Singapore's virus-hit economy suffers worst decline in 2020

14 Sept 01:28 Key points summarised by AI

Singapore's economy recorded its worst-ever annual contraction in 2020, shrinking 5.8% as the coronavirus pandemic severely impacted vital trade and tourism sectors.
Despite the significant downturn, the decline was less severe than initial forecasts, attributed to the easing of restrictions and a recovery in economic activity, particularly in manufacturing and strong exports.
Economists project a substantial rebound of around six percent for Singapore's economy in 2021, driven by continued relaxation of curbs and robust global demand for goods like microchips and medicines.

Detained Suu Kyi receives UK royal package: Myanmar govt

Yesterday 03:08 Key points summarised by AI

Myanmar's detained Nobel laureate, Aung San Suu Kyi, received a package from Britain's King Charles III, which included two gardening books, a sealed envelope, and diplomatic communication.
The event marked the first release of images of Suu Kyi in two months and saw Myanmar authorities describe her as a "special female prisoner" for the first time.
Suu Kyi, who was deposed in a 2021 military coup that triggered an ongoing civil war, remains under house arrest on charges that rights groups contend are politically motivated.