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- Exciting #RevUpSG programmes at Singapore Grand Prix 2024
3 July 2024, Singapore – Local residents will have more exciting F1-themed activities coming up as part of race promoter Singapore GP’s #RevUpSG community engagement campaign. With just around two months to go to the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2024, Singapore residents will get to discover more about the pinnacle of motorsport through complimentary behind-the-scenes tours, a karting competition, pop-up festivals, and a Pit Lane walk. Behind-The-Scenes Tour From July to August, fans will get the chance to explore what goes on behind-the-scenes at the F1 Pit Building – the heart of the Marina Bay Street Circuit – through exclusive guided tours of the facility. Due to strong demand in previous years, more tour sessions have been added for 2024. Fans will hear from key personnel to gain insights into the home of Formula 1 night racing, learn more about its sustainability practices, and get a sneak peek into areas that are normally restricted, including the Race Control room, Media Centre, and podium. Tickets are available to local residents via ballot from now till 14 July. #RevUpSG Karting Challenge Race fans who are eager to put the pedal to the metal can partake in the #RevUpSG Karting Challenge from 3 to 4 August at The Palawan @ Sentosa – HyperDrive, an indoor gamified electric go-kart circuit. The challenge is open to locals aged between nine to 17 (Category A), and those 18 and above (Category B). Participants of Category A and B must have a minimum height of 140cm. The top 10 racers from the qualifying sessions on 3 August will go ahead to battle for a spot on the podium the next day. The top three racers in each category stand to win exclusive tickets to the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2024, Red Bull product and merchandise, and The Palawan @ Sentosa vouchers. Interested racers can ballot for the #RevUpSG Karting Challenge from now till 14 July. #RevUpSG Festivals #RevUpSG Festivals will be held at Suntec City (27 to 28 July), One Punggol (24 to 25 August), and Toa Payoh HDB Hub (31 August to 1 September). Residents will be able to engage in a host of F1-themed activities, such as having a go at race simulators, experience the rush of racing in an open-cockpit vehicle, get a sneak peek of the 2024 official Singapore GP merchandise, and more. Formula 1 fans can also cheer on their favourite drivers at the beIN Sports live screenings of the Belgian, Dutch and Italian Grands Prix. Visitors at the One Punggol and Toa Payoh HDB Hub events will also be able to obtain promotional codes (subject to availability) to purchase Friday Zone 4 Walkabout tickets to the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2024 at a special community price. Pit Lane Experience The highly-popular Pit Lane Experience will be held once again on the Thursday of the F1 night race weekend. Up to 4,500 lucky residents will get the exclusive opportunity to walk down the Singapore Pit Lane and see the Formula 1 team garages up close before the gates to the Circuit Park officially open. Tickets to the Pit Lane Experience on 19 September are only available to local residents via a ballot, which will be open from 1 August. Discover more #RevUpSG activities at singaporegp.sg/en/revupsg.
- Azerai Ke Ga Bay
Introduction Azerai is a new story and brand of resorts offering guests simple elegance, refined design, and discreet and attentive service in places of unique beauty and cultural interest. The brand was formed by hotelier Adrian Zecha, and the name is derived from Zecha’s initials and the latter part of a Persian word, caravanserai, which references the storied old inns of the Middle East. AZERAI INVITES GLOBAL EXPLORERS TO DISCOVER KE GA BAY, VIETNAM’S NEW BEACHFRONT RETREAT Azerai Ke Ga Bay marks the brand’s first international beach resort, and follows Azerai La Residence, Hue, a historic city resort overlooking the Perfume River in Vietnam’s former imperial capital, and Azerai Can Tho, a peaceful retreat set on a lush islet in the Mekong Delta. Azerai Ke Ga Bay is located approximately 180km east of Ho Chi Minh City, a 2.5 hour drive (due to a new expressway) and strategically positioned on a sweeping five-kilometre white sand beach. Nestled amongst 4.5 hectares of lush green gardens, this charming oceanfront retreat overlooks the ocean in Binh Thuan province, and is well positioned to the east by Hon Ba Island with the historic Ke Ga Lighthouse (dating from 1897 and is the oldest lighthouse in Vietnam) and to the west by soaring sand dunes. Spectacular pristine white sand line the beaches whilst lush green flora and local fauna re-imagines a scene for total tranquility for resort guests. A tranquil and quiet setting, awaits each visitor upon arrival and we were awed by the spaciousness and voluminous ambience that accompanies the outdoor terraces, gardens, swimming pavilions, infinity pool, tree-scape with a juxtaposition of local material, sand and granite which styles this venue from the surrounding area in Binh Thuan Province, leaving a sense of elegance, relaxation and rejuvenation, as you explore the vastness and grandeur of this luxurious resort. Accolades Azerai Ke Ga Bay has already made a strong impression, being named as a finalist in the “New Hotel of the Year” Awards by Destination Deluxe, and a finalist in the “Hotel Renovation & Restoration” category of Sleeper Magazine’s AHEAD Awards. A pioneer of five-star boutique hospitality in this emerging destination, the resort is now attracting a new generation of affluent international guests to Ke Ga Bay. Visitors can simply unwind amid an unspoiled coastal landscape of natural and cultural wonders, including long, sandy beaches, traditional fishing communities, hot springs, salt fields and fruit gardens. A sense of calm, peace and holiday aura encapsulates my senses, the moment I step into the resort and as I wander around, to explore, an adventure in itself, "a haven of calm" Mr. Julian Moore, General Manager of Azerai Ke Ga Bay, said: “Located on a beautiful beach and overlooking the oldest lighthouse in Vietnam, Azerai Ke Ga Bay is not only an ideal destination for relaxing beachside vacations; it also creates an opportunity for visitors to explore the timeless heritage of local life in this fishing village community. As pioneers of sustainable development in Ke Ga Bay, we look forward to making this a ‘must-visit’ option for experience-seeking international travellers.” Design Inspiration & Posture “We wanted to create a more contemporary and pure design look,” says David Hodkinson, a partner at Noor Design, the Ho Chi Minh City-based architecture and design firm that helped to usher in Azerai Ke Ga Bay. “One of the key elements was to open up the rather enclosed and insular spaces of the former resort, connecting them to the landscape and surroundings,” he adds. Steven Scott, Executive Director at Azerai Resorts, says the goal was to replan the interior design, opening areas to more natural light and encouraging seamless indoor-to-outdoor living spaces, both in the guest suites and public areas. “Architecturally, the resort was well-designed with colonial representation of tropical architecture—lots of soaring high ceilings and clustered buildings which flowed amid the mature landscape. It simply needed someone to look at the place with fresh ideas and bright eyes,” Scott says. The materials used in the new resort were all locally sourced in Vietnam and feature a notable increase in natural stone and timber, which makes for all sorts of visual warmth. The color palette throughout Azerai Ke Ga Bay is muted, simple and relaxing, encouraging guests to embrace a laid-back, “at-the-beach” mindset. Other nods toward Vietnamese design, Hodkinson says, include woven rattan and seagrass matting, pebble-wash flooring using local sand and pebbles, paint colors inspired by the rock formations near the region’s iconic lighthouse, and crafts made by local artisans. Traditional Vietnamese architectural details can also be found in the wooden screens in guest suites and at the resort’s restaurant. “The resort takes design cues from a modernist Vietnamese architectural aesthetic, with clear links to the 50’s and 60’s architecture of Vietnam,” says Hodkinson. The resort embraces sustainable development in significant ways. A solar farm has been installed on the property to generate “green” electricity. All the air-conditioning systems have been upgraded to more energy-efficient models, and all the resort’s lighting incorporates low-energy LED fittings. Deluxe Suites and Pool Villas The resort features 57 keys, comprising Deluxe Suites and Pool Villas with spacious interiors measuring between 65 to 185 square metres. All 21 of the villas feature plunge pools or swimming pools set within private courtyards and range in size from 130-185 Sqm. A spacious interior features prominently juxtaposed with minimalist contemporary room aesthetics. All accommodation incorporates a muted palette of soothing natural colors from the surrounding environment and rich timbers delivering a sense of calm to create a desired degree of luxe and privacy. Set in the property’s garden, the Deluxe Suites offer views of natural abundance, with colorful heliconia and ginger plants surrounded by swaying palms and banyan trees. A muted colour palette of whites and granites echo the shades of local sand and stone, while elegant Pool Villas open to tranquil outdoor terraces and gardens. Generously appointed rooms offer sweeping views of the pool or lush garden, and several spacious villas feature private plunge or swimming pools. Pool Villa We stayed in a Pool Villa that offered 130 square meters of indoor living space, a King bed, a writing desk, and a large full bathroom with a soaking tub, as well as a private pool nestled amongst green lush gardens and trees; the air-conditioning and wifi worked well, along with the TV that offered all available international and Vietnamese local channels. Fresh drinking water, nuts, biscuits along with a lovely evening turn-down service set the tone for a room refresh each evening, along with luxurious Azerai toiletries make for an awesome shower and the soaking tub is a true asset that soothes those aching muscles and body, to prepare for a lovely sleep. The Pool Villa rate inclusion: Complimentary water bottles refreshed daily Complimentary daily Vietnamese afternoon tea at The Living Room between 15:30 - 16:30 Daily breakfast Wi-Fi internet in rooms and throughout public areas Use of Fitness Centre and Resort Swimming Pools Use of sauna and steam room Facilities Azerai Ke Ga Bay comprise of 3 distinct pools : an Oceanfront Infinity Pool with al freso dining and a sundeck with beautiful sunset views, a Ginger Pool set amongst an expanse of tropical lush gardens as well as 2 Frangipani Pools in a mirrored courtyard. It also incorporates distinct zones comprising of The Terrace, a Dining Room, a Living Room, The Spa, Gym, a Sunken Lounge, a Meeting Room, a Boutique and a Junior Zone. Some of the frangipani trees at the beach pool are more than 50 years old and add to the timeless feel of the resort. Food & Beverage (The Terrace & Dining Room) Breakfast was simply refreshing and tasty and it was part of our room package. We had an assortment of different dishes including Crab Cakes "Benedictines", Chicken Fresh Rice Noodles that is served with Herbs, Bean Sprouts, Lime and Black Bean Sauce, Minced Pork Congee, as well as the Fresh Farm Eggs Omelet style and served with Roasted Tomatoes, Bacon, Sausage & Toast. Azerai also provided a daily tea session, comprising of tea, coffee and an assortment of local cakes and delicacies, at the Living Room We tried a couple of dishes for Dinner, and they consist of the "48 hours Braised U.S Beef Top Blade" that was blended with Roasted Apples and Tomatoes, Juices, Tomatoes and Mashed Potato (so tasty and tender), also the Wok Fried Calamari with an elegant Sweet & Sour Sauce, that was incredibly done with Calamari, Onions, Capsicum, Cucumber, Pineapples and Celeries. The next dish was the Tamarind Prawns, that allocated a dish of Simmered Prawns with sweet Tamarind Paste, Onions, Sesame Seeds (so delicious) and we couldn't help not order the Beef “Lá Lốt”, which is a typical Vietnamese snack dish with Rolls of Minced Beef in Wild Betel Leaves, and comes with Fresh Noodles and Spring Onion Dressing. The Spa The Azerai Ke Ga Bay Spa offers a calming oasis for all guests to the resort, and provides a good range of therapeutic massages, stone therapies, body scrubs (e.g. Green Tea Scrub) and wraps (e.g. the Dragon Fruits Body Wrap), hair treatments and facials, hand and foot therapies, wellness activities and complimentary steam room & sauna. The skilled therapists offer consultations prior to your treatments in order to achieve the very best personal results. They all come with an in-depth knowledge of age-old Vietnamese healing techniques which have been passed down through many generations of holistic wisdom. The oceanfront spa, with views over the beach toward the lighthouse, has been completely redesigned, from the 10 private treatment rooms (six single rooms and four double rooms) to individual or shared relaxation lounges and daybeds, a beauty studio, a Jacuzzi, and a gym with the latest cardiovascular and strength-training equipment. “The spa has been designed as its own entity, with a processional entranceway,” says Hodkinson, the designer... “Guests arrive at a small welcome pavilion, from which they walk a frangipani-lined pathway to the main spa building. The materials and colours emanate the surrounding landscape, with a calming water feature placed at the centre.” I sampled the Azerai Asian Wave which was a 60 min treatment and Ms Phung, my spa therapist was truly professional and skilled in delivering this signature massage, that comprised of rhythmic and dynamic movements, like the sea waves gently rocking and washing away all my daily chores, stress and tension. This treatment combines Swedish, Thai and Hawaiian Lomi techniques with Japanese Shiatsu, so it was ideal for my lower back and shoulder aches. Phung took care of my entire spa regime, from welcome, to refreshing face towel and tea, to cleaning my tired feet, as she went through the paces of a thorough massage for my tired neck, aching shoulders and lower back pain, body and legs, truly relaxing and one of my best spa massage treatments that I have experienced for a while.... A truly wonderful wellness and spa regime that I would highly recommend for all visitors to Azerai Ke Ga Bay! Day Tours Ke Ga Bay is the perfect place for global explorers who crave original, sustainable activities that connect them with the spirit of their destination. Far from the tourist crowds, travellers can bask in complete peace, enjoy endless days relaxing on the beach, feel the spray of the ocean with non-motorised water sports, take small-scale tours to local attractions such as the traditional food markets, fishing villages, dragon fruit farms and also learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine, or refresh your body and mind with outdoor yoga and meditation sessions. My experienced and wonderful tour guide, Thu Hang from Azerai Ke Ga Bay brought us for a bespoke local tour around the Ke Ga Bay area; such sustainable activities help us to connect with our destination, from an environmental, economic and social perspective, whilst getting a grassroots feel of how the populace go about their daily lives. We first went to the newly developed Tan Thanh market at Ke Ga Bay, where the locals get to market local fruits, vegetables, eggs, seafood and meat to the residents in the area. Truly a local way of Vietnamese Binh Thuan provincial life! We passed by the sea-wall area near Trong Tam Seafood Restaurant as we headed towards the Ke Ga Cape area (a rocky headland with a sand beach & offshore islet) where we saw locals selling the local sea pandanus fruit. There were boats that tourists can take to the nearby Ke Ga Lighthouse, and there was a multitude of iconic and unique shaped granite stone and rock formations, depicting an epic scene of magnificent and pristine beauty with clear blue waters. This was a highlight for me, as I love rock formations and the contrast against the blue sky and sea waters, was truly amazing and wonderful with the Lighthouse in the background, making for a special photo moment! According to the locals, the name "Ke Ga" originated from a rocky area on the island that resembles roosters gazing out to the sea. Historically, it was referred to as "Dao Ga" (Rooster Island) due to the presence of wild roosters living near a freshwater stream that flows into the sea. Constructed in 1897 by French architect Snavat, Ke Ga Lighthouse stands tall at a height of 65 meters above sea level. It features a remarkable 35-meter granite lamp tower and serves as a vital navigational aid for controlling sea traffic in the surrounding area. I truly enjoyed the wonderful hospitality accorded by my hosts and Ms Hang, my tour guide (in English) with my driver host Thanh, both staff working with Azerai Ke Ga Bay, this providing for an extremely enriching and holistic wholesome tour experience. My resort stay is underpinned by heartfelt Vietnamese Binh Thuan hospitality and is truly enhanced by this choice of immersive and experiential tour of the local area. Azerai Ke Ga Bay will continue to develop such innovative and bespoke small-scale private tours and activities, well curated to differentiate itself as a top-class international resort, providing world-class local tour experiences to local distinct and unique attractions. During the rainy season, the salt fields cannot be harvested, so we proceeded to our next tour pit-stop, a Dragonfruit Farm. The owner, Mr Tuan welcomed us with open arms, as he walked us through his 10-hectares Dragonfruit farm plantations, and then treated us to a wonderful fruit tasting session, especially the red-fleshed varietal (he's the only farmer that sells this varietal in Ke Ga Bay, as opposed to the popular white-fleshed varietal). I much prefer to indulge in the red-fleshed Dragonfruit and we chatted like old bosom pals over his fruit plantation, workers, harvesting season and the agricultural ecosystems and pricing matrix of his farm, over a nice cuppa of Vietnamese tea. Coincidentally, the largest producer for Dragonfruits in Vietnam reside in Binh Thuan Province. I am truly blessed to engage in this local guest activity and a memorable one, especially with the friendliness and sincerity of Mr Tuan. Complimentary Activities The resort provides a plethora of sea and beach activities, and guests can easily rent equipment to facilitate their beach experiences along with water sports lessons. Sea Activities Basket Boat Body Board Net Fishing by the beach Beach Activities Beach Soccer Beach Volley Ball Frisbee Kite Flying for Kid Petanque Ping pong Equipment Rental Wave surfing Windsurfing Catamaran Kayaking Standup paddleboarding Water Sports Lessons Wave surfing Windsurfing Catamaran Kayaking Standup paddleboarding Hospitality Acknowledgement We would like to thank Julian and his team for a charming and gorgeous stay at Azerai Ke Ga Bay, to Julian (for hosting me and sharing the key brand values, stories and experiences for Azerai) to Phung for a lovely spa treatment, to Thu Hang (for bringing me around to see the homely attractions around Ke Ga Bay and to Tuan (for hosting me at his Dragonfruit Farm) Special thanks go to the entire Azerai Ke Ga Bay team led by Julian Moore (General Manager), Quyen (PA to GM), Thawanrat (Sales & Marketing), Thanh (Resort Concierge and Driver), Thu Hang (Tour guide & Front Office), Thao, Nhi and Phuong (Front Office), Thien and Thao (F&B), Phung (Spa) as well as to the team at Delivering Asia. Azerai Ke Ga Bay - Discovery Promotion Azerai Ke Ga Bay is now inviting guests to uncover the wonders of Ke Ga Bay with its Advanced Purchase Offer. Book at least 30 days in advance and enjoy an exclusive room rate, plus daily breakfast for two people, a welcome drink, and daily afternoon tea. Rates start from just USD 250 per night. For more information, please click here. For more information, pls contact:- AZERAI KE GA BAY Hon Lan, Tan Thanh Commune, Ham Thuan Nam District, Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam Tel +84 252 3682 222 Email reservations.kegabay@azerai.com Website https://azerai.com/azerai-ke-ga-bay/ Social Media @azeraikegabay #azeraikegabay @rosettemedia #rosettemedia
- SIGEP Asia 2024
The inaugural SIGEP Asia opens with a fanfare today along with the 5th edition of Restaurant Asia to mark a crucial three-day gathering of F&B industry players, trade visitors from Singapore, ASEAN and around the world The first-ever SIGEP Asia was officially opened on 26 June 2024, together with Restaurant Asia 2024, at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre (Halls D, E, and F) at the iconic Marina Bay Sands. The official opening of the mega co-located shows was graced by Guest of Honour Ms Low Yen Ling, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry & Ministry of Culture. At the official opening, the F&B Industry Jobs Portal (FABjobs, www.fabjobs.sg) was unveiled to address the ongoing challenges in the industry. As manpower continues to be a perennial issue for the F&B sector, particularly in attracting locals to join the industry, the Restaurant Association of Singapore (RAS) responded to this pressing challenge by launching FABjobs which is solely dedicated to the F&B industry. The portal is designed with an employer-centric approach, allowing F&B companies to customise and highlight their unique employee value propositions to attract the right talents. This initiative underscores RAS' commitment to addressing manpower challenges and enhancing the attractiveness of careers in the F&B industry. SIGEP Asia is the new satellite trade show of the internationally renowned SIGEP World in Rimini, held from 26 to 28 June 2024. The show is presented by IEG Asia, the wholly-owned subsidiary of Italian Exhibition Group S.p.A. SIGEP, with a 45-year history of inspiring the foodservice community as the most dynamic event for the industry, appeals to international professionals from the worlds of artisan gelato, pastry, chocolate, coffee and bakery as the global reference point for the dolce foodservice industry with exclusive insights into future shifting trends, unexplored tastes and technology trends. SIGEP Asia is held in conjunction with the 5th edition of Restaurant Asia, and co-located with IEG Asia's recently acquired series of food and beverage (F&B) trade shows Speciality Food & Drinks Asia (SFDA), Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia (SCTA), and takeaway and delivery exhibition Food2Go. The mega platform hosts some 10,000 trade visitors, buyers, and over 300 exhibitors and brands from 30 countries and regions. In keeping with its promise of excellence for the foodservice industry, an expansive three-day programme is curated for the event’s trade visitors and buyers. Trade visitors to the show will have the rare opportunity to meet the masters and Chefs from Italy and the region at the SIGEP Sessions over two days of intense masterclasses and demonstrations on gelato, artisanal breads, gourmet desserts, pizza and the pairing of beverages and fine dining. Attendees will learn from experts including Matteo Cunsolo, President of the Richemont Club Italy; Eduardo Villar, Vice President of International Union of Bakers & Confectioners; José María Fernández del Vallado, General Secretary also of the International Union of Bakers & Confectioners; Chef Antonio Danise of the Italian Federation of Chefs; Eugenio Morrone, Master Gelato Maker; Giuseppe Piffaretti, Creator of Panettone World Cup; and Chefs John See and Winston Lau of Mindful Sparks (https://sigepasia.com.sg/event/sigep-sessions/). RAS Leadership Symposium 2024, ‘Building Your Dream Culture’ was a key highlight at the event on 26 June, organised by Restaurant Association of Singapore and headlined by Will Scott, the Author & Founder of The Culture Fix®. who has helped hundreds of businesses fulfill their corporate culture dreams. Board Meeting of the ASEAN Restaurant Associations Alliance (ARAA) which was formed to further bolster relationships and opportunities in ASEAN. This Alliance unites the restaurant associations in ASEAN, presenting an important marketplace for the industry, serving as a gateway to new markets and supply chains in the region through Restaurant Asia and also SIGEP Asia, the expositions organised to gather the industry across borders in the fast-growing ASEAN region. Through this Alliance, the parties hope to create reciprocal benefits across the ASEAN F&B sectors. Following the announcement of the strategic partnership between the International Food & Beverage Association (IFBA) and IEG Asia for SIGEP Asia 2024 to provide a dynamic platform for the exchange of ideas, networking, and celebrating sector achievements, IFBA will hold its Roundtable 2024 focused on leadership and innovation (https://sigepasia.com.sg/event/ifba-roundtable/). The Singapore Coffee Association’s staging of the Singapore National Coffee Championship (SNCC) presenting four competitions, namely the Singapore National Barista Championship (SNBC), Singapore National Latte Art Championship (SNLAC), Singapore National Brewers Cup (SBRC), and the Singapore Cup Tasters Competition (SCTC). The national champions will represent Singapore on the world stage at the World Coffee Championship 2025 in Milan (https://sigepasia.com.sg/event/singapore-national-coffee-championship/). The Technology & Innovation Pavilion and Sandbox, a showcase of new technologies for F&B operations and also to contribute to a more sustainable future for the industry (https://sigepasia.com.sg/event/technology-innovation-pavilion/) A hosted buyers’ programme to connect with top-level decision-makers in the foodservice sectors across ASEAN and APAC. The programme is the gateway to bespoke B2B meetings meticulously tailored to meet the specific business and sourcing needs of trade buyers from restaurants, cafes, bakeries, cocktail bars, gelateria businesses and more. Chef’s Table by-invitation luncheon for networking of the senior leadership of the F&B industry from Singapore and ASEAN including the visiting delegates from the ASEAN Restaurant Associations Alliance (ARAA). According to Mrs Ilaria Cicero, Chief Executive Officer of IEG Asia, “We are thrilled to officially open the doors of the inaugural SIGEP Asia and the fifth edition of Restaurant Asia, bringing together industry leaders, trade visitors, buyers, and exhibitors from Singapore, ASEAN, and around the world.” She added, “This event marks a significant milestone for the F&B industry, providing an unparalleled platform for innovation, collaboration, and the sharing of expertise. We are excited to see the connections and opportunities emerging over the next three days as we continue to drive the industry to greater heights.” Strategic partnerships The Italian Trade Agency is participating in the event with a dedicated Lounge to host the Italian clientele. The Italian Chamber of Commerce Singapore is a strategic partner of IEG Asia to foster stronger ties between Italy and Asia’s culinary industries. Both parties are committed to promoting the events, facilitating networking, inviting buyers, and encouraging cultural exchange. SIGEP Asia is also supported by Singapore Airlines as its Official Airline, and Hotel Planner as its Official Accommodation Partner. SIGEP Asia: A global gathering hub for all things F&B The first-ever SIGEP Asia, co-located with the 5th edition of Restaurant Asia, SFDA, SCTA, and Food2Go attracted over 11,000 trade visitors and brought together over 320 brands from more than 30 countries and regions. Encompassing the F&B and Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering (Ho.Re.Ca.) industries, the combined events brought together leading global and Asian industry players and hosted fringe events such as the RAS Leadership Symposium and seminars, masterclasses and tasting sessions with Italian Chefs and Boncafe. A diverse mix of exhibitors, from established global players to exciting homegrown artisanal producers, showcased their F&B products and food service technologies, and country pavilions displayed goods from countries such as Italy, Kuwait, China, Malaysia, Japan and Mexico. Leading tech companies at the Technology & Innovation Pavilion also showcased their food service technologies that would help the industry boost operational efficiency, enhance customer experience and work towards a more sustainable future. SNCC: Singapore’s flagship competition for the coffee industry The Singapore National Coffee Championship (SNCC), staged by the Singapore Coffee Association at SCTA over three days, saw 70 participants showcase their skills and passion for coffee making and clinch championship titles in four categories: the Singapore National Barista Championship (presented by Santino), Singapore National Brewers Cup (presented by TIMEMORE), Singapore National Latte Art Championship and Singapore Cup Tasters Championship. The SNCC is the flagship national competitive event for Singapore’s coffee industry and is aimed at raising the profile of the barista profession, promoting best practices in coffee preparation, and encouraging local baristas to continually improve their craft. The winner of each category at SNCC 2024 will go on to represent Singapore globally at the World Coffee Championships, which will be held on three continents in 2025. The champions for each category are: Singapore National Barista Champion: Wong Ruoqi (Chris), Head of Coffee at Santino Singapore National Brewers Cup Champion: Elysia Tan, Director of Homeground Coffee Roasters Singapore National Latte Art Champion: Tan Jia Min, Barista at The Populus: Coffee & Food Co. Singapore Cup Tasters Champion: Tan Yi Xin, Barista at Starbucks Coffee Singapore The winners of each category will represent Singapore on the global stage at the World Coffee Championships, spanning three continents in 2025. Putting Singapore’s coffee culture on the world map Events such as the SCTA and SNCC shine a spotlight on Singapore's coffee talents and are a true testament to the country's growing coffee culture. "The calibre of talent displayed at the SNCC this year was truly remarkable. Each and every participant showcased exceptional technical skills, as well as a deep understanding and appreciation for coffee. Their dedication to their craft is truly inspiring, and we are confident they will represent Singapore proudly at the World Coffee Championships. I’d like to thank our judges, hailing from Singapore, Australia, China, Malaysia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand, for sharing their time and expertise, and my team at SCA for organising the event and ensuring that the four competitions ran smoothly," said Victor Mah, President of the Singapore Coffee Association. An array of speciality coffee brands and products, including coffee machines, grinders, pour-over kettles, drippers, beans and pods, were exhibited at SCTA, from local and global brands such as TIMEMORE, DASHER Singapore, Allpress Espresso, Sapori Italiani, Huggs Coffee, Blu Coffee, Beijing Guixia Legend Trading, Glyph Supply Co, MHW-bomber, Prefer and Mii FoodService, and more. “It has been thrilling to host the SNCC at SCTA within our first-ever SIGEP Asia edition, exposing Singapore’s talents to the world and also showcasing Singapore's passion for the F&B industry to a global audience. We are proud to have provided a platform where exceptional talent can shine and inspire others. This is truly what SIGEP represents – a world expo for food service excellence – and we look forward to bridging more communities across continents,” said Ilaria Cicero, CEO of IEG Asia and organiser of the events. SIGEP Asia sigepasia.com.sg Restaurant Asia restaurantasia.com.sg
- Glisten by Lisa Reihana @ National Gallery Singapore
GLISTEN by Lisa Reihana bedazzles with art activated by nature at National Gallery Singapore’s Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Leading Aotearoa New Zealander contemporary artist Lisa Reihana makes her Southeast Asia solo debut with GLISTEN, a large-scale kinetic sculpture that playfully responds to the surrounding environment, with shapes, sounds, colour and form to define the overall scape of this beautiful installation. One will certainly get bedazzled by the shimmers and soundscape of Aotearoa New Zealander contemporary artist Lisa Reihana’s GLISTEN, a striking kinetic large-scale outdoor installation, adorned with isosceles and triangular and hexa-patterns inspired by the rich traditions of Southeast Asian Songket and Māori Tāniko weaving. National Gallery Singapore presents Reihana’s first solo presentation in Southeast Asia for the seventh edition of the Gallery’s annual Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission Series. GLISTEN presents a vibrant tapestry with intricate patterns that pay homage to the traditions and craft of Indigenous women weavers from Māori and Southeast Asian cultures, with the intertwining of art and nature. The three-sided sculpture reacts and responds playfully to its surrounding natural environment. With over 114,000 shimmer discs beautifully reflecting light, and with the accompanying soundscape of a wind chime and the fluttering pieces of these shimmer discs (when it gets windy), GLISTEN orchestrates a multi-sensory encounter with the artwork. Visitors of all ages are welcome to experience the celebratory and joyful nature of the artwork, inspiring a deeper appreciation of the respective cultures, while prompting them to explore the connections between Southeast Asia and Aotearoa New Zealand which have existed since pre-colonial times. Lisa Reihana (Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Hine, Ngāi Tūteauru, Ngāi Tūpoto; b. 1964, Aotearoa New Zealand) is a multi-disciplinary artist whose diverse practice spans film, sculpture, costume, and body adornment, text and photography. Being a woman of Māori and Welsh-English descent, Reihana has endeavoured to expand representations of Pacific and Māori identities, knowledge, and culture, significantly influencing the development of contemporary art and Māori art in Aotearoa New Zealand. Drawing from her longstanding research into Māori ancestral knowledge, materials, and costumes, Reihana also extended her research into Songket weaving for this unique commission. Reihana dives into the pre-colonial connections between the regions through the incorporation of Tāniko weaving from Aotearoa New Zealand, and Malaysian Songket motifs which are found mostly in Kelantan and Terengganu. The artwork honours the traditions, labour, and pivotal roles of Songket and Tāniko’s women weavers as makers, communicators, knowledge bearers, and mediators prior to Asia and Pacific regions’ first contact with Western culture. GLISTEN points toward the plurality of feminisms that existed in pre-colonial societies and continue to persist in Asia and Pacific regions where women provided sustenance not just for their immediate family, but for their community. GLISTEN beckons visitors with a uniquely mesmerising experience that celebrates cultures as it responds to the surrounding natural environment. The interpretation and innovative creation of the Tāniko and Malaysian Songket woven motifs by Reihana were plotted digitally in a precise manner where 114,000 shimmer discs were meticulously placed by hand to bring the patterns to life. The wind chime was handmade by collaborator Gary Hunt and the artist from repurposed materials. The shimmer discs allude to LED technology, pixels in digital images and screens, which points to Reihana’s video works and her New Media practice. Tāniko is a traditional Māori style of finger weaving. Tāniko patterns are often woven around the borders of korowai (cloaks) and relay Māori stories, histories, and values. Māori weavers’ designs consisted of triangles, diamonds, diagonal bars and stepped patterns. These designs were usually worked in black, red, and white. The featured patterns include the pâtikitiki and kaokao patterns. The pâtikitiki pattern is usually represented as a repetitive diamond or geometric pattern. Pâtikitiki is the word for flounder, symbolising abundance, hospitality and providing for your people. The kaokao pattern refers to protection and resembles a repetitive 'M' shape and is said to represent the rib cage and arms of warriors (haka stance). Songket is a textile handwoven in silk or cotton and patterned with gold or silver threads, and Lisa Reihana looked into Malaysian Songket weave patterns for GLISTEN, referencing materials such as Malaysian artist Grace Selvanayagam’s book, Songket: Malaysia’s Woven Treasure. Songket is traditionally worn during ceremonial occasions including weddings and religious ceremonies where the colour and grandeur of Songket adds to the occasion, and in the early centuries, Songket was only worn by Malay royalty. The motifs featured in the patterns include the Pucuk Rebung Gigi Yu which fuses the Rebung (bamboo shoot) and shark motifs, the Teratai (lotus) which is associated with Malay culture and religions, and the mangosteen which symbolises the reflection of one’s feelings or one’s inner self as related to human spiritual state (Dawa, 1997). Lisa Reihana says, “It’s a privilege to work with National Gallery Singapore, a leading institution for Southeast Asian art and art history. Our shared focus is on deepening the understanding and expanding the representation of extraordinary textiles from both our regions. The patterns adorning GLISTEN are inspired by women weavers, I honour their stories and intricate skills. I hope visitors will be dazzled by its beauty, and to join me in celebrating the enduring legacy of Songket and Tāniko weaving.” Qinyi Lim, Curator at National Gallery Singapore, says, “It has been a pleasure working with Lisa Reihana and her collaborator, James Pinker, to present GLISTEN for this year’s Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission. At the Gallery, we strive to connect Southeast Asian art with broader global narratives, fostering a deeper understanding of Southeast Asia’s heritage amidst current and prescient concerns. GLISTEN beautifully embodies this mission by providing an avenue for visitors to explore the old and new exchanges on gendered labour and traditions between Southeast Asia, Aotearoa New Zealand and further.” The Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission series invites one leading artist each year to present site-specific works at the Gallery. Previous commissioned artists include Cao Fei, Sir Antony Gormley, Shilpa Gupta, Rirkrit Tiravanija and Danh Võ. The Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Commission is made possible through a generous gift by Far East Organization. GLISTEN by Lisa Reihana will be on display at the Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden Gallery, Level 5, City Hall Wing at National Gallery Singapore from 14 June 2024 to 30 March 2025. Admission is free. More information can be found at nationalgallery.sg/GLISTEN.
- Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2024
Singapore Prepares Ahead to Leverage Artificial Intelligence for a Better Future • Unveils the Digital Enterprise Blueprint to Propel Business Growth • Launches GPT-Legal to help the legal sector adopt Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) • Facilitates engagement between UN AI Advisory Board and Digital Forum of Small States on AI governance Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2024, Asia’s flagship tech platform, opened today for its fourth edition with the launch of the nation’s Digital Enterprise Blueprint (DEB) by Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information. This initiative aims to accelerate digital transformation and empower Singaporean enterprises by leveraging emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). The DEB charts the next chapter in Singapore’s enterprise digitalisation journey, amidst a rapidly evolving technological landscape and fast-growing digital economy. To establish the Republic as a nation of empowered enterprises and to elevate businesses and workers in the age of AI, the Blueprint will facilitate an environment for experimentation, encourage Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to harness technology to optimise the way they work, and strengthen digital resilience and cybersecurity across the ecosystem. 50,000 SMEs are expected to benefit over the next five years from the new DEB through four key focus areas: 1. Empower enterprises to be smarter by adopting AI-enabled solutions 2. Enable enterprises to scale faster through cloud-based and integrated solutions 3. Equip enterprises to be safer through improved cyber resilience 4. Support enterprises to upskill workers to make full use of digital capabilities Singapore's Digital Enterprise Blueprint Powering the next bound of digitalisation Seven partners have already come onboard to pledge their commitment to the DEB, including Singapore Business Federation (SBF), Singapore Computer Society (SCS), SGTech, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google, Microsoft and Salesforce. As part of DEB efforts to empower SMEs to be smarter by adopting AI, IMDA has worked with sector leads to co-develop Industry Digital Plans (IDPs), a roadmap for enterprises which highlights solutions that meet specific needs of the sector. IMDA will refresh the IDPs to incorporate AI-enabled solutions that would be relevant to meet the needs of the enterprises in that sector. IMDA expects 15,000 SMEs to benefit from AI-enabled solutions under the SMEs Go Digital programme over the next two years. For digitally mature SMEs, and as part of IMDA’s GenAI x Digital Leaders initiative, IMDA has partnered technology giants to benefit more than 400 such enterprises. Launch of SGTech Apprenticeship: In collaboration with IMDA and the TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) for ITE and Polytechnics (TIP) Alliance, SGTech is launching the Tech Apprenticeship Programme (TAP) to expand the career pathways of graduates by providing access to industry apprenticeships that offer on-the-job training and development opportunities. Over the next two and a half years, SGTech hopes to facilitate the placement of at least 300 apprentices who are fresh or mid-career professionals from polytechnic or ITE backgrounds and drive the adoption of similar practices that promote more inclusive hiring and career agility. Unlocking new and potential AI capabilities in Singapore IMDA and the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today aimed at uplifting the productivity of the legal sector through the use of GenAI. As part of this partnership, GPT-Legal, a new large language model (LLM) which is contextualised for Singapore’s legal sector, will be co-developed. The model will be integrated into SAL’s research platform LawNet, which is accessible by 75% of Singapore’s lawyers, for ease of access. The model will automatically generate more than 15,000 summaries of unreported judgments on LawNet from September 2024. By equipping legal professionals with tools to leverage generative AI, they can now focus on higher-value work for their clients. Thepartnership will catalyse the next bound of GenAI innovations in Singapore’s legal sector, paving the way for our law firms and legal tech companies to build upon it, while ensuring guardrails are in place so that AI can be used as a trusted tool. SAL will also be penning an MoU with the National University of Singapore and AI Singapore to develop its AI capabilities and create a certification to recognise AI specialists in the legal profession. Additionally, Tribe and Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) today announced a collaboration with NVIDIA to launch the Ignition AI Accelerator for local and global AI startups to create and bring to market the next wave of advancement in AI solutions. DISG is a joint office by Economic Development Board, Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) and IMDA to spearhead the growth and development of Singapore’s tech sector. The accelerator is strategic and a first in Southeast Asia for Tribe and NVIDIA, supported by the Singapore government. This curated four-month programme will nurture 15 high-potential startups, equipping them with well-rounded support covering business and technical needs. There will be a special focus on providing best-in-class deep AI development guidance to accelerate the production of market- ready AI products and access to market. As part of this programme, NVIDIA and Tribe will collaborate with EnterpriseSG to offer qualified AI startups funding support through the Startup SG Tech scheme. This collaboration will also tap on Tribe and NVIDIA’s expertise to expediently assess selected high-quality AI startups who will be able to leverage Startup SG Tech funding for technology development and business growth1. Additionally, NVIDIA and Tribe will assist them through the IMDA Accreditation process, with the aim to help them to establish credentials and position themselves as qualified contenders for government projects and large enterprise contracts, ultimately accelerating their global market access. Eligible startups in the programme may apply for EnterpriseSG’s Startup SG Tech grant which supports the development and commercialisation of proprietary technology through innovative proof-of-concept (POC) and proof-of-value (POV) projects. Successful applicants will receive up to S$250,000 and S$500,000 respectively in additional support to sustain the growth of their startups. Shaping Global Digital Compact Singapore hosted the final meeting of the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General’s Artificial Intelligence Advisory Body (AIAB) from 28-29 May. This was the only full in-person AIAB meeting held outside of UN headquarters. As part of the meeting agenda, Singapore facilitated an engagement session between the AIAB and the Digital Forum of Small States (Digital FOSS), whose members are in Singapore for a week-long Digital FOSS Fellowship Programme. Digital FOSS Fellows had the opportunity to exchange views with AIAB members on the topic of AI governance, particularly on the implications and challenges faced by small states. The dialogue also touched on AIAB’s recommendations that will feed into the discussions on the Global Digital Compact, which is targeted to be finalised in the second half of 2024 at the United Nations’ Summit of the Future. Through such efforts Singapore aims to promote a more inclusive approach towards shaping global AI and digital governance. ATxSummit, the by-invitation only headline of ATxSG will gather more than 4,000 attendees from over 80 countries joining us here in Singapore as well as virtually this year. The event will feature an Opening Gala graced by Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, and three exclusive conference tracks – ATxSummit Plenary, ATxAI and Women and Youth in Tech. About ATxSummit ATxSummit, organised by Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore, will take place from 30 to 31 May 2024 at Capella Singapore. This apex event of ATxSG comprises invitation-only Plenary conference, covering a range of topics including Artificial Intelligence, Governance and Safety, Quantum Computing, Sustainability and Compute. ATxSummit also features the ATxAI and Women and Youth in Tech conferences, alongside exclusive G2G events for government officials to address common digital concerns and G2B closed-door roundtables to facilitate closer partnerships between the public sector and the digital industry. For more news and information, visit http://www.imda.gov.sg or follow IMDA on LinkedIn (IMDAsg) and Instagram (@imdasg). For more information on ATxSG, please visit: asiatechxsg.com.
- REKOOP Asia
Asia’s First Social Wellness Club Opens in Singapore Welcome home to REKOOP, where ancient wisdom meets cutting-edge innovation in luxe-lounge surrounds and personalised concierge services dedicated to holistic wellness THE FIRST ICE SPA IN SINGAPORE Asia's pioneering social wellness hub, REKOOP, unveiled its doors on 1 June 2024 at 18 Robinson Road, introducing a groundbreaking paradigm shift in health and well-being within the dynamic city-state of Singapore. Departing from conventional wellness centres, REKOOP curates an immersive sanctuary where the wisdom of the East converges seamlessly with cutting-edge technology, empowering individuals to rediscover themselves, reclaim energy, and restore balance for unparalleled performance and longevity. Nestled at the heart of Singapore's CBD, REKOOP emerges as a refuge for those seeking respite from the daily hustle, providing an oasis where individuals can: accelerate healing in AirPod oxygen therapy; rejuvenate in infrared saunas; improve immune function in ice baths; promote collagen production with red light therapy; and alleviate inflammation in cryo chambers. Beyond momentary relaxation, REKOOP champions enduring well-being, guiding individuals towards sustained vitality and peak performance across all facets of life using scientifically-backed treatments and state-of-the-art technology. Envisioned as a sanctuary for purposeful meetings, leisurely gatherings, or moments of tranquil solitude, the luxurious lounge area at REKOOP is enriched by sensory elements. This includes specially designed lighting, therapeutic-grade scents, energised water, and frequency-tuned sounds. Additionally, the lounge offers biohacking drinks, all crafted to cultivate a serene atmosphere within the space. Committed to sustainability, REKOOP aims to utilise zero-waste products and items throughout its offerings. Distinguished by its personalised wellness approach, REKOOP employs dedicated concierges to navigate guests through an eight pillar approach trademarked the Optimal 8TM a comprehensive framework addressing movement, nourishment, community, mindfulness, habits, feelings, energy, and aspiration. The journey commences with guests peering into a transformative mirror, revealing over 50 markers such as stress, skin age, and metabolism. This data analysis informs the creation of a bespoke wellness programme, ensuring each guest's path to optimal health is uniquely their own. Guided by ancient wisdom philosophies, REKOOP also presents a diverse range of holistic practices, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Training, Integrative Nutrition, Sound Healing, and Meditation. Diana Kraemer, Co-founder and Wellness Director of REKOOP, asserts that holistic wellness is a universal imperative, stating, "Drawing from my experience as a former professional athlete and sports scientist, I intimately comprehend the pivotal role recuperation plays in achieving peak performance. Yet, a robust recovery programme transcends the boundaries of athletic pursuits. In today’s contemporary landscape, the demands of modern life exerts a toll on individuals both physically and mentally, particularly in this region where the expectation for high performance persists around the clock. REKOOP was conceived with a vision to serve as a sanctuary for everyone seeking to reclaim energy, restore balance, and unlock their full potential, regardless of their background or fitness level." REKOOP extends an invitation for guests to discover exclusive membership benefits or alternatively opt for personalised a la carte offerings tailored to their preferences. Founding members, limited to the first 50, will have unlimited access to cryotherapy sessions for life as well as a number of wellness sessions, and other exclusive benefits. At REKOOP, guests are enveloped in an opulent environment meticulously fashioned by the esteemed interior design firm Elliot James Interiors. Elliot Barratt, the visionary behind Elliot James Interiors, emphasises the intentional approach evident in every design facet – from material selection to lighting and colours, all carefully considered to captivate all five senses. "Our inspiration draws from the inherent beauty of natural elements and a deep understanding of how cohesive, serene spaces profoundly impact individuals. The objective was to seamlessly blend luxury with therapeutic elements, envisaging a sanctuary where each aspect significantly contributes to cultivating an atmosphere of tranquillity and wellness. Ultimately, REKOOP was conceived to redefine the optimal environment for healing the body, mind, and spirit,” Barratt pointed out. At its essence, REKOOP transcends traditional notions of holistic wellness, guiding guests on a transformative journey towards peak health, merging cutting-edge technology with ancient traditions. With tailored programmes, invigorating treatments, and a vibrant social space, REKOOP Asia stands as Singapore's premier wellness haven unlocking life's optimal performance. "REKOOP stands as the natural choice for individuals looking to cultivate social connections while affording their bodies a dedicated space for self-healing," added Kraemer. For more information, please visit www.rekoop.asia About REKOOP Asia REKOOP introduces a pioneering approach to wellness as Asia's first social wellness club, located in Singapore's bustling CBD at 18 Robinson Road. This innovative sanctuary merges Eastern practices with modern technology to offer a unique, transformative wellness experience. REKOOP caters to those seeking respite from the fast-paced urban environment, providing personalised health and wellness treatments such as cryotherapy, infrared saunas, and state-of-the-art ice baths. Co-founded by Diana Kraemer, a former professional athlete, REKOOP's mission is to enable individuals to reclaim their vitality, balance, and peak performance. With its luxurious setting, exclusive memberships, and tailored à la carte options, REKOOP fosters a community where wellness and social engagement converge for a holistic lifestyle upgrade. REKOOP 18 Robinson Rd, Level 4 Singapore 048547 Tel: +65 6022 1841 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday - 7.00am to 7.00pm Saturday - 9.00am to 5.00pm Facebook: www.facebook.com/rekoopasia LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/rekoop-asia
- ATxSummit 2024
Singapore Invests Close to S$300 million in National Quantum Strategy and Announces Green Data Centre Roadmap for Sustainable Growth At ATxSummit, the apex event of Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2024, Guest-of-Honour Mr Heng Swee Keat, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Research Foundation (NRF), outlined an investment of close to S$300 million into Singapore’s National Quantum Strategy (NQS) to advance Singapore’s growing Quantum industry. This investment will strengthen the nation’s position as a leading hub in the development and deployment of quantum technologies over the next five years. DPM Heng also launched the Green Data Centre (DC) Roadmap to guide digital sustainability and chart green growth pathways for DCs, supporting AI and compute developments. For AI, DPM Heng announced the release of Model AI Governance Framework (Generative AI), as well as the development of the Digital Forum for Small States (DFOSS) AI Governance Playbook with Rwanda to advance AI safety. Advancing development and deployment of quantum technologiesThe NQS is funded by the National Research Foundation, (NRF), and driven by the National Quantum Office (NQO), hosted by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). The NQS will focus on four funding initiatives anchored by four strategic thrusts – scientific excellence, engineering capabilities, talent, innovation and enterprise partnerships. Scientific Excellence: The NQS will invest to elevate the Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT) into a national R&D centre with nodes in partner institutions, including A*STAR and local universities, bringing together research talent across the country to drive national quantum research priorities. Engineering Capabilities: To strengthen Singapore’s capabilities in quantum technologies and accelerate translation of quantum solutions, the Quantum Engineering Programme 3.0 (QEP 3.0) will be enhanced with the addition of a new National Quantum Sensor Programme (NQSP). The NQSP will bring research performers and industry partners together, to collaborate on industry-centric research projects in the focal areas of Position, Navigation & Timing, Biomedical Sensing & Imaging, and Remote Sensing. A new National Quantum Processor Initiative (NQPI) will also be established to build local capabilities in the design and build up of Singapore’s own quantum processor(s). Talent: A National Quantum Scholarships Scheme (NQSS) will be funded under the National Quantum Strategy to develop a pipeline of up to 100 PhD and 100 Master-level quantum talent over the next five years to meet Singapore’s research and industry needs and build a quantum-ready workforce. Innovation & Enterprise Partnerships: Investments will be made to develop a vibrant quantum ecosystem through strong industry partnerships and the nurturing of local enterprises which can work with NQO. The National Quantum Computing Hub (NQCH), a programme under NQO, will strengthen its innovation & enterprise and ecosystem building efforts, by driving synergistic tripartite partnerships with industry, end-users and the research ecosystem in quantum computing, to support the translation of quantum R&D into real world solutions. Following the successful testbed trials of the National Quantum Safe Network (NQSN), IMDA also launched the National Quantum-Safe Network Plus (NQSN+) where our operators will provide commercial quantum-safe solutions for businesses by end of this year. The Green Data Centre Roadmap: architecting a digitally sustainable futureAt the Digital Sustainability Forum, a part of ATxSummit, Dr Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information shared how Singapore, as a regional Data Centre (DC) hub, is taking the lead in ensuring the long-term sustainable growth of DCs with the Green DC Roadmap. As a compact city-state, Singapore is uniquely positioned to innovate and pioneer solutions that may address this global challenge of sustainable DC growth. The Roadmap aims to provide at least 300 megawatts (MW) of additional capacity in the near term, with much more through green energy deployments. Through the additional capacity, we aim to seed innovative ways to accelerate energy efficiency, as well as hybrid ways to unlock further capacity through green energy. The Roadmap pioneers an end-to-end ecosystem approach, recognising the important role of DC operators as catalysts in forging key partnerships across the multi-faceted ecosystem to bring together solutioning partners to realise the broader goal of sustainable development. It also outlines IMDA’s plans to partner the industry to push boundaries and accelerate DC sustainability on two fronts: Energy Efficiency: Accelerate DC’s energy efficiency at hardware and software levels and allow industry and end-users to put in place best-in-class technologies to maximise efficiency, capacity and economic potential. Green Energy: Accelerate DCs’ use of green energy to expand capacity, and explore how we can deploy this at scale over time to maximise space for continued DCs’ growth Building a trusted AI ecosystem through International Partnerships Singapore has been actively contributing and driving conversations in the international space on AI safety through the Model AI Governance Framework (Generative AI) and the Digital Forum of Small States (DFOSS). The Model AI Governance Framework (Gen AI) is the first comprehensive framework pulling together different strands of global conversation surrounding AI governance. The finalised framework was released today and will be mapped to international AI principles such as the G7 Hiroshima Principles for interoperability after receiving over 70 responses globally largely endorsing the framework’s multi-stakeholder and robust approach to AI governance. Digital Forum of Small States Roundtable Singapore convened a conversation among the Digital Forum of Small States (Digital FOSS) members on the importance of small states to collaborate on the design, development and implementation of AI Governance. At the Digital FOSS Ministerial Dialogue hosted by Minister of Communications and Information, Mrs Josephine Teo, Digital FOSS Ministers, Ambassadors and senior officials exchanged views on the challenges and opportunities that small states face in the areas of international cooperation on digital governance, including in areas such as AI. A Digital FOSS AI Roundtable bringing together high-level representatives of the Digital FOSS Fellowship Programme discussed the Digital FOSS AI Governance Playbook for small states, which Singapore and Rwanda are leading the development of. Digital FOSS members also shared their experiences, challenges, and best practices in AI governance during the roundtable. Other key highlights at ATxSG include: Tony Blair Institute for Global Change “Greening AI” report The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, a knowledge partner of ATxSG, launched a report on “Greening AI: A Policy Agenda for the Artificial Intelligence and Energy Revolutions”. The first-of-its-kind report examines digital sustainability across the AI value chain, highlighting Singapore’s pioneering efforts to advance this agenda – from optimising energy efficient in data centres to greening AI software. The report emphasises the important role of government in promoting green AI, and that with the right policies and coordination, these revolutions can reinforce each other, unlocking significant economic and environmental benefits. About ATxSummit ATxSummit, organised by Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore, will take place from 30 to 31 May 2024 at Capella Singapore. This apex event of ATxSG comprises invitation-only Plenary conference, covering a range of topics including Artificial Intelligence, Governance and Safety, Quantum Computing, Sustainability and Compute. ATxSummit also features the ATxAI and Women and Youth in Tech conferences, alongside exclusive G2G events for government officials to address common digital concerns and G2B closed-door roundtables to facilitate closer partnerships between the public sector and the digital industry.
- Artazzle
ARTAZZLE ELEVATES INDIAN ART TO THE GLOBAL STAGE WITH LAUNCH OF INAUGURAL EXHIBITION Homegrown young brand ARTAZZLE serves as a platform to showcase the richness and artistic brilliance of Indian art and make it accessible to a global audience. Singapore was strategically chosen as the launch pad for ARTAZZLE, positioning the brand at the crossroads of Asia's vibrant cultural and technological landscape. Upcoming exhibition “Indian Art Marvels: Celebrating Icons On Canvas” features the works of eight top contemporary and award-winning artists Dr. Laxman Aelay, Ramesh Gorjala , Jagannath Paul, Anand Panchal, Gopal Samantray, Dinkar Jadhav, Shrikant Kadam and Kamar Alam, - an exploration of the cultural tapestry that defines the soul-stirring brilliance of Indian artistic expression Homegrown brand ARTAZZLE is making waves in the art world by curating the works of top Indian artists and bringing a fresh perspective to the global art scene. With a commitment to promoting the richness and diversity of Indian art, ARTAZZLE is proud to announce its upcoming inaugural exhibition, "Indian Art Marvels: Celebrating Icons on Canvas," set to take place from 31 May to 2 June at ION Orchard. Through this showcase, ARTAZZLE aims to establish itself as the premier destination for discerning art buyers worldwide. The exhibition serves as a tribute to the kaleidoscope of vision that defines Indian art. Featuring the works of eight prominent artists including Dr. Laxman Aelay, Jagannath Paul, Anand Panchal, Gopal Samantray, Ramesh Gorjala, Dinkar Jadhav, Shrikant Kadam, and Kamar Alam, this showcase promises to be a journey through the rich cultural heritage, originality, multidimensionality, and global perspective that characterise Indian artistic expression today. A Celebration of Artistic Brilliance Founded in October 2023 by entrepreneur Shikha Sharma, ARTAZZLE has swiftly become synonymous with curatorial excellence and a commitment to showcasing the finest Indian artworks. With a passion for fostering a vibrant art community, ARTAZZLE bridges the gap between artists and global recognition, offering a curated selection that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. ARTAZZLE finds its roots in the profound purpose of art: to offer sanctuary amidst life's chaos, inviting us into the artist's realm for a moment of respite. For ARTAZZLE, art is a daily source of joy, blending visual allure, cultural homage, and endless discovery. The name itself, ARTAZZLE, merges "ART" and "DAZZLE," symbolising the transformative power and sheer delight of art ownership. “The 'Indian Art Marvels' exhibition is more than just a showcase of talent; it's a celebration of India's cultural legacy and artistic brilliance," says Shikha Sharma, Founder of ARTAZZLE. "Through this meticulously and carefully curated collection for a global audience, we invite audiences to delve into the richness and ingenuity that define Indian art. Each artwork is a testament to the experiences, evolution and vision of the creator. We are privileged to host this exhibition and offer a platform for these iconic artists to showcase their talent on a global scale." Curatorial Excellence and Cultural Preservation "Indian Art Marvels" is meticulously curated to highlight the crème de la crème of Indian contemporary artists, showcasing their unparalleled talent and diverse perspectives. From breathtaking landscapes to abstract compositions, each masterpiece reflects the passionate dedication and profound perspectives of the visionary artists. The exhibition, open to the public with no admission charges, aims to democratise art appreciation, inviting everyone from art aficionados to those who simply admire the beauty of artistic expression. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the forty diverse artworks on display, transcending conventional boundaries and fostering a profound appreciation for the marvels of Indian art. ARTAZZLE's commitment to cultural preservation extends beyond the exhibition, advocating for fair compensation for artists and environmental conservation. By championing sustainability and integrity within the art ecosystem, ARTAZZLE ensures the longevity and vitality of Indian artistry on a global scale. ART FOR WELLNESS Beyond its aesthetic appeal, art holds a significant influence on mental health and overall well-being. Numerous studies1 conducted by medical institutions and governments worldwide have highlighted the therapeutic benefits of art. From reducing stress and anxiety to uplifting moods and fostering emotional expression, art serves as a potent tool for healing and self-discovery. As technology continues to integrate into the art world, there is significant potential for innovation to further amplify these benefits and facilitate human health and recovery. ARTAZZLE believes in harnessing this potential through conscious efforts within the art community, aspiring for groundbreaking advancements in the years to come. Looking ahead, ARTAZZLE plans to introduce tailored initiatives for both children and seniors, providing them with opportunities to nurture their creativity and emotions in a supportive environment. By empowering individuals to explore their artistic expressions, ARTAZZLE aims to make meaningful contributions to their overall well-being and happiness, fostering healing and growth through art. Through these initiatives, ARTAZZLE aims to create a supportive and inclusive space where individuals can explore their creativity, find solace, and embark on a journey towards enhanced holistic mental and emotional wellness. In a quest to make original and authentic art available to everyone seamlessly, ARTAZZLE integrates technology into the art world by simplifying the art-buying experience. With easy navigation and comprehensive artwork descriptions, customers worldwide can seamlessly explore the curated selection via its website. ARTAZZLE guarantees the safe delivery of artworks to clients across international borders, safeguarding their investments and preserving the integrity of the artworks. GLOBAL ACCESSIBILITY Shikha Sharma strategically chose Singapore as the launch site for ARTAZZLE due to its prime location at Asia's crossroads, offering unparalleled access to diverse cultures and markets. Singapore's global reputation for art finesse, multiculturalism and rapid growth of technology and innovation perfectly aligns with ARTAZZLE's mission to integrate technology into the art world, enhancing accessibility for art enthusiasts worldwide. Singapore’s supportive business environment and robust infrastructure create an ideal ecosystem for fostering creativity and entrepreneurship. By leveraging Singapore's dynamic landscape, Shikha Sharma has positioned ARTAZZLE to make a significant impact on the global art scene. ARTAZZLE prides itself on not just merely facilitating transactions - it orchestrates a personalised journey for each buyer. ARTAZZLE elevates the online buying experience with free, no-obligation personalised, one-on-one consultations directly available to buyers. This unique feature provides guidance from expert curators, ensuring that every purchase is a bespoke experience. Whether seeking advice on art pieces that complement home decor or artworks aligning with a living or working space's ambiance, the ARTAZZLE team offers insightful recommendations. This commitment to enhancing the art-buying experience highlights ARTAZZLE's dedication to ensuring that every acquisition reflects the individual style and vision of its owner. "At ARTAZZLE, our vision is simple yet profound: to make art accessible and meaningful to everyone. We believe that art has the power to enrich lives and strengthen communities” says Shikha. “That's why we strive to create a deeply personal buying experience, tailored to each individual's preferences and desires. By fostering connections between art and people, we aim to bring joy, inspiration, and cultural enrichment to communities around the world." For more information on ARTAZZLE, visit https://artazzle.com/ Website: https://artazzle.com/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/artazzle Instagram: www.instagram.com/artazzle_gallery/ ARTAZZLE SINGAPORE 68, Circular Road #02-01, Singapore 049422 + 65 86154254 Email: info@ARTAZZLE.com Artist Email: artist@ARTAZZLE.com
- Starward Whisky
STARWARD TAKES WHISKY TO NEW HORIZONS WITH BOLD NEW PACKAGING When David Vitale founded Starward Whisky in 2007, he set out to create an outrageously delicious and distinctly Australian whisky, to offer to the world with pride. Taking whisky out of its comfort zone is where their team feels most comfortable. And it’s how they started out - using barrels from the famed Australian wine regions in their backyard to craft something that is all about flavour. Over the last 16 years, we’ve grown our signature range, continued to push boundaries with new limited releases, and expanded into global markets like Europe and USA. And they are not done yet… Passionate about showcasing their whisky, they have created new packaging that is modern, impactful, and groundbreaking in the whisky category. They have also taken steps forward in sustainability, making conscious decisions on all packaging elements and looking for new ways to reduce their impact on the environment. Their whisky is born out of red wine barrels, which is their USP and so is the design for their new label. Inspired by the wine-soaked staves, the starburst lines of their new label represent looking into a wine barrel that they use to mature their whisky. The label design communicates the unique story, and flavour, of each of their whiskies. “When I founded Starward, I had big ambitions for what this brand could be. I’m excited to unveil our brand-new look that brings to life everything we stand for – modern, innovative, and delicious,” said David Vitale. Their aim was to grab consumers’ attention, showcasing a new bottle, evolved wordmark, clear tasting notes, storytelling through unique illustrations, and vibrant eye-catching design. They wanted to engage and recruit the next generation of curious drinkers by communicating the delicious flavours of their award-winning whiskies and inviting them on a journey, to take whisky somewhere new. Beyond creating an outrageously delicious whisky, one of their core brand and organisational values is care. They have care for their people, their community, and their planet. When working on this project, they wanted to ensure any changes they made also had a positive environmental impact. That is why they have moved their glass production onshore, helping to reduce freight emissions from their supply chain. They have reduced the glass weight in their Single Malt bottles by approximately 200g per bottle. They have moved to approximately 50% recycled glass content in every 700mL bottle, and they have implemented a plant-based closure. Starward Production Director Sam Slaney said “They have put into place some ambitious sustainability targets and have invested in their procedures, equipment, and infrastructure to deliver improvement. They are extremely proud to be making strides towards those targets with their new pack, bringing their whisky to consumers with less impact on the planet.”The new Starward pack is rolling out now across Australia, available online at starward.com.au and in all leading liquor stores and will arrive in overseas markets early 2024. The new pack will be supported by an integrated media campaign, designed to generate buzz and entice curious drinkers into the category. The campaign will be broadcast across social media, video across YouTube. We were pretty impressed with their suite of various whisky variations when we met and tasted them at TFWA 2024 in Singapore, and to this day, the structure, tastiness and finesse lingers in our tastebuds; as such, we are pretty honoured and privileged to partner with Starward and to share their lovely whiskys in their key important markets, in Asia, in both domestic market and in travel retail. More information can be obtained here... https://starward.com.au/
- Pagoda Odyssey 1915: From Shanghai to San Francisco
A full set of 84 hand-carved model pagodas will be reunited in public for the first time in over a century at Pagoda Odyssey 1915: From Shanghai to San Francisco, the latest special exhibition by the Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM). Opening to the public this Friday, 31 May 2024, the exhibition traces the extraordinary journey of these models from the Tushanwan Workshop in Shanghai to the Panama-Pacific International Exposition of 1915 in San Francisco. Pagoda Odyssey unfolds across four main sections in the museum’s Special Exhibitions Gallery, with some objects spread across other galleries and spaces. Together with related works, including 104 figurines that illustrate the coexistence of tradition and modernity that characterised China at the time, the exhibition paints a vivid picture of cosmopolitan Shanghai and San Francisco at the turn of the 20th century, and looks at international expositions as platforms for trade and cultural exchange. Mr Clement Onn, Principal Curator (Asian Export Art & Peranakan) & Deputy Director (Curatorial & Research) of ACM and the Peranakan Museum explains, “The global odyssey of these handcrafted pagodas weaves a powerful narrative of cultural exchange between East and West that transcends time and space. This exhibition reflects ACM’s efforts to foster connections between Asia and the world, and to celebrate the beauty of Asian artistry and craftsmanship. We are proud to house these remarkable and exquisitely detailed works of art in the ACM collection, and to display them on a grand scale so that visitors can appreciate their craftsmanship and the insights they offer into China's architectural heritage.” A glimpse into Chinese architecture Pagoda Odyssey reflects the enduring legacy of fine craftsmanship in China. Crafted from teakwood, the models were based on real pagodas in China, some of which have since been significantly modified, extensively restored, or otherwise no longer exist today. The models were created at the Tushanwan Workshop, established in Shanghai in 1864 by Jesuit missionaries. Guided by professionally trained priests, young artists were educated in the modern artistic methods of painting, carpentry, sculpture, metalworking, and photography. Many went on to storied careers and influenced other celebrated artists in China. Notable alumni include the watercolourist Xu Yongqing and sculptor Zhang Chongren, while other artists such as Ren Bonian and Xu Beihong were indirectly influenced. The enduring legacy of Tushanwan continues to inspire new generations of artists today. The meticulously crafted models range from 30 centimetres to over two metres in height, and represent a groundbreaking effort at the time to systematically research, document, and reproduce iconic pagodas from different regions and historical periods. As both a creative endeavour and a research project, the Tushanwan models serve as a vital architectural archive that preserves the essence of these pagodas as they stood at the dawn of the century. Cultural exchange in Shanghai and San Francisco The Panama-Pacific International Exposition of 1915 was an important world's fair that celebrated both the completion of the Panama Canal in August 1914 and San Francisco’s recovery from a major earthquake in 1906. Attracting over 18 million visitors during its 288-day run, the exposition saw 31 countries participating to showcase their cultural and technological advancements. These included the introduction of many pioneering technologies on the world stage, such as demonstrations of the first transcontinental phone call and a fully operational automobile assembly plant. China's participation in the 1915 exposition reflected its commitment to showcase itself as a modern nation on a par with industrialised Western powers. At the exposition, participating nations demonstrated new methods and systems of education at the Palace of Education. These included China’s display of works from different types of schools, such as the full set of 84 model pagodas by the Tushanwan Workshop. To many visitors, the pagodas offered a first glimpse of China’s rich architectural heritage. Pagoda Odyssey is complemented by Towers of Faith, a photography display that invites visitors to contemplate parallels in the religious architecture of Singapore through photographs and drawings of five local religious organisations and their associated buildings – Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery, Yu Huang Gong, Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Sultan Mosque, and Saint Andrew’s Cathedral. In addition to archival materials and visual resources, this display presents a contemporary perspective through a collaboration with award-winning Singaporean architectural photographer Darren Soh. These works create a dialogue between the historical and the contemporary, and illustrate the continuing importance of religious architecture in today's Singapore. Exploring new approaches to physical and virtual visitor interaction, Journey into the Pagoda is an immersive virtual reality (VR) experience inspired by the architecture and folklore of the Pagoda of Six Harmonies in Hangzhou. Developed in partnership with Microsoft and Cognizant, this VR exploration blends fantasy and reality, bringing to life a pagoda’s architectural form complete with stunning landscapes. The experience takes visitors on a journey through the interior of the pagoda to a mythical creature awaiting at the top. For the first time at ACM, the exhibition also introduces a hyper-tactile experience, enabling visitors to directly interact with 3D-printed replicas of the model pagodas, as well as replica wooden brackets called dougong, enabling visitors to explore the intricacy of traditional Chinese joinery. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities including digital and on-site programmes, talks, symposia and conferences, curator tours, and weekend festivals. Visitors can also visit Pagoda Land to make their own pagodas using LEGO bricks, and participate in other hands-on activities as they conclude their visit to the exhibition. These programmes are held in conjunction with the exhibition and reflect ACM's dedication to making Pagoda Odyssey a captivating and interactive experience for diverse audiences. Pagoda Odyssey 1915: From Shanghai to San Francisco runs from 31 May 2024 to 1 June 2025 at ACM. Admission charges apply. For more information, please visit www.acm.org.sg. You can also gain more information at these respective channels @acm_sg | www.facebook.com/asiancivilisationsmuseum









