New measures to improve housing affordability and accessibility in Singapore

singapore flats

Missed Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s first National Day Rally speech on new housing measures?

No worries for we’ve got you with this post.

Here are the highlights you need to know.

Good news for singles

With families in mind, singles will now have priority access to new homes.

Starting in mid-2025, singles looking to live near loved ones will receive priority when applying for Build-to-Order (BTO) flats.

This change was recently announced by PM Wong.

We all know that housing is one huge topic for many living in Singapore.

In his first National Day Rally speech, PM Wong reaffirmed the government’s commitment to affordable, accessible public housing.

Currently, only those 35 and above can purchase new two-room Flexi HDB units as singles.

Recognizing this limit, PM Wong asked how more could be done for singles.

The solution?

Grant them the same priority now given to married children who apply within 4 km of their parent’s home.

This means singles stand a better chance at balloting for a new build near family.

As PM Wong shared, many singles also wish to care for aging parents so this update ensures all children, whether married or not, can more easily live close by.

Lower-income couples received good news too

The Central Provident Fund (CPF) Housing Grant, assisting first-time buyers, will see its maximum amount increased.

This extra support helps more young Singaporeans purchase their first affordable home.

“This is my assurance to all young Singaporeans: Once you start work and wish to settle down, we will make sure that there is an HDB flat that is within your budget in every region,” PM Wong noted.

“We will always keep public housing in Singapore affordable for you.”

National Development Minister Desmond Lee will announce more details soon so stay tuned to the news.

Seniors, too, are not forgotten

Additional housing options have also been created for seniors.

For instance, the brand new Harmony Village @ Bukit Batok, ready to be moved in later this year, combines apartments and care services.

harmony-village-bukit-batok

Image Credits: Facebook/Desmond Lee

More such developments are planned to help the older generation age gracefully.

Recovering from the pandemic

In addition, PM Wong acknowledged past housing woes stemmed from COVID-19 disruptions.

But steady progress has been made on new construction and all delayed projects should be completed by early 2025.

This will satisfy pent-up demand while stabilizing prices.

Meanwhile, the special focus remains on keeping HDB flats attainable long-term.

Upcoming policy refinements aim to shorten waiting periods for BTOs and make prime locations feasible for all.

The government is working on its public housing mission and helping citizens realize their home dreams.

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Latest WFH internships posted from 12 to 15 August 2024

a person working on a laptop

Looking for WFH internships in the areas of social media, graphic design, and more?

Look no further for we’ve got opportunities for you in this post.

Have a look!

#1: Elevan August Media – Social Media Intern

elevanaugust.sg

Website: elevanaugust.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $700 – 900 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Pursuing a Diploma/ Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communications, Marketing, Business or a related field
  • Strong proficiency in English, with strong copy-vetting and writing skills
  • 6 months of relevant experience in digital & social media marketing
  • Knowledge of Facebook, Instagram, TikTok trends & platform
  • Knowledge of content creation
  • Knowledge of Canva is a plus
  • Can work both independently and in teams
  • Proactive, with a positive and can-do attitude
Key Responsibilities
  • Creates social media campaigns, including content & ideation, and implementation schedules
  • Film & edit short videos for Instagram Reels, Facebook videos and TikTok
  • Research on trends for our platforms
  • Copywriting, proofreading, and editing support for different digital platforms and audiences, understanding audience profiles, and platform requirements
  • Manage replies and handle engagement, follower growth, etc
  • Execute & schedule post image and video-based content across social media channels, depending on the requirements of each channel
  • Monitoring the results of content delivered on major social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram
  • Create thumbnails using Canva
  • Assist in any marketing ad-hoc tasks
How to apply?

View the job post here and submit your resume to [email protected]

#2: Vitamin M Pte. Ltd. – Graphic Layout / Illustrator Intern

vitaminm.sg

Website: vitaminm.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $300 – 500 (project /contract based)

Job Qualifications
  • Knowledge of Adobe software – Photoshop, Illustrator
  • Have attention to details
  • Able to understand Chinese (dealing with Chinese text and hanyu pinyin)
  • A good attitude is a must
Key Responsibilities
  • To do graphic layout, generate files ready for printing
  • To draw assets for children’s products (added advantage if you can, for future projects)
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Ying Sheng via this link. You may send any work sample to [email protected] directly. 

#3: Kūpaa – Social Media Intern

kupaa.co

Website: kupaa.co

Allowance / Remuneration: $600 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Currently enrolled in a local Polytechnic
  • A love and proficiency for storytelling, content creation, social media, photography/videography, graphic design and trends
  • An interest and passion for the brand and what kūpaa stands for
  • Experience with a camera and photo/video editing software is ideal
  • Ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines efficiently
Key Responsibilities
  • Master Content Creation: Capture and edit high-quality photos and videos for social media and website
  • Explore Trends: Research and create mood boards to generate new, fresh ideas ahead of trends and aligned with brand aesthetics
  • Create Impactful Content: Develop engaging content for Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, enhancing visual communication skills
  • Design Like a Pro: Design compelling, on-brand graphics
  • Engage with Community: Assist in managing and growing the online community
How to apply?

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

#4: Good Pharma Dermatology Pte Ltd – Finance & Admin Intern

suubalm.com

Website: suubalm.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,100 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Currently pursuing a degree or diploma in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Excel.
  • Good communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Key Responsibilities

Finance and General Administration:

  • Support finance team – Handle administrative matters related to the SG Corporate Debit Card, including data entry, reconciliation, and intercompany billing.
  • Manage and organize financial documents, ensuring they are filed correctly and are easily accessible.

Event Support:

  • Support sales & marketing team – Assist with the administrative tasks and tabulation of sales after events.
  • Help out as a cashier and provide administrative support during company events (e.g. LTAH)

Ad Hoc Tasks:

  • Support the finance and sales & marketing team with any additional tasks or projects as needed.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your updated CV to [email protected]

#5: CognaLearn Pte Ltd – Founder’s Financial Analyst Intern

cognalearn.com

Website: cognalearn.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Organization: Attention to detail across multiple items.
  • Efficiency: Process creation and improvement.
  • Versatility: Switch between different things and adapt to new things.
  • Results: Success and outcome orientation.
  • Communication. Effective written and oral communicator.
Key Responsibilities
  • Capital raising: Investor due diligence, meetings, and pitch decks
  • Investor relations: Monthly investor updates and metrics tracking
  • Financial modeling: Update financial models and metrics
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send a cover letter and a one-page CV with the subject “Founder’s Financial Analyst Intern – [your name]” to [email protected]

Editor’s note: These positions are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some 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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Reasons why you should upskill (not just for a pay increase)

SkillsFuture Festival

Thinking about upskilling for that pay bump?

While it’s obviously tempting, there’s so much more to gain than just a fatter paycheck so don’t put your focus entirely on just chasing the dollars and get disappointed when you don’t get them.

Here’s why you should upskill, not just for a pay increase.

Gain new skills to stay relevant in your field
  • Keeping up with industry trends

To remain competitive in your field, it’s wise to stay up-to-date with changes through continuous learning.

You don’t want to risk becoming obsolete as your skills and knowledge become outdated.

  • A necessity, not a choice

Upskilling and reskilling are no longer optional due to increasing employer demands.

Continuously learning helps you remain a valuable asset to your company; plus, you will likely gain a competitive edge over those who remain stagnant.

Increase your confidence & job satisfaction
  • Boost your self-assurance

As you expand your knowledge, you will naturally feel more self-assured in your role and that can translate to feeling more fulfilled overall.

  • Get energized by learning

There’s nothing quite like the rush of learning something new, doesn’t it?

  • Find greater job satisfaction

With continuous learning, that personal drive and ambition lead to a greater sense of job satisfaction as you feel proud of your accomplishments.

woman working on her laptop

Image Credits: unsplash.com

  • Stand out to employers

Employers love to see employees take initiative and a dedication to professional development, so by upskilling, you demonstrate your commitment to upgrading and that can give you a competitive edge for promotions/new roles down the line.

Open up NEW career opportunities and advancement
  • Discover fresh challenges

You may find yourself assigned exciting projects that allow you to apply your newly learned skills.

  • Position yourself for promotions

As you gain proficiencies that align with organizational goals, you increase your chances of being tapped for higher-level roles/leadership opportunities.

  • Expand your career horizons

Learning new skills can open doors to entirely different fields that pique your curiosity; perhaps you will discover an unexpected passion for certain areas that are normally “out of your job scope.”

Help colleagues in junior positions

Last but not least, as you expand your expertise, you may find yourself qualified to mentor those new/newer to the field.

Mentorship allows you to share your skills and experiences directly with junior colleagues, aiding in their career growth.

Not only does this benefit the individuals involved, but it also increases your “worth” in the office.

Boosting your skills makes you more well-rounded. It’s a smart investment in your long-term growth and future-proofing your career. Plus, what could be more rewarding than being a better version of yourself than yesterday?

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Latest WFH internships posted from 5 to 8 August 2024

working on laptop with sticky notes by the side

Before you go celebrate Singapore’s birthday and fully enjoy the long weekend, have a look at the latest WFH opportunities we have for you.

This week, we’ve got openings in administrative tasks, creative design & marketing, and more.

#1: Kleepers SG Pte Ltd – Admin Intern

kleepers.com

Website: kleepers.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $600 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Proficient in using social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram)
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively
  • Detail-oriented and proactive
  • Familiarity with WhatsApp and email communication
Key Responsibilities

Client Scheduling:

  • Plan and arrange schedules for residential clients, ensuring efficient and timely service delivery.

Social Media Management:

  • Post weekly messages, photos, and updates on Facebook and Instagram to engage the audience and keep them informed about services and promotions.

Client Follow-up:

  • Follow up with leads and clients via WhatsApp to provide information, address inquiries, and maintain positive customer relationships.

Cleaner Scheduling:

  • Allocate and plan schedules for cleaning staff, ensuring optimal coverage and efficient use of resources.

Vendor Collaboration:

  • Reach out to potential vendors via email to explore collaboration opportunities and build strong partnerships.
How to apply?

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

#2: AnneeMatthew – Creative Design / Marketing Intern

anneematthew.com

Website: anneematthew.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $400 – 450 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Ability to meet deadlines consistently.
  • Strong creativity and innovative thinking.
  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
  • Proactive and able to take initiative.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Fast learner.
  • Experience using Canva, Mailchimp, and Pinterest.
Key Responsibilities
  • Create engaging designs for advertisements and email campaigns.
  • Write compelling copy for various marketing materials.
  • Develop content for blogs and social media platforms.
  • Assist in the creation of marketing campaigns on Pinterest.
  • Collaborate with the marketing team to brainstorm and implement creative ideas.
  • Attend weekly meetings to discuss progress and new ideas.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply for this position by submitting your resume to [email protected]

#3: Upskills Singapore Pte Ltd – Business Development & Administrative Operations Intern

upskills.com

Website: upskills.com

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

Job Qualifications
  • Currently pursuing a Degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Familiarity with Jira or similar project management tools is a plus.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Business Development

Strategic Initiatives:

– Develop strategic initiatives to drive business development for Upskills Global.

– Identify and evaluate new business opportunities to expand the company’s global footprint.

Sales Strategy & Operations:

– Support the execution of sales strategies and manage related operational tasks.

– Assist in the preparation of sales presentations and proposals.

– Support the Sales team in lead generation and market research.

Admin & Operations

Inventory Management:

– Manage laptop warranty renewals and track inventory by using Jira.

– Ensure accurate record-keeping and regular updates of inventory status.

Global Operations Support:

– Provide support for administrative tasks across global entities.

– Coordinate with various departments to streamline administrative processes.

Operations Review:

– Analyze and optimize operational processes, particularly in entity, office operations, and payment processing.

– Recommend and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Administrative Support:

– Support various administrative functions for global operations.

– Assist in coordinating meetings, preparing documents, and handling other administrative tasks as needed.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the position to [email protected]

#4: Tenity Singapore – Venture Capital Scouting And Investment Intern

tenity.com

Website: tenity.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • [Critical] Near fluent communication (both written and verbal) capability in English
  • [Critical] Good communicator who can deliver their insights and opinions clearly in an organized manner
  • [Critical] High interest in the startup ecosystem, investments, financial services, and/or technology
  • [Critical] Self-starter who can work seamlessly in a team environment
  • [Plus Point] Pursuing degrees in business, finance, and/or technology
  • [Plus Point] Previous internship or professional experience in the financial services sector
Key Responsibilities
  • Support Investment Lead in deal sourcing, screening, and evaluation for early-stage fintech and insurtech investment opportunities
  • Perform market research to identify and document key technology and industry trends across the Asia Pacific region
  • Perform competitive industry analysis on key assets and investment opportunities
  • Assist in the preparation of investment execution documentation.
  • Initiate conversations with prospective startups and ecosystem partners to actively take part in the regional ecosystem
  • Support the greater team in organizing and managing various events hosted by the team
How to apply?

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

#5: Homeez Pte Ltd – Digital Marketing Intern

ezid.sg

Website: ezid.sg

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

Job Qualifications
  • Proven digital marketing internship experience undergoing a degree in business, Marcom, majoring in Marketing or any other relevant discipline. 
  • Experience in B2B or B2C marketing, planning, and customer engagement is preferred. 
  • Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. 
  • Strong research, analytical, and quantitative abilities with excellent written and verbal communication skills, preferably the ability to develop and deliver consulting presentations. Fluency in English and Chinese is mandatory. 
  • Digital marketing experience across LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Google, and China advertising platforms is preferred. 
  • Comfortable working with a wide spectrum of analytical tools e.g. Google Analytics, Adwords, Facebook, Google Optimizer, etc. with the ability to analyze digital data and draw actionable insights.
  • Strong passion for working in a startup business environment
  • Strong team player, open-minded, enthusiastic, and eager to learn
Key Responsibilities
  • Work closely with the team to develop digital marketing strategies and plans for the firm and projects. This includes digital, social, content management, and online lead generation strategies.
  • Assist with conducting market research and benchmarks to provide insights into the market conditions, consumer behavior, customer insights, customer segmentation, pricing, and competition landscape for target markets for a variety of clients across multiple industries to uncover new opportunities.
  • Assist with designing social media strategy and content. 
  • Learn and assist with brand awareness campaigns or promotion campaigns for the company.
  • Assist with executing digital marketing campaigns across relevant platforms.
How to apply?

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

Editor’s note: These positions are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some 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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Are you spending too much on traveling?

sunset view from a plane

Got the wanderlust bug, but your wallet’s feeling the sting?

Overspending can quickly turn your love for vacations into stress.

So here’s THE post to help you find a balance between flying and maintaining financial stability.

Monitor your travel expenses
  • Compare and analyze

Gather your expense data and compare it against your predetermined budget; this will reveal any overspending patterns or areas where you can cut back.

Identify red flags in your spending

One major red flag is frequent credit card debt related to trips.

If you’re struggling to pay off your balance each month, you might be overspending.

Another warning sign is dipping into your savings to fund your wanderlust.

Pay attention to your post-trip finances too.

If you’re feeling stressed about money or cutting back on essentials after returning home, it’s a sign…

Evaluate your travel priorities
  • Distinguish needs from wants

Is that 5-star hotel necessary, or would a good-rating Airbnb suffice?

  • Experiences over things

Instead of splurging on expensive souvenirs, invest in local cooking classes or free guided hikes. These immersive activities often cost less.

  • Smart choices, big savings

Consider traveling during shoulder/off-peak seasons or to less touristy locations.

Use comparison sites to find the best deals on flights and accommodations before you book.

One site that I’ve been using for years is Skyscanner.

At a glance, you will be able to find all the flights available and the latest promotions individual airlines are having.

SG to Seoul

Image Credits: skyscanner.com.sg

Play around with the features and you will find that it works wonders.

But one good point to note is this:

Once you click through to a third-party site to “check out” your tickets, check the price again to make sure it’s the promo price you want to pay for.

Sometimes, the price gets updated in real-time or seats get sold out quickly so the stated promo price may not be available anymore.

Strategies to cut down travel costs
  • Hunt for deals

Sign up for airline newsletters and follow Facebook pages to catch flash/promo sales.

Also, check for package deals that bundle flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings (I’m not a fan, but it does work sometimes).

  • Opt for budget-friendly destinations

It doesn’t always have to be an expensive hotspot, right?

Explore lesser-known destinations where your dollar can stretch further.

Plus, you will likely encounter fewer crowds and more authentic local interactions.

By being mindful of your budget, prioritizing experiences over luxury, and seeking ways to save, you can continue satisfying your wanderlust. The best take-homes are the memories you make, not the debt that stresses you. As you pack your bags, pack your financial savvy too 😉

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