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Revamping 29,000 HDB Flats with $407M Upgrade

MAJOR UPGRADE FOR AGING HDB FLATS

More than 29,000 Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats will soon receive enhancements under the latest round of the Home Improvement Programme (HIP). With over S$407 million allocated for upgrading works, this initiative aims to modernize aging flats and enhance residents’ quality of life.

Announcing the expansion on Feb 16, Minister for National Development Desmond Lee shared that an additional 371 blocks will be included in the programme. Since its launch in 2007, 494,000 flats have benefited from the scheme.

Where Are the Upgrades Happening?

According to HDB, the selected flats are located in:

Bedok
Bukit Batok
Bukit Merah
Bukit Panjang
Chua Chu Kang
Hougang
Jurong West
Pasir Ris
Queenstown
Sengkang
Tampines
Toa Payoh
Woodlands

SENIOR-FRIENDLY FEATURES

Residents will have the option to install senior-friendly fittings under the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme, which was expanded last year. These fittings include:

A. Foldable shower seats
B. Handrails at flat entrances with steps
C. Grab bars
D. Slip-resistant bathroom floor treatment

So far, 29,000 households have applied for these improvements, with Minister Lee describing the take-up rate as “very encouraging.”

COMMITMENT TO UPGRADING HOMES

The HIP primarily addresses wear and tear in older flats, ensuring they remain safe and comfortable for residents. Upgrades include:

A. Toilet and bathroom improvements
B. New entrance doors and gates
C. Replacement of refuse chute hoppers

To date, the government has invested approximately S$4 billion in the HIP as of March 31, 2024. Of the 494,000 flats selected for upgrading, nearly 381,000 have already undergone improvements.

“As our homes and estates age over time, they naturally encounter higher wear and tear,” said Minister Lee. “The government remains committed to refreshing, rejuvenating, and improving older estates and homes so that Singaporeans can continue to enjoy a high-quality living environment.”

With these continued efforts, the government reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that Singaporeans, young and old, can live in safe and well-maintained homes for generations to come.

Sources: 1 & 2

How to Choose the Right Internship in Singapore

Choosing the right internship is a crucial step in shaping your career. When I was searching for mine, I interned for my professor, a well-known sports psychologist, because I wanted to see how seminars and workshops were conducted. That experience showed me the importance of picking an internship that aligns with what you truly want to learn.

#1: ALIGN YOUR CAREER GOALS
Your internship should match your field of study and career aspirations. If you are into marketing, choose companies with strong digital strategies. If finance excites you, look at banks or fintech firms. Prioritize roles that offer real industry experience.

#2: RESEARCH COMPANY’S REPUTATION
An internship is not just about what you do but also where you do it. Look into the company’s reputation, values, and work culture. Does the company invest in interns by offering mentorship? Do they have a collaborative and inclusive environment? Check employee reviews, visit the company’s website, and even reach out to former interns for insights.

#3: EVALUATE THE JOB SCOPE
A meaningful internship should give you hands-on experience, not just administrative tasks. Review the job description to understand what kind of projects you will be involved in. Will you be handling real-world tasks? Will you have a chance to contribute ideas? The more responsibility you have, the better the learning experience.

#4: SEEK OUT MENTORSHIP
A strong mentor can make a world of difference. Some companies pair interns with dedicated mentors who provide guidance, feedback, and career advice. If possible, connect with seniors in your university or past interns to get their insights. They can share which companies offer valuable learning experiences and which ones to avoid.

#5: CONSIDER STIPEND AND BENEFITS
While many internships in Singapore offer valuable experience, some also provide stipends, transportation allowances, or meal vouchers. While money should not be the sole deciding factor, it is practical to consider if the internship will cover your basic expenses.

#6: CHECK WORKING HOURS
Balancing an internship with academics can be challenging. Some companies offer part-time roles or flexible hours to accommodate your schedule. Make sure to choose an internship that does not overwhelm your academic workload.

#7: UNDERSTAND VISA REQUIREMENTS (FOREIGNERS)
If you are an international student, securing the right visa is crucial. Internships over 60 days require either a Training Employment Pass (TEP) or a Work Holiday Pass (WHP), depending on your eligibility. Some internship placement programs assist with the paperwork, so check if your employer provides support.

IN A NUTSHELL

Image Credits: unsplash.com

An internship in Singapore can be a game-changer, offering valuable experience and networking opportunities. Do your research, seek guidance, and choose a role that truly benefits your career growth.

Sources: 1 & 2

Latest WFH internships posted from 10 to 13 February 2025

Happy Valentine’s Day! 💌

Before you go and enjoy your date(s) today and for the weekend, why not set your “priorities” right and land yourself an internship first? 😂

This week we’ve got opportunities in content marketing, sales coordinating, and more so have a look and apply accordingly.

#1: The Swim Starter – Content Marketing

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A post shared by The Swim Starter 🇸🇬 (@theswimstarter)

Website: theswimstarter.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $600 – 800 monthly

Job Qualifications

Proven experience in content creation or digital marketing.
Strong writing, editing, and communication skills.
Experience with social media and analytics tools.
Knowledge of photo and video editing software.
Organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks.

Key Responsibilities

Capture high-quality photos and videos during swim classes and events.
Develop and manage digital content across all platforms, including social media.
Collaborate with marketing to maintain a consistent content schedule.
Analyze engagement and adjust strategies as necessary.
Interact with the community online, fostering strong connections and feedback.
Innovate with new content ideas to enhance brand awareness and reach.

How to apply?

View the job post here and write to Denver via this link.

#2: Homeez Pte. Ltd. – Marketing Intern

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A post shared by Homeez – Renovation Platform (@homeez.sg)

Website: homeez.com

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 eg. 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 competitive landscape for target markets for various 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.
⁠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.

How to apply?

View the job post here and write to Jon via this link.

#3: Boxgreen Pte Ltd – Sales Coordinator

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A post shared by boxgreen (@boxgreenco)

Website: boxgreen.co

Allowance / Remuneration: $2,000 – 2,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Minimum of a Diploma or Nitec in Business, Marketing, or related fields.
No prior experience is required; on-the-job training will be provided.
Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within teams.
Singaporean only

Key Responsibilities

Assist in managing and tracking corporate orders, ensuring timely delivery and customer satisfaction.
Ensure that orders are processed efficiently and follow up proactively to prevent delays or overdue orders.
Coordinate with cross-functional teams to optimize inventory and order fulfillment processes.
Collaborate with internal teams and third-party logistics to ensure seamless order processing and shipping.
Support client communications, including proposals, order updates, and follow-up presentations.
Track sales performance, monitor lead status, and help ensure targets are met.
Handle administrative tasks, including maintaining accurate sales reports, contract drafting, invoicing, and purchase orders.
Coordinate with finance for billing, AR collections, and issuing payment reminders.
Provide after-sales support to maintain positive client relationships and ensure a seamless experience.
Assist with ad-hoc tasks as needed, supporting the sales team to meet business objectives.

How to apply?

View the job post here and write to Esther via this link.

#4: Sqkii Pte. Ltd. – Digital Design Intern

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A post shared by Sqkii (@sqkiimouse)

Website: sqkii.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

An excellent eye for visuals and details.
A creative, positive, and flexible attitude.
Strong communication skills.
Advanced proficiency in visual design software, such as Figma, Photoshop, After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Illustrator.
Knowledge of simple video editing is a plus.
Commitment for at least three months, though the internship period is flexible.

Key Responsibilities

Working with the Digital Designer in bringing marketing campaigns to life across all of Sqkii’s channels, including brainstorming, conceptualizing, sketching, and executing creative assets while ensuring quality and consistency with the brand and project mood boards
Developing effective visuals to attract a hyper-casual audience, by applying consumer psychology and using design principles and visual trends
Assisting the UI team in building visually appealing user interfaces for games and websites
Assisting the operations team with other ad-hoc duties as necessary

How to apply?

View the job post here and apply by sending over your resume and portfolio to [email protected].

#5: Creative For More – Graphic Design Intern

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A post shared by CREATIVE FOR MORE (@creativeformore)

Website: creativeformore.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Someone active on social media
Experienced using tools like Adobe Suite and Canva
Enthusiastic, proactive self-starter, and a strong team player
Proficient with the use of a variety of digital and content marketing tools
Someone with a good command of English
Experience in Adobe Creative Suite: Illustrator, Photoshop, Indesign.
Having your DSLR is also a bonus for the photoshoots
Team player and a fast and adept learner

Key Responsibilities

Think creatively and develop new design concepts, graphics, and layouts
Work collaboratively and communicate with the project manager to help manage clients’ expectations of deliverables
Produce high-quality designs, artworks, and layouts for a variety of digital and print assets.
Amend final designs to client’s comments and gain full approval
Assist team with photoshoots and client meetings

How to apply?

View the job post here and write to Geraldine 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 details, contact the employer directly.

How to Save Money for Your Valentine’s Date

This Valentine’s Day marks my third one with my husband as a married couple. We’ve never been the type to splurge on overpriced flowers or chocolates as the price tags are just too outrageous! But just because February 14th can be expensive doesn’t mean you have to splurge to make it special.

If you’re looking to celebrate on a budget, consider swapping extravagant gifts for thoughtful, homemade surprises. A cozy date night at home can be just as romantic as a fancy dinner out. That said, if there’s a restaurant you’ve been dying to try, Valentine’s Day could be the perfect excuse to finally check it off your list.

#1: THINK ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIP STAGE

Before planning your celebration, think about where you and your partner stand in your relationship. If this is your first Valentine’s Day together, a conservative budget like $50 or less might be a good starting point.

While spending more doesn’t necessarily equate to deeper feelings, starting with a smaller gesture can help set realistic expectations and avoid going overboard too soon.

#2: DISCUSS YOUR BUDGET

No one wants an awkward moment when exchanging gifts and realizing one of you went all out while the other kept it simple. To avoid mismatched expectations, have an open conversation about spending limits beforehand.

Being upfront about what you can afford is key for Valentine’s Day and for future milestones like birthdays, holidays, and weddings (if things go the distance).

#3: CELEBRATE AT HOME

A home-cooked meal can be just as romantic than dining at a fancy restaurant. Whether you cook together or surprise your partner with a special dish, staying in allows you to enjoy an intimate evening without the hefty price tag.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

And don’t feel pressured to whip up an extravagant feast. Even a simple charcuterie board, complete with cheese, cured meats, and fruit, can feel elegant when paired with candlelight, rose petals, and a glass of bubbly.

#4: GIVE SOMETHING MEANINGFUL

A meaningful gift doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Instead of pricey jewelry or gourmet chocolates, consider an experience you can enjoy together like visiting a museum, creating perfume, or attending a local theater production.

Or, go the DIY route. A handwritten love letter, homemade cookies, or a framed poem can feel far more special than anything store-bought.

#5: USE YOUR CREDIT CARD POINTS

If you’ve been racking up credit card points, now might be the time to put them to use! Many people let rewards go unused, but redeeming them for a discounted dinner, a fun activity, or even a future getaway can be a smart way to celebrate without dipping into your budget.

IN A NUTSHELL

Valentine’s Day isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about showing your love and appreciation in a meaningful way. With a little creativity and planning, you can create a memorable celebration without the expensive price tag.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Sources: 1,2, & 3

5 best-rated luxury hotels in Sukhumvit, Bangkok, Thailand to book a grand stay in 2025

We can never get enough of Bangkok, right?

And that’s why we’re sure you will find this list of best-rated luxury hotels in Sukhumvit, Bangkok, Thailand handy at some point in time as you plan a trip this year.

Thank us later! 😜

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (6.5K+ reviews)

The Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit is a true standout, just mere minutes from both major airports, keeping you in the heart of the action with shopping at Siam Paragon and MBK Center (within 3.5 km).

With suites, luxury rooms, and more, you will experience the epitome of hospitality with the Sheraton.

Families will appreciate the little ones up to 2 years old staying FREE, while couples and solo adventurers can bask in the amenities and 5-star service.

An exceptional 9.3 guest rating speaks volumes so it’s the first on our list.

Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit

Agoda Rating: 9.2 (16K+ reviews)

Or consider this hotel that sits just steps from Bangkok’s major subway and skytrain stations (500 m from Sukhumvit MRT Station and Asok BTS Station), making exploring Bangkok a breeze.

Chatuchak Weekend Market is about 7.4 km away.

It features a range of rooms and suites—from nests for couples to spacious family-friendly digs complete with a kids’ club and kids’ pool.

After a long day spent sightseeing or hitting the shops, adults can unwind at the poolside bar.

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok

Agoda Rating: 9.2 (11.7K+ reviews)

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Bangkok is a traveler’s dream come true located right next to Asok BTS station.

Inside, you will find accommodations such as standard twin rooms, deluxe triples for families, or corner doubles for couples.

Speaking of families, kids under 6 stay FREE when using existing bedding.

After a day exploring Bangkok, unwind at the semi-indoor pool offering views of the city skyline, or get your heart rate up at the fitness center with floor-to-ceiling windows.

SILQ Hotel and Residence

Agoda Rating: 9.2 (3.2K+ reviews)

SILQ Hotel and Residence serves up a city stay with a location to match.

Less than a 10-minute stroll lands you at Phrom Phong BTS station, zipping you to top attractions in a flash.

Asiatique The Riverfront is just 7.4km away.

Once “home”, why not sweat it out in the sauna or hot tub before retreating to your room to rest?

Go for a premier, or opt for studios or one/two-bedroom suites—great for families, as kids 11 and under stay FREE using existing bedding.

The Okura Prestige Bangkok

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (9.2K+ reviews)

Last but not least, whether you’re exploring the street food stalls or bargain-hunting at MBK Center just 2 km away, this 5-star accommodation is one to consider.

The real pampering begins on the hotel grounds, where an infinity pool with skyline vistas and a spa melt away any built-up tension.

Rooms range from deluxe rooms to suites and club kings.

Best of all, young adventurers under 12 stay for FREE—and the first kid’s breakfast (under 12) is on the house.

With a central location minutes from Chit Lom BTS Station and a quick 35-minute drive to Bangkok’s airports, there’s no reason to hesitate.