Category: Local Business

SMI Vantage Appoints F&B Innovator Jocelyn Chng to the Advisory Board Committee

SMI Vantage Limited, an investment and management company listed on the mainboard of the SGX, today announced it has appointed Ms. Jocelyn Chng as a member of the Advisory Board Committee, effective 1 January 2023.

Ms Chng is the Group CEO of JR Group Holdings, a one-stop solutions provider for the F&B industry with capabilities in food manufacturing, automated cafes, and corporate F&B management. Over the years, Ms Chng has won numerous awards, including ASME’s Women Entrepreneur of the Year 2001, the Montblanc Businesswoman Award in 2003 and was selected by EY to participate in its 2018 Entrepreneurial Winning Women Asia-Pacific Program. Under Chng’s leadership, JR Group opened the world’s first Vendcafe serving hot meals in Singapore. Chef-in- Box Vendcafe is an unmanned and automated all-vending machine cafe.

Having been personally involved with developing multiple companies and platforms particularly in the F&B space, Ms Chng has a deep understanding of what it takes to scale businesses to the next level. “I am delighted to welcome Jocelyn to our Advisory Board. She brings a wealth of experience in the F&B space, having launched many highly successful ventures and growing JR Group Holdings to where it is today. As our Company enters the Robochef business, her expertise and experience will be highly relevant and extremely helpful in helping us grow this business and helping the company look at other related opportunities.” said Mark Bedingham, President and Chief Executive Officer.

In reply, Ms Chng said, “I am honoured to be appointed to the Advisory Board of SMI Vantage and am excited to learn more about SMI Vantage’s exciting projects. F&B is in the midst of transformation from being a labour-intensive industry, to one that leverages on technology and automation for higher productivity and return on investment. SMI Vantage’s use of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in the Robochef concept is a good example of this trend in the F&B industry. I look forward to working closely with Mark, the Board, and the rest of the leadership team to capitalise on the many opportunities ahead and usher in SMI Vantage’s next chapter of growth and success.”

SMI would also like to thank Kevin Shao for his valuable contributions and advice to the Company during his time with us at SMI.

About SMI Vantage

SMI Vantage Limited is an investment and management company focused on capitalising on strong trends in the new economy including technology-based SaaS services and other high- tech platforms. Listed on the Main Board of the Singapore Stock Exchange, SMI Vantage Limited has a highly capable and experienced management team with a proven track record in building strong business partnerships and alliances. https://www.smivantage.com/

For media queries, please reach out to:
Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd
Wayne Koo – wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg +65 9338-8166
Derek Yeo – derek@waterbrooks.com.sg +65 9791-4707

Proud Investor Relations partner:
https://www.waterbrooks.com.sg/ and https://www.shareinvestorholdings.com/

SMI Vantage Appoints Well-Known Business Personality: CSR, ESG and Organisational Development Expert Leong Lai Yee to the Board

SMI Vantage Limited, an investment and management company listed on the mainboard of the SGX, today announced it has appointed Ms. Leong Lai Yee, Edna as an Independent and Non-Executive Director to the Board, effective 1 January 2023. She replaces Wee Sung Leng who is stepping down having served over nine years on the SMI Board, as part of the Board renewal process.

Ms Leong is currently the Deputy Director and Head, Communications, Partnerships & Fund Development of RSVP Singapore The Organisation of Senior Volunteers. RSVP is an Institution of Public Character and the National Centre of Excellence for Senior Volunteerism under the patronage of Mdm Halimah Yacob, President of the Republic of Singapore.

Ms Leong’s extensive experience in marketing, investment, banking and consulting includes stints in some of the world’s largest financial institutions. Following her passion for a more equitable and caring society, she has in recent years, been more involved in heading non-for-profit NGOs (non-governmental organisations) and social enterprises.

Commenting on Ms Leong’s appointment, Mark Bedingham, President and Chief Executive Office said, “I am delighted to welcome Edna to our Board at the start of this new year. Besides her proven entrepreneurial talent, she brings with her valuable and deep experience in the areas of corporate social responsibility, corporate governance and organisational development. She has worked tirelessly over the years towards the goal of a more equitable and caring society and will help SMI develop a pathway to a more inclusive approach to its corporate responsibilities and a fresh approach to ESG related matters.”

Ms Leong replied, “I am excited to be appointed to the Board of SMI Vantage and look forward to assisting SMI Vantage with its many new projects and businesses and being part of the company’s next chapter in its business journey I would like to see the Company be a responsible and strong corporate citizen that is able to give back to society. Being personally involved with various social enterprises over the years, I am passionate about bringing more “heart” to all we do. I will work closely with Mark, the Board, and the rest of the leadership team to capitalise on the many opportunities ahead and usher in SMI Vantage’s next chapter of growth and success.”

The Company would also like to take this opportunity to thank Wee Sung Leng for his valuable contribution and advice to the Board during his extensive service with SMI.

About SMI Vantage

SMI Vantage Limited is an investment and management company focused on capitalising on strong trends in the new economy including technology-based SaaS services and other high-tech platforms. Listed on the Main Board of the Singapore Stock Exchange, SMI Vantage Limited has a highly capable and experienced management team with a proven track record in building strong business partnerships and alliances. https://www.smivantage.com/

For media queries, please reach out to:
Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd
Wayne Koo – wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg +65 9338-8166
Derek Yeo – derek@waterbrooks.com.sg +65 9791-4707

Proud Investor Relations partner:
https://www.waterbrooks.com.sg/ and https://www.shareinvestorholdings.com/

‘Switching On the SUN’ – Samaiden Officially Turns on First Power Generation Facility at Sunway Nexis

Samaiden Group Berhad (Bursa: SAMAIDEN, 0223), a clean energy solution specialist principally involved in engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and power, is pleased to announce that the Group’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Samaiden Capital Management Sdn. Bhd.’s first solar investment project at Sunway Nexis has commenced operation on 23 December 2022.

Samaiden will operate and maintain the rooftop solar PV system with an installed capacity of 531 kilowatt-peak (kWp) for a duration of 20 years. Based on the generation of 12.5 million kilowatt hour (kWh) over the 20-year period, this can reduce approximately 8,400 tonnes of carbon emissions.

Group Managing Director of Samaiden, Ir. Chow Pui Hee said, “As part of the diversification plan for our Group, we are delighted to see the completion of this first investment project, in which the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) was signed with Perbadanan Pengurusan Sunway Nexis (Sunway Nexis Management Corporation) back in December 2021.”

“This is a remarkable milestone for us as this facility will contribute positively to our revenue and cash flow on a recurring basis for 20 years.”

Sunway Nexis Management Corporation Chairman, Mr. Teo Poh Heng said, “We must focus on the future of our planet and emphasize sustainability of renewable energy (RE) and Sunway Nexis is happy to partner with Samaiden as the solar PV investor as this will certainly help to raise awareness of RE and its benefits to the owners and tenants of the building. I must thank Samaiden for taking this bold initiative to invest in Solar PV for Sunway Nexis as this is in line with our nation’s initiative on implementing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles in the workplace. It starts with wise and timely corporate decisions that has long-term repercussions for all concerned.”

“With the recent announcement made by the Minister of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change YB Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad on the surcharge of 20 sen/kWh to be imposed for industry medium voltage and high-voltage users including multinational corporations, we foresee that the solar PV system will be the best alternative for them to deploy in order to reduce their electricity bills,” Ir. Chow noted.

Samaiden Group Berhad: 0223 [BURSA: SAMAIDEN], https://samaiden.com.my/

Queensland Announces Sampling Results Averaging 2.65% Li2O from the Mia Li-1 Occurrence at Its Mia Lithium Property in Quebec, Canada

Queensland Gold Hills Corp. (TSXV: OZAU) (OTCQB: MNNFF) (“Queensland Gold” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce results from surface sampling programs completed on the 86 square kilometre Mia Lithium Property (the “Property”) in the James Bay area of Quebec, Canada, by Canadian Mining House, the vendors of the Property (“CMH”), prior to its acquisition by the Company.

Highlights:
– 18 outcrop grab samples (from 2021 and 2022) confirm the Mia Li-1 occurrence with results averaging 2.65% Li2O.
– 3 outcrop grab samples from 2022 confirm the spodumene observations at the Carte 1879 occurrence with results averaging 1.65% Li2O.
– A trend of approximately 7km of unsampled pegmatite between the two mineralized occurrences is highlighted as a significant area to be followed up in 2023.

President & CEO Alicia Milne states, “We are pleased with the encouraging sampling results near the Mia Li-1 and Mia Li-2 occurrences which will provide valuable information to add to our 2023 exploration program.”

2021 & 2022 Sampling Details

A total of 17 pegmatite outcrop grab samples were collected in 2021 by Services Geologiques T-Rex Inc. of Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec (“SGT”), with the aim of verifying the Mia Li-1 and Mia Li-2 lithium occurrences (Figure 1, Table 1). The sample results confirmed the Mia Li-1 occurrence with five grab samples averaging 2.31% Li2O, but were not able to confirm the Mia Li-2 occurrence with two grab samples returning background lithium. One sample was collected 700 metres east of the Mia Li-1 area with 2.73% Li2O (herein named MIA 3). Additionally, nine samples were collected south of Lac Miakadow to test a coarse-grained granitic rock type that is outside of the main trend and returned background lithium.

A follow-up sampling program was conducted in fall 2022, with nineteen pegmatite outcrop grab samples collected by SGT for CMH (Figure 1, Table 1). Thirteen samples were collected in the Mia Li-1 area and further confirmed the occurrence with an average grade of 2.79% Li2O. Additionally, three samples were collected in the Carte 1879 occurrence and for the first time verified spodumene at this location with the results averaging 1.65% Li2O. Three samples were collected from a pegmatite occurrence, outside of Figure 1 and returned only background levels of lithium.

Collectively, the sampling from 18 outcrop grab samples at the Mia Li-1 occurrence (5 in 2021 and 13 in 2022) have an average grade of 2.65% Li2O.

Table 1 – Results Table, 2021 and 2022 Samples
https://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Queensland202212213.jpg

About the Mia Lithium Property

The Property is comprised of 170 mineral claims, located 62 km East of Wemindji Community in the Eeyou Itschee Territory, James Bay, Quebec. The lithium mineral showings are located approximately 10 kilometres from the nearest highway.

The Property geology is part of the Yasinski Lake area, identified by narrow greenstone belt slivers, belonging to volcanic rocks and related sediment the Yasinski Group and pierced by syn-tectonic tonalite and granodiorite suite. The Property is located in the western extremity of this geological area, covering various lithologies and favourable structures, known to host spodumene bearing pegmatites. The southern half of the Property covers a northeast limb of the Vieux Comptoir granite and a concordant intrusive body described as a spodumene granite on SIGEOM, the Quebec provincial government’s geomining information system: https://sigeom.mines.gouv.qc.ca/signet/classes/I1108_afchCarteIntr.

Historical work by Main Exploration Company Ltd. in 1959 (GM10200) reported several spodumene-bearing pegmatites on the Property and mapped an 8.3 kilometre-long trend of discontinuous pegmatite intrusions. SIGEOM lists nine metallic deposits directly on the Mia Lithium property including two for lithium, namely Mia Li-1 and Mia Li-2. Carte 1879 is listed as a spodumene mineral deposit as no assays were recorded for it.

The westernmost mineral showings Mia-Li1 and Mia-Li2 were sampled in 1997 by Quebec government geologists and assays returned grades of 0.47% Li2O and 2.27% Li2O respectively. Numerous pegmatite intrusions have been recorded along the 8.3 kilometre long trend but were never been followed up for their lithium potential. The 1959 report also details that the pegmatite dykes are as much as 100 feet (30.5 metres) in width and are commonly zoned, with spodumene crystals described as being as much as 2 feet (0.61 metres) in length.

About Queensland

Queensland Gold Hills is Canadian mineral exploration company currently advancing exploration of the 86km2 Mia Lithium Project in the James Bay area of Quebec, Canada, as well as two highly-prospective gold projects located in the historic goldfields of Queensland, Australia: the Big Hill Gold Project and the Titan Project which collectively cover 110 square kilometers in the Talgai Goldfields of the broader Warwick-Texas District and host 54 high-grade historical gold mines.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Alicia Milne, Kevin Bottomley
President & CEO Director
amilne@queenslandgoldhills.com, kbottomley@queenslandgoldhills.com
Telephone: 1 (800) 482-7560, Telephone: 1 (800) 482-7560

E-mail: info@queenslandgoldhills.com
Twitter: @QLDGoldhills

Qualified Person

Neil McCallum, B.Sc., P.Geo., of Dahrouge Geological Consulting Ltd., a registered permit holder with the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release.

The 2021 and 2022 rock samples were analysed Activation Laboratories (Actlabs – Ste-Germaine Boule, Quebec). Samples were, dried at 105 degrees Celsius, and crushed to 75% passing 2 mm. The lithium analysis were performed by total assay ICPOES (4 acid). The 2022 samples were also analysed with the UT-4 (QOP Total/QOP Ultratrace- 4 acid Digest -Total Digestion ICPOES/ICPMS) for multi-elemental analysis.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian legislation. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: “believes”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “estimates”, “plans”, “may”, “should”, “would”, “will”, “potential”, “scheduled” or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Accordingly, all statements in this news release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations and orientations regarding the future including, without limitation, any statements or plans regard the geological prospects of the Company’s properties and the future exploration endeavors of the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same. Readers are cautioned that mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business and accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors are discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Management Discussion and Analysis for its recently completed fiscal period, which is available under Company’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Indonesia encourages collaboration to achieve blue economy in AIS Forum

Indonesia emphasized the need for collaboration to achieve the blue economy and green economy concepts among the members of the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum.

“Next year (in 2023), through the head of state level meeting, we hope the joint commitment of island and archipelagic nations around the world (which are the members of the AIS Forum) will encourage Indonesia to realize its vision as the world’s maritime axis,” Indonesian Coordinating Minister of Marine Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, said here on Tuesday.

The AIS Forum, which was initiated in 2018, has held four ministerial-level meetings so far to encourage commitment and discussion between archipelagic and island countries to establish concrete cooperation and collaboration on improving their economy and protecting the marine environment.

Additionally, Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi reminded member countries of AIS Forum to be able to synergize with other global initiatives. “We must have the same spirit, namely the spirit of collaboration, because we can only overcome various global challenges if the world is united, not divided,” Marsudi said.

Then, Marsudi added, the AIS Forum should strengthen its commitments to solve common problems in managing the oceans.

In 2023, Indonesia will host the AIS Summit which will be a part of efforts to realize the country’s vision to become a global maritime axis. Indonesia and other archipelagic and island nations on the AIS Forum reiterated to increase commitments and efforts to tackle the danger of climate crisis by strengthening collaboration in the blue economy.

“When we talk about the green economy, we talk about carbon. A coastline is one of the biggest carbon sinks through mangroves and corals,” Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said.

The Indonesian government also committed to achieving Net Zero Emissions (NZE) in 2060 which is expected to grow the investment potential in the blue economy, green economy, and circular economy sectors. Lahadalia also emphasized efforts to protect and restore the wealth of marine resources, including planting mangroves, protecting coral reefs, and preserving marine life.

Indonesia is currently intensifying the implementation of the blue economy and green economy in its investment and development program including the development project for the New National Capital City (IKN).

The Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Muhadjir Effendy hoped the city would be able to create an inclusive and sustainable national economic transformation by utilizing digital infrastructure and implementing a green economy. “Thus, the development of IKN is expected to be a new basic in creating the inclusive and sustainable national economic transformation through business modernization, digital infrastructure improvement that implements the green economy and blue economy,” Muhadjir said. The Minister said the new capital city is a national identity and the driver for the Indonesian economy in the future.

According to the data of IKN.go.id, there will be six economic clusters in IKN including Clean Technology Industry Cluster, Integrated Pharmaceutical Industry Cluster, Sustainable Agriculture Industry, Ecotourism and Health Tourism Cluster, Chemical Products and Byproducts Cluster, as well as Low Carbon Energy Cluster. Besides, there will be two supporting clusters derived from the 21st Century Education Cluster, and Smart City and Industry 4.0 Centre.

–Antara

Hafary poised to become a key player in Southeast Asia’s ceramic industry – JV to add manufacturing capabilities to its portfolio

Hafary Holdings Limited (“Hafary” or the “Group”), the leading distributor of premium ceramic tiles in Singapore has expanded its operations by gaining manufacturing capabilities through the incorporation of a new Joint Venture (“JV”) Company, International Ceramics Manufacturing Hub Sdn Bhd (“ICMHSB”). The JV will enable the Group to move upstream and overcome supply chain constraints as well as leverage on majority shareholder Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad’s (“Hap Seng”) MML brand and its distribution networks to grow sales in Malaysia and the regional export market.

Since 2015, the strong union between the two companies, Hafary and Hap Seng, have provided a steadfast supply of ceramic tiles to the building material industry in the region. 2023 will see Hap Seng and Hafary move to the next level of their integration, with the ceramic manufacturing and distribution business divisions within the Hap Seng Group consolidated under the umbrella of Hafary, arguably one of the most competent players in this industry. The strong synergies are bound to solidify their leadership position in the ceramics industry going forward.

Strengthening core capabilities through a synergistic JV

With over 40 years of industry experience and its extensive distribution capabilities in Singapore, Hafary is well-positioned to capitalise on this regional expansion opportunity. Together with its JV partners, Guangdong ITA Element Building Materials Co. Limited (“ITA”) and CNA Pte Ltd (“CNA”), the Group will lease two manufacturing plants in Johor, Malaysia, from Hap Seng Group.

CNA, an established premium tile manufacturer will bring its significant manufacturing capabilities and know-how into the JV. Having operated manufacturing plants in China for over 13 years and in Malaysia for over 3 years, CNA has vast experience in serving international markets like America, EU and Australia. Coupled with ITA’s fine expertise in tile design patterns, Hafary is on track to become a key player in Southeast Asia’s ceramic industry. To further build on their core capabilities, Hafary has plans to invest approximately MYR40 million to ramp up the plants’ production capacity from approximately 16,000 m2 per day to approximately 41,000 m2 per day.

In addition to helming Hap Seng Group’s ceramic business division, Hafary will also undertake the distribution of the MML brand of ceramic tiles through its wholly owned subsidiary Hafary Trading Sdn Bhd (“HTSB”) for retail, project as well as export markets. With greater control over its supply chain, Hafary will be able to fully capture MML’s steadily growing demand and will also be better equipped to take on larger project opportunities.

The road ahead: Forging a path to become key player in the ceramic industry in SEA
These strategic partnerships with Hap Seng’s subsidiaries and the synergies that they will generate will help set Hafary on a robust growth trajectory. The joint venture will enhance not only Hafary’s distribution outreach but also its production capabilities across Singapore, Malaysia and beyond. With this integration, Hafary strives to address potential supply chain issues in order to stay ahead of the competition. As Hafary continues to scale, it will aim for greater level of efficiency in its operations moving forward.

About Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad

Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad (“HSCB”) is a public company listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. HSCB is a diversified group with six core businesses namely plantation, property investment & development, credit financing, automotive, trading and building materials. Progressive and forward-looking, the Group’s emphasis on value creation, operational excellence and sustainability has enabled the Group to consistently deliver value to our shareholders

About Hafary Holdings Limited

Hafary Holdings Limited (“Hafary”) is a public company listed on the Main Board of Singapore Exchange. Hafary is a leading supplier of premium tiles, stone, mosaic,wood-flooring, quartz top and sanitary ware and fittings in Singapore. Leveraging on our strong sourcing and procurement network, we carry a wide variety of surfacing materials from Europe (mainly Italy and Spain) and Asia and supply to our customers at competitive prices.

About CNA Pte Ltd

CNA Pte Ltd (“CNA”) focuses on ceramic tile manufacturing and currently have over 3 years’ of experience in operating tile factories in Malaysia. CNA has extensive experience in the Ceramic manufacturing factory in China which focuses on high-end ceramic tile designs for international markets.

About Guangdong ITA Element

Guangdong ITA Element (“ITA”) is Hafary’s existing long term business partner in China and Hafary owned 50% shareholdings in ITA. ITA owned various design patterns in the tiles industry and has design capabilities. Since the establishment of this joint venture, Hafary has been sourcing tiles from ITA.

Issued for and on behalf of Hafary Holdings Limited. by Financial PR
Kamal SAMUEL/Shivam SARAF/Urvija DIWAN
Email: kamal@financialpr.com.sg / shivam@financialpr.com.sg / urvija@financialpr.com.sg
Tel: (65) 6438 2990 / Fax: (65) 6438 0064

Fight Zone Opens Inaugural Performance Centre at Suntec City

Fight Zone, a born-in-Singapore fitness brand today announced the opening of its first franchised outlet at Suntec City. Located in the heart of Singapore’s business district, the outlet will also be the first among its outlets to focus on physical transformation of clients and muaythai, moving away from just providing high-intensity training.

The Fight Zone Performance Centre will be the first of six franchised Fight Zone fitness centres which will open all around Singapore in 2023 as the brand aggressively expands its presence locally.

Apart from personal training with authentic muaythai, there will also be specialised kettlebell classes and Suples Bulgarian Bag strength and conditioning classes with the sole aim of helping members undergo their fitness and transformation programmes.

Said Sasidharan Unnithan, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Fight Zone, “We have come a long way since opening the first Fight Zone outlet five years ago. While the pandemic set our plans back for a while, we are now back on track to continue growing Fight Zone as a brand which helps people transform their lives.”

“While the last two years have been somewhat difficult for the fitness industry brought about by the unpredictable nature of the pandemic, we are proud to have been able to come out of it successfully and are now poised for growth. Our next step for Fight Zone would be to take the brand regional.”

Added Hsien Naidu, CEO of Top Franchise Asia, “Fight Zone is a growing brand which shows a great deal of potential not just in Singapore, but in the region. With citizens of the region experiencing increased standards of living and better quality of life, it is inevitable that many will start investing in fitness as a means of improving their mental and physical wellbeing.”

Fight Zone opened its first outlet in Suntec City in 2017 and since then, have added two more outlets at Velocity at Novena and AMK Hub at Ang Mo Kio. The newly opened Fight Zone Performance Centre with its muaythai focus will also help develop the popularity of muaythai as a sport.

Said President of the Singapore Muaythai Federation Clement Ong, “With more Fight Zone outlets, this will provide more venues for the learning, development and promotion of Muaythai as a sport.”

Members of the public can sign up as members of the all-new Fight Zone Performance Centre here ( https://www.fightzonesg.com/book-a-trial/ ). Potential business owners looking to start their own Fight Zone franchise outlets can connect with the team here ( https://www.fightzonesg.com/contact/ ).

About Fight Zone

Fight Zone was first conceptualised in 2017 and began with its first fitness outlet in Suntec City. The brainchild of CEO and Founder Sasidharan Unnithan, it was conceptualised with the objective of giving working professionals and fitness buffs an innovative way of keeping fit without taking too much of their daily time. Fight Zone uses various techniques and fitness forms to keep enthusiasts and members engaged throughout their workout. https://www.fightzonesg.com/

Media Contact:
hello@swstrategies.org

Club Med appoints Olivier Monceau as its new General Manager of Singapore and Malaysia

Club Med, the leader in premium all-inclusive holidays, has announced the appointment of Olivier Monceau as the new General Manager of Singapore and Malaysia effective from October 2022.

With his strong business acumen and deep brand knowledge, Olivier is poised to deliver success while demonstrating an inspiring, creative and fresh approach to leadership. Under his leadership, Olivier’s priorities will be to guide the team through the next phase of strategic brand growth within the region, drive a purposeful brand building through exceptional travel destinations, and to solidify the brand as the leader for all-inclusive ski and mountain holidays. Olivier will also lead his team to deliver effective and targeted end-to-end omni-channel experience to clients that synchronises consideration and conversion to grow top line and client acquisition. Club Med will continue its journey to being the #1 brand choice for vacations and business trips preferred by families, active couples and business-leisure clients.

“Olivier brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his new role and I am delighted to have him on the team as he leads the execution of our aggressive plans to grow the Club Med brand within the region,” says Rachael Harding, Chief Executive Officer of East, South Asia and Pacific (ESAP). “Moreover, Olivier has produced exceptional results in his previous appointment within Club Med, and I am confident that he will accelerate the strategic growth in both Singapore and Malaysia markets. His appointment is also perfectly timed to succeed our new capacity in Kiroro, Hokkaido in 2023 and Borneo, Kota Kinabalu in 2024.”

Originally from Paris, France, Olivier embarked on his Club Med journey in 2016, where he was appointed General Manager of Russia. Olivier was responsible for building brand awareness and positioning Club Med as a premium holiday brand in the market. Together with his team, Olivier turned unprecedented challenges into opportunities during the global pandemic as he tapped on an unrealised potential for long-haul and upscale travel within the region and delivered an effective marketing campaign that led to +400% market growth in 2021 compared to 2019 in an exceedingly challenging time, through the successful recruitment of a new Premium clientele and achieved more than 45% of the total sales for the Exclusive Collection resorts. The market has also been a key contributor to the reopening of Club Med in Seychelles and Maldives, both of which became crucial resorts in the group’s rebound once travel bans were lifted.

“I am excited to be joining such a dynamic team and even happier to lead the brand through its next phase of growth,” shares Olivier. “I look forward to cementing Club Med as the preferred holiday brand for families while building on our shared vision to further enhance the value of our brand towards achieving a long-term strategic growth within the region.”

Now in the heart of a city pulsating with boundless energy, Olivier together with his wife and lovely daughters are embracing their new home in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with open arms and heart. Since his arrival, Olivier can be found busy exploring the city’s neighbourhoods, discovering new cultures and the vibrant street hawker culinary scene.

About Club Med

Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gerard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding in activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world’s leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employes (GEs), representing 110 nationalities. http://www.clubmed.asia/

Press Contacts for Club Med
PRecious Communications for Club Med
clubmed@preciouscomms.com
+65 6303 0567

GHY and Curtin University Sign MOU to Jointly Shape the Next Generation of Media & Film Talents in the Region

G.H.Y Culture & Media Holding Co., Limited (“GHY”, and together with its subsidiaries and its PRC Affiliated Entities, the “Group”), a leading diversified group in Asia’s media and entertainment industry, is pleased to announce that G.H.Y Culture & Media (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary of GHY, has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) with a world-renowned education establishment, Curtin University, for an academic collaboration in higher education programs in Asia related to media and film studies.

Under the MOU, both parties have agreed to (i) discuss opportunities for education-industry collaboration and work- integrated learning programs, (ii) explore development of a global major and cross-campus industry-integrated learning programs, (iii) exchange information relating to activities in fields of mutual interest and (iv) provide the students of Curtin with mobility opportunities.

Curtin University is an innovative, global university known for its high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and commitment to preparing students for jobs of the future. Curtin University is one of the top universities worldwide and it has campuses in Western Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Dubai and Mauritius.

Since its establishment, GHY has placed a strong emphasis on identifying, nurturing and promoting talent in the media and film industry across Southeast Asia. While providing access and valuable exposure of its end-to-end production capabilities, GHY has also initiated various tie-ups with industry leaders and education institutions to provide more opportunities for aspiring talents to directly learn from industry professionals and gain practical experience in this niche industry.

In addition, the Group has been expanding its portfolio of entertainment content and products, with diversification into new growth adjacencies such as musicals and its first-ever immersive live action game based on GHY’s “Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty” drama series.

Supported by a robust balance sheet with a net working capital of approximately S$130.1 million as at 30 June 2022, the Group is well-positioned to capture organic and inorganic growth initiatives, to capture the recovery and to bring sustainable long-term returns to shareholders.

Mr. Guo Jingyu, Executive Chairman and Group CEO, said, “New media consumers in Asia are dominated by younger demographics and the method of their media consumption is shifting from the big screen to their mobile phones with various forms of personalisation.

To better prepare and equip students for the future trends in the media and film industry, both GHY and Curtin University share a common vision to provide a structured higher-learning platform so as to develop Asia’s talent pool and technology in the media and film industry to become one of the best in the world.

With GHY’s strong in-house production capabilities and established industry network, there will be more opportunities for industry exchanges and on-the-job training programs for students under this academic collaboration.

For GHY, this is part of our initiatives to have an increasingly regional relationship and impact, strengthening our linkages with Asia through education and technology that are interconnected with our diversified business model within Asia’s media and entertainment industry.”

Professor Richard Blythe, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Humanities, Curtin University, said, “The MOU would offer new opportunities for students to gain invaluable real-world experience. This exciting new industry-education collaboration will bring together Curtin’s long-standing and successful screen arts expertise with GHY’s strong in- house production skills and clear industry connections.”

Professor Blythe added, “We are delighted to be working with GHY Culture and Media to help develop and foster the next generation of media and film industry stars across Asia.”

About G.H.Y Culture & Media Holding Co. Ltd. (SGX: XJB; Bloomberg: GHY:SP)

Listed on the Mainboard of the Singapore Exchange, G.H.Y Culture & Media Holding Co., Limited (“GHY” or the “Group”) is a leading diversified group within Asia’s media and entertainment industry. GHY has produced several dramas and films in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”), Singapore and Malaysia that have been broadcasted and/or distributed on major TV networks and leading video streaming platforms in the PRC. The Group has also undertaken the production of concerts for well-known international artistes in Singapore, with upcoming concerts to be held in Singapore, Malaysia and Australia.

GHY has strong in-house production teams, with scriptwriters, directors and producers who have been involved in various notable dramas and films. The production teams have consistently produced quality dramas and films and the Group also possesses expertise and capabilities across the business value chain.

Currently headquartered in Singapore and the PRC with over 170 employees, the Group also engages in concert production, talent management services, and costumes, props and make-up services.

For more information, please visit https://ghyculturemedia.com/

About Curtin University

Curtin University is Western Australia’s largest university, with close to 60,000 students. In addition to the University’s main campus in Perth, Curtin also has a major regional campus in Kalgoorlie, and a campus in Midland, as well as four global campuses in Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai and Mauritius. Curtin staff and students come from Australia and over 120 other countries around the world, with half its international students studying at Curtin’s offshore campuses.

Curtin is ranked between 9th to 18th in Australia according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2022 and has achieved a QS Five Stars Plus rating, the highest available for a tertiary institution, and one of only eight to do so in Australia.

The University has built a reputation around innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, being at the forefront of many high-profile research projects in astronomy, biosciences, economics, mining and information technology. It is also recognised globally for its strong connections with the industry, and for its commitment to preparing students for the jobs of the future.

For further information, visit curtin.edu.au.

This press release should be read in conjunction with the announcement uploaded on SGXNet on 8 December 2022.

DBS Bank Ltd. and UOB Kay Hian Private Limited are the joint issue managers and global coordinators (the “Joint Issue Managers and Global Coordinators”) for the initial public offering of shares in, and listing of, G.H.Y Culture & Media Holding Co., Limited on the Main Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited. The Joint Issue Managers and Global Coordinators assume no responsibility for the contents of this announcement.

For media and analysts’ queries, please contact: 8PR ASIA Pte Ltd
Alex Tan
T: +65 9451 5252
E: alex.tan@8prasia.com

Smart Digital Retail Philippines is going physical

We are excited to announce that the 2023 Edition of Smart Digital Retail will be hosted on February 23rd, 2023 in SMX Convention Center Manila. You can expect to see even more senior profile delegates, more refreshing discussions and discover all redesigning business plans, processes and new technologies that will unlock new ways of running a retail business in the Philippines.

The retail sector in the Philippines has been facing challenging times in the study period, which worsened due to the sudden COVID-19 pandemic. The majority forms of physical retail, including supermarkets and convenience stores, hypermarkets, specialty stores, department stores, and other small and medium store owners around the country, are facing challenges owing to the lockdown and physical distancing measures. Due to the fear of contamination, the state of Philippine retail, and the global economy as a whole, is entering a time of both hope and uncertainty. As countries continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been a concerted push to return to “normal.”

To mitigate the disruption caused by this crisis, Philippine retailers need to have a window of opportunity to reinvent their customer experience to meet consumer expectations. Technology is a vital tool that will enable businesses to enhance engagement through both online and physical channels. The transition will require a shift toward a more fully integrated technology ecosystem that can evolve future value propositions. Retailers are already recognizing the importance of technology to their operations, but fully seizing the opportunity will require a distinct retail strategy that incorporates greater partnership collaboration and investment in emerging tech.

This event will cover the redesigning business plans, processes and new technologies that will unlock new ways of running a retail business in the Philippines. Key topics including:

– Consumer behavior change
– Retail performance in the Philippines
– Digital commerce and omnichannel
– Overcoming disruption for resilient supply chains in the future
– The new retail experience through technology
– Retail stores: a shift to digital, experiential shopping
– New approach to workforce empowerment
– Contactless Payments & Autonomous Shopping
– Exploring the Philippine BNPL landscape
– The rise of chatbots and voice commerce
– AI, robotics, and VR will soon dominate retail: welcome to retail 2.0
– Metaverse for the future of retail

With Smart Digital Retail Philippines, we will be looking at the challenges that are impacting the Philippine retail industry to create improved consumer experiences and more efficient creation. That said, this where all the leading retail companies and technology innovators meet and brainstorm in creating a sophisticated product development and present practical solutions that enable retailers and brands to stay relevant in these difficult times, connect with decision makers and enable the creation of new business opportunities.

For sponsorship and speaking engagement, please contact our event director at management@smartdigitalretail.com or visit our event website at www.smartdigitalretail.com.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of the biggest event in the Philippine retail ecosystem! Witness how we gather all of the leading experts in the industry and share their thoughts and insights with very timely topics.