Latest news with #WalterLeong
Straits Times
18-07-2025
- Health
- Straits Times
Man in New York wearing neck chain is pulled into MRI machine, police say
NEW YORK - A man who entered an MRI room during a scan in Westbury, New York, on July 16, was pulled into the machine by his chain necklace and was hospitalised in critical condition, authorities said. The man, who is 61, was wearing a 'large metallic chain' around his neck when he entered the room at Nassau Open MRI, according to the Nassau County Police Department, on Long Island. The man, whom the police did not name, did not have authorisation to enter the room, authorities said. Nassau Open MRI did not immediately respond to a request for comment. MRI machines use magnets and radio frequency currents to produce detailed anatomical images. The magnetic force of an MRI machine is strong enough to fling a wheelchair across a room, according to the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering. Patients are advised to remove jewelry and piercings before entering an MRI machine, and people with some medical implants, particularly those containing iron, should not undergo MRI scans, the institute said. Injuries and deaths involving MRI machines have occurred in the past. In 2001, a six-year-old boy died when a metal oxygen tank was pulled into a machine while he was undergoing a scan. A man died in India in 2018 when he entered an MRI room carrying an oxygen tank. In 2023, a nurse in California was crushed and needed surgery after she was pinned between an MRI machine and a hospital bed that was pulled toward the machine by the machine's magnetic force. Nassau Open MRI offers closed and open MRI scans, according to its website. An open MRI involves a machine that is open at the sides rather than a closed tube. NYTIMES Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. World Trump diagnosed with vein condition causing leg swelling: White House World Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency. What is it? Singapore 5 foreigners charged over scheme to deliberately get arrested in S'pore to sell sex drugs here Asia Appointment of Malaysia's new chief justice eases controversy over vacant top judge seats for now Singapore Driverless bus in Sentosa gets green light to run without safety officer in first for S'pore Singapore SPCA appoints Walter Leong as new executive director World US strikes destroyed only one of three Iranian nuclear sites, says new report Business Granddaughter of late Indonesian tycoon pays $25 million for Singapore bungalow
Straits Times
18-07-2025
- Straits Times
Global Design: Soak in Iceland's bathing culture
REYKJAVIK – Iceland's most famous thermal hot spring is undoubtedly Blue Lagoon, known for its milky blue waters. But Iceland's bathing culture goes beyond this hot spot, with more than 100 hot springs and heated pools dotted around the country. Icelanders have been soaking in hot springs for almost 1,000 years – and they are still at it today. Even the tiniest towns have a sundlaug (swimming pool in Icelandic) with all the works: hot tubs, cold plunges, saunas and waterslides, at entry fees as low as 1,000 Icelandic krona (S$10.46). In fact, Iceland's bathing culture has been nominated for Unesco's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which, if successful, is set to be awarded in December. While Icelanders have their favourite watering holes, there are also dedicated facilities which attract travellers keen to experience outdoor bathing. The best known of these is the Blue Lagoon, which became famed for its therapeutic waters in the 1980s. Located 45 minutes by car from Reykjavik city centre, it attracts over a million visitors a year. If you have visited an onsen in Japan , you will find the pre-bath routine familiar: Scrub down until you are squeaky clean before even thinking about dipping your toes in the water. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. World Trump diagnosed with vein condition causing leg swelling: White House World Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency. What is it? Singapore 5 foreigners charged over scheme to deliberately get arrested in S'pore to sell sex drugs here Asia Appointment of Malaysia's new chief justice eases controversy over vacant top judge seats for now Singapore Driverless bus in Sentosa gets green light to run without safety officer in first for S'pore Singapore SPCA appoints Walter Leong as new executive director World US strikes destroyed only one of three Iranian nuclear sites, says new report Business Granddaughter of late Indonesian tycoon pays $25 million for Singapore bungalow But, unlike onsens, swimsuits are a must – no naked lounging here – as the pools are not segregated by gender. When I casually ask if I can go without a bathing suit, I am greeted with an aghast 'no, no, no' from an Icelander. However, they are not shy about nudity in the shower and dressing areas. The rules regarding food and drink are a little less strict. While food is not allowed, you can enjoy a cold beverage, including beer and cocktails, while you luxuriate in the warm water. Cold drinking water is free for when you feel dehydrated. You can refuel with soup, sandwiches and snacks at the end, after you get dressed and exit the pools. The greatest pleasure of the Icelandic bath experience is the delicious contrast between hot and cold, especially if you brave the sub-zero winter. Imagine gazing out on an all-white landscape, your body submerged in balmy waters while snowflakes land on your face. Steam rooms and saunas further heat up the body, while cold mist rooms and icy plunge pools provide an invigorating shock to the system. I am too chicken to dip more than a toe into the cold pools, but I witness brave souls taking the plunge and emerging looking almost victorious. Taking a selfie of your blissed-out face is also not frowned upon. In fact, you will spot many bathers with their phones in rented waterproof casing, casually snapping photos of themselves half-naked against the gorgeous scenery. Compared with onsen waters, which can go up to 42 deg C, Icelandic springs are a few degrees cooler – which means longer, more luxurious lounging. As a huge fan of simmering myself until I turn into a prune, I take the chance while on a recent driving holiday around Iceland to soak my travel-weary bones at three very different baths – from the utilitarian to the luxurious. Myvatn Nature Baths Myvatn Nature Baths is filled with mineral-rich geothermal water. PHOTO: MYVATN NATURE BATHS/FACEBOOK After hiking around a volcano for two hours, we pull up at Myvatn Nature Baths (7,400 Icelandic krona for one adult; ) in the north with sore calves and zero expectations – and, after a good soak, float out in a state of bliss. Surrounded by the stunning Lake Myvatn, this man-made lagoon is rich in minerals and boasts the same milky blue water as Blue Lagoon. It attracts far fewer tourists due to its remote location, though a busload of them were dropped off while we were there. The water at Myvatn Nature Baths contains more sulphur than other thermal springs. PHOTO: MYVATN NATURE BATHS/FACEBOOK There is the characteristic stink of rotten eggs in the air, as the water here contains more sulphur than other thermal springs. The mineral is said to be beneficial for skin, due to its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties. This is the only place where we are advised to remove jewellery, which may turn black due to a chemical reaction with the water. Though the utilitarian facilities are a little tired – a new building is due to be ready in 2026 – the steamy spring is exactly what we need to rejuvenate us. We drink in the peaceful views over the lake, as well as a well-deserved icy adult beverage. Vok Baths The Icelandic blend of nature and modernity is seen in the interiors of Vok Baths, with warm wood, smooth concrete and geometric shapes. PHOTO: VOK BATHS/FACEBOOK The day before we arrive at Vok Baths (7,490 Icelandic krona for one adult; ) in the eastern part of Iceland, we just about wreck our knees on a four-hour hike up and down a glacier. A steaming hot bath is the perfect remedy. From the outside, all that can be seen is a grass-covered roof which merges seamlessly into the landscape, and discreet glass doors which lead to the lobby. This Icelandic blend of nature and modernity is seen in the interiors as well, with warm wood, smooth concrete and geometric shapes being a large part of the minimalist design. Wood planks surround its three floating pools of varying temperatures up to 41 deg C, where bathers – both local and tourist – mingle while taking in the panoramic views over Lake Urrioavatn, arguably even more stunning than Lake Myvatn. Vok Baths has three floating pools, where bathers mingle while taking in the panoramic views. PHOTO: VOK BATHS/FACEBOOK When it gets too hot, we nip into the rain mist tunnel, where it is a refreshing 10 deg C. But I draw the line at submerging my entire body in the lake, where the water temperature goes down from 18 deg C in summer to 0 deg C in winter. Sky Lagoon Possibly the most luxe hot spring – with an admission price to match – Sky Lagoon (from 15,990 Icelandic krona for one adult; ) is also the most accessible from capital Reykjavik, just 10 minutes away by car, making it the most tourist-friendly of the three hot springs we visit. Seemingly carved out of rugged black rocks, the man-made pool is sleek yet simple, once again embodying the Icelandic design ethos that embraces nature. Seemingly carved out of rugged black rocks, Sky Lagoon boasts stunning sauna facilities and a rain mist room. PHOTO: SKY LAGOON ICELAND/FACEBOOK Do not skip the meditative seven-step ritual, which starts with soaking in the natural warmth of the geothermal water, followed by an invigorating cold plunge into a 5 deg C pool. Next is the most impressive sauna I have ever sizzled in, with a huge pane of floor-to-ceiling glass facing the water. Sky Lagoon's sauna has a huge pane of floor-to-ceiling glass facing the water. PHOTO: SKY LAGOON ICELAND/FACEBOOK On a good day, you can admire the cone-shaped Keilir mountain, a 700,000-year-old glacier and even the Northern Lights, while the heat opens every pore on the body. Cool down after that with the minus 5 deg C rain mist – an almost religious experience, with sleek bodies standing silently under the fine drizzle, faces turned to the sky. After a sauna session at Sky Lagoon, guests can cool down with a minus 5 deg C rain mist. PHOTO: SKY LAGOON ICELAND/FACEBOOK Following that, I slough off a layer of dead skin with a salt scrub before entering the dark, womb-like steam room to once again embrace the heat. The final step is a shot of an Icelandic elixir, made with tart crowberries from the lava fields. I emerge from this sanctuary relaxed and radiant. And the lingering sniffles I have been nursing for days are miraculously gone.
Straits Times
18-07-2025
- Straits Times
Design News: JBL headphones with transmitter, new Thermomix store, cordless Bosch vacuum cleaner
Find out what's new on ST website and app. JBL's Tour One M3 Smart Tx headphones Audio brand JBL's newest listening device, the JBL Tour One M3 Smart Tx ($499), has been billed by industry pundits as a game changer. The over-ear headphones set comes with its own audio transmitter, the JBL Smart Tx. This transmitter can be plugged into any USB-C or 3.5mm aux audio jack, not just on phones or tablets, but also on aeroplane in-flight entertainment systems. After the transmitter is plugged in, the user can listen wirelessly to the audio output. No wires or fiddling with the Bluetooth connection are required, although the latter is also available on the headphones for devices that do not have any audio output source. The headphones and transmitter also, in tandem, support Auracast, a Bluetooth feature that allows for a single audio source to be streamed to multiple receiving devices. The Tour One M3 Smart Tx is equipped with JBL's True Adaptive Noise Cancelling 2.0 feature, which lets users control the amount of noise cancelled or filtered through, via the JBL Headphones app. JBL says the headphones offers up to 70 hours of playback when fully charged, with another five hours from a five-minute quick charge. Separately, the Smart Tx transmitter promises up to 18 hours of battery life. Info: Available from JBL online at and selected JBL authorised dealers Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. World Trump diagnosed with vein condition causing leg swelling: White House World Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency. What is it? Singapore 5 foreigners charged over scheme to deliberately get arrested in S'pore to sell sex drugs here Asia Appointment of Malaysia's new chief justice eases controversy over vacant top judge seats for now Singapore Driverless bus in Sentosa gets green light to run without safety officer in first for S'pore Singapore SPCA appoints Walter Leong as new executive director World US strikes destroyed only one of three Iranian nuclear sites, says new report Business Granddaughter of late Indonesian tycoon pays $25 million for Singapore bungalow Thermomix experiential store opens at The Cathay The new Thermomix experiential store at The Cathay. PHOTO: VORWERK A new experiential store dedicated to German multi-cooking appliance Thermomix has opened at Level 2 of The Cathay. The 5,000 sq ft store is expected to host cooking demonstrations using the Thermomix, as well as workshops and masterclasses. In conjunction with the store's opening, the brand has also launched its latest appliance, the Thermomix TM7 ($2,980). The TM7 offers food preparation and cooking functions such as blending, kneading, sous vide and fermentation. The functions are controlled via a 10-inch multi-touch display on the appliance, which is loaded with the brand's proprietary recipe platform, Cookidoo. Info: Pre-orders are open online at for the Thermomix TM7, with the product expected to ship in August Bosch's Ultimate 10 cordless vacuum cleaner The new Ultimate 10 vacuum cleaner has a sensor that can detect dirt and dust particles as small as 0.3 micrometres. PHOTO: BOSCH German appliance brand Bosch says its new Ultimate 10 cordless vacuum cleaner (from $1,299) will not just suck up dust and dirt. It will also inform you once the area that you are vacuuming is clean. The device comes with a MicroClean sensor that can reportedly detect particles as small as 0.3 micrometres. Once the area is clean, a ring on the motor component will light up in blue. The vacuum cleaner weighs around 3.7kg and comes with a few different nozzles, include a mini nozzle, upholstery nozzle and a flexible nozzle. The flexible nozzle has a joint that can be bent, which makes for easier vacuuming under furniture such as the bed or sofa. Other notable features include dust box compression, which translates to less frequent emptying of the dust box, and a TurboSpin motor promising up to 70,000 revolutions per minute and between 80 and 100 minutes of run time. The motor comes with a 10-year guarantee. Info: Available from retailers including Shopee, Lazada, Courts and Gain City
Straits Times
18-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
SPCA appoints Walter Leong as new executive director
Find out what's new on ST website and app. PHOTO: SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS Mr Walter Leong will take over as SPCA's new executive director from July 18. SINGAPORE – The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has appointed Mr Walter Leong as its new executive director, it said in a statement on J uly 18 . He takes over from Ms Aarthi Sankar, who has held the role since November 2021. Mr Leong has held senior roles across the private, public and non-profit sectors. These include technical and operational positions in multinational corporations, leadership roles in public agencies, and founding an agritech company. He was most recently the deputy executive director at the Singapore Environment Council. The animal welfare group said Mr Leong brings with him a deep commitment to sustainability, the environment and animal welfare. In his new role, Mr Leong aims to strengthen the organisation's efforts to promote kindness towards animals and protect those most in need. 'The goal is to continually enhance our services, while also working towards a future where they are no longer needed,' he said. 'In an ideal world, all animals would be safe, cared for, and cherished, not just in the eyes of the law but in the hearts of people.' Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore Driverless bus in Sentosa gets green light to run without safety officer in first for S'pore Asia Malaysia's King appoints Wan Ahmad Farid as new Chief Justice World Trump diagnosed with vein condition causing leg swelling, White House says World US strikes destroyed only one of three Iranian nuclear sites, says new report Opinion Is your child getting drawn to drugs? Don't look away and don't give up Business 5 things to know about Kuok Hui Kwong, tycoon Robert Kuok's daughter and Shangri-La Asia head honcho Business Granddaughter of late Indonesian tycoon pays $25 million for Singapore bungalow Singapore Sex first, then you can sell my flat: Women property agents fend off indecent proposals and harassment SPCA chairperson Tang Wai Ying said: 'Walter's appointment comes at a critical time, as rising animal cruelty demands not just compassion but action. He brings heart, conviction and leadership to rally Singaporeans and strengthen our partnerships.' She also paid tribute to Ms Aarthi, saying: 'Her commitment has moved mountains. We – and the animals – are deeply grateful.' In response to media queries, SPCA said Ms Aarthi will 'continue to be involved with the organisation in some capacity'.
