Big Read: How Singapore's Budget nearly doubled in a decade – and where the money's going
As Prime Minister Lawrence Wong prepares to unveil Budget 2026 on Feb 12, CNA TODAY took a deep dive into the past decade's worth of Budgets to examine how the Singapore government has balanced spending on short-term needs with investments into long-term competitiveness.
Big Read: From frosted glass walls to anti-ball game void deck barriers, designing public spaces is a tough balancing act
Experts and users agree that public space is not just a physical construct, but a cultural one, shaped by consideration for others and ongoing negotiation between planners, managers and everyday users.
Up Close: Born in a bush and raised in a shelter, this former flight attendant opens up about surviving trauma and chasing a new dream
Born while his mother was homeless and raised largely in a children’s home, Mr Dino Isaac, a former cabin crew member, grappled with mental health struggles and domestic violence and is now determined to pursue a course in social work.
Ground Up: No time to teen - these youths juggle school and work part-time to support their families
Some social service agencies are seeing more young people juggling school and work to help out their families out financially, resulting in burnout at a young age and a longer route to higher education.
Voices: My BTO flat and baby arrived at the same time. Here's what it taught me about planning for financial shocks
For Mr Yuvaraj Uthaman, careful planning went out the window when life decided to go off-script. He reflects on what he has learnt about surviving financial strain, growing up fast and expecting the unexpected.
Adulting: Why I needed extended no-pay leave even though my parents worried my career may suffer
While taking extended time off work might have an impact on one’s finances and career progression, it might be a necessity – and a better option than quitting work.
Mental Health Matters: How to turn your inner critic into a 'good servant' instead of a 'bad master'
Mental health professionals stressed that self-compassion is key to managing one's inner critical voice, encouraging people to treat themselves with the same objectivity and kindness they would offer a friend.
