Showing posts with label SG60. Show all posts
Showing posts with label SG60. Show all posts

25 July 2025

Celebrate SG60 with Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree

Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree joins Singapore’s 60th birthday celebrations with a room package with S$60 nett room credits, buffet dinner at Planter’s Shed and exclusive gifts at the Banyan Tree Gallery. Nestled within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the resort provides convenient access to the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and Rainforest Wild Asia.

SG60 collection

Source: Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree. Facade.
Source: Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree. Facade.

To honour six decades of progress and resilience, Banyan Tree Gallery’s SG60 Collection features commemorative Blooming in Harmony gift sets adorned with six Vanda Miss Joaquim orchids, symbolising strength, beauty and Singapore’s enduring spirit. The mini set (S$60) features a crystal stone diffuser and aromatherapy oil from the Banyan Tree Spa, with the full set (S$160) also providing an upcycled cassava wireless charging tray.

Dining accessories showcasing the orchid motifs are also available, with linen table runners (S$260), linen table placemats (S$160 for four), and ceramic coasters (S$60 for four) on offer. The collection is available from now to 31 August. 

Buffet dinner at Planter’s Shed 

The resort’s all-day dining destination, Planter’s Shed, invites guests to celebrate Singapore’s Diamond Jubilee year with a dinner buffet at S$60++ per adult (usual price S$68++ per adult), available only from 4 to 10 August 2025. 

The buffet showcases of local signature flavours such as Planter Shed’s laksa and big prawn noodle, brought to life through live cooking stations. Known for its selection of local and international cuisine, Planter’s Shed promises a relaxed yet immersive dining experience surrounded by lush greenery.

SG60 room credit

From 1 to 31 August 2025, guests staying at Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree will receive a S$60 nett resort credit per room, per stay. This credit can be enjoyed across the resort’s signature experiences—dining at Forage and Planter’s Shed, treatments at the Banyan Tree Spa, or at Banyan Tree Gallery. Book from now to 31 August 2025.

“Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree is proud to be part of this national celebration,” said Glen Cook, GM.

“From revitalising spa experiences and exclusive keepsakes to interactive nature walks, we offer a truly unique way to celebrate Singapore’s 60th birthday, surrounded by the beauty of mother nature.”

Details

Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree
60 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729979

Reserve at https://www.banyantree.com/singapore/mandai-rainforest-resort-by-banyan-tree/sg60-in-the-wild, or email PlantersShed-MandaiRainforest@banyantree.com for reservations at Planter’s Shed.

20 July 2025

Canon PhotoMarathon 2025 showcases visual stories for SG60

The 19th edition of Canon PhotoMarathon 2025, one of Singapore’s highly anticipated photography events, welcomed over 600 photography enthusiasts. Organised by Canon Singapore, it was themed One Click, One Vibe and aims to promote photography as a vital visual arts form by celebrating innovation, storytelling and artistic expression through the lens. 

This year’s competition saw submissions across three mystery themes – Home, Vintage and Vibe(s) – unveiled at intervals during the day. Participants raced across the island, conceptualising, shooting and submitting each photo within a two-hour window per theme for a chance to win Canon products worth around S$50,000 in total. 

“As Singapore’s photography scene continues to evolve, we understand what photography enthusiasts need and endeavour to continue supporting them in telling their creative stories. Canon PhotoMarathon has grown from a competition into a vibrant showcase of creativity, diversity and technical excellence that fuels the photography community in Singapore. 

"One of the themes this year reflects the values of SG60 and serves as a reminder of the everyday lives and spirit of the people in Singapore,” said Andrew Koh, Senior VP and Head of Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore.

Mark Teo, a Commercial and Action Sports Photographer and a third-time judge of the Canon PhotoMarathon shared: “It is always inspiring to see how different people interpret the same theme. Each year, the standard just keeps rising. This year’s themes were trickier, prompting participants to think outside the box in order to differentiate themselves from the crowd. Clean composition, good lighting and clear relevance to the theme really made the winning entries stand out.” 

Canon Singapore has also continued its partnership with APSN, a social service agency that provides special education, vocational training and employment support services for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities. Through this collaboration, Canon seeks to unite individuals through photography — a universal art form that knows no boundaries. 

This year was no different as students from APSN were invited to participate in the student categories. This is reflective of Canon’s philosophy of kyosei (共生) – living and working together for the common good, and empowering individuals of all abilities to excel in harmony.

“Beyond encouraging students to express their creativity and build confidence, the Canon PhotoMarathon reflects our school’s values – I Can, I Want, I Will – and motivates them to believe in themselves. Most importantly, the event fosters inclusivity by empowering individuals with special needs to become active contributors of society. Through platforms like this, we not only showcase their talents but also inspire the broader community to celebrate their achievements,” said Muhammad Faris, CCA Arts Coordinator, APSN Delta Senior School. 

The Canon PhotoMarathon 2025 winners: 

 

Open categories

Student categories

 

Theme 1: Home

 

1st prize: Kenneth Chia

2nd prize: Dongli Zhang

3rd prize: Samuel Sze

1st prize: Ryan Yeo

2nd prize: Chen Xi Teo

3rd prize: Isaac Sin

 

Theme 2: Vintage

1st prize: Ahmad Iskandar Abdullah

2nd prize: Irfan Djorhanaen

3rd prize: Mohd Safuan Salahudin

1st prize: Keller Seah

2nd prize: Dionne Pang

3rd prize: Alvaro Vincent Wijaya

 

Theme 3: Vibe(s)

1st prize: Hui Min Lee

2nd prize: Rita Chang

3rd prize: Farha Patel

1st prize: Rewan Teh

2nd prize: Bryant Bong

3rd prize: Keller Seah



Wayne Kwan, an educator who has joined over 11 editions said: “I first participated in the Canon PhotoMarathon in 2012. Photography is my way of capturing memories, and I enjoy the thrill of the hunt for unique angles. This year is extra special as my wife and son have joined me in this year’s PhotoMarathon, turning this event into a meaningful family experience built upon our shared love for the hobby.”

De Long Goh, 58 years old, engineer and long-time participant of 10 years, shared, “Every year brings something new, reconnecting with friends, exploring different subjects and challenging myself to think creatively about what to shoot. Some themes can be difficult to interpret, but that is exactly what makes the event so rewarding – it pushes me to improve my photography skills every year.”  

Home Open category first prize winner:

Source: Canon. The winning picture in the Open category for the theme Home.
Source: Canon. The winning picture in the Open category for the theme Home.


Kenneth Chia, 39 years old, engineer and first prize winner of the Open category for the Home theme said: “I was very surprised to win the first prize, and my hands are still shaking. When I think of home, I think of my 17-month son and all the things that I treasure the most. 

Once the theme was announced, I went back to my HDB flat to capture what was most important to me. My kid is home. This image of my child was taken against the flag which embodies Home, a symbol of our shared identity.”

Aaron Low, Photo Director and one of the judges said: “The Canon PhotoMarathon really brings the community together by forming lasting bonds through a shared passion for photography. To me, the most important part of photography is storytelling, and a strong photo should convey a clear message that resonates with many. Composition and the overall impact of the image, beyond technical details, are crucial. The winning photos comprised these elements and turned out outstanding.” 

Celestia Tan, Fashion Photographer and also a judge said: “Canon PhotoMarathon offers a unique platform for photography enthusiasts to explore, experiment and have fun. For me, the true magic of photography lies in capturing a moment and bringing a vision to life. The second theme, Vintage, was probably the most challenging for participants, where many adopted a literal interpretation due to the time constraints. The most exciting part of this competition is seeing how participants interpreted these themes, capturing diverse stories and unique perspectives through the lens.”

Launched in 2003, the Canon PhotoMarathon is designed to inspire and provoke creative expression by pushing participants to think beyond conventional boundaries. With mystery themes, tight timelines and an open invitation to all levels of photographers, participants race against the clock in a test of creativity and quick thinking to capture fresh, unique perspectives that bring each theme to life.  

The themes encourage photographers to explore new ideas, experiment with different techniques to tell stories. This fosters a vibrant community where creativity flourishes, and diverse voices come together to redefine the art of photography.

Beyond Canon PhotoMarathon 2025, photographers can engage in a range of Canon-led activities aimed at nurturing Singapore’s photography scene. Activities include immersive workshops and guided shoots that offer valuable opportunities for both emerging and experienced photographers to sharpen their skills, expand their creative horizons and receive mentorship from seasoned professionals to elevate standards of photographic excellence in Singapore. 

15 July 2025

Celebratory flavours for SG60 at Marina Bay Sands

In honour of Singapore’s 60th birthday, Marina Bay Sands invites guests to embark on a culinary journey that honours the nation’s diverse heritage. This August, the integrated resort will spotlight local flavours through exclusive menus and seasonal specials at restaurants across the property.

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer

Black Tap’s Singapore-exclusive National Day CrazyShake (S$23++) returns. A tribute to bandung, the classic rose and milk beverage that many locals love. Available from 1 to 31 August, the pink CrazyShake is decked in patriotic colours of the Singapore flag, complete with red and white star sprinkles on a vanilla frosted rim, a slice of red and white cake, whipped cream, crescent icing cookie, red sprinkles, and a cherry on top.  

Indulge in the Asian black pepper burger (S$24++), combining Asian spices with a prime beef patty glazed in black pepper sauce. Available from 1 to 31 August, the burger is topped with shaved onions and scallions on toasted buns and served with fries. 

Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay 

Mark Singapore’s 60th birthday with a limited-time four-course set menu that blends local flavours with British sophistication available from 8 to 10 August for both lunch and dinner.

To begin, the chilli crab arancini delivers a nod to the iconic local dish, featuring golden-fried risotto balls infused with sweet, spicy chilli crab sauce, complemented by a green goddess sauce for a burst of herbaceous freshness. 

For the main course, diners may choose from several options like the signature sliced beef Wellington, served with mashed potato and honey-roasted carrots. For a vegetarian option, the soy-glazed aubergine, paired with bang bang sauce and a crispy tofu salad, delivers bold flavours. Bang bang sauce typically features mayonnaise, vinegar, sweet chilli sauce and sriracha.

The meal concludes with a tropical reinterpretation of bombe Alaska, the kaya coconut bombe Alaska. Layers of kaya gelato, coconut sorbet, soft sponge and torched Italian meringue come together in a decadent finale. 

CUT by Wolfgang Puck

In celebration of National Day, one-Michelin-starred CUT by Wolfgang Puck unveils a three-course lunch menu that reimagines local favourites with a refined touch (S$48++ per person; available from 12 pm to 2 pm).

The experience begins with an amuse-bouche featuring crabmeat kueh pie tee. Guests can select two main dishes, including the mapo steam egg paired with minced beef and Sichuan pepper, or sambal sting ray with yellow basmati rice. 

For those seeking tradition, nasi lemak is offered, together with steamed beehoon with braised beef tendons. End with cendol cake, featuring light pandan chiffon sponge alongside gula melaka cremieux, coconut mousse and sweet corn ice cream.

KOMA Singapore

KOMA Singapore's specials from 8 to 10 August include the chilli crab slider (S$28++) - king crab and cucumber layered within mantou buns and dressed in chilli crab sauce, as well as the Japanese Wagyu fried noodle (S$38++), featuring Japanese Wagyu beef stir-fried with capsicum and bean sprouts. 

From 1 to 10 August, both lunch and dinner services will feature a dessert omakase (S$88++), showcasing a selection of Southeast Asian-inspired sweets. Highlights include gianduja bao with hazelnut-infused steamed buns, ondeh ondeh with coconut, pandan and gula melaka, and coconut Sentosa featuring coconut mousse, mango and pineapple. 

Local favourites are reimagined, from kaya toast to kopi o’ tiramisu and mao shan wang cheesecake wrapped in kunafa. Gulab jamun, teh tarik bonbon, biskut dahlia, kuih makmur and kueh lapis complete the lineup.

Maison Boulud

From 8 to 10 August, try the foie gras fried rice (S$42++) featuring wok-fried jasmine rice enriched with foie gras. The dish is finished with mushrooms, garlic chips, and finely chopped chives, plus a touch of truffle soy. 

Complement the experience with the durian “Royale” soufflé (S$22++), crafted with mao shan wang durian purée. Served warm, the soufflé is paired with a coconut sorbet. 

Mott 32

For a limited time, guests can enjoy the restaurant’s signature applewood-roasted Peking duck, renowned for its crispy lacquered skin and fork-tender meat, at a celebratory S$88 (usual price S$148++). The dish takes over 48 hours to prepare before being roasted to perfection and expertly carved tableside. 

Available only with advance bookings for groups of four or more, it will be available from now till the end of August, to be served during designated dinner slots from Monday to Wednesday.

Origin + Bloom

Origin + Bloom gets into the patriotic spirit from 4 to 10 August with tribute to Singapore’s hawker heritage and childhood favourites.

Among the savoury highlights is the white cut chicken sandwich (S$15 nett), a sophisticated twist on the beloved Hainanese staple, with poached Sakura chicken between milk buns, finished with a swipe of ginger-scallion relish. The satay peanut butter (S$8 nett) takes grilled chicken and elevates it with crispy shallots and a spiced peanut caramel, a rework of satay sauce. 

Dessert lovers will be drawn to the rainbow toast (S$12 nett), a nod to the colours of traditional ice cream bread, reimagined with pandan chiffon and layers of cempedak and bandung crémeux. The ice kacang (S$12 nett) is transformed into an intricate multilayered dessert, featuring azuki bean cake, white corn mousse, and a cendol gula melaka filling. 

Other standouts include the kueh bahulu (S$12 nett), infused with Tahitian vanilla Bavarian cream and acacia honey, and the dragon’s treasure (S$8 nett), which pairs red dragon fruit purée with Greek yoghurt cream. 

RISE 

Available up to 31 July for both lunch and dinner, a celebratory menu presents an elevated interpretation of traditional local favourites. Guests are encouraged to come on National Day (9 August), where they will be able to enjoy the full suite of dishes. 

Till 17 July, the first rotation offers heritage classics with deep local roots. The beef rendang features tender cuts of beef slow cooked in a rich coconut gravy infused with toasted spices. For those who favour bold and spicy fare, devil’s curry stands out with its blend of chilli, vinegar, and aromatics. 

From 18 to 31 July, the second rotation introduces prawn paste chicken, crisp golden wings marinated in fermented shrimp paste, as well as butter chicken, grilled chicken simmered in a creamy spiced tomato-based sauce. To end, the gula melaka chiffon cake combines airy sponge with caramel-like palm sugar notes. 

All six dishes will be served on 9 August. Lunch is available at S$128++, and dinner at S$148++. 

The Club 

Celebrate Singapore’s 60th birthday with a National Day set menu at The Club. Available for one day, 9 August, the two-course experience (S$35++) pairs a mocktail with a choice of one starter and one main.

Starters include chicken satay, featuring tender, grilled skewers marinated in aromatic spices and served with peanut sauce, rice cakes, and cucumber slices.

For mains, the freshwater prawn laksa offers a refined twist on a local classic, served with whole, succulent prawns. Guests who prefer smoky, charred flavours can indulge in wok fried carrot cake, featuring crispy radish cake cubes stir-fried with garlic, eggs, and preserved radish.

Complete the meal with the Lazy Daisy mocktail, a concoction of cherry tomato, strawberry purée, fresh lemon juice, and basil tea, balanced with a dash of black pepper and saline. 

Waku Ghin

Culinary legends Chef Tetsuya Wakuda and Chef Sun Kim walk down memory lane on 1 August at Waku Ghin’s special four-hands collaboration with Meta

Waku Ghin presents a deeply personal collaboration between Chef Tetsuya Wakuda and Chef Sun Kim of two-Michelin-starred Meta this August. Ever since Chef Sun honed his craft under Chef Tetsuya at Sydney’s Tetsuya’s, their culinary paths have been deeply intertwined. 

Now, for the first time since those formative years, the two chefs reunite in the kitchen in an evening that promises an elegant menu that reflects their shared devotion to seasonality, precision, and place. 

Available only on 1 August, the menu (S$588++ per guest) reflects the chefs’ culinary identities and their shared home in Singapore. Chef Sun brings a modern Korean sensibility shaped by his grounding in European techniques, while Chef Tetsuya draws on a lifetime of refined, produce-driven cooking informed by his Japanese heritage and decades in Australia. 

Seating is limited and guests are encouraged to reserve early. 

Source: Marina Bay Sands.
Yardbird's Hainanese chicken chop.

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

Feast on flavours close to home as Yardbird Southern Table & Bar brings their own spin on Singapore’s heritage classic, the Hainanese Chicken Chop. 

Available only on 9 August, this National Day special reimagines the iconic local dish with a 24-hour brined boneless chicken thigh, fried to golden crispness, dressed in a maple sweet and sour sauce, and served with Southern slaw, sundried tomatoes, petit pois, and golden house fries. 

Reservations

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer: marinabaysands.com/restaurants/black-tap.html 

Bread Street Kitchen: marinabaysands.com/restaurants/bread-street-kitchen.html

CUT: call +65 6688 8517 or visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/cut.html

KOMA Singapore: e-mail koma.reservations@marinabaysands.com 

Maison Boulud: marinabaysands.com/restaurants/maison-boulud.html 

Mott 32: marinabaysands.com/restaurants/mott32.html 

Origin + Bloom: marinabaysands.com/restaurants/origin-and-bloom.html 

Rise: marinabaysands.com/restaurants/rise.html 

The Club: call +65 6688 5568 

Waku Ghin: marinabaysands.com/restaurants/waku-ghin.html

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar: marinabaysands.com/restaurants/yardbird-southern-table-and-bar.html