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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) made a firm statement on Wednesday (21 May), rejecting foreign embassies’ involvement in stirring domestic opinions over global disputes. The comments followed a clash between the US and Chinese embassies in Singapore, centred on the South China Sea issue. MFA reiterated that diplomatic dialogue, not public social media posts, should handle such sensitive issues.

After being convicted of serious sexual offences, former Mediacorp actor Ian Fang and former Wah!Banana actor Lev Panfilov now face the possibility of losing their permanent residency (PR) status in Singapore. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has initiated a review, but no details have been released yet regarding the outcome.

Read more in our live blog below, including the latest local and international news and updates.

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Thu, 22 May 2025 at 10:00 am SGT

Joel Balbin

MFA slams US and China embassies stirring local tensions

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) rejects foreign embassies’ attempts to incite local reactions on international disputes after a video exchange between the US and Chinese embassies over the South China Sea, emphasising that such issues should be resolved diplomatically, not through social media. (Photo: US Chargé d’Affaires Casey Mace/X)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has firmly rejected foreign embassies' attempts to incite domestic reactions to international issues. The statement came after a heated exchange on social media between the United States and Chinese embassies in Singapore over the South China Sea dispute. The MFA highlighted that such complex matters should be addressed through proper diplomatic channels, not social media campaigns that could stir local sentiments.

China says it “owns” nearly the entire South China Sea. International law says otherwise. In 2016, the Hague tribunal ruled Beijing’s sweeping claims have no legal basis — yet construction, patrols, and coercion continue. From militarized reefs to “gray zone” tactics, this… pic.twitter.com/uHbUFs66PE

— Chargé d’Affaires Casey Mace (@USAmbSG) May 20, 2025

The controversy began when the US Embassy posted a video on Tuesday (20 May), likening China’s actions in the South China Sea to a neighbour improperly claiming shared spaces in Singapore’s public housing areas. The US Embassy’s message criticised China’s territorial claims, referencing a 2016 international tribunal ruling that found .

In response, the Chinese Embassy released a counter-video on Wednesday (21 May), accusing the U.S. of distorting facts and inciting regional instability. The Chinese Embassy further attacked US foreign policies, accusing Washington of undermining international law and stirring conflict. This exchange has intensified the longstanding diplomatic tensions surrounding the South China Sea.

MFA’s remarks underscore Singapore’s commitment to maintaining neutrality in geopolitical issues and ensuring that international disputes are resolved diplomatically. Singapore has consistently called for peace and stability in the South China Sea, while advocating for adherence to international law and upholding the principles of diplomacy.

Read on Singapore rejecting social media diplomacy here.

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Thu, 22 May 2025 at 10:00 am SGT

Joel Balbin

Convicted sex offenders Ian Fang, Lev Panfilov face PR review by ICA

Two high-profile PRs, Ian Fang (left) and Lev Panfilov, face permanent residency status reviews by the ICA after being convicted for sexual crimes in Singapore. (Photos: Malay Mail)

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has confirmed it is reviewing the permanent residency (PR) statuses of Ian Fang and Lev Panfilov, following their respective criminal convictions. The two former entertainers were sentenced to lengthy jail terms for serious sexual offences. ICA, however, has declined to provide additional details, stating that the review is still ongoing.

Fang, 35, a former Mediacorp actor, was convicted for sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl and sentenced to 40 months in prison. His PR status, which has been under scrutiny since his conviction, could potentially be revoked as a result of his crimes. Panfilov, 29, a former Wah!Banana actor, was sentenced to 11 years and six months in jail, in addition to 12 strokes of the cane, for raping and assaulting a woman he met on Tinder.

The reviews come as part of Singapore’s standard procedure for permanent residents who are convicted of serious crimes. According to ICA, convicted permanent residents may face the loss of their PR status, though decisions on such matters are handled on a case-by-case basis. The authority did not specify when or how the review will conclude.

Fang’s sentencing has shocked many, given his prominent role in Singapore’s entertainment scene. Panfilov’s case, on the other hand, drew widespread attention after a LinkedIn post by former Law Society vice-president Chia Boon Teck, which was widely criticised as victim-blaming. This public backlash led to calls for stronger condemnation of such actions and support for the victim.

Both Fang and Panfilov are expected to face significant consequences beyond their jail sentences. Fang is set to begin his sentence in June, while Panfilov intends to appeal his conviction and sentence.

Thu, 22 May 2025 at 11:04 am SGT

Joel Balbin

DBS CEO Tan Su Shan named one of the top 10 most powerful women in business

Tan Su Shan, CEO of DBS Bank, ranks 6th on Fortune’s 2025 list of the Most Powerful Women in Business, marking a dramatic rise from 89th place in 2024. (Photo: The Edge Singapore)

DBS Bank CEO Tan Su Shan has been named the 6th most powerful woman in business on Fortune magazine’s 2025 list. The Singaporean business leader, who assumed the role of CEO in March 2024, is the only Singaporean and one of just two Asian-based leaders in the top 10. Her ranking is a significant jump from 89th place the previous year, showcasing her growing influence on the global business stage.

Tan’s rise to the top 10 is a testament to her dynamic leadership at DBS, where she became the first woman to lead Southeast Asia’s largest bank. Her appointment was seen as a key moment in DBS's long-standing success, and her rapid advancement within the rankings underscores her transformative role in shaping the bank’s future.

Other business giants in the top 10 include Mary Barra of General Motors, who took the top spot, followed by Julie Sweet of Accenture, Jane Fraser of Citigroup, Lisa Su of AMD, and Ana Botin of Banco Santander. While Tan’s ascent is extraordinary, it also reflects the fierce competition, as only 20 female CEOs from the Fortune 500 made the list.

The 2025 list, which is now in its 28th year, recognises business leaders based on company size, health, innovation, influence, and career trajectory. Tan’s leadership at DBS, combined with her contributions to the global banking sector, played a key role in her high placement, positioning her among some of the world’s most influential women.

The prestigious list includes influential women across a wide range of industries including finance, tech, healthcare, and retail. As the business world navigates economic uncertainty, Tan Su Shan's rise signals not only her individual success but the increasing impact of women leaders on the global stage.