Johor chief minister Hasni Mohammad has noted on 31 May that Singapore and Malaysia have put talks to reopen cross-border travel on hold. This is due to the pandemic situation in Malaysia.
“This decision was made after taking into account the current situation of COVID-19 transmission in Malaysia with daily case numbers exceeding 8,000 and active cases exceeding 70,000,” read a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
“More effort” needed to reduce Johor’s COVID-19 cases
Mr Hasni remarked that Johor has always been a city contributing to Malaysia economy. Thus, activity in the capital of the Malaysian state of Johor must resume as soon as possible.
“We just have to make sure that more effort is being put towards reducing the number of cases in Johor. And I believe once the number is reduced to an acceptable level, Singapore will consider our request to reopen the borders again,” adding that the ball is in their court now.
Vaccination priority: Malaysian “economic frontliners” in Singapore
The Johor state government is planning to tackle the COVID-19 numbers by accelerating the vaccination of its residents.
According to the ImmuPlan Johor initiative, 100,000 residents will be on the priority list for vaccination. These chosen ones would be “economic frontliners” working in Singapore and individuals intending to resume cross-border work commuting.
It seems like Johor is on track in their initiative, with around 70,000 people qualifying. This group of people will likely receive their Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 jabs next month onwards.
Johor eager to acquire vaccines from our tiny red dot
Image Credits: health.harvard.edu
The chief minister also said that Johor is in talks to secure their vaccines through various channels, including Singapore.
“I was made to understand, from some vaccine suppliers… about their willingness to supply (to us). But they are tied to the understanding they will have to give priority to the country’s requirement first,” commented Mr Hasni.
He has also expressed keenness in working with Temasek Foundation again to up the supply of vaccines in Johor. As most of us already know, Temasek Foundation is a Singapore-based non-profit organisation.
“So, maybe from the foundation’s perspective, it is more of charitable work. But I suppose if it is on an understanding that can be developed to manage, control or reduce the number of positive COVID-19 patients, then why not?” Mr Hasni asserted.
About 13 years have passed since Singapore first hosted the Formula One (F1) Grand Prix in 2008.
Do you know that it took about S$150 million for Singapore to host the first night race? The government paid about 60% of the total amount in hopes that the three-day event would bring in S$100 million in tourism receipts.
Though the inaugural race has welcomed high-profile attendees like the former heads of Sony, Lenovo, and Royal Bank of Scotland, the question remains – should Singapore stop hosting the F1 Grand Prix amid COVID-19?
Not as financially glamorous
According to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), the race attracted 450,000 international visitors and was potentially exposed to 780 million worldwide by 2017.
However, the overall financial figures aren’t that promising. Averaging out the S$1.4 billion in incremental tourism receipts over the past 11 races, Singapore has only managed to secure S$130 million a year. In other words, the spending outweighs the “income”.
Furthermore, interest in the sport has also seen a downward trend. To give you an idea, it had dropped from 600 million global viewers in 2008 to 350 million in 2017. The latest numbers stood at 433 million in 2020.
Our sunny island’s not alone
Image Credits: heraldsun.com.au
Other than Singapore, other host cities aren’t benefiting financially, too, from the F1 Grand Prix. India and South Korea opted out after hosting for three and four years respectively in the 2010s. Our neighbour, Malaysia, the second Asian nation to host the race in 1999, stopped in 2017.
Honestly, who wouldn’t, considering the high costs to organise the event but declining attendees?
Even Melbourne, which has hosted the race for 14 years, faced a loss of A$41.3 million (S$42.46 million) in 2007. But still, the visibility and tourist arrivals have kept the coastal capital going for over a decade.
Hosting amid COVID-19
Bringing our focus back to Singapore, what are your thoughts on Singapore hosting the F1 Grand Prix amid the pandemic? Based on the circuit schedule, the next race in Singapore will be on 3 October this year.
If you’ve been following the news, you would have known that significant events have been cancelled recently. This includes the Singapore open badminton tournament, the annual Shangri-la Dialogue, and the World Economic Forum. Would the F1 Grand Prix follow suit?
Maybe it’s a good time for the authorities to weigh the benefits of any tourism receipts compared to the potential risk of another wave of COVID-19 infections if more visitors are allowed into our tiny red dot because of the night race.
A luxury sports entertainment event during uncertain times? Is it really a good idea?
We’ve heard from a certified counsellor that while online profiling test options are plenty, they may not necessarily be 100% accurate. However, it does shed some light on one’s personality.
More often than not, it’s easy to “judge” a person as there are several apparent traits an introvert or extrovert might display. In fact, it’s also common to be an ambivert too. According to Healthline, ambiversion refers to a combined personality style of introversion and extroversion. This means you’re somewhere in between if you identify as one.
Canada has a global reputation as one of the safest nations with both kind and polite people.
It was also rated as the best nation for introverts to live in 2021. With a very low overall population density of four people per square kilometre, even the most private person will have plenty of space to work with and enjoy some precious solitude.
If you enjoy skiing and snowboarding, the slopes at Whistler will offer you an experience like no other. Hikers may wish to consider a visit to Banff, one of Canada’s gems. Whatever you decide to do here, Canada’s beautiful national parks and accessible outdoor spaces make this North American nation a top spot to visit for introverts.
#2: Australia
Canada may be too long of a flight for some. How about Australia then? It’s much closer and an excellent choice for the introverted traveller.
Largely unpopulated, the Nordic island nation is a wonderful destination for introverted travellers. News also has it that Iceland is slowly opening up to vaccinated visitors, so that’s something to look forward to.
Based on a past report, Iceland took the top spot as the friendliest country for tourists. For introverts, this is excellent news, indeed! Take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life and soak in a hot spring or camp under the breathtaking Northern Lights.
#4: Russia
Russia is an enormous nation spanning 11 time zones.
While cities such as Moscow are densely populated, Russian social norms make this an easy place to visit for the more restrained among us. Many Russians love a good chess game, and if you happen to like it too, you may be keen to visit the Chess Museum in Moscow.
Introverts with a decent budget and who want to connect with their adventurous side can take a private helicopter tour of Kamchatka’s volcanoes. If not, one can always enjoy a stroll through Peterhof Palace, view the spectacular Cape Tobizina, or explore Lake Baikal.
#5: Finland
Image Credits: gofinland.org
It may sound awkward for some who do not know Finnish culture well. But Finns value their personal space so much that “social distancing” has long been a thing way before the pandemic started.
That’s why it’s safe to say that they may make perfect friends for peeps who desire enough time and space to recharge social batteries. In fact, Finns even have a series of running jokes about “Finnish Nightmares” that many introverts will find relatable.
Just take a look at this:
#6: New Zealand
Singapore and New Zealand may be working together to recognise the digital health and COVID-19 vaccination certificates, as shared by Singapore Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan last month.
Filled with gorgeous vistas, rolling hills, and a plethora of cultural landmarks, maybe it’s time for a trip to New Zealand? Let’s not forget that the island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean is another exceptional place for the introverted tourist to journey to.
New Zealanders pride themselves as friendly but reserved. It also has a relatively low population density of only 19 people per square kilometre, meaning there is plenty of space for you to work around.
Sparsely populated, Norway offers plenty of opportunities to escape from the world, relax in peace, and avoid the draining experience of being constantly surrounded by fast-paced life.
Try a trip to Borøy Island if you’re searching for a tranquil oasis in local villages. For those who enjoy reading, the small town of Tvedestrand by the waters can allow you the freedom to roam its cobbled streets and enter bookshops as you please.
#8: Belize
We have Belize, a country in Central America with Caribbean Sea shorelines, to end us off our list.
Ambiverts who sometimes want to steer away from crowded beaches, night clubs, packed bars, and streets full of tourists will find Belize an ideal destination. The nation on the eastern coast of Central America offers the tropically inclined introvert a refuge to enjoy Singapore-like weather and blue seas.
Looking for a recreational space where you can spend a day of endless fun? Search no further than the newest addition at East Coast Park! National Parks Board recently opened the family friendly Coastal PlayGrove. It is located at the Area B of the East Coast Park.
This recreational space may induce nostalgic memories as it was the former Big Splash site. The iconic Big Splash was redeveloped into the Coastal PlayGrove after it ceased its operations in 2016. Nowadays, we will be able to enjoy a 4.5-hectare recreation space with a Play Tower, a water play area, an outdoor classroom, as well as retail and dining offerings.
Let us breakdown Coastal PlayGrove’s interesting features. One of its main attractions is the 16m-high Play Tower. This impressive structure is hard to miss due to its massive size and its vibrant design. At its center is the Vertical Challenge. The Vertical Challenge is made up of climbing nets, which ascend from the base to the top of the building. Its dynamic design is a tribute to the coastal heritage of East Coast Park. Moreover, its vibrant colors are the same as the previous water slides. The Vertical Challenge is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 8am to 8pm. The slides are open daily, from 8am to 12pm and 4pm to 8pm.
Image Credits: facebook.com/nparksbuzz
Next to the tower is a water play area. If your kids are looking for ways to cool down on a hot day, try playing at the water play area. This area consists of wading pools, which are connected by a stream with numerous water jets. What is more? These water jets vividly light up at night!
Here are some friendly reminders when playing in this area. It is suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years old. A toilet is located nearby to allow visitors to dry up and change out. Lastly, it follows the same schedule as the Vertical Challenge.
As you stroll further in the Coastal PlayGrove, you will be delighted with the Nature Playgarden. This playgarden allows guests to be immersed with the beauty of nature. It is divided into several themed sections to introduce kids to the different habitats. In all these sections, natural materials such as wood and sand were used. For instance, the first section lets the children explore the bamboo tunnel trail. The last section consists of a trail leading to a sand pit with planted native shrubs. You will be able to spot various fruits and flowers as well as animals such as butterflies and birds. Its biodiversity aims to ignite the curiosity of its guests.
Image Credits: facebook.com/nparksbuzz
Next to the Nature Playgarden is an Outdoor Classroom made for the preschoolers. It is equipped with chalkboard and log stools. Indulge in the coastal views as you learn with your child.
Aside from these interactive features, the Coastal PlayGrove has its own Event Lawn. Large events may not be permitted now, but this spacious Event Lawn can accommodate a whopping 5,000 people once the pandemic is over. Nonetheless, you can use this space by having a seaside picnic, a relaxing kite-flying session, or an exhilarating round of frisbee with your loved ones.
When visiting the Coastal PlayGrove, it is important to follow the COVID-19 guidelines and other safety protocols. With this newest addition to the East Coast Park, guests will be able to bask in the sun, immerse in nature’s beauty, and have a quality time with the whole family.
Address: East Coast Park, 902 E Coast Park Service Rd, Area B, Singapore 449874 Contact:www.nparks.gov.sg Arrive by riding the bus (31, 36, 43, 47, 48, 134, 135, 196, 197, 401, 853M) or by driving your vehicle. There is a spacious car park with current charges of $0.60 per half hour. Bicycle bays are also available.
Nestled in the string of islands on the Southern coast of Singapore is St. John’s Island. What was once a quarantine facility in the late 1800s has since become a destination for locals who want a quick getaway from the cityscape.
St. John’s Island is bigger than its neighbors namely, Sisters’ Islands and Kusu Island. Despite its size, less than half of the island is accessible by the public. Huge portions of the land are dedicated to research and to lodging. Nonetheless, there is plenty of activities to explore within the island.
If you are all set, start by riding a ferry to get to the island. There are two ferry companies that travel between the Southern Islands. You can either go with the Marina South Ferry or Singapore Island Cruise. Prices start from S$15 (adult tickets).
Sit back and relax as the short ride will last for 30 minutes. You can even choose to sit on the top deck, if it is available. Upon arriving in the island, here are some of the activities that you may explore.
1. GO ON A WALK TRAIL
Refresh your mind by being one with nature as you walk through St. John’s Island. The first curated trail on this island was developed to encourage appreciation for its rich biodiversity and history. In fact, you can spot eleven Heritage Trees within the island. Only a selected number of trees have earned the title of Heritage Trees. These trees are handpicked for their exceptional size and their outstanding botanical and cultural value.
The St. John’s Island Trail includes fifteen stations marked with signboards that serve as educational resources and station markers. Thus, it will let you see the beauty of its fauna and flora as well as its vibrant history.
2. JOIN THE GUIDED TOUR
Free guided tours are held on the first Sunday of every month. Join the National Park volunteers as they highlight the key features of the St. John’s Island Trail. The land-based trail covers 1.6 kilometers and would span for about 90 minutes. What’s more? It is free! Do note that registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you opt to travel the island through wheels, you may rent bicycles or two-wheel step pedals. Enjoy the cool breeze as you pedal along the island and feast your eyes with its biodiversity.
A pop-up bicycle rental store called Gogreen Bicycle Rental offers access to bicycles, two-wheel step pedals, and tents. Convenience comes with a price as renting a bicycle or a two-wheel step pedal starts with S$30.
4. GO FISHING
Upon exiting the ferry, you will notice how clear the waters are. Try looking down and observing the schools of fish. If you are lucky enough, you will catch a huge range of fish from snappers to groupers.
5. EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE ON MARINE LIFE
As you take a dip on the calm waters of the island’s Swimming Lagoon, you will be able to see different sea creatures such as sea sponges and seagrasses. Many of these can be encountered at low tide on an intertidal walk around the island’s coasts.
6. INDULGE IN BIRD WATCHING
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings during your visit to the St. John’s Island. Add an element of fun to your sightings by writing down the birds and the animals that you spotted. Take pictures and add that to your “nature journal”, which you can make with your child.
What are you waiting for?
Explore the St. John’s Island with your loved ones by checking out the ferry schedules and its COVID-19 safety measures. Make sure to pack water, sunblock, insect repellant, and snacks.
There are no stores within the island. It is best to come prepared! You can either pack your essentials or grab snacks like bread at the Marina South Pier’s convenience stores. Moreover, please help conserve the beauty of the island by throwing your trash properly.
