The first Certificate of Entitlement (COE) bidding exercise for February 2025 saw a further decline in prices, while discussions surrounding public safety and the CMIO model continue to shape Singaporean discourse.
COE Prices Decline
Just when you thought they couldn’t drop any lower, COE prices fell for the second consecutive exercise. Most categories experienced a decrease, reflecting ongoing trends in the automotive market.
- Motorcycle COEs saw a slight increase.
- Overall, this indicates a buyer-friendly market.
Shanmugam Defends CMIO Model
On 5 February 2024, Minister for Home Affairs and Law K Shanmugam defended the Chinese-Malay-Indian-Others (CMIO) framework during a parliamentary session. He argued that the model has been instrumental in maintaining racial harmony in Singapore.
Public Safety Under Scrutiny
Despite Singapore’s reputation for safety, a new survey by AsiaOne reveals a slight dip in public perception regarding safety, particularly in light of recent knife attacks.
- Concerned citizens express worries over rising violence.
- Overall perceptions remain positive, though vigilance is encouraged.
A Shocking Loss in the Entertainment World
In other news, the shockwaves from the sudden death of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu continue to resonate. Her mother and ex-husband have publicly requested compassion as they deal with their loss.
These unfolding events reflect a changing landscape in Singaporean society, where automotive trends, public safety, and cultural impacts intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of local narratives.