Destinations, Travel tips, Festivals and Public Holidays
Working in Singapore
Flashback : Singapore Public Holiday for Year 2008 Calendar
Jun 11th
With Year 2010 Public Holiday Calendar is out, it is interesting to look back to year 2008
This is the MoM (Ministry of Manpower) Calendar of 2008 Singapore Public Holiday.
The dates for the eleven specified public holidays for 2008 are as follows:
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New Year’s Day |
Tuesday |
1 January 2008 |
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Chinese New Year |
Thursday Friday |
7 February 2008 8 February 2008 |
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Good Friday |
Friday |
21 March 2008 |
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Labour Day |
Thursday |
1 May 2008 |
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Vesak Day |
Monday |
19 May 2008 |
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National Day |
Saturday |
9 August 2008 |
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Hari Raya Puasa |
Wednesday |
1 October 2008 |
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Deepavali |
Tuesday |
28 October 2008 |
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Hari Raya Haji |
Monday |
8 December 2008 |
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Christmas Day |
Thursday |
25 December 2008 |
2. The date, 28th October 2008, for Deepavali needs to be checked against the Indian Almanacs when they become available towards the end of 2007. Should there be a change in date, the Ministry of Manpower will announce it towards the end of 2007.
3. The list of public holidays for 2008 is available through the following channels:
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The Ministry of Manpower’s website; and
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The Ministry of Manpower’s Interactive Voice Response System at telephone number (65) 6438 5122 to request a faxed copy of the list of public holidays.
Plan your holiday for 2010
Jun 9th
Ministry of Manpower (MoM) has released the Singapore Public Holidays 2010 Calendar . From 11 days of public holiday, eight falls on Friday, Sunday, or Monday, which will give Singaporeans many long-weekend breaks. Another two public holidays Labour Day 1 May 2010 and Christmas Day 25 December 2010 falls on Saturday, which some companies compensate by adding to annual leave break, while some companies choose to make the following Monday as non-working days.
Only Hari Raya Haji (17 November 2010) falls on Wednesday.
MOM Singapore Public Holidays for The Year 2010
Jun 9th
Ministry of Manpower has confirmed the Singapore Public Holidays for 2010. Please note that based on this new calendar, the previous calendar we released was not accurate.
SINGAPORE PUBLIC HOLIDAYS FOR THE YEAR 2010
The dates for the 11 specified public holidays for 2010 are as follows:
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New Year’s Day |
Friday |
1 January 2010 |
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Sunday* Monday |
14 February 2010 15 February 2010 |
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Good Friday |
Friday |
2 April 2010 |
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Labour Day |
Saturday |
1 May 2010 |
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Friday |
28 May 2010 |
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National Day |
Monday |
9 August 2010 |
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Friday |
10 September 2010 |
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Friday |
5 November 2010 |
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Wednesday |
17 November 2010 |
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Saturday |
25 December 2010 |
* As Chinese New Year falls on Sunday 14 February 2010 and Monday 15 February 2010, the next day, Tuesday 16 February 2010, will be a public holiday.
2. The date, 5 November 2010, for Deepavali needs to be checked against the Indian Almanac when it is available. Should there be a change in date, the Ministry of Manpower will issue a press release to announce the change.
3. The list of public holidays for 2010 is available on the Ministry of Manpower’s website at http://www.mom.gov.sg
Update: Singapore 2011 Public Holidays is out. Check it out !
Singapore School Holiday 2010 Calendar
Jun 6th
Scheduled Singapore School Holidays for 2010
Here is list of scheduled Singapore school holidays for 2010. Please note: this holidays calendar is not approved by Ministry of Education (MoE) yet.
UPDATE : As we already know the public holiday calendar we based on previously was incorrect. Please use the updated MoM Singapore Public Holidays 2010 Calendar.
Semester I After Term I
Saturday, 13 March 2010 – Sunday, 21 March 2010
Semester I After Term II
Saturday, 29 May 2010 – Sunday, 27 June 2010
Semester II After Term III
Saturday 4, September 2010 – Sunday, 12 September 2010
Semester II After Term IV
Saturday, 20 November 2010 – Friday, 31 December 2010
Youth Day
Sunday, 4 July 2010*
Monday, 5 July 2010
Day after National Day
Tuesday, 10 August 2010
Teachers´ Day
Wednesday, 1 September 2010
Children´s Day (For primary schools only.)
Friday, 1 October 2010
Singapore Public Holidays
New Year’s Day
1 January 2010
Chinese New Year
14-16 February 2010
Good Friday
2 April 2010
Labour Day
1 May 2010
Vesak Day
28 May 2010
National Day
9 August 2010
Hari Raya Puasa
10 September 2010
Deepavali
5 November 2010
Hari Raya Haji
17 November 2010
Christmas Day
25 December 2010
I want to experience working in Singapore
Apr 7th
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There are two main options on how students can experience working and living in Singapore. Through the Work Holiday Programme and Internships, students will get the opportunity to experience a challenging working environment in Singapore. Students will be exposed to real-world work situations that can be the foundation for their future career. Some companies see internships as a way of assessing the suitability of candidates for full-time employment. Compensation and benefits during internship varies among companies. |
- Work Holiday Programme
- MOM will introduce a Work Holiday Programme (WHP) from 1 December 2007 to allow undergraduates and graduates from overseas to experience living and working in Singapore for a short period. There is a growing trend of well-qualified young people travelling abroad to gain exposure and experience foreign cultures. A positive experience of living and working in Singapore under the programme could encourage some of them to work here when they graduate, or at a later stage in their careers. This programme will help enhance Singapore’s reputation as a talent destination, valued for its working and living experiences.
- Click here for full details on the Work Holiday Programme
- Download brochure
- Download magazine
- Internships
- You must be currently enrolled as a full-time student in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree program. In most cases, you must have completed at least the freshman year. Applicants are encouraged to provide evidence of academic excellence and leadership potential and should have established personal goals leading toward a career in the profession.
- For internship opportunities, here are some links to start you off:
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Important Note:
These internship opportunities are arranged individually and directly with participating companies. Information and application may be obtained by contacting the appropriate internship co-ordinator via the above web links. Contact Singapore does not guarantee internship acceptance by companies, allowances, benefits or insurance, nor does it facilitate entry into Singapore.
Hospitals
Apr 7th
There are well-equipped government and private hospitals in Singapore. Every hospital has a 24-hour Accident and Emergency unit (A&E) to cater to medical emergencies. For hospital admissions, you will need to bring along identification documents, a doctor’s referral letter and a guarantee of payment. In case of an emergency, you may contact any of the hospitals listed here:
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Public Hospital |
Contact Number |
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Singapore General Hospital |
(65) 6222 3322 |
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Tan Tock Seng Hospital |
1800 252 9919 |
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National University Hospital |
1800 772 5555 |
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Changi General Hospital |
(65) 6788 8833 |
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Alexandra Hospital |
(65) 6472 2000 |
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KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital |
(65) 6293 4044 |
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Institute of Mental Health/Woodbridge Hospital |
(65) 6389 2000 |
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Private Hospital |
Contact Number |
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Mount Elizabeth Hospital |
(65) 6737 2666 |
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Gleneagles Hospital |
(65) 6473 7222 |
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Mount Alvernia Hospital (24-hr outpatient) |
(65) 6253 4818 |
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East Shore Hospital |
(65) 6344 7588 |
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Thomson Medical Centre (24-hr outpatient) |
(65) 6256 9494 |
Government and Government Restructured Hospitals
The government and government restructured hospitals offer care of varying levels depending on the ward chosen. There are 6-8 ward classes, from single-bedded wards to 12-bedded and open wards. The government hospitals are Alexandra Hospital and Woodbridge Hospital. Government restructured hospitals are Singapore General Hospital (SGH), Kandang Kerbau (KK) Hospital, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, the National University Hospital (NUH) and Changi General Hospital (CGH).
The fees for X-rays, laboratory tests and surgical operations are charged separately from the ward charges. Daily ward charges depend on the type of ward and the type of hospital. Here’s a guide to the ward charges:
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Ward/Class |
Government Hospitals |
Restructured Hospitals |
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A1 (Single bed) |
S$240.00 |
S$206.00 to S$323.00 |
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A2 (Two-bedded) |
S$195.00 |
S$200.00 to S$215.00 |
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B1 (Aircon four-bedded) |
S$150.00 |
S$145.00 to S$189.00 |
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B1 (Non-aircon four-bedded) |
S$115.00 |
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B2 (Six to 12 beds) |
S$40.00 |
S$39.00 to S$50.00 |
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C (Open ward) |
S$21.00 |
S$20.00 to S$25.00 |
Foreigners and those who are on long-term social visit passes will have to pay more for treatment at the government or government-restructured hospitals. They can only stay in Class A and B1 wards. If they would like to stay in Class B2 or C wards, the charges will double. The charges are:
|
Type of Treatment/Ward |
Fees Chargeable |
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Inpatient /Outpatient Treatment |
At Class A rates |
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Ward Charges |
In accordance to the rates |
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Surcharge |
30% of the total hospital bill |
Individual public hospital charging schemes are available at the eCitizen Web portal.
Private Hospitals
The rates in private hospitals are determined by each individual hospital, and they are generally higher than that of government hospitals. Medication, tests and doctor’s fees are charged separately. Here’s a guide to daily ward charges in private hospitals in Singapore:
|
Ward / Class |
Daily Ward Fee |
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A1 (Single bed) |
S$280.00 onwards |
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A2 (Two-bedded) |
S$220.00 onwards |
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B1 (Aircon four-bedded) |
S$80.00 onwards |
Individual private hospital charging schemes are available at the eCitizen Web portal.
I am a foreigner working in Singapore looking for new opportunities.
Apr 7th
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If you are a professional currently working in Singapore and looking at exploring other opportunities here these are some important information that you would need to know to help you. If you are keen to be updated keep updated on employment trends, career opportunities, events and more, please sign up for our mailing list. |
Things to note before taking the next step:
- Employment Pass
- Please note that any change in employers will require a fresh application of the Employment Pass.
- Employment Pass Eligibility Certificate (EPEC)
- If you are not a Singapore citizen and wish to work in Singapore, you have to first secure a job offer here. To spend some time in Singapore to look for a job, you can apply for the Employment Pass Eligibility Certificate (EPEC). EPEC grants the holder a Social Visit Pass valid for up to one year. The EPEC is issued on a one-time basis and is strictly non-renewable.
- You may apply for EPEC if you hold any of the selected university qualifications or if you are a current or former holder of selected skilled migrant visas. You should apply for an EPEC only when you are ready to come to Singapore. You will still require the relevant visa to enter Singapore (if a visa is required) even if you hold a valid EPEC.
- With effect from 2 May 07, all EPEC applications must be submitted online.
- Personalised Employment Pass (PEP)
- The Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) is a new scheme to facilitate the contributions of global talent to Singapore.
- Currently, the issue of an Employment Pass (EP) is tied to a specific employer. Any change of employer requires a fresh application. If an EP holder leaves the company, his EP is cancelled and he must leave Singapore unless he finds employment with a new company. In contrast, the new PEP is not tied to any employer and will be granted on the strength of an EP holder’s individual merits. A PEP holder is able to remain in Singapore for up to six months in between jobs to evaluate new employment opportunities.
- Click here for more information on PEP.
Tourism
Apr 7th
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Industry Snapshot:
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The tourism sector is an important pillar of Singapore’s economy, accounting for 4% of GDP, 150,000 jobs and S$10.8 billion in tourism receipts.
Singapore has big plans to grow tourism into a key economic engine – tripling tourism receipts to S$30 billion, doubling visitors arrivals to 17 million, and creating an additional 100,000 jobs in the services sector by 2015. These targets will drive future initiatives and catapult growth in the tourism industry over the next decade, catalysed by a S$2 billion Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$14.8 billion in tourism receipts in 2008, representing an 4.8% increase over 2007. This set a new record for tourism receipts. In 2008, Singapore welcomed 10.1 million visitors. Visitor days were estimated to reach 41.3 million days, setting another record and posting an increase of 8.7% in comparison with 2007.
The hotel sector was estimated to achieve an all-time record of $2.1 billion in room revenue in 2008, posting a growth of 12.1% over 2007. Average Occupancy Rate (AOR) was estimated to reach 81%. In spite of the downturn in the latter half of the year, the hotel sector remained robust with both the Average Room Rate (ARR) and Revenue Per Available Room (Revpar) setting new highs. The ARR was estimated to reach S$246 for 2008, an increase of 21.9% over 2007, while Revpar grew by 13.5% to reach S$199.
The upcoming Integrated Resorts (IR) have generated tremendous buzz. They are envisaged to be large-scale iconic developments with a compelling mix of convention and exhibition facilities, themed attractions, entertainment and performances venues, recreation facilities, hotel, retail uses, encompassing a small gaming component, offering a multi-faceted experience. The IRs are expected to boost Singapore’s attractiveness as a destination and enhance our tourism appeal and reputation. Marina Bay Sands incorporates significant MICE facilities to cater to businesses and MICE visitors, while Resorts World Sentosa will be a world-class tropical resort that offers the whole family a fun and memorable experience. The two projects combined with add more than $10 billion in investments to Singapore. Marina Bay Sands will open at the end of 2009, while Resorts World Sentosa will be open in 2010.
In addition to the Integrated Resorts, there are other exciting developments, including:
- The Singapore Flyer, the world’s largest Giant Observation Wheel with a stunning view from 178m above sea-level. It has begun operations on 1 Mar 2008.
- The inaugural 2008 FORMULA 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix night race was held with great success and international attention from 26th Sep to 28th Sep 2008. It will be held again from 25th -27th Sep 2009.
Singapore has also deepened the suite of entertainment, retail and dining options with many new establishments being launched. In the Country Brand Index 2008, a report compiled by FutureBrand and Weber Shandwick, Singapore was ranked globally as the third-best destination for shopping and fourth in fine dining.
On the business front, Singapore has consolidated its position as a premier business city. Just last year, Singapore was ranked the easiest place in the world to do business for the third year in a row, in the "Doing Business 2008" ranking by the World Bank and International Finance Corporation. Singapore was also ranked, for the first time ever, “Top International Meeting City” in the Union of International Associations (UIA) 2007 Global Rankings announced last year.
Singapore is also establishing a strong position as a healthcare and education destination.
Some Major Employers:
Major employers in the Tourism cluster include the Hotels and Accommodation sectors, the Attractions, the MICE sector (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions), Tour and Travel sectors, Food & Beverage as well as Retail establishments.
For more information, please refer to the Singapore Tourism Board website and Tourism Careers@Sg website.
Related websites include Singapore Hotel Association and Restaurant Association of Singapore.
Quality of Life
Apr 7th
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Singapore is amongst one of the best places to live in. Mercer ranked Singapore 1st for its quality of life in Asia (Mercer Human Resource Consulting, Worldwide Quality of Living Index 2007), as well as Asia’s No. 1 place to live, work and play (Mercer Human Resource Consulting 2005-2006). Singapore is one of the most stable societies in Asia. The city fuses modernity with tradition while both are celebrated in equal parts. Its society is multi-racial, multi-religion and multi-lingual. This is reflected through the ethnic mix of Chinese, Malays, Indians, Eurasians and smaller minority groups who make up its population of 4.4 million. |
The relatively low crime rate offers foreign professionals a unique opportunity to live in ease alongside the local community without having to pay a premium for security.
A choice of housing exists for professionals in Singapore to suit individual lifestyles and budgets. Rental apartments can be found in public housing developments, equipped conveniently with its own shopping and entertainment hub, education and healthcare facilities. Private properties, available for rent or purchase, varies from condominiums, to houses and bungalows across various locations on the island.
Living conditions in Singapore are among the best in Asia, with state-of-the-art facilities for education, shopping, sports and recreation. The Global Country Brand Index ranked Singapore as the world’s 2nd for its shopping, nightlife and dining.
International Hub
Apr 7th
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Singapore is one of the best-connected countries in the world, with excellent sea, air and telecommunication links. Ranked as one of the world’s 25 busiest airports by passenger traffic (Airports Council International, 2006), Singapore Changi Airport serves over 35 million travellers annually. Its air network serves 80 airlines operating over 4000 weekly flights to over 180 cities in more than 50 countries. The airport has won countless international awards over the years. At the crossroads of major trade and shipping routes, Singapore is an International Maritime Centre (IMC) with one of the busiest ports in the world, serving an average of 140,000 vessel calls annually. |
Its port facilities and services remain unparalleled in terms of quality, efficiency, competitiveness and reliability. As the world’s second most network-ready country (Global Information Technology Report 2005/06, World Economic Forum), Singapore is a "plug-and-play" nation where online banking & mobile lifestyle have become the norm.
Close to 99% of the population, or almost every home, school and business has access to broadband internet. The government has launched an extensive wireless initiative island-wide where users can enjoy free indoor and outdoor seamless wireless broadband access at most public places.
Visit IDA’s website to find out more about the Wireless@SG Programme.
