SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – Language should never stand in the way of ambition. At the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), English proficiency is more than an entry requirement, it is the foundation for success in global education and careers. In today’s interconnected world, English opens doors to world-class learning and international opportunities. For students coming to Singapore, mastering English means more than meeting admission criteria. It ensures confidence in diverse classrooms and readiness for global workplaces. SIM provides comprehensive pathways to help every learner overcome language barriers and thrive.

Why English Matters

English is the universal language of education and business. For students aspiring to study in Singapore, a leading hub for international education. Proficiency in English ensures they can engage confidently in lectures, collaborate effectively on projects, and access global resources. It is not just about passing exams, it is about thriving in a multicultural learning environment and preparing for international careers.

SIM’s Standards for Excellence

Applicants to SIM and its universities partner must demonstrate English proficiency through internationally recognized tests, with requirements varying by programme. For complete requirements, reach out to SIM Counsellor for programme-specific advice via email address study@sim.edu.sg.

Australia

• Monash College (Foundation Year) requires IELTS 5.5 (no band below 5.0) and does not accept TOEFL Special Home Edition or PTE-A Online. Minimum of D for GCE O Level and E for GCE A Level.
• RMIT University programmes generally require IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT 79, with PTE-A equivalents.
• University of Wollongong degrees require IELTS 6.0 for computing and business programmes and 6.5 for psychology, with TOEFL and PTE-A equivalents.

United States

• University at Buffalo requires either IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 550/iBT 79 or Duolingo 110 or SAT 1 ERWS 550 or ACT English & Reading 20. Minimum of C6 for GCE O Level.

United Kingdom

• University of Birmingham requires IELTS 6.5 (with component minimums) or TOEFL iBT 88. Minimum of C6 for GCE O Level.
• University of London degrees and Goldsmiths require IELTS 6.0, while its International Foundation Programme needs IELTS 5.5.
• LSE Certificate of Higher Education requires IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 87.
• University of Stirling requires IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 87. Minimum of C6 for GCE O Level.

Bridging the Gap

While many local students meet English requirements through prior education, SIM ensures international learners or those from non-English-speaking backgrounds receive the support they need. The Certificate in English Language (CEL) programme builds essential skills in listening, reading, speaking, and writing, helping students transition smoothly into diploma or foundation programmes.

CEL offers three levels comprising of Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, and Upper-Intermediate, each lasting about three months full-time. Placement is based on IELTS, TOEFL, PTE scores or SIM’s English Placement Test. Beyond theory, CEL focuses on practical communication, preparing students for academic success and real-world interaction. This programme reflects SIM’s commitment to inclusivity and global readiness because language should never be a barrier to education or opportunity.

Empowering Global Learners

SIM stands as one of Singapore’s leading private education institutions, offering over 140 academic programmes in collaboration with top universities from the UK, US, Australia, and Europe. These programmes are designed to equip students with both academic knowledge and practical skills for the future of work.

Beyond academics, SIM emphasizes employability and international readiness through initiatives such as Career Connect, which provides internships, networking opportunities, and industry engagement, and CareerSense, an AI-powered career planning tool. Students also enjoy a vibrant campus life with more than 70 student clubs, fostering leadership and cross-cultural collaboration

With a global alumni network spanning over 40 countries, SIM graduates gain lifelong access to career support, professional development, and networking opportunities, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving job market

Language should never stand in the way of ambition. With SIM’s comprehensive suite of programmes, ranging from diplomas to degrees and professional qualifications, learners gain access to the tools, resources, and pathways needed to thrive in today’s globalized world

References:

1. UOL English Requirement – https://www.sim.edu.sg/getmedia/c8061baa-344a-4c43-82a2-4db42ed540d2/English-requirement-2020.pdf
2. Certificate in English Language – https://www.sim.edu.sg/getmedia/ecef8a51-ada8-4a3c-aec0-255e2c5faab2/sim004431.pdf
3. SIM Degree & Diploma Overview – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/overview
4. SIM Alumni – https://www.sim.edu.sg/alumni
5. SIM GE Programme Listings – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

https://www.sim.edu.sg

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – Huace Group, China’s leading film and television studio, hosted the Asian showcase for its historical magnum opus Swords Into Plowshares (Chinese title: Taiping Nian) at the main stage of the Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF). Marking the drama’s debut promotion in Asia, the event attracted over 300 distributors, platform representatives, and media professionals from around the globe, drawn by its unique narrative perspective on “War and Peace” and its top-tier production standards.

Swords Into Plowshares brings together China’s premier creative team and a star-studded cast. The event sparked significant interest with the first joint overseas appearance of lead actors Bai Yu (portraying Qian Hongchu) and Zhu Yawen (portraying Zhao Kuangyin).

A Historic Tale of Peace Set against the backdrop of China’s “Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms” period leading into the Northern Song Dynasty (10th Century), Swords Into Plowshares chronicles the story of Qian Hongchu, King of Wuyue, and Zhao Kuangyin, the founding Emperor of the Song Dynasty. It depicts how, amidst a chaotic era, they achieved national unification through the political wisdom of “peaceful surrender of territory” (avoiding war for the sake of the people).

The core driving force of the drama is cultural identity and the universal human pursuit of peace. “This series offers a new possibility for historical storytelling,” noted a European streaming acquisition executive after viewing the footage. “Rooted in authentic history, its solution of ‘valuing peace’ presents a profound Eastern perspective.”

Eastern Wisdom Meets Top-Tier Production Zhao Yifang, Founder and Chairman of Huace Group and Chief Producer of the series, remarked at the showcase: “Swords Into Plowshares embodies the Eastern wisdom of ‘replacing conquest with harmony.’ We selected this subject not merely to tell a Chinese story, but to share a shared human story from a Chinese perspective.”

To visualize this grand theme, Huace Group dedicated a decade to the project, investing industry-leading production resources. The series was filmed using 8K ultra-high-definition technology, featuring over 550 constructed sets and more than 8,000 costumes. Prop accuracy was controlled within a margin of error of 0.1 millimeters, aiming to deliver an immersive audio-visual experience for global audiences.

Global Potential and Strategic Partnerships Market reaction has confirmed the show’s global appeal. Swords Into Plowshares has previously garnered attention at international festivals in FILMART, MIPCOM, and TIFFCOM, reaching cooperation intentions with over 30 international organizations.

During the event, Huace Group formally signed contracts with Asia Production (Hong Kong，China) and True Visions (Thailand) to jointly promote the distribution of premium Chinese-language content, represented by Swords Into Plowshares, in international markets.

New Horizons for Chinese Content Export Industry insiders note that the high level of international interest in Swords Into Plowshares reflects a shift in Chinese drama exports. While previous exports often relied on Wuxia (martial arts) or Xianxia (fantasy) genres, historical dramas like Swords Into Plowshares are now opening new market spaces through cinematic production quality, profound historical depth, and universal values.

Huace Group’s Global Reach With over 30 years of dedication to content creation and global dissemination, Huace Group has distributed nearly 180,000 hours of content to more than 200 countries and regions. Its self-operated channels matrix covers 20 languages with over 58 million overseas subscribers.

During this ATF, Huace also unveiled its 2026 lineup, presenting multiple upcoming titles including The Heir, Blossom, You Are My Fateful Love, Xin Su, and Now or Never. These projects span culture, romance, workplace, and crime genres, demonstrating the robust production capabilities of this leading Chinese entertainment enterprise.

Hashtag: #HuaceGroup #SwordsIntoPlowshares #TaipingNian #ChineseDrama #FilmAndTV #MediaShowcase

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Launches “Smart Kitchen Fund” to Tackle Local Kitchen Challenges

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – FOTILE, a world-renowned leader in premium kitchen appliances, has officially launched in Hong Kong. To celebrate its arrival in the local community, FOTILE is simultaneously launching its first major campaign, the “Smart Kitchen Fund.” With a pledge of HKD 1 million, the fund aims to assist Hong Kong families in overcoming kitchen challenges caused by limited space and oil fumes, striving to create ideal culinary spaces that are smart, aesthetic, and practical.

Insights into HK Living Environments: Addressing “Nano Kitchen” Dilemmas
With Hong Kong’s notoriously compact living spaces, kitchens often bear the brunt of spatial limitations. According to FOTILE’s 2025 survey of 1,200 local households, 78% of respondents report that kitchen fumes seriously affect their quality of life, while over 65% struggle to improve their kitchen workflow due to a lack of space. Many “kitchen struggles” include insufficient storage, lingering fumes, chaotic functionality, and cleaning difficulties– problems that not only reduce cooking efficiency but also directly impact the health and well-being of family members.

“We believe the kitchen is the heart of a home and a space for connection,” said the Head of FOTILE Hong Kong. “It should inspire joy, not frustration. Through the Smart Kitchen Fund, we are bringing our ‘Happiness starts in your kitchen’ philosophy to Hong Kong, offering not only premium appliances but meaningful solutions that turn daily challenges into everyday highlights.”

The Smart Kitchen Fund: A Pathway to Transformation
To demonstrate the possibilities of an ideal kitchen, FOTILE released a video documenting a real-life kitchen transformation. The video showcases how Mrs. Chung’s family saw their traditional, problem-ridden kitchen evolve into a modern, smart kitchen. The story has resonated deeply with the public regarding #KitchenStruggles and ignited aspirations for “#MyDreamKitchen”

From now until January 31, 2026, all Hong Kong residents can apply for the “Smart Kitchen Fund” via the FOTILE Hong Kong official website. Applicants simply need to share their current kitchen dilemmas and their vision for an ideal kitchen to stand a chance of being selected for funding. FOTILE’s professional team will provide selected families with a one-stop sponsored service, ranging from design proposals and product matching to installation.

FOTILE Officially Lands in Hong Kong with Flagship Products
Established in 1996, FOTILE has expanded its footprint to over 60 countries worldwide, including the USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Renowned for superior product performance, innovative design, and reliable quality, the brand has received numerous international accolades, including the Red Dot Design Award and the iF Design Award. FOTILE consistently invests substantial resources into R&D annually, holding numerous industry-leading core patented technologies.

Positioning Hong Kong as a key global market, FOTILE established a local team in 2025 and plans to open a flagship showroom in the coming year. This centre will feature experiential kitchens, steam-bake cooking demonstrations, and after-sales support to comprehensively elevate the user experience. To coincide with the brand’s entry, FOTILE has introduced a series of flagship products tailored for Hong Kong’s high-density living environments:

Powerful Suction, Quiet Cooking
Addressing open-plan kitchens or those with poor ventilation, FOTILE introduces the ZMG9057-Y Chimney Hood and the EMG9008 Chimney Hood. Additionally, the EMG6018 60cm Chimney Hood is specifically designed for compact apartments. With sizes ranging from 60cm to 90cm, the lineup meets diverse family needs. These products feature patented silent technology and powerful suction to instantly exhaust fumes, ensuring fresh indoor air.

Smart Temperature Control, Versatile All-in-One
The HZK-TS1 Built-in Steam Oven (42L) is designed for compact spaces. It combines steaming, baking, air-frying, and dehydrating in one unit. Utilizing smart temperature control technology, it precisely manages heat and humidity, enabling home cooking to rival master-chef standards. A larger capacity HZK72-H1 (72L) model is also available.

Washing Revolution, Health Guardian
The SD2F-P6 3-in-1 Sink Dishwasher is a game-changer. This innovative product perfectly integrates a sink, a dishwasher, and a fruit & vegetable purifier. Its High-Energy Bubble Wash technology effectively removes grease from tableware and over 90% of pesticide residues from produce, making it a space-saving essential for small Hong Kong kitchens.

Apply for the “Smart Kitchen Fund”
If you want to transform your kitchen or upgrade to smart appliances, apply immediately via the official website: https://bit.ly/44ApCKY
Hashtag: #FOTILE #FOTILEhk #SmartKitchenExpert #SmartKitchen #HighEndKitchenAppliances #KitchenRenovation #SmartKitchen

https://www.facebook.com/hkfotile
https://www.instagram.com/fotilehk/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About FOTILE

FOTILE is a globally renowned high-end kitchen appliance brand, dedicated to the R&D and manufacturing of built-in hobs, range hoods, dishwashers, and other kitchen appliances. With outstanding product excellence and the brand philosophy “For a Great Kitchen,” FOTILE is committed to providing leading kitchen solutions for families worldwide, creating a better home life.

Company Marks Over 10,000 Saplings Planted Since 2019; Supports 1,200 New Plantings with School Eco Clubs at Kuala Selangor Nature Park

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – MSIG Insurance (Malaysia) Bhd “(MSIG Malaysia)”, has strengthened its long-term commitment to coastal conservation through its ongoing partnership with the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS), facilitating a mangrove planting initiative where 20 Kelab Pencinta Alam (KPA) school eco clubs planted 1,200 saplings at the Kuala Selangor Nature Park (KNSP).

The planting activity, supported by MSIG’s sponsorship of the saplings, is part of a wider, multi-year collaboration with MNS focused on rehabilitating Malaysia’s mangrove ecosystems. Since the partnership began in 2019, MSIG and MNS have planted approximately 10,587 mangrove saplings across Peninsular Malaysia – a number that will continue to grow with the additional 1,200 saplings planted with the school eco clubs, 1,200 saplings planted last week across Selangor, Kedah, Perak, Melaka, Johor and Kota Kinabalu, and a further 400 saplings scheduled for planting before the end of this year.

In addition to financially supporting the planting programme, many MSIG employees also took time out of their usual work routines to volunteer in the planting activities facilitated by MNS in various parts of the country.

MSIG Malaysia’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Ang Yien Chia, expressed her appreciation for the team’s commitment to the initiative and reaffirmed the company’s belief in fostering shared value through environmental resilience:

“Since 2019, MSIG has been working closely with the Malaysian Nature Society to restore these valuable ecosystems across the country. Together, we have planted more than 10,000 mangrove saplings in multiple states, and we remain committed to expanding these efforts each year. Our aim is not just to count the number of trees planted, but to contribute to stronger, healthier, and more resilient coastal communities in the long term.”

Ms. Ang added, “What made the event especially meaningful is the involvement of young Malaysians. By planting these saplings, the students not only learn about conservation—they are actively shaping Malaysia’s environmental future. We believe the next generation will continue to play a crucial role in safeguarding our natural heritage, and we are proud to support their efforts alongside MNS. We look forward to continuing this partnership to create shared value for communities, for nature, and for the generations to come.”

Speaking at the event, MSIG Malaysia’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Toshibumi Suzuki, emphasized the vital role of nature-based protection in supporting communities:

“Our partnership with MNS reflects our belief that environmental protection and community resilience must go hand in hand. Growing up and working in Japan, I have seen how natural disasters such as typhoons and floods can severely impact people’s lives and livelihoods. Malaysia experiences its own challenges with flooding, and this is why the idea of protection — both through insurance and through nature — is so important to us at MSIG.”

“Mangrove forests are one of the best examples of how nature protects us. Their strong root systems help stabilise coastlines, reduce the impact of waves and storm surges, and protect communities living in low-lying areas. They also support biodiversity by providing habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife, while helping to mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. In many ways, mangroves act as nature’s own form of insurance.”

A Nationwide Conservation Footprint

Since 2019, MSIG and MNS have carried out mangrove replanting activities in diverse locations nationwide, demonstrating the programme’s broad geographical reach and conservation significance. Planting sites to date include:

• Sungai Cherating, Pahang
• Kuala Bagan Tiang, Perak
• Kampung Pulau Ketam, Perlis
• Kuala Selangor Nature Park, Selangor
• Delta Kelantan, Kelantan
• Sungai Merbok, Kedah
• Tanjung Tuan, Melaka
• Taman EcoCare, Terengganu
• Tanjung Piai, Johor
• Lukut, Negeri Sembilan
• Nibong Tebal, Penang
• Darau Wetlands, Sabah (new site added in 2025)

These efforts contribute to the rehabilitation of degraded coastal habitats, improved biodiversity, and strengthened natural buffers for flood- and erosion-prone communities.

MSIG’s work with MNS extends beyond one-off volunteerism, reflecting the company’s long-term vision to create shared value by strengthening Malaysia’s environmental resilience.

This mangrove programme remains MSIG’s primary supported initiative under its partnership with MNS, with plans to explore additional activities aligned with ecological restoration and community resilience in the future.
Hashtag: #MSIGMalaysia

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About MSIG Insurance (Malaysia) Bhd

MSIG Insurance (Malaysia) Bhd (“MSIG Malaysia”) is a subsidiary of Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company, Limited and a member of MS&AD Insurance Group Holding, Inc. (MS&AD).

With over 100 years of general insurance experience and a nationwide network of 20 branches in Malaysia, MSIG Malaysia is one of the leading general insurers in Fire, Engineering and Motor classes and No.1* in Marine Cargo, offering an extensive range of products and services for personal and business needs.

MSIG Malaysia’s expertise is well recognised through its receipt of many prestigious awards. These have included the 2020 Reader’s Digest Quality Service Award – Silver winner in the Car Insurance category. MSIG was recognised for having one of the highest levels of quality service, which reflects the effort that the company has put in to satisfy consumers’ demand for high service standards. The company was also awarded the 2018 “Outstanding Property and Casualty Insurer in Malaysia” award in the InsuranceAsia News Awards for Excellence. MSIG Malaysia was commended for leading the market with strong financial growth, investment in product innovation, enhanced digital capabilities in business and claims management systems and strong customer service proposition. Its commitment to customer service excellence through its efforts in enhancing the customer experience and industry leadership in Enterprise Risk Management also earned MSIG Malaysia the “General Insurance Company of the Year” at the Asia Insurance Industry Awards in 2015. Later at the 26^th Asia Insurance Industry Awards 2022, MSIG Malaysia was among the Top 3 Finalists for the General Insurance Company of the Year.

For more information on MSIG Malaysia, visit www.msig.com.my or facebook.com/MSIGmy.

*As of Dec 2024

About Malaysia Nature Society (MNS)

Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) is the oldest and largest membership-based environmental non-governmental organization in Malaysia. Established in 1940, The Society’s mission is to promote the study, appreciation, conservation and protection of Malaysia’s natural heritage. MNS has been the main force behind the protection of many key habitats as well as national, marine and state parks in Malaysia. The Society is also actively involved in species and habitat conservation as well as in the ratification of climate change convention in Malaysia.

For more info about MNS, please visit www.mns.my or facebook.com/MalaysianNatureSociety.Official