A Story That Resonates

Set in late 1980s Singapore, “Wonderland” tells the heartfelt story of single father Loke (Mark Lee) who dreams of fulfilling his daughter Eileen’s (Xenia Tan) aspiration to study overseas. Struggling with illiteracy, Loke seeks help from his neighbor Tan (Peter Yu) to communicate with his daughter abroad. This poignant narrative explores themes of sacrifice, hope, and the unpredictable nature of life, capturing a bygone era in Singapore and highlighting the power of friendship.

Everyone Can Dream

The film’s themes align seamlessly with Singlife’s multi-year brand campaign, emphasizing that everyone has a dream, regardless of its grandeur. Singlife believes that with proper planning and time, financial freedom dreams are attainable, positioning itself as a trusted financial partner to help Singaporeans achieve a better way to financial freedom.

Commitment to Our Community

This sponsorship follows Singlife’s recent support for Singapore-born national shuttlers Terry Hee and Jessica Tan, reinforcing its dedication to nurturing local talent. “Wonderland” is more than just a film; it is a testament to local creativity and a vehicle for fostering a deeper appreciation of shared humanity. Although the film is set in Singapore and the United States with Hokkien dialogue, its universal themes resonate widely.

Debra Soon, Singlife’s Group Head of Brand, Communications, Marketing, and Experience, remarked, “Through our sponsorship, we aim to bring this powerful story to a wider audience, shedding light on the challenges, including financial dilemmas, faced by the everyday Singaporean. It sends the message that everyone can have a dream and you do not have to go through the difficulties of achieving that dream alone. Wonderland is not just a film; it is a reminder of the enduring parental love and the importance of holding onto hope even in the face of adversity.”

孙舒珊, Singlife品牌，通讯, 市场营销与体验集团主管, added, “我们希望通过这次的赞助将这部屡获殊荣的本地创作带给更多国人。这一部电影围绕着追逐梦想的主题。人因梦想而伟大。Singlife也坚信每个人都有追逐梦想的权利。我们致力成为国人追逐梦想的良伴，让他们在路上不感到彷徨孤单。《乐园》不仅仅是一部电影，它更像一面镜子，映照出我们新加坡人坚韧不拔的精神，以及即使面对困难也心怀希望的信念。”

Set to premiere in cinemas this August, Singlife invites everyone to support this remarkable film and the talented individuals behind it. For more information about “Wonderland” and its release, please visit Wonderland’s Instagram.

About Singlife

Singlife is a premier homegrown financial services company dedicated to providing consumers with a pathway to financial freedom. Leveraging innovative, technology-driven solutions, Singlife offers a broad array of products and services that empower individuals to manage their financial well-being at every stage of life.

Our offerings include a comprehensive suite of insurance plans, employee benefits, and strategic partnerships with financial adviser channels and bancassurance. Through our GROW with Singlife platform, we provide tailored investment and advisory solutions. Additionally, the Singlife Account, a mobile-first insurance savings plan, ensures seamless access to financial security.

As the exclusive insurance provider for the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Public Officers Group Insurance Scheme, Singlife underscores its commitment to serving the community. We are proud signatories of the United Nations Principles for Sustainable Insurance and the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment, reflecting our dedication to sustainability.

The merger of Aviva Singapore and Singlife in September 2020, valued at S$3.2 billion, marked the creation of one of the largest homegrown financial services companies in Singapore. This was the largest insurance deal in Singapore at the time. In March 2024, Singlife was acquired by Sumitomo Life, one of Japan’s leading life insurers, in a transaction valued at S$4.6 billion, making it one of the largest insurance deals in Southeast Asia.

The post Singlife Sponsors Award-Winning Film “Wonderland,” Celebrating Local Talent and Dreams appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

LifeWear that Brings Us Together

In honour of Singapore’s 59th birthday, UNIQLO spotlights four Singaporeans, showcasing how their favourite LifeWear pieces enhance their daily lives. National athlete Quah Zheng Wen prefers the Ultra Stretch DRY-EX Shorts, while Cross Ratio Artiste Tay Kewei favours the American Sleeve Cropped Bra Sleeveless Top, Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt, and Wide Straight Jeans. Content creator Anda enjoys the Halter Neck Bra Top and Wide Straight Jeans, and Royce Lee, host and founder of Mom’s Hug, opts for the AIRism Cotton Oversized Crew Neck T-shirt and Geared Shorts.

Whether exploring the sunny island or relaxing at home this National Day, UNIQLO offers something special for everyone. From the cool and comfortable SG Uniform to SG Favourite LifeWear pieces, Singaporeans can enjoy limited offers on festive-coloured items such as the AIRism Cotton T-shirt, Halter Neck Bra Sleeveless Top, and Men’s Ultra Stretch DRY-EX Shorts.

Get in the Singapore Spirit with Exciting In-Store Activities (July 26 – August 11)

SG-Exclusive Tote Bag

From July 26 to August 1, UNIQLO APP members who spend a minimum of $59 in a single receipt at any UNIQLO store will receive an exclusive tote bag inspired by the nostalgic Merlion plastic bag. This offer is available in all stores and online, excluding Changi Airport Terminal 1 store. Limited to one redemption per APP member, while stocks last.

UNIQLO SG Fun Pack

At the Orchard Central Global Flagship Store from July 26 to August 1, APP members who spend a minimum of $59 in a single receipt will receive an upsized SG Tote Bag with assorted snacks, goodies, and vouchers from SG Brand partners such as The Golden Duck Co. and FOSSA Chocolate. This exclusive offer is limited to one redemption per APP member, while stocks last.

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UNIQLO SG Game Show

UNIQLO fans can test their knowledge of Singapore and SG’s LifeWear Favourites in a fun game show hosted by content creator Fauzi Aziz. Participants can stand to win snacks, merchandise, and LifeWear bundle sets worth up to $350. This event will take place from August 2-4 and August 9-11, from 2-5 PM, at the Orchard Central Global Flagship Store, Level 1. Limited to the first 100 customers per day.

SG Brands UTme!

Celebrating Singaporeans’ love for food, UNIQLO collaborates with local brands FOSSA Chocolate, Birds of Paradise, and The Golden Duck Co. to launch a collection of UTme! designs. Customers who purchase a Singapore-brand UTme! design from July 26 at Orchard Central Global Flagship and Jewel Changi Airport can redeem a novelty item from the corresponding brand, while stocks last.

The post UNIQLO Celebrates Singapore’s 59th Birthday with Exclusive LifeWear Collection and Exciting In-Store Activities appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

CAPCOM, the globally renowned developer and publisher, will headline the B2C entertainment area with a spectacular showcase of their upcoming games. Fans can anticipate hands-on demos and the highly anticipated CAPCOM Pro Tour 2024 SUPER PREMIER SINGAPORE, featuring Street Fighter 6. This event is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for both fans and industry professionals.

Shawn Layden, the former CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment America (SIEA), will headline the business area conference with a fireside chat. His extensive experience in shaping the iconic PlayStation brand will provide invaluable insights and predictions about the future of the games industry.

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BAFTA-winning Andrew Wincott, the voice of Raphael in Baldur’s Gate 3, will join the entertainment area stage programme, adding to the event’s star-studded lineup. Visitors can also look forward to a performance by J-pop singer-songwriter SHIHORI, known for her work on Mobile Legends: Bang Bang! ALLSTAR 2024.

Daria La Valle, Project Director at Koelnmesse, organiser of gamescom asia, said, “We are excited to be part of the evolving status of Southeast Asia as a key market in the games industry. The region is really showing its potential for growth, and with the continued support we’ve had over the years, plus key industry leaders joining us this year, it’s clear that gaming in the region is on a promising path.”

The business area of gamescom asia, scheduled for October 17th and 18th, will feature a plethora of B2B networking opportunities, knowledge-sharing sessions, and the highly anticipated pitch competition. Over 80 industry experts will present at the conference, covering the latest gaming trends, game design principles, and marketing strategies.

The entertainment area, open to the public from October 18th to 20th, will offer a variety of activities including game demos, live stage entertainment, and meet-and-greet sessions with popular gaming personalities. The expanded indie area, in partnership with Indie Wavemakers, will feature dozens of indie developers showcasing their latest creations.

gamescom asia 2024 expects to attract over 40,000 visitors and more than 150 exhibitors, solidifying its status as a key event in the global gaming calendar. For more information, visit gamescom.asia.

About gamescom asia

gamescom asia is the leading platform for Asian game developers to forge global partnerships and serves as a hub for international publishers seeking the next big hit in gaming. The event showcases new releases and gaming-related offerings, covering the full spectrum of gaming culture through its business area, entertainment area, and industry gaming conference. Organised by Koelnmesse Singapore and supported by game – the German Games Industry Association, gamescom asia highlights the diversity and vibrancy of the Asian gaming scene.

About gamescom

gamescom is the world’s largest event for computer and video games and Europe’s foremost business platform for the games industry. In 2024, gamescom will be held in Cologne and online from August 20th to August 25th. Jointly organised by Koelnmesse and game – Verband der deutschen Games-Branche e.V., gamescom unites passionate gamers, trade visitors, and exhibitors from around the globe both in person and digitally, making it a premier B2C, B2B, and B2G gaming event.

Koelnmesse – Industry Trade Fairs for the Gaming Sector

Koelnmesse is a global leader in organising trade fairs within the gaming and entertainment sectors. Its flagship event, gamescom, held in Cologne, Germany, is the largest of its kind worldwide, bringing together gamers, trade visitors, and exhibitors from across the globe. With a strategic approach combining physical and digital attendance, gamescom offers a comprehensive B2C, B2B, and B2G experience. Koelnmesse is also expanding its international portfolio, with gamescom asia in Singapore serving the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific market and gamescom latam in Brazil, catering to the dynamic Latin American market.

The post CAPCOM Returns to gamescom asia, Shawn Layden Headlines Business Conference appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Melissa Wilton, Butterfly’s Head of Communications and Engagement, praised Think HQ’s innovative and heartfelt approach. She said, “Think HQ came to us with a considered and innovative pitch, and an obvious passion for Butterfly’s work and purpose. We were impressed with Think’s genuine commitment to tell the Butterfly story, and we are excited to be working alongside the team to drive important conversations that dismantle stereotypes, break down stigma and encourage help seeking.”

This announcement is timely, given the rising concern over eating disorders in Australia. The latest “Paying The Price” report by Butterfly Foundation reveals a staggering 21% increase in eating disorders since 2012, affecting an estimated 1.1 million Australians in 2024.

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Wilton further emphasized the urgent need for increased visibility and support, stating, “Calls to the national Helpline and demand for treatment services are increasing exponentially, yet we know that less than 30% of people with an eating disorder seek help – so this represents a massive problem. It’s never been more critical to be visible, share our stories and amplify the voices of lived experience. Think HQ’s unique offering coupled with their team’s experience make them an ideal partner to help us achieve our communications priorities, of which there are many!”

Think HQ’s Founder & Managing Director, Jen Sharpe, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled to be acting as an extension of Butterfly’s dedicated and passionate team. We see this as the start of an incredible working relationship and cannot wait to tell important stories together. As the positive change agency, Think HQ is perfectly placed as Butterfly’s communications partner, and we look forward to driving real impact together.”

The partnership’s first significant project will be unveiled in September during Body Image and Eating Disorders Awareness Week (BIEDAW).

About Think HQ

Think HQ is an award-winning, full-service agency working with like-minded clients to create positive outcomes for people, places, and our planet. With over 90 staff across its Melbourne and Sydney offices, including specialist multicultural communications arm, CultureVerse, Think HQ is The Positive Change Agency.

The post Butterfly Foundation Appoints Think HQ as Retained Communications Partner to Amplify Impact appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

In a joint media statement, the partnership was heralded as a significant step towards enabling startups to secure funds through the pitchIN platform while receiving vital support and guidance throughout their fundraising journey.

UMTJ Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Dr Ahmad Ramzi Mohamad Zubir, underscored UMT’s vast intellectual property portfolio, which includes patents, industrial designs, innovation utilities, trademarks, proprietary rights, and trade secrets, all primed for commercialization. “In 2023 alone, UMT registered a total of 60 intellectual property assets, including 40 products as proprietary rights, 13 as trade secrets, and 4 registered patents, with other categorizations of intellectual properties,” he noted.

Highlighting the underutilization of these intellectual assets, Dato’ Dr Ahmad Ramzi emphasized that their commercial potential represents untapped revenue for both UMT and Malaysia. The collaboration with pitchIN aims to bridge this gap by linking UMT’s startups with potential investors through the pitchIN platform.

PitchIN, a Digital Fundraising and Investment Hub, is recognized by the Securities Commission Malaysia as a Registered Market Operator (RMO). It offers both Equity Crowdfunding (ECF) and Token Crowdfunding (TCF) platforms. To date, pitchIN has successfully conducted 177 ECF campaigns, raising over RM325 million.

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Sam Shafie, CEO of pitchIN, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with UMTJ to support the growth of startups originating from UMT’s research. This partnership not only expands access to alternative financing for UMTJ’s startup companies but also helps commercialize existing intellectual assets.”

In conjunction with this agreement, UMTJ’s startup companies will benefit from the Fundraising Accelerator (FA), an entrepreneurship program launched by pitchIN Academy in October 2022. This initiative aims to equip UMT startup founders with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully raise funds for their businesses.

The signing ceremony was attended by notable figures including YBbhg. Dato’ Dzulkifli Mahmud, Chairman of the UMTJ Committee; YBrs. Prof. ChM Dr. Marinah Mohd Ariffin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) of UMT; and Xelia Tong, COO of pitchIN.

The post UMT Jaya Holdings and pitchIN Forge Alliance to Boost Startup Fundraising appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Banquet 18, a premier luxury food service, operating under the umbrella of Flavours Culinary Solutions, Bangalore has positioned itself as a bespoke catering service for luxury weddings, premium social events, and niche corporate gatherings. 

Banquet 18 has managed to carve a niche for itself in the luxury catering industry. They stand out for its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and its unique approach to food styling and culinary innovation. The brand’s spirit is encapsulated in its belief that “Food is an expression of love,” a philosophy that drives every aspect of its service. From intricately designed menus to personalized culinary creations, Banquet 18 ensures that each event is luxurious and unforgettable.

“Our goal with Banquet 18 is to create dining experiences that not only satisfy but also delight and inspire,” said Tanya Quadros, the founder of Banquet 18. “We are dedicated to bringing the best of global and Indian cuisines together, crafted with the finest ingredients and presented with unparalleled elegance.” Banquet 18 has been bringing families together through food, celebrating the union of diverse cultures with personalized and exquisite catering solutions.

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Banquet 18 incorporates a wide array of services, including customized food styling, tailor-made recipes, and collaboration with top industry experts to deliver integrative culinary experiences. The brand has already made a significant impact, catering to high-profile weddings, exclusive social events, and prestigious corporate functions.  

They also specialize in curating bespoke menus that reflect the unique tastes and traditions of each wedding. By blending authenticity with innovation, they create food memories that become cherished stories. The brand’s meticulous attention to detail, from sourcing the finest ingredients to offering tasting sessions, ensures that every dish is a masterpiece.

About Banquet 18

 It is a premier bespoke wedding catering venture based in Bengaluru, dedicated to crafting extraordinary dining experiences for guests. Their meticulously esigned menus offer a unique blend of multicultural and traditional cuisines, catering to diverse palates with personalized service and attention to detail. Banquet 18 delivers superior culinary delights, ensuring each event is a memorable celebration of fine dining at competitive prices.

The post Banquet 18™ taking Luxury Catering to New Heights with their “Food is an Expression of Love” Ideology appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

The Affinidi Iota Framework shifts the paradigm by processing queries within a personal data vault. This ensures transparency and grants individuals complete control over what data is shared and with whom. Such an approach not only democratizes data access for developers but also preserves privacy through modern open standards, including W3C Verifiable Credentials, DIF Decentralized Identifiers, and OAuth 2.0.

In the traditional digital landscape, sensitive data is often shared without transparency, leading to potential misuse and breaches. According to a Twilio report, 60% of Asia-Pacific consumers demand clear communication on data use. A PwC study also highlights a trust gap, with only 30% of consumers trusting businesses. Affinidi’s Iota Framework disrupts this model by eliminating the need to collect and store non-essential data, thereby reducing risks and empowering individuals.

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Empowering Developers and Enhancing Data Security

The Affinidi Iota Framework provides developers with user-friendly templates and robust tools, making it easy to set up privacy-preserving data-sharing processes. The Affinidi Trust Development Kit (TDK), an open-source SDK, enables developers to integrate identity management, verifiable credential handling, and login configurations into their applications seamlessly. Supporting languages like TypeScript and Python, the framework bridges Web 2 and Web 3 technologies, leveraging decentralized data for just-in-time acquisition.

Roopesh Shah, Co-Founder and CTO of Gro Club, India’s largest bicycle subscription model, shared his experience: “We began with Affinidi Login to simplify access to individual data through a one-click onboarding process. With the Affinidi Iota Framework, we are thrilled to advance beyond efficient customer onboarding, laying the groundwork for a future where every interaction is precisely tailored to individual preferences based on accurate and consented data.”

Built on Open Standards for Seamless Integration

At the heart of the Affinidi Iota Framework is the DIF Presentation Exchange (PEX) specification, which uses JSONPATH to enable powerful filtering capabilities for data exchange. This structured syntax simplifies data sharing and enhances interoperability across systems. Building on the OAuth 2.0 authorization framework, the OID4VP protocol provides a secure transport mechanism for Verifiable Presentations, ensuring data authenticity and reducing fraud risks.

Revolutionizing Data Exchange and Ownership

Affinidi is leading a global movement to return data ownership to individuals through its Holistic Identity concept. This approach addresses the fragmentation of digital identities across platforms, promoting a user-first philosophy with privacy by design.

Glenn Gore, CEO of Affinidi, stated, “In a new world where individuals can control their identity and data, we must redefine how information is shared. The Affinidi Iota Framework represents a major step forward in safeguarding privacy and consent by shifting information processing to the individual’s personal data vault.”

The beta version of the Affinidi Iota Framework is now accessible through the Affinidi Portal. Learn more about this revolutionary framework here.

The post Revolutionizing Data Privacy: Affinidi Iota Framework Unveils World’s First Consent-Based Data Sharing Built on Open Standards appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Originally released in 2023, Boat Story was commissioned by BBC One, UK and Amazon Freevee, US Germany. The 6×60’ thriller was written by Harry and Jack Williams and produced by the award-winning Two Brothers Pictures (an All3Media production company), in association with All3Media International. This thriller with a darkly comic heart has captivated audiences worldwide with its gripping and innovative storytelling.

After having successfully adapted Ray Donovan for Netflix India, Locomotive Global Media continues to make it a priority to bring premium international formats to the Indian audience.

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Speaking on the acquisition, Roshni Ghosh, Producer at Locomotive Global Media said “We at Locomotive Global Media take enormous satisfaction in our ability to adapt international formats to suit the Indian audience. We are incredibly excited to bring ‘Boat Story’ to India. On our journey to engage with millions of viewers, we are delighted to be able to collaborate with the most prolific creative minds in India and our partners at All3Media International to present stories that defy formulaic narratives and deliver an unparalleled entertainment experience.”

Jaenani Netra, VP, Sales Finished & Formats (Asia) at All3Media International expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, “Locomotive Global Media’s partnership with All3Media International presents such exciting times for India as this is our first scripted format deal together. It is a great choice of show, as Boat Story doubles up as a gripping thriller and as a darkly comic drama. With Mayank Sharma and Locomotive Global Media leading this adaptation, we are looking forward to seeing Boat Story take definite shape with the best on board!”

Adding further, showrunner and director, Mayank Sharma said, “I am really happy to be working on the adaptation of ‘Boat Story’. It is a fun, madly entertaining show with relatable yet quirky characters that keep you hooked until the end. While we aim to preserve the original’s essence, we are excited to infuse local flavour and fresh perspectives into our version that packs the show with action, humour and thrills specifically tailored for the Indian viewer.”

The post Locomotive Global Media Acquires India Exclusive Rights for All3Media International’s ‘Boat Story’ appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

The Rise of AI and Cloud in Business Transformation

Today’s CIOs are navigating the dual challenges of leveraging AI and cloud as strategic drivers for business transformation. A report by Morgan Stanley reveals that 68% of CIOs expect generative AI and large language models (LLMs) to directly impact their investment priorities. Additionally, with the ongoing shift to the public cloud—currently hosting 36% of application workloads and projected to reach 53% by 2026—both areas have emerged as top IT expenditure priorities.

Muhi Majzoub, EVP and Chief Product Officer at OpenText, highlighted the transition from testing basic AI fundamentals in 2023 to scaling generative AI in 2024. He stated, “OpenText enables customers to confidently navigate their cloud, security, and AI journeys, establishing trust in data integrity as we enter a new era of integrated information growth and agility. Our key innovation in this release centers around helping our customers shift left and adopt DevSecOps with AI. OpenText Cloud is helping customers rethink software delivery with OpenText Aviator.”

Transformative Innovations in CE 24.3

OpenText’s latest AI-enabled innovations are designed to meet the growing demand for robust solutions that drive growth, emphasizing the company’s 30 years of expertise in information management. The Titanium X strategic product roadmap, set to be delivered by CE 25.2, continues to drive digital transformation with significant new offerings in CE 24.3 across Business AI, Business Cloud, and Business Technology.

Business AI

• OpenText DevOps Aviator: This tool accelerates application delivery by using testing bots to automatically generate codeless tests from manual tests, reducing risks and talent shortages. Its AI-guided smart assistant provides quick answers and summaries on features, tasks, tests, and user stories, streamlining development workflows for greater efficiency.
• OpenText Fortify Aviator: This solution automates the auditing and remediation of Static Application Security Testing (SAST) vulnerabilities, leveraging AI to identify and fix issues. It seamlessly integrates fix suggestions into the DevOps workflow, providing audits and explanations in user-friendly terms. For data scientists, it protects against prompt injection attacks, model compromise, and vulnerabilities in LLMs.

According to the OpenText State of Code Security report, 57% of organizations are already adopting DevSecOps practices, with 72% focusing on securing business-critical apps as digital threats evolve in the age of AI.

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Business Cloud

• OpenText Content Aviator: Now available on OpenText Core Content, OpenText Extended ECM, and OpenText Documentum, this tool enhances automation and speed in content management workflows. It empowers users to efficiently interact with content and extract knowledge in the cloud and on-premises, expanding its collaborative capabilities to include high-quality video content, enabling conversion, streaming, annotation, and clipping directly within the platform.

Business Technology

• OpenText Thrust Studio: Now on general release, this tool provides developers with a real-time digital assistant powered by generative AI. It offers on-demand support, quick access to relevant code samples, and API documentation within the Visual Studio environment, boosting application development and end-to-end productivity.
• OpenText Cloud for Government: Achieving “fully authorized” status by the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP®) in the United States, this solution enables federal agencies to automate workflows, manage content throughout its lifecycle, and gain a comprehensive view of their content, ensuring robust security controls and compliance measures.

Client Testimonials and Future Outlook

Hans Pezold, Senior Vice President of Information Technology and Managing Director at Uniper, praised the partnership with OpenText, stating, “Partnering with OpenText, with their expertise in information management, cloud, and AI, was a natural fit because it allowed us to reduce resource consumption and administrative effort – a huge win for us. Working with OpenText is just the beginning of our digital transformation journey, and their forward-thinking approach to developing innovative suites of capabilities – whether that is cloud or AI – will be integral in further optimizing our processes and driving innovation forward.”

Availability and Additional Resources

As part of the quarterly OpenText Cloud Editions releases, customers benefit from new AI capabilities every 90 days. For more information on availability or to join a beta program for future innovations, contact OpenText.

Additional Resources:

• For further insights into the latest release, visit our Chief Product Officer’s blog post.
• Learn more about OpenText’s AI strategy.

About OpenText

OpenText is the leading Information Management software and services company globally, helping organizations solve complex problems with a comprehensive suite of Business Clouds, Business AI, and Business Technology. For more information about OpenText (NASDAQ/TSX: OTEX), please visit www.opentext.com.

The post OpenText™ Unveils Cutting-Edge AI and Cloud Innovations with Cloud Editions (CE) 24.3 appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

The importance of authenticity in online dating cannot be overstated. According to a recent survey, 85% of singles believe that their dating app profiles are crucial in representing their true selves. However, 52% find it challenging to choose the right profile image, and 68% expressed interest in an AI feature to assist with photo selection.

This new feature is especially beneficial for men, as most single women prefer profiles with at least four images that genuinely reflect the individual’s personality. Men who include more than one face photo in their profiles see a 71% increase in their likelihood of matching with women. Photo Selector offers a digital companion that curates a diverse selection of photos from users’ camera rolls, optimized to help them find a match.

Focus on Real Connections

Singles aged 18-24 spend an average of 33 minutes selecting the right profile photo. Photo Selector alleviates this burden, allowing users to focus more on making genuine connections rather than spending excessive time on photo selection. This AI innovation promises to inject more spontaneity into the online dating experience.

The advent of smartphones and handheld cameras has introduced the paradox of choice amidst a plethora of options. AI technology is addressing this challenge, providing users with the tools they need to make quicker, more effective decisions.

“We’re proud to be the first dating app to roll out an AI tool that can make the profile-building experience significantly easier—an area we know is one of the hardest parts of dating,” said Faye Iosotaluno, CEO of Tinder. “As the category leader, we’re pushing ourselves to define the industry’s best use cases for meaningful consumer AI integrations. Our commitment to our users is clear and equally applies to our view of AI: at Tinder, we develop innovative technologies to create a safer space for people to make authentic connections.”

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Effortless Photo Selection

Using Photo Selector is simple. Users snap a selfie for facial recognition, grant access to their camera roll, and let Tinder’s AI technology curate a selection of images for review. Users then decide which pictures to add to their profiles. While Photo Selector simplifies the process of selecting profile photos, there are still effective ways to present oneself for a great first impression.

Capturing the Ideal Images

Tinder Resident Dating Expert Devyn Simone offers tips on choosing profile photos that truly reflect your personality:

1. Find Your Light: Opt for well-lit photos, with natural light being your best friend. Seek out shaded spots on sunny days and snap a few variations for a variety of options.
2. Avoid Confusion: Keep group photos to a minimum. People are here to meet you, not your entire friend group. Choose bright, fun solo photos.
3. Clean That Lens: Ensure your camera lens is clean to avoid blurry photos. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth makes a significant difference.
4. Have Fun: Show off different sides of your personality with various photos: headshots, action shots, social shots, and candid shots.
5. Mix It Up: Regularly update your profile with new photos to keep it current and exciting.

Photo Selector will be available in the U.S. starting in July, with international markets to follow later this summer.

The post Tinder Unveils AI-Powered ‘Photo Selector’ to Simplify Profile Picture Selection appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Unlike conventional chatbots limited to handling specific queries, Einstein Service Agent is both intelligent and dynamic. Built on the robust Einstein 1 Platform, it leverages large language models (LLMs) to analyze the full context of customer messages, autonomously determining the necessary actions. By using generative AI, it crafts conversational responses that are grounded in a company’s trusted business data, including Salesforce CRM data, and tailored to align with the company’s brand voice and guidelines.

For service organizations, this innovation means a substantial reduction in tedious inquiries that hinder productivity, allowing human agents to focus on more complex tasks. Customers benefit from faster responses, eliminating the frustrating wait times associated with human agents.

Einstein Service Agent is available 24/7, communicating in natural language, responding across self-service portals and messaging channels, and performing tasks proactively. When complex issues arise, it seamlessly hands off to human agents, ensuring smooth transitions without requiring customers to repeat themselves.

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Currently in pilot and expected to be generally available later this year, Einstein Service Agent offers quick setup with user-friendly interfaces, pre-built templates, and low-code actions and workflows.

“Salesforce is delivering a future where human and digital workers join forces to improve the customer experience,” said Service Cloud General Manager Kishan Chetan. “Einstein Service Agent, our first fully autonomous AI agent, will not just complete service jobs on its own; it will augment human workers and completely transform how service teams operate, making them far more efficient and productive. We are reimagining customer service for the AI era.”

Why It Matters:

Studies show that most companies use chatbots today, yet 81% of customers prefer waiting to speak to a live agent due to the inadequacies of current chatbots. Meanwhile, 61% of customers favor self-service for simple issues, highlighting the need for more intelligent, autonomous agents powered by generative AI.

Dive Deeper:

Human-like Reasoning and Responses: Einstein Service Agent engages in easy, human-like conversations with customers. Its reasoning engine interacts with LLMs to understand the full context of customer input, drawing logical inferences to determine appropriate actions. It then executes these actions and generates responses that adhere to a company’s brand voice and guidelines.

For example, if a customer contacts an online shoe store to return a recent purchase, Einstein Service Agent can autonomously process the return, leveraging Salesforce Data Cloud to access necessary customer and business data.

24/7 Swift Resolutions Driven by Trusted Data: Einstein Service Agent bases its responses on trusted business data, including Salesforce CRM data, and can integrate data from third-party systems to generate personalized responses.

For instance, if a telecommunications customer seeks a new cell phone, Einstein Service Agent provides personalized recommendations grounded in a wide range of data, emulating the assistance of a store associate.

Built-in Guardrails: The Einstein Trust Layer ensures security by masking personally identifiable information (PII) and defining parameters for the AI agent to follow.

Quick Setup: With out-of-the-box templates, Salesforce components, and a choice of LLMs, Einstein Service Agent can be activated in minutes. Companies can reuse existing Salesforce objects to equip the AI agent with necessary skills efficiently.

Cross-channel and Multimodal Innovation: Einstein Service Agent assists customers across various self-service portals and messaging channels, understanding text, images, video, and audio.

For example, in a manufacturing scenario, if troubleshooting steps fail, customers can upload pictures for Einstein Service Agent to analyze and decide on further actions, such as sending replacement units.

Seamless Handoffs to Human Agents: When inquiries exceed its scope, Einstein Service Agent seamlessly transfers conversations to human agents, who can continue without requiring customers to repeat information.

For example, in a life insurance context, if sensitive language related to “loss” or “death” is detected, Einstein Service Agent escalates to a human agent for personal care.

Customer Quote: “Einstein Service Agent’s speed and accuracy in handling customer inquiries is promising. It understands and responds like a human, adhering to our diverse, country-specific guidelines. I can see it becoming an integral part of our service team, freeing our human agents to tackle higher value issues.” – George Pokorny, SVP of Global Customer Success, OpenTable

Learn More:

• Watch “The Rise of AI Agents: What Service Leaders Need to Know” LinkedIn Live on July 18 at 11am PT.
• Explore how Service Cloud Einstein boosts productivity and reduces costs in this Valoir Report.

Learn more about AI Service Cloud.

The post Revolutionizing Customer Service: Salesforce Unveils Einstein Service Agent, an Autonomous AI Innovator appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

The expanded delivery range now covers a wider area, including popular neighborhoods such as Sentul, Bangsar, Old Klang Road, Mont Kiara, Bukit Damansara, and Ampang Jaya. Customers can also opt for the convenience of picking up their orders directly from the restaurant via the foodpanda platform.

Shake Shack’s arrival in Malaysia has been nothing short of sensational. Since opening at The Exchange TRX on April 10, 2024, the international fast-casual restaurant chain has captured the hearts and taste buds of Kuala Lumpur’s food enthusiasts. Known for their iconic burgers, crispy fries, and delectable milkshakes, Shake Shack has quickly become the talk of the town.

Also Read: Multipl Secures $1.5M Funding to Revolutionize Personal Finance with ‘Spendvesting’

From its humble beginnings as a hot dog cart in New York City’s Madison Square Park, featuring the beloved Flat-Top Sausage, Shake Shack has expanded into a gourmet fast-casual sensation with over 377 locations worldwide. Now, Shake Shack brings its culinary magic to Malaysia with a menu carefully crafted to suit local tastes. In addition to the legendary ShackBurger, the menu includes exclusive local delights such as the Bunga Raya Shake and the SmokeShack, made with Streaky Beef for a Muslim-friendly option.

Vegetarians are not left out, as Shake Shack offers delicious meatless choices, ensuring that every Malaysian can enjoy their mouthwatering meals.

This partnership underscores foodpanda’s commitment to providing convenient and efficient ways for customers to enjoy high-quality meals at affordable prices. Don’t miss out on this exciting culinary journey. Check out the full menu and place an order here.

The post Enjoy Free Delivery on Shake Shack Orders via foodpanda Until August 2024 appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Months of meticulous planning, brainstorming, and trialling have culminated in the introduction of the Lunch Global Bowls and Environmentally Conscious Menu. These offerings aim to invigorate and inspire, ensuring every attendee is satisfied and ready to engage.

Inspired by the natural beauty of the Gold Coast, GCCEC’s kitchen and marketing teams collaborated on a captivating food video to celebrate 20 years of culinary excellence in this stunning destination. This video showcases the culinary team’s prowess in creating bespoke dishes inspired by the Gold Coast’s vibrant surroundings.

“The launch of our new menus and food reel marks an exciting chapter for GCCEC,” said Garry Kindred, Executive Chef at GCCEC. “We are committed to offering innovative and sustainable culinary options that not only delight the taste buds but also support our environmental goals.”

Also Read: Multipl Secures $1.5M Funding to Revolutionize Personal Finance with ‘Spendvesting’

Key Menu Highlights

Global Bowls Offering

GCCEC introduces the Global Bowls, a diverse selection of internationally inspired dishes catering to various palates and dietary preferences. These bowls provide a culturally inclusive culinary experience for event planners and delegates.

Environmentally Conscious Menu

This newly curated menu features the most sustainable dishes from GCCEC’s offerings, showcasing the team’s commitment to green practices and providing delicious options that are kind to the planet.

About Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC)

GCCEC, Australia’s largest regional convention centre, has been offering state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional service for the past 20 years. Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, it provides a versatile space for conferences, exhibitions, and events, paired with world-class catering and hospitality. The dedicated team at GCCEC ensures every event is extraordinary.

The post GCCEC Unveils Eco-Friendly and Global Culinary Delights appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

David Kennedy, WiredCo. Partner, highlighted the motivation behind the move: “The more diverse our business becomes – not just in ethnicity, but also intergenerational working, beliefs, and ability – the more obvious it has become that the fixed traditional public holiday approach was no longer right.”

The initiative comes as a response to the growing demand for holiday flexibility, underscored by a recent Perkbox Australia study revealing that 58% of respondents prefer customizable public holidays. Angela Hampton, WiredCo. Founder & Managing Director, elaborated, “For us, it wasn’t just about finding a solution to Australia Day. We also had to think about people who don’t celebrate Christmas and Easter for religious reasons, and those who don’t celebrate The King’s birthday because they don’t place value in a monarchy.”

Also Read: Multipl Secures $1.5M Funding to Revolutionize Personal Finance with ‘Spendvesting’

The WiredCo. team unanimously supported the initiative, as Michelle Hampton, WiredCo. Partner, noted: “When we consulted our team, we discovered they were 100% in favour of ‘Public Holidays Just Got Personal’ because it showed trust, cultural-connectiveness, and helped them create a personal working style that was respectful and effective for them.”

However, implementing this initiative came with its challenges. Nikki Cranley, WiredCo. CFO, explained, “We’re an independent business, so any change presents a host of questions. We had to think about how to track these days, how best they accrue, how the team takes them, and how they communicate that flexibility with their teammates and clients.”

WiredWellness aims to support staff in their mental and physical wellness while providing job flexibility. Angela Hampton emphasized, “WiredWellness wasn’t a response to the pandemic lockdown working environment, it started long before that. We wanted to give our team space to decompress, so we created our monthly ReWired events. Then we gave our people access to a counselor to help them manage their mental wellbeing, so we made access to that unlimited.”

WiredCo. has a track record of pioneering employee-friendly policies, including remote working and ‘Pet-ernity’ leave. David Kennedy proudly stated, “We’re proud to say that WiredWellness has helped us achieve 95% team happiness, 97% job satisfaction, and stabilized retention at 81%. And we firmly believe it’s helped us commercially, with the business almost quadrupling in three years.”

As one of Australia’s fastest-growing independent creative brandformance businesses, WiredCo. is home to iconic brands like Pizza Hut, R.M.Williams, Red Bull, THE ICONIC, Peters Ice Cream, Georg Jensen, and Indeed. Their people-first culture continues to drive their success and innovation in the industry.

Check out WiredCo.: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

The post WiredCo. Pioneers Culturally Flexible Public Holidays with ‘Public Holidays Just Got Personal’ Initiative appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

With a unified approach to service design and technology change, the partnership addresses all facets of digital transformation needs within the marketing ecosystem. Chris Dodds, Co-Founder of ICON, stated, “Australian businesses and government departments need robust, flexible, and scalable solutions to meet clients’ evolving needs. Our partnership utilizes the power of Salesforce, Drupal, and GovCMS to deliver customized content, targeted communications, and best-in-class user experiences. We’re excited to partner with Xenai Digital to expand our client service offering.”

Headquartered in Melbourne with a national presence, ICON excels in end-to-end user engagement and creative communications campaigns. Their deep expertise in Drupal and GovCMS SaaS/PaaS, complemented by in-house capabilities in brand, PR, communications, behavior change, and media training, ensures comprehensive service delivery.

Also Read: Multipl Secures $1.5M Funding to Revolutionize Personal Finance with ‘Spendvesting’

Xenai Digital, an Australian agency, accelerates the path to value from Salesforce adoption, enabling clients to fully leverage their data and technology investments to demonstrate ROI. The team’s strong focus on customer experience (CX) automation drives growth and engagement with unmatched efficiency. By delivering exceptional value and maximizing tangible business returns, Xenai Digital is at the forefront of digital transformation.

The synergy between Xenai Digital’s Salesforce proficiency and ICON’s extensive capabilities in experience design and open-source solutions promises to deliver revolutionary outcomes. This partnership leverages the best of both worlds, offering clients end-to-end service design and technology upgrades tailored to their specific needs.

The post ICON and Xenai Digital Join Forces for Revolutionary Digital Transformation Solutions appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

• HKTDC’s Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks have attracted 760 exhibitors to participate in the seven-day events
• The Book Fair’s theme this year is Film and Television Literature. Renowned writers such as Jin Yucheng, author of Blossoms, and Yuyi, author of City of Darkness, will share their creative journey
• The World of Art & Culture showcases works from 31 countries and regions, including AI-powered interactive installations
• The Sports and Leisure Expo offers a check-in spot for cheering on Hong Kong’s Olympic athletes while the World of Snacks gathers more than 1,200 snacks from across the globe
• Entry before noon costs HK$10 with an Octopus card, and full price ticket holders who enter on the first two days can enjoy free re-entry at certain time slots. Children aged 0-3 and adults aged 65 or above will be admitted free of charge

The 34th HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, 7th HKTDC Sports and Leisure Expo and 4th HKTDC World of Snacks all commence today, running for seven days (17 to 23 July) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the three summer cultural and leisure events offer a diverse range of activities that cater for the whole family. The opening ceremony for the fairs took place this morning, officiated by Raistlin Lau, Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, and accompanied by Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ms Fong said: “The HKTDC is committed to promoting Hong Kong’s business development and injecting vitality into the Hong Kong economy through organising mega events such as these, solidifying the city’s reputation as the events capital of Asia. This year’s Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks have attracted 760 exhibitors, providing an important promotional and business platform for different industries while allowing visitors to enjoy diverse activities spanning reading, sports, leisure, and snack shopping. This year’s Book Fair, an annual summer cultural event in Hong Kong, will stage more than 600 cultural activities on-site and off-site, inviting over 250 prominent Chinese and foreign-language writers and celebrities to host seminars, promoting literary exchange and connecting book lovers through literature.”

The Book Fair continues to receive funding from the HKSAR Government’s Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency to support featured activities, including the World of Art & Culture, the International Publishing Forum and the debut of the IP Roundtable.

Theme of the year seminar series delves into film and TV literature

This year’s Book Fair, with the theme Film and Television Literature and the tagline “Reading the World: Storytelling from Page to Screen”, focuses on featured writers such as Erica Li, Raymond To, Joyce Chan, Norris Wong, Chiang Hiu Mei and Law Kar. The Art Gallery features two other exhibition zones, namely Featured Directors and Classic Literary Adaptations, introducing selected works by renowned filmmakers such as Wong Kar-wai, Ho Cheuk-tin, Nick Cheuk, Tsui Hark, Ann Hui and Stanley Kwan, as well as paying tribute to literary masters like Yi Shu, Lilian Lee, Jin Yong, Ni Kuang and Eileen Chang.

Featured writers of the year and featured directors are invited to explore the intersection of film, television and literature through the Theme of the Year Seminar Series. Earlier today, Raymond To kicked off the series with his talk on “Transforming Texts into Lines and Dialogues”, while renowned director Stanley Kwan will share his unique perspectives on women, film and literary adaptations on 20 July.

World of Art & Culture promotes cultural exchange

The World of Art & Culture provides booklovers with a multifaceted understanding of literature in film and television from 31 countries and regions. In addition to works from Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, it also presents pieces from Argentina, Colombia, the Czech Republic, France, Indonesia, Korea, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines, Spain, Switzerland, Vietnam and more. This year, the World of Art & Culture features two interactive installations. Trailing the Scenes showcases Hong Kong film shooting locations and related literary works on an interactive map, allowing visitors to download relevant images, while the Shifting the Scripts by AI installation enables visitors to input keywords to re-compose classic film scenes using AI, allowing them to experience the creative process.

Furthermore, the World of Art & Culture features a miniature of the Kowloon Walled City. Yuyi, author of the novel City of Darkness that was adapted into the hit film Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, will join the Book Fair in person and host a seminar titled “City of Darkness  – From Novel to Film” to share his creative journey.

This year, the Mainland China Publishers Zone at the Book Fair is highlighting Beijing as the thematic city, with the theme Beijing and Hong Kong Weave Dreams Together – Painting a Vibrant Chapter through Literary Splendour. The zone will showcase books and creative products which embody historical and cultural characteristics of Beijing, demonstrating the charm of the nation’s capital through the achievements of its modern development.

Cultivating a reading culture through acclaimed writers

The Book Fair continues to feature the Eight Seminar Series, with authors invited to share and exchange ideas on topics including Renowned Writers, English and International Reading, World of Knowledge, Children and Youth Reading, Hong Kong Cultural and Historical, Lifestyle and Personal Development and Spiritual Growth, in addition to the Theme of the Year series. The Renowned Writers Seminar Series, co-organised with Ming Pao and Yazhou Zhoukan, has invited renowned Chinese-language authors from the mainland, Taiwan and Hong Kong to share their creative insights. On 20 July, Jin Yucheng, author of the novel that was adapted into the TV drama Blossoms, will delve into the charismatic Shanghai depicted in his creation. Pioneer of Chinese avant-garde fiction Su Tong will share his creative journey on the same day in a talk titled “The Intersecting Paths of Literature”. Other featured authors include Mao Jian, Zhu Tianyi, Shum Sai-shing, Ng See-yuen, Perry Lam, Ban Yu, Xu Zidong, Chen Chongzheng, Jiao Tong, Shan Weijian, Qiao Ye, Huang Deng, Ge Liang, Lei Chien, Cai Chongda and Ian Huen.

The English and International Reading Seminar Series continues to welcome leading English-language authors from around the world. Today (17 July), British scholar Christopher Cowell, who examines the relationship between architecture and urban cultural history, will discuss urban development in Hong Kong from 1841 to 1849. Tomorrow (18 July), renowned Czech illustrator and animator Galina Miklínová will take the audience into the world of animation and introduce the Oddsockeaters. The Story Sharing by Celebrities session has invited CUHK Medical School Associate Dean Dr Teoh Yuen-chun, renowned pianist Lee Ka-ling and Ngong Ping 360 Managing Director Tung Pui-chuen to offer meaningful parent-child activities. For more details on the seminars and the line-up of speakers, please visit: https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html

Sports and Leisure Expo celebrates Olympic spirit

The quadrennial Olympic Games will kick off in Paris next week, and the public can get a head start on the electric atmosphere at the Sports and Leisure Expo. The event has invited star athletes to join sharing sessions, including Hong Kong Men’s Rugby Sevens representative Yiu Kam-shing, former Hong Kong Karatedo and Athletics representative Tong Cheuk-pan, and local ice hockey player Cheung Tsz-ching (who appeared in the TV drama Sparks), to share their ups and downs. The Hong Kong Sports Institute (Booth 5C-C02) has set up an instant photo booth encouraging the public to take pictures with props, which will be used to create a mosaic photo wall to show their support for Hong Kong athletes competing in the Olympics.

The Hong Kong Playground Association (Booth 5C-D02) has introduced a new parent-child zipline experience in the Sports Hub zone this year. Under the guidance of instructors, participants can navigate through various obstacles and glide along a 15-metre-long zipline to enjoy an exhilarating ride.

Maintaining health becomes much easier with technology. Hanlun GeronTech Limited’s (Booth 5C-B25) Tai Chi Robot was designed to cater for the elderly. It simulates the moves of an experienced tai chi master, helping seniors to train their muscles and prevent falls. Additionally, former Hong Kong triathlete Szeto Shiu-yan will share how she uses sports data to analyse her performance and plan her daily training.

The perennially popular Japan Pavilion has expanded once again to reach its biggest scale since the pandemic. The World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai (Booth 5B-E11) is participating this year, introducing the expo theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, to visitors. The Japan National Tourism Organization (Booth 5B-D02) is teaming up with 18 Japanese prefectures to showcase the rich traditional culture of Japan, with Hokkaido Prefecture (Booth 5B-E02) introducing its latest travel information via virtual reality experiences and photo spots. The Ainu Indigenous Culture Experience zone highlights the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park.

The Sports and Leisure Expo is hosting nearly 60 exciting events and performances, including a local illustrator sharing session, an introduction to emerging musical instruments, a Speed Stacks Tournament and a Rhythmic Gymnastics Dance Performance, blending thrills, education and entertainment for the benefits of visitors.

World of Snacks offers comprehensive insights into global treats

This year’s World of Snacks has brought together more than 1,200 different snacks, divided into six zones – Travel Delights, Chocolate and Sweet Factory, Oldie Snacks, Yummy & Healthy, Party Time and Snack Bar – to present visitors with a variety of classic flavours, healthy options and taste sensations from across the globe.

Making its debut at the event, Nestlé (Booth 5B-B02) has launched new ice cream flavours and is offering special promotions, including a buy-one-get-one-free offer on ice cream cups or scoops, redeemable with any purchase receipt from the Book Fair or Sports and Leisure Expo. Additionally, a series of snack-related activities are being organised for visitors, such as the Natural Honey and Sesame Cake Making workshop and Mindfulness Coffee workshop.

Tickets for the Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks can be purchased through e-payment sponsor BoC Pay, other ticketing partners including Alipay HK, Alipay, 01 Space and Octopus, or at convenience stores around Hong Kong. A single ticket grants access to all three events. The adult ticket price remains at HK$30. Children aged 0-3 and adults aged 65 or above are admitted free of charge. Visitors who enter before 12 noon and pay with their Octopus card enjoy a discounted entry fee of HK$10. The HKTDC also offers a re-entry promotion to those who purchase full-price tickets for the first two days. Physical ticket sales are not available on-site at the Book Fair – visitors can pay with AlipayHK, Alipay or Octopus at the entrance.

Hong Kong Book Fair, Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks

Date	17-23 July 2024 (Wednesday to Tuesday)
Opening hours	Hong Kong Book Fair 17-22 July – 10am to 10pm 23 July – 9am to 5pm Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks 17-18 July – 10am to 9pm 19-20 July – 10am to 10pm 21-22 July – 10am to 9pm 23 July – 9am to 5pm
Venue	Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Admission	Adult: HK$30 Child: HK$10 (for primary school students/children under 1.2m tall) *Children aged 3 and under and adults aged 65 and over will be admitted free of charge.
Tickets	E-tickets are available for sale via the e-payment sponsor, the BoC Pay; and other ticketing partners, Alipay HK, Alipay, 01 Space and Octopus. Tickets are also available for sale at all 7-Eleven and Circle K stores and most of the ticketing platforms.
Concessionary tickets	Morning admission tickets (entry before noon, same price for adults and children): HK$10 (pay directly by Octopus for admission at the hall entrances only) Special re-entry promotion: Visitors who purchase a regular adult ticket (HK$30) or child ticket (HK$10) dated 17 or 18 July can enjoy free admission once in each of the following time slots by presenting the whole stub attached to the admission ticket or re-entry coupon distributed onsite: 1) 19-21 July (Friday to Sunday) after 7pm 2) 22 July (Monday) after 7pm Note: this offer is not applicable to other types of admission tickets (including morning admission tickets, concessionary tickets, VIP tickets and complimentary tickets) Super Pass: HK$88 Passholders have unlimited entry to the Book Fair and can use the special access channel to minimise queuing time.
Hong Kong Book Fair website and mobile app	www.hkbookfair.com hkbookfair.hktdc.com/HKBookfairApp.html (Check out the details of the book fair and register for the seminar)
Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo website	https://www.hktdc.com/event/hksportsleisureexpo/en
World of Snacks website	https://www.hktdc.com/event/worldofsnacks/en

Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

Hong Kong Book Fair, Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks
Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Anson Wong           Tel: (852) 3428 3413                      Email: awong@yuantung.com.hk
Agnes Yiu            Tel: (852) 3428 5690                      Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Tiffany Leung        Tel: (852) 3428 2361                      Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hk

Also read: Gaming’s Big Power-Up: Consumers Splashed $116 Billion on Mobile Gaming in 2021 – Two Thirds of Total Spend on All Apps

About HKTDC 

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

The post Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks open today appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Mega events offer diverse activities, boost local consumption

• HKTDC’s Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks have attracted 760 exhibitors to participate in the seven-day events
• The Book Fair’s theme this year is Film and Television Literature. Renowned writers such as Jin Yucheng, author of Blossoms, and Yuyi, author of City of Darkness, will share their creative journey
• The World of Art & Culture showcases works from 31 countries and regions, including AI-powered interactive installations
• The Sports and Leisure Expo offers a check-in spot for cheering on Hong Kong’s Olympic athletes while the World of Snacks gathers more than 1,200 snacks from across the globe
• Entry before noon costs HK$10 with an Octopus card, and full price ticket holders who enter on the first two days can enjoy free re-entry at certain time slots. Children aged 0-3 and adults aged 65 or above will be admitted free of charge

HONG KONG, July 18, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – 17 July 2024 – The 34th HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, 7th HKTDC Sports and Leisure Expo and 4th HKTDC World of Snacks all commence today, running for seven days (17 to 23 July) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the three summer cultural and leisure events offer a diverse range of activities that cater for the whole family. The opening ceremony for the fairs took place this morning, officiated by Raistlin Lau, Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, and accompanied by Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ms Fong said: “The HKTDC is committed to promoting Hong Kong’s business development and injecting vitality into the Hong Kong economy through organising mega events such as these, solidifying the city’s reputation as the events capital of Asia. This year’s Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks have attracted 760 exhibitors, providing an important promotional and business platform for different industries while allowing visitors to enjoy diverse activities spanning reading, sports, leisure, and snack shopping. This year’s Book Fair, an annual summer cultural event in Hong Kong, will stage more than 600 cultural activities on-site and off-site, inviting over 250 prominent Chinese and foreign-language writers and celebrities to host seminars, promoting literary exchange and connecting book lovers through literature.”

The Book Fair continues to receive funding from the HKSAR Government’s Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency to support featured activities, including the World of Art & Culture, the International Publishing Forum and the debut of the IP Roundtable.

Theme of the year seminar series delves into film and TV literature

This year’s Book Fair, with the theme Film and Television Literature and the tagline “Reading the World: Storytelling from Page to Screen”, focuses on featured writers such as Erica Li, Raymond To, Joyce Chan, Norris Wong, Chiang Hiu Mei and Law Kar. The Art Gallery features two other exhibition zones, namely Featured Directors and Classic Literary Adaptations, introducing selected works by renowned filmmakers such as Wong Kar-wai, Ho Cheuk-tin, Nick Cheuk, Tsui Hark, Ann Hui and Stanley Kwan, as well as paying tribute to literary masters like Yi Shu, Lilian Lee, Jin Yong, Ni Kuang and Eileen Chang.

Featured writers of the year and featured directors are invited to explore the intersection of film, television and literature through the Theme of the Year Seminar Series. Earlier today, Raymond To kicked off the series with his talk on “Transforming Texts into Lines and Dialogues”, while renowned director Stanley Kwan will share his unique perspectives on women, film and literary adaptations on 20 July.

World of Art & Culture promotes cultural exchange

The World of Art & Culture provides booklovers with a multifaceted understanding of literature in film and television from 31 countries and regions. In addition to works from Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, it also presents pieces from Argentina, Colombia, the Czech Republic, France, Indonesia, Korea, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines, Spain, Switzerland, Vietnam and more. This year, the World of Art & Culture features two interactive installations. Trailing the Scenes showcases Hong Kong film shooting locations and related literary works on an interactive map, allowing visitors to download relevant images, while the Shifting the Scripts by AI installation enables visitors to input keywords to re-compose classic film scenes using AI, allowing them to experience the creative process.

Furthermore, the World of Art & Culture features a miniature of the Kowloon Walled City. Yuyi, author of the novel City of Darkness that was adapted into the hit film Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, will join the Book Fair in person and host a seminar titled “City of Darkness  – From Novel to Film” to share his creative journey.

This year, the Mainland China Publishers Zone at the Book Fair is highlighting Beijing as the thematic city, with the theme Beijing and Hong Kong Weave Dreams Together – Painting a Vibrant Chapter through Literary Splendour. The zone will showcase books and creative products which embody historical and cultural characteristics of Beijing, demonstrating the charm of the nation’s capital through the achievements of its modern development.

Cultivating a reading culture through acclaimed writers

The Book Fair continues to feature the Eight Seminar Series, with authors invited to share and exchange ideas on topics including Renowned Writers, English and International Reading, World of Knowledge, Children and Youth Reading, Hong Kong Cultural and Historical, Lifestyle and Personal Development and Spiritual Growth, in addition to the Theme of the Year series. The Renowned Writers Seminar Series, co-organised with Ming Pao and Yazhou Zhoukan, has invited renowned Chinese-language authors from the mainland, Taiwan and Hong Kong to share their creative insights. On 20 July, Jin Yucheng, author of the novel that was adapted into the TV drama Blossoms, will delve into the charismatic Shanghai depicted in his creation. Pioneer of Chinese avant-garde fiction Su Tong will share his creative journey on the same day in a talk titled “The Intersecting Paths of Literature”. Other featured authors include Mao Jian, Zhu Tianyi, Shum Sai-shing, Ng See-yuen, Perry Lam, Ban Yu, Xu Zidong, Chen Chongzheng, Jiao Tong, Shan Weijian, Qiao Ye, Huang Deng, Ge Liang, Lei Chien, Cai Chongda and Ian Huen.

The English and International Reading Seminar Series continues to welcome leading English-language authors from around the world. Today (17 July), British scholar Christopher Cowell, who examines the relationship between architecture and urban cultural history, will discuss urban development in Hong Kong from 1841 to 1849. Tomorrow (18 July), renowned Czech illustrator and animator Galina Miklínová will take the audience into the world of animation and introduce the Oddsockeaters. The Story Sharing by Celebrities session has invited CUHK Medical School Associate Dean Dr Teoh Yuen-chun, renowned pianist Lee Ka-ling and Ngong Ping 360 Managing Director Tung Pui-chuen to offer meaningful parent-child activities. For more details on the seminars and the line-up of speakers, please visit: https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html

Sports and Leisure Expo celebrates Olympic spirit

The quadrennial Olympic Games will kick off in Paris next week, and the public can get a head start on the electric atmosphere at the Sports and Leisure Expo. The event has invited star athletes to join sharing sessions, including Hong Kong Men’s Rugby Sevens representative Yiu Kam-shing, former Hong Kong Karatedo and Athletics representative Tong Cheuk-pan, and local ice hockey player Cheung Tsz-ching (who appeared in the TV drama Sparks), to share their ups and downs. The Hong Kong Sports Institute (Booth 5C-C02) has set up an instant photo booth encouraging the public to take pictures with props, which will be used to create a mosaic photo wall to show their support for Hong Kong athletes competing in the Olympics.

The Hong Kong Playground Association (Booth 5C-D02) has introduced a new parent-child zipline experience in the Sports Hub zone this year. Under the guidance of instructors, participants can navigate through various obstacles and glide along a 15-metre-long zipline to enjoy an exhilarating ride.

Maintaining health becomes much easier with technology. Hanlun GeronTech Limited’s (Booth 5C-B25) Tai Chi Robot was designed to cater for the elderly. It simulates the moves of an experienced tai chi master, helping seniors to train their muscles and prevent falls. Additionally, former Hong Kong triathlete Szeto Shiu-yan will share how she uses sports data to analyse her performance and plan her daily training.

The perennially popular Japan Pavilion has expanded once again to reach its biggest scale since the pandemic. The World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai (Booth 5B-E11) is participating this year, introducing the expo theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, to visitors. The Japan National Tourism Organization (Booth 5B-D02) is teaming up with 18 Japanese prefectures to showcase the rich traditional culture of Japan, with Hokkaido Prefecture (Booth 5B-E02) introducing its latest travel information via virtual reality experiences and photo spots. The Ainu Indigenous Culture Experience zone highlights the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park.

The Sports and Leisure Expo is hosting nearly 60 exciting events and performances, including a local illustrator sharing session, an introduction to emerging musical instruments, a Speed Stacks Tournament and a Rhythmic Gymnastics Dance Performance, blending thrills, education and entertainment for the benefits of visitors.

World of Snacks offers comprehensive insights into global treats

This year’s World of Snacks has brought together more than 1,200 different snacks, divided into six zones – Travel Delights, Chocolate and Sweet Factory, Oldie Snacks, Yummy & Healthy, Party Time and Snack Bar – to present visitors with a variety of classic flavours, healthy options and taste sensations from across the globe.

Making its debut at the event, Nestlé (Booth 5B-B02) has launched new ice cream flavours and is offering special promotions, including a buy-one-get-one-free offer on ice cream cups or scoops, redeemable with any purchase receipt from the Book Fair or Sports and Leisure Expo. Additionally, a series of snack-related activities are being organised for visitors, such as the Natural Honey and Sesame Cake Making workshop and Mindfulness Coffee workshop.

Tickets for the Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks can be purchased through e-payment sponsor BoC Pay, other ticketing partners including Alipay HK, Alipay, 01 Space and Octopus, or at convenience stores around Hong Kong. A single ticket grants access to all three events. The adult ticket price remains at HK$30. Children aged 0-3 and adults aged 65 or above are admitted free of charge. Visitors who enter before 12 noon and pay with their Octopus card enjoy a discounted entry fee of HK$10. The HKTDC also offers a re-entry promotion to those who purchase full-price tickets for the first two days. Physical ticket sales are not available on-site at the Book Fair – visitors can pay with AlipayHK, Alipay or Octopus at the entrance.

Hong Kong Book Fair, Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks

Photo download: https://bit.ly/3y4lgPh

Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

Hong Kong Book Fair, Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks
Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Anson Wong           Tel: (852) 3428 3413                      Email: awong@yuantung.com.hk
Agnes Yiu            Tel: (852) 3428 5690                      Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Tiffany Leung        Tel: (852) 3428 2361                      Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hk

HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Hong Kong Book Fair
Snowy Chan           Tel: (852) 2584 4525                     Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.org
Sunny Ng             Tel: (852) 2584 4357                     Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org

Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo, World of Snacks
Jane Cheung          Tel: (852) 2584 4137                    Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org

HKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com

About HKTDC 
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. 

The post Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks open today appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

AlphaInvest Holdings Pte Ltd, a leading regional financial services, media, and technology company, and Moomoo Singapore, a leading digitalised brokerage in Singapore, co-organised MooFest 2024 (“MooFest 2024”), a premier investment event which took place on 6th July 2024 at Suntec Convention Centre, Singapore.

Due to rapid advances in technology and their impact on trading infrastructure, investing information, and investment decision-making, this year’s event, “Thinking Forward, Mastering the Future,” was a landmark gathering for all investors in the financial markets.

Mr. Christopher Lee, Group Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of AlphaInvest Holdings Pte. Ltd., said, “In the digital age, investors face a landscape filled with unprecedented challenges but also great opportunities. Global financial markets are increasingly interconnected, and technological advancements are reshaping the investing landscape. At the heart of all this is Information—the oil that lubricates investment decision-making. At AlphaInvest, we are committed to helping investors navigate the complexities of modern financial markets by providing investors with timely, reliable, accurate, and quality Information as well as the digital tools to glean insights, formulate strategies and implement risk management from the Information.”

This year’s event attracted more than 3,000 attendees, with a star-studded lineup of speakers and panellists including Gavin Chia (Moomoo SG), Echo Zhao (Moomoo SG), Lily Chia (Singapore Exchange), James McKeone (NASDAQ), and Hiroki Kawai (Japan Exchange Group). They shared with attendees their valuable insights on topics such as global challenges and opportunities in the digital age, innovations in market and trading infrastructure, and the impact of technology on stock exchanges.

Mr. Gavin Chia, CEO of Moomoo Singapore, remarked, “The rapid advancement of technology has revolutionised stock exchanges globally, making them more efficient, accessible, and transparent. Our focus at Moomoo Singapore is to provide our clients with seamless and secure trading and custodian services. By leveraging new technologies such as AI, we are not only enhancing the operational efficiencies of our trading infrastructure but empowering investors with real-time insights and data-driven decision-making capabilities.”

Mr. Chia revealed that, on average, investors were increasing the proportion of U.S. stocks in their portfolio to 70% even as they held 20 % of their portfolio in Singapore stocks with strong fundamentals and good valuations. Mr Chia also remarked that with the ‘higher for longer’ interest rate environment, there was good demand for money market funds, and investors were also interested in holding cryptocurrency for portfolio diversification. Chia announced that Moomoo Singapore will soon offer cryptocurrency trading on its platform, just months after receiving the Major Payment Institution (MPI) License from the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

Also read: Greta Minerals Secures Lithium and REE Assets in Western Australia

About AlphaInvest Holdings Pte. Ltd. | www.alphainvestholdings.com

A leading regional financial services, media and technology company, AlphaInvest Holdings Pte Ltd (“AlphaInvest” or “the Group”) was founded in 1999 to empower investors by providing them with trusted products and services for informed investment decision-making. Its core areas of business span investor relations, market data tools and investor education.

AlphaInvest Group operates the largest investor relations network in the region, with a customer base of about 700 public listed companies and a reach of over 300,000 people across its platforms. The Group has over 120 employees in four countries (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia).

The Group has made several strategic investments:

• Investor relations / public relations firm, Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd (www.waterbrooks.com.sg)
• Singapore’s leading social media platform for investors, InvestingNote (www.investingnote.com)

InvestingNote is the largest and most active social platform for investments in Singapore and Malaysia. It is a community-driven platform designed specifically to help investors and traders to share ideas on stocks, news and insights through social networking and a variety of useful investment tools.

ShareInvestor (www.shareinvestor.com) offers online market data tools for multiple markets through its ShareInvestor Station, ShareInvestor WebPro, and ShareInvestor Mobile products.

AlphaInvest’s digital publications include:

• Investor-One (www.investor-one.com), a website on investor education, market news, corporate developments, and data analytics
• Inve$t, an e-magazine published weekly in Singapore and Malaysia.

AlphaInvest organises financial investment seminars and conferences for investors. Its annual large-scale events INVEST Fair(www.investfair.com.sg) in Singapore and Malaysia draws thousands of participants. Other key exhibition includes the largest REIT event ie REITS Symposium (www.reitsymposium.com).

The post MooFest 2024 by Moomoo Singapore and AlphaInvest Receives Massive Turnout appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Maybank Singapore hosted approximately 160 SME guests and business leaders at the Maybank Johor-Singapore Access conference on July 8, 2024. The event aimed to prepare attendees for doing business and to provide a platform for sharing perspectives on the expected opportunities and economic benefits within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ).

Alvin Lee, Country CEO of Maybank Singapore, said: “The economies of Singapore and Malaysia are closely connected through trade, investment, tourism, and labour. With the establishment of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ), we can expect increased cross-border trade and partnerships between the two countries. This will further enhance the economic ecosystems of both countries, foster positive synergies across various sectors, and strengthen economic connectivity and cooperation.”

He added, “Maybank sees itself as powering the continued growth of the Malaysia-Singapore corridor by facilitating cross-border business services, solutions, and digital networks to support our clients’ business needs. Maybank will have a significant role to play as the Malaysia- Singapore corridor grows and as the JSSEZ becomes a closer reality.”

Other speakers and panellists at the event include:

• Dr Chua Hak Bin, Regional Co-Head, Macro Research, Maybank Investment Banking Group
• Mr Samuel Tan, Executive Director, KVG International
• Mr Vinothan Tulisinathanzan, Director, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
• Mr Ang Yuit, President, Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME)
• Mr Kong Chee Min, CEO, Centurion Corporation
• Dr Melvin Heng, Group CEO, Thomson Medical Group

The JSSEZ has strong support from both Malaysia and Singapore, as they are eager for greater economic integration, allowing freer movement of people, goods, and capital, which will create new opportunities aligning with long-term policy goals. Maybank has identified six key catalysts that will benefit the upcoming JSSEZ:

#1 Support from the Malaysian King and both Governments

The MOU for JSSEZ was signed on 11 Jan 2024 by Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and Malaysia’s Ministry of Economy. The area will possibly cover 3,505 sq km, about 3 to 4 times Singapore. Outside of Chinese investors, Singapore is the second largest foreign direct investor (FDI) in Iskandar.

#2 Greater Land Connectivity

The causeway is already the busiest border crossing in the world. The Rapid Transit System (RTS) is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026. It will integrate Immigration, Customs, and quarantine at each RTS station, making travel between the two countries seamless.

#3 Supply Chain Shifts Amidst US-China Rivalry

While China’s share of US imports has fallen significantly, US imports from ASEAN have grown. FDI into Malaysia has also grown rapidly, with many companies moving their manufacturing facilities from China to Malaysia.

#4 Lower Operating Costs & Competitive Ringgit

Malaysia offers lower operating costs for Singapore companies and enjoys a favourable exchange rate. Salaries and rentals are lower in Iskandar and suitable for factories.

#5 Easing Talent & Labour Shortage

With the RTS, Johor workers would have a shorter daily commute to Singapore.

#6 The Green Transition

Singapore aims to import 30% of its renewal energy mix by 2035. Malaysia has also lifted its renewal energy ban and will export 300 MW to Singapore.

Panel Session

Maybank’s specialist teams are dedicated to offering business advisory services as a one-stop solution for businesses operating across the Malaysia-Singapore borders. Maybank helps businesses navigate the complexities of conducting business across borders and offers competitive financial and payment solutions to meet their cross-border business needs.

Also read: Greta Minerals Secures Lithium and REE Assets in Western Australia

About Maybank Singapore

Maybank is the fourth largest financial institution group in ASEAN by assets. It has been ranked the Best Bank in Asia Pacific and Singapore by The Banker in 2023; and the number one domestic bank in Malaysia for trade finance, according to the Euromoney Trade Finance survey in 2024.

Maybank Singapore is one of the Group’s largest overseas operations and a Qualifying Full Bank in Singapore. As at 31 December 2023, Maybank’s total assets in Singapore were approximately S$80.26 billion. With strategically located banking branches and over 2,000 employees in Singapore, Maybank is well-positioned to provide highly personalised services and locally oriented solutions that will deliver more value to customers.

www.maybank2u.com.sg

The post New Horizons for SMEs in the Johor-Singapore SEZ appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

While enterprise businesses may have large technology budgets and can assemble a team of specialists, it can be different for small and microbusiness owners. They grapple with a variety of unique challenges running their business to compete in crowded marketplaces, yet this is starting to change.

Generative AI (AI) has taken significant strides over the past year and introducing new tools and strategies does not have to become a major investment or require expertise. With AI by your side, it’s use can help create a marketing strategy to not only stand out, but also help to drive increased engagement and fuel growth. With the increasing use of AI tools, Generative AI is on a path to become the next equalizer for small businesses.

Putting AI to work for content creation

AI becomes a companion in crafting both creative and easy to use content calendars. With AI tools, it can be easy to determine which themes and topics will resonate with desired audiences. From there, content can be created to be distributed across channels, establishing deeper connections with customers while boosting an online presence.

Generative AI steps in to assist in crafting content that captures attention and keeps readers engaged. It provides suggestions and enhancements to existing content and suggests professional images giving small businesses an edge in refining their messaging. And it saves time by tailoring integrated content across various channels. AI’s ability to tweak copy based on real-time feedback and analytics, can also help to fine-tune a rich content strategy delivering strong results.

Unveiling the benefits for targeted marketing

AI tools can also be used to delve deeper into competitor research. Using sophisticated algorithms and data, AI tools can swiftly gather information on competitors’ activity. And that is not all – AI can also serve up invaluable customer insights by analysing data from various sources. By discerning customer preferences, behaviours, and demographics, small businesses can more precisely pinpoint the right audience for their products and services. Once locked onto the right targets, AI helps discover the most effective channels to reach potential customers, helping to ensure marketing efforts are reaching the right audiences.

Evaluate, Adjust, and Shine

AI powered tools are not just here to make businesses look good, they excel at measuring customer performance. By tracking metrics like website engagement rates, conversion rates and customer satisfaction, AI provides insights into what is working and what needs a tweak. This allows small businesses to gauge the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and make informed decisions for improvement.

With access to this variety of insights, along with knowledge of their own business plans, businesses can take advantage of the benefits of using AI tools to streamline processes, consider new ideas and gain customer insights. Working along with human intervention, these insights can be essential to refine the outcomes. Knowing the business well can add the human evaluation element to the AI produced insights, which presents a more well-rounded view when considering opportunities for improvement.

With business owners using AI responsibly, the use of AI tools can be a significant technology enhancement for small businesses looking to go up against their competition and successfully grow their business. With these tools easily available to small business owners and entrepreneurs, AI offers the ability to both save time and money while elevating brand presence and resonating with target audiences more effectively than ever before.

For more information getting started with AI:

AI guide for web design — How to create a website with AI

AI logo design — A hands-on guide

Find out more about how GoDaddy can help your business

Also read: Armis Completes Australian Information Security Registered Assessors Program (IRAP) Assessment to Protected Level

About GoDaddy

GoDaddy helps millions of entrepreneurs around the world start, grow and expand their businesses. People turn to GoDaddy to name their idea, create a professional Web site, attract customers, sell their products and services, and accept online payments. GoDaddy’s easy-to-use tools help micro-entrepreneurs manage everything in one place, and its experts are available to provide 24/7 assistance. For more information about the company, visit www.GoDaddy.com.

The post How Artificial Intelligence Can Help Give Your Business a Boost appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

In today’s globalised economy, Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) play a crucial role in driving innovation and competitiveness in the workplace. A recent survey by foundit, a leading talent platform, highlights both progress and areas for growth in D&I practices across Singaporean organisations.

The survey uncovers notable opportunities in Singapore’s corporate environment, with a significant number of respondents claiming that their organisations do not have a diversity training program and some respondents still getting familiar with the concept of diversity hiring. However, a substantial segment of employees believe their workplace is committed to hiring diverse teams. These findings point to opportunities for Singaporean workplaces to better harness the proven benefits of diverse teams, such as enhanced innovation, improved decision-making, and stronger financial performance.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have become critical focus areas for organisations worldwide. DEI initiatives aim to create workplaces that reflect the broader society, ensure fair treatment and access to opportunities for all employees, and foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.

As businesses increasingly recognise the benefits of diverse teams, understanding the current state of DEI practices is crucial.

The survey, conducted as part of foundit’s ongoing commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive work environments, highlights an opportunity to better align organisational intentions and implemented actions regarding diversity initiatives.

While 36% of employees believe their workplace is highly or extremely committed to diversity hiring, 48% of respondents claim their organisations do not have diversity training programs in place. Additionally, 26% of respondents are not at all familiar with the concept of diversity hiring, while 52% feel their organisation is responsive or highly responsive to feedback on diversity issues.

These findings suggest a commitment to diversity in principle, but there are opportunities to improve the implementation of effective diversity initiatives.

Sekhar Garisa, CEO of foundit, commented on the findings: “Our survey reveals that Singapore is at a crucial juncture in its journey towards truly inclusive workplaces. It’s encouraging to see that over a third of organisations are highly committed to diversity hiring, laying down a strong foundation for progress. However, there is a clear opportunity for growth, particularly in implementing effective training programs and raising awareness about diversity concepts.

The fact that 52% of respondents feel their organisations are responsive to diversity feedback is a positive sign. Nevertheless, with 48% of companies yet to establish diversity training programs, there is a great opportunity to enhance their diversity efforts. Singaporean businesses that seize this opportunity to implement comprehensive DEI strategies will not only create more inclusive environments but also gain a competitive edge in innovation and attracting talent.”

Key findings from the survey include:

• Diversity Awareness and Definition: 26% of respondents are not at all familiar with the concept of diversity hiring. Among those familiar with the concept, 56% define workplace diversity comprehensively. This includes actively seeking diverse individuals, creating an inclusive environment, embracing a diversity mindset, and complying with anti-discrimination laws.
• Organisational Commitment: 36% of respondents believe their workplace is highly or extremely committed to hiring a diverse team, while 20% perceive a moderate commitment, and 10% report no commitment at all.
• Training Needs and Effectiveness: 48% of respondents state that their organisations do not have diversity trainingprograms. Among those that do offer training, 36% claim they have mandatory programs, while 16% state they were offered non-mandatory options. Regarding effectiveness, 21% reported significant awareness gains from training, while 30% saw no increase in awareness.
• Recruitment Practices: Respondents report that organisations are adopting various initiatives to ensure equal opportunities. These include conducting interviews in diversity-friendly spaces (16%), inviting applications from diverse communities (15%), providing anti-bias training (14%), and consistently committing to diversity hiring goals (13%).
• Provisions for Applicants with Disabilities: Respondents state that organisations offer specific accommodations for persons with disabilities, such as accessible online application processes (17%), accessible interview venues (16%), and additional time allowances for assessments if needed (16%).
• Work-Life Balance: 36% of respondents believe their organisations have policies in place to support work-life balance, particularly for women with caregiving responsibilities, offering them flexible work hours and remote work options.
• Employee Resource Groups: 53% of respondents are aware of employee resource groups focused on diversity and inclusion within their organisations, with 41% finding these groups highly or extremely valuable.
• Peer Support and Networking: 20% of respondents state that their organisations frequently facilitate peer support and networking opportunities for diverse groups, 27% say they sometimes do so, and 22% report that their organisations rarely or never provide these opportunities.
• Responsiveness to Feedback: 52% of respondents perceive that their organisations are responsive or highly responsiveto feedback on diversity issues, highlighting a positive trend in organisational communication and action on diversity-related concerns.

“These findings paint a nuanced picture of diversity and inclusion in Singapore’s corporate landscape,” Garisa added. “While we see promising signs of commitment and awareness from organisations, the real opportunity for organisations is to take the next step to implement these initiatives. At foundit, we’re committed to supporting organisations in this journey, helping them harness the full potential of diverse teams to drive innovation and success in Singapore’s dynamic business environment.”

The survey was conducted as part of TRIUMPH, Asia’s leading virtual career fair for diversity, further demonstrating foundit’s commitment to promoting inclusive workplaces.

As organisations navigate the evolving landscape of workplace diversity, this survey serves as a crucial benchmark, offering insights into current practices and highlighting areas for future focus and improvement. By addressing these gaps, companies can create more inclusive and successful workplaces.

Also read: Armis Completes Australian Information Security Registered Assessors Program (IRAP) Assessment to Protected Level

About foundit – APAC & Middle East

foundit, formerly Monster (APAC & ME) is a leading talent platform offering comprehensive employment solutions to recruiters and job seekers across APAC & ME. In addition to a powerful AI-powered job search, foundit offers e-learning, assessments, and services related to resume creation, interview preparation, and professional networking. Since its inception, the company has assisted over 90 million job seekers across 18 countries in upskilling and connecting them with the right job opportunities. foundit is now also the Official Talent Partner of the Badminton World Federation across 20 key world tour events.  

Over the last two decades, the company has been a leader in the world of recruitment solutions and has recently launched a cutting-edge solution to give recruiters access to passive candidates in addition to active ones. With the use of advanced technology, foundit is seeking to efficiently bridge the talent gap across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies.

Today, foundit is committed to enabling and connecting the right talent with the right opportunities by harnessing the power of deep tech to sharpen hyper-personalised job searches and offer precision hiring.

To learn more about, foundit in APAC & Gulf, visit: www.foundit.sg |  www.foundit.my | www.foundit.in | www.founditgulf.com | www.foundit.my | www.foundit.com.ph | www.foundit.com.hk | www.foundit.id

The post foundit Survey: 52% of Singaporean organisations show responsiveness to diversity issues, highlighting key growth opportunities appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

The campaign features four striking prints, each portraying a celebrated footballer whose iconic jersey is seamlessly blended with the fur texture of an endangered species linked to their nickname. The Ethiopian ibex symbolizes the Argentine national team’s top star, known as the G.O.A.T., with only 500 individuals left in the wild. The Bengal tiger represents Colombia’s historic top scorer, highlighting the species’ current presence in just 5% of its historical range. The panther is associated with Costa Rica’s legendary goalkeeper, with an estimated population of 14,000 to 16,000. Lastly, the arctic fox represents the Italian-Peruvian forward of the Peruvian national team, with only about 450 individuals remaining in Norway, Sweden, and Finland as of 2022. This visual artistry not only underscores the connection between athletes and animals but also amplifies the urgency of protecting these species before it’s too late.

Alejandra María Muñoz Rivera, Executive Director at Fundación Con Vida, expresses, “‘Retiring Species’ is a campaign that primarily aims to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect some of the most vulnerable species. It is an honor to collaborate with Findasense on an initiative that has the power to generate such a significant impact.”

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Esteban Pineda, CEO of Findasense Americas, adds, “Our mission has always been to create brand experiences that transcend and generate positive change. With ‘Retiring Species’, we have taken this mission to the next level, combining creativity and purpose to inspire greater awareness and action in the protection of our wildlife.”

“Retiring Species” is crafted to captivate public attention, fostering an emotional and visual connection that resonates deeply with audiences. Through this campaign, Findasense and Fundación Con Vida aspire not only to inspire immediate action but also to leave a lasting legacy in the conservation of endangered species.

About Findasense

Findasense, a Teleperformance Group company, specializes in 360-degree creative solutions for Brand Experience. They excel in designing and executing high-impact marketing and communication strategies based on deep consumer insights. Serving clients like Grupo Bimbo, Coca-Cola, Liberty, and more, Findasense operates across 30+ markets globally, with offices in Europe, North America, Andean, Central America, and South America regions.

About Fundación Con Vida

Fundación Con Vida is a dedicated environmental and social organization focused on biodiversity management and sustainability since 1997. They are committed to generating social value through the sustainable use of natural resources, emphasizing life as the highest societal value.

The post “Retiring Species” Campaign by Findasense and Fundación Con Vida: Merging Soccer and Wildlife Conservation appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

One of the standout features is the new Seoulite print, capturing the city’s electric energy, alongside the Olive colorway, inspired by Seoul’s mountainous landscape. The collection also introduces the 19 Degree Frame travel collection and the premium Turin collection, along with updates to the iconic Voyageur, 19 Degree Aluminum, and TUMI Sport collections.

New Additions to Iconic Collections

The 19 Degree Frame collection expands TUMI’s travel offerings, featuring integrated frame opening/closure latches, retractable handles, and signature smooth, quiet wheels. The interiors are equipped with tie-down straps and mesh zip pockets, providing optimal organization. Available in Black Texture and Pearl Grey Texture, this collection caters to diverse travel needs with sizes ranging from carry-on to extended packing cases.

The all-new premium Turin collection pushes the boundaries of performance luxury. Crafted from Italian leather with elevated metal accents, Turin offers sleek silhouettes designed for the dynamic lifestyle. The collection includes backpacks, briefcases, slings, totes, and small leather goods, all in a sophisticated black colorway.

Also Read: Multipl Secures $1.5M Funding to Revolutionize Personal Finance with ‘Spendvesting’

Relaunched Voyageur Collection

TUMI’s iconic Voyageur collection is relaunched in luxurious, smooth leather, featuring the TUMI “T” logo and meticulous craftsmanship with elevated hardware details. This collection includes backpacks, totes, shoulder bags, and crossbodies, with the addition of an all-new train case. Color options include classic black with light gold or gunmetal hardware and the dynamic seasonal Pewter Metallic with gunmetal hardware.

Expansion into Sports Gear

TUMI continues its expansion into the world of sports with new offerings for racquet sports and cycling enthusiasts. The racquet sports range includes a Pickleball Bag, Tennis Racquet Bag, and Tennis Backpack, each with magnetic shoulder straps for versatile wear. For cyclists, TUMI introduces durable styles made from water-resistant materials with reflective accents, including the Tour Biking Backpack, Alliance Biking Backpack, Peyton Sling, and Signal Sling. Additionally, the spacious Yoga Sling is designed to hold a 26-inch mat and accessories.

Shop the Collection

The new Fall collections are available at TUMI stores and TUMI.sg worldwide. Follow @TUMITravel to explore how TUMI merges design and performance in its products.

About TUMI

Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate, and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, TUMI empowers journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions. Discover more at TUMI.com and follow TUMI on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

The post TUMI Unveils Fall 2024 Collection: Innovation Meets Tradition in New Travel and Lifestyle Offerings appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

In the captivating feature film, Roger’s journey includes driving his daughter to a remote campsite, picking up his wife from the city for a date, and visiting his parents living in a distant town. His curious neighbor asks, “What’s your secret?” Roger confidently replies, “Shell FuelSave 95,” with a knowing wink.

The film’s score, reminiscent of adventure classics like Indiana Jones, coupled with Shell’s distinctive sonic branding, enhances the adventurous spirit of the campaign. Created by GrowthOps Asia, Shell’s lead creative agency, the campaign encompasses a 54-second feature film and various versions broadcast nationwide on TV, cinema, outdoor media, radio, social media, and digital platforms.

“Last year, we introduced our New + Improved Shell FuelSave 95, which delivers better fuel economy by up to 15KM longer per tank*,” said Seow Lee Ming, GM of Shell Mobility Malaysia. “This new campaign aims to go beyond our product benefits and connect with Malaysians by showcasing how Shell FuelSave 95 is part of their daily lives.”

Also Read: Multipl Secures $1.5M Funding to Revolutionize Personal Finance with ‘Spendvesting’

As the campaign unfolds, consumers will dive deeper into this cinematic universe, learning more about the characters and the benefits of Shell FuelSave 95. Backed by over five years of research from more than 120 Shell Fuels Scientists globally, the 15KM fuel economy benefit extends to both cars and motorcycles*.

“Our inspiration came from the idea that ‘every day can be an adventure,’ or ‘sebagai pekerja, kita hari hari jadi pengembara,’” said Adzam Bahrin, Regional Creative Director at GrowthOps. “We wanted to create a campaign that resonates with Malaysians and celebrates this idea.”

Running from July 1 until 2025, the campaign also offers Malaysians a chance to instantly redeem one of 4 million prizes when they spend over RM50 at the pump with Shell FuelSave 95 or Shell V-Power 97, or over RM12 at Shell Select (excluding tobacco and car care products) between July 1 and September 30.

About Shell

We are a global group of energy and petrochemicals companies with an average of 86,000 employees in more than 70 countries. We use advanced technologies and take an innovative approach to help build a sustainable energy future.

About GrowthOps Asia

GrowthOps Asia is a marketing transformation agency known for delivering unforgettable digital experiences. Across Asia, we’ve been growing brands, businesses and bottom lines for over 15 years. We are trusted by enterprises and high-growth innovators alike for our deep domain experience, delivering on multi-year projects for regional Financial Services, Telecommunications, Transportation, eCommerce, Energy and more.

The post Shell and GrowthOps Asia Launch “Kembara Lebih Jauh” Campaign Featuring Remy Ishak appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

This event, in honor of World Mental Health Day by the World Health Organization, aims to promote a healthy mind for a healthy life by encouraging participants to engage in 16 consecutive hours of face-to-face interactions without the use of mobile devices or screen time. The Offline 16 event promises a series of exciting activities, including fitness challenges, a games zone, a reading alcove, a therapy sanctuary, health checks, yoga sessions, and much more. Notably, the event will feature stand-up comedy by popular comedian Douglas Lim and a badminton session with Malaysia’s champion and VitaHealth’s ambassador Pearly Tan.

Dr. KS Beh, Chief Executive Officer of VitaHealth (Malaysia and Singapore), shared, “As a global nutrition provider for more than 70 years, our Group firmly believes that the true quality of life stems from a harmonious balance between physical health and mental wellness. Inspired by these insights, we initiated Offline 16, an empowering event that will raise awareness of the importance of unplugging from digital devices. Coinciding with the 77th anniversary of VitaHealth, this ESG endeavor reinforces our commitment to holistic well-being.”

Also Read: Multipl Secures $1.5M Funding to Revolutionize Personal Finance with ‘Spendvesting’

By partnering with Tropicana, this joint effort is set to offer sensory, personalized, and impactful experiences that allow participants to unplug, unwind, and recharge. Dr. Beh added, “We are happy to share that Offline 16 is setting a new record in the Malaysia Book of Records as the most accumulated offline hours in a day.”

Ong Chou Wen, Chief Executive Officer of Tropicana, stated, “Since 1979, creating a safe, sustainable, and thriving community has been at the heart of everything we do. We respect the well-being of our people and believe mental health should be valued, promoted, and protected. Aligned with our mantra to Redefine the Art of Living, we believe it is a universal human right to have a healthy mind. We are thankful to the VitaHealth team and the participating partners for joining us on this meaningful ESG journey.”

Danny Hoh, General Manager of Marketing and Customer Growth at Watsons Malaysia, also expressed support, saying, “We are proud to be one of the participating partners as we find Offline 16 offers a truly unique experience to its participants. By encouraging everyone to participate, we can make a positive impact together.”

Other esteemed partners include The Malaysia Book of Records, Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA), Watsons, Tropicana Golf & Country Resort, Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TARUMT), Celebrity Fitness, Yonex, Ogawa, Tai Thong Moon Cakes, Thai Odyssey, Big Bad Wolf Books, Purity Sanctuary, Dr. Stretch, Lululemon, Kafen, Urban Solution Visioncare, Sunrise, and Ecobasis.

UNPLUG TO CHARGE UP AT OFFLINE 16

Participants are invited to step into a world of engaging activities designed to immerse them in both relaxed and fun experiences, without the distraction of mobile devices or screen time. Over the course of 16 hours, participants can enjoy arcade games, board games, fitness activities, yoga, sound baths, art therapy, reading, massages, stand-up comedy, and live band performances. This initiative promotes the ideology of “disconnect to reconnect,” fostering meaningful connections and pure enjoyment.

For more information, visit www.vitahealth.com.my/offline16 or email enquiries@vitahealth.com.my.

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As the Indian market witnesses a surge in mutual fund investments primarily for long-term wealth creation, Multipl introduces a unique twist by integrating investing with lifestyle spending. This novel concept, Spendvesting, seamlessly blends investment with spending, setting a new benchmark in financial management. Multipl enables consumers to regularly invest small amounts in mutual funds for future expenditures, rewarding their loyalty through partnerships with top brands. This approach not only makes lifestyle spending more beneficial but also adds an element of fun.

Paddy Raghavan, Co-Founder of Multipl, expressed his enthusiasm: “The support from Blume and MIXI Japan will help us enhance the product experience and bring more awareness to the Spendvesting category that we are creating. This round of funding empowers us to drive forward our mission of helping Indians live an aspirational life in a financially prudent manner.”

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Ashish Fafadia, partner at Blume Ventures, shared his excitement: “We are excited about the opportunity to support Multipl’s innovative approach to personal finance. Spend-based investing represents a significant evolution in how individuals can manage and grow their savings. Our continued investment reflects our confidence in Multipl’s potential to create lasting value for its users.”

Tomoharu Urabe, Principal Partner at MIXI Global Investments, Inc., added, “Multipl does have a great value proposition rewarding wise consumers with dual benefits from investment and discounts. The app encourages you to go for your aspirational spending and at the same time helps you maintain a healthy habit of saving. We are excited to be a part in this journey of building a personal finance solution for the cycle of saving, investing and spending.”

Since its inception in 2020, Multipl has achieved remarkable milestones, including over 500,000 downloads, forging over 100 valuable brand partnerships, and facilitating goals worth over ₹1000 crores. The platform continues to innovate with features like ‘Open Goals,’ allowing users to invest in unforeseen future expenses through brand partnerships, and the ‘Window Shopper’ widget, which enhances savings by integrating financial planning options at the point of purchase across merchant websites and apps.

About Multipl

Founded in 2020 by Paddy Raghavan, Jags Raghavan, and Vikas Jain, Multipl stands as a pioneer in the Spendvesting space, combining the gratification of spending with investment benefits. The platform offers short-term recurring investments in mutual funds advised by SEBI-registered in-house experts, complemented by contributions from partner brands, resulting in a dual-benefit model that delivers unmatched value to its customers.

The post Multipl Secures $1.5M Funding to Revolutionize Personal Finance with ‘Spendvesting’ appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

Out of over 350 applicants, 34 pioneering greentechs have been shortlisted, including 10 from Malaysia. These selected companies will participate in a rigorous program designed to fast-track the development of sustainable technology solutions.

About the GreenTech Accelerator

Helmed by UOB’s innovation accelerator, UOB FinLab, the GreenTech Accelerator is a testament to UOB’s commitment to sustainability across ASEAN. The program provides unparalleled access to masterclasses, mentoring from over 30 world-class experts across three countries, and UOB FinLab’s expansive network of 25,000 industry leaders, including businesses, governments, SMEs, and tech suppliers.

This year’s program also offers up to SGD100,000 for greentechs to pilot impactful and deployable solutions. Throughout the six months, participants will address real-world sustainability issues from more than 50 challenge statements contributed by 27 partners, including UOB and external collaborators such as Encompass and Great Cosmo Industries.

Building on the success of its inaugural run in 2022, which led to the establishment of eight pilots and over 160 business connections, the 2024 edition expands its reach to Malaysia and Thailand, aiming to make a significant impact on sustainability.

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Challenge Statements

UOB FinLab has collaborated with corporate partners to identify key sustainability challenges. Selected greentechs will work on developing innovative solutions to tackle these issues in areas such as Circular Economy and Waste Management, Energy Efficiency, Food and Agriculture, Sustainable Cities and Urban Planning, and Carbon Management and Reporting.

Meet the Shortlisted Greentechs

The 34 greentechs participating this year span Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, categorized based on the challenge statements they address. Here are some of the Malaysian greentechs:

• Bina-Biox Biomaterials: Provides mycelium-based packaging as an eco-friendly alternative to polystyrene, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing waste.
• Entomal Biotech: Offers sustainable waste management solutions using black soldier flies to convert organic waste into high-protein feed and fertilizers.
• Intllife: Develops smart home software to enhance energy efficiency and reduce management costs.
• iVis Technologies: Identifies wastages and inefficient equipment usage through a proprietary cloud-based energy management platform.
• Letrik Link Sdn Bhd / CUCUK: Promotes the adoption of EVs and transforms heritage sites into EV charging locations to reduce noise and air pollution in Malaysia.
• Materials In Works: Upcycles paper liner waste from the label industry to combat climate change.
• MEC Clearwaste: Converts waste streams into reusable and recyclable by-products.
• Qarbotech: Produces photosynthesis enhancers and innovative solutions for food security challenges and climate change.
• Retragreen: Provides services for energy data collection, management, and certification.
• Wimera Systems Sdn Bhd: Offers technology and consulting for businesses to optimize electricity consumption.

For more information about the program, challenge statements, and past participants, visit UOB FinLab’s website.

The post UOB FinLab Launches GreenTech Accelerator 2024 to Propel Sustainability Solutions Across ASEAN appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

• PT TransNusa Aviation Mandiri to be the first foreign airline to kickstart jet aircraft operations for the Jakarta-Subang international route from Subang Airport in Malaysia
• TransNusa to operate daily scheduled international flight from Jakarta to Subang, starting August 1, 2024
• The airline will be utilising its A320 narrow-body airliner for the daily scheduled flight

TransNusa made headlines in Indonesia and South East Asia when the airline with just two airbus A320 and one Comac ARJ21-700 introduced its first international route from Jakarta to Kuala Lumpur on April 14, 2023.

14 months later, the airline has been handpicked as one of the two foreign airlines that has received approval to start flights from the Sultan Abdul Aziz Airport, popularly known as Subang Airport in Malaysia.

The Subang Airport is coveted by many foreign airlines due to its proximity to the central business district in Kuala Lumpur mainly due its location. While it takes passengers from Kuala Lumpur and the surrounding central business district areas an average of 30 minutes to access Subang Airport, it takes more than an hour to an hour and a half to access the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). As such, passenger generally prefer to travel through Subang Airport rather than KLIA. 

Subang Airport, which was officially opened on August 30, 1965, had the longest runway in Southeast Asia at that time. However, the airport operations were moved to the current international airport, the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in 1998.

“The resumption of jet operations at the Subang Airport come 26 years after all narrowbody aircraft operations were moved and for TransNusa to be handpicked to start the Kuala Lumpur – Jakarta route and create history with the Malaysian Aviation team is an honour for us, more so because we are only 20 months old,” Said Datuk Bernard, who is the Group Chief Executive Officer of TransNusa.

“I am also thankful for the opportunity to be the first foreign airline to start scheduled jet aircraft operations for an international route from Subang airport. As off today, we will be the only airline offering scheduled international flights from Terminal 3, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to Subang Airport,” said Datuk Bernard explained.

At the initial stage, TransNusa will be operating one daily scheduled flight from Terminal 3, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to Subang Airport. The flight, 8B 699, will depart Jakarta at 04.10pm and arrive at the Subang Airport at 07.00pm while TransNusa flight, 8B 698, will depart Subang Airport at 07.30pm and arrive in Jakarta at 08.30pm. TransNusa will be utilizing its A320 narrow-body airliner, which has 174 seats, to cater for the two-hour scheduled flight, beginning August 1.

“We will be starting sale of tickets from today,” said Datuk Bernard, adding that TransNusa ticket for this route will be priced from IDR 999,000.

On the successful approval of TransNusa’s route permit for the Jakarta-Subang international route, Datuk Bernard said, “TransNusa, known worldwide for its unique business proposition as a Premium Service Carrier, has always operated with passengers’ comfort and safety in mind. As such, this new opportunity is a testament to our commitment towards enhancing services in the aviation industry.”

“As an Indonesian airline that only has been operating for 20 months, we are proud to launch a series of new daily scheduled flight to the Subang Airport,” He added.

On whether there will be any changes to TransNusa’s scheduled flights from Jakarta to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Datuk said that TransNusa would still continue to operate three scheduled daily flights to KLIA and four scheduled flights weekly to Johor Bharu.

TransNusa, which had to close it business operation in September 2020 due to impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the aviation industry, started operations again after injection of new shareholders and management team in October 2022.

Within 6 months, the airline introduced its first international route between Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur and celebrated its first-year anniversary for this route on April 14, this year.

“When we re-launched TransNusa in October 2022, we started from the bottom again. We had no aircraft or roadmap to follow. Everything was new because the pandemic had broken the aviation business operations boundaries. We re-created and customised our business operations and strategy model of being the first Premium Service Carrier based on the post-pandemic scenario,” Datuk Bernard explained.

“As such, for us, being handpicked by the Malaysian Aviation Commission as the only airline to operate from the Subang Airport to offer daily scheduled flight from Jakarta is another milestone for us,” Datuk Bernard stressed.

After launching its first international route between Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur, TransNusa launched three more new international routes by the end of last year. TransNusa’s aggressive international growth strategy combined with its domestic business operations approach has enabled the airline to be the fastest growing airline in South East Asia.

In 2024, the airline does not only celebrate the first year of its operations in Kuala Lumpur but it will also be celebrating first year of operations in three other international locations that is Johor, Malaysia, Singapore and Guangzhou, China.

Since its re-launch, TransNusa became the first in the world to commission a Comac ARJ21-700. TransNusa became the second airline in Indonesia to launch a Jakarta-Guangzhou route on November 16, last year.

On the domestic front, TransNusa, in keeping with its new player, new rules character, became the first in the world to offer a direct flight between two world legendary destinations, which is Bali and Manado. This domestic route was launched in April, this year.

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About TransNusa

TransNusa Airline, is a Premium Service Carrier. After the take-over, in February 2024, the airline rebranded itself from being a Low-Cost Carrier to a Premium Service Carrier in line with its upgraded aircrafts that offers better comfort as well as based on the flexibility and quality of the services offered. TransNusa, which received its AOC certification on 9th September 2022, launch its first three A320 operations on 6th October, 14th October and 12th December, 2022. The airline, which became the first outside of China to utilise Comac, received its first ARJ21 on 22nd December, 2022.  In 2023, TransNusa introduced a new business model making it the first Premium Service Carrier in the Asia Pacific region. TransNusa introduced its first international flight on 14th April, 2023. The airline is currently based in Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The airline currently flies to Yogyakarta and Bali. On the international front, TransNusa flies to Singapore, Guangzhou, Kuala Lumpur and Johor. The airline became the second Indonesian airline to fly to China and the first Indonesian airline to launch a Premium Service Carrier business model.Passengers can book their flights on the TransNusa website (www.transnusa.co.id), through authorized travel agents in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia, or by contacting the airline’s customer service centre at, +62216310888. For the Singaporean market, passengers can contact TransNusa’s General Sales Agent, Chariot Travels Pte Ltd, at +65 86602719 while for the Malaysian market, passengers can contact MKM Ticketing Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd at +60378312581.

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The Nongsa-Changi cable has been designed to meet unprecedented demand for connectivity and resilience between Singapore and Batam as data traffic moving between these two prime locations for data center development continues to grow exponentially.

The project highlights the strategic collaboration between BW Digital and Telin, aiming to leverage their combined expertise to significantly enhance connectivity and drive digital economic growth in the region.

The 50km Nongsa-Changi cable system will comprise a minimum of 24 fiber pairs and provide robust and reliable communication links, crucial for supporting the data-intensive needs of digital services, DC-to-DC connectivity and high-density AI applications.

BW Digital and Telin plan to construct and deploy the submarine cable system with a strong focus on both technical excellence and environmental sustainability. The new system will interconnect data centers in Batam and Singapore, creating a seamless and efficient data transfer corridor.

The cable is projected to be Ready For Service (RFS) in Q4 2025, marking a significant milestone in regional digital infrastructure development.

“BW Digital is pleased to expand its strategic alliance with Telin to deliver the first cable to directly link Singapore and Batam’s Nongsa Digital Park”, said Ludovic Hutier, Chief Executive Officer of BW Digital.

“The Nongsa-Changi cable represents a key component of the digital ecosystem we are building in NDP. With a landing at the doorstep of the data center campus, it will provide DC operators with fully diverse and secured connectivity, and enable them to further address the spillover demand from Singapore.”

“We are proud to continue our successful partnership with BW Digital, as we work together to develop Indonesia’s digital industry at Nongsa Digital Park and establish the Hawaiki Nui 1 submarine cable system. Extending our collaboration with BW Digital to connect Indonesia and Singapore through the ICE Cable System I Leg 2 further enhances DC to DC connectivity, reinforcing Telin’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions for our customers,” remarked Budi Satria Dharma Purba, Chief Executive Officer of Telin.

Also read: Armis Completes Australian Information Security Registered Assessors Program (IRAP) Assessment to Protected Level

About TELIN

Established in 2007, Telin provides premium international carrier voice, data services, and tailored business solutions for wholesale, enterprise, digital, and retail customers. Telin operates in multiple countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, Malaysia, Taiwan, the United States, Timor Leste, the United Arab Emirates, and Myanmar, with representatives in the United Kingdom, the Philippines, India, Vietnam and Canada.

Telin’s infrastructure spans 250,140 kilometers of cable system length, incorporating 27 Global Submarine Cable Systems, and operates 58 Points of Presence in 26 Countries, 10 global offices, 5 global countries Sales Representative, and over 19 Tier II to Tier IV Data Centers in key locations, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Timor Leste, and Indonesia.

For more information about Telin, visit www.telin.net

About BW Digital

BW Digital is a subsidiary of BW Group, a global energy and maritime group controlling 7 listed companies with a combined market capitalisation of around US$11 billion.

Headquartered in Singapore, BW Digital develops, builds and operates digital infrastructures in the Asia-Pacific region. Our vision is to create a sustainable digital ecosystem combining connectivity, data storage and value-added services for cloud and AI workloads.

Privately-owned and carrier-neutral, BW Digital is the owner and developer of the Hawaiki and Hawaiki Nui submarine cables, and the NDP-01 data centre located in Batam, Indonesia.

For more information, please visit www.bw-digital.com

The post Telin and BW Digital to enhance DC-to-DC connectivity with new Indonesia – Singapore cable appeared first on Marketing In Asia.

The study highlights that one in three Malaysians have never used AI at work, while another 10 percent have only used AI tools once. This disparity is especially pronounced among different generations. Notably, 42 percent of Gen Xers and 73 percent of Baby Boomers have never used AI in their work, in stark contrast to 36 percent of Gen Zers and 24 percent of Millennials who use AI daily or frequently.

Fahad Naeem, Country Director at Randstad Malaysia, stated, “The annual employer brand research guides employers with year-on-year analysis, as well as talent attitudes and perceptions on important topics like skill development and equity. AI technology will continue to change skill needs and workforce structures, and investing in talent development will help organisations hire skilled talent and attract more people to work in Malaysia.”

Moreover, the research found that 81 percent of Malaysians are aware of the impact AI will have on their jobs. Despite nearly half of Gen Xers not having any exposure to AI at work, 71 percent believe that the technology will impact their careers, aligning closely with the 74 percent of Baby Boomers and 73 percent of Millennials who share this belief.

Encouragingly, workforce attitudes towards AI’s impact at work are largely positive, with 45 percent of respondents indicating that it will increase their job satisfaction. Those already using AI and higher-educated individuals are particularly optimistic about AI boosting their job satisfaction.

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Naeem added, “The emergence of AI has been exciting, but it’s normal for employees to wonder how it will impact their careers. Early exposure to new technologies can boost their career outlook while nurturing skills development in the organisation. With AI integration, employers should step up to support their employees’ skills growth due to the rapid and extensive progress in AI.”

In addition to AI insights, the study also shed light on the priorities and concerns of Malaysian job seekers. Attractive salaries and benefits emerged as the top priority, with 35 percent of respondents indicating that their employers did not provide any financial support amid rising costs and inflation. Furthermore, 48 percent of job switchers cited poor work-life balance as the primary reason for leaving their jobs, followed by low salaries and rising living costs.

Naeem commented, “The cost of living has increased significantly over the past two years, which has resulted in many Malaysians seeking higher-paying jobs. This is not surprising given that living expenses have caught up with salaries. Employees who are stressed about their personal finances are also more likely to lose focus at work. At the same time, some in-demand talent are hesitant to switch jobs due to the global economic climate. It is hence critical for organisations looking to recruit talent to understand not just how much candidates expect, but also new market salary averages offered by their competitors.”

When asked about their employers’ support in managing the rising cost of living, 35 percent of respondents reported receiving no financial assistance, while 34 percent said their pay raise helped cover some costs, and only 10 percent received one-time financial support from their employers.

For more detailed insights, visit Randstad Malaysia’s official website.

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