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Singapore Sun by Dale Chihuly Shines at One Holland Village

Illuminating a collection of seven artworks by renowned artists and eight public art benches by designers – offering shoppers and art enthusiasts a unique community-inspired artistic experience


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 August 2024 – One Holland Village mall has unveiled its latest artwork, Singapore Sun by Dale Chihuly. Situated at the mall’s Village Green, the stunning artwork rounds up the carefully curated medley of seven art creations by notable local and international artists, and eight public art benches. Forming part of an Art Trail unique to One Holland Village, the artworks have transformed the mall into a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and the local community.

Dale Chihuly's Singapore Sun has brought a vibrant burst of colour to One Holland Village. © 2020 Chihuly Studio
Dale Chihuly’s Singapore Sun has brought a vibrant burst of colour to One Holland Village. © 2020 Chihuly Studio

Chihuly’s Singapore Sun

“It was an honour to present an exhibition at Gardens by the Bay in 2021 and I’m thrilled that the Singapore Sun now has a permanent home at Holland Village.” – Chihuly

Chihuly’s Singapore Sun is composed of over 1,500 hand-blown glass elements that together, make up an elaborate, intricate composition that demonstrates how the artist masses colour on a grand scale—a key characteristic of his installation works.

Shown in museums and gardens around the world, Chihuly conceived the first Sun sculpture in 1998. The Singapore Sun, inspired by the dramatic sunsets that grace our horizon, was created for Chihuly’s 2021 exhibition at Gardens by the Bay.

Discover One Holland Village’s Art Trail

In addition to the Singapore Sun, the One Holland Village Art Trail showcases a diverse collection of six other art installations and digital print art by celebrated local and international artists, three commissioned benches by home-grown award-winning designers, as well as five winning benches from the OHV Mill public bench design competition held in 2022.

Said Deborah Tan, Far East Organization’s Director for the Retail Business Group, “We envision One Holland Village as a melting pot for art from all over the world. International art pieces housed together with local creations demonstrate our dedication in supporting the art scene, cultivating budding talents, as well as making art accessible to all.”

With an eclectic mix of art forms in the mall, each of these seven artworks brings a distinctive style and perspective, creating a dynamic and immersive environment that invites exploration.

The creator of Dream Love Joy, interactive lighting display at One Holland Village’s pedestrian bridge, is local artist Lee Wei Lieh from Very Small Exhibition. Known for his lighting and “Very Momentary” art concepts, his work is recognised locally and internationally. He shared, “Dream Love Joy is inspired by the surprise and happiness of spotting a rainbow in the sky. I hope that when visitors are on the bridge, they feel welcomed and delighted as they engage with it, whether they are entering or leaving the mall.”

Expressed Ripple Root’s Estella Ng and Liquan Liew, whose Holland Village Dreaming digital print art encapsulated their memories of Holland Village, “The artwork serves as a time capsule, a window into the past that tells a story and evokes feelings of nostalgia, fondness and joy. The artwork aims to take the viewer on a journey, allowing them to discover something new each time they look at it.”

German artist Tomislav Topic, known for his abstract and colourful geometric art forms, created his first permanent outdoor installation, Interlude at One Holland Village. Adorning a large expanse of the roof, the artwork comprises 410 lacquered steel panels featuring a wide range of 41 distinct colour tones.

“Producing a permanent installation of this scale for Singapore’s weather conditions was challenging, but I wanted to bring a sea of colours to the Singapore sky, enticing everyone to look up and admire it,” revealed Tomislav. “It is my greatest desire to create works of art for public spaces that everyone can enjoy and experience, and One Holland Village made it possible for Interlude to do so.”

[please refer to the annex for the list of seven artworks and eight public art benches]

Enhancing the Community Experience

Deborah added, “Public art has the power to transform environments and inspire people. The diverse collection of artworks located around One Holland Village mall showcases our commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of our community, bringing a sense of wonder to those who encounter it. At the same time, it highlights the global and multicultural spirit that defines Holland Village.”

By integrating world-class installations and artworks into One Holland Village mall, it has added vibrancy to the space, and provided a platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue. These artworks are complemented by public art benches around the mall, which offer spaces for rest and reflection while celebrating the creativity and innovation of our community.

One Holland Village mall opened in December 2023 to a diverse mix of 90 tenants. Highlights include the first Singapore retail store of the popular international pet services and accessories brand Fur by Vetreska, Baker’s Brew’s first pet café Plain Meredith, highly sought-after Japanese dessert store Warabimochi Kamakura’s debut outlet in Singapore, and the flagship pet-friendly café by well-known Australian concept Surrey Hills.

Nestled in the heart of the well-loved Holland Village enclave, One Holland Village is thoughtfully conceptualised to complement and enhance the local nuances of this beloved neighbourhood, capturing the vibrancy and eclectic charm of the broader Holland Village precinct. Blending in with the quaint shophouses and streetscapes of its neighbourhood, the mall features a centrally situated community space, Village Square, and open-air dining and play areas. A well-shaded and naturally ventilated outdoor pet-friendly mall, the three-storey One Holland Village mall provides good pet walkability in the common areas with a mix of pet amenities.

Developed jointly by Sekisui House Limited (积水住宅株式会社), Sino Group (信和集团) and Far East Organization (远东机构), One Holland Village is a mixed-use development comprising a mall, offices, serviced apartments and residences.

One Holland Village Mall
Address: 7 Holland Village Way, Singapore 275748

Annex 1: List of Artists

  • Local Artists
Local Artist Artwork
Florence Ng Nostalgia

A unique glass-brick installation, it pays homage to the icons of Singapore’s old playgrounds such as the dragon, pelican and elephant. These colourful glass bricks form a lively mosaic that serves as a touching reminder of the simple joys that filled a child’s life before the digital age, inspiring viewers to pause and reflect on the timeless magic of play and human connection.

Jahan Loh Reconstituted Philosophies

Using popular ready-to-eat canned food as a medium to convey shifting cultural paradigms of Asian culture, the artist explores consumer culture while delving into his childhood memories. Made up of nine stainless steel installations, the pieces take on animalistic forms such as chicken feet beneath the chicken curry can.

Ripple Root Holland Village Dreaming

This artwork captures the essence of Holland Village, a place cherished by many. From the shophouse enclave to the iconic windmill, the artwork evokes a sense of nostalgia for this beautiful neighbourhood. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the past while embracing a future full of vibrant possibilities.

Very Small Exhibition Dream Love Joy

A light art installation situated on the ceiling of the One Holland Village bridge. Igniting into a mesmerising passage lit up by a dynamic rainbow, the experience is like an enchanting voyage brimming with dreams, love and joy.

  • International Artists
International Artist Artwork
Arik Levy FacetFormation 180 Corten

Made of corten steel, this artwork is inspired by recomposition, exemplifying the idea of looking through time while anticipating the future. This mirrors the sentiment of constant reinvention of Holland Village, from a plantation and former home of European settlers to a favoured place in the community.

Dale Chihuly Singapore Sun

Comprising over 1,500 hand-blown glass elements, this elaborate and intricate composition demonstrates the artist’s ability to use colour on a grand scale—a key characteristic of his installation works.

Tomislav Topić Interlude

Composed of 410 steel panels arranged in a precise manner and divided into 10 interconnected modules, the distinct colour tones on the panels blend and transition into each other. They create a sensory experience that complements and contrasts with the space at One Holland Village.

Annex 2: List of Public Art Bench Designers

Note: All Public Art Benches are made of Tembusu Wood

  • Commissioned Designers
Commissioned Designers Name of Art Bench
Hans Tan Studio Picnic

The Picnic bench blends the openness of sitting directly on the ground with the functionality of a bench as an intermediary. It plays on these typologies to highlight the social aspirations of people in public spaces. The postures it allows evoke “Western” idyllic summer scenes of lounging on the lawn and “Eastern” traditions of sitting on the floor. This blend of expatriate influence and local character captures the distinctive social fabric of Holland Village.

MKPL Tembusu Bench

The Tembusu Bench is designed to evoke the charm of handcrafted wood. The edge of the Tembusu plank highlights the tree’s textures and patterns, inviting touch and encouraging fingers to trace its curves until they find a resting place. The interlocking wood joinery, with its seamless mystery, forms a delightful puzzle for the curious to explore and admire.

Studio Juju A Wonderful Bench

A Wonderful Bench is envisioned as a place for creating beautiful memories. It is imagined to be big and long, inviting children to walk on it, couples to chat on it, and families to rest on it.

How wonderful this shared experience will be.

  • MILL Public Art Bench Design Competition Winners

The MILL Public Art Bench Design Competition ran from December 2021 to April 2022. Organised in collaboration with award-winning homegrown cross-disciplinary design practice FARM, the MILL Public Art Bench Competition taps into the community’s love for Holland Village to bring unique design inspiration to life, delivering evocative public artworks that offer utility while paying homage to the precinct.

MILL Design Competition Winners Name of Art Bench
Christophe Gaubert, Cynthia Chan, Poh Yun Ru, Tan Weijing

Designers from NUS Design Incubation Centre (DIC)

Sampan

The Sampan benches are a tribute to the spirit of welcome and the emulation felt by all travellers discovering a culture that they will end up making their own. Like boats approaching a new land, the Sampan participate in the dynamics of the place and the flow of passers-by. They are an invitation to rest, enjoy the urban landscape and discuss and exchange different perspectives.

Their varied sizes and coloured lacquered sides express the diversity of origins that make up local culture.

Hai-png (Heffrence) Teow More Than A Bench

Inspired by the vibrant surroundings, this design features multiple benches arranged organically to create a natural, rhythmic quality. It represents an informal social space where human interaction is driven by spontaneity. More than just a bench, it celebrates diversity and facilitates community.

Hector Arturo Salazar ASPA

Inspired by the traditional windmill blades and the vibrant Holland Village neighbourhood, this practical bench design embodies the values of inclusivity and diversity. Accessibility is a key factor in fostering a sense of community. The bench must be usable by everyone, including being wheelchair and pram friendly.

Jan Abigail Ampo Juarez, Li Xing Tong, Low Yi Jun

Architecture Students of Singapore Polytechnic

Comfort

Inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of Chip Bee Gardens and Lorong Liput, Comfort features a unique anthropomorphic form. It adapts to the rhythms of day and night, offering an upright structure for daytime activities and a more reclined position for nighttime relaxation. By seamlessly blending functionality with the distinctive experiences of each time of day, the bench becomes a versatile space that accommodates diverse activities and fosters a sense of connection to the environment and its evolving atmospheres.

Muhammad ‘Ammar Bin Mohamad Malek The Boing Boing Bench

Inspired by the quaint and vibrant quality of Holland Village, the Boing Boing Bench seeks to bring out our playful side, reminiscent of the springy playground rides. Anchored by steel springs, the bench sways gently, inviting curious passers-by to take a seat. The bench comes to life with movements from people, creating a picture of liveliness and spirited energy. This is a beautiful reminder that as we embrace the volatile nature of life, we should not forget to have fun along the way.

Hashtag: #OHVSingaporeSun #OneHollandV #FarEastMalls #ArtatFarEast



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

About Sekisui House Limited (Sekisuihouse.co.jp)

Sekisui House Limited is the largest leading housing company in Japan with involvement in a variety of real estate developments, from residential homes to the development of mixed-use properties and master-planned communities. Founded in 1960, the company has built a cumulative 2.4 million houses. Sekisui House, headquartered in Osaka, also has offices in Australia, China, Singapore and the USA.

About Sino Group (Sino.com)

Sino Group is one of the leading property developers in Hong Kong with core business in developing residential, office, industrial and retail properties for sale and investment. The Group is also a major player in hotel investment and management, club management, property management, car park operations as well as environmental and security services. With a team of over 10,000 dedicated professionals, Sino Group strives to consistently deliver quality properties and services that surpass the expectations of customers.

About Far East Organization (www.fareast.com.sg)

Far East Organization is a Christian Enterprise, which develops real estate and operates businesses by serving with grace, love, integrity and honesty. Together with its Hong Kong-based sister company Sino Group, they are one of Asia’s largest real estate groups, with operations in Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong and China. Far East Organization is the largest private property developer in Singapore, having developed over 780 developments across all segments of real estate including 55,000 private homes in Singapore since its establishment in 1960. Far East Organization includes three listed entities: Far East Orchard Limited, Far East Hospitality Trust and Yeo Hiap Seng Limited. Far East Organization is the winner of 14 FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence awards, the highest honour in international real estate.

Banyan Group the Most Awarded Developer for Asia/Pacific in the International Property Awards 2024/5

The Group scoops no less than 12 accolades in the prestigious awards


PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 August 2024 – Banyan Group Residences, one of the leading and most pioneering property developers in Thailand has received an impressive 12 accolades in this year’s Asia Pacific International Property Awards 2024-25, more than any other developer in the region.

The prestigious awards celebrate the highest levels of achievement by companies operating in all sectors of the property and real estate industry.

“An International Property Award is a world-renowned mark of excellence and so we are thrilled to have secured no less than 12 accolades this year, said Banyan Group Founder and Executive Chairman K P Ho.

Banyan Group Residences secured the highest number of awards of any developer in Thailand.

“This recognition is a true testament to the hard work and talent of our entire team. Our dedication to innovation, exceptional design, and creating amazing experiences for our customers has led us to become a leader in Thailand’s luxury development. The awards solidify our position to keep pushing the boundaries of luxury living in Asia and beyond,” said Mr Ho.

The 2024-2025 International Property Awards won by Banyan Group Residences are as follows:

  • Banyan Tree Grand Residences Phuket Lagoon Pool Villas: Winner – Residential Development in the category of 10-19 Units for Thailand.
  • Banyan Tree Residences Beach Residences: Winner – Luxury Condominium Development for Thailand.
  • Banyan Tree Residences Creston Hill: Winner across 5 categories: Development Marketing, Residential Development (20+ Units), Apartment Development, Mixed Use Architecture, and Mixed-Use Development for Thailand.
  • Laguna Lakelands: Lakeview Residences: Double winner – Residential Development of 20+ Units for Thailand, and Condominium Development for Thailand.
  • Banyan Group Website: Winner – Developer Website for Thailand.

Banyan Group Residences, proud recipients of 12 Asia Pacific International Property Awards 2024-25

Banyan Group Residences, proud recipients of 12 Asia Pacific International Property Awards

From left to right,

  • Mr. Dung Pung, Business Planning Mgr., Group Property Development, Banyan Group
  • Mr. Roy Lau, SAVP, Group Property Development, Banyan Group
  • Mr. KP Ho, Founder & Executive Chairman, Banyan Tree Holdings
  • Mr. Stuart Reading, Managing Director, Group Property Development, Banyan Group
  • Mr. Niphon Kitisook, SAVP, Development Director, Group Property Development, Banyan Group
  • Ms. Angkana Sae-loo, Director of Sales, Group Property Development, Banyan Group

Hashtag: #BanyanGroup

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

About Banyan Group

Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans across 80 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme withBanyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

ASEAN Leaders Urge Boost in Care Economy Investment to Empower Women, Drive Inclusive Growth

Photo supplied by UN Women

By the United Nations Women Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific


Southeast Asian nations can expand women’s economic participation and thus spur more equitable growth and development by investing in the care economy. A new UN Women data snapshot titled Women’s Economic Empowerment and the Care Economy in ASEAN, released before the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Women Leaders’ Summit in Vientiane on 23 August, supports the adoption of the new ASEAN Declaration on Strengthening the Care Economy and Resilience Towards ASEAN Community Post-2025.

The data snapshot shows that women’s participation in the region’s labor force is systematically lower than men’s partly due to women’s unequal share of care responsibilities in households. In addition, many of the paid caregiving jobs held by women are in the informal economy in which workers are especially vulnerable.

The data snapshot points to the structural barriers to gender equality in the world of work and calls for transforming care systems to increase opportunities for women and girls to fully participate in economies and societies.

The data snapshot says that expanding care services, such as kindergartens, and enhancing care-supporting workplaces through parental leave can ease the time constraints on women and girls with care responsibilities.  Improving the status of women workers in the care economy requires expanding social protections and improving labor conditions, including wages, equal opportunities, and freedom from discrimination, harassment and violence.

The snapshot says that to uphold the promise to leave no one behind, efforts to transform care systems need to include vulnerable groups such as girls, single women with children, and women in old age.

“Gender data shows that one of the biggest obstacles to women’s economic empowerment is the unequal burden of unpaid care and domestic work on women,” said Christine Arab, Regional Director of UN Women Asia and the Pacific. “By addressing structural barriers and improving working conditions and compensation through gender-transformative policies and programs, we can create an environment that offers equal opportunities, empowers women, and promotes economic rights for everyone in ASEAN.”

Thailand Reports Possible Mpox Case as WHO Declares Global Health Emergency

World Health Organization

Thailand has detected a possible case of mpox in a 66-year-old European man who arrived from an undisclosed African country on 14 August. Health officials are currently awaiting test results to confirm whether the patient is infected with the Clade 1b variant, which has recently raised global alarm for its increased transmissibility.

The man has been isolated in a hospital while further tests are conducted.

This case marks the first potential instance of the Clade 1 variant being detected in Thailand. Since 2022, Thailand has recorded 800 cases of the Clade 2 variant but has not previously encountered Clade 1 or Clade 1b.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. However, the WHO has emphasized that while mpox is serious, it is not comparable to the scale of the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus, which causes fever, muscle aches, and distinctive boil-like skin lesions, has a well-established profile and control measures. However, it can be fatal in severe cases.

Mpox mainly spreads through direct contact with infected animals or people, consuming contaminated meat, or through sexual contact. It can also be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy.

Clade 1b, a newer and more virulent strain, has been responsible for recent surges in cases across the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda since July. 

The global health community is closely monitoring this development as efforts to manage and contain the outbreak continue.

DHL names last-mile mobility startup as sustainability challenge winner

  • Winner is TUX mobility, an innovative startup in solar-powered cargo vehicle
  • DHL Fast Forward Challenge: Sustainable Solutions Asia Pacific edition is the fourth edition in the series and was recently held in Singapore
  • Three innovators were shortlisted as finalists, who will work with DHL to provide expert support in implementing the technology in Asia Pacific

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 August 2024 – DHL has named TUX mobility the winner of its latest Fast Forward Challenge. Headquartered in the Netherlands and producing in India, TUX mobility is a developer of the world’s first solar-powered, light electric cargo vehicle that charges itself while driving. The latest edition of DHL Fast Forward Challenge: Sustainable Solutions was held recently in Singapore at the DHL Era of Sustainable Logistics Asia Pacific Chapter. The Challenge aims to identify the most promising innovator that provides viable, sustainable solutions that could enhance the logistics and supply chain industry. TUX mobility brings a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative for last-mile delivery targeting the Asian market.

DHL names new winner for latest Fast Forward Challenge: Sustainable Solutions APAC Edition
DHL names new winner for latest Fast Forward Challenge: Sustainable Solutions APAC Edition

With the ongoing growth of e-commerce and on-demand delivery services, alternative options to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles are crucial to reducing carbon emissions for last-mile delivery. TUX mobility’s solution effectively meets this demand for electric and alternative low-carbon delivery vehicles.

TUX mobility pitting themselves against two other finalists at the Fast Forward Challenge
TUX mobility pitting themselves against two other finalists at the Fast Forward Challenge

“A sustainable economy needs sustainable logistics. The latest Fast Forward Challenge aims to connect innovative startups offering viable, sustainable solutions for logistics and supply chains with DHL,” said Katja Busch, Chief Commercial Officer at DHL and Head of Customer Solutions & Innovation. “We saw many great ideas, such as those from the finalists: TUX mobility, Planet Protector and BANF. Planet Protector uses sheep wool to replace polystyrene for insulation. BANF is an Internet of Things start-up using tire sensors to reduce fuel consumption, increase tire lifespan, and enhance safety for vehicles. We look forward to working with all finalists, together with our customers and partners, to help scale and implement some of these solutions in Asia Pacific to materialize the environmental impact.”

The latest edition of the Fast Forward Challenge saw businesses, start-ups, and innovators worldwide submit their ideas and solutions to address sustainability challenges in logistics. Among the submissions received, 28% sought to make packaging and containers more sustainable, 22% wanted to improve the carbon footprint of transport services, and 15% aimed to tackle sustainability in the built environment. The rest pursued various topics such as creating new sustainable business models and circular economy practices.

TUX mobility’s victory in the Fast Forward Challenge allows them to start a joint pilot project with DHL in the Asia Pacific region. They will also receive expert support from the DHL innovation team to further develop and implement their solar-powered cargo vehicle on a larger scale.

“We are so happy to have won this Fast Forward Challenge. This gives us a lot of confidence to proceed on the path that we have chosen. Together with DHL, we will push solar mobility and aim to transform global logistics, decrease carbon emissions, and do more to reduce the impact of climate change,” Laurens Janssen, co-founder at TUX mobility B.V.

With innovation and sustainability deeply embedded in its culture, DHL has driven various initiatives like the Fast Forward Challenge and the DHL Era of Sustainable Logistics to focus on the development of sustainable logistics solutions. DHL believes in joining forces with different partners and providers to further foster collaboration, realize the concepts and accelerate the transition towards a lower carbon emissions logistics landscape.
Hashtag: #DHL #Innovation #Sustainability #DHLFastForwardChallenge


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

DHL – The logistics company for the world

DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With about 395,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.​

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of more than 81.8 billion euros in 2023. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

CPA Australia Survey: AI adoption by Mainland Chinese businesses escalates


SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 August 2024 – The adoption of Artificial intelligence (AI) among Mainland Chinese companies has increased steadily over the past three years and is expected to surge in the next 12 months.

CPA Australia's Business Technology Survey 2024
CPA Australia’s Business Technology Survey 2024

Nearly half of surveyed accounting and finance professionals in Mainland China expect their business will increase the use of AI in the next 12 months, more than double the number from the previous year (48 per cent vs 20 per cent), according to a new survey by one of the world’s largest professional accounting organisations, CPA Australia.

CPA Australia’s Business Technology Survey 2024 also showed that 44 per cent of respondents in Mainland China said their business increased investment in or upgraded technologies in the past 12 months. When asked about their plans in the next 12 months, 81 per cent expect to increase the use of technology, with increasing the use of AI (48 per cent) the top choice, followed by data analytics and visualisation software (43 per cent) and business intelligence software (37 per cent).

In the past 12 months, 72 per cent of respondents in Mainland China reported their businesses have applied AI, the third consecutive year of growth in AI adoption. In addition, 29 per cent said their businesses used AI all the time, up 10 per cent from last survey.

CPA Australia’s East and Central China Committee Deputy President Mr Collin Jin FCPA (Aust.) said: “Government’s supportive policies and the rapid maturity of technologies such as generative AI and large language model (LLM), created favorable conditions for Mainland Chinese businesses to embrace AI. By integrating AI, Mainland Chinese businesses are poised to improve their decision-making through better data analytics, streamline operations and improve efficiency by automating routine tasks, and reduce costs. Strategic investments into AI not only fortifies the competitive edge of the businesses but also elevates their contributions within the value chain, paving the way for innovative growth in the digital economy.

“Currently, the adoption of AI is still at a preliminary stage for many Mainland Chinese businesses. According to the survey, 72 per cent of respondents indicated that they adopted AI to a limited or moderate extent in their businesses. In the future, to further promote AI’s technology and integrate it with our real economy, companies should keep enhancing their data capabilities, from acquiring to utilizing it in different application scenarios. Only continuous investment in data will advance AI’s application, helping companies to transform towards a more intelligent and competitive business model.

Financial costs and low return on investment were identified as the top barrier to adopt technologies in businesses in Mainland China. Most respondents in other Asia-Pacific markets said their business experienced the same challenges.

Jin recommended: “Facing global economic uncertainties, investing into cutting-edge technologies such as generative AI and LLM has become more complex for companies. They should focus on their core business and apply a more comprehensive evaluation mechanism or ROI model to monitor and measure the actual impact of technology applications on operational performance. This will help them to better optimise their technology investments and upgrades.

“In addition, we also recommend the business to embed technology innovation and digital transformation within their globalisation plan to capitalise on global digital economy opportunities.”

However, the increasing adoption of digital technologies boosted concerns over security. The survey results show that cybersecurity is the most widely applied technology among Mainland Chinese businesses (91 per cent) in the past 12 months. Three quarters of respondents stated that their businesses used cybersecurity software all the time, and more than half (55 per cent) reported that their businesses increased the cybersecurity protections.

Such investments into cybersecurity brought positive results. In the past 12 months, nearly half (48 per cent) of the Mainland Chinese respondents believe that their businesses’ cybersecurity proficiency is above average. Further, 60 per cent of the respondents stated that their businesses did not lose any time or money due to a cybersecurity incident. As a result, 36 per cent of the respondents predict that their businesses will increase the use of cybersecurity software in the next 12 months.

CPA Australia’s South China Committee Deputy President Mr Tony Chan FCPA (Aust.) said: “Effective governance is key to harnessing the full potential of these transformative technologies while mitigating risks. As digital threats become more sophisticated, conventional cybersecurity and data security is not enough. It is critical for businesses to regularly review their existing cybersecurity tools and measures to ensure they are updated against threats from new technologies and vicious attacks.

“Nowadays, many regions such as the European Union, have formulated or plan to introduce regulations on AI governance. Those Mainland Chinese businesses planning to expand overseas, should consider taking steps to improve AI governance to meet such requirements. This may include developing clear policies and procedures to guide ethical development, deployment, application, and monitoring AI’s adoption across the organisation.

Further, the survey results show 39 per cent of respondents in Mainland China said that their business increased the number of employees with technology and data analytical skills in the past 12 months, 8 percentage points higher than last year. Further, 53 per cent said their business upskilled and/or reskilled existing employees to address the shortage of technology talent.

Chan said: “Building a future-ready workforce, proficient in the foundational logic of machine learning and artificial intelligence, is a key competitive advantage for businesses’ sustainable development in the medium to long term. Businesses should maintain their focus on cultivating an innovation-driven culture and providing comprehensive upskilling or reskilling training for employees at all levels.”

CPA Australia collected 1,060 responses from accounting and finance professionals in various industries across Asia Pacific including Mainland China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Australia from June to July 2024 for the Business Technology Survey, with 207 respondents from Mainland China. About one-third of Mainland Chinese respondents hold C-suite or other senior level positions.

Read CPA Australia’s Business Technology Survey 2024
Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the largest professional accounting bodies in the world, with more than 172,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 22,500 members in Greater China. We have offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national, and international issues affecting the accounting profession and the public interest. We advocate for policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at

Seafood Expo Asia to Showcase Largest International Representation of Exhibitors at its 2024 Edition in Singapore

  • Seafood and processing equipment and service companies from 46 countries have confirmed their presence.
  • The Expo provides seafood professionals with a platform to discover new products and innovations, identify new opportunities and markets, keep up to date with market trends and build relationships with new suppliers and partners.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 August 2024 – Seafood Expo Asia, organized by Diversified Communications, taking place 4-6 September at Sands Expo Convention Centre in Singapore, will feature the largest international representation of seafood and processing equipment exhibitors from 46 countries. New to this year’s Expo will be country participation from Azerbaijan, Brazil, Denmark, Morocco, New Caledonia, Qatar, Scotland, Sri Lanka and Venezuela and new regional/national pavilions from Japan, Morocco and Saudi Arabia. Other countries participating will include Australia, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, France, Germany, India, Netherlands, Norway, Mauritius, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam and more.

Photo courtesy of Seafood Expo Asia (1)

The exhibit floor will feature seafood companies highlighting their latest seafood offerings and best practices in sustainability and aquaculture. Seafood companies represented at this year’s Expo include AquaChile, Arakou Fishery LTD., AquaPri A/S, Blumar Seafoods, Caleta Bay Mar SpA, Coast Seafood AS, Cultimer, Ferme Marine de Mahebourg Ltd, Geraldton Fishermen’s Co-op, Hofseth International AS, Marennes Oleron Oysters, I.D.I. Corporation, Loch Duart Salmon, Nordic Kingfish A/S, Seaborn A/S, Sjor AS, South African Farmed Abalone Export Council, The Pirates Co., Ltd., The Seafood Company Pte Ltd., Vinh Hoan Corporation, Zalmhuys Group and more.

Seafood professionals and decision-makers from industries including airlines, cruise lines, distributors, caterers, hotels, importers, processors, restaurants, supermarkets, wholesalers and more will attend the event searching for new suppliers, products and trends. High-volume buyers will participate in the business matchmaking program, designed to connect them with seafood exhibitors. Participating companies at this year’s Expo include Big C Supercenter Co., Ltd, Central Food Wholesales Ltd., CJ Freshway, EB Services Company Limited, Emart, ITM Alimentaire International, Japanese Consumers’ Co-operative Union, Royal Seafood International Trading Company Limited, SMSI/ Sysco, Trendcell Sdn Bhd (Jaya Grocer) and Yonghui Superstores and more.

Photo courtesy of Seafood Expo Asia (2)

Companies showcasing their aquaculture technologies, state-of-the-art processing equipment and service solutions will include Baader Asia PTE. LTD., D&D Electronics, Co., Ltd, GUNZE LIMITED, Jaw Feng Machinery Co., Ltd and more. FrostiX Co., Ltd. will demonstrate their freezing technology HybridICE, which focuses on cellular level freezing to enhance food quality and safety, and Alpha Aqua A/S will showcase their Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) technology.

“We are thrilled to participate in Seafood Expo Asia for the first time,” said Yasin Kasa, Chief Commercial Officer, Alpha Aqua A/S. “This event provides an excellent platform to showcase our innovative and sustainable Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) technology. We believe that our solutions will not only meet the growing demands for efficient aquaculture but also contribute to a more sustainable future for seafood production. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders and attendees to discuss how our cutting-edge technologies can shape the future of aquaculture.”

Special events on the exhibit floor will engage attendees in educational sessions and competitive activities. Day one and day two of the Expo will include the Young Chef Challenge, where culinary students and professional chefs under the age of 25 will compete in various onsite challenges for a panel of judges. Judges include Eric Neo, Executive Chef, Capella Singapore and President of Singapore Chefs’ Association and the Chairperson of the Asian Culinary Institute Panel of Chefs, Hirofumi Imamura, Chef/Owner, IMAMURA and Ken Loon Tan, Founder, Naked Finn and Co-Owner, Kelly Private Ltd.

Other onsite events will include the Oyster Challenge, a three-round competition where chefs will shuck oysters and creatively pair them with the best sauces, and the Seafood Excellence Asia awards competition, which will recognize the best new seafood products at the Expo.

Seafood industry professionals can learn more about Seafood Expo Asia, find information on the conference program and other special events and register to attend for free by visiting www.seafoodexpo.com/asia.

Hashtag: #SEASIA24

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

About Seafood Expo Asia

is a trade event where buyers from across Asia and industry suppliers from around the world come together to network and conduct business in the lucrative Asian market. The event is produced by Diversified Communications and takes place annually in Asia. is the exposition’s official media covering industry news year-round.

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About Diversified Communications

Diversified Communications is a leading international media company with a portfolio of face-to-face exhibitions and conferences, online communities and digital and print publications. As producers of these market-leading products Diversified Communications connects, educates and strengthens business communities in over 15 industries including: food and beverage, healthcare, natural and organic, business management and technology. The company’s global seafood portfolio of expositions and media includes Seafood Expo North America/Seafood Processing North America, Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global, Seafood Expo Asia and SeafoodSource.com. Established in 1949 and headquartered in Portland, Maine, USA with divisions and offices around the world, Diversified Communications remains a privately held, third generation, family-owned business. For more information, visit: .

SUNRATE partners with Vietnam Chamber of Commerce Singapore

Collaborative Effort Set to Accelerate Growth and Expansion of Vietnamese Enterprises in Singapore


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 August 2024 – SUNRATE, an intelligent global payment and treasury management platform announced that it has entered into a partnership with Vietnam Chamber of Commerce (VietCham Singapore) to empower Vietnamese enterprises looking to scale and operate in Singapore.

As part of the partnership, members of VietCham Singapore can now tap into the resources and expertise of SUNRATE’s Singapore and Vietnam business development representatives to help them navigate the complex world of international business expansion. This includes the capabilities to make payments via SUNRATE’s business account to more than 190 countries and regions, transact in 130+ currencies and enjoy global collection services available in over 30 currencies, and collect funds in over 10 major international currencies as if they were local payments.

Li Tao, Head of Growth, SUNRATE said, “As the leading global B2B payment platform for Emerging Asia, we are always exploring opportunities for like-minded partners such as VietCham Singapore. Our cutting-edge products and high-touch customer-centric services will empower and provide significant value for VietCham members as they seek to set up and scale their operations in Singapore”.

Mr Max Nguyen, Director of Viet Nam of Vietnam Chamber of Commerce Singapore, said “Partnering with SUNRATE is a strategic move that enables VietCham Singapore to offer more value-added services to our members while enhancing the organization’s reputation and influence. This collaboration will contribute to the growth of Vietnamese businesses in Singapore, helping them operate more efficiently and expand into international markets”

Recently, SUNRATE also announced its official launch in Vietnam, as the company continues to strengthen its global footprint, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.

Hashtag: #SUNRATE #VietChamSingapore

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

About SUNRATE

SUNRATE is an intelligent global payment and treasury management platform for businesses worldwide. Since its inception in 2016, SUNRATE has been recognised as a leading solution provider and has enabled companies to operate and scale both locally and globally in 190+ countries and regions with its cutting-edge proprietary platform, extensive global network, and robust APIs.

With its global business headquarters in Singapore and offices in Hong Kong, Jakarta, London, and Shanghai, SUNRATE partners with the top global financial institutions, such as Citibank, Standard Chartered, Barclays, J.P. Morgan, and is the principal member of both Mastercard and Visa.

To learn more about SUNRATE, visit https://www.sunrate.com/

About Vietnam Chamber of Commerce Singapore

The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (https://vietcham.org.sg/), hereinafter referred to as “VietCham Singapore” was founded in 2013 with the primary objective of fostering a cohesive network for Vietnamese enterprises operating in Singapore.

Vietcham steadfastly committed to facilitating the success of their members. Should you be seeking to forge invaluable business affiliations, acquire comprehensive insights into the Singaporean market, enhance your professional acumen and sector-specific expertise, or avail of our diverse range of services, VietCham Singapore stands poised to assist.

VietCham acts as an effective bridge for individuals and organizations to promote commercial and trade relations between Vietnam and Singapore, bringing mutual benefits to both sides.