Month: April 2023

Adulting 101: Five essential types of insurance you’ll need in life

Post author By Ben
Post date April 12, 2023
No Comments on Adulting 101: Five essential types of insurance you’ll need in life

Life after National Service can be challenging as NSmen transition into adulthood, but the right insurance policies can help mitigate unexpected financial expenses.

TEXT: NUR ADLINA BINTE ADAM
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK

Life may be full of uncertainties – mishaps and accidents can arise anytime. Thankfully, the right insurance policies can help minimise the financial impact of dealing with life’s emergencies.

As a young adult, it’s important to take into consideration the different types of policies that are available and their functions. From pet to motor insurance, here are five types of coverage that one should consider.

HOME INSURANCE

Balloting for your dream Built-To-Order (BTO) flat is an important milestone, but it’s one that comes with significant financial responsibilities, especially after furnishing and renovation costs are factored in.

Home insurance helps you to cover damage or losses to your residence. It can offer protection against fire, floods and even robberies. Although you may be covered by the fire insurance scheme from the Housing Development Board (HDB), it’s a good idea to consider additional home insurance. HDB insurance covers “the cost of reinstating damaged internal structures, fixtures, as well as areas built and provided by HDB”. It does not however, extend coverage to your personal belongings and renovation work.

MOTOR INSURANCE

If you’ve saved enough to buy your dream car or motorcycle, congratulations! This is a significant milestone on your journey to adulthood. Next up? Motor insurance, which is mandatory for every road user here. Such policies cover third-party injuries and – just like all the other types of insurance covered above – it helps to protect an individual from a heavy financial burden.

In the event of an accident, it’s crucial for you to check in with your insurance company – even when there isn’t any visible damage to your vehicle. If you’re unsure of what to do, the Motor Claims Framework is a helpful guide for you to get some tips.

PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE

The cost of healthcare in Singapore is on the rise, meaning visits to the doctor can be quite hefty. Personal accident insurance policyholders can receive monetary compensation should something unfortunate occur. Aside from major incidents resulting in accidental death or permanent disability, the insurance also covers minor injuries like fractures and even hospital bills.

HomeTeamNS Ordinary members (aged 70 and below) actually enjoy free coverage. Members enjoy complimentary personal accident insurance coverage, with a total coverage of S$30,000. It includes coverage for accidental death and permanent disablement, fractured bones, child education fund, physiotherapy costs, and mobility aid expenses.

“I think it’s very useful to have this benefit, it’s an added advantage to HomeTeamNS members,” shared Isabel, the daughter of a HomeTeamNS member who passed away.

PET INSURANCE

As any pet parent knows, vet visits can be unexpectedly costly – a consultation session alone can cost between S$25 and S$60. Pet insurance can help offset the cost of veterinary bills. In Singapore, these policies usually cover treatments including physical accidents, cancer treatments, chemotherapy and spaying or neutering operations.

Pet insurance lets you focus on finding the best possible care for your pet without worrying too much about the bills. This also gives you the peace of mind to focus on helping your furry friend make a swift recovery.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

When you’re planning your next holiday, travel insurance should be on the top of your checklist along with your passport and foreign currency. A travel insurance policy is a smart move for every globetrotter, as it protects them from various mishaps during their trip.

Policies can cover one’s expenses and protect their well-being and personal belongings. From losing one’s baggage to experiencing a flight delay (or cancellation), travellers can recoup some of their expenses as they may claim for reimbursement from the insurance company.

HomeTeamNS members enjoy 20 per cent off Singlife with Aviva travel insurance (single trip). Additionally, if you have a MHA Group Insurance Voluntary coverage, you can get an additional 30 per cent discount. With this perk, you can travel the world with the peace of mind from knowing that you’re protected should emergencies occur.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the app settings.

Spotlight Club Buzz

HomeTeamNS Scholarship: For the love of sports

Post author By Dennis
Post date April 12, 2023
No Comments on HomeTeamNS Scholarship: For the love of sports

Mr Joseph Loh, Director of Business Strategies of HomeTeamNS, presenting the HomeTeamNS Scholarship to Ms Nur Eryka Binte Muhammad Imran, an outstanding student of Nitec in Fitness Training during the Graduation Ceremony at ITE College West on 14 February 2023.

Meet Nur Eryka Binte Muhammad Imran, an outstanding student of Nitec in Fitness Training 2023, a HomeTeamNS Scholarship recipient, and a passionate hockey player.

TEXT: NUR ADLINA BINTE ADAM

PHOTOS: HOMETEAMNS, NUR ERYKA BINTE MUHAMMAD IMRAN

When Ms Nur Eryka Binte Muhammad Imran saw the outstanding graduate for the Nitec in Fitness Training when she emceed her seniors’ graduation ceremony last year, she thought to herself: “Wow, I want to be like him.”

On her own graduation day the following year, she fulfilled her dream.

During the Nitec Graduation Ceremony at the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) College West on 14 February 2023, she was named the Outstanding Graduate for Nitec in Fitness Training. Mr Joseph Loh, Director of Business Strategies of HomeTeamNS, presented the HomeTeamNS Scholarship to Eryka for her impressive performance in school.

The scholarship recognises the notable efforts by students studying the Nitec in Fitness Training and Higher Nitec in Sport Management across all the ITE colleges.

“I feel very proud, it’s definitely a big achievement and I’ve been wanting this for a long time,” said Eryka. The HomeTeamNS Scholarship doesn’t just help to fund Eryka’s studies, it also serves as a stepping stone to achieving her passion for sports and fitness outside of the classroom.

SPORTS ABOVE ALL

Her love of sports flourished when she was a secondary school student at CHIJ St Theresa’s Convent. Her school offered a new ‘O’ Level subject, Exercise and Sports Science, that covers the sub-disciplines of sports science and the sociology behind it. As Eryka learned about exercise physiology, biomechanics and sports psychology she became even more fascinated by the subject.

This made her path to Nitec in Fitness Training in ITE College West a natural progression, as she was able to pursue her journey in studying sports. “When I was young, I really loved sports and was interested in learning about human anatomy and biomechanics. It’s the only subject that I excelled in,” said the 19-year-old.

Next, Eryka intends to study the Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science at Republic Polytechnic and pursue further studies in physiotherapy in Australia or New Zealand.

A GOAL GETTER

Eryka also excels in her favourite sport, field hockey. As a left or centre mid-fielder for the Jansenites Hockey Club in Singapore, she relies on her skills to read the game and make quick judgements during matches to support both defenders and forwards.

At times, she plays as a centre forward, leading attacks on her opponents’ goals. “The National Junior League 2023 was the most memorable competition for me,” she recalled. “I scored and assisted a few goals for the team during the matches against Anderson Serangoon Junior College, and ACSOBASG Oldham Hockey Club.”

She intends to participate in the Under-21 trials to be a part of the youth national hockey team and is training hard to achieve that goal. Consistent 2.4km runs, strength training and playing alongside national players in her team, has helped boost Eryka’s confidence on the field.

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the App Settings.

Spotlight Club Buzz

Getting a head start with her education and ambitions

Post author By Dennis
Post date April 12, 2023
No Comments on Getting a head start with her education and ambitions

Han Meng Chen (front row, far right) received the HomeTeamNS Children’s Education Award. She hopes to pursue an acting career.

HomeTeamNS Children’s Education Award recipient may appear to be a shy child, but she dreams of an acting career.

TEXT: NUR ADLINA BINTE ADAM

PHOTOS: HOMETEAMNS

Despite her shy demeanour, Han Meng Chen, daughter of HomeTeamNS Ordinary member Mr Han Lin Zhuo, wants to be an actor. Meng Chen was among 80 recipients of the HomeTeamNS Children’s Education Award, where she was among the top five students in the Primary 3 and 4 cohort.

Speaking at the ceremony, Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister to State, Ministry of Home Affairs and National Development, and HomeTeamNS President said: “Young people are the present and the future of our nation. HomeTeamNS believes that good education plays a vital role in paving the way for a better future. Though the journey may be tedious, it is true grit and determination that propels us closer to success.”

This reflected well on Meng Chen, as she achieved excellent grades for her semester results in 2021 and was also a prefect at North View Primary School. Indeed, her father is proud of her stunning achievements. “I’m happy that she has passed and more importantly, she enjoys acquiring more knowledge through her school lessons and is able to apply this knowledge to solve real-life problems,” Mr Han said.

UNITED AS ONE

Mr Han is the sole parent and breadwinner, which means he has to fulfill the vital roles of a nurturing mother and a protective father to Meng Chen. He believes he does not need to exert pressure on his daughter to excel in her studies as she is a responsible child. Working as a freelancer gives Mr Han the opportunity to help Meng Chen with Mathematics. He also tries his best to protect her from negative influences on social media.

This is not the first time Meng Chen has received the HomeTeamNS Children’s Education Award, which has helped offset the cost of her school fees. It also allowed them to start saving for her future studies.

WORKING TOWARDS HER DREAM

Meng Chen was inspired to become an actor after watching Netflix’s Wednesday and Disney’s Cruella, which were fronted by acclaimed actors Jenna Ortega and Emma Stone respectively.

“I think Jenna Ortega is graceful and can solve a lot of mysteries and cases just like policemen,” she shared. Mr Han added that Meng Chen is intrigued by compelling roles.

And she’s already started taking small steps to achieving her dream. Meng Chen is a Drama Club member in school and played the role of an ant in The Butterfly and the Boy during a performance in school. “It’s fun, and you can express your feelings freely through the role that you play,” she said.

Meng Chen plans to study acting and hopes to act in foreign films – perhaps alongside some of her idols.

More than 2,600 children of HomeTeamNS Ordinary Members have received help from the CEA since its inception in 2004. With CEA, we hope to reward and celebrate families, and encourage students to excel academically. For the latest updates on the applications, visit our website or Facebook page.

Shape Up Travel

5 basic lifesaving skills you need to know while on vacation

Post author By Ben
Post date April 12, 2023
No Comments on 5 basic lifesaving skills you need to know while on vacation

Credit: SCDF

From recognising the signs of stroke to performing CPR, a paramedic shares essential lifesaving techniques that can help to save lives.

TEXT: BEATRICE BOWERS

Rest and relaxation are usually our top priorities when we are on holiday, but things can quickly go south due to unforeseen emergencies. Being prepared to manage an emergency with basic lifesaving skills can make all the difference, especially when you are faced with medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest or heatstroke, and help may take some time to arrive.

Ms Vernita Erat is a paramedic from the Singapore Civil Defence Force’s (SCDF) Civil Defence Auxiliary Unit (CDAU). Currently performing her duties at Alexandra Fire Station, Ms Erat shares five key techniques to manage common emergency scenarios, especially when abroad.

1. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

“I believe CPR is one of the most essential life-saving skills that everyone should know,” says Ms Erat. “CPR can significantly increase the chances of survival from a cardiac arrest.”

When travelling with loved ones who suffer from known cardiac issues, proficiency in CPR is critical. According to the Singapore Heart Foundation (SHF), sudden cardiac arrest causes the heart to unexpectedly stop beating. As blood stops flowing to vital organs such as the brain, heart, and lungs, the lack of oxygen will cause irreversible damage to the brain cells within the first 4 to 6 minutes of a cardiac arrest.

Hands-only CPR, which focuses on chest compressions, helps to get oxygen-rich blood flowing through the body again. When performed immediately and correctly, it can help to restore heart function and prevent permanent brain damage. However, CPR is not a skill that you can pick up just by reading about it online. Attending relevant first aid courses, such as SCDF’s Community Emergency Preparedness Programme (CEPP), will help us learn the proper techniques for CPR.

“Remember to get other bystanders to call the emergency medical services for help,” she shares.

“If you are alone, call for help first, then start CPR.”

2. Basic wound treatment and usage of splints

“Travelers on hiking trips should learn how to properly apply dressings, bandages, and splints, which can come in handy during hiking accidents,” shares Ms Erat. A splint is any object which can be used to stabilise a part of the body to minimise movement and prevent further injury. She advises that bandages should not be tied too tightly in consideration of the patient’s comfort. Knowing how to apply a tourniquet to staunch heavy bleeding can potentially save lives.

In cases where limbs are fractured, Ms Erat advises not to move the patients unless their injuries are stabilised or if they are in an unsafe place. “You do not want to further aggravate the injury and cause more pain,” she elaborates.

3. Management of heat injuries

When holidaying at warm destinations, pay closer attention to signs of heat injury such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. An elevated body temperature, headache, dizziness, nausea, clammy skin and excessive thirst are some symptoms of heat injury.

When encountering heat exhaustion or heatstroke, Ms Erat advises to bring the patients to a shaded or air-conditioned area, before cooling them with a shower. “Most importantly, they should drink plenty of water and isotonic drinks.”

4. Responding to severe allergies

Allergies can occur any time, so it is important to be well-prepared. If your travel buddy’s allergic reactions (e.g. swollen eyes, wheezing and hives) are becoming severe, quickly remove the antigen from them, advises Ms Erat. If you are confident in administering an Epi-Pen, proceed cautiously.

5. The Heimlich Maneuver

Knowledge of the Heimlich Maneuver can help to save lives during instances of choking. The technique involves abdominal thrusts that help to expel foreign objects from the patient’s airway. “Done properly, the Heimlich Maneuver can prevent choking patients from going into full-blown cardiac arrest,” explains Ms Erat. Even after the patient has been successfully saved from choking by the Heimlich Maneuver, he or she should nonetheless seek medical attention to ensure that there is no physical damage to the throat and airway.

What to pack in your travel first-aid kit

Small and large plasters
Hydrocolloid gel plasters for blisters
Antiseptic creams and wound wash
Bandages, gauze and medical tape
Paracetemol and antithistamines
Motion sickness medicine
Disposable cold packs

Like our stories? Subscribe to our Frontline Digital newsletters now! Simply download the HomeTeamNS Mobile App and update your communication preference to ‘Receive Digital Frontline Magazine’, through the app settings.

Tags scdf, lifesaving skills, CPR, vacation tips

Singapore Buzz Food

9 unpretentious restaurants in Singapore for a casual night out

Post author By Ben
Post date April 4, 2023
No Comments on 9 unpretentious restaurants in Singapore for a casual night out

Source: Hub & Spoke Cafe

For low-key yet standout date nights and gatherings, check out these dining gems, some of which offer great discounts for HomeTeamNS members.

TEXT: THERESE TAY

Date night shouldn’t be a chore. Some of the most enjoyable meals with family and friends are laidback – but nonetheless satisfying – affairs. For those who eschew the hype of celebrity restaurants with stuffy vibes and strict dress codes, here are some unpretentious establishments that not only serve outstanding food that won’t break the bank, but also won’t have you feeling sheepish about rocking up in your shorts and T-shirt.

SOUTH UNION PARK

Featuring a minimalistic vibe, South Union Park specialises in handmade pasta among other Italian and Western dishes with a twist. Its signature pasta is the Duck Confit Tagliatelle, a luscious marriage of housemade egg pasta, shredded duck confit, hazelnuts and masala cream. Another must-order is the Squid Ink Bone Marrow. Described as “meat butter”, this consists of seared bone marrow, squid ink soffrito, garlic crumbs and chives, served with grilled country bread – smear the marrow like butter on the bread before popping it in your mouth. Although tucked away in a residential area off Kembangan MRT, this restaurant is quite popular so head there early.

101 Jln Kembangan, Singapore 419139

SUKI-SUKI THAI HOTPOT AT HOMETEAMNS KHATIB

For a twist on the regular hotpot, check out this halal Thai-style buffet steamboat joint. It offers six Thai soup bases – such as Clear Tom Yum, Red Tom Yum and Sweet Basil Chicken – and over 40 quality ingredients, including Wagyu beef, flower crab and homemade fish paste. Brought to you by the people behind Siam Kitchen and Bangkok Jam, the eatery goes the mile for authenticity as even the dipping sauces are Thai-inspired. Free-flow drinks and dessert are included in the buffet price. There’s a 10 per cent discount for HomeTeamNS members.

2 Yishun Walk, #01-01 HomeTeamNS Khatib, Singapore 767944

PORTA PORTA ITALIAN RESTAURANT

“Porta porta” means “door to door” in Italian. In this case, from their home to your tummy, this Muslim-owned establishment has been serving guests for over 25 years. Located in a rustic shophouse at Simpang Bedok, a unique feature here is the fai te (you do it) set that allows you to sit back and be surprised by multiple delicious discoveries prepared by the chefs — an Italian omakase, if you will. Otherwise, their pastas are especially recommended. Try the Pasta Con Salsa Di Gamberi (pasta with prawn cream sauce), which features nonna’s (grandma’s) secret marinara sauce, or the Tagliatelle Al Nero Di Seppie (egg noodles with black squid sauce), which is always interesting and fun with its tongue-staining black squid ink.

No. 32 Jln Pari Burong, Singapore 488698

INDULGE TEPPANYAKI & GRILL HOUSE AT HOMETEAMNS-JOM BALESTIER

For hearty Western fare with a Japanese twist, you’ll indeed be able to indulge at Indulge. From its roots as a humble stall in a coffeeshop, Indulge has expanded into a chain of several outlets, including this flagship restaurant. Omitting pork and lard in their recipes, Indulge is popular for its customisable rice and salad bowls, and pasta sets. Each of them comes with a base and protein of your choice – we like the flavourful and succulent chicken chop, and for the pasta, the innovative hae bee hiam (dried shrimp) or mala sauce. However, it is their teppanyaki sets that you must try at this branch. Each set comes with a protein option, a choice of black pepper or yakiniku sauce, and a variety of greens, including broccoli, baby carrots, bean sprouts and corn. The Seafood Set is particularly mouthwatering, consisting of a hotplate teeming with prawns, scallops and clams. HomeTeamNS members enjoy a 15 per cent discount on their total bill.

31 Ah Hood Rd, #01-04, Singapore 329979

ELA AT HOMETEAMNS BUKIT BATOK

One of HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok’s healthier dining options, Ela is The Black Hole Group’s (wildly popular Tipo is another brainchild) answer to halal Greek cuisine. Here, grilled meat and seafood served with naked salads take centre stage, alongside piquant dips. Order a Dip Party Platter to share among friends – its charred eggplant melitzanosalata, salty cod roe taramasalata, ricotta and red bell pepper spiked tirokafteri and garlicky yoghurt-based tzatziki are paired with warm, fluffy Pita bread to whet the appetite. Mediterranean cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, so don’t miss their chunky Swordfish skewers as well as springy Octopus, which rests on a bed of garlic and potato mash and is drizzled with a lemon sauce and olive oil. HomeTeamNS members enjoy a 20 per cent discount here.

2 Bukit Batok West Ave 7, HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok, #01-07 A/B, Singapore 659003

WOODY FAMILY CAFE

Ensconced in a little corner of Sembawang, this rustic cafe specialises in Peranakan fare, with some creative interpretations. Interesting dishes to pair with their signature nasi ulam (rice mixed with shredded herbs) include the Duck Rendang, German Pork Knuckles Garam Assam, and Lamb Shank Rendang. Woody also has a special fried rice menu, including highlights such as the pungent Sambal Chinchalok Fried Rice and Buah Keluak Fried Rice. Spice lovers can also take up the Woody Buffalo Wings challenge – with nine levels of spiciness ranging from “Very Mild” to “Towering Inferno” to tingle your senses.

12F Andrews Ave, Singapore 759930

SRI BISTARI AT HOMETEAMNS BEDOK RESERVOIR

Previously known as D.U.I.T, located at the now-defunct HomeTeamNS Sembawang, Sri Bistari is a familiar favourite among HomeTeamNS members. It is well known for its nasi ayam penyet (smashed fried chicken with rice) and grilled seafood options such as sotong (squid), stingray and prawns. Its popular dessert of a warm Belgian waffle, topped with your choice of gelato, certainly hits the spot after all that spicy sambal. There’s a 10 per cent discount for HomeTeamNS members.

900 Bedok North Rd, HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir #02-01, Singapore 479994

HUB & SPOKE CAFE

This under-the-radar cafe overlooking a leafy courtyard is your reward for venturing to a comparatively lesser-known area of Changi Airport Terminal 2. You can choose to have local or Western fare within the eatery’s colonial-themed glasshouse setting, where an abundance of natural light filters through floor-to-ceiling windows, or alfresco under a canopy. We recommend The Big Brekkie, which comes with buttermilk pancakes, brioche toast, eggs, sausages and tater tots; the Truffle Crab Roll; or the Wagyu Beef Burger. Classic local fare such as kaya butter toast, nasi lemak and mee siam are also available, alongside the requisite kopi and teh.

60 Airport Boulevard #01-T2S-02, Singapore Changi Airport, 819643

ORCHID LIVE SEAFOOD AT HOMETEAMNS KHATIB

For the ultimate comfort food, you can’t go wrong at this Teochew seafood stalwart. A must-order is the restaurant’s signature Live Lobster Porridge. Made since 1999 from a secret recipe, it features succulent fresh lobster meat and is seasoned with fragrant sesame oil and spring onions. Served piping hot, it is an umami flavour-bomb. Pair it with Steven Chicken, the other famous dish at Orchid Live Seafood. Deboned and specially marinated with a sauce created from a 20-year-old recipe, the juicy chicken wings are then fried to perfection. You will not be able to stop at one. HomeTeamNS members enjoy 10 per cent off their total bill.

2 Yishun Walk, #03-01 HomeTeamNS Khatib, Singapore 767944

To discover more membership promotions, please visit our website or official Facebook page for the latest updates.

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