Produced by Diploma in Mass Communication students School of Management and Communication
May-June 2018 www.republicanpost.sg
A winner emerges from a fight against a lifelong medical condition (Page 3)
Muay Thai achieves IG status (Page 5)
An UnPhoGettable Trip (Page 6)
MEET THE TEAM
EDITOR’S NOTE Hey RP! Where has time gone? Let’s do some catch up on this eventful half a semester. In this edition, we featured two inspirational graduates and the hardships they faced during their journey here in RP. With our new freshmen settling in, who can forget about the epic RP and Nando’s collaboration! We dug deep in Twitter to find out the origins of this cool collaboration. Need new clothes for the new semester? We got you covered with stories on thrifting. From vintage Gucci to nameless brands we bring you on a journey to find unique pieces for every occasion. If you’re planning where to go, you might want to check out our stories on the Tsukiji Fish Market in Japan and travelling to Bangkok on a budget. You might pick up some tips. For football fans, the World Cup is upon us! You might want to check out pages 15 and 16 for our guide to the tournament. Don’t forget to check online for our editor’s food adventure to four bazaars other than Geylang and our writer’s feelings on Avengers: Infinity Wars which left everyone honestly shook. That’s it from me. I hope you enjoy this edition of Republican Post!
Clarabelle Editor of Republican Post
Meet The Team
Top to Bottom: Row 1: Erma Syafiqah (desk lead), Juan Sufyan, Darius Boey, Muhammad Haziq Ismail, John Tan Row 2: Darcel Anthony, Derek Wong, Nur Syahirah Mazlan, Siti Khadijah (desk lead), Jae-Eryana Fitri, Francine Eryka Rojas, Angelyn Tan Row 3: Fairuze Iqbal, Tashinnya (desk lead), Jasmine Lim (deputy editor), Clarabelle Tan (editor), Siti Sabrina (desk lead), Jorge Sng Row 4: Qaisara Zulkifli (design lead) 2 The Republican Post
POST FEATURE
In fight against lifelong medical disorder, SAS student delivers a rousing response
By DARCEL AL ANTHONY
3 Quick Facts to know about RP Graduation 2018
All SMILES: SAS student Benz Kew credits lecturers like Dr Steven Fong for his learning at RP. (Photo Courtesy of Benz Kew) School of Applied Science valedictorian Benz Kew is like most youths. He enjoys travelling and is passionate about his interests. One look at him, and you would not believe that this 20-year-old suffers from a life-threatening disorder which hit during his first semester in RP. Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, a lifelong medical condition that affects the lungs and limits the ability to breathe in 2014, Benz’s world was turned upside down. He had to defer his studies for a year due to his intensive treatment. However, instead of wallowing in self-pity, he uses this as fuel for his mental stamina. “Any setbacks that I will face would not be worse than my medical condition. They will not last forever, unlike my condition. Any problems that I will face can be overcome with that knowledge,” said Benz. Graduating with a Diploma in Marine Science and Aquaculture as well as a Diploma Plus Certificate in International Business with Distinction, Benz is amongst the top 10-per-cent of his cohort. He was awarded the RP-Daisy Phay Foundation Scholarship and the Far East Organisation Scholarship, and had also attained several module prizes during his three years at RP. Benz has displayed a fervent passion for aquaculture since his time studying at the School of Science and Technology. He has been a part of the World Aquaculture Society since 2013, attending conferences to update himself on global aquaculture. He even cites his favourite memory in RP to be conducting intertidal surveys in Sentosa, where he came across the diverse marine life. “I feel that I have a connection with nature. The interaction with the environment and the atmosphere it provides really sparks my curiosity,” Benz said. During his time in RP, Kew refuses to let his health condition get in the way of having a holistic student life. A committed member of the National Youth Achievement Award interest group, he volunteered his time helping the elderly at O’Joy Care Services and SilverAce. Following his passion for marine science and aquaculture, Kew was also part of the Marine Stewardship Council for EarthFest 2015 where he helped to raise awareness of the mislabelling of fishes. However, things have not always been so smooth sailing for Benz. Due to the fungal infection he has in his lungs, Kew is unable to perform strenuous exercises and has to avoid damp areas lest he gets infected. He even feels that his health condition is a burden, hence why he tends to avoid his friends at times - so as to not worry them. However, despite the challenges that Kew faces, he still remains as optimistic and enduring as ever. His goal in life is to pursue his passion for marine science and aquaculture. “I want to do whatever I can with the time that I have left, with perseverance and determination. I want to live the life that I want to live to the fullest,” Benz said. He mentioned his mentor, Dr Grace Loo, as a pillar of strength. Dr Loo had worked very closely with Benz’s family and lecturers to facilitate a conducive learning environment for Benz as he had to miss lessons sporadically due to his health condition. She had also arranged for Benz to intern at DHI Water & Environment, during his final year, ensuring that he got to follow his passion for marine science while not compromising his health by being exposed to moist areas. Dr Loo said: “Benz faced a number of challenges that could have limited what he could do, but he chose to pursue his passions and never to give up. It may have been difficult for him at times, but he always perseveres and keeps a positive outlook, where others may have given up. He pushed on to overcome and find ways around these obstacles, and this was what helped him to achieve success.” Benz has a mantra to follow. When the tough gets going, he views it as an opportunity to improve himself. He recalled when he had to defer his studies for a year as his health was declining and he needed to undergo intensive treatments. Instead of feeling demoralised, Benz said he felt challenged and preferred to seize the day instead, continuing his studies shortly afterward. “I cannot live a life without progress. There must be continuous progression. I have to improve myself constantly, so as to feel satisfied. If I don’t seek to improve myself and to embrace changes, I would remain in the past,” Benz said. Benz is currently pursuing a degree in Business and Environmental Science at James Cook University. He advises his juniors to be passionate in whatever they do and to find motivation within themselves, instead of others. Benz said: “Don’t dwell in the past, always seek the future. Pursue the unknown.”
4,755 graduates received their diploma certificates
First batch of students from the Diploma in Infocomm Security Management (51)
and Diploma in Engineering Systems and Management (68) graduated
Two new Specialist Diplomas – Specialist Diploma in Digital Content Creation for Business and the Specialist Diploma in Cloud Architecting and Management unveiled
The Republican Post 3
POST FEATURE
SAS student’s visit to the school of hard knocks pay off By JOHN TAN WEE KANG
A DIFFERENT FEELING: Zachary Quek Boon Hong’s wide smile at RP Graduation Ceremony was a far cry from the time he received his ‘O’ Level results in 2014 when he failed mathematics and had to repeat. (Photo: John Tan Wee Kang)
They whispered behind your back, talked openly about your failures and humiliated you. In the end, you take the setback on the chin and push through it all. This was the story of Zachary Quek Boon Hong who spent too much time gaming in secondary school, did badly for his ‘O’ Levels in 2014 and could not qualify for post-secondary education because he failed mathematics. Four years later, Zachary graduated with a Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences and a GPA of 3.88. The jubilation the 21-year-old experienced at the recent graduation ceremony in RP was a far cry from the emotions he had experienced when he received his ‘O’ Levels results in 2014. Then, Zachary failed mathematics and had an aggregate score of 25. The thought of going back to school and wearing his school uniform again when he thought he was going to throw it away was “terrible”. Zachary recalled: “I pissed off a few teachers because I was the one who skipped school, and I wouldn’t do homework and I was sent out for long hair my long hair.” Zachary ate humble pie and repeated as a Secondary 5 student but faced a barrage of questions on why he was repeating, both on social media and from
the friends of his girlfriend. But Zachary’s outlook changed when a teacher he did not know gave him this piece of advice: “It doesn’t matter who you were before, what matters is what you do from here.” “I really listened to the teacher, didn’t fall asleep and I aimed for perfect attendance,” Zachary said. The turnaround was complete when he achieved an A1 for mathematics and an aggregate score of 12 for his second ‘O’ Levels attempt. In RP, Zachary flourished. He was inducted into the Director's Roll of Honours for four consecutive semesters and was awarded the Ngee Ann Kongsi Scholarship in 2016. Dr Dawn Er, who taught Zachary in Year 3, said she found it “heartening to have taught such a driven student”. Zachary is planning to pursue a degree in Medicine or Pharmacy at the National University of Singapore as he wants to “help people”. He recalled dealing with a difficult patient during his internship, even though some staff avoided the patient. “People gave me a second chance so I gave him a second chance,” Zachary said. Zachary gave this piece of advice to those going through a similar struggle: “Come to school every day. Don’t come for the sake of it. Don’t come cause you’re one partial away from being barred from exams.”
Conquering Education One Diploma at a Time By J. JAIDURGA
PRIDE: Toh Chin Seng, 29, graduated with his third diploma recently after he was dismissed from RP eight years ago. (Photo: J. Jaidurga) While most of us are on our first or maybe second diploma, Mr Toh Chin Seng graduated on May 2, 2018 with his third – a part-time Diploma in Business Practice (International Human Resources Management). His GPA was 3.6. Before this most recent academic success, the 29-year-old had obtained a Diploma in Organisational Psychology from SHRI Academy and a WSQ Professional Diploma in Leadership and People Management at Kaplan
4 The Republican Post
Professional and Capelle Academy. Mr Toh said: “It's a carefully crafted career and professional development journey that I plotted, each of these three diplomas are meant to synergistically complement one another. The HR Diploma covers the essential foundation knowledge in the field, Organisational Psychology helps me understand why employees do what they do, and the Leadership diploma is about leading self and team.” Mr Toh’s road to educational success started off bumpy. While pursuing the Diploma in Biomedical Sciences in RP in 2010, he was dismissed because he did not meet the attendance requirements. It was during National Service (NS) that Mr Toh’s outlook towards education changed and he cited his NS supervisor as the source of inspiration. “He was a role model and I learned a lot from him in terms of how employees should be treated and what a great leader looked like. This sparked my interest in leadership and motivation,” said Mr Toh. Lecturer Jayden Kim said Mr Toh was “an enthusiastic student”. “He worked very sincerely in my class throughout the semester, and he did a great job in his assignments,” Mr Kim said. Mr Toh is currently a Training Administrator at CrimsonLogic. He recently secured a place at Singapore University of Social Sciences to pursue a part-time Bachelor of Human Resource Management, but has sights set on achieving a CIPD Level 5 Intermediate Diploma in Learning and Development as well. He believes that learning is a lifelong process and should never stop. Mr Toh said: “If something interests you and sparks your curiosity, go sign up for a short course or pick up a new skill. You might just discover your new passion. It's the digital age and with new technology developing so quickly, there is a need to learn new skills to stay relevant.”
POSTFEATURE FEATURE POST
Persistence pays off as Muay Thai achieves IG status By DARIUS BOEY
FOLLOW MY LEAD: RP Muay Thai’s Captain Ridhwan Rossli demonstrates jabbing and crossing exercises that he had planned for training. (Photo: Darius Boey) They started in 2013 with 20 members, training because they love the sport and paying out of their pockets to hire a coach. Five years on, RP’s Muay Thai enthusiasts have an Interest Group to call their own after the Office of Student and Graduate Affairs approved their application to run the IG. This means that they no longer train under provisional status and are a fully-fledged IG of RP. Currently, Muay Thai has about 140 members.
“I think it’s amazing to be recognised as an official IG, to proudly say that you are from Republic Poly’s Muay Thai and represent the school in terms of competition and more,” said Muay Thai expresident Wong Juda, 21. “Prior to being official, we had to actually hire a coach from another gym, and in fact the students had to pay for the coach ourselves,” he added. “It is a financial challenge for those who couldn’t afford it and I’ve seen students struggle between wanting to go and not being able to afford it.” However, the work does not stop there as the former president believes that the martial arts group not only have to live up to the official status and produce quality work, but also continue to give back to the school. Over the past few years, the IG has been organising various activities, such as workshops for National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA) participants, sports clinics for staff and programmes like Fight Night. “It’s an amazing thing, NYAA students come here to get their points to earn their Gold Award, but not only that, they can gain values and self-discipline,” said Fierzana Zaharee, 18, Muay Thai’s current Vice Captain, who added these activities enable her to share her passion for the sport with others. The IG, however, places safety of its members as a priority and has implemented strict rules to prevent injury. "We make sure everyone wears mouth guard during training, all accessories off, (watches, jewellery etc), hand-wraps on at all times and for the guys to have groin guard worn at all times during training,” said Ibrahim Mazeen Muneez, 20, Muay Thai's Advisor. As for those who are interested to join Muay Thai, captain Ridwhan Bin Rossli, said interested students are welcomed to attend their training at the open area near E5 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
An IG for students to unwind after a long day By JOHN TAN WEE KANG What games do intellectuals play? In RP, it appears to be mind games such as International Chess, Chinese Chess to card games like UNO. And every Wednesday at 4.30 p.m., a group of students from the Intellectual Games Interest Group (IG) meet at a classroom at W1 for their love of such games. The IG has about 45 members, with an average of 28 students attending the weekly session. Wong Min Xian, the IG’s Vice-President, said the IG’s niche appeal is “playing with friends” and board games offer an alternative to computer games. Their niche has led to a very relaxed environment, where the commitment is low and the fun is aplenty. “This IG (interest group) is a place for students to relax and have some fun before going home, feeling a lot better,” said Min Xian, 18, a Diploma in Biomedical Science student. But would a relaxed structure affect their appeal among the IGs? School of Management and Communication student Muhammad Shahazriel Mohammad Nizam who is the secretary of the IG, said: “We want the best of both worlds. We like things to be relaxed, not to take things too seriously, (as) it would ruin the atmosphere.” Liu Xiangyi, the IG’s President and an International Master in Chess, said they were in the planning stages of creating a competitive programme for Chess, if they can find enough people to take part. However, it is not all sunshine and rainbows for this IG. Grandon Oh, 19, SOI, and a senior member of the IG, said: “Every single year, there’s a foreboding dread about getting enough members to keep the IG afloat.” Besides concerns over low member enrollment, the IG faces negative stereotypes. Xiangyi, a Diploma in Digital and Interactive Media student, said most students who visited the IG’s booth during CCA Fiesta had the impression that the IG only plays Chess. He said: “Most Year 1s came and [thought] like this is chess. First thing they think when they see chess, ‘Okay, this is a game for nerds’. That’s why many people don’t even bother coming.” To exacerbate this problem, the IG was placed alongside other Sports
IGs like Basketball and Ultimate Frisbee during the Fiesta. According to Grandon, the challenge is to tell students: “We have board games and not just Chess.” Despite the challenges faced, they have no plans to go quietly into the night. The current management committee has started making attempts to change their IG’s image. For example, they sent Shahazriel to a Monopoly Tournament at Singapore Management University this January, where he finished third. They have also started to create an online presence by setting up Instagram and Facebook accounts.
NEXT MOVE: President of IGIG and International Master Liu Xiangyi hopes the IG can create a competitive programme for Chess, if they can find enough people to take part. (Photo: John Tan Wee Kang)
The Republican Post 5
POST FEATURE
An UnPHOgettable Trip By JUAN SUFYAN and ERYKA ROJAS When it came to a graduation trip, Hotel and Hospitality Management graduates Syasya Afiqah and Istiqomah Aziz shunned the scenic beaches of Phuket or Bali. Instead, they embarked on a 10-day International Service-Learning Project (ISLP) to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Syasya explained that an ISLP offered a different experience while Istiqomah felt she needed to give back to society. The duo’s decisions raised the eyebrows of their peers and family members as they expressed health and hygiene concerns. “But yeah, we did it,” said Istiqomah, 19. The two students were part of a group of 37 volunteers – 34 students and three facilitators - who went for the ISLP between 12 and 21 March, 2018. Organised by the School of Hospitality in collaboration with the School of Management and Communication, the students worked with Maison Chance – a non-profit organisation which provides shelter, training and education for the disadvantaged. At Vietnam, the volunteers were each given a class of students to work with. There, the volunteers played games, taught the students English and even prepared a Hainanese chicken rice lunch. Syasya and Istiqomah first met at an overseas school trip to South Korea in 2016. Vietnam proved to be a different experience. Apart from the language barrier, humid weather and the sometimes rowdy children, their friendship was tested throughout the trip. “We fought a lot” said Syasya, 20. According to Istiqomah, this happened every night. However, the experience strengthened their friendship as they got to learn more about each other. “It felt awkward to be left with just her, but now we’re okay,” Istiqomah said. Fostering a stronger friendship wasn’t the only thing they took from the trip. Having spend ample time with children who slept on tables and floors during break time and didn’t let their dirty uniform get in their way of learning, Istiqomah learned to appreciate the little things in life.
“We all take things for granted, especially our beds at home. And they don’t even have proper sleeping areas,” Istiqomah said. For Syasya, it was her love for kids that made her happy just by seeing them. In fact, they are planning to return in September. Syasya said: “I want to see them grow.”
ALL SMILES: Istiqomah (far right) and Syasya (center), were just two of the 34 volunteers who engaged and guided the students of Maison Chance during the 10-day trip. The students of Maison Chance are former street kids, have parents who are disabled and the less fortunate. (Photo: Charis Chan)
A Learning Experience Worth Returning For By NUR SYAHIRAH BTE MAZLAN
LEARNING DOESN’T JUST STOP AFTER GRADUATION: Zane (left) has been returning to RP to work on campus events, such as IGNITE!, and learns something new every time. (Photo courtesy of Zainulrahman Motalif) Even though he graduated two years ago, RP alumni Zainulrahman Motalif returns regularly to school to help out in school productions. This included last year’s IGNITE! Music Festival and Muse IX dance performance.
6 The Republican Post
“At first, I came back to help because of my IG juniors and eventually I came back to help their juniors,” said Zainulrahman, who is known as Zane to many. “And when I mentor them, somehow in the process of the mentoring, it isn’t just me teaching them but also them teaching me.” The 27-year-old added: “It’s also a good thing for me, because I get to work with the new generation of people and how to overcome… new challenges.” A contract staff at the Ministry Of Finance, Zane thinks helping out in productions relates well with his Diploma in Customer Experience Management with Business. “Production has a lot of customer service relationship. You have to meet the clients and understand what kind of equipment they want. So you kind of have to mix both communication skills you learn from class and technical skills you learn from TRCC,” he said. Zane is grateful for the experience working with The Republic Cultural Centre (TRCC). “I love how TRCC is good at nurturing their students by putting them into situations where they must make decisions based off what they learnt from prior experiences. There isn’t always a fixed way to solve everything even in real life, so this helps students build their decision making skills in a work setting.” Currently assuming the role of Festival Secretariat at this year’s IGNITE! Music Festival, this industrious alumnus has big hopes for some of the productions he has worked with. “IGNITE! just had their 10th Year Anniversary. It’d be great to see the next 10 years happening too,” Zane said. “It can definitely happen with the right set of team members. Every chance is a new learning experience. Things will keep changing but as long as we keep an open mind and learn to be receptive towards feedback and suggestions, I’m sure IGNITE! will go far.”
POST FEATURE
Social Media Challenge success leads to free meals at FOP By SNG JORGE A recent deal for RP freshmen started as a tweet, a joke between friends and a social media challenge before it eventually became reality. Restaurant chain Nando’s Singapore sponsored meals and offered promotional deals at this year’s Freshmen Orientation Programme after two students tweeted about their dining experience in July 2017. Lut Mikail Sim, a Green Building Energy Management graduate, had casually posted a tweet on Nando’s Singapore twitter page. Lut, who was dining with three friends, had ordered two Nando’s chicken breasts but was served a single piece of chicken breast sliced into two. Silas Nathan, a final-year Business Application student, added to Lut’s tweet by detailing their experience at the restaurant. After the restaurant chain heard about their experience, Nando’s then offered Lut and Silas a free meal. Enter Mr Jeremy Leow, a member of the Orientation Programme 2018 committee, who joked about Nando’s becoming a sponsor for the event. Speaking to The Republican Post, Mr Leow said: “I didn't actively think of having Nando’s coming on to sponsor. It came as a joke between my engagements with the students.” Nando’s Singapore gamely took on the offer, issuing twitter users a 5,000 retweet challenge on July 7. Lut and Silas were caught off guard by Nando’s challenge but went along to spread the message to their followers and friends. Silas then went on to mention the tweet to several local influencers such as Dee Kosh, Xavier Lur and Jian Hao Tan. RP alumni and local YouTuber Tosh Zhang also came on board to help spread the word. Four days after the challenge was issued, the target was reached. On April 13, the second day of this year’s Freshmen Orientation Programme, Nando’s mascot Barci, came to RP to present Silas and Lut
SETTING SOCIAL MEDIA ALIGHT: Nando’s Singapore offered free meals to freshmen at this year’s FOP after two RP students responded to a successful social media campaign. (Photo: Twitter) two Nando’s tee shirts, a frame of their tweets hitting the 5,000 mark, Nando’s vouchers and a bottle of extra hot peri peri sauce. RP students also got a slice of the deal with special promotional meals redeemable at all Nando’s Outlets. In addition, freshmen got a free Nando’s meal after their orientation programme. Looking back at the chain of event, Silas said: “Sometimes the decision we make might seemed stupid in the beginning, but they lead to something great at the end.”
Going cashless in RP with By QISTINA NABILAH BTE RIZAL The drive to go cashless in RP has been given the thumbsup by some students as they returned to school in April with an added option of paying for their purchases with ez-link concession cards or NetsPay. Some students have praised the convenience offered by the new payment mode. “I’m situated at E6 and now I don’t have to waste my time withdrawing money at the ATM machine across the campus,” said second-year School of Infocom student Muhd Shahrizal. Recent RP graduate Muhammad Imran Norzehan, who returns to campus to help out in his Interest Group, added: “(I) pretty much (like using NetsPay) because it's more efficient and less time-consuming.” Some students appeared to be lured by a 50 cents discount offered by Nets if they use the payment mode. Second-year School of Management and Communication student Vernia Chia said she downloaded the NetsPay smartphone app when she heard about the discount. “My friend told me about NetsPay. I downloaded it because I heard about the 50 cents discount,” she said. Despite the convenience and discounts offered, some students appeared to be unaware of the new payment mode offered on campus. Mr Tee Kim Min, the vendor of the chicken rice stall at South Food Court, said: “Only half the students use NetsPay. Others don’t know about it yet.” Other students expressed a different opinion, with some worried that they would not be able to track their spending if they use electronic payments. “I prefer using cash as it helps me save money,” said Mastura Abdul Latif, 18, a second-year Biotechnology student. Still, the sight of NetsPay terminals and ambassadors
NO MONEY? NO PROBLEM: NetsPay enables students and staff at Republic Polytechnic to pay for their food with just a scan on the NetsPay app. (Photo: Qistina Nabilah Bte Rizal) promoting the payment type on campus have made students think about going cashless. “I heard about it when it launched but never ever had a chance to use it,” said Muhd Danish Bin Abdul Rahman, 18, a year-two Engineering Systems and Management student. “When it was introduced in RP, I immediately downloaded the app.”
The Republican Post 7
POST PHOTO
The Wall Street of Fish
Known for their pre-dawn daily Tuna auctions, Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market is a key tourist attraction in Japan. The world’s oldest and busiest fish market, Tsukiji Fish Market has been operating since 1935. However, the inner market is set to close on October 6 and move to Toyosu due to the wear and tear of the market and the 2020 Summer Olympic Games. Students from the Diploma in Mass Communication visited the market in March as part of a School Overseas Trip. Three students – CLARABELLE TAN, EDWARD SIEW and ZINHO DE COSTA - captured scenes from the world’s biggest market for raw fish. Some of the photos were taken using Japanese made film cameras, showcasing photography’s rawest form. T H E A R T E R I E S O F A F I S H M A R K E T: Workers ef ficiently shif t large styrofoam boxes of fish and other produce-filled baskets in the back ways of the market. These alleys are the veins that keep the hear t of the market’s business pumping all-year round. (Photo: Zinho De Costa)
HUSTLE AND BUSTLE: Japan attracted nearly 28.7 million international visitors last year, with Tsukiji Fish Market a key attraction for many local and international tourists. Besides the inner market, there are food stalls in the surrounding streets for visitors to buy produce and have a meal. ( P h o t o : Z i n h o D e C o s t a )
CLOSING TIME: Stallholders packing up the last of their stocks, washing their knives and locking their freezers. The best time to visit the market will be between 5a.m. and 10a.m. ( P h o t o : Z i n h o D e C o s t a )
F O O D PA R A D I S E : A p a r t f r o m b e i n g a f r e s h s e a f o o d m a r k e t , Ts u k i j i o f f e r s a variety of food options whether you are looking for a light snack or a full meal. When you’re done imagining what would be, feast on what has become of the fresh seafood with an array of food stalls guaranteed to satisfy any degree of craving. (Photo: Zinho De Costa)
8 The Republican Post
Designer: LISA NG
POST PHOTO
A FAVOURITE HAUNT FOR LOCALS TOO: Tsukiji is not just for tourists as a bulk of their visitors are locals who come here to eat and shop for their groceries. (Photo: Clar abelle Tan)
SPIR I was T OF TSU origi KIJI: n busi ness ally sche The move es ar dule voice o f Ts o d u d a t t a c t h e i r o p u n d a n d f o r 2 016 k i j i at th hed posi but e prob t t lems o the su ion as th market rro Clar e w a b e ith the n undings y were lle e w loca and had Tan tion. ) (Pho to:
ds of 0 kin 8 4 s e nd Besid an also fi : S S c E duce TIMEL , visitors al pro l c o l d f o seafo 70 types o traditiona t. 2 t rke i, a u o ab Moch he ma t s t a a h eet – – suc se sw d Siew) e n a p ar Ja : Edw o t o h (P
FRESH OFF THE BOAT: A day at Tsukiji see about 1,628 tonnes and 1.6 billion yen ($19.3 million) worth of seafood move through the market on average, according to a report by Bloomberg News. (Photo: Edward Siew)
Designer: LISA NG
ORDER U P: owners w Food store o r k fa s t to meet the dem ands of la r g e crowds a t T s u k ij i Market. T h e p la c e is a ls o k n o w n fo r s e r v in g s u s h i fo r b r e a k fa s (Photo: t. Edward Siew)
The Republican Post 9
POST FASHION
Five thrift stores where you can unearth hidden gems Thrifting has been thrust into the spotlight recently with media outlets such as Elle and Insider featuring the trend. As the idiom goes ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’, thrifting is definitely an experience like no other and something everyone should try once in their lives. The thrill of hunting down a unique piece and knowing that there’s probably no one else with the same piece is also satisfying. CLARABELLE TAN and JASMINE LIM bring you their five places for thrifting.
1. Loopgarms
STAY IN THE LOOP: A track jacket is a staple in the vintage streetwear trend. Loopgarms sports plenty of options from the 80s and 90s so you’ll never miss out and worry about getting caught by the fashion police. (Photo: Clarabelle Tan) Tip: Come early if you want to snag their newest drops as they really fly off the shelves.
(Photo: Clarabelle Tan) If you are a vintage streetwear junkie, visiting Loopgarms is a must. Nestled in the middle of HDB blocks at Veersamay Road in Little India, this modern looking store is a treasure trove of vintage goods. Here, you can find the usual name brands like Nike, Supreme and Tommy Hilfiger, but you can also find unique brands like McDonald’s. Bet you didn’t expect that!
Price: $20 and above. Be prepared to drop big bucks here, but hey all in the name of fashion! Location: 635 Veerasamy Rd, #01-148, Singapore 200635 Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 12 p.m. - 7.30 p.m. (Closed on Wednesday)
2. Salvation Army
(Photo: Frugal in Singapore) Price: $10 and above BIGGER IS BETTER: You’ll never run out of options at Salvation Army Praisehaven Mega Family Thrift Store – it is the biggest thrift store in Singapore taking up a whopping 20,000 square feet. (Photo: TIMEOUT) The largest thrift store in Singapore, Salvation Army is just the place for good finds and even better deals. With one whole floor dedicated to fashion, finding a full outfit here that won’t bust your wallet. Fair warning, there’s so much to choose from that you really have to dive in and spend some time sieving through the racks to find something you like. There’s definitely something for everyone here. 10 The Republican Post
Tip: Don’t quote us on this but if you’re a regular at the store, they sometimes throw in freebies! Location: 500 Upper Bukit Timah Road, S678106 Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fri and Sat: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Closed on Sunday) Designer: MIRA PURNAMASARI
POST FASHION
3. Refash
Tip: Follow their Instagram account, @refashsg to look out for their flash sales. Prices can go as low as 8.90! Bonus: Their items are all quality checked and either brand new or gently used, no one will even know it’s thrifted. Price: $10 and above
THE GREEN CLOSET: Thrifting is the way to sustainable fashion. From everyday outfits to special occasion dresses, Refash provides you with a sea of options by giving pre-loved clothes the new life it deserves, saving the earth one dress at a time. (Photo: Clarabelle Tan)
Locations: More details at https:// www.refash.sg/
(Photo: Clarabelle Tan)
Date night soon and need a dress? Running out of formal wear for class? Refash is the place to go if you’re looking for the princess look. With four outlets situated across Singapore - two outlets are in town - they are your affordable and convenient option. Carrying a range of brands from boutique to luxury, you’ll definitely find something for every occasion.
4. Deaththreads
) Pop up Tip: Follow their instagram to get updates on when their newest edition will be released. Price: $30 and above Location: 188-8 Tanjong Katong Road, Singapore 436 990 Opening Hours: Weekends 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
(PHOTO: Deaththreads)
Tight Tackle: Be prepared to tackle your way through the crowd at Deaththreads pop-up. Each edition opens for a limited time only, and stocks are one-of-a-kind. It’s a full house without fail each time. (Photo: Deaththreads)
If you love limited edition pieces and would queue hours for one, this is the store for you. Deaththreads is a physical thrift store that opens to the public when they drop their editions and close once their stocks are cleared. Each edition launch will have about a hundred unique vintage items ranging from Polo tees, to rare band t-shirts to vintage Air Jordans.
5. Retrogateofficial
) online
Love vintage pieces, but hate digging through racks for them? Retrogateofficial is the answer. It’s a vintage thrift store that runs on Instagram, so you can choose from a glance what you want to buy. Here you can not only buy from them, but also sell your pre-loved items on consignment. It’s the perfect place to spend and earn. Pieces with Pop Art culture references, Champion, Fila and Nike are the main finds you can get from their store. To buy or reserve pieces, simply drop them a direct message. (Photo: Retrogateofficial)
Designer: MIRA PURNAMASARI
Tip: They open pop-up stores from time to time, so to have a look and feel of the goods be sure to pay a visit! Pop-up stores are announced on their instagram, @retrogateofficial.
INSTA-THRIFTY: Quickest fingers first! Send a direct message to them the fastest to purchase an item on Retrogateofficial’s Instagram store. You can also keep up with what’s available through this hashtag #Retrogateavailable (Photo: Retrogateofficial) The Republican Post 11
POST TRAVEL
Surviving four days in Bangkok for
UNDER under $400
If Bangkok has been one of your go-to destinations for a quick getaway, you might understand the pain of having not enough money to spend. ADRIEL GOH suggests some tips and places of interest for a four-day stay for under $400, excluding the costs of flight tickets.
PLACES PLACES OF OF INTEREST INTEREST
MAEKLONG RAILWAY MARKET
ASIAtIQUE (MEKHONG)
Located 82 kilometres south-west from Bangkok, Maeklong Railway Market is like no other. That is because a train cuts right through the heart of the bustling market. Maeklong Railway Market has vendors who sell fresh produce & spices, food and other knick-knacks along the train tracks. At a three-hour interval starting from 8 a.m., the whistle of a train could be heard, signalling an incoming train from Ban Laem station. In seconds, vendors selling along the train tracks systematically remove their wares and keep their tarpaulin sheets to make way for the train. Once the train has left, the market reverts and business resumes. There are minibus services connecting Bangkok to the market. A single-way trip costs 80 baht ($3.40) and will take approximately an-hour-and-a-half to arrive. If immersing yourself into the local culture and an adventure off the beaten path is what you are looking for, then look no further to the Maeklong Railway Market.
Think a winding maze of shops selling replica watches, vintage items, bath bombs and wooden souvenirs. Now, imagine a towering iridescent blue ferris wheel in the backdrop of a dock. Asiatique The Riverfront is an open-air concept mall reminiscent of a fun fair. It occupies the former docks of the East Asiatic Company, a relocation company which the mall derives its name. The mall boasts 1,500 stores ranging from fashion, tech, souvenirs and food. Divided into four ‘Districts’ - Chareonkrung, Town Square, Factory and Waterfront - each district serves a different purpose. For instance, the Factory District is where trending fashion and gadgets are sold and Town Square District houses restaurants and bars. If you can imagine yourself sipping on a cup of ice cold coconut smoothie while slowly making your way through a maze of shops in search for a bargain, then Asiatique may be for you. The easiest ways to get to Asiatique is by booking a ride via a ride-hailing app or by taking a boat from Saphan Taksin pier. The mall opens from 5 p.m. till midnight.
TAKE TAKE PUBLIC PUBLIC TRANSPORT TRANSPORT There is simply no better way to get around the city of Bangkok than riding its train system. The Bangkok Mass Transit System, known as the BTS Skytrain, is an elevated train system similar to Singapore’s MRT. The BTS connects all, if not most major locations in Bangkok via four separate train routes. It even connects Suvarnabhumi Airport to the city! Ticket prices for the BTS varies from location to location, but on average cost about 15 to 40 baht (Less than SGD$2).
eat eat STREET STREET FOOD FOOD There is a reason why the locals love their street food. A simple albeit satisfying meal of Pad Thai, a few assorted skewers of meat coupled with a hearty glass of Thai milk tea will cost an average of SGD$4. It is simply wallet-friendly and cheap. So ditch that overrated and expensive Thai restaurant where tourists flock and go for the myriad food stalls along the streets instead. However, this does not cover the cost of imminent snacking that comes with cheap street food.
SCOUR ONLINE BOOKING WEBSITES FOR promotions and offers As daily promotions and deals are always ongoing on online booking websites such as Agoda, booking a room in a four-star hotel can cost as low as $52 a night. Split that amount between two people and you can live in luxury for three nights for just $78. If living in luxury is not your thing and you have a penchant to socialise, or perhaps you just want to further scrimp on your dollar, then hostels are your next best bet. Many imagine hostels to be cramped, old, and decrepit. That is not the case in Bangkok. A night in a chic and modern hostel, complete with air-conditioning and ample social space can go for as low as $8. Moreover, hostels are a great place to make friends from all walks of life, and what better way to explore and travel Bangkok but with new friends? It is also a refreshing change compared to staying in a hotel.
12 The Republican Post
Designer: LISA NG
POST LIFESTYLE
The purrfect c mpani n There are some RP students who adore cats. The Republican Post’s ANGELYN TAN XIU LI speaks to them to find out how the love affair with felines started.
NOT BAD LUCK: Some people may think that black cats are bad luck but RP student Nia Khairunnisa says they are among the sweetest in her family’s 23 cats. (Photo courtesy of Nia Khairunnisa Mohammad Nasir) Four years ago, she wanted just a cat for a pet. Now, Mass Communication student Nia Khairunnisa Mohammad Nasir has 23 cats. “I've always wanted to get a pet cat but we couldn't at that time as my grandparents were staying together with us,” she said. “My parents were worried the fur could cause them asthma.” When her grandparents passed, Nia’s first cat, Septer, arrived. “After a couple of weeks of having Septer, I realised that it can be a little lonely for him. That's why we decided to get Luna,” Nia, 20, said. A cat unexpectedly joined the family when Nia found it abandoned. Unable to fend for itself, she felt a sense of responsibility to adopt the cat, which she later named Baby. The remaining 20 cats Nia now has are the offspring of the first three cats. “Fortunately, we moved to a bigger house, so they all have a lot of space to play around. But we realised that if anymore were to come out, It would be very, very difficult to keep them. So, we've started sterilising
them. We're also planning to give the younger ones away. But it's quite tough because they're not fancy breeds you know. People just tend to want fancy breeds,” she said. Nia is not the only RP student who loves cats. Maizura Mohamad Maidin has three cats, Mo, Mushu and Mango. She grew up with a cat and feel the animal is the best pet one can have. “I grew up with a cat and have had a cat companion all my life till Simba passed, so I couldn’t really imagine myself living without at least one cat by my side,” said the Mass Communication student. “I do own koi fishes, but of course they’re not really pets I can cuddle and smother with love.” Maizurah, 19, has even set up a dedicated Instagram account - @ triplemmmeows - for her cats. She agrees that cats are often misunderstood. “I know some people who think that cats are unfriendly, mean animals that will scratch or bite you for nothing, but it’s really not true. Cats are loving creatures, as love as you love them, you’ll be loved in return,” Maizurah said. Nia agrees. When she was going through tough times, Septer was not just Nia’s pet but a companion. “I've had hamsters before, but I realise they smell and are very hard to take care of. And I’ve always been attracted to cats since young. Although, I remembered being very terrified of them when I was much younger,” she said. Besides Nia and Maizurah, a third-year Biomedical Sciences student Darren Fong proves that dogs are not only man’s best friend. He has three dogs and three cats at home. Two of the cats were adopted while Darren brought the third cat home after he found it injured and crying at the void deck. “I’m really a cat person,” he said. “Cats are more passionate and show affection more. Basically I love them because they are cute and fluffy. Honestly, I feel they are taking care of me instead of me taking care of them.” Darren says his cats will cuddle with him at night. “One sleeps on my chest, one sleeps on my head and one in between my legs. At around 7 a.m., they will wake me up by meowing and biting my hair and ears, use their paws to tap my face,” he said. Nia added: “The black ones are the sweetest. They'll be the ones to approach you first, and their character is just amazing. The fact that people think that cats are bad luck just because of their colour is absurd. I find that the same as racism. They're all wonderful creatures, with very different and unique personality. You just got to take time to understand them and earn their trust.”
“I know some people who think that cats are unfriendly, mean animals that will scratch or bite you for nothing, but it’s really not true. They’re one of the most loving creatures, some even more compassionate that humans.” - Maizurah
“People think that black cats bring bad luck. You see, from young, I’ve always wanted a black cat. I find them so pretty and pure. But then I started realising that people kept saying black cats are not good and I just couldn't comprehend that… The black ones are the sweetest. They'll be the ones to approach you first, and their character is just amazing.” - Nia The Republican Post 13
POST COMMUNITY
A Meaningful Morning with the Young at Heart By MARCELLIN LOPEZ Early on Saturday 2nd June, 27 Diploma in Mass Communication students headed off to the Sree Narayana Mission Building in Yishun to spend a day with the residents. The community service project was organised by the RP-Institute of Public Relations Singapore student chapter.
NO RUSH: A resident gazes out as she takes her time to have her breakfast that was prepared by the in-house cooks. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez) AS RIGHT AS RAIN: The day started off with a little shower as student volunteers headed off from RP to Sree Narayana Mission in Yishun on Saturday to entertain the residents for a day. Each student was to be paired with an elderly resident throughout the event. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
HYMN FOR THE WEEKEND: Among the fun-filled activities that took place that day was the karaoke session where both seniors and students sang their hearts out to familiar tunes like, “Dayung Sampan” and “Chan Mali Chan”. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
TENEMENT WALLS: Sree Narayana Mission, located in Yishun Avenue 5, is a senior care centre that offers nursing care, physiotherapy as well as occupational therapy, among other services. Opened in 2012, the nursing home facility houses a total bed capacity of 224. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
14 The Republican Post
AGE IS JUST A NUMBER: Although the majority of the residents were wheelchair-bound, their spirits were high during the singalong as they clapped and rattled their makeshift maracas – proving that age is indeed; but a number. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
POST COMMUNITY
ALL FUN AND GAMES: The residents enjoyed playing a couple of rounds of BINGO with the help of their “buddy” for the day. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
SPICK AND SPAN: The last thing the students did before heading back, was clean the dining hall of Sree Narayana Mission. Here we see 20-year-old Francine Eryka Rojas from the Diploma in Mass Communication wiping down one of the many plastic chairs. By the end, the students had polished every last table and chair in the dining hall. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
UNTIL NEXT TIME: After a day spent with the residents of Sree Narayana Mission, it was finally time to go back. The students expressed their sadness at having to leave the residents after their meaningful bonding session together. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
REGARDLESS OF RACE, LANGUAGE OR RELIGION: Visitors entering or leaving the building are greeted by these words inscribed at the entrance of the building. Narayana Guru was born around 1854 in India where he faced discrimination for being born into a “lower” caste. He later led a reform movement and is known for promoting spiritual freedom and social equality. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
MASTER STORYTELLERS: Nur Syafiq, 20, from the Diploma of Media Production and Design (DMPD) listens attentively to his new friend. In between the activities, both the residents and the students were found happily wrapped up in conversation, engaging one another with captivating stories about their lives. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez)
ALL SMILES: Throughout the day, it became increasingly apparent that the intimate interactions such as these brought bright smiles to both the residents and the students. As Mother Teresa so eloquently put, “We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do. (Photo: Marcellin Lopez) The Republican Post 15
POST COMMUNITY
Saying cheers for paying-it-forward By TASHINNYA CHANDRASEKARAN
A DRINK TO KINDNESS: Republic Polytechnic students gave out ‘Uplift’ cards to promote the pay-it-forward movement on May 12. The cards contained vouchers which can be redeemed for a drink at participating stores. (Photo: Clarabelle Tan)
Close to 150 Republic Polytechnic student volunteers from the School of Management and Communication took part in a pay-it-forward event around different parts of Singapore on May 12, 2018. The event, titled ‘#IBelanjaYou’, is not only the largest pay-it-forward movement but also the first of its kind in Singapore. Organised by Uplifters Singapore and supported by the Singapore Kindness Movement, PSA Singapore and Republic Polytechnic, the event was aimed at promoting the spirit of giving and encourage giving thanks to those who have showed kindness. To kick-start and prompt such acts of kindness, student volunteers gave out a set of three “Uplift Cards” to members of the public. Two cards were empty to encourage the recipients to fill it and pass it on, and
the last card contained a drink voucher. Notes containing instructions on how to use the cards were also attached. Huda Sajali, a Temasek Polytechnic student, was given a set meant to convey thanks after she was spotted donating to an elderly. “I think initiatives like these are important to ensure people are reminded to be thoughtful to one another and it also gives people an avenue to be caring,” the 19-year-old said. Planning for the event took five months. The Diploma in Mass Communication students who led the project said they were pleased with the event’s success. “The best part about working on this project is being able to make a difference and take that first step in encouraging everyone to be a little kinder. After all it’s in giving that we receive,” said final-year Mass Communication student Jasmine Lim Li Hua, who was the overall project head.
Yishun gets a brand new town square By BRENDON LIM
Two thumbs up: Minister for National Development Lawrence Wong (third from right) and Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam (fourth from right) declared the new Yishun Town Square open. The facility will allow Yishun residents more platforms for community activities and initiatives. (Photo: Brendon Lim) The new Yishun Town Square was officially opened by National Development Minister Lawrence Wong and Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam on May 19, 2018. The new square is meant to allow residents a place to gather, perform, meet and enjoy each other’s company. Located right beside the newly refurbished Northpoint City and Yishun Town Garden, the new square holds several food chain outlets and provides easy access to the MRT and bus interchange. This event was part of the Housing Development Board’s (HDB) Community Week 2018, which aims to promote the idea that homes are not just physical spaces but living communities where people come together. “This year, we brought the HDB Community Week to Yishun so that local residents can join in the activities planned for them throughout
16 The Republican Post
the week at the newly completed Yishun Town Square,” said Ms Shivvonne Wong, Deputy Director (Planning) for the Housing & Development Board’s Community Relations Group. “Through the exhibition, we hope that residents get to discover the new facilities completed under HDB’s Remaking our Heartland programme at Yishun, pick up some ideas to kickstart a community project, check out the volunteering opportunities, and experience what ‘life in the heartlands’ means through the lenses of enthusiastic photographers.” On display at the exhibition were different initiatives by groups in the community – such as the Friends of Our Heartlands volunteers. Among those who contributed were Republic Polytechnic’s Diploma in Mass Communication students. Working in collaboration with HDB, the finalyear students taking the Photojournalism module produced several multimedia photo pieces, some of which went on display at the exhibition. DMC graduate Shang Thong Yi, 21, was on hand to explain to the National Development Minister about the work his team did on Yishun. Thong Yi said: “Before this project, I used to think that Yishun and the other HDB towns were ordinary places where people just live, eat and work. But after this project, I realised that Yishun is actually very well planned for residents to have plenty of chances to bond and lead a vibrant heartland life.” He added: “From void decks, coffee shops, community gardens to culturally rich shopping districts like Chong Pang City, I think all these places have made residents find a space for themselves to unwind and chat with their families or meet new friends to build meaningful relationships as well as enjoy life in the towns.” Their work complemented the budding photographers who went home with prizes for their shots of different aspects of life in the HDB heartlands – from children playing to adults at the market. Nee Soon resident Chloe Wong, 28, enjoyed the festivities: She said: “We still should uphold the kampung spirit that Singaporeans have been building since the start, especially with the new estates, the kampung spirit has really died down quite a bit. So, it will be good if Singaporeans can come out of their houses and start taking part in community activities.’’ The exhibition at the Yishun Town Square will run till May 25 before roving to Our Tampines Hub on May 26 and 27.