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Two-Thirds of Employees in The Philippines are Considering Changing Employers in 2025, Aon Study Finds


MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2025 – Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, today released results from its 2025 Human Capital Employee Sentiment Study. The global study of more than 9,000 employees across 23 geographies, including the U.S., China, India and Japan, found that a majority of workers in the Philippines are looking at their next move and seek better employee benefits to respond to rising costs and mental wellbeing issues.

Aon’s study reveals that 64 percent of employees in the Philippines are either in the process of moving employers or might seek new employment in the next 12 months. Tight competition for talent highlights the need for employers to place a strong focus on total rewards to meet the evolving expectations of their workforce.

Josef Ayson – growth lead for Talent Solutions for the Philippines at Aon said, “Competition for skilled talent is increasing across the Philippines. This affects not just Manila where the right talent is more readily available but also in cities like Cebu, Davao, and other islands within the archipelago. In such an environment, managing and retaining employees is important for firms to remain competitive. Compensation strategies based on the latest data and analytics from their own organisations as well as the market, can help companies make more informed decisions on attracting and retaining employees in this evolving workforce landscape.”

The survey further revealed that medical coverage, paid time off and work-life balance programs have increased in value for the Philippines’ workforce. Eighty-three percent of those surveyed said that they would be willing to sacrifice existing benefits for a better choice of benefits, illustrating the need for flexibility and personalisation.

The top five valued benefits for the Philippines workforce are:

  • Medical coverage
  • Paid time off
  • Work-life balance programs
  • Career development
  • Retirement savings

“Amid continued economic volatility and the rising cost of living, there is a growing expectation for employers to provide medical coverage and support for mental and financial wellbeing, said Cris Rosenthal, strategic advisory lead for Health Solutions for the Philippines at Aon. “Employers must rethink their approach to employee benefits balancing wages with flexible benefits to attract and retain the talent they need.”

The impact of the rising cost of living has also led worker to prioritize financial wellbeing. Sixty-five percent of employees said that employers should help employees save for retirement/long-term needs and 58 percent believe employers must provide financial education. This highlights the importance for organisations to make informed decisions using insights and robust market data to create a holistic employee value proposition aligned with employee needs and expectations.

Read Aon’s Employee Sentiment Study here.Hashtag: #Aon

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

About Aon

(NYSE: AON) exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues provide clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that protect and grow their businesses.

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Disclaimer
The information contained in this document is solely for information purposes, for general guidance only and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although Aon endeavours to provide accurate and timely information and uses sources that it considers reliable, the firm does not warrant, represent or guarantee the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, or fitness for any purpose of any content of this document and can accept no liability for any loss incurred in any way by any person who may rely on it. There can be no guarantee that the information contained in this document will remain accurate as on the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No individual or entity should make decisions or act based solely on the information contained herein without appropriate professional advice and targeted research.

Southern Star Research Applauded by Frost & Sullivan for Delivering Comprehensive Clinical Trial Solutions and Its Competitive Strategies

Southern Star sets itself apart in the CRO market through a unique combination of trust, operational advantages, deep industry expertise, and a strong commitment to local resources.

SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan recently analyzed the biotechnology contract research organization (CRO) industry and, based on its findings, recognizes Southern Star Research with the 2024 Asia-Pacific Competitive Strategy Leadership Award. The company is a full-service CRO specializing in guiding sponsors through the intricate process of bringing new medical products to market. Southern Star is a vital intermediary between small biotech companies in North America and Europe and clinical trial sites in Australia. Starting with a team of three, the company successfully conducted its first clinical trial in the cardiovascular sector and has expanded into an international team of specialists managing studies across the globe. Southern Star offers comprehensive support for early-phase clinical trials, leveraging its extensive expertise and strong industry relationships for safe and efficient trial initiation. It also offers comprehensive clinical operations, expert biometrics, safety and medical monitoring, medical writing services, and later-phase clinical trials across the APAC region.

The company is a full-service CRO specializing in guiding sponsors through the intricate process of bringing new medical products to market.
The company is a full-service CRO specializing in guiding sponsors through the intricate process of bringing new medical products to market.

Southern Star positions itself as a service provider and a trusted ally, focusing on personalized support rather than transactional relationships. This approach distinguishes it from larger CROs and pharma companies, which prioritize volume over individual client needs. The company leverages a combination of cost-effectiveness, high-quality outcomes, and reduced regulatory bureaucracy in Australia to deliver swift and effective solutions that allow biotech firms to bring their products to market more efficiently. Southern Star employs strategic partnerships and a focused approach for effective clinical trial management, particularly in later phases. Recognizing that biotech firms and small pharma companies often prefer a one-stop shop for their Phase 3 trials, the company collaborates with various laboratories. These strategic alliances enable Southern Star to act as a comprehensive outsourced solution for clients—a capability that enhances its attractiveness to biotechs seeking a streamlined study process as it gives them access to necessary lab services through a trusted partner.

Ojaswi Rana, best practices research analyst at Frost & Sullivan, observed, “Southern Star’s commitment to customer value chain compression expertly reduces trial complexity and accelerates time-to-market for new medical products. By offering seamless, integrated solutions across all phases of clinical trials, the company improves efficiency and ensures that sponsors meet regulatory demands while optimizing resources. This strategic approach shortens development timelines significantly, providing sponsors with a clear competitive advantage in bringing innovative therapies to market swiftly and cost-effectively.”

Southern Star’s dedication to employing only local staff sets it apart from many competitors, a strategy critical for maximizing the Australian government’s research and development (R&D) tax incentives. The company employs highly specialized statisticians and maintains close relationships with them, giving it an edge over competitors who often struggle to find and retain such talent. Ensuring that all necessary skills are sourced locally enables Southern Star to provide high-quality services while remaining compliant with government regulations regarding tax incentives. By setting itself apart in a competitive landscape, Southern Star achieves exceptional client satisfaction and positions itself as a vital ally in navigating the complexities of clinical trials and ultimately driving successful outcomes. It employs a proactive, relationship-driven approach that emphasizes trust and personal connection. Its pivotal differentiation element is the profound trust established between the company and its clients.

“Southern Star minimizes bureaucratic hurdles, reduces the number of steps in the customer journey, and accelerates the timeline from trial initiation to results reporting. Furthermore, it strategically aligns its operations with transformative megatrends, such as the expedited regulatory changes prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This alignment positions the company to capitalize on new opportunities and improve operational efficiency, solidifying its status as a critical player in the dynamic biotech industry,” added Ojaswi. With its strong overall performance, Southern Star earns Frost & Sullivan’s 2024 Asia-Pacific Competitive Strategy Leadership Award in the biotech CRO industry.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has leveraged competitive intelligence to successfully execute a strategy that results in stronger market share, competitive brand positioning, and customer satisfaction.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, megatrends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion. Contact us: Start the discussion.

Contact:

Tarini Singh
E: tarini.singh@frost.com

About Southern Star Research

Southern Star Research is a full-service Contract Research Organization (CRO) dedicated to navigating the complexities of bringing new medical products to market. With a legacy of excellence that began 14 years ago in Sydney, we have grown from a small, passionate team into a global network of experts committed to delivering high-quality services in medical writing, clinical monitoring, project management, biostatistics, data management, safety and medical monitoring, and quality assurance.

Southern Star Research has been recognized for its outstanding contributions to the field, winning prestigious awards such as the Frost and Sullivan 2024 Asia-Pacific Competitive Strategy Leadership Award and being named as Great Place to Work in Australia in 2024. Our international team continues to deliver innovative clinical trial solutions across diverse therapeutic areas, ensuring the success of every study we manage.

Mafengwo AI Intelligent Application Integrates with DeepSeek Model, Leading the Intelligent Transformation of the Tourism Industry

BEIJING, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As DeepSeek’s cutting-edge technology rapidly expands across industries, Mafengwo announced the integration of its self-developed AI application with the DeepSeek large language model. In the initial phase, the upgrade will prioritize the already launched provincial-level smart tourism ecosystem —”AI Travel Guizhou,” “AI Travel Qianxinan,” and “AI Travel Xijiang”— further enhancing the intelligence and quality of travel services in Guizhou Province.

As China’s first provincial-level, comprehensive smart tourism platform, “AI Travel Guizhou” has garnered significant attention since its launch for its robust functionality. During the Spring Festival holiday, it provided personalized services to a large number of travelers visiting Guizhou. Now, within just one month of its launch, the platform has achieved another milestone by integrating the DeepSeek model. The upgraded “AI Travel Guizhou” not only frees users from time-consuming tasks like itinerary planning, hotel selection, and transportation coordination but also delivers hyper-personalized and thoughtful recommendations tailored to individual preferences.

The DeepSeek model aligns seamlessly with the Chain-of-Thought (CoT) reasoning framework adopted by “AI Travel Guizhou.” As the first tourism application leveraging CoT technology, “AI Travel Guizhou” simulates human-like logical reasoning when crafting itineraries — starting with “user demand analysis,” followed by “scenic spot relevance evaluation,” and finally achieving a dynamic balance of “time, transportation, and energy consumption.” This approach significantly improves itinerary rationality and user satisfaction.

For example, when planning a “5-day family trip to Guizhou,” “AI Travel Guizhou” first identifies safety and entertainment needs for families, then filters age-appropriate attractions like Huangguoshu Waterfall and Xijiang Thousand Households Miao Village. Next, it calculates travel times between locations and generates a well-paced schedule. Additionally, it offers tailored tips based on local conditions, such as winter clothing advice and dietary recommendations.


Mafengwo’s decade-long accumulation of massive real-world travel data serves as a critical foundation for this technological advancement. User-generated content — including travelogues, guides, notes, and POI (point-of-interest) information — creates a feedback loop with DeepSeek’s reasoning model. Each itinerary generated by “AI Travel Guizhou” refines the algorithm through user interactions. Furthermore, DeepSeek’s ongoing integration enables cross-scenario migration learning, allowing rapid deployment of Mafengwo’s AI solutions to new destinations.

The upgrade also holds strategic significance for tourism management authorities. By leveraging DeepSeek and CoT reasoning, “AI Travel Guizhou” can generate precise tourist profiles, analyze behavioral patterns, and predict demand shifts. This data-driven approach supports policymaking, resource allocation, and market forecasting, ultimately enhancing both visitor experiences and operational efficiency. For instance, by analyzing itinerary data, authorities can forecast crowd volumes at popular attractions and implement timely crowd control measures. They may also develop targeted tourism products based on visitor preferences, fostering diversified growth in Guizhou’s tourism sector.

“Travel is a high-stakes investment of time and emotion. Even minor errors in planning can lead to significant inconveniences or disappointments,” stated Sun Yunlei, Director of the Mafengwo Destination Research Institute. “DeepSeek’s integration not only ensures more accurate and personalized solutions for travelers but also marks a pivotal shift from traditional algorithmic recommendations to explainable, traceable AI decision-making in the tourism industry.”

Love is in the Air: Agoda Unveils Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Destinations in Asia

SINGAPORE, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Love is in full bloom as digital travel platform Agoda reveals the top 5 most romantic domestic destinations in Asia for couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) leads the pack, followed by Tokyo (Japan), Manila (Philippines), Bangkok (Thailand) and Pattaya (Thailand). These enchanting locales offer a delightful mix of city charm and beach bliss, catering to every couple’s dream romantic retreat.

Valentine’s Day conveniently falls on a Friday this year, making it the perfect excuse for a weekend of love and leisure. With Agoda data showing a 35% increase in accommodation searches for domestic destinations this Valentine’s Day, it seems Cupid has been busy inspiring lovebirds to explore staycations and local getaways.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur enchants couples with its captivating blend of modernity and tradition. The city’s skyline, dotted with iconic landmarks, offers a stunning backdrop for romantic evenings, while its diverse culinary scene invites couples to indulge in a world of flavors.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo charms with its unique fusion of the old and new. Couples can stroll through serene gardens, explore historic temples, and then dive into the vibrant nightlife, making it a city that offers endless romantic possibilities.

Manila, Philippines

Manila, with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, provides couples with a cozy escape. The city’s rich history and cultural sites, combined with its picturesque sunsets, create an ideal setting for love to blossom.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok’s lively energy and serene temples offer the ideal mix of excitement and tranquility. Couples can explore bustling markets, enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, or find peace in the city’s beautiful temples.

Pattaya, Thailand

Pattaya’s stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife make it a top choice for couples seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether lounging by the sea or dancing the night away, Pattaya offers a romantic escape for every couple.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, “At Agoda, we are dedicated to helping couples find the perfect spot to celebrate their love. Whether it’s a city staycation or a beach getaway, Agoda has the best deals to set the stage for a magical weekend of romance.”

With over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers endless possibilities for couples to enjoy a romantic getaway. For the best deals, check out Agoda’s mobile app and start planning your romantic escape today. Visit Agoda.com for more information.

UM Scholars Make Scientific Discoveries with Global Impact


MACAU SAR – Media Outreach Newswire – 13 February 2025 – The University of Macau (UM) has strengthened its position as a leading research institution through multiple strategies, including the recruitment of high-calibre scholars from around the world. The groundbreaking scientific discoveries made by these distinguished scholars and their teams have greatly advanced the university’s global influence and Macao’s development as an innovation hub.

From left to right: Prof Chuxia Deng, Chair Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences; Prof Chen Xin, Distinguished Professor and Director of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences; Prof Yuen Ka-Veng, Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Science and Technology.
From left to right: Prof Chuxia Deng, Chair Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences; Prof Chen Xin, Distinguished Professor and Director of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences; Prof Yuen Ka-Veng, Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Science and Technology.

Top-tier academics are vital to the academic and research advancement of a university. UM’s faculty boasts leading scholars from diverse cultural backgrounds who are actively engaged in cutting-edge research in their respective disciplines. Notably, Chuxia Deng, Chair Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences; Chen Xin, Distinguished Professor and Director of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences; and Yuen Ka-Veng, Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Science and Technology, have made remarkable achievements in cancer research, immunology, and civil engineering respectively.

Chuxia Deng: Advancing Cancer and Precision Medicine Research

Prof Chuxia Deng, a prominent figure in life sciences, has a successful track record in cancer research, focusing on precision oncology, oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes, gene targeting, and drug development. Notably, his breakthrough work involves using BRCA1 mutant mouse models to identify new targets for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a highly aggressive form of cancer. His research innovations span a 24-hour cancer drug screening biochip, drug susceptibility testing using patient-derived organoids, and 3D tumour slice culture technology.

Since joining UM in 2014, Prof Deng and his research teams have published 150 papers in top journals, with over 4,300 citation counts. His leadership has significantly boosted the Faculty of Health Sciences’s research output, elevating the number of publications from 43 in 2014 to over 2,400 by 2024, with more than 60,000 citation counts, including over 400 publications with an impact factor ≥10. As the chief scientist of the Ministry of Education Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology at UM, Prof Deng spearheads cutting-edge cancer research to enhance early cancer diagnosis and advance personalised treatment for cancer patients through precision medicine.

Chen Xin: Leading the Way in Innovative Immunotherapy

Prof Chen Xin, a renowned scholar in immunology and Chinese medicine, has led groundbreaking studies that advances a safer and more effective treatment for cancer and autoimmune diseases. His team in the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences (ICMS) at UM, in collaboration with the US National Cancer Institute (NCI), discovered that targeting a specific protein called TNFR2 can enhance anti-tumour immune responses and kill cancer cells, bringing new hope to cancer patients.

Under Prof Chen’s leadership, ICMS has made significant progress in the internationalisation of Chinese medicine. Upholding the motto of ‘seeking innovation through tradition’, the institute has produced many research results with global impact. A series of international symposia have also been held to promote global academic exchange and strengthening international partnerships in the field of Chinese medicine. In addition to advancing innovative research and development, ICMS is also dedicated to training Chinese medicine professionals to support the development of the ‘big health’ industry.

Yuen Ka-Veng: Setting the Foundation for Bayesian Methods in Civil Engineering

Prof Yuen Ka-Veng is the leading scientist of the State Key Laboratory of Internet of Things for Smart City at UM and an eminent engineering expert in Macao, specialising in Bayesian inference, structural health monitoring, and machine learning. According to Web of Science, Prof Yuen is ranked 2nd worldwide in terms of the number of journal publications of Bayesian in all engineering disciplines. In 2024, Prof Yuen was awarded the 15th Guanghua Engineering Science and Technology Prize by the Chinese Academy of Engineering in recognition of his contributions to engineering technology and engineering management.

His pioneering work in developing new Bayesian methods tailored to real-world engineering scenarios has had a significant impact on the advancement of engineering practices and technologies. The methods have been extensively applied not only to structural health monitoring of major structures in mainland China and Hong Kong, but also in many other fields such as air pollution modelling, soil mechanics, rock mechanics, computational physics, disaster mitigation, neuroscience, smart transportation, and communications engineering.

The achievements of these scholars highlight UM’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, and to establishing Macao as a leading hub for scientific research. The success of these scholars and their teams has not only enhanced UM’s global reputation and amplified Macao’s role in promoting technological development in the Greater Bay Area, but has also contributed to the city’s economic diversification.Hashtag: #UniversityofMacau #UM

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

About the University of Macau

Founded in 1981, the University of Macau (UM) is a comprehensive research-oriented public university of international standing in Macao, with a multicultural campus and a system of whole-person education underpinned by faculties and residential colleges in an international education setup. Eighty per cent of its faculty members are from outside Macao. With English as the primary medium of instruction, the university is committed to producing innovative and socially responsible graduates with a global mindset and international competitiveness.

Website:

From Traditional to Transformational: Stellar Ace Outlines 2025 Evolution


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2025 – In November 2022, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) made a monumental announcement of auctioning off the right to operate ad spaces at approximately 120 pedestrian overhead bridges, underpasses, and covered link-ways in a 10-year contract—a true first for the entity.

One year later, the entity announced that out of seven proposals from four tenderers for the LTA, Stellar Experience, a subsidiary of public transport operator SMRT, had come out on top.

LTA said the proposals were evaluated on their quality, whether tenderers were able to maintain the bus and taxi shelters per LTA’s requirements, as well as their ability to generate non-fare revenue from these road assets.

Stellar Experience, more commonly known within the adland ecosystem as Stellar Ace, was touted to have the strongest overall proposal.

Under the leadership of Tony Heng, president of Stellar Lifestyle, and managing director of Stellar Ace and Stellar Ace Outdoor, the team is actively looking to transform Singapore’s transit network into a vibrant advertising and retail hub.

The corporation’s vision is to advance the Lifestyle 360 concept, and seamlessly blend offline and online activations to create a holistic experience for the millions of commuters who journey with SMRT daily.

Guided by SMRT’s vision—”Moving people, enhancing lifestyles”—Heng is dedicated to transforming Stellar Ace’s advertising ecosystem into an interactive brand experience through integration with retail spaces, event areas, and machine distribution points, along with versatile short, medium, and long-term spaces for retail promotions.

The team is accelerating asset digitalisation by installing cutting-edge anamorphic digital screens at high-traffic MRT stations like Raffles Place, City Hall, and Orchard, offering dynamic, real-time advertising opportunities.

“It’s no longer just about placing static ads in high-traffic areas, but enhancing the commuter experience,” said Heng.

As such, the team is embracing out-of-the-box thinking. A prime example of digitalisation is Stellar Ace’s 3D Ad Crown, featuring creative executions on the roofs of bus shelters. The exciting innovation elevates traditional static panels by incorporating dynamic 3D elements in a conventional bus shelter.

This format captivates and engages commuters in new ways, providing brands with a unique and attention-grabbing platform while transforming a daily commuting journey into an immersive and interactive experience.

“We are continuously working towards ensuring the content reaches the right demographics, and in turn, creates maximum value and impact for advertisers,” he said.

Transforming Stellar Ace’s spaces into lifestyle destinations isn’t without challenges. With users saturated by digital interactions, Heng’s team is rethinking advertising through sensory authenticity and online-offline integration.

As consumers increasingly interact with brands across physical and digital channels, Lifestyle 360 aims to align with how consumers live, travel, shop, and play.

“This allows advertisers to engage their audience at multiple touch-points—whether through an immersive experience at a bus shelter, an interactive event at an MRT station, or a digital ad on a commuter’s smartphone via apps such as WINK+,” said Heng.

Embracing the digital revolution for marketers

Not one to be left behind the digital revolution, the team is also harnessing data-driven insights through AI and machine learning to enhance audience targeting and ROI measurement.

This comes as many marketers investing in OOH advertising say they struggle to ensure their campaigns are targeted and relevant to the right audience. Traditional OOH, marketers say, lacks precise audience insights and engagement metrics.

“By shifting from traditional static formats to dynamic, interactive digital experiences, we’re adapting to the evolving OOH advertising landscape, where engagement is fuelled by technology and personalisation,” Heng said, addressing the challenge faced by marketers.

Endorsing his statement is Tjhin Poi Chung, deputy managing director of Stellar Ace and Stellar Ace Outdoor, who leads the company’s digital transformation and media solutions expansion.

Since joining SMRT in 2022, Tjhin has leveraged his expertise in engineering, AI technology, and business leadership, honed at previous jobs in ST Engineering and the government sector, to drive innovation and enhance operations and the customer experience.

Under his leadership, Stellar Ace is advancing towards a tech-driven, integrated approach to OOH advertising, using latest ridership and footfall data and interactive, multi-touch-point experiences, to deliver success for brands.

“We are leveraging digital data to enhance ROI measurement for marketers,” Tjhin says. By utilising AI and analytics, Stellar Ace can now provide precise audience targeting and real-time campaign tracking.

“Marketers gain actionable insights into audience behaviour, foot traffic, and engagement, ensuring campaigns reach the right people and deliver measurable results.”

Addressing the challenges marketers face, he shares the team is constantly brainstorming ways to help marketers tackle issues. “When it comes to creating targeted advertising, we use our ability to analyse ridership patterns and foot traffic data across the transit network, and our digital team uses this data to target the right audience at the right time, maximising campaign reach,” he added.

Stellar Ace also caters to commuters who prefer engaging with content via their smartphones through its widely recognised WINK+ app, which enhances the physical OOH experience by providing a mobile-first platform for advertisers.

It allows brands to reach commuters through digital formats while offering insights into campaign performance on mobile devices. This creates a more interactive and personalised experience, extending connections beyond traditional OOH.

The future of OOH

At the end of the day, technology is transforming the OOH advertising industry, with digitalisation at the forefront. AI is pivotal in this shift, enabling not just timely messaging, but also the analysis and prediction of consumer behaviour. By leveraging ridership patterns and foot traffic data, advertisers can effectively reach their target audience, resulting in more targeted campaigns and better ROI.

“The integration of more screens and digital platforms into public spaces enables dynamic, real-time content delivery and allows advertisers to tailor messages based on factors such as time of day, weather, location, or audience demographics,” Tjhin said.

As such, marketers must embrace these advancements, including digital screens and AI-driven insights, to stay competitive. Platforms such as its WINK+ app extend reach beyond traditional billboards, offering a mobile-first experience for commuters and engaging audiences on the go.

“Embracing these digital tools is essential for thriving in the evolving OOH landscape,” he added.

Hashtag: #LTA

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

About Stellar Lifestyle

Stellar Lifestyle, a business arm of SMRT Corporation Limited, transforms spaces in and around MRT stations into vibrant lifestyle destinations, enhancing the daily journey for commuters. We innovate to benefit the community by reimagining the use of existing spaces and leveraging the extensive train network to introduce new business models and foster community engagement. As the largest managing agent of retail and advertising spaces in Singapore’s rail network, we bring expertise in property and retail management, media, and digital advertising solutions.

A New Japanese Cultural Experience by Isetan Shinjuku

Experience Japanese Culture with All Five Senses at the “JAPAN SENSES” Campaign – A Limited-Time Event

Showcasing works that embody a uniquely Japanese sensibility, we aim to highlight the charm of both traditional and contemporary culture.

TOKYO, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Founded in 1886, Isetan offers a special experience to all visitors through a diverse products,  including fashion, foods, arts and offers a wide selection of traditional coming Japanese brands.

JAPAN SENSES
JAPAN SENSES

Isetan Shinjuku Store will hold the “JAPAN SENSES” campaign from February 19 (Wed.) to 25 (Tue.), 2025.

JAPAN SENSES” is a campaign designed to showcase Japanese culture with the world,  highlighting the essence of Japanese sensibility and craftsmanship, while offering visitors the opportunity to experience both traditional techniques and modern pop culture.

Each floor of Isetan Shinjuku will feature unique attractions, including a special 30th-anniversary pop-up store by fashion designer Keita Maruyama, the 30th-anniversary event by Fukagawa Porcelain, exclusive bento boxes and curries celebrating the essence of Japanese dashi (broth), a collaboration with the JRPG “Persona” series, and an exhibition of works by popular plush toy artists.

JAPAN SENSES” Campaign

Dates: February 19 (Wed) – 25 (Tue), 2025

Venue: Isetan Shinjuku Main Building and Men’s Building

URL:

https://cp.mistore.jp/global/en/shinjuku/special/japansenses.html

KEITA MARUYAMA 30th Anniversary SPECIAL POP UP FINALLY in Isetan Shinjuku

KEITA MARUYAMA 30th Anniversary SPECIAL POP UP FINALLY in Isetan Shinjuku
KEITA MARUYAMA 30th Anniversary SPECIAL POP UP FINALLY in Isetan Shinjuku

The Isetan Shinjuku store will host the finale of KEITA MARUYAMA’s 30th-anniversary pop-up, celebrating one of Japan’s leading fashion designers. The pop-up will showcase a variety of exclusive items, including collaboration sneakers with “Maison Mihara Yasuhiro“, eco-bags by Ball & Chain, and unique interior goods.

Main Bldg. 1F Promotion
sneakers will be available for pre-order and will be delivered in May.

Ukiyoe and Contemporary Culture Fusion, Taichi Solo Exhibition “Boku no Kotoba” (My Words)

Taichi: Manga Culture, 55,000 yen (15 x 9.5 cm)
Taichi: Manga Culture, 55,000 yen (15 x 9.5 cm)

Born in 2005, Taichi is a 19-year-old artist who has been passionate about drawing since childhood. He gained recognition for his ability to depict mystical worlds, coming into the spotlight after appearing on a TV program during his junior high school years. Now a university student, he continues to be active in the art scene.

This solo exhibition showcases works that pay homage to Ukiyo-e, blending its traditional elements with contemporary cultural influences from manga and anime to create a unique artistic expression.
Art Gallery, 6F, Main Bldg.
One original artwork per person is limited to purchase.

Fukagawa Porcelain: Craftsmanship in Every Detail, 130th Anniversary “Crafts Created by Time Immemorial

Large bowl, camellia design in ancient celadon glaze, 880,000 yen (diameter 28cm)
Large bowl, camellia design in ancient celadon glaze, 880,000 yen (diameter 28cm)

To commemorate its 130th anniversary, Fukagawa Porcelain will host a special event at Isetan Shinjuku. The “Ancient Celadon Glazed Bowl with Camellia Design”, which was created by Shoka Baba, a traditional craftsman, using a celadon glaze with a deep olive green color developed independently and dyed by him, and other collectible works will be on display. Additionally, new works from the Tani Kiln, a historic climbing kiln that operates only once a year, will be unveiled. This is an event where visitors can experience the skills and spirit of the craftsmen who have passed down the art of pottery making since its founding.
Main Bldg. 5F Kitchen Dining/Artist Piece

Discover the essence of Japanese cuisine with dashi (broth) and umami, the foundational flavors of Japanese culinary tradition, at Isetan Shinjuku!
The “Traditional Japanese Foods for the Future – JAPAN SENSES” will be held to introduce traditional Japanese food culture, techniques, and ingredients such as “dashi” and “umami”. Kyoto-based Kurama Tsujii, renowned for preserving the traditional Kyoto tsukudani craft, will present an exclusive bento box available only at Isetan Shinjuku.
Food Collection, B1F, Main Bldg.

Isetan Shinjuku
Isetan Shinjuku

Isetan Shinjuku
Isetan Shinjuku Store, the top-selling department store in Japan, welcomes domestic and international customers with its high level of hospitality and highly sensitive product lineup, and attracts approximately 25 million visitors a year.

Business hours: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

“Eat Paradise” restaurant on the 7th floor of the main building
Business hours: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Address: 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022
HP https://cp.mistore.jp/global/en/shinjuku.html 

HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Leads the Zero-Carbon Era with ‘SMR-Powered Ship’

– Received Approval in Principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for nuclear-powered container ship

– Unveiled model at U.S. New Nuclear for Maritime Summit – showcasing economic efficiency, performance, and safety

– “Developing a business model by 2030 to accelerate the commercialization of marine nuclear technology”

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), an intermediary holding company for HD Hyundai’s shipbuilding sector, has unveiled a nuclear-powered container ship model utilizing Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology, accelerating the development of nuclear-powered vessels.

A rendering of a 15,000 TEU-class SMR-powered containership unveiled by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering
A rendering of a 15,000 TEU-class SMR-powered containership unveiled by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering

On the 12th(Wednesday), HD KSOE announced that it had revealed its nuclear-powered container ship design model for the first time at the New Nuclear for Maritime Houston Summit, held at the Asia Society Texas Center in Houston, USA.

Previously, HD KSOE had obtained Approval in Principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for a 15,000 TEU-class container ship design model applying SMR technology.

The newly unveiled design model features enhanced economic efficiency and safety by incorporating actual equipment and safety design concepts.

Unlike conventional ships, nuclear-powered vessels do not require engine exhaust systems or fuel tanks. HD KSOE has optimized the space previously occupied by large engine room equipment to accommodate additional containers, enhancing economic efficiency. The company has also applied a marine radiation shielding system using a double-tank method with stainless steel and *light water to ensure safety.

Furthermore, HD KSOE, in collaboration with global energy technology company Baker Hughes, has applied a *supercritical carbon dioxide-based propulsion system, improving thermal efficiency by approximately 5% compared to existing steam-based propulsion systems.

HD KSOE plans to establish a marine nuclear demonstration facility at its Future Technology Test Center in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, to verify safety designs.

“Nuclear-powered vessels can be a game-changer in the current shipbuilding market, where carbon neutrality is emerging,” said Patrick Ryan, Chief Technology Officer of ABS. “ABS and HD KSOE will contribute to accelerating the commercialization of marine nuclear technology in the global shipbuilding market.”

Meanwhile, at the summit, a discussion on ‘Maritime Civil Nuclear Propulsion for Large Ships’ was held, featuring Park Sangmin, Head of HD KSOE’s Green Energy Research Lab; Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman, President, and CEO of ABS; and John Michael Richardson, former U.S. Chief of Naval Operations.

“HD KSOE is strengthening cooperation not only with major classification societies but also with international regulatory bodies to establish international regulations necessary for the commercialization of nuclear-powered vessels,” said Park Sangmin. “Starting with the land-based SMR reactor manufacturing project, we aim to develop a marine nuclear business model by 2030.”

Since February last year, HD KSOE has been accelerating related technology development through joint research on next-generation SMRs with TerraPower. In December of the same year, the company secured an order to manufacture the main equipment for TerraPower’s Natrium reactor, which is being constructed in Wyoming, USA.

*Light water: Water used as a coolant and neutron moderator in reactors.

*Supercritical carbon dioxide-based propulsion system: A technology that generates energy by heating carbon dioxide in a supercritical state. It enables high-efficiency power generation even at low temperatures and pressures, making it a next-generation power generation technology.