Singtel offers more support to accelerate AI adoption among Singapore SMEs

- New programme to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) move from AI experimentation to real-world implementation 

Source: Singtel. An AI.dea training scenario.

Singtel Singapore has launched AI.dea — an AI business transformation programme, developed in partnership with SIM Academy to help SMEs in Singapore accelerate AI adoption and unlock new opportunities for productivity, innovation and growth.

As AI moves from experimentation to real-world deployment, many businesses continue to grapple with the complexities of implementation, Singtel said, observing that while AI has proven to be a powerful driver of productivity and growth, adoption among Singapore SMEs remains relatively low. 

While digital adoption among SMEs in Singapore has grown significantly in recent years, Singtel said that many businesses continue to face challenges in fully realising value from new technologies, particularly in complex areas such as AI.  

According to the Infocomm Media Development Authority’s (IMDA's) Singapore Digital Economy Report 2025*, only 14.5% of SMEs have implemented AI solutions, compared to 62.5% of larger enterprises — a wide competitive gap.  

AI.dea aims to address this gap by making AI accessible, practical and secure for local businesses. The programme will equip SMEs with the capabilities to integrate AI into their operations and compete more effectively in an increasingly digital economy. To boost adoption, eligible SMEs will receive up to 90% in funding from SkillsFuture Singapore.  

Ng Tian Chong, CEO of Singtel Singapore, said, “AI has quickly become a key driver of business transformation, but many organisations are still figuring out where to even begin. Singtel Singapore’s own journey has shown that success with AI requires more than just technology — it takes the right capabilities, governance and mindset. 

"With AI.dea, we are bringing these lessons to SMEs, helping them to adopt AI applications before committing to full-scale deployment so they can realise tangible business outcomes.”   

Ho Seong Kim, CEO of SIM Academy added: “As Singapore advances its National AI Strategy, SMEs — the foundation of our business ecosystem — must be equipped to participate meaningfully in this transformation. As the selected learning partner for this programme, we leverage our expertise in applied, outcome-driven learning to help SME leaders build in-house capabilities, develop actionable adoption strategies, and implement AI with confidence to drive tangible business outcomes.” 

AI.dea is designed to help SMEs overcome common barriers to adoption, including limited in-house expertise, uncertainty around implementation, and concerns around data security and governance.

Through a structured, hands-on approach, participants will design, build and validate real-world use cases tailored to their business needs.

Participants will benefit from:

· Hands-on application: Design and test AI use cases through guided proof-of-concept development

· Expert guidance: Learn from practitioners with experience in scaling AI across organisations

· Governance and security: Build capabilities in AI governance, data protection and risk management

· Strategic roadmap development: Define AI ambition and develop a clear, actionable adoption plan

Advancing SME digital transformation 

The AI.dea programme complements Singtel’s broader suite of SME-focused initiatives:

· TikTok Masterclass: A brand-building and e-commerce enablement programme that helps SMEs to strengthen their digital presence, connect with customers more effectively, and capture growth opportunities in the digital economy.

· Cyber Protect: A tripartite initiative by Singtel, Enterprise Singapore and IMDA to bolster SMEs’ cyber resilience through workshops, curated learning resources, and subsidised cyber solutions, enabling businesses to identify risks, adopt stronger cyber hygiene practices and better protect themselves against evolving cyber threats.

· Cyber Elevate: A training programme which provides cyber risk audits, resilience workshops, and mentorship to help SMEs prepare, detect, respond to, and recover from cyberattacks at heavily-subsidised rates, with support from law firm Drew & Napier and incident response firm Blackpanda as consultants.

· Defence Against Cyber Scams: Developed for large enterprises to upskill and reskill their employees to be better able to identify, combat and prevent scams.

· SPEED: A 15-month initiative aimed at helping SMEs decarbonise through education, energy-efficient technology deployment and continuous improvement strategies. The programme is designed to enable SMEs to go digital and achieve environmental goals at the same time.

As a SkillsFuture Queen Bee, Singtel plays a pivotal role in enabling enterprises – especially SMEs – to upskill, digitalise and innovate. Its end-to-end solutions – spanning mobility and connectivity, to cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT) and collaboration tools – are tailored to evolving business needs. 

Details

The programme fee is S$15,000 (before GST), with up to 90% funding available for eligible businesses under the Enhanced Training Support for SMEs programme, supported by SkillsFuture Singapore.

To qualify, companies must:

· Be registered and incorporated in Singapore

· Have at least 30% local shareholding by Singapore citizens or permanent residents (PRs) 

· Have an annual sales turnover not exceeding S$100 million or an employment size of fewer than 200 employees

Businesses interested in the programme can register their interest at https://www.singtel.com/business/smb/solutions/ICT/ai-dea

*Singapore Digital Economy Report (SGDE) 2025

Mastercard initiative makes going outdoors more welcoming to people with autism

Source: Mastercard. From left: Julie Nestor, Executive VP, Marketing & Communications, Asia Pacific; Mastercard, Paridhi Tandon (SAAC); Linda Tay, Senior Director of Programming, Gardens by the Bay; and Bernard Chew, CEO, St Andrew’s Autism Centre.

Mastercard has launched Time for Acceptance in Singapore, an initiative that makes retail, dining and outdoor spaces more welcoming for people with autism. For many persons with autism or sensory sensitivities, and their caregivers, uncertainty about the environment can make going out more challenging. Sudden noise, unclear layouts or even feeling judged or encountering impatience from members of the public can quickly turn everyday moments, from ordering food and waiting in line to asking for help, into points of stress. 

The initiative, developed with St Andrew’s Autism Centre (SAAC), brings together nine organisations across retail, dining and community spaces to introduce practical changes for persons with autism and their caregivers. These include clearer information, more consistent service cues, better-trained frontline staff, dedicated quieter sessions and sensory-friendly menus to help make visits easier to navigate.

Julie Nestor, Executive VP, Marketing & Communications, Asia Pacific, Mastercard said that days can be planned, but not environments. “Time for Acceptance is about changing that by introducing practical changes that businesses can implement now, from clearer information to better prepared frontline staff. Mastercard hopes this initiative will encourage more organisations across Singapore to join and help make everyday experiences more inclusive,” she said.

The initiative is launching across 47 locations in collaboration with nine organisations, with more expected to join. More than 220 frontline staff have been trained ahead of launch to better support persons with autism and their caregivers.

Each organisation will introduce changes suited to its own environment and visitor journey. These range from wayfinding support and quieter sessions to staff training and more inclusive dining tools, helping persons with autism and their caregivers know what to expect before and during a visit.

For example, Commonwealth Concepts is piloting staff training and clearer, more supportive service including at The Marmalade Pantry, Baker & Cook and Swissbake. At Gardens by the Bay, the Quiet Morning programme allows individuals on the autism spectrum to experience the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest before the public opening. 

Starbucks Singapore is also participating through Frasers Property’s inclusive wayfinding pilot across seven stores, helping customers navigate malls and find stores more easily. 

To support families beyond individual visits, Mastercard and SAAC have developed a directory of autism-friendly spaces to help persons with autism and their caregivers discover participating locations and better plan outings in advance. 

Mastercard and SAAC are also developing a series of online training modules for frontline staff and participating organisations. Delivered in consultation with SAAC’s Centre of Advocacy and Public Education, these modules cover topics such as understanding autism, communication, sensory differences, routines and social interaction. 

The training is designed to help businesses build confidence in supporting persons with autism through clearer, more consistent practices and thoughtful interactions. 

“Real acceptance starts with the willingness to make accommodations that help persons with autism and their caregivers feel more confident in everyday spaces,” said Bernard Chew, CEO of St Andrew’s Autism Centre. 

“Through Time for Acceptance, we are working with Mastercard and participating partners to turn lived experience into practical tools and guidance that equip organisations to take meaningful steps toward more inclusive practices. We invite more businesses to join us in making inclusion part of everyday life, alongside many others who are already committed to creating more inclusive spaces.”

Mandai Wildlife Group, steward of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, will offer a special menu at the official launch event at Crimson Restaurant in Bird Paradise, featuring Mastercard’s Sensory Notes. The programme helps persons with autism or sensory sensitivities order more confidently.

Agatha Yap, CMO, Mandai Wildlife Group, added: “Crimson Restaurant at Bird Paradise is a flamingo-themed dining experience offering breathtaking views of an aviary and birds like macaws taking flight. We want every guest to feel welcome, and through our participation in Mastercard’s Sensory Notes programme, we are piloting how clearer information about what to expect, ingredients and flavour profiles can be incorporated into our menus. 

"We hope to learn from this collaboration and make the dining experience even more comfortable and enjoyable – particularly for visitors with autism and sensory sensitivities. It’s a small but meaningful way to make our spaces more accessible for everyone.”

Time for Acceptance builds on #AcceptanceMatters campaign, Mastercard’s autism inclusion campaign launched in Singapore in 2024 to raise awareness of hidden disabilities, including autism. The new initiative shifts from awareness to implementation by focusing on practical changes businesses can make in day-to-day operations and customer interactions. 

Participating organisations include: 

Amped Trampoline Park

Amped Trampoline Park runs dedicated weekly sessions for neurodivergent children, with reduced music and announcements, lower capacity, access to a quiet room, and trained staff. As part of Time for Acceptance, these quieter sessions help create a more welcoming play experience for families and reflect the park’s long-running commitment to more supportive environments for neurodivergent children. 

Nicole Sparkes, Director & Owner, Amped Trampoline Park said: “At Amped, we have seen how much difference a calmer, more considered environment can make for neurodivergent children and their families. We hope Time for Acceptance encourages more businesses to make simple but meaningful adjustments so more families can feel welcome, safe and included.” 

Commonwealth Concepts 

Commonwealth Concepts is piloting inclusive service practices across 17 outlets, including The Marmalade Pantry, Baker & Cook and Swissbake. At launch, more than 50 frontline staff will undergo training developed with St Andrew’s Autism Centre to support persons with autism with greater care, patience and empathy. This includes using simple, direct language, allowing more time for ordering, and responding calmly in high-stress situations to help create lower-stress dining experiences.

Said Betty Tan, Group Head, Commercial Strategy and Partnerships, Commonwealth Concepts: “Inclusion should be felt in everyday moments, including something as simple as dining out with confidence and ease. Through Time for Acceptance, we are equipping our teams with practical skills to serve persons with autism and their caregivers with greater patience, clarity and care across our restaurants.”

Frasers Property Singapore 

Frasers Property Singapore continues to strengthen its Inclusion Champions programme across its malls to better support shoppers with diverse needs, including individuals on the autism spectrum, persons living with dementia, and their caregivers. To date, it has engaged 37 retail brands and trained over 300 frontline staff. This includes more than 110 Dementia Go-To Points across participating tenant outlets, as well as Calm Hours across 81 outlets. 

The organisation plans to onboard 20 additional brands this year in addition to expanding its efforts through ongoing enhancements. 

Commented Adrian Tan, MD, Retail, Frasers Property Singapore: “Our participation in Mastercard’s Time for Acceptance campaign reflects our commitment to advancing inclusion through partnerships. By working alongside like-minded organisations, tenants, and communities, we amplify our impact and shape our malls into welcoming second places that support everyday life.” 

Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is participating in Time for Acceptance through its Quiet Morning programme, where individuals on the autism spectrum can experience the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest one hour before opening to the public, with reduced noise, minimal announcements, and lower visitor density. 

Since its introduction in 2024, Quiet Morning has supported over 1,200 persons with autism and their caregivers. In collaboration with St Andrew’s Autism Centre, visual and written guides were developed to help visitors better prepare for their visit. 

Staff and volunteers were also trained to better support and engage persons on the autism spectrum. An online sensory map is also in the pipeline, providing real-time information on sensory conditions such as noise, lighting and crowd levels, while highlighting sensory-friendly routes across the Gardens. 

Linda Tay, Senior Director of Programming, Gardens by the Bay commented: “As a people’s garden, we believe in inclusivity and that the beauty of nature should be accessible to everyone. Through specially curated programmes like Quiet Morning, we provide a calm and conducive environment for persons with autism to enjoy what Gardens by the Bay has to offer. 

Time for Acceptance is a meaningful programme, and we are glad to be part of this journey to foster greater understanding and inclusion.” 

I’mable (by SG Enable) 

I’mable, a public education initiative by SG Enable, supports efforts to move inclusion from awareness to everyday practice. It works with organizations to implement practical adjustments such as staff training, clear communication, sensory considerations, and flexible service approaches, helping to create more supportive everyday environments for persons with autism and their caregivers.

Observed Edward Chew, Senior Director, Employment and Lifelong Learning Group, SG Enable: “Inclusion begins with actions that go beyond intention. We are encouraged to see Time for Acceptance help move inclusion from awareness to everyday practice, and we hope it inspires more organisations to create environments where persons with autism and their caregivers feel respected, understood and welcome.”

King Living

King Living is focused on inclusive customer service practices, covering all its showroom design consultants and customer service staff. The initiative focuses on ensuring a consistent and welcoming customer experience across consultation and purchase touchpoints. 

Stated Ili Ibrahim, Regional Retail Manager SEA, King Living: “At King Living, we believe every customer should feel welcome, respected and at ease throughout their experience with us. Through Time for Acceptance, we are formalising inclusive service practices across our Singapore showrooms and hope this helps encourage more brands to make inclusion part of everyday customer experience.” 

Mandai Wildlife Group 

Mandai Wildlife Group is supporting Time for Acceptance with a sample menu at Crimson Restaurant in Bird Paradise featuring Mastercard’s Sensory Notes.  

First piloted at the 2026 Australian Open, Sensory Notes helps diners understand what to expect before ordering by describing dishes in clear, literal terms — including texture, taste intensity, preparation and presentation. It is designed to reduce uncertainty around food and dining, which can be a barrier for some persons with autism. 

While a showcase for now, it offers a practical example of how food and beverage operators can take steps toward more inclusive dining experiences. The initiative complements Mandai Wildlife Group’s broader efforts to make the precinct a more welcoming and accessible destination for autistic visitors and their families. 

SAFRA

Employees across all seven SAFRA clubs have been learning more about autism through workshops conducted by St Andrew’s Autism Centre since March 2026.

Yap Mong Nah, Deputy CEO of the Club Management & Engagement Group at SAFRA, commented: “Our seven clubhouses are popular places where national servicemen bring their families, including family members with autism. By providing opportunities for our employees to gain a deeper understanding of how persons with autism may interact and experience their surroundings differently, we aim to create an even more welcoming and inclusive environment at our clubs.”

Starbucks Singapore

Starbucks Singapore is participating in Frasers Property’s Inclusion Champions programme as part of an inclusive wayfinding mapping pilot. The initiative is currently implemented across seven stores — Century Square, Hougang Mall, The Centrepoint, Waterway Point, White Sands, Northpoint City and Eastpoint Mall. As part of the pilot, Starbucks is introducing in-store navigation support to help customers find stores within malls more easily and navigate ordering more clearly.

Additional measures include calm shopping hours within selected malls and dedicated in-store spaces that serve as dementia go-to points.

Ruth Yam, Head of Commercial, Starbucks Singapore stated: “At Starbucks, we want every visit to feel welcoming and easy to navigate. Through Time for Acceptance and our wayfinding pilot with Frasers Property, we hope to help." 

In Singapore, more than one in 100 children are diagnosed with autism.  

Explore

Browse the sensory-friendly spaces directory and training resources for Time for Acceptance, and find out how your organisation can join at https://www.saac.org.sg/timeforacceptance

SHARP launches the safety-first AQUOS wish5s

- Safety-first smartphone enhanced with elegant design, smarter AI and immersive audio 

- Featuring new navy and copper metallic design, AI-powered imaging with Shadow Removal and 8way audio

- Trusted durability, long battery life and built-in SOS features

 

SHARP, the consumer technology specialist, has launched the AQUOS wish5s, a smartphone that prioritises everyday
safety and usability. The latest model introduces an elegant metallic design, AI-powered imaging with Shadow Removal and 8way audio, while continuing to deliver durability, long battery life and built-in SOS security features. 

Source: SHARP. Key visual for the Aquos wish5s.

The AQUOS wish5s builds on the AQUOS wish5, the first smartphone series to feature a vibration-activated SOS security function, alongside an AI-powered call assistant and US military-grade toughness. The smartphone retains the distinctive “free curve” design supervised by the Miyake Design studio, which has been carried over from the previous model due to its strong reception. The softly-rounded form fits comfortably in the hand and is now paired with a refined metallic texture, available in Navy and Copper. 

The AQUOS wish5s is equipped with an approximately 6.6" display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, delivering a fluid viewing experience. Paired with a large 5,000 mAh battery and an Intelligent Charge function to optimise charging behaviour, it supports extended streaming, browsing and gaming throughout the day. 

Users can enjoy AI-powered imaging capabilities that enhance everyday photography. An approximately 50.1-megapixel rear camera, powered by SHARP’s proprietary ProPix lite engine, enables clear and vivid captures of night scenes and portraits. It automatically detects scenes and selects the optimal shooting mode, while AI Shadow Removal reduces unwanted shadows in close-up shots such as food and helps minimise reflections when capturing images through glass. 

In addition, the smartphone has built-in 8way audio technology, delivering a more immersive listening experience when used with wireless or over-ear headphones. By simulating sound from multiple directions, users can enjoy a wider and more realistic soundstage.

The AQUOS wish5s further supports IPX9* waterproof performance. It is capable of withstanding high temperatures of up to 80°C and high-pressure water exposure. It also complies with US Department of Defense procurement standards, MIL-STD-810H, for waterproof, dustproof and shock-resistant performance, including resistance to drops on concrete**. 

A vibration-activated SOS security alert triggers a loud alarm and automatically contacts pre-registered contacts with location information when the device is shaken, even when stored in a bag. In addition, the AI-powered call assistant helps detect and block suspicious calls.

It features up to 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of ROM, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor. MicroSD cards of up to 2 TB are supported. 

Details 

The AQUOS wish5s is available exclusively via SHARP Singapore’s online channels, including sharp.com.sg, SHARP Lazada and SHARP Shopee, at a recommended retail price (RRP) of S$399.

Specifications***

Operating system: Android TM 15

Size/weight: ~166 mm H x 76 mm W x 8.8 mm D  / ~187 g 

CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 6300 2.4 GHz × 2 + 2 GHz × 6 octacore

Built-in memory: 8 GB RAM + 8 GB virtual RAM / 256 GB ROM 

Display: ~6.6" HD+ (720 x 1,612 pixels) LCD display 

Rear-facing cameras

Effective pixel count: ~50.1 M (wide) + 1.9 M (depth); CMOS sensor; f1.8 lens [wide angle 79°]

Front-facing camera

Effective pixel count: ~8 M; CMOS sensor; f2.0 lens [wide angle 78°]

Wi-Fi: IEEE802.11a/b/g/n/ac

Bluetooth: v5.3 

Battery capacity: 5,000 mAh (standard capacity of built-in battery) 

Waterproof/dustproof/shock-resistance: IPX5 / IPX8 / IPX9 / IP6X* (waterproof and dustproof standards)/MIL-STD-810H (shockproof standard)

Biometric authentication: Facial recognition (mask compatible), fingerprint authentication 

Other functions: NFC, nano SIM + eSIM Dual SIM Dual VoLTE, microSDXC (up to 2 TB) card-compatible 

*IPX5 means that using a nozzle with an inner diameter of 6.3mm, water can be sprayed from all directions at a rate of 12.5 l per minute from a distance of approximately 3 m for at least 3 minutes, while maintaining its functionality as a communication device. 

IPX8 indicates that when a mobile phone is submerged in tap water at room temperature in still water at a depth of 1.5
m and left for about 30 minutes, it retains its functionality as a communication device upon retrieval. 

IPX9 means that even after being subjected to high-pressure jets of water at high temperatures (80°C) from four different angles (0°, 30°, 60°, 90°) for 30 seconds each (for a total of 2 minutes), the phone retains its functionality as a device.

**An ISTA 2A drop test was conducted from a height of 1.22 m onto a concrete surface at 26 different angles. This does not guarantee that the product is free from damage or malfunction under all impacts.

***Specifications and design are subject to change at the time of release. 

Geopolitical instability overtakes economic risk

- Global confidence drops to near-pandemic lows in early 2026

- Middle East conflict reshapes risk priorities, placing pressure on key hubs like Singapore  

Geopolitical instability has overtaken economic risk as the top concern for finance professionals globally as confidence falls close to pandemic-era lows in early 2026. The findings come as conflict in the Middle East intensifies pressures already building across the global economy, reinforcing concerns around financial conditions, supply chains and energy prices.

The latest Global Economic Conditions Survey (GECS) from ACCA and IMA shows sentiment among finance professionals has deteriorated sharply, marking one of the weakest readings since 2020. The shift reflects a growing recognition that geopolitical, economic and technological risks are increasingly interconnected.

Singapore sits at the centre of these pressures. As a major regional treasury and logistics hub, it is particularly exposed to rising bond yields, US dollar strength and tighter global financial conditions. At the same time, its position as a key aviation and freight hub links it directly to disruption in global trade flows, including those connected to the Middle East.

Across the Asia Pacific, 33% of respondents ranked geopolitical instability as their top risk priority in Q1, well above the global average of 25%. Cybersecurity ranked second at 17% globally, reflecting the growing threat environment for digitally-advanced economies like Singapore. The survey also captures a deeper concern about eroding institutional trust, a theme that resonates in a market where regulatory confidence and stability are core to Singapore’s value proposition.

Daniel Leung, Country Manager – Singapore, ACCA, said: "The report reflects a world in which the traditional boundaries between geopolitical, economic and technological risks have effectively dissolved. For Singapore, a city whose prosperity is built on open trade, financial stability and global connectivity, this convergence of risks demands a new level of strategic vigilance from finance professionals.

"The survey’s findings on rising cost pressures, tighter financial conditions and declining CFO confidence are signals that business leaders here cannot afford to ignore."  

The survey showed a sharp decline in confidence among accountants and finance professionals in the early months of 2026. Sentiment is close to the series lows recorded at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, as firms grapple with the fourth major shock to hit the global economy already this decade. Confidence also fell very sharply among chief financial officers taking part in the survey.

While the April two-week ceasefire brought hope to markets of some recovery from the biggest global oil shock since at least the 1970s, the enormous uncertainty clouding the global economy remains. Even if a more durable resolution is found energy and other commodity prices look set to remain elevated.

  While geopolitical instability unsurprisingly ranked as the top risk priority for accountants in Q1, it is only the second time since the global risks survey was added to the GECS in Q223 that economic risks have not been the top concern. They were in third place after cyber risks, which were second.

Rachael Johnson, Head of Risk Management and Corporate Governance, ACCA, said: "This shift does not suggest a reduction in economic worries, but a growing recognition of how converging forces shape the macro landscape. Respondents point to AI and cyberthreats amplifying other risks, and emphasise how eroding trust – in institutions, information and leadership – is becoming a defining feature of operating in today’s world."

 

Source: ACCA. The depressed level of confidence is broadly similar levels in Q125, after a sharp decline in the aftermath of the US presidential election, the ACCA said. Confidence fell particularly sharply among CFOs, and is now at its weakest since Q120, albeit well above that record low.

Rising cost pressures were evident at businesses in Q1, with the percentage of respondents reporting increased operating costs at its highest rate since Q322 in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Given the recent spike in the price of energy and other important commodities and increasing stresses in supply chains, the risk is that cost pressures facing firms will mount over the coming months.

Some of the survey results were a bit more encouraging, likely owing to the resilience of the global economy ahead of the onset of the conflict in the Middle East. The Global New Orders Index registered a solid increase and is now at its historical average level. The Global Employment Index, which captures the hiring and firing decisions of firms, also improved somewhat, while remaining below its historical average.  

Alain Mulder, Senior Director, Europe Operations & Global Special Projects at IMA said: "The global economy entered 2026 in decent shape, but enormous uncertainty currently clouds the outlook. Inflation is already beginning to rise sharply, and downside risks to growth will mount the longer energy and other commodity prices remain elevated."

  Jonathan Ashworth, Chief Economist, ACCA said: "Major supply shocks create very tricky situations for policymakers. After years of above target inflation, central bankers need to tread very carefully so as not to let the inflation genie out of the bottle. Very high government debt levels also constrain the room for major fiscal support in many countries, even in advanced economies."

Ashworth concluded: "Developments in the Middle East over the coming weeks and months will be absolutely key for global economic prospects over the remainder of 2026."

Explore

Read GECS Q1 2026 at https://www.accaglobal.com/gb/en/professional-insights/global-economics/gecs-q1-2026.html

Japanese meal subscription service arrives in Singapore

- Tsuklio offers Japanese home‐style meals for S$17 per serving

- Over 100 rotating recipes designed for busy households and working professionals  

 

Antway, a Tokyo-based food-tech company, has launched its 'home-cooked' meal subscription service Tsuklio in Singapore, marking its first international expansion into Southeast Asia. 

Known in Japan for its convenience and quality, Tsuklio delivers fresh, never-frozen Japanese home-style meals on a weekly subscription designed for busy households and working professionals. 

Each meal is crafted daily in a central kitchen under the supervision by registered dietitians to ensure optimal nutrition, flavour, and freshness. Menus draw from more than 100 rotating recipes. The dishes prepared in a variety of flavour styles, from classic Japanese and Chinese-inspired dishes to Western-influenced recipes. 

In Singapore, Tsuklio will debut with a three-meal-per-week household plan (portions for three to four people) at S$211 per week, maintaining the same strict quality-control standards that have defined the brand in Japan. Users may enjoy the convenience of weekly deliveries, flexible skip or change options, and easy cancellations to suit personal schedules.

Source: Antway. Tsuklio meal plans offer enough food for three days a week in portions serving up to four people. A total of eight dishes are delivered once a week.

Kei Maejima, Founder & CEO of Antway said, “In Singapore, we noticed that many families and busy professionals are constantly juggling work, home and personal commitments and mealtimes often become one more thing to manage. Tsuklio was created to bring back the joy of sitting down to a comforting, delicious yet nutritious home-cooked meal without the stress of planning, grocery shopping or spending hours in the kitchen.”

Food safety and quality assurance remain central to Tsuklio’s brand promise. In line with Singapore’s regulatory requirements, the company will implement strict checks on ingredient sourcing, supplier selection and kitchen processes.  

Singapore was chosen as Tsuklio’s first overseas market after a four-week test-marketing programme conducted in 2025, which involved 70 participants and delivered strong validation. The results showed clear demand among urban, dual-income households who are familiar with meal-subscription services and enjoy diverse Asian flavours. 

Tsuklio has served more than 30 million meals across 46 prefectures in Japan, and saw the number of meals provided increase by 64% year-on-year as of April 2025. 

Details

View Tsuklio’s menus and subscription plans at https://sg.tsuklio.com

Pan Pacific Singapore commemorates 40 years of hospitality excellence

The iconic Pan Pacific Singapore, a landmark luxury hotel in the heart of Marina Bay and Singapore’s central business district, celebrates 40 years of excellence in hospitality in 2026.

Source: Pan Pacific Singapore. Celebrate Pan Pacific Singapore’s 40th anniversary with a series of exclusive experiences and offers.

Melvin Lim, GM, Pan Pacific Singapore said: “Over the past four decades, Pan Pacific Singapore has continually evolved, guided by our unwavering commitment to elevate guest experiences. Key milestones in Pan Pacific Singapore’s transformation include the launch of the 519-square-metre Ocean Ballroom in 2000, expanding the hotel’s portfolio of meeting venues and reaffirming our ambition to be the city’s preferred destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).”

Guests are invited to experience the warm hospitality and graceful luxury that has defined Pan Pacific Singapore for four decades. Celebrate Pan Pacific Singapore’s 40th anniversary with a series of exclusive experiences, from dining offers and spa treatments to luxurious staycations, an art showcase, and exclusive meetings and events packages. 

Edge 

At award-winning buffet restaurant Edge, Executive Chef Andy Oh and his culinary team invite guests to celebrate Pan Pacific Singapore’s 40th anniversary with an exceptional weekday lunch experience priced at S$40++ per person (usual prices or UP, up to S$72++). 

Available from now until 15 November 2026, this celebratory offer is valid with a minimum of four adult diners and limited to the first 40 guests per lunch period. Edge offers an extensive array of Asian and international fare, prepared with the freshest ingredients and cooked à la minute, with tantalising dishes and tempting desserts from the best of Singaporean, Chinese, Malay, Indian, Japanese, Thai, and western cuisines.

Highlights include Edge’s signature Singapore laksa with yong tau foo, Japanese golden chicken curry, a signature carving station with slow-roasted beef striploin with roasted root vegetables, home-cured beef salami, chicken ham, pastrami, mortadella, paprika Lyoner, and meatloaf, made in-house by the hotel’s Master Butcher Chef Haiko Mayer. 

Other stations to visit include a cured salmon station with Fassler smoked salmon, a rojak station, a kueh pie tee station, and more. For seafood lovers, Edge offers a spread of fresh seafood, including sustainable Boston lobster, tiger prawns, Pacific clam, half shell scallops, sea conch, black mussel, and crawfish. 

Sweet endings await with decadent desserts by Executive Pastry Chef Edina Si, such as homemade apple cinnamon tart, mango pomelo Swiss roll, durian pengat, and more. 

Details 

Edge Weekday Lunch Buffet

From now until 15 November 2026, Mondays to Fridays
Available for lunch from 12 pm to 2:30 pm
$40++ per person (UP up to S$72++)

View Edge’s menu at https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pp-marina/dining/edge.html

For reservations, visit https://www.tablecheck.com/en/pan-pacific-singapore-edge/reserve

Hai Tien Lo

Since its inception 40 years ago, Hai Tien Lo has been seen as one of the most respected Chinese restaurants in Singapore. Guests can savour traditional Cantonese dishes and authentic dim sum, as well as exclusive Chinese teas and exotic Chinese liquors.

Led by Executive Chinese Chef Edden Yap and his culinary team, the award-winning Hai Tien Lo presents an exquisite selection of authentic Cantonese cuisine with a modern twist. Available on weekdays from now until 30 December 2026, celebrate Pan Pacific Singapore’s 40th anniversary with a bottle of wine at S$40++, with a choice of Changyu Noble Dragon N158 or Changyu Riesling Dry White.

Savour these wines alongside Hai Tien Lo’s signature dishes, such as deep-fried Ibérico pork spareribs in creamy sauce, topped with shredded lime; stewed Japanese rice vermicelli with pan-fried lobster meat and scallop, in house-made sour tomato broth, steamed sea perch fillet with aged Teochew preserved radish, and more. 

Details 

View Hai Tien Lo’s menu at https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pp-marina/dining/hai-tien-lo.html

For reservations, please call +65 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com

Keyaki 

At Keyaki, experience a culinary journey that promises to elevate the dining experience as Executive Japanese Chef Teruya Noriyoshi and his culinary team present authentic Japanese cuisine with the finest ingredients imported directly from Japan. 

Head Teppanyaki Chef Eric Yong presents a weekday teppanyaki lunch set priced at S$40++ per person. Available at Keyaki’s teppanyaki counter, the menu is limited to the first 12 guests per lunch period. 

The experience begins with a trio of appetisers, featuring foie gras terrine in rice waffle, mozuku seaweed with snow crab meat, and jimami tofu. Guests may select a main course of Hokkaido white pork, chicken, or Wagyu beef (available at an additional S$30++), followed by signature garlic fried rice and miso soup. 

Details 

Keyaki Weekday Teppanyaki Lunch Set 

From now until 30 December 2026, Mondays to Fridays
Available for lunch from 12 pm to 2:30 pm
S$40++ per person

View Keyaki’s menu at https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pp-marina/dining/keyaki.html

For reservations, call +65 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com

Pacific Emporium

Executive Pastry Chef Si and her pastry team present a series of commemorative cakes at S$40++ each, available exclusively at Pacific Emporium. 

From now until 30 June 2026, guests can indulge in the coconut crystal cake, a delicate mix of coconut chiffon, light coconut cream, and coconut crystal jelly. From 1 July until 31 December 2026, the spotlight shifts to the hojicha buckwheat cake with seasonal fruits, featuring hojicha-infused cream, buckwheat sponge, brown sugar mochi, and an assortment of fresh seasonal fruits. 

Details

View Pacific Emporium’s menu at https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pp-marina/dining/pacific-emporium.html

For reservations, please call +65 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com

PLUME 

Helmed by Head Mixologist Akmal Haqim and Bar Manager Siew Han Jun, PLUME is a destination cocktail bar poised to enchant the most discerning of connoisseurs. In honour of Pan Pacific Singapore’s 40th anniversary, guests are invited on a sensory journey featuring a curated tasting flight priced at S$40++. 

The experience presents three bespoke tasting-sized cocktails, each inspired by the flavours and ingredients of the Asia-Pacific region, and paired with a complementary bar bite. 

The tasting flight is refreshed every two months.

Details

View PLUME’s menu at https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pp-marina/dining/plume.html

For reservations, please call +65 9459 7165 or email plume.ppsin@panpacific.com 

St Gregory 

Step into a world of serenity and tranquillity at Pan Pacific Singapore’s award-winning spa. In celebration of the hotel’s 40th anniversary, St Gregory invites guests to pause and unwind with a specially curated 40-minute express massage, offered at a promotional price of S$100 nett. 

Designed to ease tension and restore balance, this rejuvenating treatment provides a restorative pause amid the city’s bustle. 

Details

View St Gregory’s menu at https://www.panpacific.com/en/hotels-and-resorts/pp-marina/experiences/st-gregory.html

For more information, call +65 6826 8140, email stgregory.ppsin@panpacific.com, or visit bit.ly/PPSINStGregory

A luxurious 40th anniversary retreat 

The exclusive 40th Anniversary Stay Package offers a one-night room stay for two persons with breakfast at Edge and a welcome drink at PLUME.  

Details 

For more information, visit https://eshop-ppsin.panpacific.com/products/2d1n-stay- voucher-h12026

Meetings and events packages 

The Stay and Savour meetings package offers special rates for events booked from now until 30 June 2026, for events taking place between now and 30 September 2026. Savour an exclusive culinary experience featuring wellness-inspired selections, regional favourites, and local specialities. 

This celebratory package is available for events with a minimum of 15 rooms booked and 30 guests per event day. Enjoy special room rates from S$320++, inclusive of one complimentary breakfast, and choose from three curated culinary experiences with live stations, at S$118++ per person. 

The options include A Nourishing Affair, a wellness-inspired lunch buffet, A Journey Through Southeast Asia, a cocktail reception with canapés inspired by the region, and Tastes of Singapore, a heritage- inspired dinner buffet.

Additional concessions: 

• Full-day meeting packages start from S$130++ per guest, inclusive of one lunch and two refreshment breaks 

• Enjoy a complimentary one-hour extension with any two-hour free flow beverage package purchased for the event 

For social events, packages start from S$148++ per person with a minimum of 40 guests. Highlights include four hours of exclusive venue use, an eight-course Chinese set menu, free flow of soft drinks and Chinese tea throughout the event, a bottle of house wine for every confirmed guest table, and more. 

Enjoy a choice of one of the following:

• A complimentary 2 kg birthday cake prepared by Executive Pastry Chef Si and her pastry team 

• A 30-litre barrel of beer 

• A one-night stay in a Deluxe Room with breakfast for two persons 

• A complimentary buffet dinner voucher for four persons at Edge

Additional concessions: 

• A complimentary longevity birthday bun 

• Carpark coupons for up to 20% of confirmed guests 

• A customised centrepiece for each guest table 

Details

For enquiries, call +65 6826 8052 or +65 6826 8248, or email sales.ppsin@panpacific.com (meetings) or celebrate.ppsin@panpacific.com (events). 

Public Art Space – A Voyage of Hue and Imagination 

As part of its 40th anniversary celebrations, Pan Pacific Singapore and Singapore-born autodidact abstract artist, Dr Low Lee Yong, famously known as Dr Lowly, present a curated selection of Dr Lowly’s works. Inspired by nature and emotion, Dr Lowly’s works explore imagination, impermanence, and hope. Each canvas becomes a dance between control and release, echoing experience, mystery, and renewal. His art celebrates both the fleeting grace of the natural world and the quiet resilience of the human spirit. 

The showcase is on view at the Public Art Space on Level 2 of Pan Pacific Singapore, from now until 1 June 2026. It highlights his signature Squeeze and Splatter technique - dynamic bursts of acrylic that transform spontaneity into structure and disorder into visual poetry, featuring vibrant layers of colour and movement.  

Dr Lowly will donate 100% of proceeds from the sale of two artworks, Ferocious Focus and Stripped Stare, to the Children’s Cancer Foundation.

Details

For more information, contact Dr Lowly on +65 8060 7474 or email contact@DrLowly.Art

Memories and stories 

Follow Pan Pacific Singapore on Instagram and Facebook for a curated series of photos and videos showcasing flashbacks, iconic moments, and behind-the-scenes glimpses from four decades of history. Delight in heartfelt stories from long-serving staff, former colleagues, and generations of loyal guests, reflecting on their fondest memories of Pan Pacific Singapore. 

“Out of our 515 associates at Pan Pacific Singapore today, we are especially proud that some have been with us since our pre-opening days 40 years ago. Their long service reflects the strong sense of family that defines our culture. As we commemorate this extraordinary milestone, we remain committed to continuous training and development programmes that enhance our associates’ skills, knowledge, and understanding of luxury service, enabling them to deliver even more innovative and exceptional experiences for our guests,” said Lim.  

Commitment to community 

Pan Pacific Singapore is proud to be the Official Hotel Partner of Dementia Singapore, supporting initiatives that raise awareness of dementia and provide meaningful benefits to individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.

Through this partnership, Pan Pacific Singapore offers exclusive stay and dining privileges to members of CARA, Dementia Singapore’s lifestyle and community platform connecting persons living with dementia and caregivers to a supportive ecosystem of solutions.

The collaboration also creates opportunities for Pan Pacific Singapore employees to participate in dementia advocacy efforts, including awareness talks by Dementia Singapore and internal training programmes organised by the hotel to enhance understanding of dementia-related issues within the hospitality sector.

Details 

For more information, please visit https://dementia.org.sg/

Pan Pacific DISCOVERY benefits

Pan Pacific Hotels & Resorts’ loyalty programme, Pan Pacific DISCOVERY, allows members to earn up to 7% cash back in
DISCOVERY dollars (D$) on stays, dining, and spa. Enjoy perks such as room upgrades and late check-out (subject to availability), birthday treats, and complimentary breakfast for Titanium members.

Details

For more information, visit https://www.panpacific.com/en/panpacific-discovery/sign-up-today.html?r=PPSIN 

Highlights through the years

Pan Pacific Singapore boasts 790 guestrooms and suites, wellness and fitness facilities, six restaurants and bars, and 2,329 sq m of meeting and event venues. It has held a distinguished place in the city’s skyline since 1986. 

This was followed by a major transformation in 2012, which saw the full renovation of over 280 guestrooms. In the same year, the hotel launched Edge, one of the city’s largest buffet restaurants with 330 seats, featuring an extensive selection of Asian and international cuisine. 

The Pacific Club Lounge, which was originally located on Level 33, was moved to the highest floor of the hotel on Level 38, offering clubroom and suite guests a more spacious and exclusive experience with 360-degree views of the Marina Bay and the city skyline. The iconic floating pods were also introduced in the atrium on Level 1, which have since become a prominent architectural feature of the hotel. 

Enhancements continued in the years that followed. In 2016, the outdoor swimming pool underwent a comprehensive renovation, unveiling a refreshed oasis complete with water features, lush greenery, private lounging spaces, and a children’s wading pool, alongside a new poolside bar. 

The 806-square-metre Pacific Ballroom was revitalised in 2017, introducing opulent interiors, a distinctive honeycomb ceiling with programmable lighting, and state-of-the-art audiovisual capabilities. 

Keyaki, one of Singapore’s oldest and most authentic Japanese restaurants, introduced the Keyaki Garden Pavilion in 2018, set within a serene Kyoto-inspired garden surrounded by koi ponds, offering a tranquil setting for intimate events. 

In 2023, Pan Pacific Singapore continued to evolve with the refurbishment of 476 rooms. The hotel also debuted the all-day dining restaurant, Pacific Emporium, serving local specialities and themed afternoon tea, alongside PLUME, the destination cocktail bar, featuring avian-inspired cocktails. 

The Ocean Ballroom and meeting rooms saw another refresh, featuring new luxury furnishings and advanced audiovisual technology. The hotel’s in-house butchery has also seen an expansion, from a single smokehouse in 1986 to three smokehouses today, supplying house-made cold cuts and cured meats to restaurants, bars, supermarkets, and hotels in Singapore.  

Pan Pacific Singapore also holds a number of notable firsts and cultural moments in its history. In 1986, Pan Pacific Singapore was the first hotel to introduce Network for Electronic Transfers Scheme (NETS) in Singapore, marking an early step towards cashless convenience. It also served as a filming location for the 1988 comedy film ‘Carry On Hotel’, featuring stars such as Jacky Cheung, Kent Cheng, Cherie Chung, Eric Tsang, and Joey Wang. 

Hashtags: #PanPacificSingapore, #PPS40thAnniversary, #EdgeSG, #HaiTienLoSG, #KeyakiSG, #PacificEmporiumSG, #PLUMESG, #ShareYourMoments 

*Prices quoted are in Singapore dollars, and are subject to a service charge and prevailing government taxes.