Singapore posts positive second quarter figures

Singapore GDP in the second quarter of 2009 expanded by a seasonally adjusted 20.7% compared to the previous quarter. This performance represented a significant improvement from the 12.2% contraction in the first quarter of the year. Momentum in the construction sector grew by 32.7% compared to the first quarter, driven by the growth in both public and private construction activities. Energy Market Authority (EMA), a statutory board under Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry, said that construction of $ 1.5 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal on Jurong Island will start in January 2010, the Business Times reported. The terminal will be built on a 30-hectare site. It will initially comprise two 150,000 cubic-meter tanks with storage capacity of three million tons per annum. This project will help Singapore diversify its gas supplies. EMA has short-listed three groups comprising of Chicago Bridge & Iron Company N.V. (CB&I), Samsung and a consortium led by Whessoe and including SK Engineering & Construction and LG International Corp. It is evaluating the designs and bids to construct the terminal. The main engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract will be awarded by the end of 2009. The company is in talks with the Ministry of Finance (MOF) for project financing and beefing up the ranks of the new Singapore LNG Corporation (SLNG) with foreign LNG experts and local engineers to oversee construction and later manage the operations of the terminal. Research funding According to Singapore's Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore granted SG$27.5 million (US$19.1 million) in research funding in sustainable development. The grants will be awarded to 28 projects in four key areas of sustainable development. The funding from A*STAR's Science and Engineering Research Council (SERC) will support research teams to develop innovative solutions to manage environmental deterioration, pressures on natural resources and climate change brought on by rapid growth and urbanization. Chairman of the SERC Charles Zukoski said, 揟his is part of SERC's efforts to leverage on science and technology. By establishing excellent scientific capabilities and resources, we are able to push technological frontiers in areas pertinent to energy and environment.? Safety training regime for metalwork workers From October 1, issuance and renewal of work permits for metalwork workers will be tied to attendance and passing of the Metalworking Safety Orientation Course (MSOC) test. The Manpower Ministry said this new move ensures that workers have the knowledge needed on workplace safety under an enhanced training regime. To make sure that workers stay current on safety knowledge, they are also required to re-take and pass the test every three years. Workers in the construction and marine sectors are already required to pass an equivalent course to have their work permits issued and renewed. Analysts said some people may have regained confidence to spend again, thanks to early government measures like the Jobs Credit Scheme to help companies cut costs and minimize layoffs. Concerns about employment explain why Singaporeans remain cautious about spending. Observers said cyclical downturns are likely to become more common. While the Singapore government has said it will decide at year- end whether another stimulus package is required, analysts said such interventions can be tweaked into incentives for companies and workers to see, for instance, the importance of lifelong learning in order to counter future slowdowns.Men Nike Air Huarache