Quantum algorithm explained

quantum algorithm explained

The Shortest Answer: The Maze Analogy

Imagine you are blindfolded in a maze and you need to find the exit.

· A Classical Computer is like sending one person into the maze. They try one path, hit a dead end, backtrack, and try another. It might take a very long time, but they will eventually find the way out.

· A Quantum Computer is like being able to create a million ghost copies of yourself. You send one ghost down every single path of the maze at the same time. The ghosts that hit dead ends instantly vanish. The one ghost that finds the exit remains, and you instantly know the correct path.

A quantum algorithm is the set of instructions you give to those ghosts: which paths to explore, how to cancel out the wrong answers, and how to reveal the right one.

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The Slightly Longer, More Accurate Explanation

To understand how the "ghost copies" work, you need two simple (but weird) ideas:

1. Superposition: The "Maybe-State"

Think of a classic computer bit as a coin that is permanently heads (1) or tails (0). A quantum bit (qubit) is like a coin spinning in the air. It's not heads or tails; it's in a fuzzy state of maybe-heads and maybe-tails at the same time. Only when you catch it (measure it) does it "collapse" to a definite heads or tails.

This allows a quantum computer to explore many possibilities simultaneously.

2. Interference: The "Canceling Out"

This is the magic trick. You can't just have all the answers at once; you get a jumbled mess. A quantum algorithm is designed to use interference—like sound waves—to make the wrong answers cancel each other out (like noise) and the right answers amplify each other (like a clear note getting louder).

So, the algorithm doesn't just try all paths. It orchestrates the possibilities so the incorrect ones destroy themselves and the correct one rings loud and clear when you finally look.

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A Real-World Example: The "Phone Book Search"

Imagine you have a giant phone book and a specific phone number. Your task is to find whose name it belongs to.

· Classical Algorithm: You start on page 1 and check every single entry, one by one. For a phone book with 10 million names, you might need to check 10 million entries. This is slow.

· Quantum Algorithm (Grover's Algorithm): Thanks to superposition, the computer can effectively check all 10 million entries at the same time. But that's not enough. It then uses interference to cancel out all the wrong names and amplify the correct one. The amazing part? It can find the correct name by only "looking" about 3,000 times instead of 10 million. It's not just faster; it's a fundamentally more efficient way of solving the problem.

Summary in Simple Terms:

A quantum algorithm is a special recipe that uses the weird rules of quantum physics (superposition and interference) to:

1. Explore a huge number of possible answers all at once.

2. Cancel out the wrong answers so they disappear.

3. Leave behind the one correct answer so we can see it.

It's not just a "faster computer." It's a different kind of thinking machine that solves specific, complex problems in a way that's impossible for any standard computer.

Quantum evolutionary algorithms for behaviour change [1154]

Quantum evolutionary algorithms for behavioral change can model how behavioral norms and practices evolve in populations over time through processes of variation, selection, and inheritance. These algorithms can capture how successful behaviors spread while unsuccessful behaviors are eliminated .[1154]

Potential Source 1: Reflections on Behavior Analysis and Evolutionary Biology: A Selective Review of Evolution Since Darwin—The First 150 Years. Edited by M. A. Bell, D. J. Futuyama, W. F. Eanes, & J. S. Levinton. URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3292234/

Relevant phrase: "A selection process consists of three interdependent phases—variation, selection, and retention."

Potential Source 2: Understanding Natural Selection: Essential Concepts and Common Misconceptions. URL: https://evolution-outreach.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1007/s12052-009-0128-1

Relevant phrase: "Variation among individuals is a fundamental requirement for evolutionary change."

Confirmed Source for 'variation, selection, and inheritance': Reflections on Behavior Analysis and Evolutionary Biology: A Selective Review of Evolution Since Darwin—The First 150 Years. Edited by M. A. Bell, D. J. Futuyama, W. F. Eanes, & J. S. Levinton. URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3292234/

This article explicitly defines and discusses the three phases of a selection process: variation, selection, and retention (inheritance). It states: 'A selection process consists of three interdependent phases—variation, selection, and retention. _Variation_ provides the raw material upon which selection operates... _Selection_ leads, potentially, to complexity... _Retention_ is the third phase of a selection process. Retention permits selected variants to persist long enough for them to contribute to the variation upon which future selections act.' This directly supports the latter part of the user's paragraph regarding how successful behaviors spread and unsuccessful ones are eliminated through these processes.

Quantum algorithms, Quantum reinforcement learning and Quantum game theory for behaviour change [1151, 1152, 1153]

Paragraphs Analyzed

Paragraph 1 [1151]

"The application of quantum algorithms to behavioral change modeling enables the analysis of much larger and more complex behavioral systems than is possible with classical methods. Quantum algorithms can explore multiple behavioral change scenarios simultaneously, potentially identifying optimal intervention strategies that would be missed by classical approaches.

Paragraph 1: The application of quantum algorithms to behavioral change modeling...•Source: "A Quantum Computing Approach to Human Behavior Prediction"•Authors: Alvaro Huerga, Unai Aguilera, Aitor Almeida, Ana Belen Lago•Publication: IEEE Xplore (2022 7th International Conference on Intelligent Environments)•URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9854257/

-----------------------------------------------

"Paragraph 2 [1152]

"Quantum reinforcement learning for behavioral change can model how individuals learn new behaviors through trial and error while being influenced by social feedback and environmental rewards. These models can capture the complex feedback loops between individual learning and social influences.

Paragraph 2: Quantum reinforcement learning for behavioral change can model how individuals learn new behaviors...•Source: "Quantum reinforcement learning during human decision-making"•Authors: Ji-An Li, Daoyi Dong, Zhengde Wei, Ying Liu, Yu Pan, Franco Nori, Xiaochu Zhang•Publication: Nature Human Behaviour (Published: 20 January 2020)•URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-019-0804-2

-----------------------------------------------

"Paragraph 3 [1153]

"Quantum game theory for behavioral change can model how individual behavioral decisions are affected by the expected behaviors of others in the network. These models can capture strategic aspects of behavioral change where individuals consider the likely responses of others when making their own behavioral choices."

Paragraph 3: Quantum game theory for behavioral change can model how individual behavioral decisions are affected by the expected behaviors of others in the network.•Source: "A quantum game decision-making analysis of parking sharing behavior considering fairness preferences"•Authors: Qingqi, Guomei Xiao•Publication: ScienceDirect (Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives, Volume 21, September 2024)•URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590198224001969

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Search Methods Employed

1.Exact Quote Searches: Searched for complete sentences and phrases using quotation marks

2.Keyword Searches: Used combinations of relevant terms like "quantum algorithms behavioral change", "quantum reinforcement learning behavioral change", "quantum game theory behavioral change"

3.Academic Database Searches: Searched through Google Scholar and academic publications

4.Web Searches: Comprehensive web searches across multiple sources5.Related Paper Analysis: Examined papers on quantum computing in behavioral science, quantum reinforcement learning, and quantum game theory

Related Sources Found

While the exact paragraphs were not found, several related academic works were identified:

Quantum Reinforcement Learning•

"Quantum reinforcement learning during human decision-making" (Nature Human Behaviour, 2020) by Li et al.

•Focuses on quantum reinforcement learning in human decision-making contexts•Does not contain the specific text about behavioral change modeling

Quantum Computing in Behavioral Science•

"A Quantum Computing Approach to Human Behavior Prediction" (IEEE, 2022) by Huerga et al.•Discusses quantum algorithms for human behavior prediction•Uses different terminology and approach than the provided paragraphs

Quantum Game Theory

•Multiple papers on quantum game theory applications•None specifically focused on behavioral change modeling as described in the paragraphs

Quantum Behavioral Modeling Sources Research [1148,1149,1150]

Quantum superposition in behavioral modeling allows individuals to be represented as existing in multiple behavioral states simultaneously, with different probabilities for different behaviors. This representation captures the uncertainty and gradual nature of behavioral change processes more accurately than classical binary models .[1148]

Source 1: Nature Scientific Reports (2022)Title: "A quantum-like cognitive approach to modeling human biased selection behavior"

Authors: Aghdas Meghdadi, M. R. Akbarzadeh-T, Kurosh Javidan

Journal: Scientific Reports, volume 12, Article number: 22545 (2022)

URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-13757-2

Published: 29 December 2022

Key Findings:•Introduces a cognitive quantum-like approach for modeling human biases by simulating society as a quantum system•Uses Quantum-like Bayesian network (QBN) structure•Proposes that quantum probability can model uncertainty and complex decision-making better than classical models•States that "Entangled QBN structure is particularly suitable for modeling bias behavior due to changing the state of systems with each observation"•Models biases caused by emotions and past experiences through "social entanglement concept motivated by entanglement in quantum physics"

Relevance to User's Paragraph 1:

This paper appears to be a potential source for concepts about quantum superposition representing multiple behavioral states simultaneously with different probabilities, though the exact wording from the user's paragraph is not found yet.

---------------------------------------------

2. Quantum entanglement in behavioral modeling can capture how the behavioral states of different individuals become correlated through social interactions, creating complex dependencies that affect the spread of behavioral change through networks .[1149]

Source 2: IEEE Transactions on Cybernetics (2022)Title: "A Quantum-Like Model for Predicting Human Decisions in the Entangled Social Systems"

Authors: Aghdas Meghdadi, Mohammad-R. Akbarzadeh-T., Kurosh Javidan

Journal: IEEE Transactions on Cybernetics, Volume 52, Issue 7, July 2022

Pages: 5778-5788

Published: 19 January 2022

URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9686611/

PubMed ID: 35044924

Key Findings:•Introduces the concept of entanglement from quantum information theory to Bayesian networks (BNs)•Creates an "entangled quantum-like BN (QBN), in which each human is a part of the entire society"•States that "society's effect on the dynamic evolution of the decision-making process... is modeled by entanglement measures"•Proposes a "predictive entangled QBN (PEQBN)" that models how behavioral states become correlated through social interactions•Uses quantum-like witness and concurrence entanglement measure to capture social dependencies

Relevance to User's Paragraph 2:

This paper directly addresses quantum entanglement in behavioral modeling and how behavioral states of different individuals become correlated through social interactions, creating complex dependencies in networks.

---------------------------------------------

3. Quantum interference effects in behavioral modeling can represent how different social influences can reinforce or cancel each other out, creating complex patterns of behavioral change that depend on the timing and combination of different influences .[1150]

Source 3: arXiv/Journal of Mathematical Psychology (2007/2009)Title: "The importance of probability interference in social science: rationale and experiment"

Authors: Andrei Khrennikov, Emmanuel Haven

Journal: Journal of Mathematical Psychology, Volume 53, Pages 378-388 (2009)

arXiv: arXiv:0709.2802 [physics.gen-ph]

Submitted: 18 Sep 2007

URL: https://arxiv.org/abs/0709.2802

Key Findings:•States that "Probability interference is a fundamental characteristic of quantum mechanics"•Attempts to show "where this fundamental trait of quantum physics can be found back in a social science environment"•Proposes that interference effects can be found in many macroscopic areas including social behavior•Sets up experimental tests to demonstrate interference effects in social contexts

Relevance to User's Paragraph 3:

This paper directly addresses quantum interference effects in social science contexts and how different influences can create complex patterns, which aligns with the concept of social influences reinforcing or canceling each other out.

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Additional Foundational Sources

Source 4: Trends in Cognitive Sciences (2015)Title: "Quantum cognition: a new theoretical approach to psychology"

Authors: Peter D. Bruza, Zheng Wang, Jerome R. Busemeyer

Journal: Trends in Cognitive Sciences, Volume 19, Issue 7, 2015

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1364661315000996

Citations: 346

Key Findings:•Compares classical versus quantum probabilistic models for human cognition•Addresses "cognitive phenomena that have proven recalcitrant to modeling by means of classical probability theory"•Highlights advantages of quantum models in addressing uncertainty and decision-making under conflict

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Source 5: Springer Quantum Interaction (2009)Title: "Classical logical versus quantum conceptual thought: Examples in economics, decision theory and concept theory"

Authors: Diederik Aerts, Bart D'Hooghe

Journal: International Symposium on Quantum Interaction, 2009

URL: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-00834-4_12

Citations: 90

Key Findings:•Explores quantum conceptual thought and its deviations from classical logical thought•Provides examples in economics, decision theory, and concept theories•Demonstrates how quantum models can capture non-classical reasoning patterns

--------------------------------------

Source 6: Foundations of Science (2021)Title: "Modeling human decision-making: An overview of the Brussels quantum approach"

Authors: Diederik Aerts, Massimiliano Sassoli de Bianchi, Sandro Sozzo, Tomas Veloz

Journal: Foundations of Science, 2021

URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10699-018-9559-x

Citations: 28Key Findings:•Presents fundamentals of quantum theoretical approach to cognitive phenomena•Addresses cognitive phenomena that "resisted modeling by means of classical" approaches•Develops comprehensive framework for quantum decision-making models

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page 221

page numbers and table of contents

This book is the product of a large-scale, AI-assisted collaborative research project. To align with its core mission of promoting unfettered access to knowledge for sustainability, this volume has been intentionally published as an open-access resource. As such, traditional copyright restrictions will not be pursued.

To facilitate its use as a dynamic digital resource, the complete list of 2,060 references is too bulky and won't be presented as I was using the Manus Ai ( 50 qubits quantum computing and Ai) to compile my book.

Consequently, the print edition is presented as a continuous narrative without pagination or a table of contents. This design choice reflects its purpose as a cohesive work to be read, understand and explored, rather than a traditional academic text to be cited by page number.

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What if the real recycling problem is in our heads?

We can do more if carrots and sticks not only abound, but make sustainable choices easier and more appealing.

By Carolin Barr

For years, the refrain has always been that recycling rates in Singapore are dismal, and nearly half of waste generated is incinerated instead. Singapore's overall recycling rate stood at 52 per cent in 2021, while the domestic recycling rate was just 13 per cent, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA).

We know that more needs to be done. However, less is said about why Singaporeans are not recycling more. As a sustainability advocate, educator and founder of Susgain, a social enterprise, I hear about these issues from industry professionals, community leaders and residents every week.

Most people know what most recyclable items are, where the recycling bins are and that recycling generally helps the environment. Yet recycling rates remain abysmally low.

Can we borrow from behavioral science?

Behavioural science is the study of how humans make decisions and take actions. It reveals the gap between what people know and what they actually do - a phenomenon familiar to those of us frustrated by the low recycling rates.

For instance, most people are aware that smoking is bad for them, but many still smoke. Similarly, most Singaporeans know that recycling is important, but many still fail to do it regularly.

Behavioral scientists argue that awareness alone is often not enough. The difficulty of a desired behaviour (for example, sorting recyclables), limited motivation, small daily barriers, and lack of social norms can stop people from taking the right action.

Meaningful incentives are important

Environmental messaging often focuses on moral appeals and informational campaigns, assuming people will act rationally because it's the right thing to do. However, research shows that simply telling people what is good and bad for the environment is rarely enough to change behaviour.

To nudge people towards positive habits, incentives and rewards are key. The NEA's Recycle N Save initiative, which places bottle- and can-collecting reverse vending machines across Singapore, is one such effort. Users are rewarded for recycling through retail e-vouchers and charitable donations.

Similarly, Susgain's mobile app rewards users for sustainable choices and tracks their impact. By making recycling more engaging and rewarding, it is possible to close the gap between knowledge and action.

Awareness vs action

NEA's public surveys indicate nearly all Singaporeans know what items are recyclable. Yet, many report that they do not recycle regularly. Reasons include being busy or forgetting, concerns about contamination, and not being sure if an item is recyclable.

Behavioural experts suggest making the desired behaviour easier. For example, redesigning bins so recyclables do not have to be cleaned meticulously, or simplifying recycling instructions, could reduce barriers.

Do sticks have a place too?

While incentives work, consequences also matter. Some countries have penalties for not recycling correctly. In Singapore, wrong disposal can mean fines, but enforcement is rare. Behavioural research suggests that targeted penalties, combined with clear instructions, can be effective.

By using both carrots (rewards) and sticks (penalties) thoughtfully, Singapore could see greater action on recycling.

The way forward

Recycling is more about human behaviour than engineering. Carrots and sticks help, but sustainable choices need to be easier and more appealing.

Rather than viewing recycling as a technical problem, let's recognize it as a behavioral challenge. By borrowing lessons from behavioral science, offering incentives, removing obstacles, and amplifying social norms, Singapore can build a more sustainable future.

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Japan storms back into the chip wars

The country used to be a semiconductor powerhouse. Can it be one again?

Mr. Atsushi Koike likes to go big. As chief executive of Rapidus, a newly launched Japanese semiconductor foundry, his company has made its ambition clear: Japan must catch up to the leading chipmakers.

The successful firms (in Taiwan, South Korea and America) have become national champions that underpin the military, industrial and economic vitality of their countries. Mr. Koike wants to do the same for Japan, in the boldest tradition of Japan Inc. His government pledged $3.3 billion (S$4.5 billion) to help support Rapidus and the new foundry it is building in Hokkaido.

As share of gross domestic product, that amount is barely a rounding error, but shows how heroic interventionist ambitions are in semiconductors. Analysts through the Chip Act, Japan hopes to boost chip manufacturing to one-third of global output by 2030. That is a tall order. Japan’s advance comes after the country’s collapse in the semiconductor business and then stagnation –– while rivals such as Taiwan’s TSMC and South Korea’s Samsung leapfrogged ahead.

Japanese dominance in semiconductors once looked unassailable. In 1986 Japanese firms produced two-thirds of chips worldwide, flooding the market with best-in-class quality at rock-bottom prices. Today Japan accounts for less than 10 per cent of the world’s chips.

The Japanese government came to the costly realisation that it needs to control all parts of the chipmaking chain. Supply chain disruptions during the pandemic, and American efforts to squeeze China out of advanced chipmaking, forced Japanese officials to rethink national strategy. After America imposed sanctions on China, Japanese firms are now reshaping the supply chain, making Japan’s manufacturing base self-sufficient.

The trade friction with America in the late 1980s began a decline in Japanese output. America accused Japan of flooding the global market and harming its own industry. After years of disputes, subsidies and restrictions, Japanese pride was hurt, and the once-dominant manufacturing base shrank.

Japan’s new chip strategy has two main pillars. The first is to secure supplies of rare materials and skilled labour, and firewall advanced manufacturing by preventing others (that is, China) from weaponising their control over certain inputs.

The second pillar is autonomy, by facing competition head-on. The world today is run by two suppliers: countries that can supply advanced chips, and countries that cannot. Japanese officials have taken inspiration from America’s “CHIPS” Act, but with more state-support policy.

As with other manufacturing winners, the source of the wins is the same: the country with the best engineers will win the hearts and minds of buyers. The challenge: The LDP hopes to retain/restore Japanese engineering prowess so Japan takes leading position.

Japan’s solutions bring more outsourcing of technology (like Rapidus’ partnership with IBM) and support from the government for building advanced foundries. The government has also lured big chip firms like TSMC to set up shops in Kyushu; the first fab there produces chips of 28nm to 12nm, to let Japan re-enter the most advanced segment of semiconductors to be produced in Japan on-site. But, so far, even Rapidus had to look abroad for the talent required to run such advanced facilities—hiring experts from IBM, and getting buy-in from America’s global enterprises.

Mission, an American memory chipmaker, has also invested heavily in Japan. Japanese foundries now make chips for automobiles, AI, mobile phones and the cloud, seeking subsidies and government grants.

Meanwhile, Samsung in South Korea is looking for new sources and building new facilities. TSMC in Taiwan and Samsung in South Korea dominate ultra-fine fabs, and both have new projects under way in Japan. Both are building new mega-projects to supply chips to automobile companies, makers of batteries, and consumer electronics.

Analysts caution that Japan will have to catch up with global pace-setters. Even with gains from new investments, scaling high-end chips for cutting-edge devices, including AI, may take years.

Overall, the policy shift is clear––Japan eyes national security and economic vitality through advanced manufacturing. Whether it can keep up with Taiwan and South Korea will depend on how quickly Japan can leverage partnerships with foreign (mainly American) engineers, regain its lost expertise, and attract the next generation of engineers to its industry.

Japan’s new strategy is focused on securing supply chains, building foundries for leading and lagging-edge chips (especially for automotive and industrial equipment), and investing in engineering skills. This ambitious plan will require government support, foreign partnerships, and willingness to adapt to smaller lots of specialised chips, rather than just mass-market silicon for phones and computers.

The question is, will Mr. Koike and Rapidus lead this charge? Japan needs to focus on both the supply of rare materials, and its engineering talent, for it once again to reclaim its former status as a semiconductor powerhouse.

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As China marks 80 years since war with Japan, can time heal historical wounds?

Some ask if war film set during Nanjing massacre amounts to ‘hatred education’

Lim Min Zhang
China Correspondent
and Walter Sim
Japan Correspondent

BEIJING/TOKYO — Since it hit the big screen this summer, the Chinese war film Dead To Rights has been playing to packed cinemas, grossing more than 315 million yuan (S$60.3 million).

Set against the backdrop of the 1937 Nanjing massacre, the film tells the story of how a local militia fought Japanese invaders. Film critic Walter Shi felt the depiction of Chinese suffering was so realistic, he had trouble sleeping for days after watching it.

“Hatred education” is how some on social media have described the film’s impact on young people, who already grow up learning about Japanese wartime aggression in school.

More films and other forms of commemoration have been rolled out this year as China marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Beijing says remembrance and education are necessary to keep alive memories of invasion and suffering, so as to guard against a repeat.

But for some, such commemorations have come to serve another purpose— stoking nationalist sentiment and, at times, anti-Japanese feelings that could hinder reconciliation.

Such concerns are not only common in Japan, which has widespread unease over what some call the teaching of “selective history” in China about wartime aggression.

Concerns have also surfaced in China, including among historians and educators, who warn about risks of fueling hatred, and renewed diplomatic tensions with Japan, especially as films, drama series, commemorative exhibitions, and social media discussions over the war have multiplied.

On Aug 15, Japan marked the 80th anniversary of its surrender with ceremonies led by Emperor Naruhito, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and bereaved family members. In China, remembrance has centered on the so-called "Victory Day" observed by state media, with Deputy Communist Party Secretary Wang Huning appearing at the National Museum of China for related exhibitions.

“Commemorating the 80th anniversary is necessary and meaningful. What matters most is how we remember the history and avoid letting fresh wounds be inflicted,” said Professor Shi Yinhong from Renmin University.

He noted that historical wounds linger long after wars, especially those fought within living memory, but ultimately, “we need Japan to face up to its past.”

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Popular war film Dead To Rights has sparked concern that some school visits to its exhibitions foster hatred.
(Shows photo caption of children posed in front of the film poster.)

A wave of online videos mocking Japan’s imperial family has also sparked debate. In May, an animated short mocking Emperor Hirohito drew millions of views. Some argue such content deepens misunderstanding, but the debate continues.

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In contrast, Japan’s current administration emphasizes reconciliation. Prime Minister Kishida has repeatedly expressed “deep remorse and heartfelt apology,” but controversy over wartime remembrance remains— especially over textbooks and the narrative taught to younger generations.

Dr. Shun Kawashima, professor at the University of Tokyo, said reconciliation needs further dialogue. “It is crucial for both sides to continue conversations and look for mutual understanding... Otherwise, historical wounds will never heal.”

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NUS scientist aims to help vulnerable groups in Spore, region beat the heat

One of his research priorities is to find out how heat stress affects health, productivity

Cheryl Tan
cheryltan@sp.com.sg

Why do some groups of people feel the heat more acutely than others? And what can be done to help them adapt so they stay healthy and productive? These are questions that climate scientist Matthias Roth, deputy head of the geography department at the National University of Singapore (NUS), hopes to answer.

Professor Roth recently launched a five-year project to find out how environmental risks such as heat and air pollution affect vulnerable groups – the elderly, children, and outdoor workers – in Singapore and the region.

He wants to use the results to guide national and regional policy to help these groups adapt and continue to thrive even as the world gets warmer.

“The increase in temperatures due to climate change is already taking place, and we need to understand who is at risk and what the risks are,” said Prof Roth. “If these risks are not dealt with, it will have a significant impact on people’s livelihoods, health, and well-being.”

His project, which was awarded $9 million under Singapore’s National Research Foundation’s (NRF) Competitive Research Programme, brings together experts across institutions to tackle the issues.

The research has two main arms:

1. Finding out how heat and air pollution affect health and productivity.

2. Developing solutions that can help vulnerable groups adapt.

Research will include large-scale data collection and the development of new tools to predict how people will react to different stressors, and how best to help them.

For example, researchers will look at places such as schools, nursing homes, and construction sites, where people might be more at risk from heat or poor air quality.

“Our first research priority is to find out how heat stress affects health and productivity,” said Prof Roth.

“We want to develop mitigation and adaptation measures which may include the redesign of public spaces — such as parks and walkways — to help keep workers and vulnerable people cool and safe,” he said.

The team will also work with communities and policymakers to help them understand the risks and build resilience, so they can take action before the issues become critical.

Prof Roth said the project is not just about understanding the risks, but also about creating solutions. For instance, his team is looking at technologies such as cooling garments and the use of green spaces to reduce urban heat.

The project is in collaboration with the NUS Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions, and other institutions such as the Singapore University of Social Sciences and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research’s Institute of High Performance Computing.

“It’s important that researchers, policymakers, and communities work together to address these challenges,” Prof Roth said.

He hopes the research will result in new guidelines and policies to help vulnerable groups adapt to the changing climate, both in Singapore and other parts of South-east Asia.

With the increase of extreme weather events such as heatwaves and haze in recent years, the need to understand and address environmental risk is urgent, said Prof Roth.

The project will also help Singapore achieve its climate goals under the Singapore Green Plan 2030, he added.

“Ultimately, we need to ensure that Singapore remains liveable and resilient in the face of climate change,” he said.

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Employee claims over salary, wrong dismissal up amid more business woes

Amount recovered from employers in 2024 rises to $19 million from $14 million in 2023

THE BIG STORY
By Heng Hui Wen

The amount of salary arrears and compensation recovered for employees in 2024 hit $19 million, up from $14 million in 2023, in a trend that reflects rising disputes amid economic uncertainty. The latest data from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) also shows that the number of wrongful dismissal claims per 1,000 employees was at a five-year high.

Claims rise to five-year high
The number of claims filed at Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM), the central agency for employment claims, increased for the fifth consecutive year. Salary claims, wrongful dismissal claims, and retrenchment-related disputes were all up, the figures showed.

Total claims recovered for affected employees increased significantly, with salary claims hitting $19 million in 2024, a 36 percent rise year-on-year.

Wrongful dismissal claims rose to 0.29 per 1,000 employees in 2024, compared with 0.27 per 1,000 employees in 2023 and 0.23 in 2022.

For salary claims, the rate was 0.35 claims per 1,000 employees in 2024, up from 0.33 in 2023. The lowest rate in the last five years was 0.27 in 2020.

MOM attributed the rise to higher retrenchment and business closure rates, which have grown following global economic headwinds.

More disputes amid economic headwinds
The number of case filings at TADM has been climbing, reflecting broader business and employment challenges faced by companies and workers.

In 2024, TADM handled 11,000 salary and wrongful dismissal claims – up from 9,000 in 2023 – with almost 90 percent of claims resolved within six weeks. MOM said over 75 percent of claims were resolved through mediation, and the remainder referred to the Employment Claims Tribunal.

A TADM spokesperson said the main reasons for salary disputes stemmed from financial constraints and cash-flow problems faced by companies, especially SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) affected by slowdown in consumer demand and supply chain disruptions.

Retrenchment-related claims are also on the rise, with over 1,800 employees affected in 2024, a 16 percent jump compared with 2023.

Employers urged to follow fair process
MOM urged employers to ensure fair and responsible retrenchment processes, including providing adequate notice and compensation under employment laws.

A MOM spokesperson said: “Business challenges should not be an excuse for non-payment or unfair dismissal. Employees must be treated fairly and in accordance with Singapore’s employment standards.”

TADM said it will increase outreach and education efforts towards both employers and employees to build awareness of proper dispute resolution and employment standards.

Additional Data (from Ministry of Manpower, Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management):

Number of wrongful dismissal claims per 1,000 employees:
2020 – 0.23
2021 – 0.25
2022 – 0.23
2023 – 0.27
2024 – 0.29

Number of salary claims per 1,000 employees:
2020 – 0.27
2021 – 0.29
2022 – 0.30
2023 – 0.33
2024 – 0.35

The Dutch are quietly shifting towards a four-day work week

The Netherlands serves as a case study for the challenges and rewards of reduced hours in the workplace.

By Sarah O'Connor

On a recent evening in Amsterdam in August, the ships of the Sail Amsterdam festival were moored along the River IJ, draped with bunting, and crowded with Dutch people basking in the late summer sunshine. There was a festival atmosphere, and the crowds thinned only gradually in the evening as most had no hurry to be in bed early for work the next day.

They didn’t need to: In addition to their generous holidays, many Dutch workers already work fewer hours than most of their European counterparts. The full-time work week is officially 38 hours, but the average number of hours actually worked per week is just 29—one of the lowest in the developed world.

Some of them work four days a week by choice, even when they could work more. “We mix part-time and full-time,” said Peter, a project manager who works 32 hours a week and spends Fridays with his three children. His wife, a lawyer, works full-time but is able to leave the office at 5pm. “There’s a real appreciation here for having a work-life balance,” he said.

This ...... trend began in the 1980s, when the government wanted to encourage more women to join the workforce. Successive governments have offered tax incentives to companies and workers to encourage part-time jobs. Now, almost half of Dutch employees work part-time—including 75% of women and 26% of men.

Despite the popularity of reduced hours, economists have long debated whether a nation can afford so much leisure. Critics argue that the system can lead to inefficiencies and higher costs for business. Yet unemployment is low, and Dutch productivity per hour worked is among the highest in Europe, according to the OECD.

Other European countries are watching closely. “We see the Netherlands as a kind of laboratory,” said François, a labor economist at the University of Paris.

As the debate about a four-day week continues elsewhere, the Dutch example suggests that a gradual, organic shift might be the most effective way to shorter working hours.

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Top Five Countries with Lowest Crime Rates

The countries with the top five lowest crime rates in the world in 2025 are Iceland, Singapore, Switzerland, Japan, and Qatar.

Top Five Countries with Lowest Crime Rates

• Iceland consistently ranks as the safest country globally due to its very low crime rate and high safety standards.

• Singapore is noted for robust law enforcement, strict regulations, and strong community policing, making crime extremely rare.

• Switzerland offers low crime, high-quality policing, and cultural respect for law and order.

• Japan combines efficient law enforcement with a peaceful culture, resulting in notably low crime rates.

• Qatar enjoys strict laws and high levels of security, contributing to exceptionally low crime statistics.

Factors That Contribute to Low Crime

• These countries generally have:

  • Strong law enforcement and judicial systems.

  • High living standards and social equality.

  • Effective community-oriented policies and public safety measures.

Crime and Safety Measurement

• Rankings are based on crime indices, surveys, and peace indices, which regularly place these nations at the top for safety and lowest incidence of crime.

Country	Crime Index 2025	Key Features
Iceland	Very Low	Strong community, low violence
Singapore	Very Low	Strict laws, public order
Switzerland	Very Low	High trust, efficient police
Japan	Very Low	Respectful culture, low theft
Qatar	Very Low	Rigorous policing, safe cities

These nations are recognized globally for their exceptional public safety and consistently low crime rates.

What caused the Johor quake and is S'pore safe from such tremors?

By Clara Lai and Seah Kwang Peng

A rare earthquake with a magnitude of 4.1 struck Johor on August 24, causing tremors in some parts of Negeri Sembilan and Melaka.  Residents reported feeling their homes shake. The incident sparked questions about the risk of earthquakes in Singapore and what causes such tremors.

What causes earthquakes?

Earthquakes occur when there is a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust. This happens when accumulated strain, typically along faults or plate boundaries, is released, causing ground shaking. Seismic waves travel from the point of release, known as the focus, spreading outwards.

Most earthquakes take place at the boundaries of tectonic plates. These plates continually move, sliding past and colliding with one another. When the stress exceeds the strength of rocks, the energy is released as earthquakes.

What causes intraplate earthquakes?

While most earthquakes are interplate – occurring at pl

ate boundaries – intraplate earthquakes take place within a plate.

These are less common, as the stress within plates tends to be much lower. However, intraplate earthquakes can occur when there are old faults or weak zones inside plates. Local volcanism or human activities such as mining and reservoir-induced seismicity can also trigger them.

How frequent are such earthquakes in Malaysia?

Peninsular Malaysia is historically not prone to earthquakes. Most of Malaysia's earthquakes are located off the west coast of Sabah and near the boundary with Indonesia, which is part of the Pacific "Ring of Fire".

However, Peninsular Malaysia is not immune. A small number of intraplate earthquakes have occurred, including the 2015 quake in Ranau, Sabah.

How is Singapore affected by these earthquakes?

Singapore is situated on stable ground, away from tectonic plate boundaries, making it one of the world's least seismically active regions.

However, strong earthquakes in nearby regions, such as Sumatra, have caused tremors felt in high-rise buildings. These tremors usually cause no damage.

Is Singapore safe from such tremors?

Experts say the likelihood of a damaging earthquake occurring in Singapore is extremely low. The country is not located near major fault lines and stringent building codes ensure that structures can withstand minor tremors.

While tremors may be felt from distant earthquakes, they generally pose minimal risk to safety and property.

Physical crimes on the rise in first half of 2025

More theft, molestation, rape cases, knife crimes compared with same period in 2024

Crime Comparison
The first six months of 2025 have seen an increase in various types of physical crimes, according to the latest police statistics released yesterday.
Shop theft, rape, knife-related incidents, and cases of outrage of modesty were all up compared with the first half of 2024.

In total, there were 4,226 reported physical crimes from January to June this year, a 15 percent increase from the 3,670 cases reported in the first half of last year. That is the highest number for the same period since 2021.

The biggest rise was in shop theft, which jumped 25 percent from 1,089 cases to 1,361.
Knife-related incidents rose 18 percent, from 200 in the first half of 2024 to 236 so far this year.
Cases of outrage of modesty increased 12 percent, from 1,002 to 1,121.
Reports of rape went up 19 percent, from 163 cases to 194.

Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police, Lim Joo Teck, attributed the increases primarily to a post-pandemic return to social activities and more crowded public spaces. He said: "With more people out and about, there are unfortunately more opportunities for such offenses. We continue to step up enforcement in shopping districts and nightlife precincts."

He urged citizens to remain vigilant and take precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas and reporting suspicious behaviour immediately.
He also noted that community policing efforts are ramping up, particularly in areas with higher crime rates, and that additional outreach programmes will roll out over the next few months.

Knife Crimes
Knife-related crimes have drawn particular scrutiny following a series of highly publicized incidents in June.
In several cases, victims sustained serious injuries requiring hospitalization.
Commissioner Lim noted that investigations are ongoing in most cases, with several suspects already charged.

He added: "The vast majority of knife-related offenses do not involve random acts of violence; many are domestic or arise from personal disputes."

Crime in Perspective
Despite the worrying rise in physical crimes, Commissioner Lim said total reported crime — including non-physical crimes such as online scams and fraud — remained steady compared with 2024.
He cautioned, however, that vigilance is necessary, as criminals often adapt their methods.

"While the focus now is on physical offenses, the threat from cybercrime is ever-present. We must not let our guard down," he added.

Mid-year crime figures
Total Physical Crimes
2024 H1: 3,670
2025 H1: 4,226

Shop Theft
2024 H1: 1,089
2025 H1: 1,361

Knife-Related Incidents
2024 H1: 200
2025 H1: 236

Rape
2024 H1: 163
2025 H1: 194

Outrage of Modesty
2024 H1: 1,002
2025 H1: 1,121

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Sheng Siong using facial recognition to catch shoplifters, cut losses from failed transactions

David Sun
Crime Correspondent

Since April 2024, Sheng Siong has added facial recognition technology to its security camera system, to better identify and catch shoplifters.

It is also used to identify unwitting customers whose payment transactions failed, possibly because of network or card swiping issues, before they leave the store.

The system is now in use in around 50 of the 83 Sheng Siong outlets.

Shoplifting suspects are typically identified only after they leave the store with unpaid items.

The staff trawl through security footage and identify the culprit, whose face is then flagged in the system.

When that person visits a Sheng Siong outlet again, the system alerts store managers.

The staff monitor the suspects, approaching and stopping them if they attempt to shoplift again.

Suspects’ faces are removed from the system only after they have been arrested by the police.

Mr Lim Hock Chee, the chief executive of Sheng Siong Group, said the system has proven effective. He said that previously, staff would catch an average of four shoplifters at each outlet every year.

But with facial recognition, they now catch an average of eight shoplifters at each store every year.

Mr Lim said: “In the past it was a manual process, where we had to print photos of suspects and my staff had to then identify the suspects themselves. Now it’s all auto and digital.”

There were 2,097 cases of shop theft reported in the first half of 2025, an increase of about 4.2 per cent compared with 2,013 cases during the same period in 2024.

Mr Lim said the technology has also helped reduce losses from failed transactions.

He said some customers would unwittingly rush off after tapping their card for payment.

Sometimes, the payments did not go through, but the customers had already left with the items.

Mr Lim said there are about $10,000 worth of such failed transactions every month across all its outlets.

By using facial recognition technology, Sheng Siong has been able to identify such customers.

When these customers return, staff approach them and inform them about the previous failed transaction, requesting that they make payment.

This has helped to reduce the amount lost to failed transactions each month to about $1,500.

Sheng Siong intends to roll out the use of facial recognition in all its stores.

Posters informing shoppers about the cameras have been put up in all outlets.

Sheng Siong is part of the police’s Shop Theft Awareness for Retailers programme, to help retailers develop effective shop theft prevention measures.

As at June 30, more than 1,000 retail outlets are part of the programme, including FairPrice, Watsons and Sephora.

On Sheng Siong’s use of facial recognition technology, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Devrajah Bala, deputy director of the police’s operations department, said: “Offenders will be identified and caught even if they commit shop theft some time ago. We encourage retailers without such major investments to follow other preventive measures made by Sheng Siong.”

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e version (8 pages- table of contents)

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The website

https://uplhwhjc.manus.space

This work presents a critical evolution in the quest for global sustainability. Its genesis was my original research at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), where I developed a framework for Collaborative Innovation for Sustainability (CIS). While that specific academic journey was paused, the core concept only grew in urgency.

Two transformative realizations propelled it forward: the monumental maturation of quantum computing from theory to an applied technology, and the clear lesson that regional initiatives, while valuable, are insufficient to address a planetary crisis. The path forward demands a paradigm shift to unprecedented international collaboration.

This book is the definitive blueprint for that shift. It is designed to equip the pioneers—the quantum scientists, sustainability engineers, policy makers, and global innovators—with the framework to unite these two fields and architect a resilient future.

Aging well interviews

Shall we discuss about age well
Initiatives and best practices like growing old in a graceful way.

Q: That's a beautiful perspective! Aging gracefully can involve maintaining a positive mindset and taking care of our health—what strategies do you think are most effective for doing that?

A: We will first look into the European context. The demographic stage is a mature aging society with an established welfare system. Their approach includes age-friendly communities, intergenerational integration, and preventive care. The key strength is the comprehensive policy framework and community-based solutions.

Q: That sounds really insightful! I love the idea of age-friendly communities and intergenerational integration. 

A: In China, the demographic stage is one of rapid aging, and the economy is developing. The approach taken focuses on technology-driven solutions, community mutual assistance, and economic opportunities. The key strength lies in innovation in community-based integrated services and digital solutions.

Q: That's a fascinating contrast! The use of technology in addressing the challenges of aging in China is really innovative—how do you think these solutions compare to the more traditional approaches in Europe?

A: In China, they leverage technology more than in Europe, but both have their strengths and weaknesses. 

Q: It's interesting how technology can offer unique solutions in China, while Europe leans more on community support. What specific technological innovations have you found most effective in improving the lives of older adults in China?

A: In China, there is a smartwatch program in Beijing that provides free smartwatches to residents aged 80 and above, featuring GPS and meal ordering. The internet action plan for the smart care sector is also very impressive, along with IT integration in community care services. Additionally, there is a digital platform for coordinating care for older adults in China.

Q: Wow, those smart watch programs sound incredibly helpful for seniors! It's amazing how technology can enhance safety and connectivity. Have you seen any other innovative projects in different countries that focus on elderly care?

A: In Japan, the investment in technology is more substantial. They have invested US$47 million in robotics dedicated to nursing and medical applications. Another initiative is the Osuki project, which integrates e-agriculture, e-health, and e-tourism. Additionally, Japan has integrated iPads with postal services. They also have mechanical assistance devices and telecare services. Furthermore, Japan holds the highest number of robotics patents globally.

Q: That's impressive! Japan's focus on robotics in healthcare shows how they are embracing technology to support their aging population.

A: Digital engagement statistics show that in Japan, 75% of those aged 65 to 74 are online, which is 50% higher than the OECD average. In China, there is significant growth in digital consumption among older adults. In Europe, the focus is on bridging the digital divide through public infrastructure.

Q: That's a remarkable statistic! It's inspiring to see how older adults in Japan are embracing technology, while Europe works to ensure everyone has access.

A: Some key learnings for Singapore are:

1. Government-led technology investment: Significant public funding for aging-related technology R&D.

2. Integrated smart city approach: Connecting aging services with broader digital infrastructure.

3. Wearable technology: Implement safety and health monitoring through accessible devices.

4. Public-private partnership: Collaborating with tech companies for aging-specific solutions.

5. Digital skills training: Systematic programs to improve older adults' technology literacy.

Q: Those key learnings for Singapore are really insightful! It's great to see a comprehensive approach that combines government support, technology, and training to empower older adults.

A: The healthcare and wellness system in Japan includes long-term care insurance, making it one of the few countries with a mandatory system. 

Q: That's an interesting approach! Japan's long-term care insurance system sounds like a strong safety net for the elderly. How do you think such a system could benefit other countries looking to improve their elder care?

A: Japan's long-term care insurance system provides a universal, government-managed safety net that ensures elderly citizens have access to affordable support services. Adopting similar models in other countries could address the rising challenges of aging populations by reducing the financial and emotional burden on families, increasing professional standards of care, and fostering social solidarity while empowering older adults to maintain independence and dignity through structured, accessible assistance. 

Q: That's a compelling argument! Implementing a similar system could indeed make a significant difference in how countries support their aging populations while promoting independence. Have you seen any countries successfully adopt aspects of Japan's model?

A: South Korea implemented a long-term care insurance system in 2008 that closely resembles Japan's structure, focusing on universal coverage and the certification process for care needs. Taiwan has developed a tax-funded long-term care scheme and is planning to further align its system with Japan's approach, emphasizing accessibility and community integration. China is piloting and expanding long-term care initiatives inspired by Japan's model, emphasizing age-based eligibility and the expansion of home and community-based services rather than just institutional care. Germany, however, was the first to legislate long-term care initiatives in 1995, sharing similarities with Japan's system, such as inclusive access, social insurance, financing, and a strong focus on maintaining. beneficiary independence and dignity.

A: I think the Japan's watch over service, leveraging 34,000 post offices and over 100 000 postal workers for systematic senior monitoring, is very impressive.

The system transforms daily mail delivery into a vital welfare check, where carriers note the well-being of seniors through simple greetings and alert families or local authorities if mail piles up or routines change. This human touch is augmented by formal agreements for check-in calls and partnerships with supermarkets and utility companies to monitor for anomalies. By turning its ubiquitous postal infrastructure into a community-based safety net, Japan efficiently combats senior isolation and provides a cost-effective, proactive model of care that ensures help arrives long before a crisis occurs.

Q: That's really impressive! It's amazing how a simple service like that can make such a big difference in seniors' lives. Are there any other innovations from different countries that you find particularly interesting?

A: Another one is the L-O-N-G-Z-H-E-N, one-stop program in China, which has comprehensive service coordination through train liasons. 

The Longzhen One-Stop Programme in China is designed to provide comprehensive service coordination by leveraging specially trained liasons to help individuals access and navigate a wide range of support services, ensuring that the delivery and management of these services are efficient, seamless, and tailored to individual needs. 

Q: That sounds like an incredibly thoughtful initiative! It's so important to have tailored services for seniors to help them navigate the complexities of aging.

A: The long-term one-stop Community Elderly Service Programme is distinguished by its integrated age-friendly approach that combines personalized support with a curated network of local service providers to address the multifaceted needs of elderly individuals, particularly those aged 80 and above or with disabilities. For instance, the program organizes regular haircut events twice a month for individuals like Mr. Lee, an 83-year-old stroke survivor who otherwise couldn't access services due to mobility challenges. Beyond grooming, it facilitates home-delivered meals, ensuring nutritional diversity, evidenced by 97% of clients reporting valid meals post-intervention, and provides medical assistance including emergency alert response that has enabled rapid transport to hospital for client asphyxiation, strokes or heart attacks. Additionally, the program offers legal assistance, counselling and shopping support all coordinated through trained, liasons and volunteers who build trust through continuous engagement. It negotiates discounted rates with local businesses and integrate government and social insurance coverage, reducing financial barriers while maintaining quality and compassion in service delivery.

Q: Wow, that program sounds incredibly comprehensive and compassionate! It’s heartwarming to see such efforts being made to ensure that elderly individuals receive the care and support they need.

A: All successful programs are built on existing infrastructure rather than creating entirely new systems. The most effective solutions combine technology with human interactions. Services are delivered at the neighborhood level through trusted local organizations. The best programs address multiple needs, such as social, health, and economic, simultaneously. Successful innovations are designed for replication across different communities.

Q: You're absolutely right! Combining technology with human interaction at the community level can lead to more effective solutions. Have you seen any similar programs in your area that aim to support the elderly?

A: Singapore has been actively enhancing senior support through various community-driven initiatives. Beyond the efforts of the Health Promotion Board and the Agency for Integrated Care, the establishment of Active Ageing Centres across neighbourhoods brings essential services closer to seniors. These centres not only provide regular health screenings and exercise sessions but also conduct educational talks and workshops on nutrition, chronic disease management, and mental wellness. The integration of wellness hosts and community volunteers ensures that seniors, especially those who may be frail or living alone, are checked on regularly and encouraged to participate in social activities that keep them engaged and maintain their sense of purpose.

At the same time, the government’s support is complemented by grassroots participation, with neighbourhood volunteers playing a crucial role as the first line of contact within the community. From befriending services to accompanying seniors for medical appointments, these efforts help reduce social isolation while promoting healthier, more active lifestyles. By placing services within walking distance, whether through community clubs, Residents’ Committees, or senior activity corners, Singapore creates a supportive ecosystem where seniors can conveniently access both health-related and social programmes. This approach not only strengthens intergenerational bonds but also builds more resilient and caring communities.

Q: Those initiatives in Singapore sound fantastic! It's wonderful to see communities taking proactive steps to engage and support their elderly population. That sounds like a well-rounded approach to promoting healthy lifestyles among seniors!

A: The one-stop service coordination model is good in Singapore, apart from technology-enhanced community services. The employment matching and training program for seniors is also commendable, as well as the caregiver support system and digital health monitoring.

Q: Those are some excellent points! It's great to see that Singapore is focusing on employment opportunities and support for caregivers, as well as incorporating digital health monitoring for seniors. 

A: All regions should use pilot programs to test innovations before scaling. Central policies should be adapted to the local context and needs. There should be integration among the government, private sector, and civil society. Regular assessment and policy adjustments should be based on outcomes. Singapore should learn from the pilot-to-scale approach, multi-agency coordination, performance monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and adaptive governance. 

Q: That's a smart approach! Testing innovations through pilot programs can help ensure they're effective before a wider rollout. 

A: Singapore can establish systematic support for family caregivers, including financial assistance, and invest in mechanical aids and remote monitoring technologies. It should concentrate resources on enabling aging in place, consider mandatory long-term care insurance models, and leverage Singapore’s healthcare access for regional aging services. 

Q: Those are very thoughtful recommendations! Supporting family caregivers and investing in technology can make a huge difference in enhancing the quality of life for seniors. 

A: For productive opportunities and employment aspects, Singapore can establish dedicated centers for older adult employment services. They should focus on transferring existing skills to new roles rather than identical job placement. In Singapore, small business partnerships are broader. They should engage SMEs that may be more flexible in hiring older workers. Government funding is also critical; it should provide public funding for older adult employment support services and training integration. Combining job placement with skill training and interview preparation is essential. 

Q: Your ideas about establishing dedicated centers for older adult employment services are truly inspiring! 

Singapore’s dirty little sense of entitlement

Tan Dawn Wei
Senior Correspondent

Whenever anyone on a China visit asks me what memories I brought home, I would recall the blinding dazzle of Blade Runner-esque skylines, the mouth-watering food, and the mind-boggling scale of its population.
But perhaps the image that left the deepest impression was how clean many of its cities are. Clean, as in spotless.
Shanghai, for example, which is eight times the size of Singapore, is kept spick and span – thanks to an army of uniformed cleaners who can be seen sweeping the streets at all hours of the day.
What is also noticeable is that it is quite hard to find a public bin in cities like Shanghai or Hangzhou. The first time I had to dispose of a tissue packet, I had to go on a hunt. I walked, and walked, before I spotted a bin.
The message is clear: Don’t create waste, don’t expect others to take care of your trash, and take pride in your environment and neighbourhood.
Back in Singapore, it hit me as I strolled through my own neighbourhood, which has been touted as a conserved enclave and was once in the running for a Unesco World Heritage Site listing.
It has been three years since we used the “Circuit Breaker” term to describe the strict movement controls in the country to stop the spread of Covid-19.
Back then, when everyone was ordered to stay home, Singaporeans discovered and pounded neighbourhood parks, playgrounds, and other communal spaces like they never did before.
It probably didn’t help that many more Singaporeans had adopted fur kids, and when dog runs were closed, these animals made their mark on public areas, grass patches, and under the grounds of ever-present banyan trees.
Now, it’s almost as if being able to spot an elusive McDonald’s Happy Meal toy in the grass is a national sport. Why else would residents so nonchalantly discard bottles, masks, and even soiled diapers at the foot of recycling bins or in the car park, instead of walking a few steps to throw them into a rubbish bin?
Maybe it’s because we think someone else will clear up after us.
It’s not that Singaporeans prioritize recycling or properly disposing of their waste. This sense of entitlement lies at the heart of the country’s cleanliness woes.
The assumption underlying the “Clean and Green” image of Singapore, according to some experts, is that the community will do nothing unless forced to.
Ms Lee Hui Xian, Town Council estate planning manager, called it the “Spoil Market” syndrome.
Sure, we live in Asia’s most expensive city. Some 5.9 million people out of a global population of 8.1 billion call Singapore home. But we’re still the same untidy lot living on this tiny island.
Our rubbish output has been rising too – climbing by almost 25 per cent from 5.2 million in 2008 to an expected 6.7 million in 2028, if not reined in.
Singapore is not short on rules or enforcement. There is no shortage of public bins.
What it lacks is a populace with a shared sense of duty for public spaces.
Whether scrounging through a green space for housing estate residents or climbing over a barricade at a local park, more Singaporeans are leaving more rubbish behind.
At the core: too many people still expect someone else to clean up after them and that it’s someone’s job to keep Singapore spotless.
Some experts, like sociologist Tan Ern Ser, say that civic-mindedness in Singapore might even be going backward, as younger Singaporeans may not think so much about the commons anymore and that a property-centric culture, which confers exclusivity and comfort to the haves, is not helpful.
When residents once banded together to plant trees to shade pavements and grass verges, today’s estate management companies are just expected to contract out weeding and grass cutting to the lowest bidder.
A survey by the National Environment Agency and the Chua Chu Kang Town Council in 2022 showed that while Singaporeans value cleanliness and see risks to public health, few individuals go out of their way to keep places clean.
CIVIC DEFICIT
This country has built its global brand on order, discipline, and cleanliness, riding high on decades of the “Clean and Green” wave.
If my friends from China were to come to Singapore for a visit today, I’d be embarrassed to show them around my heritage neighbourhood and tell them this conserved historical enclave was once in the running for a Unesco World Heritage Site listing.
It would be much more meaningful if we took pride in our public spaces and felt embarrassed by dirty litter in our backyard, rather than rely on others to clean up after us.
The problem, say experts, is that Singaporeans have come to take public cleanliness for granted, because there are so many rules and there will always be someone to do the cleaning up.
A civic culture can’t be built on rules alone. And why is the Japanese or Icelandic tourist so uncomfortable with littering, yet the Singaporean seems unfazed? Because it’s a social norm in Japan and Iceland, and there is social pressure not to dump rubbish on the ground.
Singaporeans are too reliant on the army of foreign cleaners, and some even think that cleaning up after themselves devalues their status as professionals or white-collar workers.
Unless that mindset changes, the “Clean and Green” brand may lose its shine quickly.

tan dawn wei@sph.com.sg

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