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What industry does your organization fall within, what best describes the key intent of the project that your organisation is seeking funding for, is your organisation a singapore-registered legal entity, is your organisation an association, is the project able to achieve one or more of the following outcome.

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Who will be the main target audience of your project, is your project innovative and/or a new event in singapore with tourism potential, what best describes your project, does the event have proven track records in singapore or overseas, and/or growth in tourism value such as growing foreign visitorship, and/or enhancement of precinct vibrancy etc, does the project have a clear tourism focus (e.g. tourism-related trainings, tourism companies taking on capability development initiatives or technology companies creating technology products and services for the tourism businesses), what best describes your market feasibility study project.

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CCCS administers the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act  (“ CPFTA ”) and Competition Act .

Before making a complaint, please note the following:

CCCS does not provide legal advice nor views on hypothetical scenarios.

As the administering agency of the CPFTA and Competition Act, it is not appropriate for CCCS to advise you on the application of the law. You may wish to seek your own legal advice.

If the subject matter of your complaint does not fall within the scope of the prohibitions under the Competition Act, the CPFTA, or CCCS does not have the powers to conduct an investigation into the subject matter of your complaint, we may redirect you to the relevant government agencies. Please note that for the matters listed below, you may wish to approach the relevant authorities:

You may also find some of the answers to your questions in the Frequently Asked Questions page.

2. Consumer Protection Matters

CCCS does not assist consumers in disputes with suppliers nor in obtaining redress. Under the CPFTA , the Consumers Association of Singapore (“ CASE ”) and Singapore Tourism Board (“ STB ”) are the first points of contact for consumer complaints. CASE will assist aggrieved consumers to obtain redress, and in some cases, compensation through negotiation and/or mediation. For assistance, please approach CASE at 6277 5100 or visit www.case.org.sg .

• For more information on lodging a complaint to CASE click here  and refer to Question 7;
• For more information on transactions which are excluded under the CPFTA, refer to Question 3  here ; and
• For suppliers or employees who wish to whistle-blow or provide evidence of an unfair practice by a supplier, refer to Question 10  here .

If you are a supplier and have issue with another supplier, you may wish to seek your own legal advice or bring your case to the Small Claims Tribunal (“ SCT ”). More information on bringing a case to the SCT can be found here .

3. Competition Matters

If you suspect that any business, company or organisation is engaged in anti-competitive conduct that infringes the Competition Act, please file a complaint with CCCS.

Complaints can be lodged if you believe there has been a breach of any of the following prohibitions under the Competition Act:

• Anti-competitive agreements, decisions or concerted practices (e.g. price fixing, bid rigging, market sharing, output limitation, etc)
• Abuse of a dominant position (e.g. predatory pricing, tying, refusal to supply, etc); or
• Mergers and acquisitions that substantially lessen competition (e.g. two close competitors with significant market shares merged, etc)

Complaints may not be pursued if they fall within the specific exclusions, for which CCCS has no powers to conduct an investigation. For more information on exclusions from the Competition Act, please click here .

4. Filing a Complaint

To file a complaint, you should have the following information ready:

• Information about you and the organisation you represent (if applicable);
• Information about the party or parties involved;
• A brief description of the unfair practice, agreement, abusive conduct or merger that you are complaining about;
• Any other relevant information and supporting documents.

We will contact you by email and/or telephone in five (5) working days, and we will keep you posted on the outcome of your complaint.

Last Updated on 18 December 2023

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Complaint resolution process

• 1 CONSULTATION
• 2 ASSISTED SCHEME OR FILED SCHEME
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Consultation

After submitting an online complaint, our Officers will assess your situation and advise you on the appropriate next steps.

You would then typically be recommended the following options:

Assisted Scheme*

File a case*, resolving your complaint via case.

After the initial consultation, you can choose to be on our assisted case scheme or file a case. Both may incur a small fee.

You would then typically be recommended the following resolution method(s):

Assisted Scheme

To file a case

Mediation is the next step in the dispute resolution process. Upon reaching a deadlock with the retailer, our Officers will propose that parties attend mediation. The mediation service serves as a speedy process for parties to negotiate, compromise and amicably resolve a dispute.

CASE mediators are professionals and they are trained in mediation. There are typically two mediators in one session and they will remain neutral and not take sides in the conflict.

Our mediation service has a success rate of approximately 70%, reaching win-win solutions for both parties. It is a more affordable option compared to litigation and mediation can be arranged within a short period. Each settlement signed is legally binding in court.

Submit a Complaint - Frequently Asked Questions

What are the documents required before making a complaint with case, you should bring along the following:.

• Identity Card/Work Permit/Employment Pass/Student Pass/Dependent Pass
• All documents relevant to your dispute, including but not limited to:

Any other supporting documents deemed necessary for your dispute

• Proof of purchase/receipts/invoices
• Contract signed with the retailer, if any
• Any other supporting documents

Besides CASE, what other avenues do I have to resolve my complaints?

• Small Claims Tribunals The Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) of the State Courts resolve specific types of low-value disputes between consumers and suppliers. Click here for more information on the SCT
• Singapore Tourism Board Tourists who wish to flag inappropriate retailer behaviour can do so by contacting the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Click here for more information on the STB

If CASE is a non-profit organisation, why do consumers have to pay for CASE to handle complaints?

I’m a tourist, what should i do if i have a dispute with a retailer.

Tourists who wish to flag inappropriate retailer behaviour can do so by calling the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) at 1800-736-2000 from Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays), between 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily or emailing STB at

[email protected] .

Alternatively, you may call us at 6277 5100 to make an appointment to meet our CASE officers on Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the following documents.

• Original invoice/receipt of your purchase
• Any other supporting documents (such as signed agreement and credit card bill)

Our office is located at:

170 Ghim Moh Road #05-01 Ulu Pandan Community Building Singapore 279621

What are the complaints that CASE can assist with?

CASE can assist with disputes involving an individual making a purchase of goods or services for personal/domestic use with a registered company in Singapore (Consumer to business disputes – C2B).

What are the complaints that CASE cannot assist with?

Business-to-business disputes, landlord and tenant claims, shares, stocks, commodities and investments matters, traffic accident claims, claims against overseas companies.

Please choose a category.

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Singapore Tourism Board acts on Traveller Complaints

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is to take tougher actions against errant retailers who repeatedly…

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is to take tougher actions against errant retailers who repeatedly subject tourists to their unethical retail practices. STB has received over 800 complaints from the 8 million tourists Singapore received last year, of which more than 50% were retail-related, with a high proportion of cases coming from the electronic goods sector. As a ratio to the number of visitors, the number of complaints received is not large, but STB regards every complaint received as one case too many.

Since June 2003, letters from the STB have been sent to over 50 retail establishments that have been complained against by tourists, to inform them of possible blacklisting. The first `blacklist` will be carried in the October issues of publications such as The Real Destination Singapore brochure and the Official Map of Singapore . STB will also publish the blacklist monthly on its website, www.visitsingapore.com. Information on errant retailers will also be made available on a monthly basis at the Singapore Visitors Centres and through the Touristline at 1800-736 2000.

STB has taken over the responsibility of the handling of complaints against retailers by tourists from the Retail Promotion Centre since May 2003, and has been representing tourists at the Small Claims Tribunals. A special hotline number, 1800-736 3366, has been set up recently to assist tourists who have had bad experiences during their stay in Singapore.

Elaborating on STB`s decision to take a tougher stand against errant retailers, Mr Lim Neo Chian , Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive of the STB said: We are very committed to ensuring visitors have a memorable stay in Singapore and are serious about addressing the problem of errant retailers. Each year, the Board spends millions of dollars encouraging and attracting people from around the world to visit Singapore for amongst other things, the warmth and friendliness of Singaporeans. Our reputation as a fun and friendly city-state is at stake if errant retailers are allowed to continue unethical retail practices; causing grievance to visitors.

Recently, the Board went as far as assisting an Australian tourist to lodge a civil suit against the House of Cameras and Electronics Pte Ltd, a retailer located at Lucky Plaza Shopping Centre. STB has received more than 40 complaints against this shop in 2002 and over 15 complaints from January to August 2003.

STB is also looking forward to the proposed Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, which aims to make it easier for consumers, including tourists, to obtain civil remedies should they encounter unethical practices by retailers.

In addition to the new measures which aim at reducing the number of errant retailers, the Board will also assist tourists in making more informed decisions when shopping for electrical and electronic products among other consumer goods in Singapore. A Marketing and Tourist-education campaign will be launched in October 2003 by STB`s Tourism Shopping division. The campaign will focus on disseminating information such as shopping tips and recommended shopping destinations for electrical and electronic goods.

Organisations such as the Sim Lim Square Traders` Association, which counts tourists as a key consumer group for electronic goods sold by its member retailers, will also be launching a Star Retailers Programme in October 2003 to encourage good retail practices. Member retailers will offer a money-back guarantee (terms and conditions may apply) for any product sold above certain recommended retail prices. Shoppers can pick up lists detailing participating retailers, errant retailers and other information at the Sim Lim Square information counter.

Apart from implementing tougher measures against errant retailers, we also want to reward retailers who demonstrate good retail practices. This is in line with STB`s initiatives, the Art of Service and the Tourism Awards, to encourage strong work ethics in the tourism workforce and to raise the overall service quality of the industry. Working closely with the industry, we are confident that with these measures and incentive programmes will significantly reduce the in place, there will be a significant decline in the total number of complaints against retailers within a year and enhance Singapore`s position as a choice shopping destination in the region. said Mr Lim.

Theodore Koumelis

Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.

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11 things to know before visiting Singapore

Mar 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan for your trip to Singapore with these things you should know and insider tips © Jakub Zajic / Getty Images

Singapore has a well-cultivated image of being a safe country .

Too safe perhaps for some, who balk at its infamously strict rules and fines for flouting them, and find the gleaming modern city too sanitized for their liking. Others appreciate the clean streets and manicured gardens amidst the tall buildings along with the intriguing mix of people that make up Singapore’s multifaceted culture.

As a Singaporean who’s lived here all her life (and who has always had to explain the country to fellow travelers in foreign hostel common rooms) here’s what you need to know about Singapore, its cultural landscape, and its local customs and quirks, to help you plan your trip to the Little Red Dot.

1. Singapore is small, but with lots to see and do

Compact Singapore takes less than an hour to drive from end to end but there’s a lot packed into this small country. For a first-time visitor, three to four days is usually sufficient to see the main highlights and get a feel of the top things to do in Singapore . 

If you’re really short on time, plan a layover with at least 5.5 hours and you can join one of three free transit tours organized by the excellent Changi Airport for a quick taster of what the country has to offer.

2. Pack for the tropics

Practically located on the equator, expect hot tropical weather ranging from 25 to 35ºC (77 to 95ºF) every single day in Singapore. A small umbrella is essential in case of scorching rays or sudden downpours.

What can be tough for those used to temperate climates is Singapore’s high humidity – 60 to 90% on average throughout the year, so be prepared to sweat it out. Pack light materials or bring a small fan or hankie around with you. Anyone basking under the afternoon sun who’s not on the beach is definitely a tourist – be sure to slap on the sunblock!

Funnily enough, it tends to be a lot colder indoors than outdoors because shopping malls and central cooling overcompensate for the heat.

A scarf or a light jacket will keep you warm, offer extra sun protection and are the perfect cover-up if you plan to visit religious buildings.

3. Singapore is an independent country 

With a majority Chinese population, some people mistakenly assume that Singapore is a part of China, which is not the case. Most Chinese Singaporeans are descendants of southeastern Chinese immigrants who sailed across the seas decades ago. 

Singapore may be hard to spot on a map, but you’ll find it just south of the Malaysian peninsula in Southeast Asia, four hours away from China by plane. On that note, despite its proximity and commonalities in shared culture and history, Singapore is also not a part of Malaysia, though it was very briefly back in 1963 before Singapore became fully independent in 1965, making next year – 2025 – the 60th anniversary of the republic.  

4. Most Singaporeans speak excellent English

Singapore is an easy place for Western tourists to explore on their own because of the widespread use of English here. Fun fact: Singapore actually has four official languages: Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and Tamil represent the three major ethnic groups found here (Chinese, Malay and Indian respectively), and English is the main language used in schools and for business, which also allows for conversation across ethnicities.

5. Natural disasters are unlikely in Singapore 

Singapore may not have scenic mountain ranges or awe-inspiring topography, but it’s also out of the path of any major tectonic movement. You are unlikely to face any major natural disasters – no earthquakes, volcanos, typhoons or sandstorms here.

In the worst case, there may be flash floods during particularly rainy periods or haze blanketing the island from forest fires around the region, but these are usually temporary and minor inconveniences.

6. Singapore is a safe and stable place to visit 

Singapore is also well-known for its generally stable political and business climate, often ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world. Strikes that can disrupt travel plans are practically nonexistent here.

The crime rate in Singapore is also relatively low with lots of surveillance and a police force that people trust in. As a single woman, I’ve never been too worried about wandering around Singapore on my own even at night, but do maintain some common sense for your own safety as one of our popular slogans here goes: low crime doesn’t mean no crime.

7. Carry both cash and credit cards

How many Singapore dollars you change before your trip largely depends on where you plan to go . Most major tourist attractions and shops in shopping malls will accept credit cards, and other cashless options like contactless payments and smart wallets are also common.

Those planning to take public transport in Singapore can use their credit cards on the public buses and MRT card readers for convenience, but purchasing a local EZ-Link card or transport pass may be more worthwhile depending on how much travel you plan to do. However, do carry some cash around with you as it remains the prevalent method of payment for most small businesses, eating at hawker center stalls, or taking a taxi. Try to break notes of larger denominations ($50/$100) into smaller ones ($2/$5/$10) when possible.

8. Prebook attractions to avoid waiting in line

There’s a joke that a Singaporean’s favorite pastime is to queue for things, but that’s not something you want to waste time on. If there is an option to prebook tickets online or make a reservation, just do it. This is key on busy weekends and peak vacation periods like the mid- and year-end school holidays.

An attraction’s official website is usually the best place to get tickets, but browse other booking platforms before you check out as these sites may offer special seasonal discounts or multi-bundle prices. Also check the Visit Singapore website as it sometimes runs incentive programs for tourists.

9. Tipping is not expected

Tipping is not expected in Singapore. If you’re eating out in a restaurant or cafe, there is usually a 10% service charge included in the bill. Some places may have a tip box but otherwise, additional tips are not mandatory or expected, though they are appreciated in the service line.

10. Understand the art of "chope-ing"

If you are eating at food centers or working at co-working spaces, particularly within the central business district, you may notice empty tables with strategically placed items like umbrellas, tissue packets or lanyards on the seats. This is a local practice to "chope" or reserve a seat while everyone is queuing up at the stalls. Most people honor this informal reservation system and will look elsewhere for available seats.

11. Yes, you can drink the tap water

There's no need to buy bottled water in Singapore. The tap water here is treated and perfectly safe to drink. You'll find that most attractions have water coolers where you can refill your reusable bottles while you're out and about during the day.

This article was first published September 2023 and updated March 2024

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Singapore Consumer Protection Advisory

Here’s a list of smart shopping tips to ensure an ideal shopping experience in Singapore.

Make the most out of your shopping in Singapore with our Consumer Advisory information.

While Singapore retailers have fair business practices, there are a small number of shops and restaurants that might make your shopping experience less than ideal. Here are some smart shopping tips to ensure that your retail experience is a pleasant one.

1. Price Research and Comparison

Prices may vary between shops, as distributors are not obliged to abide by each product’s Recommended Retail Price (RRP).

While you can expect almost all local major departmental stores to clearly display the prices of their goods, be sure to compare prices of the product or service between shops before purchasing.

Be sure to look out for the price tag on the item. If you’ve agreed on a price with the retailer, request to have it written on the invoice before making payment. Research on information such as product model and features, accessories as well as product warranty (including the extent of geographical coverage) beforehand.

2. Note that purchases made are usually final

In Singapore, retailers may enforce strict policies of return, exchange and/or refund the moment payment is made. Always ask your retailer about their store’s policies before making payment for your purchase.

You can also request that the retailer indicate their return, exchange and/or refund policy on their invoice.

3. Check receipts or invoices for accuracy

It’s always handy to obtain and keep your purchase receipt, in the event you require an exchange or refund on your items. Check that prices and item descriptions on the receipt or invoice are correct to ensure that you do not pay more than what is required.

Make sure that you test the items you wish to purchase to ensure that they operate as they should. Check that the promised accessories, peripherals and free gifts—if any—are included in the package.

It’s also good practice to pay only when the price is finalised and your purchase is ready to be handed to you.

In circumstances where price of goods are quoted by weight, such as seafood and fruits, request for the final price and weight to be confirmed in writing before finalising an order or purchase.

This greatly reduces the chances of miscommunication that may result in a bill that is larger than expected.

4. Verify what your ‘international warranty’ covers

International warranties are not standardised, and you should always ask and verify that your warranty is valid in your home country. Ensure that both your invoice and warranty card bear your retailer’s stamp and signature. In the case of electronic goods, note down the product’s serial number as well.

For additional assistance or to flag inappropriate retailer behaviour, call Touristline at 1800 736 2000 (toll-free in Singapore), or (65) 6736 2000 (from overseas).

Touristline operates from Mondays to Fridays (excluding Public Holidays), 9am to 6pm. You may also submit your feedback here .

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Do’s and Don’ts in Singapore: Main Rules for Tourists

Advantiko > Countries > Singapore > Do’s and Don’ts in Singapore: Main Rules for Tourists

The miniature state of Singapore is perhaps the safest place on the planet. This country is free from tropical diseases, as well as serious crimes. The streets are clean, beautiful tropical parks and beaches are the perfect places where you can spend your time in peace. Literally at every step there are warning signs informing about how to behave and what not to do in Singapore for tourists and local residents.

It is no coincidence that among the epithets that flatter the metropolis like “Garden City” or “South-Eastern Switzerland”, there is an alarming slogan – “City of Prohibitions.” So, what is prohibited in Singapore and what could be the punishment and fines for violating these rules?

Check our ultimate travel guide on main rules for tourists and most important do’s and don’ts in Singapore. It will help first time visitors to avoid many problems, fines and law violations.

Fines for Garbage in Singapore

For decades, Singapore authorities have taught the citizens of the country to order and a healthy lifestyle. Today, strict rules are supported by a unified system of fines and the threat of being imprisoned. So, even a small piece of paper or a cigarette butt thrown out past the dumpster, which are installed everywhere here, can result in a fine of 300 to 1,000 Singapore dollars (SGD) – about US 223-740$.

If the violation is repeated, the fine increases to SGD 2,000. Or you can be sent to community service, where you’ll receive a bright-colored T-shirt in which you’ll have to clean the streets of Singapore with the inscription “I got dirty.”

Singapore Gum Law

Chewing gum is not allowed in Singapore. If you’re going to bring gum with you to the country and its consume it publicly you’ll have to pay 500 SGD fine.

Medical prescription is the only exception allowing you to chew gum in Singapore. For example, gum from nicotine addiction. Why can’t you chew gum in Singapore? This law came into force in 2004.

The reason is simple, the government has to spend a lot of financial and human resources on cleaning the chewing gum stuck somewhere under the armchair in public transport, under a bench in the park and in many other places.

Singapore Laws and Fines

You’ll also have to pay 500 SGD for a snack in public transport. The fine for spitting on the street is 1000 SGD. In the 90s of the last century, a real crusade was declared in Singapore for the cleanliness of public toilets and elevators, which often served here as toilets.

Covert video surveillance, fines, imprisonment, flogging with rattan whips and publications in newspapers of shameful lists of citizens who forgot to flush the toilet after themselves have resulted in radiant cleanliness in latrines. Penalties are still valid; ignoring the flush cistern in the toilets of shopping centers, cinemas, hotels will cost 500 SGD.

It’s also prohibited to feed the birds. Despite the fact that the authorities in many countries around the world don’t see anything wrong with this, in Singapore it is forbidden to feed birds on the street, or be prepared to pay 500 Singapore dollars for it.

Don’t Relieve Yourself in the Elevator

This problem is widespread in many countries around the globe – it’s not acceptable to use elevators to relieve yourself. Singapore has started to fight against such a problem and succeeded a lot in this: many elevators are equipped with special devices for detecting urine.

As soon as this device detects a smell, an alarm will be triggered and the elevator doors will be locked until the police arrive. The violator will eventually face a very large fine.

Fines for Drivers and Pedestrians

When walking around the city, cross the street only in the designated places, the fine for violating this rule is 500 SGD. Drivers should take into account that you cannot exceed a speed of 50 km / h in residential areas of Singapore. This violation, as well as driving without a seat belt or in the opposite lane, is punishable by a fine of 200 SGD.

Mobile communications and the Internet in Singapore can be used everywhere, except for the road. Using the phone while driving will result in a heavy fine, revocation or even arrest. Drivers are also threatened with imprisonment.

Smoking Rules

Singapore has very strict laws prohibiting the usage / possession / distribution of drugs. The punishment is merciless: at best, the drug addict is forcibly sent for treatment or in a prison cell, at worst – the case ends in a gallows. For citizens of foreign countries, the courts do not make an exception.

As part of the anti-smoking campaign, smoking was banned here in all public places.

It is allowed to drag on a cigarette anywhere on the street, away from bus stops, in special zones of restaurants and public buildings. The fine for breaking the rules is from 500 to 1000 SGD.

So, since 2011, electronic cigarettes have been banned in Singapore as well. The Health Organization of Singapore expressed its opinion that this type of smoking can lead to tobacco dependence among non-smokers. The fine for selling e-cigarettes is $ 5,000.

The ban on smoking hookahs was imposed in 2016.

Things to Avoid in Singapore as a Tourist

Durian is not allowed in public transport. People have different opinions regarding this fruit. Someone thinks that its creamy aroma is quite pleasant, while others think that the stench is incredibly strong.

You cannot show disrespect to different religions. Since Singapore is a multicultural country, if you decide to visit a mosque, temple or other place of religious worship, be sure to dress appropriately.

Don’t call people by name. Mister, miss or mrs plus the person’s last name will sound more polite.

Tipping is not accepted in Singapore

Even if you really enjoyed the cuisine or the service provided in cafe or restaurant, you should not leave a tip. Remember that in Singapore, tips are already included in the bill and called as service tax. Leaving extra money in this country is disrespecting local rules.

Be considerate with gifts

If you are invited to an event in Singapore where you need to exchange gifts, please specify in advance what the person wants. Singapore is a multinational country; what is acceptable for one nation can offend another.

For example, you should not give handkerchiefs or watches to Chinese. And an Indian or Malay who profess the Muslim religion should not be presented with gifts made of genuine leather, especially pork.

If you have to communicate with the Chinese and you are offered a gift, refuse it firstly and accept it only after the second offer. This will show that you are not a greedy person. Don’t open the gift in the presence of the person who gave it. If you are going to make a gift yourself, do not use a white wrapper – this is the color of mourning.

Goods for Import and Export

There are strict rules that tell tourists what cannot be brought into Singapore. These include tobacco in any form (chewing, snuff, instant, for hookahs), and electronic cigarettes are prohibited to import. The ban applies to lighters that mimic pistols or other weapons, erotic / pornographic magazines.

Among the drugs that cannot be brought into Singapore are strong drugs or over-the-counter drugs containing narcotic substances.

Meat products, fish, alcohol, cigarettes are regulated by customs. You can, for example, import up to 200 cigarettes and 1 liter of any alcoholic beverage.

There are no special restrictions on the export of goods from the country; problems usually arise for those who have especially valuable antiques with them. In this case, special permission may be required.

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Singapore Tourism Board acts on Traveller Complaints

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is to take tougher actions against errant retailers who repeatedly…

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is to take tougher actions against errant retailers who repeatedly subject tourists to their unethical retail practices. STB has received over 800 complaints from the 8 million tourists Singapore received last year, of which more than 50% were retail-related, with a high proportion of cases coming from the electronic goods sector. As a ratio to the number of visitors, the number of complaints received is not large, but STB regards every complaint received as one case too many. Since June 2003, letters from the STB have been sent to over 50 retail establishments that have been complained against by tourists, to inform them of possible blacklisting. The first `blacklist` will be carried in the October issues of publications such as The Real Destination Singapore brochure and the Official Map of Singapore . STB will also publish the blacklist monthly on its website, www.visitsingapore.com. Information on errant retailers will also be made available on a monthly basis at the Singapore Visitors Centres and through the Touristline at 1800-736 2000. STB has taken over the responsibility of the handling of complaints against retailers by tourists from the Retail Promotion Centre since May 2003, and has been representing tourists at the Small Claims Tribunals. A special hotline number, 1800-736 3366, has been set up recently to assist tourists who have had bad experiences during their stay in Singapore. Elaborating on STB`s decision to take a tougher stand against errant retailers, Mr Lim Neo Chian , Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive of the STB said: We are very committed to ensuring visitors have a memorable stay in Singapore and are serious about addressing the problem of errant retailers. Each year, the Board spends millions of dollars encouraging and attracting people from around the world to visit Singapore for amongst other things, the warmth and friendliness of Singaporeans. Our reputation as a fun and friendly city-state is at stake if errant retailers are allowed to continue unethical retail practices; causing grievance to visitors. Recently, the Board went as far as assisting an Australian tourist to lodge a civil suit against the House of Cameras and Electronics Pte Ltd, a retailer located at Lucky Plaza Shopping Centre. STB has received more than 40 complaints against this shop in 2002 and over 15 complaints from January to August 2003. STB is also looking forward to the proposed Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, which aims to make it easier for consumers, including tourists, to obtain civil remedies should they encounter unethical practices by retailers. In addition to the new measures which aim at reducing the number of errant retailers, the Board will also assist tourists in making more informed decisions when shopping for electrical and electronic products among other consumer goods in Singapore. A Marketing and Tourist-education campaign will be launched in October 2003 by STB`s Tourism Shopping division. The campaign will focus on disseminating information such as shopping tips and recommended shopping destinations for electrical and electronic goods. Organisations such as the Sim Lim Square Traders` Association, which counts tourists as a key consumer group for electronic goods sold by its member retailers, will also be launching a Star Retailers Programme in October 2003 to encourage good retail practices. Member retailers will offer a money-back guarantee (terms and conditions may apply) for any product sold above certain recommended retail prices. Shoppers can pick up lists detailing participating retailers, errant retailers and other information at the Sim Lim Square information counter. Apart from implementing tougher measures against errant retailers, we also want to reward retailers who demonstrate good retail practices. This is in line with STB`s initiatives, the Art of Service and the Tourism Awards, to encourage strong work ethics in the tourism workforce and to raise the overall service quality of the industry. Working closely with the industry, we are confident that with these measures and incentive programmes will significantly reduce the in place, there will be a significant decline in the total number of complaints against retailers within a year and enhance Singapore`s position as a choice shopping destination in the region. said Mr Lim.

Theodore Koumelis

Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.

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• Dispute Resolution

Dispute Resolution Process

The National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS™) was established in 1979. Today, NATAS is one of the leading trade associations in Singapore representing over 400 licensed travel agents. NATAS members command some 80% of the market share whether it is in the Outbound, Inbound, Air Transport or Surface Transport sectors. 

The dispute resolution process between consumers and our members comprise of NATAS''s attempt to forge a settlement (1st stage) as well as escalation to a Regulatory / Dispute Handling Organisation by the consumers (final stage). 

Regrettably, NATAS™ is unable to resolve commercial disputes between you and your travel agent or dictate the travel agents to pay compensation to you. We are however, able to link and connect you to the Customer Service Personnel  in the various agencies. Unfortunately, not all travel agencies in Singapore are members of NATAS , therefore, we are unable to assist you in your dispute with non-NATAS members. In such cases, you may approach the Regulatory / Dispute Handling organisations directly for assistance. 

Below is a list of regulatory / complaint handling organisations listed on the website. You can find information about these organisations and/or escalate a complaint to them by clicking the organisation name highlighted.

List of Regulatory / Dispute Handling Organisations

(1) Settlement between Consumer & Travel Agent (applies to members of NATAS only):

When a complaint is first received, it is recorded in the NATAS case file and then forward to the  Customer Service Personnel  of the respective travel agency. The complainant and the travel agent are encouraged to resolve the claim/dispute in an amicable and fair manner.

How to file a complaint with NATAS?

•  Write in to [email protected]

•   If necessary , NATAS Feedback will request you to provide supporting documents, such as Booking Form, Receipts, Air Tickets, T&C and any documents which may be useful to the travel agent for their investigation. 

(2) Escalate to Regulatory / Dispute Handling Organisations (when all options are exhausted between you and your travel agent)

When a dispute cannot be settled by mediation, the complainant has the option to approach a Regulatory / Dispute Handling Organisation to handle his/her case against the travel agent.

Singapore Tourist Complaint

We collected information about Singapore Tourist Complaint for you. There are links where you can find everything you need to know about Singapore Tourist Complaint.

CASE - Complaint & Resolution Making a Complaint

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Tourist arrested for allegedly stealing luxury goods at Changi Airport before her flight

SINGAPORE - A 38-year-old woman was arrested in April on suspicion of shoplifting a belt worth more than $800 and cosmetics worth almost $200 from the transit area of Changi Airport, nearly two months after the theft occurred.

In a statement on April 15, the police said they were alerted to theft from two shops at the Changi Airport transit area on Feb 21.

They identified the suspect – believed to be a tourist – after investigating, but were unable to apprehend her as she had left Singapore on a flight shortly after the goods went missing.

She was arrested on her return to Singapore in April.

In preliminary investigations, the police discovered the woman had allegedly stolen another haul of cosmetics worth more than $400 at Changi Airport on the day of her arrest.

She will be charged in court on April 16 with theft, the police added. If found guilty, she can be jailed for up to seven years or fined.

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New York JFK To Singapore Flight Time: How Long Does The World's Longest Non-Stop Flight Take?

• Singapore Airlines operates the world's longest scheduled direct flight from New York to Singapore.
• The flight is on the Airbus A350-900ULR with a high premium seat configuration.
• Singapore Airlines also operates a one-stop service to New York via Frankfurt.

Every day, Star Alliance carrier Singapore Airlines pushes back from the Big Apple, destined directly for home. At over 18 hours in flight duration, you'd better have (several) good books or enjoy binge-watching film after film. The airline operates its unique Airbus A350-900ULR on the route, with a special configuration to match, but more about that later in this article.

SQ23 connects New York John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) to Singapore Changi International (SIN) daily, and at over 9,532 miles (15,340 kilometers), as the crow flies, firmly awards the carrier operating the world's longest scheduled direct flight. If you cannot secure a premium seat on this service, don't panic. Singapore Airlines also operates a similar service between Singapore and Newark Liberty International (EWR), which comes in a slightly shorter distance, 9,529 miles (15,336 kilometers). The service holds the record for being the world's second-longest flight. Unfortunately, it's not the longest flight to a Cessna 172. Read more about that here.

Catering to the premium travel market, Singapore Airlines maintains a unique cabin configuration that only encompasses business and premium economy class on the flight, with a total capacity of 161 paying passengers. So, for economy class travelers, I'm sorry, you won't be able to sample this ultra-long-haul flight today.

How The Airbus A350 Is Redefining Long-Haul Travel

Get all the latest airline route news right here

Circumnavigating the world

Should you be brave enough to take SQ23 and SQ24 (JFK to SIN, and then SIN to JFK), you will have circumnavigated the world by default. Singapore Airlines sends its New York-bound aircraft across the Pacific Ocean using the jets' continuous air currents, which flow west to east. At the same time, those departing from New York to Singapore pass over the Atlantic, Europe, India, and the Bay of Bengal before descending into the Lion City.

Before COVID-19, SQ had operated a direct Singapore to Newark service, which held the longest flight title; however, after the carrier effectively hibernated through the depths of the pandemic, it decided to relaunch services to New York, but instead, this time was to JFK. This was due to an increased mix of passenger and cargo demand. However, since the post-pandemic thaw has seen increased demand on the route, the carrier now operates services to both major New York airports.

Big Apple to the Lion City

The A350-900ULR deployed on the route has a unique design that helps to facilitate a more excellent range, which is its low-density configuration. Singapore Airlines' standard Airbus A350-900 aircraft seats 253 (three classes) or 303 passengers (two classes). However, according to SeatGuru, the ULR variant hosts a maximum of just 161 passengers. These are laid out in a low-density configuration that maximizes passenger comfort. The aircraft's front and middle cabins consist of 67 flatbed seats in business class, and onboard, all passengers are treated to higher ceilings, more oversized windows, and an extra-wide aircraft body.

The schedule:

• New York (JFK)
• Newark (EWR)

While SQ holds the world's first and second spots for ultra-long-haul flights, third place goes to Qantas on its direct Perth (PER) to London Heathrow (LHR) service at 9,009 miles. Fourth is Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) to Melbourne Tullamarine (MEL) at 8,992 miles. Rounding out the top five are Air New Zealand and Qantas, which currently battle it out between Auckland (AKL) and New York (JFK), covering a distance of 8,829 miles.

Have you heard the Simple Flying podcast recently?

One-stop via Frankfurt

In addition to its direct New York services, Singapore maintains a one-stop service via Frankfurt, Germany . This time, the service is operated by a Boeing 777-300ER in a 264-seat configuration with a mix of four cabin classes:

• First - Four seats
• Business - 48 seats
• Premium economy - 28 seats
• Economy - 184 seats

Served since 1992, it used the 747-400 for years. Much more recently, it switched from the A380 to the 777-300ER in May 2023. Via Frankfurt, the sector flight times are certainly not as extreme as its flagship New York service and adhere to the below schedule daily:

What Are The Longest Airbus A350 Routes In The World?

Singapore airlines.

IATA/ICAO Code: SQ/SIA

Airline Type: Full Service Carrier

Hub(s): Singapore Changi Airport

Year Founded: 1972

Alliance: Star Alliance

CEO: Goh Choon Phong

Country: Singapore

Singapore Changi Airport

IATA/ICAO Code: SIN/WSSS

CEO: Lee Seow Hiang

Passenger Count : 3,053,000 (2021)

Runways : 02L/20R - 4,000m (13,123ft) |02C/20C - 4,000m (13,123ft) |02R/20L - 4,000m (13,123ft)

Terminals: Terminal 1 |Terminal 2 |Terminal 3 |Terminal 4 |JetQuay CIP Terminal

Newark Liberty International Airport

IATA/ICAO Code: EWR/KEWR

Country: United States

CEO: James Gill

Passenger Count : 15,892,892 (2020)

Runways : 4L/22R - 3,353m (11,000 ft) |4R/22L - 3,048m (10,000 ft) |11/29 - 2,050m (6,726 ft)

Terminals: Terminal A |Terminal B |Terminal C

How the alt-right used X to exploit the Bondi attacks, a Meta complaint dismissed and reindeer vs North Korea?

Analysis How the alt-right used X to exploit the Bondi attacks, a Meta complaint dismissed and reindeer vs North Korea?

Hello and welcome to Screenshot, your weekly tech update from national technology reporter Ange Lavoipierre, featuring the best, worst and strangest in tech and online news. As always, read to the end for an A+ Subreddit recommendation you didn't know you needed.

How the alt-right used X to exploit the Bondi attacks

It's true that nature abhors a vacuum, but nature's got nothing on X (formerly Twitter) in a crisis.

On Saturday afternoon, in the aftermath of the mass stabbing at Bondi Junction, there was a yawning news void on the topic of the attacker's identity or motive.

In the hours that followed, Australian journalists had little choice but to repeat ad nauseum the few confirmed facts they had, whilst everyone from Anthony Albanese down reminded us that speculation was unhelpful.

Sensing an opportunity, anti-Semitic and white supremacist accounts on X began suggesting with varying degrees of certainty that a Muslim terrorist was to blame , or that the attacker must be Jewish.

Then, roughly four hours in, one of the accounts fed the vacuum a name: Ben Cohen, a 20-year old Jewish man from Sydney's eastern suburbs.

The rumour festered on alt-right Twitter overnight, and journalists, also famous for their allergy to a vacuum, picked it up.

Early the following morning, two 7 News reporters named Ben Cohen as the "confirmed" attacker on TV and online.

Those stories have since been deleted, and 7 News has apologised for what it's described as a "human error".

So how does an ideologically motivated lie travel from alt-right internet backwaters to a national newsroom?

The finer points are so far a mystery and I hear speculation is unhelpful, but we know for sure that it passed through two main gates along the way.

The first was X's content moderation policies, and the second was at least one journalist's bullsh*t detector.

Regarding the first gate, I wouldn't be the first or last person to complain about how X is run.

Since entering its (selective) free speech era under Elon Musk , banned accounts have been reinstated and content moderation has been gutted.

In fact, late last year, the platform was officially kicked out of Australia's voluntary misinformation code for noncompliance , meaning technically, it no longer has to comply at all.

Crucially, no-one anywhere is expecting X to change in the foreseeable future.

Which brings us to the second gate: how journalists treat X.

In general, the media and the world more generally has an unhelpful habit of sorting the social web into two discrete tiers.

Above, we have the street level, consisting of Instagram, Facebook, and on a good day, TikTok — platforms which employ safety teams, engage with regulators, and at least attempt to label or remove misinformation.

Beneath that, there's the lawless, lightless sewer of unmoderated platforms like Gab, 4Chan, and Truth Social.

In the past, Twitter would have blended in more neatly on the street level.

For a decade prior to being absorbed into Musk's empire, it had cemented itself as a legitimate source of information, and a flawed but genuinely useful tool for newsgathering.

But in 2024, as 'X', it has a foot in both worlds, at best.

Part of the problem might be that we're confusing X with Twitter: a platform that no longer exists.

Meta complaint dismissed (aka how transparent should a transparency report be?)

Last month, Meta was accused of exaggerating its response to disinformation on Facebook .

A complaint was made to the regulator that Meta's most recent transparency report promised more comprehensive labelling for known falsehoods that it was delivering — a claim the company rejected.

On Monday, the committee dismissed the complaint, saying there was "no convincing evidence" .

It's likely the end of the road for the matter.

Australia's code of conduct for misinformation on platforms is voluntary, and was co-designed by companies such as Meta.

Under the code, complaints are considered by an independent subcommittee set up by DIGI, the same industry body that represents tech companies interests in Australia.

The safety research group that made the complaint, Reset Tech, says the decision shows that "platforms can say what they like in their Transparency Reports" .

"This is an embarrassment for a country that once led the world on online safety," Reset's executive director Alice Dawkins said.

In an (irony-free) statement explaining why the transparency complaint had been dismissed, the committee expressed its disappointment "that Reset Australia chose to share the substance of its complaint with the media". 

No win (yet) for Twiggy Forrest in his war on a Facebook crypto scam

While we're on Meta, mining magnate Andrew 'Twiggy' Forrest was going after the company in a WA court over dodgy crypto ads using his name and image to defraud investors, but the matter was dropped late last week.

One woman lost $670,000 as part of the scam , which also made use of fabricated ABC articles.

Watch this space though, because he's also pursuing it in a California court, which is due to give a verdict next month.

And if it's all too much…

(Which it might be, this week, and fair enough) then I hope you find some comfort in this Rorschach test of a subreddit, devoted to mysterious cookie cutters .

Recommendations and tips are always welcome. You can reach me securely on Proton Mail .  

• X (formerly Twitter)

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Ben was falsely accused of stabbing six people to death. here's how this falsehood spread.

'It doesn't happen in our own backyard': After tragedy unfolded, disbelief followed

Spooky theories on the big-bad-almost hack and an ugly window into the world of 'alt social media'

Apple is being sued by… the US? Plus, Instagram switches off your news tap, and cozzie livs comes for hackers

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Pope Francis to travel to Indonesia, Singapore, East Timor, and Papua New Guinea

By Courtney Mares

Vatican City, Apr 12, 2024 / 06:45 am

Pope Francis will travel to the Southeast Asian countries of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore later this year, the Vatican announced Friday.

The 11-day multi-country voyage from Sept. 2–13 will be the longest international trip of Francis’ papacy.

The trip announcement comes after the 87-year-old pope has slowed down his travel schedule in recent months as health issues have forced him to cancel some public appearances. Francis, who often uses a wheelchair, has not traveled internationally since September 2023.

Pope Francis’ first stop will be Indonesia, home to the largest Muslim population in the world. The country’s 229 million Muslims make up more than 12% of the global Muslim population. Nearly all of Indonesia’s Muslims are Sunni.

Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo of Jakarta welcomed the news that the pope will visit Indonesia from Sept. 3–6.

“Catholics throughout Indonesia want to shake hands with the pope one by one, but we all know that is impossible,” Suharyo said in a video message announcing the visit.

More than 29 million Christians live in Indonesia, 7 million of whom are Catholic. Pope Paul VI visited the country in 1970 and Pope John Paul II traveled there in 1989.

“Hopefully, with this visit, Indonesian Catholics will become more courageous in voicing the truth and become an example for people of other religions in terms of truly religious life, namely love above all, as the pope always emphasizes,” the Indonesian cardinal told UCA News.

Papua New Guinea

Pope Francis will be the second pope to visit Singapore, East Timor, and Papua New Guinea after John Paul II.

The pope will visit the cities of Port Moresby and Vanimo in Papua New Guinea from Sept. 6–9.

Papua New Guinea is a country of nearly 9 million people on the eastern half of the island of New Guinea. The other side of the island consists of two Indonesian provinces. Papua New Guinea is a nation of considerable cultural diversity, comprised of hundreds of ethnic groups indigenous to the island with 851 Indigenous languages spoken in the country.

Nearly all Papua New Guinea citizens are Christians, and 26% of the population is Catholic.

The pope’s next stop on his Southeast Asia tour will be Dili, the capital city of East Timor, from Sept. 9–11.

East Timor is a small country on the island of Timor. It gained independence from Indonesia in 1999, following decades of bloody conflict as the region vied for national sovereignty.

More in Vatican

Pope Francis decries how ‘the unborn with disabilities are aborted’ in throwaway culture

More than 97% of East Timor’s population of 1 million people is Catholic. It is one of only a few Catholic-majority countries in Southeast Asia.

A Catholic bishop from East Timor, Bishop Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo, received the Nobel Peace Prize together with the country’s second president, Jose Manuel Ramos-Horta, in 1996 for their efforts to reach a peaceful and just end to fighting in the country.

The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that Belo has been under disciplinary restrictions since September 2020 due to accusations of sexual abuse of minors.

Pope Francis will conclude his trip with a visit to the island country of Singapore from Sept. 11–13.

Singapore has the highest GDP per capita in Asia and the second-highest population density of any country in the world. The Archdiocese of Singapore has a diverse population of 395,000 Catholics, offering Masses predominantly in English, Chinese, Tamil, as well as other languages from Southeast Asia.

Nearly 75% of Singapore’s population is ethnic Chinese, according to the 2020 census, which also lists 13% of the population as ethnic Malay and 9% ethnic Indian.

(Story continues below)

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The U.S. Report on International Religious Freedom states that among ethnic Indians in Singapore, 57.3% are Hindu, 23.4% Muslim, and 12.6% Christian. The ethnic Chinese population includes Buddhists (40.4%), Christians (21.6%), Taoists (11.6%), and 25.7% with no religion.

Pope Francis has long expressed interest in visiting Indonesia and other neighboring island nations in Southeast Asia. A papal trip to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and East Timor was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said that the pope’s full schedule for this apostolic journey will be published at a later date.

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Follow our news, recent searches, new zealand pm luxon to make official visit to singapore, on first stop of southeast asia trip, advertisement.

Mr Luxon will call on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and meet Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during his visit.

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SINGAPORE: New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will make an official visit to Singapore from Sunday (Apr 14) to Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a media statement.

Singapore is the first stop of Mr Luxon’s Southeast Asia visit, which will also include Thailand and the Philippines.

“Prime Minister Luxon’s visit reaffirms the excellent and longstanding relations between Singapore and New Zealand, underpinned by the Enhanced Partnership established in 2019,” said MFA.

The two countries had formally upgraded bilateral relations to an Enhanced Partnership in May 2019, during then Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s visit here. It covers the five pillars of trade and economics, security and defence, science, technology and innovation, people-to-people links, and climate change and the green economy .

Mr Luxon will be accompanied on his visit by New Zealand Minister for Climate Change and Minister for Revenue Simon Watts and other senior officials.

He will receive an official welcome at the Istana on Monday, and have a new orchid hybrid named in his honour.

“He will call on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and meet Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who will also host an official lunch,” MFA said.

He will also meet Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

Mr Luxon took office last November, after his National Party won enough seats in the country’s general election the month before to govern in a coalition.

Mr Lee had spoken with his New Zealand counterpart over the phone in January this year, and the duo also met on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne in March.

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Pope will travel to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore in longest trip of papacy

FILE -Pope Francis waves as he leaves after his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican announced Friday, April 12 ,2024, confirming the longest trip of Francis’ papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File)

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VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican announced Friday, confirming the longest trip of Francis’ papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility.

The Vatican confirmed the Sept. 2-13 visit, saying the 87-year-old pope would visit Jakarta, Indonesia; Port Moresby and Vanimo, Papua New Guinea; Dili, East Timor; and Singapore. Further details will be announced later.

Francis’ health has become a source of increasing concern and speculation, even though the pontiff is able to carry on with a rigorous schedule of meetings at the Vatican and even excursions to local parishes.

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, had to cancel a planned visit to Dubai late last year after he came down with a bad case of bronchitis. He suffered from respiratory problems all winter and had to curtail his participation in Holy Week events to save his energy for Easter.

Francis has also been using a wheelchair for nearly two years because of bad knee ligaments, and has said that traveling has become increasingly more difficult.

And yet at 11 days, the trip would be the longest of Francis’ papacy, outpacing by a few days some of his long trips to the Americas early on in his 11-year papacy. It will bring the Argentine Jesuit to the world’s most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia, as well as the former Portuguese colony of East Timor, where the Catholic Church wields enormous influence.

There is also a chance of another leg to the trip being added later: This week, the Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, was in Vietnam and discussed a papal visit, Vatican News reported, without providing details.

In a statement announcing the visit, the Indonesian foreign ministry welcomed the visit and recalled that it had originally been scheduled for 2020 but was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia holds significant importance to the Indonesian people, not only for Catholics but also for all religious communities. The visit is also expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity and world peace,” the statement said.

Indonesia is home to roughly 242 million Muslims and 29 million Christians — 8.5 million of whom are Catholics — according to a 2022 report by the Religious Affairs Ministry.

East Timor, which today has a population of about 1.2 million people, is Southeast Asia’s only predominantly Christian nation with the exception of the Philippines. According to the 2015 census, 97.6% of East Timor’s population is Catholic.

The visit to East Timor will likely reignite attention over a clergy sex abuse scandal involving its revered independence hero and Nobel Peace Prize winner. The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that it had sanctioned Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo following allegations that he sexually abused boys there during the 1990s. Belo is believed to now be living in Portugal.

Francis will be the first pope to visit Papua New Guinea since St. John Paul II went there in 1984. The country, in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, has struggled with tribal violence and civil unrest.

John Paul also visited Singapore, in 1986. The country today is home to 395,000 Catholics and Francis in 2022 made its archbishop Singapore’s first cardinal.

In a statement welcoming the visit, Cardinal William Goh, said it “will bring renewed fervor to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times.”

The Vatican has planned only one other papal trip this year — to Belgium to celebrate the anniversary of the country’s Catholic university. Francis has also said he wants to return to his native Argentina , but no plans or dates have been announced.

Karmini contributed from Jakarta, Indonesia.