Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Financial Savvy Test #4
Take a test of your financial knowledge by answering the questions below. You can find the answer from www.tankinlian.com/information.aspx - type in the keyword to search for the relevant FAQ
1. How can I invest in a low cost investment fund? Keyword: low cost
2. Should I buy term insurance up to 99 years? Keyword 99 years
Wine investors website
Some people have invested in wine products under representations that the investments will achieve a significant capital gain at the end of the investment period. These investors have also been pressured to make additional investments to protect their earlier investments. Many investors are now holding several wine products and have not been realise the gains that were earlier projected.
This website allows these investors to get together to discuss how their can protect their investments. If you have invested in wine products and wish to meet with other investors, you can register in this website (membership is free). After registration and confirmation of membership, you will be allowed to view the information pages that are reserved only for members. You can also register to attend events and meetings to meet other investors.
Movie Club
I carried out a survey recently. There was strong interest in the formation of a Movie Club. There were also many people who go to the movies many times in a year.
I wish to invite you to register for the Movie Club. This is just to register your interest. If there are more than 500 people who are interested, I will arrange for a protem committee to be formed to register the club.
Movie club:
http://www.easyapps.sg/assn/Org/Default.aspx?id=6
I wish to invite you to register for the Movie Club. This is just to register your interest. If there are more than 500 people who are interested, I will arrange for a protem committee to be formed to register the club.
Movie club:
http://www.easyapps.sg/assn/Org/Default.aspx?id=6
Don't look left or right
Here is an article by Dr. Wong Wee Nam
http://theonlinecitizen.com/2011/03/don%e2%80%99t-look-left-or-right/
"The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have enough. It is whether we provide enough for those who have little."
Franklin D Roosevelt (1882-1945)
United States, 32nd president
"A nation that is afraid to let its people judge the truth and falsehood in an open market is a nation that is afraid of its people." JFK
http://theonlinecitizen.com/2011/03/don%e2%80%99t-look-left-or-right/
"The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have enough. It is whether we provide enough for those who have little."
Franklin D Roosevelt (1882-1945)
United States, 32nd president
"A nation that is afraid to let its people judge the truth and falsehood in an open market is a nation that is afraid of its people." JFK
Elderly patient with cancer
Here is a story about the dilemma faced by a family in treating an elderly mother for cancer. See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Financial Savvy Test #3
Take a test of your financial knowledge by answering the questions below. You can find the answer from
www.tankinlian.com/information.aspx - type in the keyword to search for the relevant FAQ
www.tankinlian.com/information.aspx - type in the keyword to search for the relevant FAQ
1. Should you make a claim and lose the no claim discount? Keyword: no claim discount
2. Should an elderly person buy Medishield or private Shield? Keyword: elderly
GST - troublesome and ridiculous
My friend runs an insurance agency. He has received incentive payments from insurance companies for the past years. Recently, he was told that the incentive payments attract GST. He has to collect GST from the insurance companies, and pay the GST to IRAS. Because of the unclarity of GST for such payments, he did not collect the GST in the past. To comply with the a recent circular, he has to collect the GST for the past years from the insurance companies. y. He was also levied a fine for failing to obey the GST law.
It will take him some time to collect the GST from the insurance companies - but he paid the GST first to IRAS. After making the pyment, the insurance company can recover the GST back from IRAS. the government. Yes - it is an exercise of futility. It is troublesome and unnecessary work that add to the cost of doing business in Singapore. Many businesses have experienced high operating cost and can only survive by over-charging consumers. It has became a vicious circle.
My friend has approached a senior IRAS officer on this matter to explain that this is an exercise in futility. But the senior officer refuse to make an exception and insisted on following the book. This is quite common in Singapore.
Tan Kin Lian
It will take him some time to collect the GST from the insurance companies - but he paid the GST first to IRAS. After making the pyment, the insurance company can recover the GST back from IRAS. the government. Yes - it is an exercise of futility. It is troublesome and unnecessary work that add to the cost of doing business in Singapore. Many businesses have experienced high operating cost and can only survive by over-charging consumers. It has became a vicious circle.
My friend has approached a senior IRAS officer on this matter to explain that this is an exercise in futility. But the senior officer refuse to make an exception and insisted on following the book. This is quite common in Singapore.
Tan Kin Lian
Monday, March 21, 2011
FISCA - Consumer Guide to Insurance
This talk on insurance is organised by FISCA for members and the public. It shows how to select the right insurance policies and make big savings on the insurance premiums. My new book "Get Value on your Life Insurance" will be available for sale to the participants at a special price of $6 (usual $12).
Register for the talk now. It is scheduled for 26 March from 2 to 5 pm at SMU. Register at www.fisca.sg/events under the title "Insuring your Financial Future" or "Consumer Guide to Insurance".
Register for the talk now. It is scheduled for 26 March from 2 to 5 pm at SMU. Register at www.fisca.sg/events under the title "Insuring your Financial Future" or "Consumer Guide to Insurance".
Financial Savvy Test #2
Take a test of your financial knowledge by answering the questions below. You can find the answer from
www.tankinlian.com/information.aspx - type in the keyword to search for the relevant FAQ
www.tankinlian.com/information.aspx - type in the keyword to search for the relevant FAQ
1. If you have to find a lawyer and wish to keep the cost low, what is a way to achieve this? Keyword: lawyer
2. what is the approach towards “self insurance” as an alternative to paying premium for insurance protections? Keyword: self insurance
Risk management and insurance
Here are some tips on when to self-insure (i.e. retain) and when to insure a risk.
See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
Sale of books by LKY
Dear Mr. Tan,
When we work for a company, whatever we create on company time is property of company.
LKY was speaking as MM and doing the interview with the reporters in his office / government premises. so the content should property of government and therefore public property.
Now, LKY is selling his book and making profit from it?
Is this ethical?
SV
REPLY
I recall that, in the past, the proceeds from the sale of books by LKY are donated to charity.
When we work for a company, whatever we create on company time is property of company.
LKY was speaking as MM and doing the interview with the reporters in his office / government premises. so the content should property of government and therefore public property.
Now, LKY is selling his book and making profit from it?
Is this ethical?
SV
REPLY
I recall that, in the past, the proceeds from the sale of books by LKY are donated to charity.
SMS donation for Japan Earthquake and Disaster Aid
Dear Mr. Tan,
I note your blog article regarding the difficulty of donating via DBS internet banking. I agree and encountered the same kind difficulty as well, and was not successful in donating through this channel.
If you wish, you may want to inform your readers that the easiest way to donate $50 to Singapore Red Cross for the Japan earthquake and tsunami aid is through SMS.
To donate $50 by SMS, send the text message "REDCROSS" to 75772. Each SMS carries a charge of 30 cents. This donation is not tax-deductible.
Sources:
http://www.redcross.org.sg/Donation-Channels-Japan-Tsunami-Earthquake.phtml
http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_645264.html
I note your blog article regarding the difficulty of donating via DBS internet banking. I agree and encountered the same kind difficulty as well, and was not successful in donating through this channel.
If you wish, you may want to inform your readers that the easiest way to donate $50 to Singapore Red Cross for the Japan earthquake and tsunami aid is through SMS.
To donate $50 by SMS, send the text message "REDCROSS" to 75772. Each SMS carries a charge of 30 cents. This donation is not tax-deductible.
Sources:
http://www.redcross.org.sg/Donation-Channels-Japan-Tsunami-Earthquake.phtml
http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_645264.html
Easy Ads
Do you wish to look for a part time job near your home? Or to provide tuition to a student near your home? Or to rent a room near your workplace? You can post your ads (for free) or search for an ad in Easy Ads, http://easyapps.sg/ads/
How to invest a lump sum
Mr Tan,
I seek your advise on how best to maximise returns on my SGD250,000 cash savings. My daughter also has SGD 50,000 placed in a SGD-Fixed Deposit with Maybank with an 0.8% return.
REPLY
Read this
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=437
I seek your advise on how best to maximise returns on my SGD250,000 cash savings. My daughter also has SGD 50,000 placed in a SGD-Fixed Deposit with Maybank with an 0.8% return.
REPLY
Read this
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=437
Be educated on financial matters
Hi Mr Tan,
Is it alright to just buy a term insurance for protection and purely STI ETF for my investment?
REPLY
Read this FAQ
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=437
Is it alright to just buy a term insurance for protection and purely STI ETF for my investment?
REPLY
Read this FAQ
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=437
Emerging Asia can teach the West a lot about government
A special report on Singapore from the Economist magazine - giving the positive aspects.
http://easyapps.sg/sgep/admin/file.aspx?id=75
http://easyapps.sg/sgep/admin/file.aspx?id=75
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Financial Savvy Test #1
Are you financially savvy? Here is a simple test. You can find the answer from TKL Website -Information tab and type the keyword to search for the FAQ that contains the answer.
1. Does travel insurance cover nuclear risks? (keyword: nuclear)
Answer: __________
2. Who can you approach to review your existing insurance policy? (keyword: review)
Answer: ________
Financial Plan - DIY
Read this document and prepare your personal financial plan. After that, pass the document to your friends and family members. Show them how to do their financial plans. It will help them to prepare for a better financial future.
Risk management and internet banking transfers
Banks should adopt a more sensible approach towards risk management of internet banking transfer and make it more convenient for their customers to make small payments without going through so much hassle. See TKL website- latest or click here.
Opposition Newbies
Dear Mr. Tan,
The Sunday Times introduced the opposition candidates as "newbies". I wonder if they will use the same term to describe the new PAP candidates? If not, there is a subtle attempt to disparage the opposition candidates - which is sad for a mainstream media - even one that is closely linked to the ruling party.
Sebastian
The Sunday Times introduced the opposition candidates as "newbies". I wonder if they will use the same term to describe the new PAP candidates? If not, there is a subtle attempt to disparage the opposition candidates - which is sad for a mainstream media - even one that is closely linked to the ruling party.
Sebastian
Travel insurance and nuclear risks
Should an insurer reject claims under its travel insurance policies for flight delays or cancellations due to the leakage of radiation from the Fukushima power plant? Read Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
For FISCA members only - F&N Bonds
Here is an analysis of the F&N bonds - for information of FISCA members only. FISCA members will be provided with the login to the new website (tentatively, to be launched on 2 April 2011). There is a section containing the evaluation of many financial products.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
A clear and sensible speech
Dear Mr. Tan
Please post this link to a speech by Dr. Chee Soon Juan. He spoke with great clarity and sense. I find his speech to be inspiring.
http://www.yoursdp.org/index.php/news/singapore/4673--hard-truths-about-ministerial-wages-#JOSC_TOP
Wee
Please post this link to a speech by Dr. Chee Soon Juan. He spoke with great clarity and sense. I find his speech to be inspiring.
http://www.yoursdp.org/index.php/news/singapore/4673--hard-truths-about-ministerial-wages-#JOSC_TOP
Wee
Dilemma of the Poor
Dear Mr Tan
Hope you can publish my experience for comment.
This morning I was at a food centre and an old lady in a wheel-chair selling tissue paper told me, "I saw government people giving presents to foreigner workers. Here I am struggling to survive."
I said with the election coming, shouldn't you vote opposition to change things."Can I vote opposition?" she asked with a searching eye. I said assuringly that government agencies that helped her would still be around if the PAP lost.
"I would vote PAP. I will have to vote for them till my dying day. I only hope they do more for us disadvantaged folks," the old lady answered with a sigh of resignation.
Herein lies the dilemma of the poor. They depend on the government for handouts, but are afraid a change will be for the worst. Better the devil you know than the one you don't.
TCH
Hope you can publish my experience for comment.
This morning I was at a food centre and an old lady in a wheel-chair selling tissue paper told me, "I saw government people giving presents to foreigner workers. Here I am struggling to survive."
I said with the election coming, shouldn't you vote opposition to change things."Can I vote opposition?" she asked with a searching eye. I said assuringly that government agencies that helped her would still be around if the PAP lost.
"I would vote PAP. I will have to vote for them till my dying day. I only hope they do more for us disadvantaged folks," the old lady answered with a sigh of resignation.
Herein lies the dilemma of the poor. They depend on the government for handouts, but are afraid a change will be for the worst. Better the devil you know than the one you don't.
TCH
Ad-hoc payment through the Internet
Here is my proposal for a convenient method of allowing ad-hoc payment through the Internet. I hope that the Monetary Authority of Singapore will consider it.
A journey of frustration - DBS Internet Payment
Dear Customer Service Manager of DBS Bank
I enclose a feedback for your attention. May I request that you send this feedback to your CEO, Mr. Piyush Gupta?
Please acknowledgement my request promptly.
Dear webmaster of MAS
Please assist me to forward this feedback to your colleague in MAS that is in charge of regulating the banks.
I search the MAS website and could not find any person to send this feedback to.
Please acknowledge my request and tell me who you have forwarded it to.
Donate to the Japan Disaster Fund
Read here
http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_645264.html
I urge Singaporeans to donate to the Japan disaster through the Singapore Red Cross. You can donate through ATM or write a cheque.
Cheque donations made payable to the 'Singapore Red Cross Society' and sent to the Singapore Red Cross at 15 Penang Lane, Singapore 238486. You should indicate at the back of the cheque the following: Japan Disaster 2011, the name of the donor, contact number and address.
From today till April 13, customers of OCBC, DBS and United Overseas Bank can also make a donation via ATM, mobile and Internet banking. Donors can get more details by logging on to the banks' websites.
http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_645264.html
I urge Singaporeans to donate to the Japan disaster through the Singapore Red Cross. You can donate through ATM or write a cheque.
Cheque donations made payable to the 'Singapore Red Cross Society' and sent to the Singapore Red Cross at 15 Penang Lane, Singapore 238486. You should indicate at the back of the cheque the following: Japan Disaster 2011, the name of the donor, contact number and address.
From today till April 13, customers of OCBC, DBS and United Overseas Bank can also make a donation via ATM, mobile and Internet banking. Donors can get more details by logging on to the banks' websites.
Friday, March 18, 2011
A mature person
I spoke to a German lady who married a Singaporean and had lived in Singapore for 30 years. She explained the key feature of the German education system to me. During her time, and that was 3 decades ago, she was selected to be in the "gymnasium" stream. Students who had the ability to think logically and abstractly were selected for this stream. This was the stream that went into university and, during her time, comprised the top 5% of each cohort.
On completing the gymnasium school, she received a Certificate of Maturity. Her school principal told her that shw was certified to be mature, which meant that she was able to think and decide on her own, and to learn new things on her own. She was "mature".
I was impressed with this approach. It is what education should be. I find that our education system produced a different type of person, who is not confident of taking decisions and responsibility. Our education system do not produce "mature" people.
A university professor, who has taught for many years, observed that many Singaporeans mature when they are 40 years old. Before that, they were not confident and had to be told what to do. I agree with her observation about the (lack of ) maturity of Singaporeans. Some never mature at all.
Tan Kin Lian
On completing the gymnasium school, she received a Certificate of Maturity. Her school principal told her that shw was certified to be mature, which meant that she was able to think and decide on her own, and to learn new things on her own. She was "mature".
I was impressed with this approach. It is what education should be. I find that our education system produced a different type of person, who is not confident of taking decisions and responsibility. Our education system do not produce "mature" people.
A university professor, who has taught for many years, observed that many Singaporeans mature when they are 40 years old. Before that, they were not confident and had to be told what to do. I agree with her observation about the (lack of ) maturity of Singaporeans. Some never mature at all.
Tan Kin Lian
Buying motor insurance directly
My friend wish to share his pleasant experience
http://thinkhappiness.blogspot.com/2011/03/buying-motor-insurance.html
http://thinkhappiness.blogspot.com/2011/03/buying-motor-insurance.html
Think of the poorest person
Dear Mr. Tan
How I wish to say this at each opening of our parliamentary sessions.
Think of the poorest person you have ever seen and ask if your next act will be of any use to him.
- Mahatma Gandhi (1869 - 1948)
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Talk at Tampines Regional Library
Title: Talk on Sudoku and Puzzles
Speaker: Tan Kin Lian
Date: 19 March 2011
Time: 3pm to 4.30 pm
Venue: Tampines Regional Library, Auditorium (Level 3)
You can register in advance by calling the Tampines Libary. The library also accepts walk-in participants on the day.
My puzzle books will be available on sale at 50% discount:
Complete set of Sudoku, Intelligence Quiz, Tangram, Shape Quiz: $14 (usual: $27.80)
Speaker: Tan Kin Lian
Date: 19 March 2011
Time: 3pm to 4.30 pm
Venue: Tampines Regional Library, Auditorium (Level 3)
You can register in advance by calling the Tampines Libary. The library also accepts walk-in participants on the day.
My puzzle books will be available on sale at 50% discount:
Complete set of Sudoku, Intelligence Quiz, Tangram, Shape Quiz: $14 (usual: $27.80)
SM Goh to S'poreans: Learn from Japan disaster
Dear Mr. Tan,
I posted an article in my Blog and in SGEP.
A response to "SM Goh to S'poreans: Learn from Japan disaster".
Will we stay a "kintaro-ame" nation, SM Goh?
[De Leviathan @ Sg]
C H
De Leviathan
http://de-leviathan.blogspot.com
SGEP
www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx
I posted an article in my Blog and in SGEP.
A response to "SM Goh to S'poreans: Learn from Japan disaster".
Will we stay a "kintaro-ame" nation, SM Goh?
[De Leviathan @ Sg]
C H
De Leviathan
http://de-leviathan.blogspot.com
SGEP
www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx
General election poem
Monday, March 14, 2011
Book: Get value for your life insurance
This book is now available for purchase by mail. First copy is for $12 (postage free). Additional copies are available at $9. (You can buy for your friends).
See: http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=375 (cover has been changed)
By cheque
1. Send cheque made out to Tan Kin Lian & Associates Pte Ltd
2. Mail cheque to 24 Sin Ming Lane #02-107
3. Write down you mailing address and number of books that you wish to order.
By Internet banking
1. Send an email to inbox@tankinlian.com with your mailing address and number of copies
2. Pay by internet banking to DBS Shenton Way account no: 003-9045980
Act now. You can save a lot of money by buying the good life insurance policies and avoiding the bad life insurance products.
Tan Kin Lian
See: http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=375 (cover has been changed)
By cheque
1. Send cheque made out to Tan Kin Lian & Associates Pte Ltd
2. Mail cheque to 24 Sin Ming Lane #02-107
3. Write down you mailing address and number of books that you wish to order.
By Internet banking
1. Send an email to inbox@tankinlian.com with your mailing address and number of copies
2. Pay by internet banking to DBS Shenton Way account no: 003-9045980
Act now. You can save a lot of money by buying the good life insurance policies and avoiding the bad life insurance products.
Tan Kin Lian
Taking care of the low income families
Here is an example of the view of a PAP MP and an alternative view:
http://siewkumhong.blogspot.com/2011/03/response-to-questions-from-hri-kumar.html
The PAP's response is "Singaporeans are lazy and will take advantage of welfare". This does not reflect what I know of many Singaporeans - who are willing to work hard for a fair wage." The PAP leaders should learn to respect and trust Singaporeans, so that the people can return the trust and respect to the leaders.
http://siewkumhong.blogspot.com/2011/03/response-to-questions-from-hri-kumar.html
The PAP's response is "Singaporeans are lazy and will take advantage of welfare". This does not reflect what I know of many Singaporeans - who are willing to work hard for a fair wage." The PAP leaders should learn to respect and trust Singaporeans, so that the people can return the trust and respect to the leaders.
Complaining Singaporeans and leaders
Pointing fingers
I saw a letter in Today about the experience of a resident who lodged a complaint with the Police about a noisy motorist in the early morning. The policeman referred the resident to the Land Transport Authority (if this is a traffic offence) or to the National Environment Agency (if this is a noise pollution). This is finger pointing carried out to the extreme. It is an extremely bad culture that has developed in Singapore - following the examples of our ministers who also point fingers at each other. Why has Singapore reached this shameful state?
Tan Kin Lian
Tan Kin Lian
Robert Kuok's personal thoughts on wealth and capitalism
Robert Kuok is SE Asia's richest person. He shares his views on wealth and capitalism. Some of his thoughts have relevance to the current situation in Singapore (my interpretation, not his). See TKL website or click here.
Quotes:
When I hire staff I look for honest, hardworking, intelligent people. When I look candidates in the eye, they must appear very honest to me. I do not look for MBAs or exceptional students. You may hire a brilliant man, summa cum laude, first-class honours, but if his mind is not a fair one or if he has a warped attitude in life, does brilliance really matter?
Quotes:
When I hire staff I look for honest, hardworking, intelligent people. When I look candidates in the eye, they must appear very honest to me. I do not look for MBAs or exceptional students. You may hire a brilliant man, summa cum laude, first-class honours, but if his mind is not a fair one or if he has a warped attitude in life, does brilliance really matter?
I have learnt that the success of a company must depend on the unity of all its employees. We are all in the same boat rowing against the current and tide and every able person must pull the oars to move the boat forward. Also, we must relentlessly endeavour to maintain and practise the values of integrity and honesty, and eschew and reject greed and arrogance.
In capitalism, man needs elements of ambition and greed to drive him. But where does ambition end and greed take over? That's why I say that capitalism, if left to its own devices, will snowball along, roll down the hill and cause a lot of damage. So a sound capitalist system
requires very strongly led, enlightened, wise governments. That means politician-statesmen willing to sacrifice their lives for the sake of their people. I don't mean politicians who are there for fame, glory and to line their pockets.
requires very strongly led, enlightened, wise governments. That means politician-statesmen willing to sacrifice their lives for the sake of their people. I don't mean politicians who are there for fame, glory and to line their pockets.
Wealth should be used for two main purposes. One: for the generation of greater wealth; in other words, you continue to invest, creating prosperity and jobs in the country. Two: part of your wealth should be applied to the betterment of mankind, either by acts of pure philanthropy or by investment in research and development along the frontiers of science, space, health care and so forth.
Radiation up 400 times in Miyagi, new blast feared at Fukushima
Russia Today (RT) broadcasting from Washington, DC, is providing excellent coverge of the Japanese earthquake, tsunami and nuclear power meltdown.
Tsunami and Japan
The Japanese coined the word "tsunami" to describe the terror waves caused by an earthquake. They have experienced the tsunami many times during their long history.
In recent history, the word was borrowed to describe the terror waves that killed 300,000 people following the Sumatra earthquake in 2004. Six years later, the Japanese had the misfortune to experience the tsunami again. Quite sad!
In recent history, the word was borrowed to describe the terror waves that killed 300,000 people following the Sumatra earthquake in 2004. Six years later, the Japanese had the misfortune to experience the tsunami again. Quite sad!
Odd to Nature
Here's a beautiful power point about what nature gives to man, and what man does in return. See TKL Website or click here.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
How to invest $100,000?
How to invest $100,000? Here is how you can be financially savvy to make the right decision. See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
The purpose of college education
To the Editor, NYT
The larger benefit of college is the development of critical thinking, which helps individuals identify and develop new work and business opportunities, manage personal finances, lead healthy lives, raise fulfilled children, participate in politics as informed citizens and obey the law.
This is why Americans need a college education.
Jack Herschlag
Upper Montclair, N.J.
The larger benefit of college is the development of critical thinking, which helps individuals identify and develop new work and business opportunities, manage personal finances, lead healthy lives, raise fulfilled children, participate in politics as informed citizens and obey the law.
This is why Americans need a college education.
Jack Herschlag
Upper Montclair, N.J.
Too much thinking, too little execution?
Sent by a citizen to the government's Cut Waste Panel
Suggestion
While it is silly to bring a chain saw into a forest and keep cutting down trees without knowing exactly which trees to cut; it is also to me an overkill when you have so many Ministers in the PMO doing coordinating work but not having enough officers at the lower levels to execute policies and understand the needs of the people. Example one --- you have coordination minister in the PMO on security but not enough police officers around to deter crimes. Case in point, slashing at downtown east leading to one death. Example two -- you have education coordinating minister but not enough teachers to reduce class size. Example three -- you have the brains setting traffic rules (like zig zags, double zig zags) but not enough traffic police and wardens catching the offenders.
Citizen
Suggestion
While it is silly to bring a chain saw into a forest and keep cutting down trees without knowing exactly which trees to cut; it is also to me an overkill when you have so many Ministers in the PMO doing coordinating work but not having enough officers at the lower levels to execute policies and understand the needs of the people. Example one --- you have coordination minister in the PMO on security but not enough police officers around to deter crimes. Case in point, slashing at downtown east leading to one death. Example two -- you have education coordinating minister but not enough teachers to reduce class size. Example three -- you have the brains setting traffic rules (like zig zags, double zig zags) but not enough traffic police and wardens catching the offenders.
Citizen
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Excellent customer service
My friend sent this e-mail to me, showing how a magazine treats its customer well. Our Singapore companies should emulate such good examples.
The interruption to our web services resulted in a number of magazine deliveries to be delayed to readers from March 2-10. We noticed that you are subscribed to one of those titles. To see if your issues have been delivered yet, please click here. For questions on a specific title, please emailmymagazine@zinio.com.
We know your subscriptions are important to you. We know that you've come to expect a high level of service from Zinio. We would like to make it up to you. We have extended your impacted magazine subscription(s) for one additional month. This has been done automatically in our records. There is no action that you need to take.
Additionally, because you have been such a trusted and valued customer, we will be sending you a Zinio Gift Card under separate cover within the next week.
Over the past ten years, our customers, like yourself, have come to enjoy and expect the high quality online experiences Zinio has delivered. We thank you for your patience, understanding and continued loyalty.
Sincerely,
Jeanniey Mullen
Chief Marketing Officer, Zinio
jmullen@zinio.com | @empg
Dear chee,
On March 2, Zinio experienced a technical outage that resulted in limited access to our online shopping and reading services. We would like to make it up to you.
On March 2, Zinio experienced a technical outage that resulted in limited access to our online shopping and reading services. We would like to make it up to you.
The interruption to our web services resulted in a number of magazine deliveries to be delayed to readers from March 2-10. We noticed that you are subscribed to one of those titles. To see if your issues have been delivered yet, please click here. For questions on a specific title, please emailmymagazine@zinio.com.
We know your subscriptions are important to you. We know that you've come to expect a high level of service from Zinio. We would like to make it up to you. We have extended your impacted magazine subscription(s) for one additional month. This has been done automatically in our records. There is no action that you need to take.
Additionally, because you have been such a trusted and valued customer, we will be sending you a Zinio Gift Card under separate cover within the next week.
Over the past ten years, our customers, like yourself, have come to enjoy and expect the high quality online experiences Zinio has delivered. We thank you for your patience, understanding and continued loyalty.
Sincerely,
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Chief Marketing Officer, Zinio
jmullen@zinio.com | @empg
Easy Ads - design a good ad
If you wish to rent out your property or sell your car, and you need a detailed ad to be created (in PDF), you can get the assistance of an Agent. Go to http://easyapps.sg/ads/ and click on Agent. There is a sample ad for you to view.
click here for the sample ad.
click here for the sample ad.
Finding a lawyer
Many people are afraid of using a lawyer because of the high and uncertain legal fees. Here is a way to keep the fees within a manageable sum. Go to Ask Mr. Tan (search for "lawyer") or click here.
Top salaries to be paid back
Dear Mr. Tan,
Read this article about Warren Buffett. “You need a person at the top who has all the downside that somebody has that loses their job working at an auto factory,” he said in an interview released by the panel in February. If a company fails, management should “give back five times the highest compensation they received in the previous five years.”
Should our President and Ministers pay back their salaries when Singapore is in recessions? Should some Ministers get sacked when the Ministries they in-charge of fail to deliver acceptable services to citizens?
Dare to Ask
Read this article about Warren Buffett. “You need a person at the top who has all the downside that somebody has that loses their job working at an auto factory,” he said in an interview released by the panel in February. If a company fails, management should “give back five times the highest compensation they received in the previous five years.”
Should our President and Ministers pay back their salaries when Singapore is in recessions? Should some Ministers get sacked when the Ministries they in-charge of fail to deliver acceptable services to citizens?
Lending the poor a helping hand
http://www.sgpolitics.
--
"A nation that is afraid to let its people judge the truth and falsehood in an open market is a nation that is afraid of its people." JFK
Wong Wee Nam
--
"A nation that is afraid to let its people judge the truth and falsehood in an open market is a nation that is afraid of its people." JFK
Wong Wee Nam
TODAYonline: 70 customers demanding S$249,000 from True Spa
SINGAPORE - Three months after they were deemed not to be creditors of Subtle Senses - and hence not entitled to any proceeds from its ongoing liquidation - 70 True Spa clients are demanding about S$249,000 from True Spa.
They issued three letters of statutory demand, under the name of two members, to True Spa on Thursday and Friday, said their lawyer Salem Ibrahim. The 70 customers want the spa to honour the judgment sums they had...
URL: http://www.todayonline.com/Singapore/EDC110312-0000089/70-customers-demanding-S$249,000-from-True-Spa
They issued three letters of statutory demand, under the name of two members, to True Spa on Thursday and Friday, said their lawyer Salem Ibrahim. The 70 customers want the spa to honour the judgment sums they had...
URL: http://www.todayonline.com/Singapore/EDC110312-0000089/70-customers-demanding-S$249,000-from-True-Spa
Friday, March 11, 2011
Heartlands Book Club to discuss “Wisdom on How to Live Life”
Date/Time: 18 March 2011 at 5.00pm
Tommy Wong’s book is available at Tan Kin Lian’s office.
Venue: The Activity Room, Bukit Batok Public Library
Title/Author: “Wisdom on How to Live Life” by Tommy Wong
Title/Author: “Wisdom on How to Live Life” by Tommy Wong
More information about the meeting can be found here.
Tommy Wong’s book is available at Tan Kin Lian’s office.
Easy for agents to cheat
Does your life insurance company make it easy for their agents to cheat their customers? Here is a way to find out. See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
Booking of cinema tickets
There is strong interest in a movie club to enjoy discounts on tickets from the cinemas. I will try to get someone interested to organize this movie club. I need the following information. When you book tickets online, what are the charges that you have to bear? Do you have to collect the tickets from the ticket office in advance, failing which the tickets are released to the public? Do you incur any penalty?
Review of your life insurance policy
If you wish to have an independent review of your life insurance policy, you can contact an expert listed here.
See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
Tips on buying insurance
Here are some tips on how to find the right insurance policy and pay a fair premium (i.e. do not be ripped off). See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Easy Ads
This is an advertisement portal. It is free for use by advertisers. You can use the use this portal for the following:
- Advertise rooms for rental
- Advertise tuition services
- Advertise handy man and repair services
- Looking for jobs
Most people wish to search for a room, or tutor or handyman near their home or place of work. This portal has a special feature to allow you to search for ads based on locality, price range, type of service and other useful features.
Look at guide for instructions on how to use this portal.
Rent a room?
Do you want to rent a room to foreigners and supplement your monthly income? Post your ads in Easy Ads for free. You can include your postal code, so that the prospective tenant can search for a room near their place of work.
This portal is also good for tenants to search for an available room near their workplace. By conducting the owner directly, you save on the fee payable to the agent. Try it.
This portal is also good for tenants to search for an available room near their workplace. By conducting the owner directly, you save on the fee payable to the agent. Try it.
Tuition
Are you interested to provide tuition near your home? Post your particulars in Easy Ads for free. Some parents may search for you and contact you.
Cartoons by Wing Lee Cheong
Wing Lee Cheong draws cartoons about the political situation in Singapore. You can see his cartoons in
http://www.sg-quitters.blogspot.com/ Hope you enjoy them.
http://www.sg-quitters.blogspot.com/ Hope you enjoy them.
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Selecting the right insurance
You have to select the right insurance company and the right policy. You can also consider "self insurance" which may be more suitable under some situations. See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
Top 10 jobs in the US
High price of property
Message from Kevin Lim, Correspondent of Reuters:
Hi folks,
I’m basically looking to speak to people who are looking to buy property (either HDB or private) but who find prices too high or are worried about a sharp correction in the market.
Need people who are willing to be named.
Kevin Lim
Correspondent
Reuters News
kevin.lim@thomsonreuters.com
Hi folks,
I’m basically looking to speak to people who are looking to buy property (either HDB or private) but who find prices too high or are worried about a sharp correction in the market.
Need people who are willing to be named.
Kevin Lim
Correspondent
Reuters News
kevin.lim@thomsonreuters.com
Elderly person - not insured
Hi Mr Tan,
My mother is a housewife and she is 61 year old. She has no contribution to her cpf thus she does not have any medishield or medisave. Two years ago I try to get a medical insurance from NTUC for her but was rejected due to her high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythm. I having problems to get a suitable medical insurance for her as it either too expensive or they would normally reject for her case.
MY REPLY
You can try to apply for basic Medishield with CPF and see if she can be accepted. If not, it is all right. I know of many elderly people who are not insured. If they are hospitalised, go to a subsidised ward (B2 or Cclass) as the bill is kept affordable.
Read this FAQ
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=298
My mother is a housewife and she is 61 year old. She has no contribution to her cpf thus she does not have any medishield or medisave. Two years ago I try to get a medical insurance from NTUC for her but was rejected due to her high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythm. I having problems to get a suitable medical insurance for her as it either too expensive or they would normally reject for her case.
MY REPLY
You can try to apply for basic Medishield with CPF and see if she can be accepted. If not, it is all right. I know of many elderly people who are not insured. If they are hospitalised, go to a subsidised ward (B2 or Cclass) as the bill is kept affordable.
Read this FAQ
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=298
SGEP editorial - digital warfare
The SGEP published a new Editorial captioned "The Digital Warfare in Electoral Battle", in respond to TODAY's commentary "“Deep fissures behind Opposition bravado” [7 Mar 2011- Local Media] by Mr. Eugene Tan, an SMU Assistant Professor of Law. Link : http://www.easyapps.sg/SGEP/
There was also an article in the Kent Ridge Common, "Enough of political opinions from Eugene Tan?". [8 Mar 2011 - Blogs].
We note TODAY Forum also carried a letter "Three-way fights good for voters" [9 Mar 2011 - Letters] by Aloysius Foo today.
See www.easyapps.sg/sgep
There was also an article in the Kent Ridge Common, "Enough of political opinions from Eugene Tan?". [8 Mar 2011 - Blogs].
We note TODAY Forum also carried a letter "Three-way fights good for voters" [9 Mar 2011 - Letters] by Aloysius Foo today.
See www.easyapps.sg/sgep
New books at the book stores
Get Value From Your Life Insurance will be out at the following places on 14 Mar:
- 7-Eleven convenience stores
- Popular bookstores
- Harris Bookstores
- Prologue
- Kinokuniya
- MPH
- Page One
- Major newsstands
Guide To Financial Planning (Chinese) will be ready after 14 Mar at the following places:
- Popular bookstores
- Harris bookstores
- Prologue
- Page One
- Kinokuniya Ngee Ann City outlet
- MPH bookstores
- Major newsstands
- 7-Eleven convenience stores
- Popular bookstores
- Harris Bookstores
- Prologue
- Kinokuniya
- MPH
- Page One
- Major newsstands
Guide To Financial Planning (Chinese) will be ready after 14 Mar at the following places:
- Popular bookstores
- Harris bookstores
- Prologue
- Page One
- Kinokuniya Ngee Ann City outlet
- MPH bookstores
- Major newsstands
Spams and fraud in e-mail
E-mail is free - and because it is free, it has been abused in the following ways:
- Spam emails on advertising products
- Fraud, e.g. MLM, ponzi scheme or taking money and disappear
- Declare these activities to be illegal and take action against the spam or frauds. Although it is difficult to enforce, at least it will deter some people.
- Require the sender of each e-mail to donate (say) 2 cents to a charity. The paid mail will be marked and recipients can opt to receive only paid mail, i.e. reject free mail. This requires the email community to adopt a standard for paid mail.
- Continue the current situation and ignore the spam.
Which approach do your prefer? Give your vote in this survey.
SAF insurance pays out the full sum insured on death
Hello Sir,
I have been searching internet for an answer, but no vail. Therefore, I would like to see your advice. I am considering SAF Group Term insurance. Is there is ceiling/cap payout per year?
I heard group insurance has a maximum payout per year on group level (since this is group insurance), so if the pool of $$$ is left (example) 300K for the remaining of this year, and if I were to claim 1million, the maximum payout is only 300K (since the rest of the money in the pool have been compensated to other beneficiaries). Is the above context correct?
REPLY
SAF allows you to buy insurance for up to $600,000. See http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=116
You are covered for the amount that you are insured for, and it is not subject to any "pooling" or "cap".
This statement about the cap could have been told by a dishonest insurance agent who has a vested interested to get the consumer to buy a life insurance policy - instead of the SAF group insurance.
I have been searching internet for an answer, but no vail. Therefore, I would like to see your advice. I am considering SAF Group Term insurance. Is there is ceiling/cap payout per year?
I heard group insurance has a maximum payout per year on group level (since this is group insurance), so if the pool of $$$ is left (example) 300K for the remaining of this year, and if I were to claim 1million, the maximum payout is only 300K (since the rest of the money in the pool have been compensated to other beneficiaries). Is the above context correct?
REPLY
SAF allows you to buy insurance for up to $600,000. See http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=116
You are covered for the amount that you are insured for, and it is not subject to any "pooling" or "cap".
This statement about the cap could have been told by a dishonest insurance agent who has a vested interested to get the consumer to buy a life insurance policy - instead of the SAF group insurance.
Profile of a Ponzi or MLM scheme?
I receive this email. It fits into the profile of a ponzi or a MLM scheme. I delete all of them.
Email
Hi, my name is Brad Flowers I have a franchise that is on the cutting edge of digital marketing services.
I am looking for brokers who would like to earn $2000 on the first 7 sales they make and $3000 on each additional sale.
For more information go to www.extremefranchise.com/brad.
E-mail extrememarketing7@gmail.com
Phone 970-213-1741
P.S. If you are not broker contact me if you have an interest.
Hi, my name is Brad Flowers I have a franchise that is on the cutting edge of digital marketing services.
I am looking for brokers who would like to earn $2000 on the first 7 sales they make and $3000 on each additional sale.
For more information go to www.extremefranchise.com/brad.
E-mail extrememarketing7@gmail.com
Phone 970-213-1741
P.S. If you are not broker contact me if you have an interest.
Scams are getting more personal
I receive scams regularly, They are getting to be more personal. I believe that this fit into the profile of a scam. This is a nuisance as it is now quite difficult to distinguish between the genuine inquiry and the scams.
Email
I am Mr. Vincent Cheng Chairman of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited. I have a sensitive, confidential brief from Hong Kong and I am asking for your partnership in re- profiling funds.
What I require from you is your honest co-operation and all confirmable documents to back up this fund shall be made available to you prior to your acceptance and as soon as I receive your return mail I will let you know what is required of you.
Vincent Cheng.
Email.:chengvincent81@yahoo.com.hk
I am Mr. Vincent Cheng Chairman of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited. I have a sensitive, confidential brief from Hong Kong and I am asking for your partnership in re- profiling funds.
What I require from you is your honest co-operation and all confirmable documents to back up this fund shall be made available to you prior to your acceptance and as soon as I receive your return mail I will let you know what is required of you.
Vincent Cheng.
Email.:chengvincent81@yahoo.com.hk
Give firm enlistment date
Ministry of Defence urged to give firm enlistment date in advance to Singaporeans who are required to serve National Service.
Read SGEP-Latest or click here.
Edited letter published in St Times Online Forum.
Read SGEP-Latest or click here.
Edited letter published in St Times Online Forum.
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
No claim discount for motor insurance
Should you make a claim for a minor accident and lose the no-claim discount on your motor car? See Ask Mr. Tan or click here.
Remove uncertain component of means testing in MediShield use
Printed in Straits Times Forum Page, 8 March 2011
MANY elderly people opt to be insured under basic MediShield to cover their medical expenses at an affordable premium ('Stumped by low MediShield payout' by Ms Goh Poh Kheng; yesterday). They accept treatment in a subsidised ward and must pay the deductible and co-insurance of 20 per cent from their Medisave accounts.
They should not be subject to the further uncertainty caused by the pro-ration of the bill due to means testing.
The Ministry of Health should allow patients to pay a slightly higher premium to be excluded from this pro-ration formula. This will allow for greater transparency and give them more certainty on the coverage under basic MediShield.
Many people are now advised to transfer to a private Shield plan to obtain higher coverage. However, the premium for such a plan can be much costlier and the co-payments, in the event of a claim, can also be higher.
This will be outside the financial means of many elderly patients, who need to conserve their Medisave for their old-age needs. Private Shield plans should be only for those who are well-off.
I hope the ministry will consider making basic MediShield the default plan for the large number of seniors who cannot afford to use their Medisave for higher insurance premiums and co-payments.
Tan Kin Lian
MANY elderly people opt to be insured under basic MediShield to cover their medical expenses at an affordable premium ('Stumped by low MediShield payout' by Ms Goh Poh Kheng; yesterday). They accept treatment in a subsidised ward and must pay the deductible and co-insurance of 20 per cent from their Medisave accounts.
They should not be subject to the further uncertainty caused by the pro-ration of the bill due to means testing.
The Ministry of Health should allow patients to pay a slightly higher premium to be excluded from this pro-ration formula. This will allow for greater transparency and give them more certainty on the coverage under basic MediShield.
Many people are now advised to transfer to a private Shield plan to obtain higher coverage. However, the premium for such a plan can be much costlier and the co-payments, in the event of a claim, can also be higher.
This will be outside the financial means of many elderly patients, who need to conserve their Medisave for their old-age needs. Private Shield plans should be only for those who are well-off.
I hope the ministry will consider making basic MediShield the default plan for the large number of seniors who cannot afford to use their Medisave for higher insurance premiums and co-payments.
Tan Kin Lian
TKL Blog posting to Facebook
I need help from an expert in Facebook. In my blog, I add a "Like" feature. A user who click on the the "Like" button will have an automatic posting into his or her Facebook with the information shown on here. At present, the posting shows the message from my blog introduction, i.e. "I retired from NTUC Income .....". How do I change this posting to show the actual content of the blog, rather than the introduction? Send your answer to kinlian@gmail.com or post here in this comment..
Monday, March 07, 2011
Letters to SGEP
SGEP receives a few letters from the public. You can view some of these letters here (Letters to SGEP).
SGEP also invites readers to send your letters and views to sgeportal@gmail.com. We hope that more citizens will use this new channel to give your views and suggestions on how to improve the political and social environment in Singapore.
.
SGEP also invites readers to send your letters and views to sgeportal@gmail.com. We hope that more citizens will use this new channel to give your views and suggestions on how to improve the political and social environment in Singapore.
.
Letter to SGEP - vote against the PAP
There is a letter published in the SGEP that citizens do not have to vote for the opposition candidates, but they should vote against the PAP for their bad policies. Read SGEP or click here.
Low payout on Medishield plan
There is a letter in the Straits Times on the low payout on Medishield plan. This appears to be caused by the pro-ration formula that is applied due to means testing.
I have written a letter to the St Times to urge the Minister for Health to review basic Medishield to remove the proration formula, and if necessary to raise the premium slightly for this situation. I urge the elderly people to stay on basic Medishield and avoid going to private Shield, as the premium and co-payment will be much higher under Private Shield.
Wait for my letter to be published. Meanwhile, you can read my FAQs on "Shield" or "Medishield" in Ask Mr. Tan
Tan Kin Lian
I have written a letter to the St Times to urge the Minister for Health to review basic Medishield to remove the proration formula, and if necessary to raise the premium slightly for this situation. I urge the elderly people to stay on basic Medishield and avoid going to private Shield, as the premium and co-payment will be much higher under Private Shield.
Wait for my letter to be published. Meanwhile, you can read my FAQs on "Shield" or "Medishield" in Ask Mr. Tan
Tan Kin Lian
Fixed enlistment date
Several letters were published in the St Times about the delay faced by private school students in getting enlisted into National Service. This delay adds to the time before they can enter the workforce or continue their university education.
I have written a letter to the Straits Times to urge the Ministry of Defence to give a fixed enlistment date for call up for National Service, several months in advance. This will allow the male citizens to plan their personal schedule around a known enlistment date and minimize the disruption to their personal lives.
If the Ministry finds it difficult to plan the training of the enlisted men, they can find interim arrangements, but it should not be at the expense of the citizens.
Tan Kin Lian
I have written a letter to the Straits Times to urge the Ministry of Defence to give a fixed enlistment date for call up for National Service, several months in advance. This will allow the male citizens to plan their personal schedule around a known enlistment date and minimize the disruption to their personal lives.
If the Ministry finds it difficult to plan the training of the enlisted men, they can find interim arrangements, but it should not be at the expense of the citizens.
Tan Kin Lian
Sunday, March 06, 2011
Shares in CDP
Hi Mr Tan,
I have just started investing in stocks. I read that our shares and other form of securities are held under the custody of CDP. I am curious about how safe are our shares in the custody of CDP. I read from the CDP website that they are not liable for any loss, destruction or mis-delivery of any Securities, any fraud or forgery in connection with the Depositor’s signature, instructions or requests etc.
Does this means that they are not responsible should any fraud, forgery or other forms of damages that happened? If that's the case how do retail investor prevent this from happening and does it help to have a securities account operated with a thumb print? I feel that other investors would be interested to have some knowledge on this issue as well. I sincerely hope that Mr tan you can shed some lights on this issue.
REPLY
I have kept all my shares in CDp for 20 years and have no worry about this matter. I have also not heard of any problem with the security of the shares of other investors. Most transfers are now done electronically and are backed by an actual sale made through a broker.
I have just started investing in stocks. I read that our shares and other form of securities are held under the custody of CDP. I am curious about how safe are our shares in the custody of CDP. I read from the CDP website that they are not liable for any loss, destruction or mis-delivery of any Securities, any fraud or forgery in connection with the Depositor’s signature, instructions or requests etc.
Does this means that they are not responsible should any fraud, forgery or other forms of damages that happened? If that's the case how do retail investor prevent this from happening and does it help to have a securities account operated with a thumb print? I feel that other investors would be interested to have some knowledge on this issue as well. I sincerely hope that Mr tan you can shed some lights on this issue.
REPLY
I have kept all my shares in CDp for 20 years and have no worry about this matter. I have also not heard of any problem with the security of the shares of other investors. Most transfers are now done electronically and are backed by an actual sale made through a broker.
Greed and dishonesty
In the past, banks built their reputation by winning the trust of their customers. In recent years, the banks were willing to betray the trust in their pursuit of greed and profit. Singapore should follow the example of America and Hong Kong in holding the banks to be accountable for their greed and dishonesty.
Read TKL Website - Latest or click here.
Read TKL Website - Latest or click here.
Opera Mini Browser
I had trouble with the default browser that came with my Android mobile phone. It could not download the large images and PDF documents.
I installed the Opera Mini browser to replace the default browser. The Opera Mini worked well. It could download the images and PDFs. It had many other useful functions as well. For those with Android mobile phones, I recommend that you try the Opera Mini browser. You will find the browsing experience to be good.
Tan Kin Lian
I installed the Opera Mini browser to replace the default browser. The Opera Mini worked well. It could download the images and PDFs. It had many other useful functions as well. For those with Android mobile phones, I recommend that you try the Opera Mini browser. You will find the browsing experience to be good.
Tan Kin Lian
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