Home Blog Page 1561

A-Level vs Polytechnic: Understanding different pathways offer competitive edge at SIM


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – Singapore’s education system offers two popular tertiary pathways after post-secondary, A-Levels through Junior Colleges and Polytechnic diplomas. Both leading to higher education but differ in focus. A-Levels are academically rigorous and theory-driven, preparing students for university through subject-based learning over two years at junior colleges or three years at Millennia Institute.

Conversely, Polytechnic programmes emphasize applied learning, incorporating projects and industry attachments, and culminate in a diploma after three years. Understanding how these distinct approaches translate into admission considerations at SIM, one of Singapore’s leading private education institutions, is essential.

For students and parents, evaluating these options is critical to determining which pathway offers the greatest advantage in today’s competitive education landscape.

Applying with A-Levels

For students who have completed A-Levels, SIM requires applicants to meet the academic and English language criteria specified for each degree programme. According to SIM’s admissions process, candidates must submit their GCE A-Level certificates and transcripts along with other supporting documents. Entry is subject to programme-specific requirements set by SIM and its universities partner from Australia, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This pathway allows applicants to begin their degree studies immediately after junior college, provided they meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen programme.

Applying with a Polytechnic Diploma

Polytechnic graduates may be eligible for advanced standing and credit exemptions when applying to SIM’s degree programmes. The amount of exemption depends on the relevance of the diploma and the chosen degree. For example, IT-related diplomas from local polytechnics can receive up to two years of credit exemptions for certain programmes, such as those offered by the University of Wollongong, provided the applicant meets GPA requirements (typically 2.0 or above). Other diplomas may receive partial exemptions on a case-by-case basis. These exemptions reduce both time and cost, making SIM an attractive option for Polytechnic graduates who want to build on their applied learning experience.

Why It Matters

According to the Ministry of Education (MOE) statistics in 2021, roughly one in three Polytechnic graduates progress to local autonomous universities, compared to about four in five A‑Level and International Baccalaureate graduates. This gap underscores the importance of additional pathways such as SIM, which enable Polytechnic graduates to earn globally recognised degrees and expand their career prospects.

Student Stories: Two Potential Paths to Success at SIM

At SIM, students have the flexibility to shape their academic journey based on their background and career goals. For some, it’s about gaining a head start; for others, it’s about leveraging credit exemptions to fast-track progress. Ashley Ong and Violet Weng exemplify these two pathways, each leading to success in its own way.

Ashley Ong, an A-Level graduate, chose to begin her degree journey with the University at Buffalo Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She embraced every opportunity SIM offered such as internships, hackathons, and networking events, building practical skills and global perspectives that prepared her for a competitive business world.

Meanwhile, Violet Weng, a Singapore Polytechnic graduate, opted for a different approach. While pursuing her RMIT Bachelor of Business (Economics and Finance), Violet leveraged SIM’s credit exemptions to shorten her study duration and reduce costs, all while working full-time. This flexibility allowed her to balance work and study, accelerate graduation, and advance her career without compromise.

Both stories highlight SIM’s commitment to offering customized pathways for students whether you’re starting fresh or building on prior learning.

Conclusion

Whether you come from an academic route like A-Levels or an applied learning path through Polytechnic, the journey to a degree can look very different. A-Level graduates often enjoy a head start with direct entry, while Polytechnic graduates benefit from credit exemptions that recognize their practical skills. Both pathways reflect Singapore’s evolving education landscape where flexibility and global opportunities matter more than ever.

References:

  1. MOE Post-Secondary – https://www.moe.gov.sg/post-secondary/
  2. SIM Application Process – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/application-process
  3. SIM-UOW Credit Exemption Table – https://www.sim.edu.sg/getmedia/9c0ad90d-5910-4d47-b044-f815188a4b16/sim002856.pdf
  4. MOE Education Statistics Digest – https://www.moe.gov.sg/about-us/publications/education-statistics-digest
  5. Polytechnic graduates progression and subsidies for PEIs – https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/parliamentary-replies/20210510-polytechnic-graduates-progression-and-subsidies-for-peis
  6. askST: How many uni places are there for Singaporeans? Is there a quota for poly grads? – https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/how-many-uni-places-for-locals-any-quota-for-poly-grads
  7. How 6 internships, 4 hackathons, and CCAs paved the way for Ashley – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-6-internships-4-hackathons-and-ccas-paved-the-way-for-ashley
  8. How this graduate pivoted her career by pursuing a degree while working full time – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-this-graduate-pivoted-her-career-by-pursuing-a-degree-while-working-full-time

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

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

About SIM Global Education

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

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

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

Strutt ev¹ the CES 2026 Best of Innovation Winner Announces Super Early Bird Begins

The awards-winning robotics company officially kicks off its pre-order window ahead of its main launch at CES 2026.

SINGAPORE, Dec. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Strutt, a Singapore-incorporated robotics company advancing smart everyday vehicle, announced the opening of Super Early Bird access for the Strutt ev¹, the only product winning both 2026 CES Best of Innovation Award in the Vehicle Tech and Advanced Mobility category and 2025 Red Dot: Luminary. Strutt will officially launch the ev¹ on January 5, 2026 at CES.

To thank our earliest community supporters, Strutt offers the Co-Designer Rewards as a member-only exclusive program in the Strutt’s official Facebook group (Strutt Drivers Club), ensuring a best-ever offer including special discount, priority for delivery, beta test access and more. This only goes to whom the team designs the ev¹ together with. The ev¹ creates a new category of smart everyday vehicle that integrates that integrates automotive and robotics technologies into a compact personal driving experience.

Strutt will officially launch the ev¹ at CES 2026, with showcases at CES Unveiled, Pepcom Digital, and the CES trade floor at Booth 53413. Demonstrations will highlight the ev¹’s stability, slope performance, obstacle detection, and intelligent navigation features. At CES 2026, attendees will get up close and personal with the ev¹ to test its stability, challenge it with slopes, see how it detects obstacles around, and watch it navigate all on its own in a live demonstration.

The ev¹ also aligns with major global trends shaping the CES agenda, including aging population needs, independence technology, the emergence of AI for real-world applications, robotics in daily environments, and the evolution of micro-mobility into safer and more intelligent platforms. 

Quote from Tony Hong, Founder and CEO of Strutt

“The ev¹ has been engineered to bring automotive technology and robotics intelligence into a compact form factor that meaningfully enhances everyday mobility and safety. Because this unit was co-designed with real users, we wanted to ensure our best-ever offer goes to them first. Ahead of our official global launch at CES 2026, we will release the exclusive Co-Designer Rewards program on December 5 in our community. We look forward to showcasing the results of our collaborative development with our users soon.”

Invite for CES Attendees

Strutt welcomes media, creators, analysts, and industry partners to book a hands on demonstration of the Strutt ev¹ during CES 2026. Demonstrations will be available at CES Unveiled, Pepcom Digital, and at the Strutt booth on the CES show floor. To schedule a meeting or secure a demo slot, please contact comms@strutt.inc

About Strutt

Strutt is a Singapore incorporated robotics company redefining personal transport through advanced sensing, autonomous support intelligence, and awards winning industrial design. The company’s flagship product, the Strutt ev¹, is engineered to deliver Electric Vehicle grade safety, intelligence, and control in a compact personal vehicle built for everyday use.

Find out more: Strutt | Home

Join our Community: Strutt Drivers Club | Facebook

Manignom Auto Group, ADSS Auto Sole Formalize Dealership Agreement

Manignom Auto Group and ADSS Auto Sole signed a formal Dealership Agreement in Vientiane Capital (Photo: supplied)

On 1 December, Manignom Auto Group and ADSS Auto Sole signed a dealership agreement appointing ADSS Auto Sole as the authorized dealer for Zeekr and Lynk&Co (Branch 2), located in Xaymoungkhoun village, Naxaithong district, Vientiane Capital.

2025 Guangzhou Design Week Opens: PHOMI Holdings Leads Tech Innovation in Architectural Aesthetics

GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — 2025 Guangzhou Design Week kicked off on December 5th, bringing together top global design talent and cutting-edge ideas. PHOMI Holdings stole the spotlight, using its tech expertise and innovations in material science to spark a revolution in architectural aesthetics and sustainable living.

PHOMI BOOTH
PHOMI BOOTH

PHOMI made a big splash at the Design Week, unveiling a range of industry-first products. The 4th generation of its low-carbon surface material (eCovering 4.0) has seen upgrades in digital quality control, close-fit capabilities, and fire safety; boosting quality, safety, and cost-efficiency in installation. The 4-meter ultra-long panel meets the seamless “one-panel ceiling” look for high-end commercial spaces. For the first time, econicaly tech has been applied to flooring, with the launch of eCovering floor tiles, offering a fresh, safer flooring option. The much-awaited eDisplay Curtain debuted with a new look, its unique design and top performance expanding the possibilities for custom design and interactive architecture that encompasses AI capabilities.

PHOMI’s innovations have drawn attention both at home and abroad, winning multiple international awards. The eCovering and eDisplay technologies in the showcased products have previously earned honors like the 112th Paris International Invention Award, the 9th Asian International Innovation and Invention Gold Award, and the 76th International Exhibition of Inventions Nuremberg Gold Award. These awards recognize PHOMI’s tech innovation and its leading role in global design.

On opening day, PHOMI’s booth was packed with visitors – engineers, designers, brand owners, and distributors — all eager to learn about the new products and tech. The event also drew media attention from home and abroad. A PHOMI representative said, “We are powering the future of construction through material science, balancing practicality, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness. Through this Design Week, we hope to team up with global peers to explore the endless potential of ways to live more sustainably.”

About PH0MI

PHOMI has been engaged in the R&D, manufacture, and sales of cutting-edge, carbon-neutral materials since 2008. PHOMI team use modern technologies of the digital age, combine them with the knowledge of traditional handcraftship to create sustainable, eco-friendly and inspiring materials for the humans in the centerpiece.

K. Wah Group Donates Additional HK$12.07 Million for Tai Po Recovery

Chairman Mr. Francis Lui Urges Public to Turn Compassion into Action and Vote 7 December


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – K. Wah Group (“the Group”) continues to stand in solidarity with the Tai Po community in the aftermath of the recent fire, offering timely support to affected residents and post-disaster recovery efforts. Following an earlier donation of HK$10 million from the Group and Chairman Mr. Francis Lui in his personal capacity, the Group today announced it will donate an additional HK$12.07 million — originally allocated as prize money for the “Thanks A Million” Grand Lucky Draw, a citywide initiative by the six business chambers — in full to the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po established by the HKSAR Government.

In a show of collective care, the Group’s businesses have also launched a broad-based donation campaign across their offices, including participation from staff at Galaxy Entertainment Group in Macau. Dedicated donation accounts and collection boxes have been set up to make it more convenient for employees to contribute voluntarily. To further support this initiative, the Group has introduced a one-to-one donation matching programme, pledging to match every dollar donated by employees. All proceeds — including employee contributions and matched funds — will be directed to the Tai Po relief fund, amplifying the impact and extending meaningful assistance to the affected community.

Chairman Mr. Francis Lui said, “We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the victims and their families. K. Wah Group has deep roots in Hong Kong and has long embraced a spirit of compassion and solidarity with the community. In this difficult moment, we hope to channel our collective strength, turning care into action, and actively support both the survivors and the broader recovery efforts. This tragedy reminds us of the importance of unity and stability in society.”

Mr. Lui also expressed his hope for a swift recovery and rebuilding of the community, and called on the public to actively participate in the Legislative Council election on 7 December, casting their votes to elect capable leaders and contribute to building a stronger, more resilient future for Hong Kong.

Last week, volunteers from the Group’s K. Wah Construction Materials Volunteer Team were quickly mobilised to assist affected families at the Tai Po Community Centre and Shuen Wan Transitional Housing “Good House”, helping with the transport and distribution of supplies, as well as cleaning and organising temporary accommodation, easing the burden for residents during the transition period.

K. Wah Group remains committed to its founding principle of “giving back to society” and will continue to support the community through diverse, meaningful initiatives — standing with Hong Kong in times of challenge and rebuilding the future together.

Hashtag: #K.WahGroup



Wechat: 嘉华集团 K. Wah Group

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

About K. Wah Group

K. Wah Group was founded in 1955 by Dr. Lui Che Woo and has since grown into a diversified multinational corporation. Its core businesses span property development and investment, integrated resort and entertainment, hospitality, and construction materials.

The Group has a strong presence in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Southeast Asia, and key international markets. Its major subsidiaries include two Hong Kong-listed flagships: K. Wah International Holdings Limited (HKEX: 00173), focused on premium property development and investment; and Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (HKEX: 00027), a constituent of the Hang Seng Index and a leading gaming and entertainment operator in Macau. Other key members of the Group include Stanford Hotels International and K. Wah Construction Materials Limited. Today, K. Wah Group comprises over 200 subsidiaries worldwide.

Website:

XIXILI Reimagines Plus-Size Lingerie in Malaysia


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – XIXILI is rewriting the rules of lingerie shopping with its Plus Size Collection, moving beyond the typical S, M, L, XL approach that leaves so many women without options. The brand’s extensive range proves that well-fitted, beautiful lingerie shouldn’t be a luxury reserved for a select few.

When One Size Definitely Doesn’t Fit All

XIXILI’s Plus Size Collection flips the narrative that women need to settle for less-than-ideal sizes.

“For too many women, bra shopping has meant settling for sizes that almost fit or styles that prioritise function over fashion,” says XIXILI spokesperson Grace Tan. “Inclusivity is about recognising that every woman deserves access to beautiful, sexy, well-fitted lingerie. That shouldn’t be a problem they have to solve alone.”

To address the challenges of online fitting, XIXILI combines a detailed bra size chart with its pioneering ‘Try-On in 3D’ avatar tool. The feature allows women to generate a personalised digital twin based on specific measurements, enabling them to visualise the fit before purchasing.

Support Without Sacrifice: Plus Size Done Right

The Rufina Full Coverage Full Cup Bra sits at the heart of XIXILI’s Plus Size collection, designed for women who have been told they have to choose between support and style. The Rufina bra offers full coverage support with a contemporary silhouette that works under everything from work blouses to festive party dresses. Engineered specifically for fuller figures, it celebrates natural curves instead of trying to hide or minimise them. It’s the kind of foundation piece that lets you focus on your day, not your discomfort.

“We want every woman to feel supported, comfortable, and beautiful in whatever she’s wearing,” says Grace Tan. “Whether it’s for work, family gatherings, or special occasions, the right fit makes all the difference to daily comfort and confidence.”

Empowering Women With Knowledge, Not Just Options

XIXILI recognises that offering more sizes is only half the equation. Many women have spent years navigating limited options without proper guidance on finding their actual measurements.

The brand addresses this through interactive bra size charts, how-to-measure videos, and one-on-one personalised fittings at boutiques nationwide. By equipping women with the tools and knowledge to identify their true size, XIXILI transforms what can be a frustrating shopping experience into a more confident and informed process.

As Christmas shopping gets underway, the Plus Size Collection offers both a thoughtful gift for loved ones and an opportunity for self-care during the busy holiday season.

For more information and to discover the full range, visit XIXILI’s website.

Hashtag: #XIXILI





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

XIXILI

A homegrown Malaysian brand, XIXILI offers beautiful fashion lingerie and shapewear in Malaysia that prioritises fit and comfort. With an extensive range of bra sizes from A to I and bands 65 to 110cm, XIXILI caters to women of all shapes and sizes. Expert fitters are dedicated to helping each customer find the perfect bra, boosting confidence and enhancing silhouettes.

XIXILI became the first Malaysian lingerie brand to introduce a Try-On in 3D avatar tool, allowing customers to virtually try on XIXILI lingerie using a 3D avatar tailored to their specific body type and measurements. Whether for everyday wear or something special, XIXILI ensures women always look and feel amazing.

Princess Aiko Shares Thoughts on Six-Day Trip to Laos

Princess Aiko Shares Thoughts on Six-Day Trip to Laos
Princess Aiko is accompanied by officials from Laos and Japan as she visits Laos (photo credit: 宮内庁/ Imperial Household Agency)

Her Royal Highness Princess Aiko of Japan has shared her thoughts following her first official overseas visit, concluding a trip to Laos from 17 to 22 November.

Essential Document Checklist for SIM Applications


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – Submitting an application to the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) represents a significant academic milestone and requires meticulous preparation. Incomplete or missing documentation may result in processing delays or possible rejection. To assist applicants in meeting these requirements, this guide provides a detailed overview based on SIM’s official application standards.

Preparation Is Key

SIM reviews thousands of applications each year, and incomplete submissions remain one of the primary causes of processing delays. Early preparation of all required documents is essential to ensure a seamless application experience and allow applicants to remain focused on their academic objectives. As stipulated in SIM’s Application Process Guide, all supporting documents must be uploaded at the point of application and submissions lacking these documents will not be processed.

The Core Documents Every Applicant Needs

Prior to applying to the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), applicants should ensure that all required documents are prepared to prevent processing delays. Scanned copies of academic certificates and transcripts, such as GCE ‘O’ and ‘A’ Levels, diplomas or degrees must be provided, along with certified translations and notarisation for documents not in English.

Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL results, is mandatory for applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English. Identification documents are also required, including the NRIC for local applicants and a valid passport for international applicants, accompanied by a recent passport-sized photograph that complies with SIM’s specifications.

International applicants must additionally prepare documentation for the Student’s Pass application, which includes the passport bio-data page, birth certificate, evidence of financial capability, and, where applicable, parent or guardian identification documents.

Quick Tips to Avoid Delays

Submitting an application to the SIM can be a straightforward process with proper preparation. Ensure that all documents are uploaded in the correct format, with PDF being the standard for certificates and transcripts. For documents not in English, certified translations must be provided to prevent rejection or requests for re-submission.

Applicants should also adhere to SIM’s photo specifications by submitting a recent passport-sized photograph that meets official guidelines. International students must pay particular attention to financial documentation, as proof of financial capability is a key requirement for the Student’s Pass application. Bank statements and supporting documents should be prepared in advance to comply with Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) requirements. Following these steps will help avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth application process.

Application Essentials

Prospective students are advised to submit a complete and accurate application to ensure smooth processing. Detailed instructions and programme-specific requirements can be found on SIM’s official application portal. Applications that are incomplete or contain inaccuracies will not be considered. To avoid delays, applicants should make use of the provided checklist and guidelines to confirm compliance before submission.

References:

  1. SIM Application Process – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/application-process

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

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

About SIM Global Education

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

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

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