2003 in Singapore

none April 2013 September 2020 2003 The following lists events that happened during 2003 in Singapore. Incumbents President: S.R. Nathan Prime Minister: Goh Chok Tong Events January 1 January – The Goods and Services Tax is raised from 3% to 4%.Introduction of the Goods and Services Tax http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/c5594d45-4948-4080-a6fb-5175eb8d83c3 NLB 14 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20180927184245/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/c5594d45-4948-4080-a6fb-5175eb8d83c3 27 September 2018 live The Media Development Authority is formed to better regulate and encourage Singapore's media industry. 3 January – RSS Courageous got into a collision with ANL Indonesia, causing four fatalities. An investigation found that errors by the RSS Courageous crew contributed to the tragedy.Collision between RSS Courageous and ANL Indonesia http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1848_2011-10-18.html NLB 7 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190707081249/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1848_2011-10-18.html 7 July 2019 live 5 January - Ang Mo Kio Library is officially reopened after a one year renovation. 17 January – The Majestic is opened as a shopping mall after being renovated from a theatre. http://infopedia.nlb.gov.sg/articles/SIP_189_2004-12-24.html Singapore Infopedia: Majestic Theatre 5 August 2007 National Library Board dead https://web.archive.org/web/20070704181944/http://infopedia.nlb.gov.sg/articles/SIP_189_2004-12-24.html 4 July 2007 18 January – The East Loop of the Sengkang LRT line is opened,Free LRT service in Sengkang http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20030117-2.2.5.9 Today (retrieved from NLB) 13 October 2019 17 January 2003 as well as the Sengkang Bus Interchange which is Singapore's second air-conditioned bus interchange.https://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Speech%20By%20Mr%20Yeo%20Cheow%20Tong%20At%20The%20Official%20Opening%20Of%20Sengkang%20Bus%20Interchange%20on%2018%20January%202003/ Speech By Mr Yeo Cheow Tong At The Official Opening Of Sengkang Bus Interchange on 18 January 2003 MOT 11 August 2019 18 January 2003 2 September 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200902043959/https://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Speech%20By%20Mr%20Yeo%20Cheow%20Tong%20At%20The%20Official%20Opening%20Of%20Sengkang%20Bus%20Interchange%20on%2018%20January%202003/ dead 20 January – Stage 3 of the Circle MRT line is announced, which will travel through Serangoon and Bishan. It is slated for completion by 2008, but is eventually delayed to 2009.Circle Line Stage 3 http://www.lta.gov.sg/Menu_NewsRelease.htm LTA 15 July 2019 20 January 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20030526200150/http://www.lta.gov.sg/Menu_NewsRelease.htm 26 May 2003 21 January – FairPrice's new Fresh Food Distribution Centre is officially opened, enhancing freshness and safety of food.Official Opening of NTUC FairPrice's Fresh Food Distribution Centre http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003012103.htm NAS 27 May 2020 21 January 2003 27 January – The Land Transport Authority introduced a new licensing scheme for taxi operators, resulting in increased competition. Since then, more taxi operators joined in. February 15 February – The Ministry of Community Development and Sports announced plans to redevelop the National Stadium as part of a recommendation from a study. The proposed S$650m facility will have a 55,000-capacity stadium, a commercial district and indoor halls, which is targeted for completion by 2009 (though work only started in 2010).National Stadium to make way for sports centre http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes20030216-1.2.3 22 August 2019 The Straits Times (retrieved from NLB) 16 February 2003Tan Yo-Hinn Build a sports culture (Page 38) https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Page/today20030217-1.1.38 26 October 2019 Today (retrieved from NLB) 17 February 2003 In addition, new rules are released to increase transparency in National Sports Associations, taking effect from 1 January 2004.Code unveiled https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20030217-1.2.40.9 26 October 2019 Today (retrieved from NLB) 17 February 2003Launch of the Code of Governance for National Sports Associations http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/speeches/view-html?filename=2003021502.htm NAS 22 August 2019 15 February 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20161104204241/http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/speeches/view-html?filename=2003021502.htm 4 November 2016 17 February – The World Trade Centre Retail reopens as HarbourFront Centre.https://www.mapletree.com.sg/en/Media/News/2003/Feb/17022003-WTCRetailre-Opens.aspx World Trade Centre Retail Re-Opens With New Look and Name Mapletree 29 July 2019 17 February 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20190729065037/https://www.mapletree.com.sg/en/Media/News/2003/Feb/17022003-WTCRetailre-Opens.aspx 29 July 2019 livehttp://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/today20030217-1.2.11.3.aspx WTC is now HarbourFront Centre Tor Ching Li 17 February 2003 Today (retrieved from NLB) 5 15 March 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160315213153/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/today20030217-1.2.11.3.aspx 15 March 2016 live 20 February – Fusionopolis is launched as a place to fuse the infocomm, media and engineering sectors together.https://www.mci.gov.sg/pressroom/news-and-stories/pressroom/2003/2/speech-by-mr-david-t-e-lim-at-the-launch-of-fusionpolis-at-onenorth-ayer-rajah-avenue Speech by Mr David T E Lim at the Launch of Fusionpolis at One-North, Ayer Rajah Avenue MITA (now MCI) 5 August 2019 20 February 2003 21 February – NEWater is launched in Singapore.http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/speeches/view-html?filename=2003022102.htm Official Launch of NEWater nas.gov.sg 2019-05-01 https://web.archive.org/web/20180907110743/http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/speeches/view-html?filename=2003022102.htm 7 September 2018 live March 1 March to 16 July – An outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) occurs in Singapore.Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak, 2003 http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1529_2009-06-03.html NLB 15 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190630091414/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1529_2009-06-03.html 30 June 2019 live Sars in Singapore: Timeline https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/sars-in-singapore-timeline 23 August 2019 The Straits Times 16 March 2013 1 March – The first SARS patient is warded in Tan Tock Seng Hospital, after 3 women fell ill from a visit to Hong Kong. 15 March – The term SARS is coined by the WHO. As a result, the Ministry of Health forms a task force to tackle SARS. On that day, 16 cases are confirmed. 16 March – Guidelines are issued to screen emergency department patients for fever and travel history to SARS-affected areas, as well as on infection-control. 22 March – TTSH is designated the SARS hospital. The SARS hotline is set up, with the number of cases increasing to 44. 24 March – Singapore invokes the Infectious Diseases Act. As a result, about 740 people are placed on Home Quarantine Orders for 10 days. 25 March – The first SARS death happens. 26 March – A second person dies due to SARS. The Ministry of Education (MOE) and Ministry of Health (MOH) will close all primary schools, secondary schools, junior colleges and centralised institutes due to the SARS outbreak from 27 March to 6 April. Due to this, the school term will be extended into the holidays. Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) are unaffected by this closure of schools. In addition, childcare centres, special education schools, madrasahs, playgroups and tuition classes will also close during this period with pre-school centres and student care centres advised to close. As a result, this makes it the first time since Singapore's independence that schools are closed.Closure of schools: Joint Press Release by MOE and MOH http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003032606.htm NAS 15 January 2020 26 March 2003 27 March – Patients who die of SARS must be cremated within 24 hours. 29 March – Temperature checks are introduced for all passengers arriving into Singapore through Changi Airport. 5 April – A SARS outbreak occurs at Singapore General Hospital. MOE and MOH extend school closures with reopening of schools in stages, starting from junior colleges and centralised institutes on 9 April, secondary schools on 14 April and finally primary schools on 16 April. Pre-school centres and kindergartens will be allowed to reopen from 16 April.Phased Reopening of Schools http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003040501.htm NAS 15 January 2020 5 April 2003 6 April – A ministerial committee to tackle SARS is formed. 7 April – TTSH doctor Ong Hok Su becomes the first hospital worker to die from SARS. In addition, another patient dies from SARS. 11 April – The new Infrared Fever Sensing System (IFSS) is introduced in Changi Airport to screen travellers arriving into Singapore. Originally intended for military use, the system is jointly developed by Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA) and ST Electronics. 4 more IFSS systems will be deployed by 18 April.Combating SARS with new Infrared Fever Sensing System https://www.dsta.gov.sg/latest-news/news-releases/news-releases-2003/combating-sars-with-new-infrared-fever-sensing-system DSTA 23 August 2019 15 April 2003 20 April – After several SARS cases discovered, the Pasir Panjang Vegetable Wholesale Market (PPWC) is ordered to close until 29 April.Press Statement by Minister for National Development Mr Mah Bow Tan at Press Conference on 20 April 2003 http://www.mnd.gov.sg/newsroom/newsreleases/news200403.htm MND 23 August 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20050306210522/http://www.mnd.gov.sg/newsroom/newsreleases/news200403.htm 6 March 2005 20 April 2003 dead 22 April – SGH surgeon Alexandre Chao dies from SARS. 23 April – All eight IFSS systems are in operation across various checkpoints, including Woodlands Checkpoint and Tuas Checkpoint.Combating SARS with Infrared Fever Sensing System https://www.dsta.gov.sg/latest-news/news-releases/news-releases-2003/combating-sars-with-infrared-fever-sensing-system DSTA 23 August 2019 23 April 2003 28 April – PPWC's closure is extended until 5 May after the extension of Home Quarantine Orders for tenants and workers there.Press Statement by the Ministry of National Development on the Pasir Panjang Wholesale Centre http://www.mnd.gov.sg/newsroom/newsreleases/news280403.htm MND 23 August 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20050306195832/http://www.mnd.gov.sg/newsroom/newsreleases/news280403.htm 6 March 2005 28 April 2003 dead 29 April – Temperature checks are introduced for all passengers arriving and departing Singapore by sea from 7pm. Tighter screening procedures are also introduced for all cargo and passenger vessels to contain SARS.Singapore Introduces 100% Temperature Checks for All Passengers Departing and Arriving By Sea https://www.mpa.gov.sg/web/portal/home/media-centre/news-releases/detail/32ce0bf3-ca6e-4e0a-8132-5087dfb9cec8 MPA 23 August 2019 29 April 2003 23 August 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190823105250/https://www.mpa.gov.sg/web/portal/home/media-centre/news-releases/detail/32ce0bf3-ca6e-4e0a-8132-5087dfb9cec8 dead 11 May – Nurse Hamidah Ismail dies on Mother's Day.Nurse loses battle with SARS on Mothers Day https://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2003/05/13/nurse-loses-battle-with-sars-on-mothers-day/ The Star 16 July 2019 13 May 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20190716192514/https://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2003/05/13/nurse-loses-battle-with-sars-on-mothers-day/ 16 July 2019 live 18 May – Last SARS patient detected. 21 May – The SARS Channel is launched in partnership with MediaCorp, SPH MediaWorks and StarHub.Launch of the SARS Channel http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003052101.htm NAS 3 March 2020 21 May 2003Launch of Singapore's SARS Channel https://www.starhub.com/about-us/newsroom/2003/may/21052003_launchofsingaporessarschannel.html StarHub 23 August 2019 21 May 2003 The channel shows SARS-related programming, as well as news and infomercials on SARS, broadcasting until 9 July, after all countries are taken off the SARS list.SARS Channel To Cease Transmission https://www.starhub.com/about-us/newsroom/2003/july/07072003_sarschanneltoceasetransmission.html StarHub 23 August 2019 7 July 2003 30 May – Singapore is officially declared SARS-free by the World Health Organization, taking effect the following day.Update 70 – Singapore removed from list of areas with local SARS transmission https://www.who.int/csr/don/2003_05_30a/en/ https://web.archive.org/web/20030801135420/http://www.who.int/csr/don/2003_05_30a/en/ dead 1 August 2003 World Health Organization 30 January 2020 30 May 2003 16 July – SARS is eradicated from Singapore. By the time the outbreak ended, a total of 238 people are infected with 33 dead. 1 March – Online identification-based service, SingPass is launched. 20 March – The Airport Logistics Park is officially opened.https://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Speech%20By%20Mr%20Yeo%20Cheow%20Tong%20At%20The%20Official%20Opening%20Of%20The%20Airport%20Logistics%20Park%20Of%20Singapore%20(ALPS)%20on%2020%20March%202003/ Official Opening of the Airport Logistics Park of Singapore (ALPS) MOT 2 July 2019 20 March 2003 August 2026 InternetArchiveBot 21 March – Compressed natural gas (CNG) taxis are launched to encourage vehicles to run on cleaner fuels.http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003032102.htm Flag-Off Ceremony for Toyota Compressed Natural Gas Taxis NAS 3 March 2020 21 March 2003 24 March – Downer EDI Group (an Australian firm) announced the acquisition of CPG Corporation from Temasek Holdings, which is completed on 1 April.Sale of CPG Corporation Pte Ltd to Downer EDI Ltd https://www.temasek.com.sg/en/news-and-views/news-room/news/2003/sale-of-cpg-corporation-pte-ltd-to-downer-edi-ltd.html 20 September 2019 Temasek Holdings 24 March 2003Downer EDI to buy CPG from Temasek https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2003/03/25/downer-edi-to-buy--cpg-from-temasek/ 16 September 2019 The Star 25 March 2003 29 March – ComfortDelGro is formed from the merger of land transport companies Comfort Group and DelGro Corporation, first announced on 21 November 2002. Since then, ComfortDelGro Corporation has become a multinational transport operator.Comfort, DelGro merger to create $1b company http://ir.zaobao.com/comfortdelgro/news/comfort221102_e.html The Business Times (Zaobao) 20 July 2019 22 November 2002 https://web.archive.org/web/20101209084701/http://ir.zaobao.com/comfortdelgro/news/comfort221102_e.html 9 December 2010 live Corporate Profile https://www.comfortdelgro.com/web/guest/corporate-profile ComfortDelGro 20 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190720131730/https://www.comfortdelgro.com/web/guest/corporate-profile 20 July 2019 live 31 March – Daimaru shuts its last stores in Singapore.Sun begins to set on Daimaru http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20030313-2.2.11.1 22 August 2019 Today (retrieved from NLB) 13 March 2003 April 1 April – The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority is formed to tackle new security threats, leading to the formation of Singapore Customs. As a result, the Registry of Societies and Registry of Political Donations will transfer to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Elections Department respectively.Formation of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003033103.htm 22 June 2020 NAS 1 April 2003 Meidi-Ya opens in Liang Court, taking over what used to be a Daimaru store.Sun begins to set on Daimaru http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20030313-2.2.11.1 22 August 2019 Today (retrieved from NLB) 13 March 2003 28 April – The last traces of the Overseas Union Bank (OUB) name will disappear by end-2003 as it merged into United Overseas Bank (UOB).http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1787_2011-02-24.html Overseas Union Bank (OUB) NLB 2019-06-07 https://web.archive.org/web/20190607010234/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1787_2011-02-24.html 7 June 2019 liveLast traces of OUB name go with OUT http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/biztimes20030429-1.2.15.6 The Business Times 20 August 2019 28 April 2003 May 6 May – Singapore and United States sign the United States-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (USS-FTA).https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2003/05/20030506-11.html President Signed U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov 15 June 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20171025221230/https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2003/05/20030506-11.html 25 October 2017 live 26 May – The Action Community for Entrepreneurship (ACE) is launched to help businesses thrive.Press Conference on the launch of Action Community for Entrepreneurship (ACE) http://www.ace.org.sg/News/index.htm Action Community for Entrepreneurship 22 August 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20030908111131/http://www.ace.org.sg/News/index.htm 8 September 2003 26 May 2003 dead June thumb|300px|The North East MRT line 9 June – The Declaration of Religious Harmony is unveiled.More than words, a S'pore way of life http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes20030610-1.2.2 The Straits Times (retrieved from NLB) 25 September 2019 10 June 2003 20 June – The North East MRT line opens, the first line operated by SBS Transit. Stretching about 20 km miles in long, the line is the world's first fully automated underground line.Opening Date for the North East Line http://app.internet.gov.sg/scripts/lta/3_press_content.asp?start=770 LTA 6 September 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20030811092209/http://app.internet.gov.sg/scripts/lta/3_press_content.asp?start=770 11 August 2003 7 June 2003 dead It's a smooth ride on NEL – mostly http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes20030621-1.2.2 The Straits Times (retrieved from NLB) 6 September 2019 21 June 2003 July 1 July – The then HDB Corporation (renamed to Surbana and now Surbana Jurong) is formed from a corporatisation.http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003022602.htm Restructuring of HDB NAS 27 May 2020 26 February 2003 7 July – The Singapore civil service now allows gay employees to be employed, as revealed in a Time magazine interview.Quietly, Singapore lifts its ban on hiring gays https://www.nytimes.com/2003/07/05/news/quietly-singapore-lifts-its-ban-on-hiring-gays.html The New York Times 7 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190707071353/https://www.nytimes.com/2003/07/05/news/quietly-singapore-lifts-its-ban-on-hiring-gays.html 7 July 2019 live 5 July 2003 Arnold Wayne 8 July – The Iranian twins are separated, but the operation takes a drastic turn. Both of them eventually passed on.World's first separation of adult Siamese twins in Singapore http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_411_2005-01-27.html NLB 11 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190601195614/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_411_2005-01-27.html 1 June 2019 live 14 July – Bungee jumping will be allowed after being turned down years back on grounds of safety. It is hoped this will encourage a more risk-taking society.http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/asiapcf/southeast/07/13/singapore.bungee/ Singapore pushes the boundaries CNN 2019-06-30 https://web.archive.org/web/20190630112031/http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/asiapcf/southeast/07/13/singapore.bungee/ 30 June 2019 live 22 July – A pair of South Korean twins are successfully separated.Success: Korean Twins Separated https://www.cbsnews.com/news/success-korean-twins-separated/ CBS News 22 July 2003 11 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190711031516/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/success-korean-twins-separated/ 11 July 2019 live 24 July – Singapore and Malaysia jointly submit to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) a dispute concerning sovereignty over Pedra Branca (Pulau Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks and South Ledge). August 1 August – DesignSingapore Council is launched to spearhead design in Singapore. Bar-top dancing is legalised, and some bars are allowed to operate 24/7. 4 August – The Sumatra-Singapore gas pipeline is inaugurated.Speech by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong, at the Inauguration Ceremony of the Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline from Grissik, Indonesia to Sakra, Singapore, 04 August 2003, 1.15 pm (Singapore time) https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003080402.htm 2022-10-28 www.nas.gov.sg 6 August – Creative Technology announced that they will progressively launch 90 new products.90 new Creative products to hit shelves http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes20030807.2.9.6 31 July 2019 The Straits Times (retrieved from NLB) 7 August 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20190731044119/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes20030807.2.9.6 31 July 2019 live 25 August – The National Volunteer Centre is renamed to the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre.Volunteerism increasing, now for philanthropy http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20030826-1.2.11.2 31 July 2019 Today (retrieved from NLB) 26 August 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20190731044122/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20030826-1.2.11.2 31 July 2019 live September 8 September – The Ministry of Health announced that a laboratory technician caught SARS, after a big outbreak earlier in March. It is later learnt that it is caused by a mix-up in viruses for research.Singapore man confirmed with SARS http://edition.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/asiapcf/southeast/09/09/singapore.sars/ 9 August 2019 CNN 9 September 2003 17 September – The Singapore Workforce Development Agency is formed to help workers find jobs, especially during the ongoing economic downturn.A stat board just for workers http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes20030917-1.2.65.4.1 The Straits Times 17 September 2003 6 June 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190606153813/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes20030917-1.2.65.4.1 6 June 2019 live 25 September – BreadTalk launches the first Din Tai Fung restaurant in The Paragon.27 September 2003 Best of Taiwan in a yummy parcel from BreadTalk https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20030927-1.2.27.7.3 2022-12-02 The Straits Times 34 en-SG NewspaperSG October thumb|300px|right|Biopolis 1 October – In view of economic restructuring, CPF rates were cut by 3 percentage points.CPF Contribution and Allocation Rates from 1 October 2003 to 31 December 2003 https://www.cpf.gov.sg/Assets/employers/Documents/CPFContributionandAllocationRatesfrom1Oct2003.pdf CPF 14 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190714181644/https://www.cpf.gov.sg/Assets/employers/Documents/CPFContributionandAllocationRatesfrom1Oct2003.pdf 14 July 2019 live Changing CPF rates over the years https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/changing-cpf-rates-over-the-years 14 July 2019 The Straits Times 12 February 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20190714181639/https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/changing-cpf-rates-over-the-years 14 July 2019 live 10 October – The Raffles Terrace is officially opened.Official Opening of Raffles Terrace at Fort Canning Park http://www.mnd.gov.sg/newsroom/speeches/speeches_snd2003_101003.htm MND 23 August 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20100507140130/http://www.mnd.gov.sg/newsroom/speeches/speeches_snd2003_101003.htm 7 May 2010 10 October 2003 dead 16 October – MoneySENSE is launched to educate Singaporeans on financial literacy.Singapore unveils "MoneySENSE" – A National Financial Education Programme for Consumers https://www.mas.gov.sg/news/media-releases/2003/singapore-unveils-moneysense MAS 11 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190711155552/https://www.mas.gov.sg/news/media-releases/2003/singapore-unveils-moneysense 11 July 2019 live 20 October – The Ministry of Health launched SingaporeMedicine to promote Singapore as a leading medical hub.http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/speeches/view-html?filename=2003102098.htm Speech By AG Minister Khaw Boon Wan, At The Launch Of SingaporeMedicine, 20 October 2003, 4.00 pm NAS 14 November 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20181007073800/http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/speeches/view-html?filename=2003102098.htm 7 October 2018 live 29 October – Biopolis is opened as a research hub.Biopolis heralds next phase of Singapore's biomedical sciences development https://www.a-star.edu.sg/News-and-Events/News/Press-Releases/ID/328 A*STAR 15 July 2019 29 October 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20190715160839/https://www.a-star.edu.sg/News-and-Events/News/Press-Releases/ID/328 15 July 2019 live Keynote Address by Deputy Prime Minister Tony Tan, at the Launch of Biopolis, Singapore, 29 October 2003, 7.00 pm https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2003102904.htm 2022-10-28 www.nas.gov.sg 31 October – The Queenstown Community Library is reopened after upgrading works.Queenstown Community Library http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_934_2004-12-13.html NLB 10 August 2019 November 10 November – Amendments to the Computer Misuse Act are passed to protect against potential cyberattacks that could disrupt critical information infrastructure (CIIs) on the basis of national security, but not before addressing concerns on privacy and liberties. The new law also compounds certain offences.Tan Hui Leng Sharper cyber eye http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20031111-2.2.2.3 Today 7 September 2019 11 November 2003 14 November – Dairy Farm will acquire Delhaize's stake in Shop N Save, which is also owned by QAF Limited.Delhaize Group sells interest in Singapore retailer Shop N Save https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2003/11/14/302942/48266/en/Delhaize-Group-sells-interest-in-Singapore-retailer-Shop-N-Save.html Globe Newswire 23 August 2019 14 November 2003 December 12 December – Stages 4 and 5 of the Circle MRT line are unveiled, connecting western Singapore from Bishan to HarbourFront. It is slated for completion in 2010, but later delayed to 2011.Completing the Circle via Holland V http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20031213-1.2.3 Today (retrieved from NLB) 6 September 2019 13 December 2003News 5 Tonight (12 December 2003) http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/audiovisual_records/record-details/57de1bd1-1164-11e3-83d5-0050568939ad MediaCorp (retrieved from NAS) 19 July 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190719031728/http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/audiovisual_records/record-details/57de1bd1-1164-11e3-83d5-0050568939ad 19 July 2019 live 13 December – 10-year-old Megan Zheng becomes the first Singaporean actress to win the Taipei Film Festival Golden Horse Award for Best New Performer (co-recipient) with her role in Jack Neo's movie Homerun. 30 December – The Kaki Bukit Viaduct opens to traffic.Opening of a New Vehicular Viaduct To Provide a More Direct Route between Tampines and Kaki Bukit http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=936 LTA 30 August 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20071008011107/http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=936 8 October 2007 27 December 2003 31 December – Passion 99.5FM shuts down after a lack of funding. Date unknown A&W pulls out of Singapore,Raymond Jose Bye bye, Coney http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/today20030513-1.2.11.5 Today (retrieved from NLB) 6 September 2019 13 May 2003 only returning in 2019 at Jewel Changi Airport. Deaths 9 January – Thabun Pranee, murder victim in the Chai Chee rape and murder (b. 1977).12 January 2003 Malaysian held over Thai woman's murder https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2003/01/12/malaysian-held-over-thai-womans-murder 2024-05-17 The Star en 23 January – John Ede, former Progressive Party legislative assemblyman for Tanglin Constituency (b. 1913).Mandai Orchid Gardens https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/article-detail?cmsuuid=e78ee7f1-dffd-4635-beb1-6388bdac466f 2025-05-17 www.nlb.gov.sg24 January 2003 Obituary https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20030124-1.2.60.10.1?qt=ede&q=%22Ede%22 22 September 2026 NewspaperSG 28 January – Lam Chit Lee, founding Chairman of the Singapore Ex- political Detainees' Association and former Barisan Sosialis candidate for Telok Ayer Constituency in the 1963 General Election (b. 1931).29 January 2003 Obituary https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20030129-1.2.42.10.10?qt=%22lam%20chit%20lee%22&q=%22Lam%20Chit%20Lee%22 1 September 2026 NewspaperSG30 January 2003 前政治拘留人士协会首任主席 蓝炽理病逝 https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/lhzb20030130-1.2.12.8?qt=%22%E8%93%9D%20%E7%82%BD%20%E7%90%86%22&q=%22%E8%93%9D%E7%82%BD%E7%90%86%22 1 September 2026 NewspaperSG 10 March – Diana Teo Siew Peng, murder victim of Harith Gary Lee (b. 1970).27 March 2003 MURDER ACCUSED FACES MORE CHARGES The Straits Times NewspaperSG 7 April – Ong Hok Su, TTSH doctor (b. 1976).Sars in Singapore: Timeline https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/sars-in-singapore-timeline 23 August 2019 The Straits Times 16 March 2013 17 April – Ong Poh Lim, former badminton player (b. 1923).Ong Poh Lim http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1389_2010-06-02.html NLB 29 October 2019 22 April – Alexandre Chao, SGH vascular surgeon (b. 1965).Remembering S'pore's Sars heroes: Gone but never forgotten https://www.asiaone.com/health/remembering-spores-sars-heroes-gone-never-forgotten 16 July 2019 Asiaone https://web.archive.org/web/20190716192518/https://www.asiaone.com/health/remembering-spores-sars-heroes-gone-never-forgotten 16 July 2019 live 11 May – Hamidah Ismail, nurse (b. 1958).Nurse loses battle with SARS on Mothers Day https://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2003/05/13/nurse-loses-battle-with-sars-on-mothers-day/ The Star 16 July 2019 13 May 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20190716192514/https://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2003/05/13/nurse-loses-battle-with-sars-on-mothers-day/ 16 July 2019 live 12 June – Wee Mon Cheng, former Ambassador of Singapore to Japan (b. 1913).Singapore National Library Board Portrait of Mr. Wee Mon Cheng, Ambassador of Singapore to Japan, 1970s https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/image-detail?cmsuuid=e7f905d2-e641-47bf-b74b-55f0dde26260 2025-05-31 www.nlb.gov.sg en5 July 2003 Ex-diplomat dies in Hong Kong https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20030705-1.2.43.12?qt=%22wee%20mon%20cheng%22&q=%22Wee%20Mon%20Cheng%22 22 September 2026 NewspaperSG 13 June – Tan Teck Khim, former Commissioner of Police (b. 1925).14 June 2003 Former Top Cop Dies https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/stoverseas20030614-1.2.3.1?qt=%22tan%20teck%20khim%22&q=%22Tan%20Teck%20Khim%22 22 September 2026 NewspaperSG 28 June – Chi Tue Tiong, murder victim of Zailani bin Ahmad and Rachel (b. 1935).13 September 2004 [2004] SGHC 202 https://www.elitigation.sg/gdviewer/s/2004_SGHC_202 2024-05-17 Supreme Court Judgements 26 November – Sidney Woodhull, former Barisan Sosialis politician and lawyer (b. 1932).2003-11-29 Ex-PAP leader Woodhull dies at 71 https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2003/11/29/expap-leader-woodhull-dies-at-71/ 2025-05-17 The Star en28 November 2003 Ex-Barisan leader Woodhull dies, 71 https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20031128-1.2.39.10?qt=woodhull&q=%22Woodhull%22 22 September 2026 NewspaperSG Tan Tarn How Lee Rebecca Unknown date Jonnel Pabuyon Pinera, nurse at Orange Valley Nursing Home. Kiew Miyaw Tan, SGH attendant. References 2003 in Category:Years of the 21st century in Singapore Category:2000s in Singapore Singapore Singapore