SURABAYA, Indonesia, Sept. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City, the first Aloft in Surabaya and part of Marriott International, introduces a fresh destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in East Surabaya. Designed for today’s business and social events, the hotel features expansive, tech-ready venues complemented by bold design and lifestyle-driven hospitality.

Connected directly to Pakuwon City Mall, the city’s largest lifestyle complex, the hotel offers unmatched convenience for business delegates. Its location also provides quick access to Kenjeran Beach, the Suramadu Bridge, and Juanda International Airport, making it a practical choice for both domestic and international travelers.

Flexible Spaces for Every Occasion

The property’s seven Tactic rooms feature modern design, colorful details, and adaptable layouts that inspire creativity. The ballroom spans 489 square meters with high ceilings, a generous pre-function foyer, and advanced audiovisual support. From product launches and conferences to weddings and exhibitions, every event can be tailored with a modern edge.

“As much as Aloft is about bold design and expressive energy, this hotel is also built for the business community,” said Reza Aryawarman, Multi-Property General Manager of Pakuwon Portfolio Hotels under Marriott International. “We’re proud to introduce a new MICE destination in East Surabaya, with facilities that cater to corporate and social events of every scale.”

True to the Aloft brand, the hotel combines business with lifestyle. Delegates can enjoy Asian comfort food with a modern twist at Vibe Restaurant, unwind over live music and cocktails at Echo Lounge & Bar, or connect casually at W XYZ^® bar. For quick bites at any hour, Re:fuel by Aloft^® keeps energy flowing 24/7.

Local Story, Global Energy

Adding a Surabaya twist, the hotel introduces mascots Elzo (Electric-Zone) and Keppy (Kepo and Happy), creative reinterpretations of the city’s folklore icons, Sura and Baya. Originating from the mural series “Merasa Bahagia” by Surabaya-born artist Peter Rhian (Redmiller Blood), the characters now appear in murals, digital art, and limited-edition merchandise, bringing local identity into a global stage.

The hotel features 233 loft-inspired guest rooms and suites, equipped with platform beds, walk-in showers, and 55-inch smart TVs. Smart layouts and modern amenities make the rooms ideal for both work and relaxation. Above each bed, variations of the “Merasa Bahagia” mural add a vibrant design detail, while large windows showcase views of Surabaya’s skyline, Kenjeran Beach, or the Suramadu Bridge.

Aloft Surabaya Pakuwon City proudly participates in Marriott Bonvoy^®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program. Members earn and redeem points for stays at more than 30 brands worldwide, unlocking exclusive benefits and curated experiences.

Bookings and event inquiries are now open at www.aloftsurabayapakuwoncity.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy^®

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel platform, connects travelers to the people, places, and passions they love through an extraordinary collection of hotels and experiences worldwide. The platform features over 30 hotel brands and 10,000 destinations, including the largest collection of luxury offerings, distinctive boutique properties, premium home rentals, and more, providing renowned hospitality across the globe. With unrivaled access to the best in entertainment, culinary, sports, outdoor adventure, arts, culture, and more, Marriott Bonvoy offers transformative travel experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Marriott Bonvoy membership is free and unlocks unique benefits including the ability to earn points through travel and everyday activities, like purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for free stays, experiences and more. Visit marriottbonvoy.com for more information and download the Marriott Bonvoy app here. Travelers can connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Marriott Bonvoy Insiders.

About Pakuwon Group

Pakuwon Group is one of Indonesia’s leading real estate developers, known for its visionary approach in shaping urban living through integrated developments. With over four decades of experience, Pakuwon has built an impressive portfolio of mixed-use superblocks combining retail, residential, office, and hospitality components across key cities in Indonesia. The Group owns and operates landmark developments such as Tunjungan Plaza and Pakuwon Mall in Surabaya, Gandaria City in Jakarta, and Pakuwon Mall Jogja. In hospitality, Pakuwon continues to expand its presence with a growing collection of award-winning hotels under renowned international brands including Sheraton, The Westin, Four Points, Fairfield, and Marriott Hotels in Jakarta, Surabaya, Bali, Yogyakarta, and Bekasi. Pakuwon is committed to delivering impactful destinations that enhance the way people live, work, shop, and stay. For more information, visit www.pakuwonjati.com.

About Aloft Hotels^®

With over 230 hotels now open in 33 countries and territories around the world, Aloft Hotels provides a forward-thinking hotel experience that helps guests enjoy the things they love while on the road. From gaming to cocktails and pet-friendly amenities, the brand offers flexibility with modern, welcoming spaces that encourage social interaction. The grab-and-go breakfast concept Re:fuel by Aloft^® includes offerings such as cold brew coffee and breakfast sandwiches, while the W xyz bar features a vibrant social scene, unique music-inspired cocktail menu and easy-to-share light bites. The brand’s pet-friendly program ArfSM (Animals R Fun) welcomes guests’ furry friends to the hotel with special in-room pet amenities. Aloft connects people and places through local know-how and cultural nods that give guests the ultimate freedom to choose their own adventure. For more information, visit www.alofthotels.com and follow along on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Aloft is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy^®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Singapore’s first solution that replaces ads in live broadcast TV channels with personalised messages, targeted screen by screen

SINGAPORE, Sept. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — StarHub is reshaping TV advertising with the launch of Dynamic Ad Pods, Singapore’s first solution that replaces ads in real time inside live broadcast TV channels. Unlike most connected TV ads that only run before or during on-demand shows, this innovation extends precision targeting into live programmes — unlocking new opportunities for advertisers while creating a more relevant and less repetitive experience for viewers.

Developed in collaboration with Hoppr, StarHub’s technology partner for Connected TV (CTV), Dynamic Ad Pods set a new benchmark for TV advertising in Singapore. It gives brands smarter, more relevant ways to connect with households, while making TV viewing smoother and less disruptive.

Drawing on insights from over 175 million hours of viewing data, StarHub’s advanced CTV Server-Side Ad Insertion (SSAI) technology makes it possible for two households watching the same live broadcast to see different ads at the same time, each tailored to their interests. This creates high-value opportunities across live sports, news, and primetime drama, supported by measurable performance and reduced media waste. Dynamic Break Matching ensures ads are seamlessly placed within programmes, minimising interruptions and keeping the viewing experience natural.

Dynamic Ad Pods also offer flexibility across a range of formats, including skippable pre-rolls before shows and stitched mid-rolls during both live broadcasts and on-demand content. All ads are delivered in a full-screen, sound-on, high-attention environment that maximises engagement without detracting from entertainment. This approach allows brands to engage viewers across the user journey, while controlling campaign reach and frequency effectively.

Unlike traditional TV advertising, which offers limited targeting and little control, Dynamic Ad Pods bring personalised ad replacements into linear broadcast feeds, customised down to each screen. With built-in brand safety controls and frequency capping, campaigns can be delivered with confidence, ensuring messages land effectively while reducing repetitive ads.

Beyond the TV screen, StarHub’s CTV solution extends campaigns across digital channels including display and WhatsApp, enabling brands to continue the conversation with audiences, retarget viewers, and drive conversions through clear Call-To-Actions. This creates a connected customer journey, from awareness to action.

By combining the broad reach and storytelling power of live TV with the precision and accountability of digital media, StarHub is giving businesses a powerful new way to achieve stronger outcomes while making TV time more enjoyable at home.

For more information, please visit www.starhub.com/business/advertising/advertising-platforms.html

• Over S$1 billion has been digitally transacted on HLF Digital, comprising more than S$600 million in fixed deposits placed via the app
• More than 14,000 app sign-ups since its soft launch in August 2024

SINGAPORE, Sept. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hong Leong Finance (HLF) has officially launched HLF Digital, a mobile app that empowers customers to manage their finances with ease, convenience and security. Since its pilot introduction in August 2024, HLF Digital has to date recorded more than 14,000 sign-ups and over S$1 billion has been digitally transacted through the platform, comprising more than S$600 million in fixed deposits placed via the app, underscoring strong interest and engagement among users.

Enhancing Customer Experience, Security and Sustainable Business Growth

With HLF Digital, customers will benefit from HLF’s integrated omnichannel approach where they can enjoy round-the-clock convenience for financial transactions alongside the face-to-face service of HLF’s branches and relationship managers.

Through an intuitive, user-friendly interface, HLF Digital places finance at customers’ fingertips and empowers them to access a broad range of services anytime, anywhere, from opening a new account and placing fixed deposits to making fund transfers and updating personal particulars, all within a secure and seamless digital ecosystem.

Furthermore, the app is built with robust security features to ensure that customers can manage their finances with confidence. It employs advanced encryption technology to protect sensitive data and multi-factor authentication for secure logins.

Customers have provided positive feedback on HLF Digital including its benefits and ease of use.

Mr Z. Zhuo, an app user who is in his 30s, said: “With my busy work schedule, the HLF Digital app has been a great help. It is easy to use, and I can now manage my finances, place fixed deposits, or transfer funds anytime, anywhere — right from my phone. The app’s security features also give me peace of mind whenever I use it.”

Mr S. Yew, another user who is in his 60s, added: “For someone like me who is not very tech-savvy, I was pleasantly surprised that I could easily learn to use the HLF Digital app. The app has brought so much convenience as I can easily access a range of services from the comfort of my home, and I still have the option of visiting the branch when I want to.”

Mr Ang Tang Chor, President of HLF, said: “The launch of HLF Digital marks a significant milestone in our transformation journey. The app is a strategic enabler that reinforces our long-term vision to be a customer-centric financial institution. It reflects our commitment to making financial services more accessible and efficient, as well as bringing greater value to customers. By combining technology with our personalised service, we are reshaping how customers engage with us while building a foundation for sustainable business growth and innovation.”

More details on HLF Digital app are available at:
HLF Digital

About Hong Leong Finance

A member of Hong Leong Group Singapore, Hong Leong Finance (HLF) is Singapore’s largest finance company with a network of 28 branches and 12 SME Centres island-wide. HLF’s loan books stood at S$11.668 billion, with deposit base at S$12.300 billion and shareholders’ funds at S$2.108 billion as at 31 December 2024.

HLF has retained its title as ASEAN Finance Company of the Year by Asian Banking & Finance for twelve consecutive years and is ranked among The Banker’s Top 1000 World Banks for the eighth year running. It is also named a Top 100 Most Valuable Singaporean Brand by Brand Finance for eight consecutive years and received the “Best Automobile Financing Product in Asia Pacific” in the TAB Global Excellence in Retail Finance Awards 2025 by The Asian Banker as well as the SBR Technology Excellence Awards 2025 by Singapore Business Review. For details, visit https://www.hlf.com.sg/.

SINGAPORE, Sept. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has announced its list of top rural destinations in Asia, offering travelers a chance to explore beyond bustling big-city hotspots. Malaysia’s lush Cameron Highlands took the crown for the most popular rural destination in Asia, followed by Khao Yai (Thailand) and Puncak (Indonesia) in the top three.

Rural destinations, particularly those nestled in mountains and hillsides, are gaining popularity among travelers seeking to immerse themselves in local culture and natural beauty. These charming highland locales offer a slower pace of life, allowing visitors to unwind and connect with the environment, away from the hustle and bustle of crowded urban hubs.

Agoda’s data, which ranks destinations across eight markets in Asia with a population under 50,000 based on accommodation searches made on Agoda between 15 February to 15 August 2025, also revealed that Fujikawaguchiko (Japan), Kenting (Taiwan), Sapa (Vietnam), Munnar (India), and Pyeongchang-gun (South Korea) earned a spot as the top eight rural destinations in Asia.

From the lush landscapes of Cameron Highlands in Malaysia to the serene beauty of Fujikawaguchiko in Japan, these secluded spots provide a distinct flavor and promise a refreshing escape from city life.

1. Cameron Highlands (Malaysia)
   Nestled in the heart of Malaysia, Cameron Highlands is renowned for its cool climate and stunning tea plantations. Travelers can explore lush green landscapes, visit vibrant flower gardens, and enjoy fresh produce from local farms. The highlands offer a peaceful retreat with opportunities for hiking and exploring charming villages.
2. Khao Yai (Thailand)
   Khao Yai is a nature lover’s paradise, home to Thailand’s oldest national park. Visitors can embark on wildlife safaris, explore waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic views from scenic viewpoints. The region’s rich biodiversity and outdoor activities make it a must-visit for adventure seekers.
3. Puncak (Indonesia)
   Located in West Java, Puncak is famous for its breathtaking mountain views and tea plantations. Travelers can enjoy a refreshing escape from the city, with opportunities for hiking, paragliding, and exploring local markets. The cool climate and natural beauty make Puncak a popular weekend getaway.
4. Fujikawaguchiko (Japan)
   Situated near Mount Fuji, Fujikawaguchiko offers stunning views of Japan’s iconic peak. Visitors can relax in hot springs, explore traditional Japanese gardens, and enjoy seasonal festivals. The town’s proximity to Mount Fuji makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural wonders.
5. Kenting (Taiwan)
   Kenting is a coastal gem known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Travelers can enjoy water sports, explore coral reefs, and relax on sandy shores. The region’s national park offers hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
6. Sapa (Vietnam)
   Sapa is a mountainous destination famous for its terraced rice fields and local villages. Visitors can trek through stunning landscapes, experience the unique culture, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Hoàng Liên Son mountain range. Sapa’s unrivaled charm and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination.
7. Munnar (India)
   Munnar is a hill station in Kerala known for its tea plantations and misty mountains. Travelers can explore lush green hills, visit tea museums, and enjoy wildlife sanctuaries. The region’s cool climate and natural beauty offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
8. Pyeongchang-gun (South Korea)
   Pyeongchang-gun is a winter wonderland, famous for hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The region’s beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions make it a year-round destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.

Jun Dong, Associate Vice President, said, “Agoda is thrilled to highlight these rural destinations that offer travelers a chance to experience the heart and soul of Asia. Whether you’re seeking an escape from big-city life or a refreshing change of scenery, Agoda’s platform offers seamless bookings across flights, accommodations and activities so you can experience the irresistible charm of these secluded rural gems first-hand.”

Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and start planning the next small-town adventure. Visit Agoda.com for more information.

— ENDS —

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Sept. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — O.NE PEOPLE Co., Ltd., a leading provider of data privacy and security solutions, today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Asosiasi Pengguna Jasa Sekuriti Indonesia (APJASI), the Indonesian Security Services Users Association. The agreement establishes a framework for bilateral cooperation in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector and marks an important milestone in O.NE PEOPLE’s strategic expansion into the Indonesian market.

The signing ceremony took place at the Grand Mercure Kemayoran in Jakarta, with senior representatives from both organizations in attendance, including Mr. Nam Junghyo, Director of O.NE PEOPLE, and Mr. Subkhan, Director of APJASI.

Under the MoU, O.NE PEOPLE and APJASI will work together to exchange insights on ICT industry trends, emerging technologies, and policy developments. The two organizations will also collaborate to expand business opportunities for their member companies, share market intelligence on the evolving ICT sector, and jointly explore additional areas of cooperation to support sustainable growth.

“This MoU represents a significant step in aligning O.NE PEOPLE’s proven technological expertise with the rapidly expanding security services sector in Indonesia,” said Mr. Nam Jeong-hyo, Director of O.NE PEOPLE. “We are committed to working closely with APJASI and its members to address local data protection challenges and to position CatchSecu as a trusted platform for safeguarding personal information.”

Through this collaboration, O.NE PEOPLE aims to strengthen its regional network and accelerate the rollout of its flagship data protection solution, CatchSecu, across Southeast Asian markets.

About O.NE PEOPLE

O.NE PEOPLE Co., Ltd. is a data security company specializing in SaaS-based privacy compliance solutions for enterprises. Its flagship platform, CatchSecu, automates complex compliance processes, enabling organizations to meet evolving regulatory requirements while focusing on core business growth. Building on its successful track record in Korea, O.NE PEOPLE is actively pursuing global expansion with a strategic focus on Southeast Asia.

About APJASI

The Asosiasi Pengguna Jasa Sekuriti Indonesia (APJASI) is the representative body for companies and institutions utilizing security services in Indonesia. The association is dedicated to promoting the interests of its members, advancing industry standards, and supporting the sustainable development of the Indonesian security services sector, with a particular emphasis on ICT innovation and policy cooperation.