together and 'cooperate closely under Nato's Regional Plans', the statement added. During the Cold War, Nato kept close watch of the so-called GIUK gap, the key passageway for Soviet submarines and naval vessels from Arctic bases to enter the Atlantic Ocean. Germany and Norway said they would strengthen their 'surveillance and control over these strategic areas to counter potential threats, including maritime and airborne activities.' Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Subsidies and grants for some 20,000 people miscalculated due to processing issue: MOH Asia At least 19 killed as Bangladesh air force plane crashes at college campus Singapore ST Explains: What does it mean for etomidate to be listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act? Business Why Singapore and its businesses stand to lose with US tariffs on the region Singapore NTU to have compulsory cadaver dissection classes for medical students from 2026 World US authorities probing passenger jet's close call with B-52 bomber over North Dakota Singapore Jail for man who conspired with another to bribe MOH agency employee with $18k Paris trip Singapore New research institute will grow S'pore's talent in nuclear energy, safety They also said that their cooperation in the North Atlantic and North Sea would include 'enhanced protection of critical underwater infrastructure'. AFP
