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Category: National

  • Venturi Partners Launches $225 Million Second Fund to Fuel Disruptive Consumer Brands in Southeast Asia and India

    Venturi Partners Launches $225 Million Second Fund to Fuel Disruptive Consumer Brands in Southeast Asia and India

    Investment platform aims for a first close of $130 million by June 2025

    Venturi Partners, a Singapore based leading growth-stage consumer-focused investor in India and Southeast Asia, has announced the launch of its second fund, targeting $225 million, with a hard cap of $250 million. Building on the success of its first fund, the new fund will continue to focus on Venturi’s core strategy of backing consumer brands that are disrupting their sectors and creating innovative products and services tailored for the evolving Asian consumer.

    The second fund will target high-growth sectors such as retail, education, healthcare, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), with a continued focus on India and Southeast Asia. Venturi is aiming for a first close by Q2 CY2025, with visibility towards $130 million, backed by continued strong support from existing investors.

    In April 2022, Venturi had raised $180 million from prominent families in Europe & Asia. Venturi’s first fund has invested in 7 high-growth consumer companies across various sectors such as education, F&B subscription, beauty & personal care, retail, and home interiors. Its existing portfolio includes Livspace, Country Delight, Believe, Pickup Coffee, DALI, K-12 Techno and JQR.

    Nicholas Cator, Founder of Venturi Partners, said: “Our investment philosophy remains unchanged, backing brands that create meaningful change and deliver innovative solutions to consumers. We take an active ownership approach with our portfolio companies, working closely with founders to help unlock growth and scale their businesses. With this second fund, we are excited to continue partnering with ambitious entrepreneurs across the region.”

    Venturi’s unique hands-on approach is centred around working closely with management teams to scale operations and create lasting value. The firm’s expertise in identifying and scaling consumer businesses has made it a trusted partner for founders in India and Southeast Asia.

    About Venturi Partners

    Founded in 2020, Venturi Partners is an Asia-focused investment platform that enables consumer-facing businesses to build disruptive brands in India and Southeast Asia. The firm provides growth funding to consumer-centric, purpose-driven brands, with a focus on retail, education, healthcare and fast-moving consumer goods, that have a shared desire to create a positive impact on the world. Venturi has built a unique investment platform for families wanting to participate in the long-term consumer growth trends in Asia. The platform is built around shared values and long-term partnerships, and aims to bring operational value-add to entrepreneurs building tomorrow’s leading brands in Asia.

    For more information, please visit www.venturi.partners

    Media contacts:
    Adfactors PR
    Namrata Sharma
    Namrata.sharma@adfactorspr.com
    +6581383034

  • Singapore’s Salary Expectations Evolve as 53% Professionals Seek Better Compensation, foundit Survey Reveals

    Singapore’s Salary Expectations Evolve as 53% Professionals Seek Better Compensation, foundit Survey Reveals

    Key findings from the survey

    – 53% of employees consider their salary does not match industry standards Only 28% of respondents are satisfied with their salary growth opportunities
    – Nearly half (49%) of all professionals expect up to 10% growth in their next appraisal
    – 41% of employees reported no major change in their salary over the past three years
    – In-demand skills (30%) and economic trends (25%) are the primary drivers of current salary trends

    Singaporean employees and employers appear to have differing perspectives on compensation, according to a comprehensive salary survey by foundit, a leading jobs and talent platform. The study reveals that while many professionals see room for salary growth, organisations are focusing on strategic compensation planning to retain talent in a competitive job market. The insights from the survey highlight evolving compensation trends in Singapore, with a growing awareness among professionals about market benchmarks. More than half of those surveyed recognise that salary adjustments are necessary to stay competitive, while nearly half anticipate only a modest single-digit salary growth in their upcoming reviews.

    These insights offer valuable opportunities for organisations to refine their talent strategies, ensuring competitive compensation structures that attract and retain top talent. With compensation playing a central role in both recruitment success and employee loyalty, these insights into workforce sentiment provide valuable intelligence for business planning.

    V Suresh, CEO of foundit, commented on the findings: “Our survey highlights a growing disparity between employee salary expectations and market realities in Singapore. More than half of professionals feel their compensation is not aligned with industry standards, while 41% have seen little to no salary growth in the past three years. This misalignment, particularly among mid-career professionals, presents a significant challenge for employers striving to retain skilled talent in an already competitive job market.

    To address this, organisations must adopt transparent salary benchmarking, skills-based compensation models, and clear career progression frameworks. While early-career professionals remain optimistic, the increasing dissatisfaction among experienced employees signals a critical need for proactive compensation strategies. Companies that prioritise fair and structured salary growth will not only improve retention but also strengthen Singapore’s position as a premier talent hub in Asia.”

    Key findings from the survey include:

    Salary Perception Across Experience Levels

    • More than half (53%) of working professionals surveyed see opportunities for higher compensation compared to industry peers.
    • 36% feel their salary is above average, while 11% are unsure how their pay compares to market rates.
    • Entry-level professionals (0-3 years) are the most optimistic, with 46.9% reporting they earn above industry standards.
    • Mid-level professionals (7-10 years) are the most dissatisfied, with 57.9% reporting their salary is below market standards.

    Satisfaction with Salary Growth

    • 35% of respondents are dissatisfied with salary growth opportunities.
    • 37% remain neutral, indicating mixed perceptions about compensation structures.
    • 28% express satisfaction, but satisfaction levels decline as professionals advance in their careers.
    • Executive-level (15+ years) professionals show the highest dissatisfaction (39.4%) with salary growth.

    Expected Salary Growth from Appraisal

    • Nearly half (49.37%) of employees expect no growth or a maximum of 10% salary hike in their next review.
    • 24.5% anticipate a 6-10% increment, while 24.8% foresee just 0-5% growth.
    • 16% of professionals aim for substantial increases exceeding 30%.
    • 34.9% of entry-level professionals expect 6–10% hikes, while executives (25.7%) top the group anticipating raises of 30% or more.

    Salary Changes Over the Past Three Years

    • 41% of professionals saw no salary growth, indicating wage stagnation.
    • 28% experienced salary reductions (19.3% minor, 8.3% significant).
    • 32% received salary hikes (15.9% modest, 15.3% substantial), highlighting industry-specific trends.

    Future Salary Expectations: Industry Outlook

    • 73% of respondents expect salary growth in the future, with professionals in Consumer Electronics, Engineering & Construction, and IT sectors most optimistic.
    • Manufacturing, Retail, and Education sectors expect more stability or potential decline.

    Key Drivers of Salary Trends

    • Skills in Demand: 30.1% of professionals see in-demand skills significantly impact salaries.
    • Economic Trends: 24.9% see macroeconomic factors shaping pay scales.
    • Industry-Specific Challenges: 18.8% cite industry constraints as key influencers of pay.
    • Technological Advancements: 16.2% recognise tech-driven disruptions as key factors affecting wages.

    For organisations navigating the complexities of talent acquisition and retention the results of this survey provide a valuable benchmark for assessing current approaches and identifying areas for strategic improvement. By leveraging these insights to enhance both compensation structures and communication around pay, companies can create more appealing work environments that attract and retain top talent.

    About foundit – APAC & Middle East

    foundit, formerly Monster (APAC & ME), is Asia’s leading jobs and talent platform offering comprehensive employment solutions to recruiters and job seekers across APAC & ME. In addition to its innovative AI-powered job search, foundit offers e-learning, assessments, and services related to resume creation and interview preparation. foundit has connected over 120 million job seekers across 18 countries with the right job roles and upskilling opportunities.

    Over the last two decades, the company has been a leader in the world of recruitment solutions and has launched cutting-edge tools to give recruiters access to passive candidates in addition to active ones. With its advanced technology, foundit is efficiently bridging the talent gap across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies.

    Today, foundit is committed to enabling and connecting the right talent with the right opportunities by harnessing the power of deep tech to sharpen hyper-personalised job searches and offer precision hiring. Additionally, foundit has been recognised as a Great Place to Work, reflecting its dedication to fostering a supportive and dynamic work culture.

    To learn more about, foundit in APAC & Gulf, visit: www.foundit.sg |www.foundit.com.ph | www.foundit.my | www.foundit.in | www.founditgulf.com | http://www.foundit.hk | www.foundit.id

    Contact:
    For media inquiries or further information, please contact
    Namrata Sharma – Namrata.sharma@adfactorspr.com
    Contact number – +65 81383034

     

  • Salary Reality Gap: 52% of Malaysian Employees See Scope for Salary Growth, foundit Survey Reveals

    Salary Reality Gap: 52% of Malaysian Employees See Scope for Salary Growth, foundit Survey Reveals

    Key findings from the survey: 

    • A majority of professionals (45%) expect a 0-10% growth in their next appraisal
    • 52% of respondents believe their salary is below average compared to industry peers
    • Only 32% of respondents are satisfied with their salary growth opportunities
    • 36% of employees reported no major change in their salary over the past three years
    • Skills in demand (31%) and economic trends (30%) are the primary drivers of current salary trends

    Malaysian employees and employers appear to be on different pages when it comes to compensation, according to new research. A comprehensive salary survey by foundit, a leading jobs platform, reveals that while many professionals see room for salary growth, organisations are focusing on strategic compensation planning to retain talent in a competitive job market. The research highlights evolving compensation trends in Malaysia, with a growing awareness among professionals about market benchmarks. More than half of the surveyed employees recognise the need for salary adjustments to align with industry standards, while nearly half anticipate modest single-digit salary growth in their upcoming reviews.

    These insights present valuable opportunities for organisations to enhance their talent strategies, ensuring competitive compensation structures that attract and retain top talent. With compensation playing a central role in both recruitment success and employee loyalty, these insights into workforce sentiment provide valuable intelligence for business planning.

    V Suresh, CEO of foundit, commented on the findings: “This research offers fascinating insights into Malaysia’s compensation landscape, revealing both challenges and opportunities. The perception gap we’ve identified – where many employees believe their pay falls below industry standards – represents a critical area for employers to address. 

    Malaysian businesses have a compelling opportunity to strengthen their position in the talent market through enhanced salary transparency and more effective communication about compensation. By helping professionals understand how their pay compares to true market rates and developing transparent frameworks for advancement, organisations can better align expectations with reality. This strategic approach benefits not just individual employees but strengthens organisational resilience and competitiveness. For Malaysia to continue its trajectory as a business hub in Southeast Asia, addressing these compensation perception gaps will be instrumental in attracting and retaining the best talent.” 

    Key findings from the survey include: 

    Salary Perception Across Experience Levels 

    • More than half (52%) of employees believe they are underpaid compared to industry peers.
    • 38% feel their salary is above average, while 10% are unsure how their pay compares to market rates.
    • Executive-level professionals (15+ years of experience) have the highest salary awareness, with only 4.48% unaware of market benchmarks, compared to mid-career professionals who display greater uncertainty.

    Satisfaction with Salary Growth 

    • 30% of respondents are dissatisfied with their salary growth opportunities with majority in Engineering and Logistics sector.
    • 38% remain neutral, indicating mixed perceptions about compensation structures.
    • 32% express satisfaction, but satisfaction levels decline as professionals advance in their careers. IT (35.38%) leads in salary growth satisfaction.

    Expected Salary Growth from Appraisal 

    • 45% of professionals expect only a 0-10% salary hike in their next review.
    • 28.7% anticipate a 6-10% increment, while 16.7% foresee just 0-5% growth.
    • 19.5% of professionals aim for substantial increases exceeding 30%.
    • Professionals with 4-6 years of experience are the most optimistic, with nearly 39% expecting 6-10% raises, while senior executives anticipate more conservative increases (0-5%). 

    Salary Changes Over the Past Three Years 

    • 36% of professionals saw no salary growth, indicating wage stagnation.
    • 30% experienced salary reductions (19% minor, 11% significant).
    • 34% received salary hikes (18% modest, 16% substantial), highlighting industry-specific trends.

    Future Salary Expectations: Industry Outlook 

    • Employees in the Engineering & Construction sector expect predictable salary growth (36.36% anticipate 6-10% raises).
    • BFSI professionals have the highest expectations, with more than 50% anticipating 30% above increments. 
    • Entry-level professionals remain the most optimistic, with 79% expecting salary growth, while expectations decline at senior levels (67% among executives).

    Key Drivers of Salary Trends 

    • Skills in Demand: 31.2% of professionals believe in-demand skills significantly impact salaries.
    • Economic Trends: 30.5% see macroeconomic factors shaping pay scales.
    • Sector-Specific Challenges: 18% cite industry constraints as key influencers.
    • Technological Advancements: 12% recognise tech-driven disruptions affecting wages.

    For organisations navigating the complexities of talent acquisition and retention in today’s competitive landscape, this research provides a valuable measuring stick for assessing current approaches and identifying areas for strategic improvement. By leveraging these insights to enhance both compensation structures and communication around pay, companies can create more appealing work environments that attract and retain top talent.

    About foundit – APAC & Middle East 

    foundit, formerly Monster (APAC & ME), is Asia’s leading jobs and talent platform offering comprehensive employment solutions to recruiters and job seekers across APAC & ME. In addition to its innovative AI-powered job search, foundit offers e-learning, assessments, and services related to resume creation and interview preparation. foundit has connected over 120 million job seekers across 18 countries with the right job roles and upskilling opportunities.

    Over the last two decades, the company has been a leader in the world of recruitment solutions and has launched cutting-edge tools to give recruiters access to passive candidates in addition to active ones. With its advanced technology, foundit is efficiently bridging the talent gap across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies.

    Today, foundit is committed to enabling and connecting the right talent with the right opportunities by harnessing the power of deep tech to sharpen hyper-personalised job searches and offer precision hiring. Additionally, foundit has been recognised as a Great Place to Work, reflecting its dedication to fostering a supportive and dynamic work culture.

    To learn more about, foundit in APAC & Gulf, visit: www.foundit.my | www.foundit.sg |www.foundit.com.ph | www.foundit.in | www.founditgulf.com |http://www.foundit.hk | www.foundit.id

    Contact: 
    For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
    Namrata Sharma – Namrata.sharma@adfactorspr.com
    Contact number – +65 81383034

  • Breaking ground: Power Women lay the foundation for the real estate industry’s future

    Breaking ground: Power Women lay the foundation for the real estate industry’s future

    Honouring the trailblazing women who are shaping, innovating, and leading the future of real estate this Women’s Month

    – The invite-only event celebrated five trailblazing women whose innovative leadership is shaping the future of real estate across Asia
    – The honourees represented diverse markets, from Thailand to Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore, highlighting their unique contributions to the property sector
    – The evening spotlighted women breaking barriers, pioneering sustainability, and driving transformative change in the real estate sector

    This Women’s Month, PropertyGuru, Southeast Asia’s leading PropTech company, recognises women driving meaningful change in real estate. Female leaders are actively reshaping skylines and redefining possibilities in the industry.

    On December 12, 2024, the “Celebrating Power Women in Real Estate” event, which followed the annual PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate Summit (ARES), paid tribute to these influential leaders. This exclusive gathering served as a testament to the resilience, vision, and impact of women in real estate.

    Held at the luxurious Kandhavas Place at The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok, the VIP Cocktail Party honoured five extraordinary women whose achievements have laid the foundation for a more inclusive industry. As we mark Women’s Month, their contributions remind us that smart, innovative women are the future of real estate.

    A showcase of women who lead the way

    L-R: Hari Krishnan, CEO & Managing Director, PropertyGuru Group; Jessica Bianca Sy (Philippines); Ixora Ang (Malaysia); Dora Chng (Singapore); Vivin Harsanto (Indonesia); Asst. Prof. Dr. Kessara Thanyalakpark (Thailand); Jules Kay, GM, PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards and Events

    Dora Chng (Singapore)

    As the Residential Director at GuocoLand, Ms. Chng has redefined the development of luxury living spaces in Singapore, shaping some of the city’s most prestigious properties. With nearly two decades of experience, she has driven the success of award-winning projects like Wallich Residence and Martin Modern, creating towering achievements in the region’s real estate landscape.

    “As a leader in the real estate industry, I hope to create more opportunities for everyone across the entire spectrum,” she shared. She encourages women to seize opportunities as they come, advising, “Work hard to earn respect, enjoy the opportunities, and when they come before you, you must know when to grab them.” Beyond her own success, Ms. Chng is also passionate about mentorship, striving to foster a culture of learning, sharing, and continuous improvement within her company and across the industry.

    Ixora Ang (Malaysia)

    A leading lady of Malaysian real estate, Ms. Ang serves as the Managing Director for Marketing & Sales and Business Development at Tropicana Corporation. With over a decade of experience, she has brought innovation to property markets from Klang Valley to Langkawi.

    “At Tropicana Corporation Berhad, one of our key mantras has always been to redefine the art of living, and this award, as well as this event, is a testament to how Tropicana feels,” she said. “A huge part of that is to redefine how we work—and that means creating space for women to take up leadership roles in the workplace.”

    Her next-generation strategies serve as a blueprint for the future of real estate in Malaysia, and she champions leadership that is rooted in authenticity, bravery, and collaboration. “I live by the ABCs: Authenticity—bringing our true selves to the table and accepting others for who they are; Bravery—having the courage to take up space in a corporate environment and groom female talent; and Celebration via Collaboration—recognising that success is built together,” she emphasised.

    Jessica Bianca “Jica” T. Sy (Philippines)

    Ms. Sy, VP & Head of Design, Innovation, and Strategy at SMDC, has been building resilience into real estate development in the Philippines. Her work in integrating disaster risk reduction into property development has weathered storms and inspired progress.

    A key voice for the Philippines at the United Nations Leaders’ Roundtables on Resilient Infrastructure Systems, she has demonstrated that her designs for change go beyond aesthetics—they are about impact and inclusion. “Allowing women to take part and take lead in projects is a huge factor in making sure that women feel empowered and can feel powerful in an industry that is typically male-dominated,” she shared. “We have seen large strides with more designers, real estate developers, and people around the industry truly supporting and being female-centric.”

    Asst. Prof. Dr. Kessara Thanyalakpark (Thailand)

    Dr. Kessara, Managing Director of Sena Development Public Company Limited, has been a leader in sustainable innovation, pioneering solar-powered real estate solutions in Thailand. With her unwavering focus on renewable energy, she has powered up sustainable real estate development in the kingdom while maintaining a commitment to high-quality housing. She received the 2022 Thailand Real Estate Personality of the Year award.

    “It is important for all of us to try and help each other, to raise the bar for all women to see that there is no limitation on what women can do or achieve, even in an industry like ours,” she said, highlighting the importance of supporting and uplifting women in real estate.

    Vivin Harsanto (Indonesia)

    As Senior Director and Head of Advisory of JLL Indonesia, Ms. Harsanto has been a cornerstone of expertise for over 23 years. Her leadership in consulting has positioned her as a reliable advisor on Indonesian real estate. She also serves as the Chairperson of the independent panel of judges for the PropertyGuru Indonesia Property Awards, where she helps raise the bar for industry excellence.

    “At JLL, we focus on creating equitable opportunities and fostering an inclusive environment,” she explained. “By empowering women, fostering collaboration, and providing mentorship, we not only raise the roof—we change the structure altogether.”

    Celebrating women who build the future

    Throughout the evening, attendees toasted to the accomplishments of these extraordinary women. The event showcased how empowerment, diversity, and inclusion work together to improve the industry.

    Guests left the event with a clear takeaway: Women lead the way in shaping tomorrow’s cities.

    The 2024 PropertyGuru ARES VIP Cocktail Party recognised the efforts women made in creating liveable communities, providing actionable insights, mitigating disasters and climate change, and developing sustainable, eco-friendly properties.

    For more information, email ares@propertyguru.com or visit the official website: AsiaRealEstateSummit.com and AsiaPropertyAwards.com.

    ABOUT PROPERTYGURU ASIA REAL ESTATE SUMMIT

    PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate Summit (ARES) is the premier gathering of the industry’s finest minds, top-level business leaders and decision-makers. Designed to ‘educate, innovate and inspire,’ ARES focuses on advancements in property technology, green building, sustainability, diversity, inclusivity, and innovation. More than 500 registered in-person and virtual delegates, comprising real estate and proptech experts, climate heroes, sustainability champions, trendsetters, and tech startup executives from around the region and beyond participate to refresh thinking, exchange ideas and connect with peers at ARES, which features global keynotes, case studies, panel discussions, partner booths and networking lunch.

    ARES is part of the exciting ‘PropertyGuru Week’ in December 2024, coinciding with the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final gala and presentation ceremony, which is joined by the region’s finest real estate developers and leaders, and watched by investors, agents, and consumers via livestream.

    For more information, please visit: AsiaRealEstateSummit.com.

    PROPERTYGURU CONTACTS:

    General Enquiries:
    Richard Allan Aquino, Head of Brand & Marketing Services
    M: +66 92 954 4154
    E: allan@propertyguru.com

    Media & Partnerships:
    Nate Dacua, Senior Manager, Media and Marketing Services
    M: +66 92 701 2510
    E: nate@propertyguru.com

    Piyachanok Raungpaka, Senior Media & Marketing Services Executive
    M: +66 94 887 5163
    E: piyachanok@propertyguru.com

    Marketing:
    Marco Bagna-Dulyachinda, Product Lifecycle Marketing Manager
    M: +66 94 954 4154
    E: marco@propertyguru.com

     

     

  • United Senior Citizens Partylist Pushes for Approval of Universial Social Pension for Seniors

    United Senior Citizens Partylist Pushes for Approval of Universial Social Pension for Seniors

    The United Senior Citizens Partylist is advocating for the passage of the Universal Social Pension, a proposed law that would grant all Filipino senior citizens a monthly pension of PHP 1,000, regardless of financial status.

    Partylist Representative Mila Magsaysay said the measure, currently under deliberation in the Senate, aims to provide greater financial security for the country’s growing elderly population.

    Under the existing Expanded Senior Citizens Act (RA 7432), only indigent senior citizens—those without regular income or financial support—receive a PHP 1,000 monthly stipend from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

    Non-indigent seniors receive only PHP 500 per month. The proposed Universal Social Pension would ensure that all seniors, regardless of financial background, receive equal support, recognizing their contributions to society and addressing their healthcare and daily living needs.

    The partylist also expressed support for the DSWD’s proposal to issue a unified Senior Citizens ID, aiming to prevent the spread of fake IDs and ensure businesses properly honor discounts. Reports of fraudulent senior citizen IDs have led some establishments to deny discounts, affecting legitimate elderly customers.

    Magsaysay noted that at least 50 complaints from seniors have been filed with their office, alleging that businesses refused to honor their mandatory 20% discount on purchases and services. She urged affected seniors to report violations to the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) for proper action.

    “Kasi kung minsan hindi natin makokontrol baka naman may nag-iissue ng OSCA-card na fake. So mas maganda siguro kung unified na,” she told reporters, emphasizing that a standardized system would help eliminate fraud and improve access to benefits.

    The United Senior Citizens Partylist, which was elected in 2022 as one of 55 partylist groups, visited Cebu and Bohol to engage with senior citizen federations. Magsaysay was accompanied by partylist nominees Ted de Leon and Katrina Nepumuceno, who reiterated their commitment to championing policies that enhance the welfare of elderly Filipinos.

    In addition to the Universal Social Pension, the partylist is pushing for stronger protections against elder abuse, including stiffer penalties for neglect and mistreatment of seniors; mandatory geriatric centers in every local government unit, ensuring accessible healthcare services for the elderly; better implementation of existing senior citizen privileges, including discounts and priority lanes in public and private establishments.

    Magsaysay also reminded businesses to comply with the Senior Citizens Act, stating that failure to honor the mandated 20% discount is a violation of the law.

    HOPEURWELL: A Holistic Approach to Senior Welfare

    The United Senior Citizens Partylist continues to promote its advocacy called HOPEURWELL, which stands for Health, Opportunities, Protection, Empowerment, Universal Social Pension, Recreation, Wellness, Enjoyment, and Long Life.

    This initiative seeks to improve the quality of life for senior citizens by addressing financial security, healthcare, social inclusion, and overall well-being.

    With the Universal Social Pension bill awaiting Senate approval, the partylist remains focused on pushing for inclusive policies that ensure all Filipino seniors receive fair benefits and protections in their later years.

    BusinessNews.ph

  • Empower your Heart Health with LAC This World Heart Day!

    People often associate the matters of the heart with emotional experiences, but heart health is a critical aspect that often goes unnoticed until it is too late. Today, heart health is not only associated with high cholesterol levels and blood pressure. The difference in an individual’s ethnicity and lifestyle causes varying susceptibilities to cardiovascular diseases, further compounding the risk factors for heart health. In Singapore alone, cardiovascular diseases kill 1 out of every 3 people, a number that is not only shocking, but also worrying.

    While maintaining an active lifestyle and consuming healthy food are fundamental to improving the heart health of individuals, Singaporeans engaging in sufficient physical activity has decreased by nearly 10% since 2022. This lack of physical activity, coupled with increased stress levels and other socio-economic factors contribute to fat and plaque buildup in and around the heart and arteries, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

    This World Heart Day on 29 September, LAC (pronounced as L-A-C) aims to support good heart health through LAC Activated® Heart Protect™.

    Heart attacks are typically caused by plaque build-up in the arteries, which restricts smooth blood flow to the heart and can eventually lead to blood clots. Alongside regular physical activity, LAC Activated® Heart Protect™ can support heart health. Formulated with Nattokinase, a powerful enzyme with anti-clotting properties, it helps to prevent blood clots and promote better circulation.

    In addition, the LAC Activated® Heart Protect™ also contains Hawthorn and Lecithin, which work together to manage cholesterol levels and promote healthy blood circulation.

  • Panglao Orders Closure of Villa Tomasa Q Resort for Lack of Permit

    Panglao Orders Closure of Villa Tomasa Q Resort for Lack of Permit

    PANGLAO, Bohol — The local government of Panglao has ordered the immediate closure of Villa Tomasa Q, a popular resort on the island, for allegedly operating without a valid business permit.

    The resort, formerly known as Alona Kew White Beach Resort, received a closure order after failing to renew its business permit for 2024, despite receiving a notice over 10 days ago from the Business Permit Licensing Office of Panglao.

    “Based on the foregoing factual setting, you cannot anymore blame us for not giving you the right to due process, if the LGU Panglao through the undersigned Chief Executive will exercise its police power to issue a closure order to your establishment for operating a hotel and resort without a business permit,” the order reads.

    The enforcement of the closure was carried out on Tuesday afternoon. Subsequently, the property reverted to the control of its original owners, Eteria Evelyn Naval-Flores and Magileo Wilfredo Flores.

    The closure is the latest development in a series of legal challenges involving the property. The resort’s lessees, the Guardos from Cebu City, reportedly failed to meet their monthly rental payments, accumulating arrears of P63.9 million as of April 2024, according to documents provided by the Flores family.

    Despite the contractual breach, the Floreses had delayed taking legal action, opting instead for negotiations that ultimately fell through when the lessees rejected a restructuring proposal.

    On March 27, 2024, after rejecting the lessees’ counter-proposal, the Floreses demanded full payment of the outstanding balance and vacated the premises. The lessees have since ceased all payments and refused to vacate the property, the legal documents indicate.

    Efforts to reach the Guardos for comment have been made, and an update will be provided once a response is received.

  • FAPSA to Host National Convergence for Small and Medium-Sized Private Schools in Cebu

    FAPSA to Host National Convergence for Small and Medium-Sized Private Schools in Cebu

    The Federation of Associations of Private School Administrators (FAPSA) is gearing up for its 26th annual National Convergence on April 4 and 5, 2024, at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

    This year’s event, themed “Strengthening the Synergistic Partnerships Among Small and Medium-Sized Private Schools,” aims to unite these institutions to collectively address their concerns to the government.

    FAPSA President Dr. Reynaldo Chua Jr. emphasized the significance of collaboration among small and medium-sized private schools to voice their challenges and needs to the government effectively.

    The convergence is expected to feature discussions on the latest educational updates, sharing of best practices, and the adoption of technology in academia.

    Originally focused on administrators, FAPSA has evolved into a broader educational community, now encompassing teachers, non-teaching personnel, parents, and students across various private educational institutions.

    This expansion allows FAPSA to better represent the interests of its members when consulting with the Department of Education (DepEd) and other government entities.

    A key issue to be addressed is the provision of government subsidies for students from kindergarten to Grade 10, building on the subsidies already provided to senior high school students in private schools.

    This effort is part of FAPSA’s broader objective to enhance the Philippine education system’s quality and global competitiveness.

    The event will also feature plenary sessions with notable speakers from DepEd and breakout sessions for school owners, administrators, teachers, parents, and students on various topics, including the use of AI technology in education and developing human capital in the digital economy.




    Special messages are expected from Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, Secretary of Education, and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, highlighting the importance of partnerships among private schools for effective advocacy.

    The two-day convergence will conclude with an oath-taking ceremony and the “Haligi Ng Karunungan Recognition” for significant contributors to the private education sector, underscoring FAPSA’s commitment to advancing education in the Philippines. – BusinessNews.ph

  • Spikes Asia announces 2024 winners including the Special Awards and Young Spikes Competition winners

    Spikes Asia announces 2024 winners including the Special Awards and Young Spikes Competition winners

    Spikes Asia, APAC’s most prestigious and sought-after award for creativity and marketing effectiveness, has revealed the Grands Prix and Special Award winners for 2024 this evening.

    Australia saw the highest number of Grands Prix at eight, including five Grands Prix for ‘FitChix’, for Honest Eggs Co., entered by VML, Melbourne. Japan took home six Grands Prix, including three for ‘My Japan Railway’, for JR Group, by Dentsu Inc, Tokyo, in Industry Craft, Digital Craft and Direct. In its inaugural year, the Gaming Spikes Grand Prix was awarded to the Philippines for ‘Unbranded Menu’, for McDonald’s, entered by Leo Burnett, Manila.

    Speaking about the Winners, Simon Cook, CEO, LIONS, said: “Congratulations to our 2024 Spikes Asia Award winners. What an exciting time for creative marketing in this very special part of the world. This region continues to be a creative powerhouse, and this is reflected in the body of work awarded by our expert Juries this year. The breadth of the winners showcases the region’s collective effort to elevate the role of creativity in driving business performance and positive change in the world. Thank you to our wonderful Jurors, for setting the creative standard for the year ahead.”

    Jaime Ng, Festival Director, Spikes Asia, added: “We’re excited to announce the 2024 Award winners for Spikes Asia, after a fantastic event this week. This year we brought the APAC community together to network, learn and be inspired by the rich mix of speakers and champions for creativity in the region. There are lots of exciting shifts taking place in APAC and we look forward to exploring the insights and trends from this year’s work in the Spikes Asia Creativity Report. This report will also provide the official rankings for this year’s top performing Networks, Agencies and Companies from across the region.”

    This year’s Grand Prix winners are:

    Brand Experience & Activation

    From 423 entries received, 35 Spikes were awarded: 4 Gold, 12 Silver, 18 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘FitChix’, for Honest Eggs Co., by VML, Melbourne, Australia

    Creative Commerce

    From 61 entries received, 5 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘FitChix’, for Honest Eggs Co., by VML, Melbourne, Australia

    Creative Data

    From 35 entries received, 5 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Lay’s Smart Farm’, for Lay’s, by Leo Burnett, Mumbai, India

    Creative Effectiveness

    From 46 entries received, 5 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 3 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘The Last Performance’, for Partners Life, by Special, Auckland, New Zealand

    Creative Strategy

    From 181 entries received, 15 Spikes were awarded: 2 Gold, 4 Silver, 8 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘The First Digital Nation’, for The Government of Tuvalu, by The Monkeys, Part of Accenture Song, Sydney, Australia

    Design

    From 124 entries received, 12 Spikes were awarded: 3 Gold, 3 Silver, 5 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Untangling The Politics Of Hair’, for STIR, by FCB India, Gurugram, India

    Digital Craft

    From 59 entries received, 5 Spikes were awarded: 2 Silver, 2 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘My Japan Railway’, for JR Group, by Dentsu Inc, Tokyo, Japan

    Direct

    From 234 entries received, 15 Spikes were awarded: 2 Gold, 5 Silver, 7 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘My Japan Railway’, for JR Group, by Dentsu Inc, Tokyo, Japan

    Entertainment

    From 134 entries received, 10 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 3 Silver, 5 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Perfect Days’, for Perfect Days, by Mount / Dentsu Inc, Tokyo, Japan

    Film

    From 370 entries received, 25 Spikes were awarded: 4 Gold, 7 Silver, 13 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Sammakorn Not Sanpakorn’, for Sammakorn, by Choojai and Friends, Bangkok, Thailand

    Film Craft

    From 327 entries received, 34 Spikes were awarded: 6 Gold, 8 Silver, 19 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘This is Footy Country’, for Telstra, by The Monkeys, Part Of Accenture Song, Sydney, Australia

    Gaming

    From 55 entries received, 5 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Unbranded Menu’, for McDonald’s, by Leo Burnett, Manila, The Philippines

    Glass: The Award for Change

    From 20 entries received, 2 Spikes were awarded: 1 Glass Spike and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Right to Care’, for Quenzon City Gender and Development Council, by MullenLowe Treyna, Makati City, the Philippines

    Grand Prix for Good

    The Grand Prix for Good was awarded to ‘Shift 20 Initiative’, for Shift 20 Initiative, by Special, Sydney / Dylan Alcott Foundation, Melbourne, Australia

    Healthcare

    From 118 entries received, 12 Spikes were awarded: 2 Gold, 4 Silver, 5 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘FitChix’, for Honest Eggs Co., by VML, Melbourne, Australia

    Industry Craft

    From 79 entries received, 7 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 2 Silver, 3 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘My Japan Railway’, for JR Group, by Dentsu Inc, Tokyo, Japan

    Innovation

    From 26 entries received, 4 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Shellmet’, for Koushi Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., by TBWA\HAKUHODO INC., Tokyo, Japan

    Integrated

    From 33 entries received, 3 Spikes were awarded: 2 Silver and the Grand Prix that went to ‘FitChix’, for Honest Eggs Co., by VML, Melbourne, Australia

    Media

    From 203 entries received, 16 Spikes were awarded: 2 Gold, 5 Silver, 8 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Newspaper For “Lettuce Preservation”’, for「COOKDO®︎」, by Dentsu Inc, Tokyo, Japan

    Music

    From 60 entries received, 6 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 2 Silver, 2 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Megh Santoor’, for Brooke Bond, by Ogilvy, Mumbai, India

    Outdoor

    From 183 entries received, 14 Spikes were awarded: 3 Gold, 3 Silver, 7 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘FitChix’, for Honest Eggs Co., by VML, Melbourne, Australia

    PR

    From 184 entries received, 17 Spikes were awarded: 2 Gold, 5 Silver, 9 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Correct The Internet’, for Team Heroine, by DDB New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand

    Print & Publishing

    From 48 entries received, 4 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Seal Alarm’, for The Times of India, by VML / Wunderman Thompson, Mumbai, India

    Radio & Audio

    From 43 entries received, 5 Spikes were awarded: 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Guide Play’, for JBL, by BLKJ HAVAS, Singapore

    Social & Influencer

    From 143 entries received, 11 Spikes were awarded: 2 Gold, 3 Silver, 5 Bronze and the Grand Prix that went to ‘Correct The Internet’, for Team Heroine, by DDB New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand

    Spikes Asia Special Awards were given as follows:

    Asia-Pacific Agency of the Year

    1. Dentsu Inc, Tokyo, Japan
    2. VML, Melbourne, Australia
    3. The Monkeys, Part of Accenture Song, Sydney, Australia

    Independent Agency of the Year

    1. Special, Sydney, Australia
    2. Choojai and Friends, Bangkok, Thailand
    3. Special, Auckland, New Zealand

    Network of the Year

    1. dentsu
    2. VML
    3. Accenture Song

    Media Network of the Year

    1. Mindshare
    2. Wavemaker
    3. Starcom

    Spikes Palm

    1. Exit Films, Australia
    2. Revolver, Australia
    3. Spoon, Japan

    Strategy & Effectiveness Agency of the Year

    1. The Monkeys, Part of Accenture Song, Sydney, Australia
    2. Special, Auckland, New Zealand
    3. Colenso BBDO, Auckland, New Zealand

    Young Spikes Competition winners are as follows:

    Digital:

    Gold
    ‘Save Singapore’
    Amaya Suriyapperuma & Arqam Anjath
    Loops Integrated, Sri Lanka

    Silver
    ‘Feel What We Feel’
    Anggani Sekar Astuti Hardani & Mbarep Arya Warigalit
    Bikin Ide Kreatif, Indonesia

    Bronze
    ‘How is the weather inside?’
    Kim Sae Young & Kang Ji Hye
    ptkorea, South Korea

    Integrated:

    Gold
    ‘GIRLS OWN CHOICE’
    Flavia Wang & Noah Song
    Mindshare, Mainland China

    Silver
    ‘All You Can Dream’
    Nellia & Davin Susanto
    Future Creative Network, Indonesia

    Bronze
    ‘THINK WITH YOUR CLOCK’
    Yi Rong, Sandie Chan & Carissa Almira Djawas
    Iris Singapore, Singapore

    PR:

    Gold
    ‘H20 for Mental Health’
    Ginola Tan & Tan Yuan Ling
    Govt Pte Ltd., Singapore

    Silver
    ‘Seeing Beyond Faces’
    Rhonda Wong & Shalom Lim
    VML, Singapore

    Bronze
    ‘CHEERS GIFT’
    Yuto Nakajima & Yukie Takasu
    HAKUHODO, Japan

    The Spikes Asia Creativity Report will be released on Thursday 28 March, which shines a light on the best Asian creativity, as selected by Spikes Juries. The Report will feature interviews with winners about how the work was created, insights from Jurors, trends and themes that have emerged, along with the annual rankings for this year’s top performing Networks, Agencies and Companies from APAC. All results can be found at https://www.lovethework.com/work-awards/awards/spikes-asia.

    About Spikes Asia

    Spikes Asia, the home of Asia-Pacific creativity, is the region’s oldest and most prestigious awards for creative advertising. Building on over 35 years of the illustrious Spikes Awards and Tangrams Strategy & Effectiveness Awards, Spikes Asia is the result of a collaboration between Ascential, the organiser of Cannes Lions and Haymarket, publisher of Campaign Asia-Pacific.

    Spikes Asia celebrates creative excellence in the Asia-Pacific region alongside learning and networking opportunities. The Awards serve as the definitive benchmark for creative excellence, marketing strategy and effectiveness in Asia-Pacific. www.spikes.asia

    About Ascential

    Ascential delivers specialist information, analytics and events to the world’s leading consumer brands and their ecosystems. Our world-class businesses improve performance and solve customer problems by delivering immediately actionable information combined with visionary longer-term thinking across Product Design, Marketing and Retail & Financial Services.

    We serve customers in over 120 countries, bringing local knowledge and connections to our global customer base. Ascential is listed on the London Stock Exchange.

    www.lionscreativity.com | www.canneslions.com | www.ascential.com

    About Haymarket

    Haymarket Media Group creates award-winning specialist content and information for international audiences. The company has more than 70 market-leading brands created by world-class experts in locations in the UK, the US, Hong Kong, Singapore, India and Germany. Haymarket’s consumer and professional brands connect people and communities across digital, mobile, print and live/virtual media platforms. Although Haymarket’s portfolio is diverse, its mission is the same across borders and markets: to deliver brand experiences which truly meet the needs of its audiences and clients. Haymarket’s brands include Campaign, PRWeek, What Car?, Autocar, AsianInvestor and Finance Asia. www.haymarket.com

    Contacts:

    Jaime Ng
    Festival Director
    Spikes Asia
    JaimeN@spikes.asia

    Camilla Lambert
    PR Director
    Spikes Asia
    CamillaL@canneslions.com

    Tash Naidoo
    Senior PR Manager
    Spikes Asia
    TashN@canneslions.com

    Press Portal:
    Press.canneslions.com

    Awards Entries:
    awards@spikes.asia

  • Society Pass Inc (Nasdaq: SOPA) / Thoughtful Media Group Inc Ventures into Concert Sponsoring in Indonesia

    Society Pass Inc (Nasdaq: SOPA) / Thoughtful Media Group Inc Ventures into Concert Sponsoring in Indonesia

    Thoughtful Media Group Inc (“Thoughtful Media” or “TMG”), the Thailand-based social commerce-focused, premium digital advertising network of Society Pass Incorporated (“SoPa”) (Nasdaq: SOPA), Southeast Asia’s (SEA) next generation, data-driven, loyalty, fintech and e-commerce ecosystem, today announces that it will commence sponsoring local live music events in SEA, resulting in creating unique marketing opportunities for advertisers.

    Expected to launch its first concert in 4Q 2023 in Jakarta, Indonesia, TMG-sponsored concerts will focus on the local musicians with a tag line of “Lemburan”, which translates as “over-time”, aiming to create a distinctive space and time for music fans to gather and to enjoy the nostalgia of their favourite musicians. Streaming these concerts via TMG-affiliated social media channels, advertisers have the opportunity to collaborate with TMG-connected influencers in promoting these popular music events and reaching to their desired audiences.

    Ilhamka Nizam, TMG Indonesia Country Head, explains, “Indonesians love music, and it comes as no surprise that TMG found an innovative way to tap into that expanding market segment. Across these live events, TMG aims to reach over 2.5 million over the course of the next year which will create significant sponsorship opportunities for advertisers and our 10,000-member influencer community here in Indonesia. We are planning to host 1 concert each month and is projected to earn $680K annually, and each year we are planning to host 1 big festival that is outside the monthly concerts we will be hosting. I am confident that over 2024, the Group will expand these initiatives across the rest of the TMG markets in Southeast Asia, significantly increasing the revenues for the Group”.

    About Thoughtful Media Group Inc.

    Founded in 2010, Thoughtful Media Group is the leading digital advertising platform in SEA. Through our network of more than 10,000 talented creators across multiple industries in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Philippines, we help brands maximise marketing budgets and achieve business objectives through some of the most innovative marketing campaigns in the region.

    In July 2022, Society Pass (Nasdaq: SOPA), the next generation acquisition-focused fintech and e-commerce ecosystem in SEA, acquired TMG. Since then, TMG has fully evolved into a digital-first and fully integrated advertising powerhouse, servicing creators and advertisers in SEA.

    For more information on TMG, please visit:
    Website at www.thoughtfulmedia.com or
    LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thoughtful-media-group-inc or
    Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thoughtfulmedia/ or
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thoughtfulmediaasia or
    Twitter at https://twitter.com/ThoughtfulMedia.

    About Society Pass Inc.

    Founded in 2018 as a data-driven loyalty, fintech and e-commerce ecosystem in the fast-growing markets of Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, which account for more than 80% of the SEA population, and with offices located in Angeles, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, Manila, and Singapore, Society Pass Incorporated (Nasdaq: SOPA) is an acquisition-focused holding company operating 6 interconnected verticals (loyalty, digital media, travel, telecoms, lifestyle, and F&B), which seamlessly connects millions of registered consumers and hundreds of thousands of registered merchants/brands across multiple product and service categories throughout SEA.

    Society Pass completed an initial public offering and began trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker SOPA in November 2021.

    SoPa acquires fast growing e-commerce companies and expands its user base across a robust product and service ecosystem. SoPa integrates these complementary businesses through its signature Society Pass fintech platform and circulation of its universal loyalty points or Society Points, which has entered beta testing and is expected to launch broadly at the beginning of 2023. Society Pass loyalty program members earn and redeem Society Points and receive personalised promotions based on SoPa’s data capabilities and understanding of consumer shopping behaviour. SoPa has amassed more than 3.6 million registered consumers and over 650,000 registered merchants and brands. It has invested 2+ years building proprietary IT architecture to effectively scale and support its consumers, merchants, and acquisitions.

    Society Pass leverages technology to tailor a more personalised experience for customers in the purchase journey and to transform the entire retail value chain in SEA. SoPa operates Thoughtful Media Group, a Thailand-based, a social commerce-focused, premium digital video multi-platform network; NusaTrip, a leading Indonesia-based Online Travel Agency; VLeisure, Vietnam’s leading provider of hotel management and payment solutions; Gorilla Global, a Singapore-based, mobile network operator;  Leflair.com, Vietnam’s leading lifestyle e-commerce platform; and NextGen Retail, a Indonesia-based e-commerce platform.

    For more information on Society Pass, please visit:
    Website at https://www.thesocietypass.com or
    LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/societypass  or
    Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thesocietypass  or
    Twitter at https://twitter.com/society_pass or
    Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/societypass/.

    Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may include “forward-looking statements,” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management team, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, the Company’s management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors detailed in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are qualified in their entirety by this paragraph. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s registration statement and prospectus relating to the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Media Contacts:
    Rokas Sidlauskas
    Chief Marketing Officer
    rokas@thesocietypass.com