National Gallery Singapore announces the participation of artists from its collection at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia curated by Adriano Pedrosa National Gallery Singapore is delighted to announce that for the first time in the country’s history, artists from the Gallery’s collection have been invited to participate in the Main Exhibition of the 60th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia (Biennale Arte 2024), entitled Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere, curated by Adriano Pedrosa. The artworks will be featured in the “Nucleo Storico” section in the Main Exhibition, in a sub-section entitled “Portraits”, which expands the history of modernism beyond Europe and North America by focusing on stories from the Global South, including artists whose trajectories took them across continents and contexts over the tumultuous course of the 20th century. With more than 8,000 works, the National Gallery Singapore holds the largest public collection of modern art from Southeast Asia, offering a unique point of departure for transnational curatorial and research efforts that seek to position art from Singapore and Southeast Asia as integral to global art histories. Ranging from self-portraits to representations of working class and indigenous persons, the eight artworks by Southeast Asian artists from the Gallery’s collection are as follows ▪ Jeune fille en blanc (Young Girl in White) (1931) by Lê Phổ (Vietnam/France); ▪ Self Portrait (c. 1946) by Georgette Chen (China/Singapore); ▪ Orang Irian dengan burung tjenderawasih (Irian Man with Bird of Paradise) (1948) by Emiria Sunassa (Indonesia); ▪ Road Construction Worker (1955) by Chua Mia Tee (China/Singapore); ▪ Self-Expression (c.1957/1963) by Lim Mu Hue (Singapore); ▪ Labourer (Lunch Break) (1965) by Lai Foong Moi (Malaysia/Singapore); ▪ My Family (1968) by Hendra Gunawan (Indonesia); ▪ Self-Portrait (1975) by Affandi (Indonesia). Eugene Tan, Chief Executive Officer of National Gallery Singapore says: “National Gallery Singapore is proud to present works from its collection in the 60th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia. Together with artists largely from the Global South, these eight portraits will deepen the understanding of modern art in Southeast Asia within a global context. The Gallery’s participation in the Biennale Arte 2024 will highlight the art and artists from Singapore and Southeast Asia and facilitate crucial dialogues with art from around the world.” Creating opportunities to build new connections and to share the stories of artists from Southeast Asia is an important part of the mission and vision of National Gallery Singapore. The Gallery’s presentation of these works alongside those by many other prominent artists from the Global South is significant as it brings long-overdue recognition to the artists and their artworks, and inspires further research. In addition to those presented at the Biennale Arte 2024, works from the collection of National Gallery Singapore have also been loaned to numerous other international platforms, most recently the 11th Taipei Biennial (2018), the 58th Carnegie International (2022–2023), and the 15th Sharjah Biennial (2023). The Gallery has also collaborated with institutions such as Centre Pompidou, Musée d’Orsay, Tate Britain, National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (MOMAT), and National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea (MMCA) to present Southeast Asian art in an international context. “Other” Modernisms, Migration and Colonialism at Biennale Arte 2024 In his curatorial statement for Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere, Adriano Pedrosa describes the movement of European modernism and its ideas beyond Europe, and the movement of artists from the Global South in the reverse, declaring one of the key themes of Biennale Arte 2024 to be migration, and that its primary focus is “artists who are themselves foreigners, immigrants, expatriates, diasporic, émigrés, exiled, or refugee.” This perspective is reflected in the works selected from the National Gallery Singapore collection, as many of the Southeast Asian artists presented spent considerable periods in the cosmopolitan centres of Europe and the United States, and beyond. Horikawa Lisa, Senior Curator and Director (Curatorial & Collections) at the National Gallery Singapore, notes: “In his curatorial statement for Biennale Arte 2024, Adriano Pedrosa calls for a recognition of the modernisms beyond that of Europe and America, underscoring the importance of learning about and from these histories. The inclusion of these eight works in “Nucleo Storico” is thus exemplary: through these portraits, the divergent paths to modernisms taken by artists from Southeast Asia are illuminated.” Artists who were prominent in their time often faded into relative obscurity over the course of the 20th century, and three of the eight works from the Gallery’s collection are by women artists whose practices and biographies suggest the critical gains that can be made when efforts are made to recover them for wider recognition. One such artist is Georgette Chen (China/Singapore), who was born to a life of privilege and spent formative years in Shanghai, New York and Paris — all cities in which she received formal art training and later held solo exhibitions — before settling permanently in Singapore. Despite being one of the most well-exhibited Chinese artists in Paris during the inter-war period, Chen’s significance has been overlooked in Chinese art history, with the most comprehensive retrospective of Chen only taking place in 2020 at National Gallery Singapore. Visitors to the “Nucleo Storico” will see her Self-Portrait from 1946, in which Chen confronts the viewer with her assured and confident gaze as an artist. Pioneer artists like Chen offer a window into the experiences of women artists in Singapore at the time. Lai Foong Moi (Malaysia/Singapore) was the first graduate from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts Singapore to further her education in France, enrolling at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris on a French government scholarship. Well-known for landscapes and for portraits, in paintings such Labourer (Lunch Break) from 1965 presented in “Nucleo Storico”, Lai brought together realist and modernist techniques to examine the intersectionality of gender and class. Lai was once lauded as the first Malaya-born woman to hold a solo exhibition in Singapore but this early success did not translate to posterity. It is only in recent years that her works have gained greater recognition and can today be seen in the DBS Singapore Gallery, National Gallery Singapore’s permanent exhibition of Singapore art. Another woman artist who experienced considerable success in her time before virtually disappearing from view is Emiria Sunassa (Indonesia). At the same time, gender does not account for Emiria’s singularity, which takes on almost mythical proportions. She appears in art and archival records across the vast Indonesian archipelago, variously as a nurse, plantation administrator and cabaret singer, before joining PERSAGI, a progressive group of artists in 1930s and 1940s working in Batavia (now Jakarta) that advocated for modern painting to reflect the realities of life in the Dutch East Indies. Emiria also claimed to be a princess of the Tidore sultanate in eastern Indonesia and was active in the struggle for West Papuan independence. Her work was often preoccupied with depicting those at the margins — women as well as Indigenous groups from the eastern part of Indonesia. Recent research has been undertaken on artworks by Emiria, including Orang Irian dengan burung tjenderawasih (Irian Man with Bird of Paradise) from 1948 presented in “Nucleo Storico”, which can be understood in terms of a complex matrix of advocacy and exoticisation. The “Nucleo Storico” section of the Main Exhibition attempts to problematise the boundaries and definitions of modernism, bringing the issue of “canon” to the fore. Like many of the artists in this exhibition, those from the Gallery’s collection have each achieved significant status in Southeast Asia, particularly in the art histories of Indonesia, Singapore and Vietnam. A leading 20th -century artist, Lê Phổ (Vietnam/France) demonstrates the dynamic of artists from the periphery who travelled to and settled in colonial metropolitan centres. After attending the art school set up by the French in Hanoi, he migrated to Paris in 1937, where he lived until his death in 2001. Lê forged his own path towards modernism, developing a distinctive aesthetic of highly stylised images in a linear manner. His work in “Nucleo Storico”, Jeune fille en blanc (Young Girl in White) from 1931, is a portrait of a woman with a colophon from a Vietnamese poem — here the restrained harmony of pale tones conveying a more traditional image of loyalty and duty. This major acquisition was recently unveiled at the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, National Gallery Singapore’s permanent exhibition of art from the region, and travels to the Biennale Arte 2024 to be generously shared with international audiences. Biographical recounting of the trajectories of modernists from the 20th century can belie their ambitions and achievements, which so often exceeded the expectations and limitations imposed by the colonial milieux. This is the case for Lê Phổ and also for Affandi (Indonesia), an auto-didact who started painting in his twenties and further honed his craft in artist-led communities during the Indonesian National Revolution. Following his invitation to Santiniketan on a scholarship sponsored by the Indian government from 1949 to 1951, he travelled and exhibited extensively across Asia, Europe and the Americas, synthesising influences and inspiration. Affandi participates in the “Nucleo Storico” with Self-Portrait from 1975, his face powerfully and hauntingly rendered by green, red and ochre paint squeezed directly onto the canvas. Affandi stands out for having been well-exhibited on international platforms such as in the São Paulo Biennale in 1953 and the Venice Biennale in 1954, and is a reminder of the South-South connections that animated many artists in the mid-to-late 20th century. Horikawa Lisa adds: “Through its research and exhibitions, National Gallery Singapore articulates an approach to Southeast Asia art history that seeks not to add the region’s artists to a so-called ‘global canon’, but instead to inflect and infect the very concept. I am excited to see what can happen now that works from our collection take their place alongside artists from the Global South in this historic congregation.” Another key theme stated by Pedrosa in his curatorial statement for Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere is decolonisation. It is therefore apt that artists concerned with realism and the realities of struggles for independence and the shaping of political and cultural identity in the postcolonial nation state are among those chosen from the Gallery’s collection. Pedrosa has also highlighted the exceptional inclusion of artists from Singapore: while no longer considered to be part of the Global South, these works were created when the country was part of the Third World. In some ways the work by Lim Mu Hue (Singapore), which spanned printmaking to painting to relief sculpture, indexes the change in Singapore before and after its independence as a city state in 1965. Self-Expression (c.1957/1963) in the “Nucleo Storico” reveals a personal artistic ambition and anxiety that echoed Singapore’s nation-building sentiments and challenges: in this realist self-portrait Lim looks out the viewer with his left eye, while his studio and the abstract artworks within are reflected in the lens of the eyeglass he wears over the other. Here the artist confidently experiments with modern Western art styles while maintaining an unflinching realist gaze on conditions in Singapore. ▪ Another Singapore artist who paid keen attention to nation building in Singapore is Chua Mia Tee (China/Singapore), a realist painter who created some of the most iconic artworks in Singapore’s history and who was a core member of the Equator Arts Society, a group that promulgated social realist art, believing in its role for depicting everyday life in Singapore and uplifting society. In Road Construction Worker (1955) in “Nucleo Storico”, we see Chua’s insistence on high realism against the trend towards abstraction in the mid-20th century: he paints an unnamed labourer, paying attention to his scraggy build, sweat, and arms veined by manual labour. The wistful eye contact he makes with the viewer suggests that the painting is a reminder of the hardship experienced by migrant workers who were key to Singapore’s infrastructural development and is a tribute to their contributions. ▪ The intersection of art, postcolonial politics and the personal in Southeast Asiacontinues with the inclusion of Hendra Gunawan (Indonesia), who like Affandi isamongst the most prolific and renowned painters of the country. Also largely self-taught, his practice espoused socialist principles of communal living and cooperative work, and he founded several key artist groups in Indonesia. Gunawan was imprisoned in 1965 due to his associations with an alleged communist faction in Indonesia, which was likely when My Family (1968), presented in “Nucleo Storico”, was painted. In this portrait of the artist and his family we see the bold colours, textile-like patterns and sinuous brushstrokes the artist is known for, as well as his lyrical and even dream-like weaving of quotidian existence and the political — in the background is a crowd and a nondescript building, possibly the prison in Bandung in which he was detained. The 60th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia opens 20 April and runs until 24 November 2024. Pavilion of Singapore features Seeing Forest by Robert Zhao Renhui In addition to the Main Exhibition, Singapore is also officially represented in Venice by way of the Pavilion of Singapore with Seeing Forest, an exhibition by Singaporean artist Robert Zhao Renhui in collaboration with curator Haeju Kim, presented at the Arsenale’s Sale d’Armi building. This is commissioned by the National Arts Council, Singapore, supported by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and organised by Singapore Art Museum (SAM). For more information, visit http://bit.ly/SGPavilionVenice2024.

Singapore's New Hangout Spot Blending Asian Fusion Cuisine with Lighthearted Vibes Nestled in the heart of the city, Offbeat is a place where flavors, vibes, and good times converge seamlessly Offbeat, the newest endeavour by Coq & Balls, officially opened its doors one week ago, on Monday, 18 March, inviting diners to experience a unique blend of Asian fusion cuisine in a laid-back setting. Located at 40 Pekin St, #01-01 Far East Square, Offbeat promises a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is adorned with Balinese-inspired accents and flexible seating arrangements and ensures an unforgettable dining experience. Explore their diverse menu of Asian fusion delights, expertly crafted to ignite your senses. Offbeat caters to those seeking a lighthearted break during the day or a relaxing evening after work. With its chill atmosphere, and indoor-outdoor seating options, Offbeat sets the stage for memorable dining experiences. Offbeat offers a tantalising menu curated to delight the senses. From inventive appetisers to sumptuous main courses, each dish is crafted with precision and flair, promising a culinary journey like no other. While Offbeat focuses on delivering exceptional dining experiences, it also offers a range of enticing promotions to enhance the overall visit. Patrons can indulge in daily happy hour specials, featuring pints of beer starting from just $8.90, and enjoy exclusive ladies' nights on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, with irresistible deals on Prosecco, shooters, and champagne. We went over to OffBeat one lovely evening and was amazed by the charming decor; instantly, we also worked with our host, Aimee, and checked-in with her, to have a go for the evening's lovely menu that awaits us... We ordered a dish from the Flame Grill section, and two dishes from the starters, comprising of a Carnivore Platter - nicely done Kurobuta Pork Belly which came in a nice Skewer set of 2 Sticks, melangé with Tomato confit and Teriyaki glaze and some Wagyu Chuck Short Ribs well prepared with Chef's seasoning. We also had the Ajunma Squid Ink Pancake that arrived in a delightful platter comprising of neatly arranged prices overflowing with oyster, prawn, zucchini, garlic chive, tobiko & sweet spicy soy, simple immaculate! Our other starter, the Salmon Tartare & Chips was presented in a format of marinated raw salmon, avocado, tobiko & black sesame rice cracker, exquisite, and it flowed well with our cocktails! Such a delight! We has a classique Old-Fashioned as well as a Margarita to start off our get-together, it was nicely done, superb, and very nostalgic! We like the way how they prepared it, and also a good showcase of the mixologist's skillset of cocktails.. Whether you're craving a casual meal with friends, a romantic dinner for two, or a lively night out, Offbeat invites you to step into a world of culinary delights and good vibes, so you can complement your entire dining experience with their enticing array of monthly culinary promotions which is designed to elevate every visit. For further details about Offbeat and our offerings, visit https://offbeatsg.com/ or follow them on Instagram at @offbeat_sg. Location 40 Pekin St, #01-01 Far East Square Singapore 048770 Opening hours Mon - Thu: 11:30 am - 11:00 pm Fri: 11:30 am - 12:30 am Sat: 11:30 am - 12:00 am Sun: Closed PH: 5:30 pm - 11 pm Contact +65 6322 3835 Contact on WhatsApp

Context & Parameters "The strong roster of prominent brands, retailers, airports, and landlords committed to the TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference 2024 is highly encouraging, with the list continuing to grow. This diverse mix, which includes both long-standing attendees and newcomers, underscores the event's significance in duty free and travel retail. We eagerly anticipate yet another successful gathering in Singapore and look forward to extending a warm welcome to all delegates." - Erik Juul-Mortensen, TFWA President Asia Pacific now faces inflationary pressures and reduced Chinese momentum as the region grows. After opening addresses from the presidents of TFWA and APTRA and a welcome by Singapore's Minister of Trade and Industry, MOS Mr Alvin Tan, the Conference will survey the commercial landscape from three perspectives. Author and economist Keyu Jin, a professor at the London School of Economics, assesses Asia Pacific’s economic outlook. Business and marketing expert Nirmala Kumar looks at the rise of India. Finally, physicist Dr Michio Kaku examines emerging trends in tech innovation across the region. The morning will be moderated by TFWA Conference Director Michele Miranda alongside tech entrepreneur and co-founder of AirAsiaX Azran Osman-Rani. MOS Alvin Tan spoke about Singapore being a Tax free and a Stress free country; superb for business and Singapore’s resonance and orientation towards Investments in infrastructural development.. whilst Dr Keyu Jin (such an eloquent speaker) addressed on points guilding Innovation, Productivity Growth, Technology capacity, the notion of the global Savings mindset and whether friendshoring is a good idea in the current geo-political climate… and I was impressed by the agenda from Dr Michio Kaku that Hi Touch is always more impressive than Hi Tech, The power of Blinking in the era of modern devices and the reality of supersonic travel and space tourism.. This year’s TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference (12-16 May in Singapore saw a fresh emphasis on environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives to reflect regional traveller attitudes. High Expectations While sustainability has assumed growing significance for travellers in recent years, new research suggests it is now a core concern among Asia Pacific’s leading duty free shoppers. Fully 81% of Chinese international passengers think it important to have reduced or eco-friendly packaging in DF&TR outlets, according to the latest TFWA / m1nd-set study of Chinese travel retail shopping behaviour. That figure is substantially higher than the global average of 61%. Serious players in Asia Pacific duty free must be ready to meet such high expectations of their ESG strategy. TFWA President Welcome Speech TFWA President states now is the time to adapt to meet traveller expectations in order to capitalise on the dynamic potential of the APAC region Welcoming attendees to TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference, TFWA President Erik Juul-Mortensen remarked that it is a real pleasure to be back here “in the Lion City.” He said: “Asia Pacific has powered duty free and travel retail’s growth over the last three decades and is rapidly regaining momentum following the difficult Covid years… As always, we at TFWA are grateful to you, our exhibitors and visitors, for your continued support.” Juul-Mortensen went on to speak on how, as 2024 will be his final year as TFWA President, this will be the last TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference he attends in this capacity. Juul-Mortensen expressed how it has been a pleasure to see Asia Pacific fulfil the potential recognised by TFWA when it first launched this event. Patience needed amidst slow recovery of Chinese market Juul-Mortensen went on to speak about the state of the duty free and travel retail industry across the Asia Pacific region. “While this region’s dynamic potential is undoubted, the current market presents a more nuanced picture. The rate of post-pandemic recovery varies widely across Asia Pacific. Last year, passenger traffic at both Hong Kong and Macau International Airports reached just 55% of its 2019 level. In Malaysia, 2023 passenger volumes returned faster at 78% of their pre-Covid total. Changi Airport fared even better, seeing 86% of the 2019 passenger count pass through its terminals last year. Mumbai International Airport in India heads the pack however, serving 10% more passengers last year than in 2019.” Juul-Mortensen then addressed concerns over the Chinese market, urging delegates to keep things in perspective moving forward. “Economic conditions today in China are a concern for many duty free and travel retail professionals, with a troubled property sector, weak consumer confidence and lower GDP growth than in recent years. The country’s shoppers are understandably cautious when it comes to spending. The return to international travel after Covid restrictions has been slow so far. “The crackdown on the daigou market has impacted sales, particularly in Korea. Focusing on genuine travellers, rather than traders who buy on behalf of others, is vital to ensure a healthy duty free market that is viable in the long term. Korea’s recent introduction of purchase limits and regulation of bulk shipments is an important step in the right direction. “When analysing the Chinese market overall, I think we need to keep things in perspective. The government’s target of around 5% for GDP growth still beats most other leading economies. A recent Bain & Company report underlines China’s status as a major luxury market, with significant spending growth forecast for outbound citizens visiting Europe and the rest of Asia. Bain believes China will account for over a third of global luxury spending by 2030, up from less than a quarter last year. “There’s also a growing pride in the quality of premium Asian brands, with 85% of Chinese consumers intending to spend more on them according to a new Bluebell Group survey. Visa-free travel to other Asian countries is boosting Chinese visitor numbers in Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, and this trend will spread to other cities during the year. China’s recovery may be taking longer than some anticipated, but this major market will remain an industry powerhouse.” A positive outlook elsewhere in the region – with India poised to drive duty free and travel retail sales for years to come Juul-Mortensen then spoke about high performing markets elsewhere in the Asia Pacific region, noting that India in particular is poised to become another major source of travelling shoppers. “There is, of course, another regional giant whose rapid development will drive duty free and travel retail sales across Asia Pacific and beyond for years to come. India currently has 149 civil airports, twice the number it had a decade ago. Nine more are approved or construction work has already started, while many others are planned. Delhi and Mumbai are both gaining second airports, and there is even talk of a third one for Mumbai. Consultancy CAPA India expects outbound international departures by Indian residents to increase from 17.4 million in 2019 to over 50 million in 2030. “The outlook for duty free and travel retail elsewhere in Asia Pacific is positive, too. ACI World predicts the region’s passenger traffic will be back above 2019 volumes by the end of this year. Longer term, Airbus thinks Asian passenger flows will grow roughly twice as fast as the global average, and two to three times faster than Europe and North America, for the next 20 years. The indications are for plenty of footfall in airport terminals. Our collective job is to keep the retail offer to passengers fresh and relevant. “Traveller expectations are continually evolving. Since the pandemic and the drop-off in revenge shopping, it's proving harder to raise spend per head. The current trend for travel retail exclusive products, limited editions and more personalisation brings opportunities to trade shoppers up. Passengers’ desire for experiences rather than just shopping is a chance to create more engaging activations, one that some brands and retailers are seizing in impressive style. AI seems to be the flavour of the year, but beyond the hype, it may well have an important role to play in CRM and tailoring duty free and travel retail marketing more closely to traveller preferences.” The cruise potential The TFWA President then turned his attention to the noteworthy growth of the duty free and travel retail industry within the cruise market. “The cruise industry is achieving impressive growth, albeit from a more modest base. Trade body the Cruise Lines International Association forecasts cruise passenger numbers doubling between 2022 and 2027 to around 40 million per year. Asia Pacific accounted for a quarter of those passengers in 2022. This is a sector worth watching in Asia Pacific, especially since cruise passengers spend more on average than air passengers.” Dependable data is essential for growth of the industry Juul-Mortensen then explored the importance of obtaining reliable and consistent industry data and noted his concern over the lack of reliable, consistent market data, accessible to all, that we can use to measure our individual and collective performances, spot emerging trends and plan for the future. “There is plenty of data in the industry, but there is also a deep reluctance to share it more widely. I find it a bit ironic that, while AI and machine-learning enable businesses to make better use than ever before of their sales and marketing data, duty free and travel retail’s failure to collaborate on this crucial point leaves our market intelligence stuck in the digital dark ages. “At TFWA we are actively seeking to increase market knowledge among stakeholders in this channel. We have doubled our investment in TFWA-commissioned research this year, aiming to provide actionable insights that will benefit all our members and, through webinars and workshops like the one on Wednesday morning, the wider industry. In addition to Pi Insight’s findings on dwell-time behaviour, that workshop will feature analysis of the Asia Pacific region by consultants Kearney.” The TFWA President went on to elaborate on his second major concern, the lack of an industry-wide approach to sustainability, which continues to top the list of traveller preoccupations, especially among the Gen Z passengers who will increasingly dominate the market in the years to come. “Of course, progress has been made on environmental, social and governance questions by industry stakeholders within duty free and travel retail, but these initiatives tend to be isolated. There is, at present, no industry-wide approach, no coherent labelling or in-store communication that shows we understand and share travellers’ strength of feeling on this fundamental point.” The fight against illicit trade Juul-Mortensen then reiterated TFWA’s commitment to the Duty Free: Trusted, Transparent, Secure campaign. Formed by TFWA and the Duty Free World Council, the campaign aims to underline a zero-tolerance approach to illicit trade, counterfeiting and intellectual property theft across duty free and travel retail. “Duty free and travel retail has one of the most transparent, trusted and secure supply chains in the world. We can be proud of our industry’s credentials and are committed to maintaining these high standards. Many of our industry’s leading players, such as Avolta, Lagardère Travel Retail and Gebr. Heinemann, along with key players in this region like King Power and Delhi Duty Free, have already joined the campaign, and I urge the rest of the industry to follow suit. “The need for strong, public commitment to probity is illustrated by the World Health Organisation’s misplaced efforts to link duty free and travel retail with illicit trade in tobacco products as part of its Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. “The latest development in this matter is a decision in February by the Parties to the WHO’s Illicit Trade Protocol to proceed with evidence-based research to, and I quote, “ascertain the extent of illicit trade in tobacco products related to duty free”. The WHO seems to have already decided our industry is guilty and suggests it is just a question of how guilty. Nonetheless, we welcome the decision to conduct evidence-based research, as it provides us with an opportunity to show we are partners in the fight against illicit trade, not contributors to it.” The APAC region provides plenty of reasons for optimism Juul-Mortensen concluded his speech by emphasising the numerous factors that give the industry reason to feel confident going forward. “To conclude, the fundamentals for duty free and travel retail are sound in this, the industry’s biggest region by turnover. Passengers are travelling again, with outbound traffic from China set to accelerate as the year progresses. India is destined to become another major source of travelling shoppers. With the mix of passenger nationalities evolving and their preferences changing, we must adapt our offer accordingly and create more engaging activations to better reach travelling shoppers. As an industry, we must get a tighter grip on our market through data-sharing, and show travellers a more serious, coherent approach to sustainability.” Event Programming TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference will present numerous opportunities for participants to meet and connect in person. The TFWA ONE2ONE personalised meeting service will provide a platform for formal meetings between eligible exhibitors, retailers, landlords, agents and distributors, with onsite facilities available from Monday to Thursday. Attendees can also anticipate a wealth of insights during two workshops taking place during the event. The first of these, ‘China Watch’, in partnership with Xiaohongshu, will be moderated by TFWA’s Chief China Representative Hannah Gao and will take place from 8 to 9am on Tuesday, 14th May and will explore the latest developments and opportunities in the region, current digital trends and the consumption behaviour of Chinese travellers. The session will feature insights from *Ma Yan*, General Manager at Sino-Singapore Chongqing Airport Commercial Management Co. Ltd.; Matt Liao, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Branding and PR at China Duty Free Group; and Keith Chen, Director - Global Travel Retail, Luxury Jewelry, and Fashion Accessories Business Group at Xiahongshu.* Festivities The event began with the annual pre-event cocktail party at Gardens by the Bay, where delegates were treated to an evening of fiery dragon theming, wonderful cuisine, lovely drinks, Ai photo booth and candy delight (featuring a golden dragon) along with awesome networking and catch-up with associates, partners and friends in the travel retail industry from all around the world. On Day 3 of the program, delegates were once again, treated to a lovely networking party at Southside in Sentosa, at the Singapore Social Club, with dazzling lights, cocktail theming, a plethora of food and drinks, live music and splendid networking, to end the festivities of a successful TFWA event before Day 4 of the event. Once again, well-attended networking events reaffirmed that in-person gatherings remain a priority for industry colleagues across all sectors. 1,181 guests attended the opening ‘Welcome Cocktail’ event at the Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, up from 1,016 last year and a record for Singapore. On Wednesday night, 650 guests were at the Full Moon party at the Singapore Social Club in Sentosa, also a record for TFWA’s mid-week social events in Singapore. The TFWA Asia Pacific Lounge welcomed over 600 guests each evening. Another change for this year sees the Exhibition doors open at 14:30 on Monday, giving delegates an additional afternoon to view participating brands and discover new ways to engage travellers at innovation showcase TFWA i.lab Asia. For more information on the proceedings of the conference and exhibition, pls refer to https://www.tfwa.com/tfwa-asia-pacific-exhibition-conference Post-Event Update The 2024 TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference ended on a high, with the Association confirming that 3,126 visitors attended. The number of representatives from duty free and travel retail operators and landlords stood at 1,208. The TFWA Asia Pacific Conference on Monday 13th May drew a substantial audience, with the number of delegates attending similar to last year. 222 delegates attended the China Watch workshop on Tuesday 14th May, while 151 were at the Decoding Today’s Dwell Time workshop on Wednesday 15th May. With 234 exhibitors and a floor space of 9,750m2, the TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition was also a quantifiable success. 75 of these exhibitors, comprised of both emerging and established names in duty free and travel retail, were new additions to the show floor or those returning after an absence. Following the success of the 2024 summit, TFWA has announced the dates for the 2025 TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference. The event will take place from 11th to 15th May 2025 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore. (Text Credit: TFWA Press Office and Rosette Media Editorial team)

Lauded as “Singapore’s Top Restaurant” by Wine & Dine, WOK°15 Kitchen radiates the spirit of the sea by featuring fresh live seafood for selection from the aquarium. Savour classic Cantonese dishes prepared using fresh seasonal produce, presented with modern artistic flair. WOK°15 Kitchen Unveils Exquisite New Menu at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove Singapore and we have the opportunity to sample the new menu under the auspices of Chef Chung and Outlet Manager Nancy Chow.. The new menu celebrates the traditional and iconic tastes of Cantonese cuisine while infusing luxurious twists with premium ingredients. WOK°15 Kitchen, ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove Singapore’s award- winning Cantonese restaurant proudly introduces its latest menu, honouring beloved classics while introducing modern creations to tantalise the taste buds of diners. With over 35 new additions, the menu now boasts an impressive selection of 118 scrumptious dishes, including succulent roasted meats, hearty soups, a diverse assortment of both dried and live seafood and meat, as well as vegetarian selections, offering an array of choices for every palate. WOK°15 Kitchen radiates the spirit of the sea by featuring fresh live seafood for selection from the aquarium. Diners can select from a variety of fish, mud crab, tiger prawn, Boston lobster, and many more, cooked to perfection according to their preferences. From delicate sashimi to Singapore-style chilli sauce and baked with salted egg yolk, the menu offers an abundance of options, ensuring a feast for seafood enthusiasts. Calista Tan, Marketing Manager of ONE°15 Marina, extends a warm invitation to family and corporate groups to indulge in the new menu at WOK°15 Kitchen. "Our expansive new menu presents a diverse selection of dishes tailored to please seafood aficionados, meat connoisseurs, and vegetarians alike. At WOK°15 Kitchen, we ensure a delightful experience for all” . Starting with the well-loved appetiser infused with a little heat, 口水鸡 Chilled Poached Chicken (S$16) or chilled poached chicken with Sichuan chilli is the perfect choice. Incredibly flavourful, juicy, and delicious, the meticulously marinated chicken, well-seasoned with a combination of herbs, spices, and aromatics, is tender and juicy, with a moist texture that practically melts in the mouth, leaving everyone craving for more with every bite. Next is the restaurant’s signature menu, 米酒鸡 Sakura Chicken Simmered in Rice Wine (S$28), served with small black fungus, parsley, and ginger, which offers a unique creamy flavour with a subtle wine fragrance. The subtle sweetness from the tender Sakura chicken pairs perfectly with the crunchy small black fungus and freshness from parsley. Seafood enthusiasts cannot miss the exquisite 葡汁金瓜海霸王 Seafood Treasures with Portuguese Sauce (S$30), which showcases premium seafood, such as 10-head abalone, prawns and scallops, cooked to perfection and paired with a thick creamy Portuguese sauce. This dish is served in a beautifully crafted whole pumpkin, infusing the seafood with a subtle sweetness from the pumpkin flesh. Not to be missed is the flavourful and tender 蟹肉桃胶白花酿鱼鳔 Braised Fish Maw, Crab Meat and Peach Gum (S$28). The steamed spongy fish maw and prawn paste are delicately soaked in a savoury and umami gravy, complemented by crab meat and peach gum, adding sweetness and a refreshing flavour to the dish. Another signature is the 金汤海鲜石榴球 Braised Seafood in Egg White Parcel with Carrot Soup (S$18 per person)- this was so delicious!, featuring a medley of scallop, prawn and diced chicken, enveloped in light and fluffy egg white skin. The addition of water chestnut and celery within the parcel lends a crunchy texture to the dish. Served in a vibrant sea of creamy carrot soup, this dish delivers a harmonious blend of sweet and savoury flavours, offering comfort and warmth with every spoonful. Among the highlights is 豆酥蒸笋壳 Steamed Marble Goby with Soy Meat Floss (S$16 per 100g) a true gourmet delight, which features housemade soy meat floss, showcasing the natural sweetness and tenderness of the red grouper complemented by the nutty notes of the soy meat floss, creating a balanced and flavourful dish. For a sophisticated indulgence, diners can savour 白松露菌油西施加拿大带子 Sautéed Canadian Scallops with Egg White and Truffle Oil (S$32). These sweet and delicate scallops are seared to perfection, boasting a caramelised texture on the outside while remaining juicy and tender inside. Topped with the intense earthy aroma of truffle oil, this dish offers a luxurious touch that elevates the dining experience. Those seeking a spicy kick can indulge in the 特制奶辣虾球 Sautéed King Prawn Balls in Spicy Cream Sauce (S$30) - truly fabulous and full of umami, featuring succulent king prawns paired with a creamy sauce infused with thefragrance chilli oil. The creaminess of the sauce balances the spiciness, creating a harmonious blend of flavours, offering a rich, savoury flavour with a creamy texture that coats the palate. For meat lovers, 古法广式京烤骨配黄金小馒头 Traditional Cantonese-style Braised Pork Ribs, served with Fried Chinese Steamed Buns (S$30) is a must-try. Prepared using a traditional recipe infused with red yeast rice vinegar, lending the dish its vibrant red colour, the tender pork ribs offer a refreshing and savoury experience. Paired with crispy fried Chinese steamed buns, perfect for dipping into the savoury sauce. Alternatively, for those who prefer beef, the 蒜片爆安格斯牛柳粒 Black Angus Beef Cubes with Garlic Flakes (S$36) beckon, lotsa taste and I don't really like Garlic flakes but this is so well done. Each satisfying bite of premium beef cubes is infused with the enticing aroma of garlic. Every mouthful bursts umami-rich flavours that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Next in line is the 妙酱烧肉炒芥兰 Sautéed Pork Belly with Kai Lan (S$26). Indulge in the beloved succulence of crispy roasted pork belly, expertly wok-fried alongside crunchy kai lan and tossed with the special house sauce—a classic combination that has won over countless palates. Ensuring there is something for everyone at WOK°15 Kitchen, the menu includes many vegetarian specials catering to vegetarian or green lovers. Among these options is the 七味脆豆腐 Deep-fried Beancurd Cubes with Japanese Seven-Spiced Pepper (S$14), known for its crispy yet soft texture. The dish offers subtle spiciness with a nuanced blend of Japanese-inspired flavours, providing a satisfying crunch paired with fragrant and aromatic seasoning—a delightful appetiser or snack option. Another standout on the menu is the 田翠八地仙 WOK’s Greens (S$26), featuring US asparagus, celery, ginkgo nuts, and duo-coloured fungus. Prepared with reduced oil and salt, this dish emphasises the freshness of its ingredients. It offers a delightful and nutritious option, celebrating the natural goodness, making it the perfect choice for health-conscious diners. Nestled within Sentosa Cove, WOK°15 Kitchen offers an inviting ambience with spectacular view of the marina, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable dining experiences. Private dining rooms overlooking the marina are available for business and social functions, ensuring every occasion is celebrated in style. For enquiries or reservations, please contact wok15.sc@one15marina.com or visit https://one15marina.com/wok15. Please note that all prices are subject to prevailing government tax (9%) and 10% service charge. Operating Hours Lunch:Tuesday – Friday, 11.30am – 3pmSaturday, Sunday/ Public Holiday, 11am – 3pm Dinner:Tuesday – Sunday, 6pm – 10pm Closed on Mondays, except Public Holidays Contact Us +65 6305 6998/ +65 8500 1015 (WhatsApp only) wok15.sc@one15marina.com

EXCITING NEW FLAVOURS IN AN EXPANDED SELECTION OF HEARTY BEACH FOOD Coastes, Singapore!s popular beachfront bar and restaurant on Siloso Beach Sentosa, unveils its refreshed à la carte menu, now featuring an expanded selection of hearty mains, nutritious breakfast options, tempting beach bites, juicy burgers and more. For a revitalising start to the day or a leisurely brunch on the beach, Coastes has you covered with delectable breakfast offerings available bright and early from 9am to 3pm daily. Fuel up with Power Breakfast Bowl ($16++), a nutritious blend of fresh strawberries, marinated dragon fruit, toasted rolled oats and pumpkin seeds atop creamy Greek Yoghurt. For heartier appetites, indulge in the Spam & Egg Sandwich ($16++), a generous portion of lightly-crisped savoury spam with juicy burnt butter pineapple, sunny-side up egg and fresh arugula on a spread caramelised onion mayo in between toasted brioche bun. Savour the Mushroom Truffle & Poached Egg Muffin ($16++) or the Smoked Salmon & Scrambled Eggs ($18++) on dark rye sourdough for a brunch that’s both satisfying and decadent. From 11am onwards, diners can look forward to an expanded selection of hearty mains at Coastes, ranging from pastas and risottos to juicy burgers, pizzas, sandwiches and more to suit all palates and occasions. Brand new on the menu are a variety of Risottos, made with top-quality Acquerello Italian rice and deliciously infused with all-time favourite Coastes flavours - like the Chilli Crab Risotto ($26++), a refined twist on the iconic Singaporean dish with chunks of blue crab cooked in a sweet, spicy sauce and topped with crunchy egg floss. The Orange & Thyme Chicken Risotto ($24++) features aromatic chicken infused with orange & thyme, with charred corn, Grana Padano cheese with a drizzle of vanilla bean oil. For seafood lovers, the Tiger Prawn & Bacon Risotto ($26++) and Chorizo & Baby Scallops Risotto ($26++) are sure to hit all the right spots. With pastas always a firm favourite among beach diners, Coastes tantalises with new choices including Truffle Sausage and Spinach Fettuccine ($24++), Pork Meatball Spaghetti ($24++) and Mushroom Aglio Olio ($22++). Adding more flavour to beach gatherings, the refreshed menu offers something for everyone from enticing seafood appetisers to new classic Roman pizzas and classic beach bites. Must-try dishes include the Cheese ’n Shroom Pizza ($30++), Crispy Battered Prawns ($20++) and of course, the signature Singapore-style prawn paste Coastes Golden Wings ($20++) - really good! Additionally, savour the succulence of Garlic Prawns ($22++)-so yummy! and take delight in the harmonious blend of Cured Salmon & Fennel with Cucumber Gazpacho ($20++), among other tempting choices. End your meal on a sweet note with new irresistible desserts such as the Strawberry Lava Cheesecake ($18++), creamy and airy cheesecake resting on a caramelised white chocolate base that embraces a delightful surprise of strawberry lava at its core or indulge in the Vanilla & Blackcurrant Panna Cotta ($16++) wow! featuring basil caviar. About Coastes Situated along a golden stretch of Sentosa's Siloso Beach, Coastes beach bar offers a rustic charm and casual, laid-back beach vibe where the sunbeds flow right to the water's edge. This breezy beach bar serves premium beers, spirits, tropical cocktails and hearty beach food. Tuck into generous servings of Coastes mouthwatering burgers, pizzas, pastas and delicious fresh seafood. Soak up the sun, sand and sea while relaxing to a mix of Balearic tunes as you sip on your ice-cold beer. Coastes is all you need for that idyllic island getaway. Operating Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 9am - 9.30pm Friday & Saturday: 9am - 10.30pm Website: www.coastes.com

World Ageing Festival 2024 Unites Global Innovators and Communities to Mark its 15-year Milestone Ageing Asia is Asia Pacific’s first industry alliance on the business of ageing. We are an independent network and social enterprise that seeks to unite business, government, community leaders and the media, to drive change for APAC’s ageing landscape. Our vision is to lead an advocacy and educational role in improving quality and standards of eldercare, nurture partnerships and curate development of solutions that address the new opportunities and market demands of the ageing baby boomer population. Ageing Asia is a member of the Singapore Centre for Social Enterprise (raiSE) and Singapore Business Federation. Over 5,000 participants from 50 countries gathered today for the grand opening of the 15th edition of the World Ageing Festival 2024 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Hall C. As Asia’s leading platform for the ageing industry, this two-day festival features key events such as the 15th Ageing Asia Innovation Forum & Exhibition, SUSS Geronpreneurship Innovation Festival, Active Ageing Seminar, and the 12th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards. Gracing the occasion as the Guest-of-Honour was Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Singapore’s Minister for Social and Family Development, Second Minister for Health & Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs. Marking its 15-year milestone, the festival continues to be a vibrant showcase of innovation, offering valuable insights, networking opportunities, and cutting-edge advancements. Serving as a pivotal hub in eldercare, it brings together professionals, policymakers, community leaders, startups, and tech firms to drive collaboration and progress. At the heart of the festival, the Ageing Asia Innovation Exhibition unveiled over 100 curated products spanning various categories, such as Assistive Living, Home & Community Care, Active Ageing, Technology, Rehabilitation and Wellness, designed to meet the evolving needs of our ageing population. Notably, the event celebrated the debut of innovations from 13 local companies at the Singapore pavilion organised by the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (ASME), underscoring the burgeoning creativity within the nation’s entrepreneurial ecosystem while facilitating opportunities for networking and collaboration. A standout feature of the SUSS Geronpreneurship Innovation Festival (GIF) organised by the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) was the Ageing Startup Pitch Stadium. This platform provides a stage for budding entrepreneurs and seasoned start-ups (see Annex for details on the finalists) to present their innovative solutions tailored to our region’s ageing demography. The pitch winner will be unveiled this evening and will take home a $4,000 cash prize, with the first and second runners-up receiving $2,500 and $1,000 respectively. Complementing this entrepreneurial showcase is a dedicated career fair addressing the employment needs of individuals seeking meaningful opportunities within the long-term care sector. The GIF is a key initiative under the Ngee Ann Kongsi (NAK) Social Impact Hub, established through SUSS with a generous S$10 million donation to the university. Professor Tan Tai Yong, President of the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), remarked, “I’m delighted that the GIF continues to drive major advancements in gerontechnology, which is pivotal for ensuring that our ageing population can live fulfilling lives. By harnessing technology tailored to the needs of older adults, we’re not just shaping a more age-friendly future, but also addressing critical challenges related to healthcare, social inclusion, and quality of life. As a leader in gerontology education and research, SUSS is committed to fostering collaborations and leading initiatives that contribute to a more inclusive and resilient society, empowering generations to thrive in an ever-evolving world.” The opening day was highlighted by captivating moments, including an attempt to secure a place in the Singapore Book of Records. Over 300 seniors and children joined forces for an Intergenerational Drumming Performance, epitomising the spirit of community and advocacy for active ageing. Many participants devoted the past two months to refining their rhythmic skills, with the eldest participant nearing their nineties. With a line-up boasting 100 distinguished speakers and a diverse array of exhibitors, the festival serves as a melting pot of transformative ideas and solutions in the field of eldercare. Key guests and speakers included: Madam Halimah Yacob, Chancellor, Singapore University of Social Sciences His Excellency Juha Markkanen, Ambassador of Finland to Singapore YB Dato Hajjah Hanifah Hajar Taib, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Economy, Malaysia Dr The Honourable Lam Ching-choi, SBS, JP, Member of the Executive Council, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, The People’s Republic of China, Chairman, Elderly Commission, Hong Kong SAR, CEO, Haven of Hope Christian Service, Hong Kong SAR China Mr Yoshiaki Takahashi, Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister Embassy of Japan Dr Tung Chen-Yuan, Representative, Taipei Representative Office in Singapore, Taiwan Dr Lily Kresnowati, Director of Health Service Assurance, Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial Kesehatan (BPJS) Professor Tan Tai Yong, President, Singapore University of Social Sciences Mr Andrew Cheah, Executive Director, Enterprise Experience, Enterprise Singapore Ms Janice Chia, Founder & Managing Director of Ageing Asia Pte Ltd, said, “As we gather to address the pressing needs of our ageing population, we recognise the pivotal role of collaboration and innovation. World Ageing Festival is the platform to forge industry connections and empower future generations to shape the eldercare landscape. With Singapore facing the challenges of a growing silver population, now is the time to harness the potential of ageing as an opportunity for social and economic advancement. Together, we can pioneer transformative solutions that benefit individuals, communities, and businesses alike.” For more information on Ageing Asia, please visit www.ageingasia.com.

ORIGIN GRILL INTRODUCES A SIZZLING NEW MENU, CELEBRATING THE MASTERY OF SMOKE AND FIRE Rosette Media Rating Panel : Overall Rating 9.2/10 Origin Grill aims to elevate the dining experience, offering their guests a journey through a symphony of tastes and textures, all expertly crafted over the flames of their Josper Grill (which is a brand synonymous with an enclosed charcoal oven where food is cooked at high temperatures and Josper Grill has developed over the past 50 years in the creation of technological and innovative wonders at the service of gastronomy and the demanding HoReCa sector). Upscale dining is common in European cuisine, where restaurants often focus on techniques and presentation rather than ingredients. However, recently, there has been an increase in mindful eating— diners care how the food on their plate got there and where it came from, so this was the perspective that attracted us to Origin Grill. Origin Grill is focused on the provenance of its ingredients, sourcing high-quality produce from environmentally responsible, artisan farmers both near and far, within Asia and out of Asia. Their relationship with their farmers enables Shangri-La Singapore to ethically source food from people who are passionate about their craft. For diners, that means every land, sea, and field ingredient is at its prime, with natural flavours shining through. Their curated wine selection compliments their exceptional ingredients and deepens the diners’ overall experience and their Head sommelier, Marcus sourced artisanal gems and rare, ancient grape varietals from around the world, and he gave us a truly astounding sharing on the choice of what we should drink, and also the nuances related to the choice of our Amarone Villa Matta, which is distinctly expressive in nature, and a somewhat different end-palate for this Valpolicella-based grape varietal. Their extensive wine list showcases over 45 varietals and their restaurant’s design evokes the romance and nostalgia of travelling by train, as we enjoyed the superb ambience with relaxing piped-in modern music. At the foyer, a moving mechanical objet d’art piques the imagination, reminiscent of a railway track. The tabletops are crafted like a chess board, matched with hand-stitched leather Tripolina chairs and curved rectangular benches made of wood and burgundy leather. As the aroma of freshly grilled delights wafts through the air, Origin Grill announces the launch of its new menu, set to redefine the culinary landscape of Shangri La Singapore. Bursting with robust flavours and innovation, this new menu is curated by newly minted Chef de Cuisine, Simon Bell and is enhanced by the artistry of smoke and fire on their Josper Grill. There is a key focus on the provenance of produce, and each dish they put on the table embodies their dedication to quality ingredients and authenticity. Origin Grill invites guests to a culinary experience that promises to excite the palates of seasoned grill aficionados and adventurous foodies alike, showcasing an array of enticing dishes meticulously prepared to perfection over an open flame. From succulent steaks charred to juicy perfection to grilled side dishes with the allure of smokey aromas, each dish on the new menu embodies the essence of bold flavours, emphasising the quality of their sourced produce and a commitment to excellence that has become synonymous with Origin Grill. One fine evening, we visited Origin Grill and were totally awed by the finesse, quality, innovation, standard and service of their entire menu offering... our first course accompanying our awesome Champagne from Michel LITTIERE are two pieces of Seasonal Oysters drizzled with a layer of tangy Tamarind, Calamansi, Chili, Gula Melaka and Coriander - truly embodies the theme of true seafood experience.. We can savour the succulence of the Hokkaido Scallop which was prepared with Kombu Butter, Cucumber and a burst of Sea Grapes, gently cooked to perfection with that awesome butter.. for the next dish.. We both ordered the Seafood Bisque , which comprise a Tiger Prawn, Mud Crab, Crème Fraiche and Chive; as a seafood enthusiasts I thoroughly enjoyed this as it was delicately paired with the creme fraiche, thus adding depth and complexity to the dish, imparting a savoury sweetness that enhances the natural flavours of the prawn and crab, imbibed with natural umami flavours from the broth sauce.. We waited eagerly for the arrival of our "Queen of the Appetizer section" - The Australian Bay Lobster, also known as Slipper Lobster or Bay Bug, that hails from the pristine coastal waters off the East Coast of Queensland, Australia. Renowned for its unrivalled taste and succulent texture, with its origins deeply rooted in the rich maritime heritage of Australia, each Slipper Lobster embodies a legacy of tradition, sustainability, and culinary excellence that continues to enchant discerning epicureans across the globe. The lobster tail undergoes a delicate grilling process over coals until it reaches sublime tenderness, and we could feel so rejuvenated with each bite. Elevating its flavour profile, this dish is adorned with slices of green apple that have been infused with yuzu liquor- truly classique (this is so amazing!). Accompanying the lobster is a refreshing salad inspired by the classic Waldorf salad, featuring fresh celery stems and leaves, red grapes, toasted walnuts, and a dressing crafted from egg, shio kombu, and grapeseed oil (we love the freshness and uniques of the quality of ingredients showcased in this dish) To add a final touch of culinary perfection, the dish is then crowned with a decadent beurre noisette (brown butter sauce) and a hint of dog fennel, imparting a delicate smoky aroma and irresistible taste. It's a truly sensational seafood delight, sure to enchant every palate. Just lovely and simply delicious! Josper Charcoal Grills Their steak selection stands out as a highlight on the menu. Each piece of meat undergoes a meticulous grilling process in the Josper oven, where they are exposed to a fusion of iron bark wood and charcoal, reaching temperatures of 400 degrees Celsius. This unique method imparts a delightful, charred finish, enriching their meats with a profound depth of flavour. In this new menu, they present a variety of six single cuts weighing between 200g – 300g each, as well as two large cuts weighing about 1kg, primarily sourced from Australia pastures. These selections reflect the culinary heritage of Chef Simon, who originated from the region. Two notable cuts that we truly enjoyed at Origin Grill - it's so good that we did not even have the capacity to have other main dishes on the menu.. There are 6 choices for Single-Cut and we sampled 2 of them, a Japanese and an Australian cut.. and we chose Peppercorn and Mushroom sauces to go with them.. we also ordered sides consisting of Fried Brussels Sprouts with O.G. Spice, Mustard & Lime, and Charred Carrots filled with Pumpkin Seed, Honey, Butter & Dill, to go with our Josper-centric Mains.. Kagoshima 200g A4 Craft Wagyu, Kyushu, Striploin A land signature, this succulent Kagoshima Striploin originates from an A4 Craft genre, absolutely tender and grilled at the Josper template to a medium rare format, oozes an earthy-umami sweetness and velvety consistency, truly offering a delightful contrast of textures as we relish each bite from the Kyushu region. This steak is highly recommended and it truly elevated our views of premium and genuine Wagyu Steak in Singapore, as it is truly tough to find a wholesome place that serves decent tender steak, grilled to perfection with the Josper Grill, not over-burnt, and not charred to the point of burnt bitterness, yet delivery a sense of umami in the taste delivery. An Amarone Villa Matta accompanied our pairing with this Kago-beauty! Stone Axe Full Blood Wagyu 400 days Grain-fed NSW Rump Cap MB9+ 200g Stone Axe Wagyu cattle originate from the pastures of New South Wales and Victoria, Australia. Raised in high-altitude pastures and grain-fed for 400 days, they develop an exceptional flavour profile and achieve a marble score of MB9+. The Rump Cap, also known as Picanha, is a lesser-known cut but at this marble score, it offers incredible tenderness while maintaining the classic Australian beef flavour. Perfect for seasoned steak enthusiasts seeking a new culinary adventure, this steak promises to deliver an unforgettable experience of flavour and tenderness. It's taste contrasts with the Kagoshima cut, as it is more ingrained in the bite department, but we love the MB9 feel, and we can just fathom the difference and the effort taken to raise this Stone Axe breed. We had a glass of Moss Wood Amy's from Margaret River , 2022 vintage, as Moss Wood is my fave brand from this region.. stunning! as part of the pairing process. Desserts In addition to the innovative main dishes, Origin Grill is proud to introduce a selection of tempting desserts created by their talented pastry chef Autumn Chin. With a deft touch and a keen eye for flavour harmonies, Chef Autumn elevates the sweet finale of each guest's dining experience to a whole new level. We had the Tres Leches a sweet combination of Milk, Orange, Mascarpone and Devil’s Chocolate Ice Cream, which agreed wholeheartedly with our sweet palates and also tagged along with the powerful Snickers dessert that was packed with Dark Chocolate, Nutella, Caramel and Salted Peanuts, extremely sinful but we loved it, and for the house-made gelato, we chose the brown bread, burnt honey, chocolate and vanilla, just simply classique yet delicious - the way we love it! About Chef Simon Bell Chef Simon Bell joined Origin Grill at Shangri-La Singapore as its Chef de Cuisine in December 2023. Originating from Australia, Chef Simon embarked on his culinary journey in 2008, immersing himself in various dining establishments within his homeland to master the intricacies of the food and beverage industry. To sum up his culinary ethos in one sentence, Chef Simon shares, “I enjoy cooking food for people who love to eat”. Joining Origin Grill at Shangri-La Singapore as its Chef de Cuisine,Chef Simon is poised to further accentuate Origin Grill’s dining concept with an introduction of new innovative menu dishes including elevating its signature Josper Charcoal Grilled Steaks with steak cuts which are less commonly offered, being bold with creations with a focus on flavours and taste, and with a new menu launch, he will also include an innovative incorporation of Southeast Asian influences to honour the vibrant and bold flavours of Asia. RESERVATIONS Origin Grill operates from Tuesday to Sunday, with operating hours from 12pm to 2.30pm and 6pm to 10pm. Location: Tower Wing, Lobby Level, 22 Orange Grove Road Email: dining.sls@shangri-la.com Phone: (65) 6213 4398 Operating Hours: Lunch Tuesday to Sunday (Monday Closed) 12:00pm to 2:30pm Last Order at 2:00pm Dinner Sunday - Thursday (Monday Closed) 6:00pm - 10:00pm Last Order at 9:30pm Friday and Saturday 6:00pm - 10:00pm First Seating: 6:00pm to 7:30pm Second Seating: 8:00pm to 10:00pm Last Order at 9:30pm You can reserve your seats in advance by calling 6213 4398 or ... visit https://www.shangri-la.com/singapore/shangrila/dining/restaurants/origin-grill/. For more information, follow them on their Instagram @origingrillsg.

Black Hat, the cybersecurity industry’s most established and in-depth security event series, today announced the release of its content lineup for Black Hat Asia 2024. The live, in-person event will take place at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore from April 16 to April 19. The event will feature 39 Briefings hand selected by the Black Hat Asia Review Board, four days of Trainings, over 25 Sponsored Sessions, and 60 Arsenal tool demos. Black Hat provides attendees with the latest in research, development, and trends in Information Security. Here the brightest professionals and researchers in the industry come together for a total of four days—two or four days of deeply technical hands-on Trainings, followed by two days of the latest research and vulnerability disclosures in the Briefings. Keynote - Securing Our Cyberspace Together David Koh  |  Commissioner of Cybersecurity and Chief Executive, Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore Date: Thursday, April 18 | 9:00am-10:00am ( Hibiscus Junior Ballroom 3610 ) Mr David Koh is Singapore's first Commissioner of Cybersecurity and the founding Chief Executive of the Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore. He is concurrently Chief (Digital Security & Technology) at the Ministry of Communications and Information. As Commissioner, he has the legal authority to investigate cyber threats and incidents to ensure that essential services are not disrupted in the event of a cyber-attack. As Chief Executive of CSA, he leads Singapore's efforts to provide dedicated and centralised oversight of national cyber security functions. These include enforcing the cybersecurity legislation; strategy and policy development; cyber security operations; ecosystem, R&D and capability development, public outreach and international engagement. Concurrently, as Chief (Digital Security & Technology), he oversees digital security policy and technology capability development in the Ministry of Communications and Information. Mr Koh also sits on the Boards of the Government Technology Agency (GovTech), the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) Cyber Security Advisory Panel and the Healthcare Cybersecurity Advisory Panel (HCAP). On April 18 and April 19, attendees will gain insight into the latest in information security risks, developments, and trends. Briefings highlights include: Operation PoisonedApple: Tracing Credit Card Information Theft to Payment Fraud – This talk will cover a series of hacking incidents that recently targeted over 50 online shopping malls, resulting in significant data breaches. While the threat group continues to carry out these attacks, researchers will examine their techniques, provide threat intelligence, and discuss potential countermeasures. Voice Phishing Syndicates Unmasked: An In-Depth Investigation and Exposure – This talk will explore social engineering techniques of select voice phishing attack groups, including the attack methods utilized in the August 2022 voice phishing incident in South Korea that resulted in $4.1 billion in damages. You Shall Not PASS - Analysing a NSO iOS Spyware Sample – This talk will analyze one of the most advanced malware samples from NSO’s BLASTPASS exploit chain, which used a PassKit file sent through iMessage to bypass Blast Door and infect iOS. Two- and four-day Trainings will take place from April 16 to April 19 and feature a variety of in-person and virtual courses in pentesting, network technology, open source intelligence (OSINT), and more. Trainings highlights include: A Practical Approach to Breaking & Pwning Kubernetes Clusters Assessing and Exploiting Control Systems and IIoT Fundamentals of Cyber Investigations and Human Intelligence Reverse Engineering Firmware with Ghidra Business Hall passes, or Business passes, are currently available for the 2024 event. The Business Hall showcases the latest products and technologies from leading information security solution providers, and will take place from April 18 to April 19. Business passes provide access to the Keynote, Arsenal, Sponsored Sessions, Bricks & Picks, and more. All Black Hat Asia 2024 pass holders will have access to the Business Hall. This year’s Black Hat Arsenal at Black Hat Asia will take place from April 18 to April 19. Black Hat Arsenal brings together researchers and the cybersecurity community to showcase and demonstrate their latest open-source tools and products in a conversational environment where presenters can interact with the attendees. This year’s event will feature 60 in-person tool demos spanning exploitation and ethical hacking, reverse engineering, Internet of Things (IoT), hardware, and more. Arsenal is now featuring the Lab at all regional events. The Arsenal Lab is an interactive, hands-on environment designed for hacking enthusiasts of all skill-level to learn about specialized tools and targets that may be difficult to access otherwise. Join our industry experts to discover new skills or take existing skills to the next level. Top Sponsors and Partners of Black Hat Asia 2024 include: Diamond Sponsors: Pentera.io, Carbon Black, Appdome, and Upwind Security. Platinum Sponsors: KnowBe4 and Snyk. Sustaining Partners: Armis, Axonius, Carbon Black, CrowdStrike, KnowBe4, ManageEngine, Qualys, SentinelOne, Snyk, Sophos, Sysdig, and Trend Micro. Global Partners: Armis, Carbon Black, KnowBe4, Snyk, Swimlane, and Varonis. For registration and additional information on Black Hat Asia 2024, please visit www.blackhat.com/asia-24. Post-Event Update Black Hat, the cybersecurity industry’s most established and in-depth security event series, today announced the successful completion of the in-person component of Black Hat Asia 2024. The event welcomed more than 3,000 unique attendees joining in-person from April 16 to April 19 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore. Security professionals from 81 countries registered to attend the event and experience firsthand the latest in vulnerability research, development, and trends in information security (InfoSec) through more than 40 Briefings. The program also included four days of deeply technical hands-on Trainings, over 25 Sponsored Sessions, and 60 in-person tool demos spanning exploitation and ethical hacking, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), application security (AppSec), Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), Internet of Things (IoT), and more. “Singapore and the wider region have a very strong cybersecurity community and Black Hat is honored to be a part of it,” said Steve Wylie, Vice President, Cybersecurity Market Group at Informa Tech. “We are grateful to our community, partners, and sponsors in coming together with a shared goal to protect the vital public and private-sector industries in the region.” Show highlights for 2024 included: Keynotes: The two Keynotes this year included David Koh, Singapore’s first Commissioner of Cybersecurity, the founding Chief Executive of the Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore, and Chief (Digital Security & Technology) at the Ministry of Communications and Information; and Ruimin He, Singapore’s Chief Artificial Intelligence (AI) Officer, the Singaporean government’s Deputy Chief Digital Technology Officer, and a member of the United Nations High-level Advisory Body on AI. He presented with Jeff Moss, Founder of Black Hat and DEF CON conferences, former Chief Security Officer and VP at ICANN, and current member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Advisory Council. Briefings: Black Hat Briefings took place on April 18 and April 19, and presented the latest in information security risks, research, and trends on topics covering everything from enterprise security, exploit development, reverse engineering, and more. Trainings: Black Hat Trainings were held from April 16 to April 19, and included two- and four-day, deeply technical, hands-on courses led by the information security industry’s top trainers and professionals. Courses covered a variety of topics, including pentesting, network technology, open source intelligence (OSINT), and more. This year’s event featured 10 in-person classes and 8 virtual classes. Business Hall: This year’s Business Hall showcased the latest products and technologies from more than 30 of the industry’s leading information security solution providers. The Business Hall also featured areas for attendee, vendor, and community engagement through Arsenal, Sponsored Sessions, Exhibitor Booths, Bricks & Picks, and more. Arsenal: Black Hat Arsenal brings together researchers and the cybersecurity community to showcase and demonstrate their latest open-source tools and products in a conversational environment where presenters can interact with the attendees. Akey component of Arsenal, the Arsenal Lab, is now featured at all regional events, and is an interactive, hands-on environment designed for hacking enthusiasts of all skill levels to learn about specialized tools and targets that may be difficult to access otherwise. This year’s event featured 60 in-person tool demos and six labs. Omdia Analyst Summit: The second annual Omdia Analyst Summit at Black Hat Asia featured the industry’s leading cybersecurity analysts and provided attendees with actionable insights, innovative approaches, and a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence cybersecurity outcomes for organizations within the Asia-Pacific region. Community Program: The Community Program included sessions that encouraged collaboration among attendees and presenters through discussions of current issues impacting the cybersecurity community. Topics covered inclusion, mental health, a Call for Papers (CFP) writing workshop, and more. Scholarships: As a way to introduce the next generation of security professionals to the Black Hat community, Black Hat Asia 2024 awarded 83 complimentary Briefings passes. Black Hat holds its own annual Student Scholarship programs, and partners with a variety of associations on additional scholarship opportunities. Network Operations Center (NOC): The Black Hat Network Operations Center (NOC) provided a high security, high availability network in an intensely demanding environment. Each year, the hand-selected NOC team meets before Black Hat Asia to incorporate the latest infrastructure and security solutions into a workable network design. Black Hat attendees may then visit the NOC for a glimpse into this state-of-the-art network. Top Sponsors and Partners of Black Hat Asia 2024 include: Diamond Sponsors: Pentera.io, Appdome, and Upwind Security. Platinum Sponsors: KnowBe4 and Snyk. Sustaining Partners: Armis, Axonius, CrowdStrike, KnowBe4, ManageEngine, Qualys, SentinelOne, Snyk, Sophos, Sysdig, and Trend Micro. Global Partners: Corellium, Hack The Box, HackerOne, KnowBe4, Snyk, Swimlane, Sysdig, and Varonis.

The Amauris hotel embodies the grandeur and grace of Vienna; truly modern yet classy, indeed A world of beauty surrounds this immaculate and gorgeous hotel, where the glamour of 19th century style meets contemporary elegance. OVERALL ROSETTE MEDIA : HOTEL & HOSPITALITY RATING 9/10 Nomenclature The Amauris is named after the genus of butterfly that the Great Monarch belongs to. Metaphorically speaking our guests are like the Great Monarch butterfly. One would say that butterflies are just pretty, but they are more than meets the eye. They travel miles and miles, they pollinate flowers, they are a messenger of change in the environment and incredibly inspiring in their beauty. They are a thing of intricate meaning and beauty. The Amauris see their guests as this beautiful butterfly, visitors from afar, exploring the refined qualities of our city and hotel, leaving transformed, with their own stories to tell. Offering an array of vivid experiences, those that linger like a dream. The Palais - The Building - The Foundation The early historical corner building, built by the renowned Austrian architects Willhelm von Flattrich and Carl Schumann, was initially used as a noble residence and was a popular meeting place for the Austrian nobility and upper class until the end of the monarchy. Since 2007, it has been a place to stay for international guests, traditional Vienna has always been omnipresent here. The Viennese attitude to life is lived on at The Amauris Vienna. As part of the international hotel association Relais & Châteaux, hospitality, food culture, and the art of good living are at the heart of this hotel. A Boutique Hotel - Represented The Amauris Vienna embodies everything that characterises a boutique hotel. Houses where the personal touch and excellent service prevail, paired with exceptional and luxurious design. The high level of service, modern furnishings, and family atmosphere make every stay unforgettable. The Amauris Vienna also exudes its very own charm, evoking emotions of cosy comfort and total relaxation. "Feeling at home in the Viennese Palais". Interior Decor A spice of Viennese lifestyle is well combined with international influence. This is precisely what The Amauris Vienna represents with its modern furnishings and timeless design classics. In addition to fine lamps from the Italian manufacturer FLOS, you will find high-quality pieces from Vitra, Minotti and Potocco, among others. The finest Italian marble, Calacatta, Calacatta Viola, Carrara Bianco, Guatemala Verde, Nero Marquina, a total of 160 tons, and the historic stucco in rooms and suites emphasise the special characteristics of the Palais. We truly love how marble is being employed and deployed in the entire design philosophy and template! A symbiosis of old and new! Grand Deluxe Room - My Stay The hotel comes with 68 charming rooms and suites and consists of 11 different room types and tiers, but my stay at The Amauris Vienna was in this luxurious Grand Deluxe Room, which is located between the 2nd and 5th floor of the building and offers beautiful stucco and high ceilings. The concept is vivid - it offers the experience of Viennese grandeur and elegance with a view of the famous Ringstrasse and its historic architecture. With an Italian marble bathroom, sumptuous bathrobes, heated floors, and Illy espresso machine each of these spacious rooms offer luxury with the possibility of being connected to each other. Even my main entrance door to my room, was designed in exquisite marble, a true sign of luxe! A transformative rest was truly in full order in Vienna, my city of dreams, as the room came equipped with a featherbed coveted with luxury, Italian linens, finesse galore! The room was allocated with high-end amenities comprising: King-sized bed 65-inch OLED television Complimentary high speed WiFi Smart room tablet Writing desk Tea and coffee making facilities, including Illy machine Luxury Italian linens Sumptuous Bathrobes and slippers - love it! Acqua di Parma toiletries - another delight! Salon-grade hair dryer Scale Towel heater Bathroom floor heating Rollaway bed or crib (available upon request) 24-hour in-room dining service was also available along with pillow selection, shoeshine and laundry service GlassWing Restaurant Discover an exquisite dining experience worthy of Vienna’s grandeur! With a love for tradition and an urge to experiment, executive Chef, Alexandru Simon blends the cultural heritage of Vienna with bold new flavors. Dining here, you’ll experience meals with a perfect mix of innovation and tradition worthy of Vienna. Whether the food comes from the nearby region or the sea, Chef Simon’s main focus is always on the highest quality. Meals encompass a delightful fusion of novel and timeless flavors, creating a truly immersive experience. "Drawing inspiration from both my heritage and a profound admiration for French cuisine, I embarked on a quest to refine traditional dishes and elevate them into modern culinary wonders. At Glasswing, we celebrate the harmonious fusion of flavors, crafting each dish with meticulous care and an unwavering commitment to quality." as shared by Chef Simon For breakfast, I like the Egg Royale - Onsen Egg, comprising of an English muffin, salmon and cress hollandaise, and also the Omelette with baby spinach, gruyere, pickled onions and truffle. Special mention is given to the Braised tomatoes and arugula - distinctively special and tasty... one of the best concoctions, simple, humble yet aromatic.. also tasted the Smoked Fish with wasabi and beetroot along with a bowl of yummy fresh fruits. The fresh pressed orange juice, pot of tea and Americano all resonated with me; honestly, the quality here is so good' it's one of my best breakfast experiences globally and the best in Vienna, Austria! Rosette Media Rating at 9/10 Glasswing Bar & Bistro The Glasswing Bar & Bistro stands as a haven of exclusivity, tantalizing the senses and adding a touch of refinement to every moment. Their bistro offers a tempting assortment of snacks and dishes, perfectly complementing the sophisticated ambiance. Immerse yourself in the exquisite flavors of our cuisine, carefully crafted from premium ingredients, while you luxuriate in the stylish atmosphere of the bar. Beyond being a place for drinks, the Glasswing Bar & Bistro serves as a rendezvous for those who appreciate life's finer pleasures. Their skilled bartenders are committed to pampering you with an impressive selection of refined drinks and signature cocktails, ensuring each visit becomes an unforgettable experience. The Amauris Spa Indulge in a haven of relaxation and pamper your senses with their exquisite spa treatments at The Amauris Vienna. Their extensive menu offers a variety of luxurious applications that will make your skin glow, release tension, and provide a profound sense of relaxation. From revitalising massages to nourishing facial treatments, let their professional therapists spoil you as you bask in the harmonious atmosphere of our exclusive spa area. One can immerse yourself in pure rejuvenation and treat yourself to an unforgettable wellness experience with their full range of spa and well facilities including, - Steam room with aromatherapy - Finnish sauna - Ice fountain - love this! - Indoor relaxing pool, with a scenic glass roof, had a nice swim in this pool, so the feeling was just totally rejuvenating and so refreshing! - Relaxation suite with heated lounge chairs and a self-service bar with an infused water and tea selection, I spent almost an hour here, so relaxing! - Treatment room for massage and beauty treatments - State-of-the-art gym with the latest Technogym exercise equipment, free weights, weight machine, along with a range of cardiovascular equipment. The fact that I can enjoy and have a nice exercising swim, along with a rest afterwards at the relaxation suite, along with infused tea, was indeed very heartwarming and added a notch towards my already excellent experience at the Amauris Vienna, during winter! Location The Amauris Hotel provides great access to the landmarks, monuments and 19th century ambiance that made the name Vienna synonymous with luxury and culture. The Amauris Hotel is at the heart of what Vienna has to offer. Amid fine restaurants, and cafes, the hotel is a short walk from such sites as the Hofburg Palace, the Albertina Museum, and Kunsthistorisches Museum, which holds works from masters Raphael, Rembrandt, Caravaggio and Rubens. Relais & Châteaux Established in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is an association of more than 580 landmark hotels and restaurants operated by independent innkeepers, chefs, and owners who share a passion for their businesses and a desire for authenticity in their relationships with their clientele. This is my first Relais & Châteaux property that I have stayed with, the Amauris Vienna that resides with this brand and it truly exudes finesse, authenticity and it is indeed a classe of it's own! Relais & Châteaux is established around the globe, from the Napa Valley vineyards and French Provence to the beaches of the Indian Ocean. It offers an introduction to a lifestyle inspired by local culture and a unique dip into human history. Relais & Châteaux members have a driving desire to protect and promote the richness and diversity of the world’s cuisine and traditions of hospitality. They are committed to preserving local heritage and the environment, as encompassed in the Charter presented to UNESCO in November 2014. Compliments The arrival, check-in, departure, check-out processes and butler services were all tip-top, attention to detail, and kudos especially to the F&B team for being meticulous with their sharing and culinary advice for my breakfast needs.. Appreciation goes to Nikola, the Front Office Manager and his team for a warm welcome, and also Elena from the F&B team, who gave me lots of good Viennese city tips and also F&B sharing for the restaurant .. and also kudos to service concierge and reception, for attending to my varying needs during my stay, it was super awesome! The Amauris Vienna Kaerntner Ring 8, 1010 Vienna, Austria Contact +43 1 22122 Inquiries: vienna@theamauris.com Reservation: reservation.vienna@theamauris.com For easy booking, pls visit this link https://www.theamauris.com/en/hotel.html

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today unveiled the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24, unleashing new mobile experiences with Galaxy AI. Galaxy S series leads the way into a new era that will forever change how mobile devices empower users. AI amplifies nearly every experience on the Galaxy S24 series, from enabling barrier-free communication with intelligent text and call translations, to maximising creative freedom with Galaxy’s ProVisual Engine, setting a new standard for search that will change how Galaxy users discover the world around them. "The Galaxy S24 series introduces Samsung's first true AI Phone, bringing new possibilities in communication and creation. Galaxy AI powers these innovations, turning possibilities into reality," stated Ronnie Ng, Head of Mobile Experience at Samsung Electronics Singapore. "In the move towards an AI-inclusive future, we see the Galaxy S24 series as a reliable mobile AI device for Singaporeans, providing valuable benefits for work, play, and daily activities." Make Everyday Experiences Epic Galaxy AI introduces meaningful intelligence aimed at enhancing every part of life, especially the phone’s most fundamental role: communication. When you need to defy language barriers, the Galaxy S24 series makes it easier than ever. Chat with another student or colleague from abroad. Book a reservation while on vacation in another country. It’s all possible with Live Translate, two-way, real-time voice and text translations of phone calls within the native app. No third-party apps are required, and on-device AI keeps conversations completely private. With Interpreter, live conversations can be instantly translated on a split-screen view so people standing opposite each other can read a text transcription of what the other person has said. It even works without cellular data or Wi-Fi. For messages and other apps, Chat Assist can help perfect conversational tones to ensure communication sounds as it was intended: a polite message to a co-worker or a short and catchy phrase for a social media caption. AI built into Samsung Keyboard can also translate messages in real-time in 13 languages. In the car, Android Auto will automatically summarise incoming messages and suggest relevant replies and actions, like sending someone your ETA, so you can stay connected while staying focused on the road. Organisation also gets a big boost with Note Assist in Samsung Notes, featuring AI-generated summaries, template creation that streamlines notes with pre-made formats, and cover creation to make notes easy to spot with a brief preview. For voice recordings, even when there are multiple speakers, Transcript Assist uses AI and Speech-to-Text technology to transcribe, summarise and even translate recordings. Communication isn’t the only way the Galaxy S24 series takes the fundamental benefits of the phone into the future. Online search has transformed nearly every aspect of life. The Galaxy S24 series marks a milestone in the history of search as the first phone to debut intuitive, gesture-driven Circle to Search with Google. To give Galaxy users an incredible new tool, Galaxy turned to the worldwide leader of search, Google, and opened up new forms of discovery with a simple gesture. With a long press on the home button, users can circle, highlight, scribble on, or tap anything on the Galaxy S24 series’ screen to see helpful, high-quality search results. Seeing a beautiful landmark in the background of a friend’s social media post or a surprising fun fact on YouTube Shorts can quickly become an accurate search to learn more – without having to leave that app. And depending on a user‘s location, for certain searches, generative AI-powered overviews can provide helpful information and context pulled together from across the web, and users can ask more complex and nuanced questions. It’s that easy. And that epic. Unleash Creativity to Discover the World in New WaysGalaxy S24 series’ ProVisual Engine is a comprehensive suite of AI-powered tools that transform image capturing abilities and maximise creative freedom every step of the way, from setting up a shot all the way to sharing it on social. Gone are shaky, pixelated images taken from far away. Galaxy S24 Ultra’s Quad Tele System, with new 5x optical zoom lens, works with the 50MP sensor to enable optical-quality performance at zoom levels from 2x, 3x, 5x to 10x magnification thanks to Adaptive Pixel Sensor. Images also show crystal clear results at 100x with enhanced digital zoom. With upgraded Nightography capabilities, photos and videos shot on Galaxy S24 Space Zoom are brilliant in any conditions, even when zoomed in. Capture more light in dim conditions with Galaxy S24 Ultra’s larger pixel size, now 1.4 μm, which is 60% bigger compared to the previous model. Blur is reduced on Galaxy S24 Ultra with wider optical image stabilizer (OIS) angles and enhanced hand-shake compensation. When recording videos, both front and rear cameras are equipped with Dedicated ISP Block for noise reduction, and Galaxy S24 analyses gyro information to distinguish between the filmer’s movement and the subject’s. This allows more effective noise removal and clear videos in the dark, even from far away. After great shots are captured, innovative Galaxy AI editing tools enable simple edits like erase, re-compose, and remaster. For easier and more efficient optimisations, Edit Suggestion uses Galaxy AI to suggest perfectly suitable tweaks for each photo. To give users even more creative control and freedom, Generative Edit can fill in parts of an image background with generative AI. When a picture is crooked, AI will fill in the borders. When an object needs to be slightly moved to be in the perfect position, AI lets users adjust the position of the subject and generates a perfectly blended background in its original spot. When generative AI is deployed to amplify an image, a watermark will appear on the image and in metadata. And if an action-packed video needs to be slowed down, new Instant Slow-mo can generate additional frames based on movements to smoothly slow down action-packed moments for a more detailed look. To ensure that every image stuns at every stage, Super HDR reveals lifelike previews before the shutter is ever pressed. And while capturing memories is an essential phone feature, sharing memories with the world is just as meaningful. Now, third-party social apps make the most of Galaxy’s AI-powered camera system. Premium Galaxy S series camera features now integrate directly with mobile apps in HDR to level up social sharing. When it’s time to find an image in Gallery or Instagram feed and reels, photos and videos are also shown in Super HDR for a more lifelike range of brightness, colour and contrast by analysing highlighted section of the images. Galaxy’s Most Intelligent Experience Ever, Powered by Premium Performance As AI becomes a more prominent part of everyday life, performance power must excel to meet the demands. Gaming; heavy-duty video recording and editing; jumping between five apps to plan a trip – whatever the task, the Galaxy S24 series provides an incredible experience thanks to enhancements in its chipset, display and more. Every Galaxy S24 Ultra is equipped with Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform for Galaxy. Optimised especially for Galaxy users, this chipset delivers remarkable NPU improvement for incredibly efficient AI processing. In all three Galaxy S24 models, 1-120 Hz adaptive refresh rates also improve performance efficiency. Advanced Security and Privacy Empowers User Choice and TrustSecured by Samsung Knox, Galaxy’s defence-grade, multi-layer security platform, the Galaxy S24 series safeguards critical information and protects against vulnerabilities with end-to-end secure hardware, real-time threat detection and collaborative protection. Samsung’s long-standing commitment to provide users choice and control over their device continues in the era of AI. Galaxy S24 users have full controllability over how much they allow their data to enhance AI experiences, through Advanced Intelligence settings which can disable online processing of data for AI features. The Knox Matrix vision of a secure, connected and password-less future is also advanced with passkeys. Passkeys enable convenient and secure access to a users’ registered websites and apps across all their trusted devices through digital credentials, helping protect against phishing attacks. Enhanced Data Protection offers end-to-end encryption when users backup, sync or restore their data with Samsung Cloud, allowing Galaxy S24 users to connect to other devices while staying synchronised and secure. This ensures the data can only be encrypted or decrypted on a user’s devices, meaning nobody can see it but the user, even if a server is compromised or account details are stolen. And if access to a trusted device is lost, a recovery code can help prevent loss of data. The Galaxy S24 series is also protected with Samsung’s expansive list of innovative security and privacy features including Knox Vault, Security & Privacy Dashboard, Auto Blocker, Secure Wi-Fi, Private Share, Maintenance Mode and more. The Next Phase of Samsung’s Environmental Journey Establishing a new category of mobile experiences also means reimagining how Galaxy technology is designed and packaged to do more with less for people and the planet. Galaxy S24 continues to scale the variety of recycled materials in Galaxy devices by applying recycled plastics, glass and aluminium to internal and external components. It also takes these efforts one step further. For the first time, the Galaxy S24 series features components made with recycled cobalt and rare earth elements. In Galaxy S24 Ultra, a minimum of 50% recycled cobalt was used in the battery, and 100% recycled rare earth elements were incorporated into the speakers. Galaxy S24 is also the first Galaxy S series to be designed with recycled steel and Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). Galaxy S24 Ultra features a minimum of 40% recycled steel in the speakers, and it includes a minimum of 10% pre-consumer recycled TPU in the side and volume keys. Additionally, every Galaxy S24 comes in a packaging box made from 100% recycled paper material. The latest flagship continues Samsung’s commitment to extending the product lifecycle, offering seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates to help users reliably experience the optimised performance of their Galaxy devices for even longer28. Lastly, the Galaxy S24 series is UL ECOLOGO® certified29, and its carbon footprint has been measured and verified by The Carbon Trust. Galaxy S24 is a demonstration of progress against Samsung Mobile eXperience’s (MX) environmental roadmap. Samsung remains steadfast in delivering on its set of goals to be achieved by the end of 2025. At the end of 2022, Samsung achieved the first of these goals by incorporating recycled materials in all mobile products, from Galaxy smartphones and tablets to PCs and wearables. Today, the company is setting a new recycled material goal. By 2030, Samsung will incorporate at least one recycled material in every module of every mobile product. Precision Technology and Elegance in Every DetailGalaxy S24 Ultra is the first-ever Galaxy phone to feature a titanium frame, enhancing device durability and longevity. Galaxy S24 Ultra’s significantly thinner body enables better on-the-go experience with more comfortable grip. On Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24, a streamlined One-mass design satisfies a more aesthetic standard with seamless connection between the device’s rear cover and side frame. The Galaxy S24 series comes in Earth mineral-inspired colour tones. On Galaxy S24 Ultra, colours include: Titanium Gray, Titanium Black, Titanium Violet and Titanium Yellow. On Galaxy S24+ and Galaxy S24 colours include: Onyx Black, Marble Gray, Cobalt Violet and Amber Yellow. All three models will come with additional colours available online only. For more information about Galaxy S24 series, please visit: Galaxy S24 Ultra: http://samsung.com/sg/smartphones/galaxy-s24-ultra/ Galaxy S24+ | S24: http://samsung.com/sg/smartphones/galaxy-s24/ @samsungsg #GalaxyUnpacked #GalaxyAI