VITIS Wine Bar & Bistro introduces festive lunch menu

VITIS Wine Bar & Bistro has a festive lunch menu available on weekdays till 31 December. 

Start with the VITIS signature small plate of chilled tomato, paired with ocean trout, and edamame and fish consomme. 

Choose between three different mains, consisting of Challans duck, line caught fish or stockyard Wagyu striploin. 

End on a sweet note with a classic dessert, chocolate and cherry. 

The venue can accommodate up to 40 people, with a maximum of 32 in the main restaurant, and up to eight in a private dining room. 

Details 

The lunch costs S$128 per person. 

Call or email to make reservations at:

VITIS Wine Bar and Bistro
7 Fraser St, #01-46/47, DUO Galleria, Singapore 189356

+65 8823 3993
vitis.sg
reservation@vitis.sg

Monday - Friday
Lunch: 12 pm to 2:15 pm (last seating)
Dinner: 5 pm to 10:15 pm (last seating)

Saturday
Dinner: 5 pm to 10:15 pm (last seating)

Closed on Sundays

Baccarat and the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore present a season of enchantment

Source: Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. Baccarat and Mandarin Oriental, Singapore collaborate to present a season of enchantment.

Baccarat, the French house renowned for its crystal creations and Mandarin Oriental, Singapore will run a festive collaboration across 29 November 2024 - 5 January 2025 featuring cocktails, afternoon tea sets, exhibits and a room package. 

Conceived as part of Baccarat's 260th anniversary with exclusive experiences across the globe, the collaboration with Mandarin Oriental, Singapore continues the successful Baccarat Cocktail World Tour with MO BAR in Q124.

Upon stepping into Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, guests will find themselves surrounded by elements in Baccarat's iconic red, which represents its passion for craftsmanship and the Christmas spirit. A Christmas tree comprising two Baccarat x Marcel Wanders 24 l and 40 l Le Roi Soleil chandeliers will showcase the allure of Baccarat crystals, complete with branches, tassels and octagons.

Accompanied with an amalgamation of red gift boxes at the lobby to the photo wall placed at the entrance of MO BAR, guests can also spot collections showcased on panelled bar shelves, pedestals and lounge tables that convey Baccarat's joie de vivre.

There will be exclusive festive cocktails at MO BAR, two designed by Kim Jung Hoo, Head Bartender at MO BAR Singapore and two crafted by Hidenori Fukuda, Head Bartender of B Bar, Tokyo. Each incorporates Christmas-sy notes, and will be served in Baccarat glassware.

A Christmas edition of an afternoon tea experience is to be launched as well. In honour of Baccarat's 260 years in craft excellence, Christmas-themed savouries and sweets will include a collaboration cake - Baccarat Gem - presented on Baccarat crystalware.

Displayed on tiered trays and wares from Baccarat, curated savouries in the Enchanted Festive Tea Soirée (S$88++ per person) include foie gras logs with Christmas berries, Grand Marnier spiked nougat de Sainte-Maure and Dungeness Crab Gâteau with xérès-infused watermelon; while the sweet spectrum features red wine granite, Moss for a green tea travel cake coated in dacquoise and the 'petit' Baccarat gem. 

The Baccarat Gem (S$18++) is a limited-edition cake available at The Mandarin Cake Shop in the shape of an octagon fashioned after Baccarat's crystals. Crafted by Mandarin Oriental, Singapore's team of pastry chefs, the cake in Baccarat's iconic red brings together luxurious flavours in every bite with rosemary cream, wild strawberry compote, eglantine coulis, and a delicate layer of Earl Grey tea mousse.

A curated selection of Baccarat products including tumblers, vases and tea sets will be available, complete with gift boxes. Those who wish to learn more about each product can scan tableside QR codes, or speak directly with Baccarat sales representation. 

In celebration of the holiday season, a room package has been introduced. Guests can obtain two nights' stay in luxurious suites, complemented by an exclusive in-room amenity, Baccarat x Mandarin Oriental afternoon tea and cocktail experiences, and a Baccarat Gift Set featuring a pair of crystal tumblers to take home.

Details

Mandarin Oriental, Singapore
5 Raffles Ave., Singapore 039797
Tel: +65 63380066

For reservations and bookings enquiries at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore visit https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/singapore/marina-bay/festive-season#baccarat .

Baccarat Boutiques Singapore
The Baccarat Boutique at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is at Galleria Level,B1-68, 2 Bayfront Avenue, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.
Tel: +65 6688 7168
Takashimaya Department Store Singapore, Basement 1, 391 Orchard Road, Ngee Ann City,
Tel: +65 6835 1252

Mandarin Oriental, Singapore hotel guests can enjoy 10% savings when shopping at the Baccarat pop-up at The Mandarin Cake Shop and Baccarat boutique at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

Hashtags: #MandarinOrientalSingapore, #BaccaratSG, #Baccarat260years, #EverythingTastesBetterinBaccarat

Take a rail journey to festivities at The Peninsula, Hong Kong

Kick off the festive season in grand Peninsula style in Hong Kong on 21 November 2024, with The Peninsula Express – Festive Extravaganza, an evening comprising of a musical performance followed by a feast in the form of a culinary festive market.

Celebrating the glamour and excitement of vintage rail travel, The Peninsula Express pays tribute to the legacy of The Peninsula Hong Kong, which has welcomed guests after a long rail journey from Europe to Tsim Sha Tsui Station, once situated across the road from the hotel. The Peninsula Express will return to the hotel this festive season for the third and final year.

Taking place in the iconic lobby of The Peninsula Hong Kong, guests for A Culinary Journey Aboard The Peninsula Express will be taken on a train journey from Beijing to Shanghai with its final stop in Hong Kong through music and dance, with a surprise appearance by a celebrity. 

Guests will step into Grand Salisbury Station, where the custom-built Peninsula Express train carriage awaits its guests for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. With its exterior painted in signature Peninsula Green, and wood panelling, vintage light fixtures and elegantly-set dining tables inside, the carriage gives diners the sense of journeying through iconic destinations inspired by The Peninsula Beijing and The Peninsula Shanghai.

The festivities will include a time-honoured tradition at all Peninsula hotels - the tree-lighting ceremony. After the ceremony, guests are invited to continue their evening with a feast featuring delights from Swiss chalet Chesa, The Verandah, Michelin-starred Spring Moon, and Imasa.

Source: The Peninsula, Hong Kong. The Peninsula Express will return to The Peninsula, Hong Kong this festive season for the third and final year.

Details

The Peninsula Express – Festive Extravaganza

21 November 2024

5:15 pm at the hotel’s forecourt

The festive performance begins at 6 pm, followed by the festive feast at 7:30 pm.

HK$10,000 per person, covering the performance, the tree-lighting ceremony, a surprise appearance by a celebrit artist, and a selection of dishes from each of the hotel's restaurants. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

For general enquiries or reservations, please contact The Lobby at +852 2696 6772, or by email at thelobbyphk@peninsula.com.

For performance enquiries or reservations, please contact The Verandah by phone at +852 2696 6766, or email at theverandah@peninsula.com.

*Reservations may only be booked on a per table basis. Price shown is the minimum charge per table, for seating up to four guests. Pre-payment is required within 24 hours upon receiving the online payment link to secure the reservation. Exclusive private or corporate charters are available upon request. The Peninsula Express seats up to a maximum of 24 guests.

More details about the festive programmes at The Peninsula Hong Kong are available on the hotel’s festive webpage at https://www.peninsula.com/en/hong-kong/special-offers/festive/the-peninsula-concert-2024

Holiday dining is also available at:

Gaddi’s 

The Michelin-starred French restaurant Gaddi’s features Chef de Cuisine Anne-Sophie Nicolas’ French haute-cuisine specialities, served together with a sophisticated wine list. 

Felix 

On the 28th floor, Chef de Cuisine Aurélie Altemaire curates a selection of seasonal flavours, complemented by creative cocktails and spectacular Victoria Harbour views over the city skyline. 

Spring Moon 

Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine and a refined Art Deco-style setting have made Spring Moon a longtime favourite. Chinese Cuisine Executive Chef Lam Yuk Ming and his culinary team present dishes to celebrate the Winter Solstice, Christmas and the New Year. 

Chesa 

This Michelin-selected Swiss restaurant offers charming ambiance reminiscent of a traditional alpine chalet. Known for its warming fare and cozy decor, Chesa features iconic dishes such as cheese fondue and raclette. 

The Lobby 

Always decorated in grand classical Peninsula style, with a picture-perfect Christmas tree as its focal point, The Lobby provides a sophisticated backdrop for guests to indulge in refined global cuisine – at breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a signature afternoon tea throughout the festive season. 

This experience is complemented by live carol performances by local choirs, creating a truly magical atmosphere. 

The Verandah 

Bountiful buffet offerings, warm service, and a relaxed ambiance combine at the holiday season with a miniature railway that is set up at the restaurant’s entrance every year. Originally designed and built by The Peninsula’s craftsmen, the mini train has become a cherished symbol of the festive season at the hotel. 

Imasa 

Japanese-food enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with a menu that includes kaiseki set dinners and osechi menus, in which each dish has is an auspicious wish for the coming year. 

Teas of Hope afternoon tea 

To celebrate the season of sharing, The Peninsula Hong Kong also invites holiday guests to enjoy Teas of Hope, featuring sweet and savoury festive delights curated by The Lobby’s Chef de Cuisine Kay Ng. Guests can enjoy the tea either at The Lobby or aboard The Peninsula Express. 

Available up to 13 December 2024 and from 27 to 30 December 2024, the Teas of Hope is priced at HK$550* per person. For each afternoon tea served, US$5 will be donated to Make-A-Wish International.

Yuletide delights

Experience the essence of Christmas at The Peninsula with a festive log cake. As with last year, this year’s log cake derived inspiration from The Peninsula Express train and is priced at HK$888 each. Orders can be placed at the hotel’s online shop.

Staying in style

Guests who stay for two or more consecutive nights will enjoy: 

- Daily buffet breakfast at The Verandah for two 

- HK$1,000 hotel credits (room guests) or HK$ ,000 hotel credits (suite guests) to be redeemed at hotel restaurants and The Peninsula Spa (treatments only) during the stay, per guestroom per night (except Imasa and The Peninsula Boutique & Café) 

- Third adult guest supplement charge of HK$ 1,100* 

- One bottle of Peninsula Champagne per guestroom per stay 

- Priority festive dining reservations for any of the hotel restaurants before 21 November 

- Priority festive dining waitlists for any of the hotel restaurants after 21 November 

- Peninsula Time – flexible check-in from 6 am and check-out time until 10 pm (blackout dates apply, including 22-25 and 28-31 December 2024 and 1 January 2025)

Booking period: Ends 30 December 2024

Stay period: From 9 December 2024 to 1 January 2025

Book now on peninsula.com, or call The Peninsula Global Customer Service Centre at +852 2910 1628 for more details.

Peninsula Festive Hamper

Each hamper is inspired by the steamer trunks that travellers once packed for round-the-world voyages. The seasonal delicacies within include The Peninsula Champagne Brut by Deutz, handmade chocolates, gingerbread cookies, Christmas cakes, smoked almonds, wasabi nuts, and duck rillettes, as well as Christmas crackers, and a Peninsula Bear with Christmas stocking. The hamper is priced at HK$3,388.

For more information, please contact the Concierge at + 852 2696 6527, or email hamperphk@peninsula.com.

The gift of Peninsula luxury

A Peninsula Gift Card lets recipients choose from a variety of signature experiences at The Peninsula Hong Kong – including dining experiences and therapeutic treatments. For more information, please visit gifts.peninsula.com/hongkong.

*All prices listed are in Hong Kong dollars and are subject to a 10% service charge.

Singtel launches Expressions Through Art showcase

Singtel has launched the 3rd edition of Expressions Through Art, a showcase aimed at raising awareness of the talents and abilities of students from special education (SPED) schools in Singapore. The exhibition featuring 37 artworks by students across all 25 SPED schools in Singapore, will be held for the first time at Gardens by the Bay. 

The artworks will be subsequently exhibited at the National Gallery Singapore and digitised versions will be displayed on the windows of six SMRT trains in December. This year’s edition features a combination of scenes from Gardens by the Bay, as well as depictions of animals and landscapes.

The campaign was kicked off by Singtel Group CEO Yuen Kuan Moon and Gardens by the Bay CEO Felix Loh. Yuen said: “Art is a powerful medium for expression, and we’re proud to be able to give these students a chance to shine through this initiative. We’re also glad to have partners like Gardens by the Bay, National Gallery Singapore, and SMRT who are helping to showcase the students’ talents in more locations so more people can appreciate the capabilities of these students, fostering a more empathetic and inclusive society.”

Singtel also supports SPED students through the Singtel Touching Lives Fund (STLF), its flagship corporate philanthropy programme. STLF has raised over S$58 M in support of the critical educational needs of children and youth with special needs across more than 20 charities, as well as for six SPED schools which offer customised education programmes. 

As a lead-up to the Expressions Through Art 2024 campaign, 10 students were given a tour of the Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay and attended an art workshop where they translated their impressions of the Supertree Grove into creative art pieces. These were among the 37 artworks featured in this year’s campaign.

Aged between seven to 18 years old, the 44 students participating in the Expressions through Art 2024 campaign used watercolour paints, coloured pencils, and markers to bring their imaginations into vivid reality.

Pathlight School Principal Linda Kho said: “We are grateful for initiatives like Singtel’s Expressions Through Art that provide a platform for students with special needs to shine. Art is a powerful medium for self-expression and enables our students to express their unique perspectives and creativity. Opportunities like these not only showcase their talents and abilities, but also inspire them to continue developing their artistic passion and maximise their potential."

Noorizan Bte Sharif Foeddin, parent of Cerebral Palsy Alliance Singapore (CPAS) School (West) student-artist Nurshaqirah Ryhana Bte Shamsha added: "Events like Expressions Through Art help to build the confidence of children with disabilities, and I am incredibly proud that the talent and hard work of my daughter have been recognised. My daughter is also excited and pleased to have had her artwork selected for the art exhibitions, and we hope to be a part of similar events in the future.”

Details

The exhibition will be held at the North Colonnade near the Supertree Grove of the Gardens by the Bay from up to 22 November 2024, followed by the National Gallery Singapore from 9 to 22 December 2024. The digitised versions will be displayed on SMRT trains on the North-South, East-West and Circle lines from 9 to 31 December 2024.

Members of the public who wish to make a contribution, can donate online via DBS iBanking, POSB iBanking or the Singtel Dash app.

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Singapore Media Festival returns from 28 November 2024

Source: IMDA. From left: Nizar Salman, Head of Events at NAS Summit; Rurusama, Singapore cosplayer and content creator; Veronica Yong, Director, Business Development and Marketing at IMDA; Yvonne Tang, Cluster Director for Media Industry Cluster at IMDA; Phillson Rajan, Head of Labs, Beach House Pictures; Sylvia Chan, travel content creator; Joyce Chua, Senior Project Manager, Asia TV and Forum & Market; Jeremy Chua, GM, Singapore International Film Festival; Paul Hendricks, Content and Marketing Manager, Singapore Comic Con.

The 11th Singapore Media Festival (SMF) will run from 28 November - 8 December 2024 with films and collaborations across its partner events: the Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF), Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF), Singapore Comic Con (SGCC), and Nas Summit Asia. Over 55,000 media professionals, leaders, talents, and consumers are expected to gather in Singapore to experience media innovations, forge deals, and present Singapore’s content.

Hosted by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), the festival unites the best of Singapore’s film, TV and our new media talent. More than 100 captivating films from 45 countries featuring fresh voices and emerging themes will be screened during SGIFF, along with a special celebration of talent from Singapore and around the globe. Building on the S$3.04 B worth of deals and partnerships generated from the festival since its inception, Singapore has been and continues to be Asia’s anchor platform to discover meaningful collaborations and expert insights with industry giants. 

In recent years, the festival has provided opportunities for new media content creators and creative professionals to learn and also present their work. At Nas Summit Asia, content creators can attend over 20 sessions by creatives and Asia-based personalities like Malaysian actor and comedian Jaspers Lai and Singaporean photographer Smile with Jeryl. 

Pop culture enthusiasts will also get to interact with more than 30 comic book artists, toy creators, entertainers and more at SGCC, such as Clio Award-winning illustrator Yuko Shimizu and Singaporean cosplayer Rurusama. 

Yvonne Tang, Cluster Director, Media Industry Cluster, IMDA, said: “Asia’s, and Singapore’s media industry in particular, have been taking the world stage by storm - staying relevant and even thrive in the fast-changing landscape. The Singapore Media Festival is a great platform for Asia’s creative talent to congregate, mingle and forge new partnerships and deals. 

"As the world continues to be excited by Asian storytelling and stories, we are here to provide the spark for people to come together to collaborate and innovate. This annual festival also highlights Singapore’s strength as a hub for world-class content and impactful collaborations, shaping the future of Asia’s media industry for a global audience.” 

This year, attendees can look forward to: 

SGIFF: Fresh voices and emerging narratives

The 35th SGIFF returns from 28 November to 8 December with over 100 films across 45 countries. SGIFF will present over 25 Singaporean and made-with-Singapore films, including Spirit World by Eric Khoo starring Catherine Deneuve, Yutaka Takenouchi and Masaaki Sakai, the award-winning Don’t’ Cry, Butterfly and historical drama-meets-monster film, Orang Ikan. 

The festival will open with psychological thriller Stranger Eyes, by Singaporean filmmaker Yeo Siew Hua. Taiwanese actor Lee Kang-sheng, who plays the protagonist in the film, will receive the SGIFF Cinema Icon Award, which recognises an Asian actor who has made an indelible mark as a creative force in film. 

“SGIFF has always been a beacon for diverse narratives and a home for uniquely Asian perspectives, all while engaging with the global film community. As we mark our 35th anniversary this year, we are dedicated to expanding that legacy, further cementing the festival’s role as a key platform for creatives, while continuing to champion voices from Singapore and around the region,” said Thong Kay Wee, Programme Director of SGIFF. 

SGCC: A blend of pop culture and cutting-edge technology

Asian and Western pop culture will assemble to turn imagination into reality at SGCC on 7 to 8 December. Pop culture enthusiasts can meet award-winning creatives like Hong Kong manhua (cartoon) artist Khoo Fuk-lung and Japan's Shimizu. Other highlights include: 

○ SGCC’s new ambassador, local cosplayer Rurusama will present a fan experience powered by 3D, augmented reality and artificial intelligence technology in collaboration with True Blue Production. 

○ Toy collectors can also look forward to the global premiere of exclusive merchandise such as: 

■  Mighty Jaxx’s exclusive Luffy XXRAY One Piece Luffy Wanted Series Treasure Gold Edition merchandise 

■ The Life Saving Figurines, a limited-edition series created in partnership with the Singapore Civil Defence Force and Accenture. 

○ There will be special food and beverage (F&B) offerings from Brewerkz, Playmade, and Beardpapa. 

○ Four new made-with-Singapore games will make their debut showcase at SGCC. These IMDA-supported titles, developed by local studios, offer uniquely Singaporean gameplay. They are: 

- A Stitch in Time by Crimson Forge

- Commonwealth by Lambdamu Games

- Find Lah! by The Doodle People, and 

- Roachman by Andas Productions. 

Additionally, gamers can look forward to a Mobile Legends community challenge organised by Mediacorp. 

"It's always exciting to bring SGCC and Creators Con to the fans. With all the content, exclusives, brands, artists and guests this year, it's the biggest SGCC yet," said Michelle Lim, CEO and Founder Generation Experience.

ATF: Discussions and pitches

Celebrating its 25th edition this year, the ATF will be held from 3 to 6 December 2024. The forum gathers industry leaders from media giants like Warner Bros. Discovery, TVING, Youku, Tencent, IMAX, and more to share their insights on the industry’s future challenges and opportunities at the ATF Leaders Dialogue and conference tracks. 

Six in-development pitches, the highest number ever at ATF, will also take place as aspiring productions vie for a chance to develop content focused on Asian-centric storytelling, revolutionary business models, and more. 

"If it’s Asia, it’s ATF – ATF is a proven trade market and conference with a curated array of networking events, content showcases, and global partnership programmes to facilitate opportunities for the next killer content. With Asia playing a bigger role on the global stage of entertainment, we look forward to connecting business executives and creators across the ecosystem to celebrate and discover the best of storytelling,” said Yeow Hui Leng, Group Project Director, Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF), RX Global (Singapore).

Nas Summit Asia: Expand new media storytelling skills

The Nas Summit Asia is back on 30 November to 1 December as one of Asia’s biggest creator events, with over 1,000 attendees and 150 companies expected to attend. Asian content creators Lai, Smile with Jeryl, and Darshen K will be speaking. Session formats include quick-fire networking or “speed dating”, as well as the “roast”, where creators workshop content with candid but humorous feedback.

MICHELIN Star Table at Grand Lisboa Palace to star Don Alfonso 1890 x L’Olivo

Source: SJM. Wrapped in Versace’s signature Baroque patterns and the sumptuous gold and red tones of Don Alfonso 1890, this MICHELIN Star Table promises an exquisite dining experience with Italian ambiance. The handcrafted terrazzo floor with rosette and flower motifs is inspired by the historic Versace Villa on Lake Como, while the bespoke furniture and Rosenthal x Versace tableware echo Versace's Asian Dream motif. Paintings from Versace's Palace have been hung on the walls, interspersed with the fashion house's signature Barocco pattern.

SJM Resorts and the MICHELIN Guide have joined forces for the 4th consecutive year to present one of Macau’s most coveted dining experiences: the MICHELIN Star Table series.

This year will see Italian mastery within Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau on 18 and 19 October, in the form of Don Alfonso 1890, the Macau outpost of the Michelin-starred, family-owned restaurant in Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi, five-course lunches, and six-course dinners.

The MICHELIN Star Table will showcase the masterpieces from three Italian culinary maestros: Chef Andrea Migliaccio, Executive Culinary Chef of Jumeirah Capri Palace, including the two Michelin-starred L’Olivo; Chef Ernesto Iaccarino, from the family running Don Alfonso 1890 in Italy; and Head Chef Federico Pucci, who helms Don Alfonso 1890 in Grand Lisboa Palace.

Chef Migliaccio is renowned for his mastery of Mediterranean cuisine and vibrant colours and bold flavours in his dishes. He said: “It is an honour to be part of this ensemble and this unique event, which also represents an exceptional twofold opportunity: on one side, we will all be sharing the overall Italian culinary tradition with our friends in Macau; on the other, we will be creating connections between the different interpretations that coexist within the Italian gastronomic heritage.”

Chef Iaccarino added: “I am very proud to have this opportunity to showcase our Italian flavours together with Chef Andrea at the beautiful Don Alfonso 1890 in the Palazzo Versace Macau. We can’t wait for our guests to enjoy the flavours of the south of Italy.” Don Alfonso 1890 in Lavello boasts one Michelin Star and a farm-to-table philosophy that ensures the freshest ingredients from an organic farm, Le Peracciole.

Head Chef Pucci also said he is honoured to participate in the gastronomic extravaganza alongside talented chefs. "We can’t wait to share our passion for food with the discerning palates, celebrating the passion, artistry, and joy of sharing great food with others,” he said.

Details

Lunch is priced at MOP1,288+ per person, with an optional wine pairing for MOP588+ per person. Dinner is priced at MOP2,288+ per person, while an optional wine pairing for an additional MOP988+ per person.

The MICHELIN Star Table presented with SJM – Don Alfonso 1890 x L’Olivo showcases the finest Italian cuisine. 

The exclusive Don Alfonso 1890 MICHELIN Star Table Package includes a night's hotel accommodation and a feast for two. Lunch is priced at MOP3,388++ per person, while dinner is priced at MOP5,788++. 

Secure your bookings though the reservation hotlines or visit https://www.sjmresorts.com/en/happenings/michelin-star-table-2024

• Mainland China: 400 842 2188
• Hong Kong: 800 960 288
• Dining General Line: +853 8881 1800

Hear from Jack White, Air, St. Vincent, Jamie xx, Deca Joins and Creepy Nuts at Clockenflap 2024

Clockenflap, Hong Kong’s biggest international outdoor music and arts festival, has shared the 1st wave of acts for this year’s event. The three-day event at Central Harbourfront will run from November 29 to December 1, 2024.

Following on from back-to-back sold-out editions in March and December 2023, the festival’s 14th edition will host a lineup topped by maverick rock icon and Sunday night headliner Jack White, legendary French electronic duo and Friday night headliners Air, acclaimed US singer-songwriter St Vincent, trailblazing UK DJ/producer Jamie xx, and British psychedelic pop-rockers Glass Animals. Details of the Saturday night headliner will be announced later.

The 2024 Clockenflap will once again feature an outdoor environment with multiple stages, top-quality F&B outlets, and must-see international, regional and local acts.

Source: Clockenflap. Clockenflap poster.

Must-sees

Fresh from the release of his 6th solo album, the one-and-only Jack White makes his long-awaited Hong Kong debut on Sunday night. Performing their 1998 debut, retro-futuristic masterpiece Moon Safari in entirety, French duo Air, which were at the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics, will headline on Friday. St Vincent is expected to be a big draw on Saturday, with a set that includes this year’s album All Born Screaming.

Trendsetters

Clockenflap is known for bringing the hottest names in music to Hong Kong, and this year is no different. One-third of Mercury Prize-winning British indie act The xx, DJ/producer Jamie xx, makes his Clockenflap debut hot on the heels of the release of his 3rd album, In Waves. Best-known for their viral megahit Heat Waves, British psychedelic pop-rockers Glass Animals arrive on the back of their 4th album, I Love You So F***ing Much. Atlanta DJ/producer Porter Robinson is jetting in to perform a high-energy live set featuring electro house and synth-pop, while genre-bending Los Angeles act Fiji Blue will captivate with a fusion of indie pop, electronica, and R&B.

The best of Japan

Meet magnetic hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts, J-Pop vocalist yama, post-rock/math rock masters toe, girl group Sakurazaka46 and indie-pop band Cody・Lee(李).

Indie trailblazers

Canadian indie-rockers Mother Mother arrive with their 9th album, Grief Chapter, while upbeat Japanese-Australian four-piece Last Dinosaurs are touring their 5th album, Kyoryu. Other indie highlights include LA duo Bubble Tea and Cigarettes, Xi’an post-punk band FAZI, London dance-punk dynamos Fat Dog, Hong Kong post-hardcore act An Id Signal and Dutch psychedelic rockers YĪN YĪN.

Regional highlights

Showcasing Taiwan’s music scene are indie favourites Deca Joins, Kaohsiung rockers Gigantic Roar and alternative rockers JADE. Fans will also get the chance to enjoy the sounds of Thai singer-songwriter Violette Wautier and South Korean guitar princess MEMI.

Electronic acts

Canadian DJ/producer A-Trak is known for serving up a blend of electro and hip-hop, and Australia’s Partiboi69's brand of ghetto house is guaranteed to get the party started. Yung Singh brings the sound of the UK new Asian underground, while Dave Clarke will demonstrate why he’s known as The Baron of Techno. There will be a special DJ and spandex set by ROBOT, where Clockenflap co-founders Jay and Mike will be welcoming Bobby Parsley to celebrate ROBOT's 25th anniversary.

Other acts confirmed to perform include Hong Kong neo-jazz act R.O.O.T and festival favourites Ibrahim Maalouf & the Trumpets of Michel-Ange.

Details

Hang Seng Credit Card Priority Booking begins at 11 am on September 24. Tickets will go on general sale at 11 am on September 27. Ticket prices remain the same as December 2023, with three-day General Admission tickets at HK$1,990 and single-day General Admission tickets at HK$1,280.

Tickets can be purchased at the official ticketing platform, Ticketflap, at https://www.ticketflap.com.

CUBED³: The three-part three party adventure in Hong Kong

On September 21, Sandy Rivera, globally known as Kings of Tomorrow, headlines CUBED³ - a new event that with celebrations across land, sea, and sky - all in one all-day and -night adventure.

CUBED³ represents the most ambitious project to date for Sunken Hong Kong and Blacklight International (BLI), whose entertainment arm specialises in large-scale public art and culture events throughout Asia. The event offers a seamless flow from day to night, combining world-class music, breathtaking views, and showcases the best of what Hong Kong has to offer. Starting at 2 pm and running until 4 am, this all-day and -night adventure gives guests the flexibility to join whenever they want.

Three beloved aspects of Hong Kong are showcased: the bustling harbourfront, the luxurious yacht life, and the vibrant rooftop party culture. Start the journey on land at AIA Vitality Park from 2 pm to 10 pm, dancing under the Hong Kong Observation Wheel. 

From there, set sail on the Vibe Yacht, cruising through Victoria Harbour while enjoying panoramic views of the city. As night falls, ascend to WAV Rooftop at Trilogy from 9 pm to midnight for a party under the stars. 

The after-party continues from midnight to 4 am at Keyz, Trilogy’s exclusive nightclub. At the helm of this experience is Sandy Rivera, the house music legend behind the timeless hit Finally. Joining Rivera are over 20 of Hong Kong’s finest DJs and live performers, including Benny Cullen, Chris Perkins, Daniel Boswarva, Eugene Tse, Juliejjun, KING LOVELY, MajorTOM, Minou, Nat Dunn, Rie Kiriiaka, and WilkinHo. Together, they will deliver an energetic, high-octane soundtrack across all three venues, ensuring that the party keeps moving and the excitement never stops. 

The Vibe Yacht will feature four unique sailings throughout the day, each hosted by one of Hong Kong’s top music labels: 

- Point Label (2 pm – 4 pm): An artistic and cultural project founded by five French music enthusiasts dedicated to promoting electronic music in Hong Kong.

- Lovely (4 pm – 6 pm): Known for its bouncy, feel-good vibes and chart-topping releases, Lovely will bring an exclusive preview of brand-new music.

Sunken (6 pm – 8 pm): A driving force in Hong Kong’s electronic scene, Sunken will curate a sunset session featuring some of the city’s best local talent.

Chaotic Pavilion (8 pm – 10 pm): This collective will deliver an immersive DJ set.

Source: Sunken Hong Kong and BLI. From left: Rivera, AIA Vitality Park, the Vibe Yacht, and the WAV Rooftop.

Details

Tickets for CUBED³ on September 21 can be booked at https://cubed3hk.com

Land + Air Pass (includes entry to AIA Vitality Park and WAV Rooftop)

• HK$250 (Sunken members)
• HK$280 (Early bird) 
• HK$300 (General admission)

Boat Pass Add-On

HK$328 (choose from four different sailing times)

Canon PhotoMarathon in-person, in Singapore

Canon Singapore has announced the return of the Canon PhotoMarathon five years on from the last in-person occasion. The event returns on 28 September 2024 with the theme Every Lens, Every Age.

Canon explained that this year’s Canon PhotoMarathon is all about celebrating diversity and creativity in every shot.

With two-hour submission windows for each theme, the competition promises to challenge participants to think on their feet and push their creative boundaries.

“We’re thrilled to see the Canon PhotoMarathon return, and we can’t wait to witness the creativity that emerges from this event. It’s not just about taking photos; it’s about preserving moments, telling stories, and connecting with a community that shares a love for capturing the world through a lens. If you have a love for photography, make this #yourCanonEventSG,” said Andrew Koh, VP and Head of Singapore Operations Group, Canon Singapore. 

Source: Canon. Canon PhotoMarathon poster.

Participants have the chance to win prizes worth a total of S$47,000, with the top three prizes in both the Open and Student categories featuring Canon’s latest photography gear. In the Open category, the grand prize is the EOS R6 Mark II Kit paired with a PIXMA TS8370a printer—with a combined value of over S$4,000. In the Student category, young photographers will stand a chance to win an EOS R8 Kit with a PIXMA E4570 printer, valued at more than S$2,500, as the first prize. 

Details

Registration is open at https://www.yourcanonevent.sg/

Thailand’s biggest Dota 2 tournament is the final ESL One for 2024

ESL FACEIT Group (EFG), the leading esports and video game entertainment company, today announced ESL One Bangkok 2024 powered by Intel, a US$1,000,000 Dota 2 tournament that will take place in Bangkok, Thailand, from December 9 to 15. 

Source: EFG. Poster for ESL One Bangkok 2024 powered by Intel.

Featuring twelve of the world’s best Dota 2 teams, this year marks the first time the global Dota 2 tournament has been hosted in Thailand. The tournament heralds the return of ESL One powered by Intel to the Asia-Pacific region after a successful iteration in 2023. Over 335,000* concurrent viewers tuned in online last year to watch Azure Ray win in front of a sold-out crowd in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“We’ve had Bangkok and its amazing fans on our shortlist for some time, and are super excited to finally have the opportunity to be able to bring world-class Dota to this passionate fanbase,” said Tobias Fjellander, Product Manager, Dota 2 at ESL FACEIT Group. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Dota 2 fans from Thailand, Singapore and the region to Bangkok this December, for what’s set to be the biggest Dota 2 tournament ever hosted in the country.”

ESL One Bangkok 2024 powered by Intel will kick off with open qualifiers from November 11-14, followed by closed qualifiers on November 15-17. Eight teams from the closed qualifiers, along with four teams from the ESL Pro Tour leaderboard, will advance to the group stages, played out across December 9-11. The best eight teams from the group stages will advance to the playoffs, with the final three days of the playoffs held live in Royal Paragon Hall, Bangkok, December 13-15.

Details

Tickets to watch the ESL One Bangkok 2024 playoffs across December 13-15 are now available, with ticket prices starting at S$61 for three-day tickets. Premium add-on tickets, featuring an event goodie bag containing an event tee, mousepad and collectible coin, cost S$58. 

In addition to watching the playoffs live, ticket holders will also gain access to additional activities, including exclusive signing sessions with pro teams, a Dota 2 cosplay showcase featuring local cosplayers, and access to partner booths.

Fans can purchase tickets via https://esl-one.com/bangkok/.

Visit pro.eslgaming.com/tour/dota2/ for updates.

*According to escharts.com

Savills: Dubai is the No. 1 destination for executive nomads

The UAE has taken the top two spots in the Savills Executive Nomad Index this year. Dubai has retained its lead position for the 2nd consecutive year, while UAE capital Abu Dhabi moved from 4th place to 2nd this year. 

The Savills Executive Nomad Index ranks 25 destinations for long-term remote workers. All either have a digital nomad visa programme, or equivalent, or in the case of the US and European countries, are already part of a large economic bloc that allows free movement of people for living or work. 

They offer favourable climates year-round, a high quality of life and have established prime residential markets. Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi rank highly in several categories; however, Dubai has a large advantage in air connectivity, which places it ahead of Abu Dhabi overall. 

Dubai International, its main airport, is the world’s busiest for international passenger traffic. The recently announced Al Makhtoum airport expansion in Dubai will make it the largest airport in the world upon completion. 

“Dubai and Abu Dhabi are incredibly appealing to executive nomads, because they offer everything you need to thrive both personally and professionally, from modern infrastructure to high quality of life,” said Andrew Cummings, Head of Residential Agency - Middle East at Savills. 

“We’ve seen a real focus on creating a lively business environment where there are plenty of opportunities to grow, build networks and make lifelong connections.”

Source: Savills. The Savills Executive Nomad Index 2024 includes Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Bali as destinations.

“The more common digital nomad is symbolised by the young backpacker; however, executive nomads tend to be older and more likely travel with family in tow,” said Kelcie Sellers, Associate Director, Savills World Research. 

“This places a greater emphasis on the quality of life aspects that these top international locations can provide, such as safety and access to healthcare or education facilities. For these individuals, both physical networking and digital connectivity are important and must be accounted for. 

“Executive nomads are more likely to rent, and put an emphasis on extra space and proximity to local amenities. Prime rents have risen, on average, by 5% in the last year across the 25 locations monitored in the Savills index, with some urban markets seeing increases of more than 15%.” 

Also new to the 2024 Index is Bali in 12th place, the 1st and only Southeast Asian city in the index.

Declining employee engagement in hybrid work models: Zoom

Zoom has released Navigating the Future of Work: Global Perspectives on Hybrid Models and Technology, a survey* which has found that the majority of organisations in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC) are embracing flexible working arrangements, with 84% of organisations adopting either a hybrid (58%) or remote (26%) working model. 

Launched at Zoom's EX Summit 2024 in Asia Pacific, the study found that productivity is now the top priority for organisations. Eighty-seven percent of leaders in APAC considered increasing productivity to be the biggest consideration when determining the best working style for their company, surpassing sentiment in North America (NA, 86%) and 81% in Western Europe. 

The study further found that employees feel most productive in hybrid settings, with 83% of employees in the region agreeing they get more work done in a hybrid/remote setting than in-office/onsite. Zoom noted that having the right technology in place to keep the workforce connected, regardless of workers’ physical locations is therefore critical. 

Respondents revealed that many APAC companies are still experimenting with the various types of hybrid models to find their best fit. Notably, scheduled hybrid (27%) and flextime hybrid (19%) have emerged as the most common workplace models in the region, with another 13% of organisations adopting other kinds of hybrid workplace models organised around roles, locations, and outcomes. In fact, 97% of APAC leaders say they have made their workplaces more flexible in the past two years. 

Source: Zoom infographic (PDF). The most common workplace model in APAC is 'scheduled hybrid', where specific days are spent at remote locations and other days at the office, followed by 'flextime hybrid', where the employee divides their time between remote working and the office on a more variable schedule.

On the downside, more needs to be done to engage employees. Six in 10 leaders in the region report a decline in employee engagement attributed to hybrid models. 

“Workplace flexibility is not only becoming increasingly commonplace in the APAC region, but more diverse in itself — ranging from flextime to location, role, and even rotation-based models,” noted Ricky Kapur, Head of Asia Pacific, Zoom. 

“Leaders today are faced with a new challenge of finding the best-fit hybrid model while keeping up with the evolving expectations of a multi-generational workforce and the impact of rapidly-advancing technologies like AI.” 

In order to prepare for the future of work, the study revealed that organisations need to improve their current tech stack. More than eight in 10 employees (81%) agree that the tools and technology their organisation currently uses for remote work needs improving, highest among the other regions surveyed (NA: 79%; Western Europe: 65%). 

Generative AI has already become a key tool to support employee productivity and overall experience in the hybrid era. Eighty-five percent of APAC leaders believe that generative AI has made their workforce more productive, and 69% of employees in the region strongly or slightly agree that “generative AI makes it easier to do my job. 

APAC organisations recorded the highest use of meeting transcripts/summarisation (53% in APAC, 40% in NA, and 38% in Western Europe), and chatbots (59% in APAC, 52% in NA, and 58% in Western Europ” 

However, significant barriers to generative AI adoption for employees in APAC still remain, as 70% believe that generative AI has a high learning curve. Over six in 10 (63%) are not yet comfortable with generative AI. More than half (55%) are concerned that generative AI will negatively impact their job/position. 

Moving forward, increased education on the benefits, use cases, and how they can mitigate risks must be done before teams can fully unlock the true value of AI for their workforce, Zoom said. 

“While our study shows that APAC leaders generally recognise the productivity benefits that adopting AI at work can bring to their teams, many are not utilising AI to their full potential. As organisations seek to reduce friction in the transition to hybrid ways of working, AI is a critical tool at their disposal to help employees collaborate better and feel more connected to each other. 

"Beyond direct productivity benefits, leaders should look toward exploring more AI use cases to engage, inform, and connect employees. This will be key to building and maintaining company culture amidst changing workplace dynamics,” added Kapur. 

Even as hybrid becomes the dominant work model, 77% of leaders in APAC say it is likely that their organisation will change its workplace model in the next two years. Globally, this figure sits at 75%. 

Ultimately, building a successful, future-ready workplace requires organisations to continuously adapt to employees’ feedback and evolving preferences. Having the right technology in place that can adapt and evolve with the organisation at the same time, including AI tools that are both scalable and right-fit, is also a key piece to the puzzle, Zoom observed.

*The Future of Work survey and the IT Leadership survey were global studies conducted by Reworked, a global community of employee experience, digital workplace, and talent management professionals, on behalf of Zoom. The companies surveyed more than 600 IT and C-suite leaders and nearly 1,900 knowledge workers across the globe including 604 in APAC, exploring their views on different workplace models, productivity levels across models, the impact of generative AI on work, and other topics related to the future of work. 

Markets in APAC included Australia, India, Japan, and Singapore. Data was collected online, all questions were required, and results were collected anonymously. Employer survey dates: April-May 2024; Respondents: 624. Employee survey dates: April-May 2024; Respondents: 1,870.

Singapore employees feeling challenged at work: Employment Hero

Source: Employment 2024 Hero. Poster for
the 2024 Wellness at Work
Report.

Employment Hero's 2024 Wellness at Work Report* has found that despite ongoing efforts by employers to provide a healthy workplace for their employees, the majority still do not address providing mental health and wellbeing support.

The report, which polled 1,018 Singapore employees, found minimal improvement in burnout levels, with 61% of employees feeling burnt out in 2024 compared to 62% in 2022. This underscores that employers have not done enough to manage employee burnout over the past two years, the people, payroll and benefits software provider said. 

One of the possible reasons for this stagnation is that a large proportion of employees reported that they do not have access to essential wellness services, such as on-site health assessments, mobile health clinics, comprehensive benefits management, physical fitness and wellness programmes, and mental health support initiatives, Employment Hero suggested. 

Only 45% of employees stated that their employer provides access to confidential counselling. These gaps in wellness support and programmes contribute to the persistence of high burnout levels among employees, Employment Hero said. 

The group with the highest rates of burnout is Gen Z, with 68% reporting feeling burnt out at work in the past three months. This is followed by 65% of Millennials, 54% of Gen X, and 36% of Baby Boomers. 

Employment Hero CEO and co-founder Ben Thompson said: “The findings of our 2024 Wellness at Work Report underscore the urgent need for employers to prioritise mental health and wellness programmes. It's clear that current efforts are insufficient, as evidenced by the persistent high levels of burnout and stress, particularly among younger employees. 

"Employers must take proactive steps to provide comprehensive mental health support and wellness initiatives to foster a healthier, more productive workforce. Addressing these issues is not just about improving employee well-being, but also about ensuring sustainable business success in the long term."

Nearly four in 10 (39%) Singaporeans indicated that they had felt stressed at work a few days a week in the last three months, with 36% feeling stressed a few days a month. Again, Gen Zs are struggling the most, with 58% feeling stressed at the workplace a few days a week, compared to 44% of Millennials, 29% of Gen X, and 20% of Baby Boomers. 

“Dealing with stress at work is a common challenge that many employees face, and addressing it effectively is crucial for both personal well-being and professional performance,” shared Sudesh T, Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Manulife Asia. 

“Flexible working arrangements, remote work options, and flexible hours so employees can better manage both personal and professional responsibilities can significantly reduce stress and improve overall job satisfaction.” 

Highlights include:

● Nearly three in 10 (27%) employees said financial stress and the rising cost of living is the biggest cause of stress 

● Under half (47%) of all employees are on track with their financial goals 

● About six in 10 (58%) employees don’t think their workplaces are doing enough to support rising living costs 

Explore 

Download the 2024 Wellness at Work Report report at https://employmenthero.com/sg/resources/wellness-at-work-report/ 

*Employment Hero’s 2024 Wellness at Work Report is based on an analysis of 1,018 Singaporean employees, focusing on mental health, career wellness, and financial wellbeing. To participate in the survey, respondents had to be employed in any capacity (full-time, part-time, casual, fixed term) and not be business owners. The survey collected responses between April 12 and May 1, 2024. Similar research was also conducted in Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.

Tata Communications: Gap between customer experience ideals and reality

Source: Tata Communications landing page. Customer interaction hurdles, with the top hurdle being a lack of collaboration across teams. A new customer experience (CX) and customer interactions survey by Harvard Business Review Analytic Services in association with Tata Communications has uncovered the biggest hurdles organisations face in improving customer experience.

A new customer experience (CX) and customer interactions survey by Harvard Business Review Analytic Services in association with Tata Communications has revealed that relatively few organisations think they consistently deliver positive customer interactions.

The finding is part of a December 2023 global pulse survey, in which 264 members of the Harvard Business Review audience, all familiar with their organisation’s strategy and approach to customer interactions, shared how their companies manage customer interactions and their future plans to transform customer experiences. 

While 94% acknowledge it is very important that organisations consistently deliver positive customer interactions for business success, 38% said their organisation is very effective at consistently delivering them. In another paradox, 91% of respondents agreed that making interactions more useful for customers can optimise an organisation’s efficiency. However, 49% of respondents did not feel their organisation has the right technology in place to support strong customer interactions.

The survey revealed key roadblocks that organisations need to address to create quality customer interactions:

- Nearly half (48%) of respondents cited a lack of collaboration across teams as a challenge, which could be hindering a unified customer journey

- Roughly four in 10 (39%) identified that siloed or disorganised customer data likely makes it difficult to personalise experiences

- Over a third (35%) believed the use of different digital tools or dashboards across the organisation is a challenge - this issue can create friction for both customers and staff

Tata Communications also said the survey highlights how each customer interaction is a building block that shapes their overall perception and CX of an organisation or brand. Individual interactions, positive experiences, and business outcomes are inextricably linked.

Mauro Carobene, VP and Global Head – Customer Interactions Suite, Tata Communications said: “Brands encounter multiple challenges when trying to deliver excellent customer experience, the most prominent being siloed data, lack of collabortion across departments, and working with multiple partners across different channels. Brands that work on individual touchpoints, rather than seeing each interaction as part of a journey, lack a 360-degree view of their customers.”

The study further revealed that making cross-channel customer interactions more seamless, consistent and personal is paramount, with 97% of respondents saying their organisation is focusing on one or more improvements to CX over the next 12 months.

Alex Clemente, MD, HBR Analytics Services, said: “This research underscores that the experience a company provides is often as important as its products or services in terms of customer satisfaction and loyalty. Enhancing the customer experience isn’t just the job of customer service and marketing teams; every team involved with the customer should have the capability to collaborate and contribute.

"Technology can be a big help in driving exceptional customer interactions across multiple channels. With the right tools, organisations can analyse customer data more effectively, personalise interactions, make that data accessible across the organisation, and create a seamless experience for both customers and employees.”

Explore

Read the full report at https://www.tatacommunications.com/harvard-business-review-analytic-services/

Kramnik to play Alcántara in rematch on Chessarena.com

Source: World Chess. Kramnik (left) will replay José Alcántara (Jospem, right) in August 2024.

World Chess, a chess organisation committed to enhancing the global mass market appeal of chess, will host Clash of Claims 2, a chess rematch after the first Clash of Claims between Vladimir Kramnik and José Alcántara ended in controversy. The event will feature live commentary from prominent figures in the chess community and interactive segments for viewers.

Kramnik, the 14th World Chess champion, has been actively sharing evidence of what he believes indicates cheating in online chess tournaments. With the ease of access to software that could help players cheat, the results of some online tournaments have led to accusations of deception.

Following Kramnik’s claims, a hybrid approach was suggested in June this year with Kramnik playing against Grandmaster José Alcántara, a well-known online chess player, in a three-day chess event. This first Clash of Claims event was held in Madrid and was a hybrid mix of in-person board games and online matches via the Chess.com platform.

Due to technical issues with Chess.com, World Chess has invited the players to return for Clash of Claims 2 in London from 19 - 21 August 2024, hosted on its Chessarena.com platform. This rematch will have stringent physical and online anti-cheating methods in place to address previous alleged shortcomings. Chessarena.com is the only online platform that has an anti-cheating engine approved by FIDE, the international governing body of chess.

Chessarena.com plans to leverage this event to highlight new platform features, including the introduction of in-game emoticons, and to run a Clash of Claims 2 promotion for new subscribers.

Ilya Merenzon, CEO of World Chess said: “We are so excited to welcome these two renowned players, once again, to the stage to battle it out in London.

“World Chess and the FIDE Arena are looking forward to resolving once and for all the fair play allegations raised by Kramnik, and to enhance the reputability of online chess tournaments.

“We are confident Chessarena.com will provide advanced anti-cheating measures and a superior platform from which the games will be hosted.

“Online chess is going through a major transformation right now. We are possibly witnessing the ultimate way to address all anti-cheating allegations — by taking an online dispute to the physical board, marking a truly hybrid approach.”

Niyama Private Islands Maldives organises Fitness Week in September

Niyama Private Islands Maldives will hold its first-ever Fitness Week 21 – 28 September 2024. The retreat will be hosted by celebrity trainer Shaun Stafford, who is a two-time World Fitness champion, founder of City Athletic London, manager of lifestyle brand GHOST, and a pro-fitness model.

Fitness Week offers a balance of working hard and playing hard, training and recovery. Whether a fitness fanatic or first timer, the programme promises to push each individual to attain their personal best.

Each day of the retreat begins with a group workout led by Stafford, followed by one-on-one coaching sessions on two of the afternoons. Participants will also undergo an epigenetic test, and based on these results, as well as an in-depth consultation, Stafford will draw up a personalised six-week training programme to continue at home.

Downtime includes a whole day of recovery with stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, massage and Beverly Hills IV therapy at Drift by Niyama, plus a movie under the stars. Throughout the retreat, guests will also enjoy unlimited use of the spa’s hydrotherapy circuit, mingling over cocktails on the beach, and three-course dinners in the treetops at Nest or in the jungle at Tribal.

Niyama’s twin islands of Play and Chill are the ideal setting for such a retreat. There are long stretches of beach; perfect waters; a flood-lit tennis court; and PUMP, the gym with a view to inspire.

Details

The Fitness Week retreat is priced at US$2,250 nett per person, excluding accommodation, and is open to a maximum of 10 participants, with bookings required by 4 September 2024. There is also a programme for accompanying partners who wish to simply relax at US$430 nett per person. Make a reservation at niyama.com/offers/fitness-and-wellness-week-with-shaun-stafford or email reservations@niyama.com.

80% of Singapore service professionals expect customer service to contribute more revenue in 2024

A report from Salesforce has found high expectations for customer service to contribute more revenue in 2024. With AI enabling greater personalised customer experiences, service teams are well-poised to maximise upselling, cross-selling and customer retention opportunities to drive revenue, the company said. 

The company recently released the new State of Service report, sharing insights from over 5,500 service professionals across 30 countries — including 100 from Singapore. The report covers the priorities, challenges, and strategies shaping customer service. It includes how service teams tap AI and data to increase revenue, efficiency, and customer satisfaction amid rising customer expectations.

According to the Singapore Business Federation’s National Business Survey, revenue growth (76%) and reducing costs (62%) were among the top priorities for business leaders this year, amid rising economic pressures and uncertainties. 

Insights for Singapore include:

Revenue generation 

The trend of viewing service as a revenue driver instead of a cost centre is accelerating, and service teams are investing in scaling up. This year: 

- Nearly eight in 10 (77%) service professionals expect more budget

- Seven in 10 (71%) service professionals expect more headcount 

AI to boost efficiencies

To scale service without sacrificing quality, professionals are increasingly turning to AI. 

- Nine in 10 service professionals are using or evaluating AI

- Nine in 10 service professionals plan to increase AI investments this year. The top three service use cases for AI: automated summaries and reports, customer-facing intelligent assistants, and service responses

- The majority of service professionals (97%) with AI say it saves them time 

Escalating demands

As customer expectations rise, service agents are feeling the squeeze. 

- Roughly two thirds (65%) of service professionals expect a higher case volume next year

- Eight in 10 service professionals (81%) say customers are more demanding than they used to be 

Data capabilities boosted 

Service professionals are stepping up their data integration efforts to fuel human agents and AI systems. 

- More than seven in 10 (72%) service professionals say better access to data from other teams would improve support 

- Nearly nine in 10 (87%) service professionals are increasing investment in data integration this year

“Service teams cannot afford to miss the moments in the overall customer journey to build stronger relationships and loyalty. Generative AI will allow agents to provide a smoother and more personalised customer service experience, freeing up time to focus on relationship building. At the same time, data and AI is enabling service teams to demonstrate their ability to drive revenue growth through greater efficiency and upsell activities,” said Gavin Barfield, CTO and VP of Solutions at Salesforce ASEAN. 

“AI is helping customer service agents be more efficient by reducing administrative tasks, which frees up time for them to focus on delivering personalised customer experiences and revenue generation. This will fundamentally shift the role of service teams within businesses from cost centres to profit centres.”

Explore

Download the State of the Service report

*Salesforce conducted a double-anonymous survey of over 5,500 service professionals between December 8, 2023, and January 22, 2024. Respondents were sourced from 30 countries and roles including service operations, service agents, mobile workers, service managers/directors, and service leadership/head of service. Additional methodology and survey demographic details can be found in the report.

Mid-autumn elegance at Hai Tien Lo, Singapore

Source: Pan Pacific, Hai Tien Lo. Baked and snow skin mooncake selection (left), Four Treasures Baked Mooncakes Premium Gift Set (right).

This Mid-Autumn Festival, Hai Tien Lo (海天楼) presents an array of elegant creations encased in red or gold boxes adorned with signature Hai Tien Lo motifs.

The limited edition Four Treasures Baked Mooncakes Premium Gift Set can be bundled with a tea set or champagne. The gift set, complete with a Hai Tien Lo leatherette bag, is an ideal gift for business associates.

Hai Tien Lo's No. 1 tea baked mooncake is back by popular demand, this time with the addition of melon seeds to complement the delicate flavours of the signature tea. Other baked mooncakes available this season include the new caramel walnut cocoa baked mooncake, classic single yolk white lotus paste Baked Mooncake, and ever popular double yolk white lotus paste baked mooncake.

For snow skin lovers, Hai Tien Lo has the bestselling mao shan wang durian snow skin mooncake and a new flavour: mango pomelo snow skin mooncake.

Hai Tien Lo’s mooncakes are available for pre-order from 7 June to 8 August 2024 and purchase from 9 August to 17 September 2024 at panpacificsingapore.oddle.me and eshop- ppsin.panpacific.com. Orders can be collected from 9 August to 17 September 2024 between 10 am to 8 pm at the hotel’s mooncake booth, located on Level 1 of Pan Pacific Singapore. 

Alternatively, delivery can be arranged via panpacificsingapore.oddle.me. Delivery is free for orders of S$150 and above, while orders below S$150 will incur a fee that varies by location.

Orders from 7 June 2024 till 31 July 2024 are eligible for an early bird discount of 30% for mooncakes other than for the mao shan wang durian snow skin mooncake (25% discount) and Premium Gift Box (25% discount).

Details*

 

Price per box of four traditional baked mooncakes

- Hai Tien Lo No. 1 tea with melon seeds 海天一号瓜子白莲蓉月饼: S$95

- Caramel walnut cocoa 焦糖核桃可可月饼: S$95

- Single yolk white lotus paste 单黄白莲蓉月饼: S$95

- Double yolk white lotus paste 双黄白莲蓉月饼 $99

 

Four Treasures Baked 四喜烘皮月饼: S$98, featuring 

- Hai Tien Lo No. 1 tea with melon seeds

- Caramel walnut cocoa

- Single yolk white lotus Paste 单黄白莲蓉月饼

- Double yolk white lotus paste 双黄白莲蓉月饼

Bundled with a teapot set and a packet of Hai Tien No. 1 tea leaves: S$188

Including a bottle of Taittinger Brut Réserve champagne: S$288

Price per box of four snow skin mooncakes:

- Mango pomelo 芒果柚子冰皮月:  S$95

- Mao shan wang durian 纯猫山王榴莲冰皮月饼: S$108

*All prices are inclusive of 9% goods & services tax.

Southeast Asian universities rise in the Times Higher Education university rankings

Tsinghua University in mainland China has topped Times Higher Education’s (THE's) Asia University Rankings 2024, retaining its No. 1 spot for the 6th year in a row. In second place is Peking University, which is 2nd for the 5th year in a row. 

Taking third place is National University of Singapore (NUS), which has also maintained its position for the 5th consecutive year. Besides NUS, Singapore has Nanyang Technological University in the ranking. The university up one place, from 5th to 4th this year. 

Meanwhile, mainland China’s representation in the top 10 has increased to five, up from four last year. The advances come at the expense of Hong Kong universities, with one fewer institution in the top 10 against three last year.

Japanese universities had significantly higher scores in this year’s research quality pillar due to the addition of a new research influence metric. Institutions such as the University of Tokyo moved from 8th last year to 5th, and Kyoto University jumped from 18th last year to 13th.

Top 10 universities in THE’s Asia University Rankings 2024

1 Tsinghua University, mainland China (2023 1st)

2 Peking University, mainland China (2023 2nd)

3 National University of Singapore, Singapore (2023 3rd)

4 Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (2023 5th)

5 The University of Tokyo, Japan (2023 8th)

6 University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong (2023 4th)

7 Shanghai Jiao Tong University, mainland China (2023 tied for 9th)

8 Fudan University, China (2023 tied for 9th)

9 Zhejiang University, China (2023 12th)

10 Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong (2023 6th)

Source: Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings 2024 

Seventeen of Thailand’s 19 universities either moved up or maintained their position in this year’s ranking. The country’s top three institutions are: Chulalongkorn University, which is ranked 117; Mahidol University, ranked 139; and King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, ranked 192. All rose from 201–250 rankings last year.

While most of Indonesia’s 24 universities maintained their position in the ranking there are two notable exceptions. The University of Indonesia jumped up from 251–300 last year to 201–250 this year, and Universitas Gadjah Mada shot up from 401–500 last year to 351–400 in 2024.

Seventy more universities are ranked this year than last, totalling 739 this year. This is a 10.5% increase, from 31 countries/regions, while a further 388 are listed as having reporter status*. Many of the newly-ranked institutions are in west or south Asia.

Phil Baty, Times Higher Education’s Chief Global Affairs Officer said: “We have tracked the impressive rise of China in the global rankings for two decades now, but what we can clearly see now is that the rising tide in Asia is lifting all boats.

“While China’s leading universities now compete at the very top of the world rankings, our data shows a strengthening across Asia, where a healthy competition, more collaboration, more investment in research and university capacity and more internationalisation is driving up performance. It all amounts to hugely positive tectonic shifts in higher education from the west to the wast, with real excellence demonstrated in East Asia and Southeast Asia in particular and well beyond.

“Another significant highlight is the growth of other regional powerhouses including India, Japan and increasingly Thailand, all of which show a continuous improvement in Asian countries’ higher education systems, which must be seen against the backdrop of an increasingly highly competitive higher education environment in the region.”

This is the 12th edition of THE’s the Asia University Rankings. Japan had the most universities in the rankings with 119 entries, followed by India with 91, up from 75 last year. The country’s highest-ranked institution is the Indian Institute of Science at 32nd place, up from 48th. In 3rd place is mainland China with 86 universities. 

Turkey has 75 universities, up from 61 last year. The top two – Koç University and Middle East Technical University – share 69th place, while Istanbul Technical University rose from joint 149th to 92nd. Iran is the fifth-most represented country with 73 universities.

Details

The methodology behind the Asia University Rankings is based on the same framework as the World University Rankings, but the weightings are recalibrated to reflect the priorities of Asian institutions. Check the Asia University Rankings 2024 methodology. THE revised and improved its methodology for its World University Rankings 2024, adding new metrics relating to research quality and patents. The methodological change has highlighted performances from universities in research that were not previously completely visible.

The addition of the new patent metric, part of the industry pillar, allows the transfer of knowledge from academia to industry to be measured. Nineteen Asian universities scored 100 on this metric, with four institutions each from Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea achieving this. 

*Reporter status means that although the institution submitted data, it did not meet THE’s eligibility criteria to receive a ranked position.

Taste The World Dining Series aims to show how food is a universal language

Private travel specialist Gourmet Trails has launched the inaugural Taste The World dining series, running from 4-26 May 2024. The festival demonstrates how food truly transcends boundaries and acts as a conduit for understanding and common purpose.

Taste The World highlights the essence of world cuisines in partnership with Appetite, Hashida, CURE, Canchita, Esquina, Ummi Beirut, and ANJU. Profits from the event will go towards the United Nations World Food Programme.

Opening Day Special: Dialogue Over A Lunch Journey with Michelin-starred Chef Ivan Brehm and Gourmet Trails founder Pamela Tan

Chef Brehm of Nouri and Appetite, known for his ‘crossroads’ cooking, will be hosting a lunch journey together with Tan on 4 May 2024. Join a group of no more than 14 guests and enjoy three snacks, four courses, dessert, and a choice of drink (S$300/pax).

Taste The World: Hashida

Source: Gourmet Trails. Preparing sushi at Hashida.

Dive into an unorthodox exploration of Japanese cuisine at Hashida, led by celebrity chef Kenjiro ‘Hatch’ Hashida. Chef Hashida brings to the table an interpretation of sushi omakase that is deeply rooted in personal reflection and uninhibited artistic expression.

Lunch and dinner sessions are available at S$220 and S$450 each respectively. Available on 10 May and 16 May for dinner service, and on 15 May and 18 May for lunch.

Taste The World: CURE

Explore the depths of modern Irish cuisine at CURE, from its produce to its history, through a meal. Michelin-starred chef Andrew Walsh offers variations of his seasonal menu on 9 May for dinner service (S$300 each) and on 10 and 11 May for lunch (S$220 each).

Taste The World: Canchita

Chef couple Daniel and Tamara Chavez will bring together the best of Peruvian and Mexican flavours in a six-course dinner, complete with a demonstration of ceviche preparation - a signature dish in Peru - and mole poblano (a Mexican stew) at Canchita, Dempsey Hill. Available on 4 May and 23 May for dinner service at 7.00pm ($220/pax).

Taste The World: ESQUINA

A six-course dinner awaits guests at ESQUINA, led by Barcelona-born chef Carlos Montobbio. The one-night-only event includes a Gran Reserva and Reserva Especial worth S$600 a bottle. Available on 15 May at 7 pm (S$220 per person, including wine pairing).

Taste The World: UMMI Beirut

At UMMI Beirut, where guests will be treated to a time-limited set menu. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Greg Malouf and his protégé chef Ali Assaf, UMMI will serve elevated classics in a glamorous setting that will transport guests to the city of Beirut. 

Start with a welcome drink before being served six hot/cold mezze and freshly-made Lebanese bread. Guests will be able to select their choice of main before ending the meal with UMMI’s signature kunafeh dessert. Available from 4-26 May for dinner service at S$180 each.

Taste The World: ANJU

In Tanjong Pagar, ANJU brings modern Korean flavours to guests with a four-course dinner, including a dish created especially for Taste The World guests. Available on 7 May for a minimum of two diners.

Details

Tickets for Taste The World range from S$180 to S$450. Purchase at https://tastetheworld.sg/

Restaurant	Date / Time	Ticket price
Appetite (Crossroads cuisine)	4 May, 12 pm	Lunch S$300
Hashida (Japanese sushi omakase)	15 May, 12 pm 18 May, 12 pm	Lunch S$220
	10 May, 7 pm 16 May, 7 pm	Dinner S$450
CURE (Irish fine dining)	10 May, 12 pm 11 May, 12 pm	Lunch S$220
	9 May, 7 pm	Dinner S$300
Canchita (Peruvian and Mexican with chef demonstrations)	4 May, 7 pm 23 May, 7 pm	Dinner S$220
Esquina (Spanish dinner)	15 May, 7 pm	Dinner S$220
Ummi Beirut (Lebanese gourmet casual)	4-26 May, flexible ticket	Dinner S$180
ANJU (Korean gourmet casual)	7 May, 7 pm	Dinner S$180 each (minimum two diners)