Briefs | Singapore’s archbishop alarmed by Madonna’s concert

Archbishop William Goh has expressed grave concerns from Singapore’s Catholic Church over Madonna’s upcoming concert in Singapore. He also reminded Catholics that it was their “moral obligation not to support those who denigrate and insult religions, including anti-Christian and immoral values promoted by the secular world.” However, authorities have assured the Archbishop, both in writing and orally, that “restrictions have been placed to ensure that religiously-offensive content that breaches local guidelines will not be allowed on stage.” Madonna performed in Macau over the weekend and her “Rebel Heart” tour is currently in Manila, Philippines.

Tourism Services Accreditation Scheme expands

The Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) held a conference on the promotion of the Quality Tourism Services Accreditation Scheme. Beginning this year travel agencies will be included in the scope of the scheme in order to improve the quality of tourism services. According to a statement by the MGTO, the catering industry is currently in talks to participate in what is now the third annual plan. So far under the scheme, 167 licensed restaurants have been awarded with “Star Merchant Awards”, which can be used by merchants as a means of self-promotion.

IACM: 257 attacks by animals

The Civil and Municipal Affairs Bureau (IACM) has released the 2015 statistics of animal attacks on humans, with data showing a total of 257 recorded cases. According to IACM, an additional 31 incidents involving animal attacks took place in January 2016. A vet currently working in the Municipal Kennel told local media that most of the injuries result from bites or scratches by the animals. Last year, the ICAM issued a total of 11,240 pet licenses, of which 2,014 were first-time issuances, representing 232 more than the previous year. The veterinary staff also commented that owners are required to vaccinate their pets against rabies when they apply for animal registration.