Toshiba’s Commitment to a Quantum-Safe Singapore

SINGAPORE, Nov. 5, 2024 – As a global business hub with advanced digital connectivity, Singapore is well-positioned to lead the charge in quantum-safe technologies. The 2023 Singapore Digital Connectivity Blueprint highlighted an 8.6% expansion in the Information and Communications sector in 2022, emphasizing the importance of resilience and security in a digital world. With advancements in quantum computing threatening traditional encryption methods, Singapore plans to implement quantum security technologies such as Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) through the National Quantum-Safe Network Plus (NQSN+).

Toshiba is at the forefront of establishing a quantum-safe future for Singapore, leveraging its extensive expertise in QKD technology. With over three decades of research in quantum technology, Toshiba has shifted from academia to commercializing QKD systems. The recent opening of a £20 million Quantum Technology Centre in Cambridge, UK, underscores Toshiba’s commitment to developing quantum-secure networking solutions. This initiative addresses the vulnerabilities of traditional encryption methods, ensuring robust data security through advanced QKD technology that utilizes quantum physics principles to create resilient encryption against potential decryption attempts.

In 2021, Toshiba formed a strategic partnership with SpeQtral to develop cutting-edge quantum security solutions, combining Toshiba’s fiber-based QKD expertise with SpeQtral’s satellite QKD innovations. This collaboration has yielded significant achievements, including launching Southeast Asia’s first Quantum Networks EXperience Centre (QNEX) for demonstrations and prototyping.

The partnership has achieved significant milestones, including the first quantum-secure link across SPTel’s diverse and scalable fiber network, enhancing the security of sensitive data. The joint efforts are further solidified by the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SpeQtral and ST Engineering to accelerate the development of tailored quantum-safe solutions, ensuring robust protection for sensitive communications across sectors such as finance and government while positioning Singapore as a leader in quantum security in Southeast Asia.

Toshiba collaborates closely with SPTel-SpeQtral to educate businesses about quantum technologies, including Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), as part of the NQSN+ initiative to create a Quantum-Safe Singapore. This partnership enhances digital infrastructure and data protection against quantum threats while fostering innovation and security for sustainable economic growth. With nearly 150 years of experience, Toshiba is committed to advancing quantum cryptography and establishing strategic alliances to secure Singapore’s digital landscape, bolstering the nation’s position in quantum technologies and cybersecurity.

Talent Marketplace, FlexiBees raises Pre-Series A Round led by Inflection Point Ventures

Singapore, 8th Aug 2024- FlexiBees, a Talent MarketPlace, providing flexible, part-time and remote work solutions has raised its Pre-Series A Round led by Inflection Point Ventures. The round also saw participation from Shan M S, COO of Namma Yatri, Reema Mahajan, founder of International Women in Dubai, and other notable investors. The funds will be used for expanding its technological infrastructure, refining its AI algorithms, and broadening its market presence to better meet the needs of both employers and talent.

FlexiBees is a leading vetted talent platform connecting women professionals with part-time, project-based, and remote roles. Serving over 700 businesses globally, including major firms like Kimberly-Clark Professional and Tata Realty, as well as high-growth startups such as Qapita and Creditmantri, FlexiBees has a network of 60,000+ professionals. They have successfully placed 1,400+ women in flexible careers and impacted 20,000+ women through returnship preparation and interview coaching.

Shreya Prakash, Co-Founder and CEO of FlexiBees, directs Business Development and Marketing, drawing on a decade of experience at Hindustan Unilever. Rashmi Rammohan, Co-Founder and COO oversees Business Delivery, Technology, and Digital, with a distinguished background in leading Media, Digital, and e-commerce Insights at P&G. Deepa Swami, Co-Founder and Chief Talent Officer, manages Talent Acquisition, Project Operations, and Finance & Legal, supported by her prior roles as a Management Consultant at KPMG and in the education sector with Aptech. All three are distinguished MBA graduates from IIM Bangalore.

Vikram Ramasubramaniam, Partner, Inflection Point Ventures says, “Balancing household and office responsibilities often takes a significant toll on individuals, such as new parents or those caring for aging relatives, leading to compromises. FlexiBees addresses this by offering part-time, project-based, and remote jobs, enabling professionals to manage both their personal and professional lives effectively. This approach allows them to contribute their expertise while maintaining personal commitments, benefiting employers with access to skilled talent.”

FlexiBees provides value for startups and SMBs with cost-effective and agile solutions, helping professionals balance their careers and personal lives. Their advanced vetting technology ensures high-quality matches, with 70% of business from repeat clients. FlexiBees offers a broad range of roles such as Sales, Digital Marketing, Finance, HR, and Technology, significantly reducing hiring time by 90%. For professionals, it offers flexible, career-advancing opportunities that promote financial independence and agency.

As of July 2024, FlexiBees has a team of over 30 professionals working remotely, all sourced from their own talent pool, exemplifying their commitment to flexibility.

Shreya Prakash, Co -Founder & CEO, FlexiBees, says, “Our objective is to scale our operations to generate employment opportunities and improve employability for millions of women professionals currently outside the full-time workforce. This initiative will provide business across the world with access to a remarkable talent pool, helping them grow competitively. We express our sincere gratitude to Inflection Point Ventures for their confidence in our vision and ambition. We could not have asked for more esteemed partners.”

Rashmi Manmohan, Co- Founder and COO FlexiBees, “We recognized early on that the traditional marketplace matching approach was insufficient for our needs. Companies today are hiring for a wide array of roles flexibly, from Sales and Marketing to Content Strategy. Traditional gig Marketplaces, lack the capability to effectively manage these complex skill matches.”

In 2022, FlexiBees was honoured as the first runner-up in the Tie Women’s competition for South East Asia and South Asia. Notably, FlexiBees was recognized by Jefferies, a leading brokerage firm, as a pioneering force in the flexible work sector.

FlexiBees targets startups and SMBs within a global ecosystem of over 3.5 million startups spread across more than 300 hubs, collectively generating $4 trillion in value. The company seeks to capture a share of this substantial market by offering experienced, cost-effective, and on-demand talent from India and other regions where the pool of qualified women professionals remains under-utilized.

Summit Planners: Common Mistakes When Writing a Will

SINGAPORE, July 22, 2024  — Summit Planners recognises that many individuals may face challenges when drafting their Will. Based on their extensive experience, Summit Planners aims to highlight some of the common mistakes found in Wills to help the members of the public better understand the formalities and potential issues associated with a Will.

SP-Logo Logo

Appointing a witness who is also the beneficiary

It is common for many individuals to write their own Will to save costs. However, this decision poses the risk of overlooking and arranging the beneficiary as one of the witnesses of the Will, leading to the invalidity of the gift to the witness. In other words, if the witness is also the named beneficiary of the Will, he/she may forfeit the entitlement in the Will.

Neglecting to consider beneficiaries’ characteristics, lifestyle, and needs

Failing to consider the unique circumstances of the beneficiaries may affect them in various ways. The beneficiaries may be dissatisfied with the arrangements, leading to unnecessary disputes. The beneficiaries may also encounter financial difficulties if what you provide for them fails to meet their needs. Additionally, the inheritance may be exhausted quickly if financially incapable beneficiaries are given a vast lump sum instead of periodic payments.

Did not take existing loans into consideration

Often, many individuals may focus on the assets distribution without considering the outstanding debts tied to those assets. After your demise, the beneficiaries may inherit the assets, alongside with the loans. In other words, the beneficiaries will be responsible for the loan repayment even if they are incapable of doing so. Additionally, failing to consider the loan may also complicate the probate process as the executor may have to liquidate your immoveable assets to settle debts.

Too many restrictions and rigid instructions

Having fixed and clear instructions may be beneficial but not optimal, particularly when they leave no room for changed circumstances or needs. Such rigid restrictions may often result in unnecessary stress and missed opportunities. For instance, a testator may include strict provisions for the beneficiary to attend a school of the testator’s choice, failing which the beneficiary will forfeit his/her interest in the Will.

Therefore, it is essential to understand your unique circumstances and anticipate potential issues that may arise before the preparation of a Will.

To raise awareness of the importance of Will Planning, Summit Planners are running monthly Will Planning seminars to encourage the members of the public to take action to ensure that their affairs are well taken care of after their demise.

HTX Integrates Fireblocks Off Exchange: Enhanced Solution for Trading Security

SINGAPORE, July 18, 2024  — HTX announces its integration of Fireblocks Off Exchange, an innovative direct custody solution that mitigates exchange counterparty risk. Fireblocks, an enterprise platform to manage digital asset operations and build innovative businesses on blockchain, launched Off Exchange to enable trading firms and asset managers to trade on centralized exchanges from an on-chain multi-party computation (MPC) shared wallet. The integration of Off Exchange will help strengthen digital asset security, streamline global compliance operations, and create a better virtual asset trading experience for HTX users.

Off Exchange effectively mitigates exchange counterparty risk by allocating and mirroring assets from a wallet both institutional traders and exchanges mutually control, leveraging Fireblocks’ MPC technology and on-chain settlement. In the last 90 days, the Fireblocks Network, upon which Off Exchange was deployed, facilitated over $200 billion in transactions between institutional traders and over 30 connected exchanges.

In March 2023, HTX joined the Fireblocks Network, an enterprise-grade digital asset transfer platform for rapid digital asset transactions and dynamic payment workflows, to facilitate seamless trading on the HTX platform, leveraging the direct custody solution offered by Fireblocks.

Fireblocks Off Exchange: Battle-Tested Technology and Real-Time Settlement

Fireblocks Off Exchange sets itself apart from other third-party custodial solutions by utilizing MPC technology to help traders mitigate exchange counterparty risk by locking funds in secure MPC-based shared wallets.

Justin Sun, a member of the HTX Global Advisory Board, acknowledged the importance of leveraging Fireblocks, stating, “By working with Fireblocks, HTX will deliver a more secure trading environment and an enhanced user experience. HTX is committed to establishing itself as the world’s leading one-stop trading platform, earning the trust of millions of users worldwide.”

Michael Shaulov, CEO and Co-founder of Fireblocks, said, “Exchanges are increasingly looking to innovative technology and institutional-grade security to address the challenges around counterparty risk and to ensure customer funds are protected. Fireblocks Off Exchange provides HTX with the ability to monitor and validate client collateral on-chain and enforce risk management without taking custody, as well as increases liquidity and maximizes capital efficiency, creating a more secure digital asset trading environment.”

HTX recognizes the launch of Fireblocks Off Exchange as a milestone in risk mitigation for over-the-counter (OTC) transactions in the cryptocurrency market. Adhering to the “User First” principle, HTX is committed to consistently reducing trading risks and enhancing the overall trading experience. By working with Fireblocks, HTX aims to contribute to a cryptocurrency ecosystem that fosters greater freedom in trading, while simultaneously decreasing risk and increasing liquidity. Users from both platforms can seamlessly perform instant transfers, payments, and other operations directly through their HTX accounts. This move enhances the platform’s global presence and provides a myriad of investment opportunities for users worldwide.

New COSMOS research reveals Centrum Silver supports cognitive health in healthy older adults

SINGAPORE, July 17, 2024 — Haleon-owned Centrum, the world’s No.1 multivitamin brand, has unveiled results from a recent study that found adults aged 60 years or above who consumed multivitamins (MVMs) daily for at least 2 years showed improved cognitive function as compared to those who consumed a placebo. Conducted involving 5,200 older adults in three independent studies, the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS)* data spotlights cognitive function as an age-related health issue and provides (first) suggestive evidence that the simple act of taking daily multivitamin supplements like Centrum Silver can support cognition amongst healthy older adults.

SG-CENTRUM

Commenting on the research, Dr Vandana Garg, Medical & Scientific Affairs Director (Southeast Asia and Taiwan), Haleon, said “Cognitive health is defined as the ability to think, learn, and remember, and is an important component of performing everyday activities. Ultimately, this ability is an essential component of healthy aging. However, age-related cognitive decline amongst aging adults may be primarily due to lack of a balanced nutrition, in addition to other factors. Cognitive health can be supported with MVM supplementation. Coupled with regular exercise, good nutrition, and overall healthy lifestyle habits, incorporating multivitamins into one’s health regimen can support them to age well and maintain a better quality of life.”

In line with Centrum’s long-standing commitment to raise awareness on cognitive health, and in recognition of an ageing society like Singapore’s[2], Haleon is also working in collaboration with the National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine on a large-scale human clinical trial to test the effect of multivitamins and minerals in supporting healthy aging. Professor Andrea Maier, Oon Chiew Seng Professor, National University of Singapore (NUS), said “The COSMOS study are relevant to Singapore, where healthy ageing is firmly positioned at the forefront of national priorities[2]. In line with this, we at the NUS, in collaboration with Haleon, are focused on understanding how supplements can play a vital role in supporting a healthy lifespan.”

In addition to the ongoing research collaborations, Centrum will also embark on a nationwide drive across retailers and healthcare partners July onwards. As part of this drive, the brand will introduce healthy aging education units in-store and on-ground, as well as on digital platforms.

SPTel Partners with ST Engineering, Nokia and Fortinet on Quantum-Safe Services to Boost Cyber Defence for Organisations

SINGAPORE, July 17, 2024 /– SPTel, a joint venture company of ST Engineering and SP Group, today announced the launch of its new Quantum-Safe Services that will enhance its National Quantum-Safe Network Plus (NQSN+) solution offering. Built on SPTel’s ultra-low latency network, the services integrate industry-leading quantum encryption products from ST Engineering, Nokia and Fortinet to provide organisations a comprehensive security architecture that protects all layers of network connectivity. This allows organisations to leverage quantum security to enhance their security strategy and network architecture with minimal disruption.

SPTel and SpeQtral, a pioneer in quantum communications that develops quantum-secure products and services, were jointly appointed by Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority to build Southeast Asia’s first quantum-safe infrastructure, NQSN+, to help businesses tap on quantum-safe technologies. NQSN+ is part of Singapore’s Digital Connectivity Blueprint that outlines the next bound of the nation’s digital connectivity plans up to 2030. NQSN+ is envisaged to help enhance resiliency and security for the public and private sectors, especially the healthcare and financial services industries and those that own critical infrastructure, enabling them to safeguard data transmission and fortify their cyber defences against quantum threats.

Designed for compatibility with existing IT infrastructures and networks, SPTel’s Quantum-Safe Services offer a convenient plug-and-play model that is scalable to meet diverse business requirements. It is available as part of SPTel’s Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)-as-a-service offering, eliminating the need for organisations to own and manage their own QKD-enabled equipment to support the quick deployment of quantum-safe solutions that target specific security concerns.

Comprehensive Security Across All Network Layers

SPTel’s Quantum-Safe Services secure data across the physical, data link and network layers:

  • Securing the Physical Layer with Nokia’s DWDM with Encryption

Nokia’s leading-edge DWDM (dense wavelength-division multiplexing) platform has built-in quantum-safe encryption. Nokia’s technology, together with SPTel’s Data Centre Interconnect (DCI) and NQSN+ solution, enables organisations to secure their dedicated bandwidth requirements between data centres. Organisations will have full control to send network traffic at the highest bandwidth, including 100G/400G.

  • Securing the Data Link Layer with ST Engineering’s Encryptor

ST Engineering’s encryptor uses quantum-resistant techniques to secure data transmissions against quantum-based attacks, protecting sensitive data from unauthorised access and tampering. It also enables organisations to securely bridge their LAN network across multiple sites nationwide. When paired with SPTel’s Metro Ethernet service, it seamlessly integrates into existing LAN environments while maintaining secure connections at the subscribed bandwidth.

  • Securing the Network Layer with Fortinet’s FortiGate Next-Generation Firewall with Encryption

Fortinet’s next-generation firewall (NGFW) with Secure SD-WAN delivers quantum encryption on SPTel’s Quantum-Safe Network, enabling organisations to use SPTel’s Internet and/or IPVPN service to securely connect across multiple sites. This provides flexibility in network management and control in optimisation and prioritisation. This NGFW also provides a comprehensive selection of security services to combat known, unknown, zero-day and emerging AI-based threats.

“While quantum computers have not yet become mainstream, the threat of ‘harvest now, decrypt later’ cyberattacks is a significant concern. Organisations managing sensitive and confidential data need to start securing their networks against potential quantum attacks. Through our strategic partnerships with ST Engineering, Nokia and Fortinet, we can access advanced capabilities in quantum encryption technologies supported by our ultra-low latency network, to offer organisations a reliable turnkey QKD solution to help them rapidly fortify their security architecture cost-effectively,” said Titus Yong, CEO of SPTel.

“Traditional encryption methods will face growing vulnerabilities as quantum computing becomes more widespread. This underscores the need for advanced encryptors that utilise quantum-resistant techniques to defend against quantum computing threats. Through our partnership with SPTel, organisations can future-proof their data transmission against quantum computing threats while seamlessly integrating our quantum-resistant encryption technology into their current network services and maintaining operational efficiency for organisations,” said Goh Eng Choon, President of Cyber at ST Engineering.

“We’re committed to our partnership with SPTel to deliver quantum-safe networks via optical networking technology. Our low latency and highly performant optical encryption are built into our industry leading optical portfolio and will enable SPTel to offer quantum-safe high-capacity transport services. This will allow them to offer advanced quantum-safe solutions today to better compete in the finance, healthcare, government and enterprise sectors,” said Stuart Hendry, Head of Enterprise and Partner Sales for Asia Pacific, Network Infrastructure at Nokia.

Jess Ng, Country Head for Singapore and Brunei, Fortinet, said, “Fortinet is committed to advancing quantum-safe cybersecurity solutions. Our collaboration with SPTel integrates FortiGate next-generation firewalls within SPTel’s NQSN+ service offering, fortifying the defences of critical industries in Singapore. This partnership leverages our cutting-edge technology to enhance network resilience, ensuring organisations are prepared for future cybersecurity challenges. Together, we are setting a new standard in accessible and scalable quantum security.”

Choosing the Right Agency for Xiaohongshu Marketing Success

SINGAPORE, July 16, 2024 — Choosing the right marketing agency for your Xiaohongshu campaigns is crucial for achieving success in this competitive landscape. FY Ads Singapore (www.fy-ads.com), as the official overseas partner of Xiaohongshu, stands out as an ideal choice for businesses in Singapore aiming to reach Chinese consumers. Xiaohongshu, also known as Little Red Book, is a rapidly growing social media and e-commerce platform in China, making it an essential tool for brands. Partnering with FY Ads ensures that your business can effectively navigate Xiaohongshu’s unique ecosystem, optimize marketing strategies, and drive significant engagement and sales. Here’s why FY Ads is the right choice and what to consider when selecting a Xiaohongshu marketing agency:

Direct Access to Platform Resources and Support

  • Exclusive Insights and Data: A top agency, like FY Ads, has privileged access to Xiaohongshu’s exclusive insights and data, ensuring more effective and targeted marketing strategies.
  • Dedicated Support: The best agencies offer dedicated support from Xiaohongshu’s team, leading to faster issue resolution and more efficient campaign management.

Enhanced Credibility and Trust

  • Official Recognition: Choose an agency that is officially recognized by Xiaohongshu to ensure credibility and reliability in managing campaigns.
  • Preferred Partner Status: Agencies up-to-date with Xiaohongshu’s best practices and guidelines reduce the risk of compliance issues.

Optimized Advertising Solutions

  • Tailored Ad Strategies: Opt for agencies that leverage direct connections with Xiaohongshu to create highly tailored ad strategies aligned with the latest trends and platform updates.
  • Advanced Tools and Features: The right agency will have access to advanced advertising tools and features exclusive to official partners, ensuring higher campaign performance and ROI.

Priority in Algorithm and Features

  • Algorithm Advantages: Official partners may receive preferential treatment in Xiaohongshu’s algorithm, leading to better visibility and engagement for your campaigns.
  • Early Access to New Features: Agencies with early access to new Xiaohongshu features can implement innovative strategies ahead of the competition.

Comprehensive Campaign Management

  • Integrated Services: The ideal agency offers a full suite of services, from account setup and content creation to influencer marketing and customer engagement, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive campaign experience.
  • Localized Expertise: Agencies with offices in multiple countries can provide localized expertise and support, crucial for businesses in Singapore aiming to penetrate new markets via Xiaohongshu.

Strong Track Record

  • Proven Success: Look for agencies with a proven track record of successful Xiaohongshu campaigns, demonstrated by case studies showing significant engagement and sales growth.
  • Client Portfolio: A diverse portfolio of clients, including well-known brands like Marina Bay Sands, Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore Airlines, 7-Eleven, Coach, Alibaba, Song Fa Bak Kut Teh and Haidilao, highlights the agency’s experience and success in leveraging Xiaohongshu for various industries.

Introducing the World’s Coolest Commute: Fairfield by Marriott is Looking for an Aspiring Road Trip Reporter

SINGAPORE, July 15, 2024 — Do you love Japan and are craving an adventure beyond the usual tourist spots? It’s time to embark on an opportunity of a lifetime! Fairfield by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today launches a month-long search for its first-ever ‘Road Trip Reporter’, to co-develop content about the unrivaled adventures that await across Japan’s sprawling, less-traveled countryside. Open to passionate travelers worldwide, the successful applicant will enjoy a 30-day “work trip” that will involve uncovering hidden cultural and historical gems, while experiencing the comfort and warm hospitality of Fairfield by Marriott hotels, with all expenses paid and entitlements valued.

image-5022136-9856436

“Japan has grown to become one of the world’s most sought-after destinations, but beyond its bustling cities are lesser-known prefectures full of captivating attractions, culinary experiences, and untouched nature,” explains John Toomey, Marriott International’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China. “Marriott Bonvoy’s always believed in the power of travel and that’s why we’re excited to offer the opportunity for a ‘Road Trip Reporter’ to live and breathe the “Michi-no-Eki” lifestyle with Fairfield by Marriott, and reveal the uncharted adventures beyond Japan’s beaten paths.”

For travelers excited to make their passion more than just a hobby, the contract will see the ‘Road Trip Reporter’ chronicling their thrilling adventures across 14 prefectures in Japan, co-developing experiential website and social media content for the brand’s Michi-no-Eki project, highlighting experiences along the way like food and beverage recommendations, top sights and attractions to visit, Fairfield by Marriott’s offerings and more. A one-month self-drive itinerary will be thoughtfully curated by local insiders from Fairfield by Marriott, including nostalgic excursions to Kyoto’s old towns of Kinosaki and Izushi, visits to vast flower fields and wineries of Hiroshima’s Sera, and more. All-inclusive stays will be arranged at the project’s 29 newly opened hotels, situated beside roadside stations known locally as “Michi-no-Eki” and providing the ideal rest point to discover nearby national parks, UNESCO World Heritage sites and attractions.

In return for sharing their discoveries with fellow travelers, the ‘Road Trip Reporter’ will receive attractive entitlements and remuneration that include:

    • Accommodation for 30 days at Fairfield by Marriott hotels
    • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, showcasing the diverse flavors of Japan
    • Round-trip airfare
    • Curated itinerary of experiences
    • Self-drive car and reclaimable petrol fees
    • A project fee of US$5,000 for developing content and visual assets, and related usage rights
  • Excited to embark on The World’s Coolest Commute? Applications to become Fairfield by Marriott’s ‘Road Trip Reporter’ are open from 15 July to 15 August 2024.

Entries must include:

  • A recent travel story you’ve written (up to 500 words) in English with accompanying visual moments captured
  • One-liner response to this question: What motivates you to be Fairfield’s Road Trip Reporter?
  • Link to blog and/or social media pages
  • Personal details, including name, age, country of origin and confirmation of driving permit
  • Open to English and/or Japanese language writers over 18 years old

Singapore’s Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders Gathered and Recognised at The Entrepreneur Singapore 2024

SINGAPORE, July 9, 2024 — The Entrepreneur Singapore 2024, a highly anticipated entrepreneur event held at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre on 26 June 2024 has brought together more than 300 of Singapore’s most dynamic entrepreneurs and business leaders.

3H7A2243

Organised by the Association of Trade and Commerce (ATC), the event showcased Singapore’s entrepreneur landscape and meaningful relationships were forged between attendees.

Graced by Mr Shawn Huang, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Education & Finance, entrepreneurs were also recognised for their exceptional the Entrepreneur 100 Award and the Singapore 40 Under 40 Business Leaders which are administered by ATC.

Dr Geraldine Tan, Chairperson of ATC’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Committee and Women’s Committee welcomed attendees through her opening speech. Dr Geraldine Tan has shared on three focus points that entrepreneurs should embrace on and encouraged entrepreneurs to start embarking on their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) journey.

Two notable award winners were mentioned during the event.

First, Miss Loh Lay Kheng, the Director of Plaspulp Union Private Limited (“Plaspulp Union”), took on the company’s leadership as a second generation leader. Under her leadership, the company has been a leader within the industry through the adoption of automation and digital transformation. Miss Loh’s commitment to sustainable practices in the company’s operations has also led the company to greater heights.

Second, Mr Chen YanShuo, Edwin, the Managing Director of Buhlmann Singapore Private Limited (“Buhlmann Singapore”). Under Mr Chen’s leadership, he has steered Buhlmann Singapore’s financial and operational growth to reach a historical high record.

Attendees were treated to a range of performances and network opportunities amongst entrepreneurs that lasts beyond the event.

We extend our heartiest congratulations to the winners of the Entrepreneur 100 Award 2023 and Singapore 40 Under 40 Business Leaders – Class of 2024.

Football Fever: Agoda Shares Top Markets Searching For Holiday Accommodations in Germany

SINGAPORE, July 8, 2024– As football fever reaches its height in Europe this summer, digital travel platform Agoda has identified the top Asian markets searching for holiday accommodations in Germany during the continent’s popular tournament. South Korea came out on top, followed by Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and India.

The football tournament has drawn interest from travelers throughout Asia, from northern Asian markets like South Korea to India further west. The final week of the tournament will see matches being played in Munich and Dortmund, finally culminating at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. Other host cities were Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Gelsenkirchen, Leipzig, and Stuttgart, each with lively and festive fan zones, attracting football enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, “Major European football tournaments have always been a big draw for football fans, and this year is no exception. Asia’s interest in Germany for accommodation during the tournament further proves that, with travelers keen to explore more of what the host cities have to offer beyond just the games. And it’s great to see an uptake in travelers looking to Agoda to provide them with their stay, flight, and experience options.”

Agoda’s data highlights that Munich is the most searched destination from Asia, followed closely by Berlin. Hamburg, Dusseldorf, and Cologne also feature prominently, offering a mix of historical landmarks, modern attractions, and a lively sports scene.

To help travelers see the world for less, Agoda offers great value deals for travel to Europe, Asia, or elsewhere. The Agoda platform offers over four million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities.