Regional News

NHG Health has partnered with general practitioners (GPs) and community organisations to enhance access to diabetic foot and eye screenings in Singapore’s Central and North regions. Launched in November 2023, this initiative aims to facilitate early detection and management of diabetes-related complications by offering screenings at convenient neighbourhood locations.

To date, more than 700 patients have utilised the one-stop screening services, with 92 GP clinics referring patients to 12 designated sites, including Active Ageing Centres, Community Centres, and Resident Networks. These locations were strategically chosen for their proximity to CN-PCN partner GP clinics, ensuring ease of access for patients. Additionally, patients receive support in managing their conditions through nurse counselling at Community Health Posts.

Associate Professor Karen Ng, Director of Central-North Primary Care Network, emphasised the importance of early screening, stating, “Early screening for diabetic foot and eye complications is key to timely intervention and preventing serious issues such as lower limb extremity amputations and diabetic retinopathy.”

The initiative not only improves patient access but also enhances operational efficiency for GPs, allowing them to provide preventive care supported by a team of CN-PCN Nurses and Primary Care Coordinators. Dr Seow En Hao, Medical Director of EH Medical, noted that the partnership allows GPs to offer essential services at subsidised rates, strengthening doctor-patient relationships.

Looking ahead, NHG Health plans to establish at least one community screening location near each cluster of CN-PCN GP clinics by 2026, further expanding access and supporting chronic care management in the community.
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Cornerstone Robotics, a leader in precision surgical systems, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Healthcare Group (NHG) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore. This agreement, witnessed by Singapore’s Minister of Health, aims to advance robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) through clinical research, surgical education, and innovation.

The MOU outlines a focus on telesurgical education and cost-effectiveness studies to improve RAS accessibility. RAS is pivotal in minimally invasive care, enhancing surgical precision and patient recovery through advanced imaging and smart algorithms. Cornerstone Robotics’ Sentire Endoscopic Surgical Robot C1000, developed in-house, has already completed clinical trials in China and Hong Kong, receiving approval from the National Medical Products Administration.

Professor Samuel Au, CEO of Cornerstone Robotics, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are honoured to collaborate with NHG Health and LKCMedicine to further advance RAS in Singapore.” The partnership aims to integrate precision engineering and insights from surgeons to make advanced surgical technology more accessible globally.

Looking forward, the collaboration will focus on driving innovation, expanding clinical impact, and cultivating surgical talent. This initiative represents a significant step towards a more accessible future for surgical care in the region and beyond.
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Singapore’s non-oil domestic exports (NODX) are projected to grow by 2% in 2025, according to RHB Bank’s latest Global Economics and Market Strategy Report. This revision marks an increase from the previous forecast of no growth, highlighting the resilience in regional demand as a critical factor for Singapore’s external sector. Despite the positive outlook, RHB maintains a cautious stance on the broader trade environment.

In June 2025, Singapore’s NODX surged by 13% year-on-year, with a month-on-month seasonally adjusted increase of 14.3%. This sharp rebound follows a 3.9% year-on-year decline in May and surpasses Bloomberg’s estimates of a 5% year-on-year increase. Barnabas Gan, RHB’s Group Chief Economist and Head of Market Research, emphasised the significance of these figures, noting the ongoing strength in regional demand.

The report underscores the importance of Singapore’s trade performance amidst global economic uncertainties. Whilst the upgraded forecast reflects optimism, the bank advises a measured approach given the complexities of the global trade landscape. The resilience of Singapore’s NODX is seen as a positive indicator, yet the broader trade outlook remains cautious.

As the year progresses, the performance of Singapore’s NODX will be closely monitored, with potential implications for the country’s economic strategy and regional trade relations.
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OCBC has announced a significant collaboration with three of Singapore’s leading universities—National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore Management University (SMU)—to advance research in quantum technology. This 12-month partnership aims to explore innovative applications in derivative pricing, data security, and fraud detection.

The collaboration aligns with Singapore’s ambition to become a global hub for quantum technology, supported by a nearly $220 million (S$300 million) investment in research and talent development. This initiative includes building processors for quantum computers and developing industry-specific applications under the National Quantum Computing Hub.

The research findings will be published in technology-focused journals, potentially accelerating the adoption of quantum technology in the banking sector. OCBC, one of the first banks to offer formal quantum technology training, aims to have over 100 employees trained to an intermediate level by 2026.

Quantum computing offers enhanced computational power, enabling faster and more precise financial simulations, whilst post-quantum cryptography aims to secure data against future cyber threats. “The industry-academia exchange is deeply meaningful to us,” said Praveen Raina, Head of Group Operations and Technology at OCBC, highlighting the practical benefits of merging academic expertise with real-world applications.

This collaboration marks a proactive step by OCBC to integrate emerging technologies into its operations, ensuring long-term security and innovation in the financial sector.
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A recent study by Ernst & Young LLP (EY) reveals that a majority of companies listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) are not ready for the upcoming International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) requirements, set to take effect in the financial year 2025. Despite 98% of the 359 companies surveyed having made at least one climate-related disclosure, only 32% have fully complied with all 11 recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

The ISSB standards, which expand upon the TCFD’s core themes of governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics and targets, demand more detailed reporting. Ken Ong, Partner at EY, highlighted the urgency, noting that companies with a financial year ending 31 December have less than six months to transition. “Companies that disclose fully against the TCFD recommendations will find it easier to make the transition,” Ong stated.

The study also found that only 36% of issuers have set net-zero targets, and a mere 9% have disclosed capital allocations for climate-related risks and opportunities. Furthermore, only 17% of companies have linked sustainability performance to remuneration, with larger firms leading in this area.

An increasing number of companies are seeking external assurance for their sustainability reports, with 13% doing so in the last financial year. Ong emphasised the importance of external assurance, stating it enhances investor trust by linking sustainability information with financials.

The report underscores the need for companies to develop robust transition plans and equip staff with sustainability knowledge to meet the new standards. As Nhan Quang, Partner at EY, noted, “Companies with a transition plan are more likely to exhibit better business resilience towards climate events.”
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Singapore’s non-oil domestic exports (NODX) experienced a remarkable 13% year-on-year increase in June, according to UOB Global Economics and Markets Research. This surge significantly surpassed Bloomberg’s consensus estimate of 5%, with non-monetary gold contributing a substantial S$1.3 billion of the S$1.77 billion nominal rise. Electronics exports also saw a boost, growing by 8% year-on-year, largely due to favourable base effects.

The growth in electronics NODX was primarily driven by personal computers, integrated circuits, and disk drives. However, exports to the United States remained weak, contracting by 4.8% year-on-year. In contrast, exports to East Asian markets, particularly Taiwan and South Korea, showed resilience, reflecting demand related to artificial intelligence.

UOB’s report highlighted that Singapore’s GDP growth in the first half of 2025 was supported by the front-loading of exports and manufacturing, anticipating further US tariffs. However, the report cautioned that this momentum might not sustain in the second half of the year, as potential reciprocal tariffs from the US could dampen growth. The impact is expected to be more pronounced in trade-related services rather than manufacturing.

Despite the uncertainties, UOB maintains its full-year 2025 NODX forecast at 1.0-3.0%. The situation remains fluid due to the ongoing tariff discussions, which could influence future projections. The report underscores the importance of monitoring trade policies and their potential impact on Singapore’s export landscape.
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ETC, a part of Realion, has announced the sale of a rare freehold corner shophouse located at 272 East Coast Road in Singapore’s vibrant District 15. The sale will be conducted through an Expression of Interest exercise, closing on 15 August 2025 at 3pm. The property, which boasts dual frontage along Still Road and East Coast Road, covers a site area of 168.3 square metres and offers a gross floor area of 240.7 square metres.

The guide price for the shophouse is set at $7 million (S$9.5 million), translating to $2,700 (S$3,667) per square foot based on the existing gross floor area. This unique property comes with existing approval for serviced flat use and potential for further development, making it an attractive investment opportunity.

Swee Shou Fern, Head of Investment Advisory at ETC, highlighted the property’s appeal, stating, “This is a standout opportunity to acquire a freehold corner shophouse in one of the East-side’s most sought-after lifestyle enclaves. With rare existing approval for serviced flat use and the potential for further intensification, 272 East Coast Road is uniquely positioned to deliver long-term value and capital appreciation.”

The shophouse is expected to attract lifestyle-driven investors and discerning long-stay guests seeking a personalised and authentic stay experience. Its boutique-scale serviced flats housed in a shophouse setting are increasingly sought-after in the market.

The sale of 272 East Coast Road presents a significant opportunity for investors looking to capitalise on the property’s strategic location and potential for capital appreciation.
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Alibaba Cloud has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with CapitaLand Group to expand their collaboration, focusing on digital transformation in China. This agreement, announced on 17 July 2025, builds on their partnership established in 2019 and aims to integrate Alibaba Cloud’s advanced AI technologies, including the large language model Qwen, into CapitaLand’s operations.

The collaboration will see CapitaLand leveraging Alibaba Cloud’s infrastructure to enhance smart operations and customer experiences across its online and offline businesses. The integration of AI applications will enable CapitaLand to develop an insights-driven system for informed business decisions, precision marketing, and risk management. Additionally, Alibaba Cloud’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) solutions will support CapitaLand in creating a low-carbon real estate ecosystem.

Puah Tze Shyang, CEO of CapitaLand Investment (China), expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “We believe that through deeper cooperation with Alibaba will elevate our collaboration to a new level.” Jessie Zheng, Chief Strategy Officer of Alibaba Cloud Intelligence, added, “This renewed collaboration underscores our shared commitment to fostering innovation and building a seamless online and offline ecosystem.”

Since their initial collaboration in 2015, Alibaba Cloud and CapitaLand have achieved significant results, including reducing IT infrastructure costs by migrating CapitaLand’s systems to Alibaba Cloud. The enhanced partnership aims to further advance technological innovation in the real estate sector, leveraging the strengths of both organisations to foster development between digital and real economies.
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Guardian, Singapore’s leading health and wellness retailer, has unveiled a new mobile application designed to streamline the shopping experience for health, beauty, and wellness products. The app, launched on 17 July 2025, aims to connect in-store and online experiences, offering a comprehensive range of products and services at customers’ fingertips.

The Guardian app allows users to browse thousands of products, from vitamins and supplements to skincare items, all within a single platform. A barcode scanner feature provides instant product information and usage tips, enhancing the shopping experience. Additionally, the app supports Guardian’s commitment to preventive health by enabling users to locate nearby stores, check pharmacist availability, and book services such as diabetes care, smoking cessation, and medical teleconsultations.

Integrated with yuu Rewards, Singapore’s top rewards programme, the app offers customers the chance to earn points with every purchase. Exclusive in-app discounts and promotions, such as $1 Daily Deals and daily flash deals with up to 50% off, are available until 13 August 2025. New users can also benefit from an $8 Click & Collect voucher upon sign-up.

Leong Chao Yang, Guardian Singapore Business Development & Omnichannel Director, stated, “The launch of the new mobile app is a key part of Guardian’s digital acceleration journey as we strive to be our customers’ trusted health and wellness adviser.”

The app is now available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, marking a significant step in Guardian’s digital transformation and commitment to customer convenience and care.
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New home sales in Singapore have surged by 145.3% year-on-year in the first half of 2025, according to the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).

This significant increase comes despite a decline in monthly sales for the fourth consecutive month in June, highlighting the private market’s resilience amidst an improving mortgage environment, according to a Realion Group note. The ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties have led more investors to view private homes as safe-haven assets.

In June 2025, new private home sales, excluding executive condominiums (ECs), fell to 272 units, a 12.8% decrease from May’s 312 units. Including ECs, sales dropped 9.2% from 336 units in May to 305 units in June. However, on a year-on-year basis, sales excluding ECs rose by 19.3%, up from 228 units in June 2024. For the first half of 2025, a total of 4,634 new units were sold, marking a substantial increase from the 1,889 units transacted in the same period last year.

Two notable projects launched in District 15 last month were Arina East Residences and Amber House, both achieving median prices close to S$3,000 per square foot. These developments attracted interest due to their prime locations near MRT stations and recreational amenities.

Sales in June were primarily driven by the Rest of Central Region (RCR), accounting for 69.5% of transactions, followed by the Outside Central Region (OCR) and Core Central Region (CCR). The luxury market also saw steady interest, with four condominiums sold for over S$10 million.

Looking ahead, Chief Researcher and Strategist of Realion Group, Christine Sun said there are more projects are expected to launch in the second half of the year, potentially spurring further buying interest. Upcoming developments include The Robertson Opus, River Green, and W Residences Singapore – Marina View, offering a diverse range of options for buyers.
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