The top U.S. nuclear negotiator Christopher Hill has met with his North Korean counterpart in Singapore to end an impasse over talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear program. VOA's Nancy-Amelia Collins in Jakarta has more.U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Hill says a meeting in Singapore with North Korea's Vice Foreign Minister Kim Kye Gwan went well and he hoped to make further announcements soon.
South Korean media reported earlier Kim saying there had been a "considerable narrowing of differences of views."
Hill told journalists shortly before the meeting started at the U.S. embassy in Singapore he did not expect the talks to reach an agreement, but warned time is running out.
"We are not looking for an agreement," Hill said. "I think we are looking to have a consultation on some of the issues that have kept us apart for several months. Certainly I will be discussing the fact that we are kind of running out of time."
The talks have stalled since late last year, after North Korea failed to declare a full inventory of its nuclear activities and facilities as called for under a landmark deal struck in six-party talks with the United States, China, Japan, Russia, and the two Koreas in February 2007.
Pyongyang says it provided the list in November, but the United States says it was incomplete.
The United States also wants North Korea to clear up allegations it has a secret uranium-enrichment program.
North Korea began disabling its main nuclear facilities last year in exchange for aid and diplomatic concessions under the six-party talks framework.
Hill will travel Wednesday to Beijing to meet with the heads of delegations from Japan, China, South Korea and brief the Russian ambassador to China.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Police defend Singapore recruitment plan
Police human resources general manager Wayne Annan confirmed today police had been speaking to their Singapore counterparts about recruiting a group of up to 20 Singaporean officers in order to boost understanding of Asian culture among local police.
"The purpose of it is for New Zealand police to be able to learn about Asian cultures."
It had nothing to do with meeting recruitment targets, he said.
"The New Zealand Police are currently at full strength," he told NZPA.
"We currently have a waiting list of people looking to join. We're going to finish this year just slightly above or one person below the target for this financial year and our plans into next year are that we can satisfy those numbers."
Talks had taken place at a "high level", but it was still at a concept stage and no concrete measures had yet been taken to recruit Singaporean officers, most of whom would be ethnically Chinese.
At present most Singaporean officers retired at 45 and it was possible police would propose a scheme where they could come and do a stint in New Zealand once they hit that age.
However, it was possible that retirement age was about to change. If that was the case, then seconding officers or an exchange between the countries were options to achieve the same goal.
Mr Annan said Singapore was chosen as it had a similar colonial past and legal system to New Zealand, it was multicultural and most people spoke good English.
It was also about the same size as New Zealand.
NZ First deputy leader Peter Brown last week voiced concern about high numbers of Asian immigrants, who he said sometimes failed to integrate into New Zealand society.
But NZ First's law and order spokesman Ron Mark told NZPA the party had no problem with recruiting cops from Singapore.
The plan had nothing to do with filling the 1000 extra cops, which police were well on to the way to getting.
The aim was to get a police force that more accurately reflected the population.
"Back in 2002 I was telling the police they should be recruiting from Hong Kong," he said.
"I welcome it actually. New Zealand First thinks it's a good idea. We have a lot in common with Singapore."
Asked about Mr Brown's concerns, Mr Mark said immigration policy did need to be debated.
The debate for NZ First had always been about "having people that we need, not people who need us".
"We need police officers of Asian background," he said.
"We do need officers in New Zealand who speak Mandarin, who speak Cantonese, who understand the culture."
Police had also been doing well at encouraging more Maori recruits, he said.
"The purpose of it is for New Zealand police to be able to learn about Asian cultures."
It had nothing to do with meeting recruitment targets, he said.
"The New Zealand Police are currently at full strength," he told NZPA.
"We currently have a waiting list of people looking to join. We're going to finish this year just slightly above or one person below the target for this financial year and our plans into next year are that we can satisfy those numbers."
Talks had taken place at a "high level", but it was still at a concept stage and no concrete measures had yet been taken to recruit Singaporean officers, most of whom would be ethnically Chinese.
At present most Singaporean officers retired at 45 and it was possible police would propose a scheme where they could come and do a stint in New Zealand once they hit that age.
However, it was possible that retirement age was about to change. If that was the case, then seconding officers or an exchange between the countries were options to achieve the same goal.
Mr Annan said Singapore was chosen as it had a similar colonial past and legal system to New Zealand, it was multicultural and most people spoke good English.
It was also about the same size as New Zealand.
NZ First deputy leader Peter Brown last week voiced concern about high numbers of Asian immigrants, who he said sometimes failed to integrate into New Zealand society.
But NZ First's law and order spokesman Ron Mark told NZPA the party had no problem with recruiting cops from Singapore.
The plan had nothing to do with filling the 1000 extra cops, which police were well on to the way to getting.
The aim was to get a police force that more accurately reflected the population.
"Back in 2002 I was telling the police they should be recruiting from Hong Kong," he said.
"I welcome it actually. New Zealand First thinks it's a good idea. We have a lot in common with Singapore."
Asked about Mr Brown's concerns, Mr Mark said immigration policy did need to be debated.
The debate for NZ First had always been about "having people that we need, not people who need us".
"We need police officers of Asian background," he said.
"We do need officers in New Zealand who speak Mandarin, who speak Cantonese, who understand the culture."
Police had also been doing well at encouraging more Maori recruits, he said.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Pigs to be exported to Singapore
Sarawak's first ultra-modern pig farm being developed in Pasir Puteh, Balai Ringin along the Pan Borneo highway will export live animals to Singapore.
State Veterinary Authority's senior assistant director Dr Chin Vei Ching said the farm was expected to meet some 30% of Singapore's pork requirements by 2017.
''Seventy-seven pig farmers in Kuching and Samarahan Divisions have agreed to relocate their farms to Pasir Puteh in phases from late this year,'' he said during a briefing on the project Sunday.
The briefing was given to state Environment and Public Health Minister Datuk Michael Manyin, state Assistant Minister for Food Industry Datuk David Teng Lung Chi and state Assistant Minister for Public Health Datuk Dr Soon Choon Teck.
Dr Chin said the RM70mil+ farm project on some 40 hectares was being carried out in three packages with both federal and state funding.
A company known as Farmers' Union Sdn Bhd has been set up to manage the farm which would have environmental-friendly production methods to reduce pollution
State Veterinary Authority's senior assistant director Dr Chin Vei Ching said the farm was expected to meet some 30% of Singapore's pork requirements by 2017.
''Seventy-seven pig farmers in Kuching and Samarahan Divisions have agreed to relocate their farms to Pasir Puteh in phases from late this year,'' he said during a briefing on the project Sunday.
The briefing was given to state Environment and Public Health Minister Datuk Michael Manyin, state Assistant Minister for Food Industry Datuk David Teng Lung Chi and state Assistant Minister for Public Health Datuk Dr Soon Choon Teck.
Dr Chin said the RM70mil+ farm project on some 40 hectares was being carried out in three packages with both federal and state funding.
A company known as Farmers' Union Sdn Bhd has been set up to manage the farm which would have environmental-friendly production methods to reduce pollution
Longer queues for free food in wealthy Singapore
Rising food prices are driving more people in Singapore, the wealthiest economy in Southeast Asia, to join the queue for free meals, charities said Monday.
Thirty percent more people are turning up daily to fill their stomachs at the Singapore Buddhist Lodge, which serves free vegetarian meals, the temple's president Lee Bock Guan said.
During weekends the figures are even higher, when about 5,000 people arrive for the free food compared to 3,000 three months ago, he told AFP.
"Food prices have gone up and for them, their wages have not gone up as much," he said, adding the needy are coming from all walks of life.
"Their income is not enough to cope with the higher food prices."
Lee said donations from some of the temple's wealthiest members are still strong, allowing it to handle the rising demand.
The Care Corner Seniors Activity Centre, which serves free breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, said inflation has led 10 percent more elderly citizens to turn up for meals, compared with two months ago.
Some of them have started to take more food at lunch and bring the extra home for their dinner, said a centre worker who declined to be named.
The Young Women's Christian Association, which cooks meals and delivers them to the needy, said it is operating at peak capacity serving 200 people each day -- despite a drop in rice donations.
"One of the possible reasons could be the increasing price of rice," programme executive Han Shin Hui said, adding donations of other food items such as biscuits have increased.
She said the organisation has had to use its own funds to cover the drop in rice donations.
Singapore is an island state that imports virtually all its food needs.
Consumer price index inflation reached 6.6 percent in January-February, up from 0.8 percent in the first half of last year, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) said last week.
MAS announced it had tightened monetary policy in a bid to address the price rises.
Thirty percent more people are turning up daily to fill their stomachs at the Singapore Buddhist Lodge, which serves free vegetarian meals, the temple's president Lee Bock Guan said.
During weekends the figures are even higher, when about 5,000 people arrive for the free food compared to 3,000 three months ago, he told AFP.
"Food prices have gone up and for them, their wages have not gone up as much," he said, adding the needy are coming from all walks of life.
"Their income is not enough to cope with the higher food prices."
Lee said donations from some of the temple's wealthiest members are still strong, allowing it to handle the rising demand.
The Care Corner Seniors Activity Centre, which serves free breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, said inflation has led 10 percent more elderly citizens to turn up for meals, compared with two months ago.
Some of them have started to take more food at lunch and bring the extra home for their dinner, said a centre worker who declined to be named.
The Young Women's Christian Association, which cooks meals and delivers them to the needy, said it is operating at peak capacity serving 200 people each day -- despite a drop in rice donations.
"One of the possible reasons could be the increasing price of rice," programme executive Han Shin Hui said, adding donations of other food items such as biscuits have increased.
She said the organisation has had to use its own funds to cover the drop in rice donations.
Singapore is an island state that imports virtually all its food needs.
Consumer price index inflation reached 6.6 percent in January-February, up from 0.8 percent in the first half of last year, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) said last week.
MAS announced it had tightened monetary policy in a bid to address the price rises.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Singapore hot investment destination for India Inc
Singapore has emerged as the top destination for overseas investment by Indian companies, with more than USD 10 billion parked there in April-December 2007- 08, up 13 per cent from year-ago levels, says a RBI report.
"Direction of investment indicates that 37 per cent of the approvals for outward FDI (of USD 5 million and above) were towards Singapore, followed by the Netherlands (26 per cent) and British Virgin Islands (8 per cent)," the report said.
According to the RBI report, India's overseas investment, which began initially with the acquisition of foreign companies in the information technology and related services sector, "has of late, spread to wider areas like manufacturing, financial and non-financial services."
The rise in both the numbers and the amount of approved proposals, the RBI said, "Is reflective of large overseas acquisition deals by Indian corporate facilitated by progressive liberalisation of the external sector policies."
The RBI report further said equity investment accounted for almost 90 per cent of the total outward investments, followed by loans and guarantees.
The outward FDI flow, which was USD 1.8 billion in 2004-05, increased to USD 4.9 billion the next year and more than doubled to USD 12.8 billion in 2006-07.
The trend has continued in 2007-08, with outward FDI increasing to more than USD 10 billion during (April-December 2007) compared to about USD 9 billion in the corresponding period in the previous year.
"Direction of investment indicates that 37 per cent of the approvals for outward FDI (of USD 5 million and above) were towards Singapore, followed by the Netherlands (26 per cent) and British Virgin Islands (8 per cent)," the report said.
According to the RBI report, India's overseas investment, which began initially with the acquisition of foreign companies in the information technology and related services sector, "has of late, spread to wider areas like manufacturing, financial and non-financial services."
The rise in both the numbers and the amount of approved proposals, the RBI said, "Is reflective of large overseas acquisition deals by Indian corporate facilitated by progressive liberalisation of the external sector policies."
The RBI report further said equity investment accounted for almost 90 per cent of the total outward investments, followed by loans and guarantees.
The outward FDI flow, which was USD 1.8 billion in 2004-05, increased to USD 4.9 billion the next year and more than doubled to USD 12.8 billion in 2006-07.
The trend has continued in 2007-08, with outward FDI increasing to more than USD 10 billion during (April-December 2007) compared to about USD 9 billion in the corresponding period in the previous year.
Singapore Youth Olympics chief calls for respect for torch relay
Ng Ser Miang, an International Olympic Committee Executive Board member from Singapore, on Monday called for respect for the Olympics torch relay as it is a symbol of peace and friendship.
Ng, also chairman of the Organizing Committee for the inaugural Singapore Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in 2010, told Xinhua on the sidelines of a seminar on YOG, that he felt sad that the torch relay encountered some disruptions in London, Paris and San Francisco.
"But we are happy that it was going smoothly at the latter stops which saw a lot of protection and excitement in welcoming the torch," he said.
"I believe that it will get respect", because "it is a very important symbol for Olympic movements, and also a symbol of peace and friendship," he added.
He also expressed his confidence in the successful organization of the Beijing Games. "Last week during the IOC executive board meeting in Beijing, we discussed a lot about the preparations of Beijing Olympics. It was excellent and we are looking forward to an excellent organization of the Olympic Games."
An 11-member IOC team is in Singapore to conduct a six-day orientation seminar to assist the organizing committee for the Singapore Youth Olympic Games in its preparations for the games.
Ng, also chairman of the Organizing Committee for the inaugural Singapore Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in 2010, told Xinhua on the sidelines of a seminar on YOG, that he felt sad that the torch relay encountered some disruptions in London, Paris and San Francisco.
"But we are happy that it was going smoothly at the latter stops which saw a lot of protection and excitement in welcoming the torch," he said.
"I believe that it will get respect", because "it is a very important symbol for Olympic movements, and also a symbol of peace and friendship," he added.
He also expressed his confidence in the successful organization of the Beijing Games. "Last week during the IOC executive board meeting in Beijing, we discussed a lot about the preparations of Beijing Olympics. It was excellent and we are looking forward to an excellent organization of the Olympic Games."
An 11-member IOC team is in Singapore to conduct a six-day orientation seminar to assist the organizing committee for the Singapore Youth Olympic Games in its preparations for the games.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Asia-Pacific military medical forum opens in Singapore
Singapore held a forum on Monday for military medical professionals in the Asia-Pacific region to discuss scientific and military medical cooperation.
The 18th Asia-Pacific Military Medicine Conference was co-hosted by the Singapore Armed Forces and the United States Army Pacific Command. Over 600 military medical professionals from morethan 30 countries and regions were attending the conference.
In his speech, Singapore's Defense Minister Teo Chee Hean highlighted the importance of the conference in helping to build understanding and lay the foundation for countries and armed forces to work together in response to any future crisis.
Recounting Singapore's experience in the SARS outbreak in 2003 and the Singapore armed forces' response to the Tsunami disaster in 2004, Teo emphasized that close cooperation between medical and health agencies domestically as well as externally was critical in carrying out relief operations effectively.
The theme for this year's conference, "Learning from the Past, Transforming Medical Teams for the Future", aims to explore the challenges, as well as current and emerging threats faced by military medicine professionals.
A wide range of topics will be discussed over the five-day meeting, including combat medicine and trauma, environmental and preventive medicine, and aviation medicine.
The 18th Asia-Pacific Military Medicine Conference was co-hosted by the Singapore Armed Forces and the United States Army Pacific Command. Over 600 military medical professionals from morethan 30 countries and regions were attending the conference.
In his speech, Singapore's Defense Minister Teo Chee Hean highlighted the importance of the conference in helping to build understanding and lay the foundation for countries and armed forces to work together in response to any future crisis.
Recounting Singapore's experience in the SARS outbreak in 2003 and the Singapore armed forces' response to the Tsunami disaster in 2004, Teo emphasized that close cooperation between medical and health agencies domestically as well as externally was critical in carrying out relief operations effectively.
The theme for this year's conference, "Learning from the Past, Transforming Medical Teams for the Future", aims to explore the challenges, as well as current and emerging threats faced by military medicine professionals.
A wide range of topics will be discussed over the five-day meeting, including combat medicine and trauma, environmental and preventive medicine, and aviation medicine.
Singapore laptop maker Axioo enters RP market
SEAGATE and Creative are the only two Singaporean IT brands that have name recall in the Philippines. However, an upstart firm wants to join its Singaporean brethren.
Axioo International is the latest OEM (original equipment manufacturer) notebook to enter the somewhat saturated laptop market. Nevertheless, the company is confident that there is a market for their product in Asia, including the Philippines.
Here's a video interview I conducted with Axioo International managing director Stephen Lim, who talks about the Singapore-based company's decision to launch its laptops in the Philippines. In the Philippines, the company recently introduced their Zetta series; the mid-level Zetta TEN and the high-performance Zetta TEC. The former uses Pentium a Dual Core processor, an Intel GMA X3100 graphics card, 1 Gigabyte of memory, 120 Gb of hard disk space, integrated Wifi antenna and an optional Bluetooth receiver.
Meanwhile, the Zetta TEC is powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 2Gb of memory, GMA X3100 integrated graphics, 160Gb of hard disk space, integrated wifi and Bluetooth.
Although the two models have different specifications, they are also the same size with 13.3-inch LCD screen. They also come in at least four colors (red, black, pink and green) though there were also some models that came in white, blue and yellow.
Apart from the Zetta Ten and Tec models, the company will also be introducing its own version of the Classmate PC, which sports very basic parts, a 7-inch monitor and uses Linux with a graphical user interface.
In the interview, Lim said the company's products are aimed at students, small-office-home office and small business markets that are looking for alternative laptop brands.
"We don't want to claim that we're targeting the same market as the more established brands but since we've only started we're aiming for brand recall," Lim said.
Axioo only started manufacturing notebooks this year and has a plant in Singapore. The company also only recently started showcasing their products in Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines.
Lim has not provided pricing for their products in the Philippines yet but said that these will be competitively priced with current local brands.
Axioo will be distributed in the Philippines by Millennium Computers Technology.
Axioo International is the latest OEM (original equipment manufacturer) notebook to enter the somewhat saturated laptop market. Nevertheless, the company is confident that there is a market for their product in Asia, including the Philippines.
Here's a video interview I conducted with Axioo International managing director Stephen Lim, who talks about the Singapore-based company's decision to launch its laptops in the Philippines. In the Philippines, the company recently introduced their Zetta series; the mid-level Zetta TEN and the high-performance Zetta TEC. The former uses Pentium a Dual Core processor, an Intel GMA X3100 graphics card, 1 Gigabyte of memory, 120 Gb of hard disk space, integrated Wifi antenna and an optional Bluetooth receiver.
Meanwhile, the Zetta TEC is powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 2Gb of memory, GMA X3100 integrated graphics, 160Gb of hard disk space, integrated wifi and Bluetooth.
Although the two models have different specifications, they are also the same size with 13.3-inch LCD screen. They also come in at least four colors (red, black, pink and green) though there were also some models that came in white, blue and yellow.
Apart from the Zetta Ten and Tec models, the company will also be introducing its own version of the Classmate PC, which sports very basic parts, a 7-inch monitor and uses Linux with a graphical user interface.
In the interview, Lim said the company's products are aimed at students, small-office-home office and small business markets that are looking for alternative laptop brands.
"We don't want to claim that we're targeting the same market as the more established brands but since we've only started we're aiming for brand recall," Lim said.
Axioo only started manufacturing notebooks this year and has a plant in Singapore. The company also only recently started showcasing their products in Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines.
Lim has not provided pricing for their products in the Philippines yet but said that these will be competitively priced with current local brands.
Axioo will be distributed in the Philippines by Millennium Computers Technology.
Monday, October 27, 2008
'Slingshot' wins at Singapore fest
"Slingshot," a gritty film about the poverty and desperation of a Manila squatter slum by Filipino director Brillante Mendoza, dominated the 21st Singapore International Film Festival's Silver Screen Awards on Sunday.
It walked away with the top prize in the Asian Feature Film category, best director and the Netpac (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) Award.
Boo Junfeng, a film student at the Puttman School of Film at Lasalle College of the Arts, also took home three awards in the Singapore Short Film category for "Keluar Baris" (Malay for "fall out"). The 16-minute film about an 18-year-old Singaporean who is enlisted in the army just days after returning from his studies in Europe, won best film, best director and best cinematography for Sharon Loh.
Other SIFF winners in the Asian Feature Film Category were "Out of Coverage," a comedy from Syrian director Abdellatif Abdelhamid, which received the special jury award, and actress Inessa Kislova for her performance in Kazak director Abai Kublai's coming-of-age film "Swift."
In the Singapore Short Film category, Michael Tay won for "Wet Seasons" (special jury prize), Muhammad Eysham Ali for "My Home, My Heaven" (special achievement award) and Magdalene Tan for best performance "Silent Girls."
It walked away with the top prize in the Asian Feature Film category, best director and the Netpac (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) Award.
Boo Junfeng, a film student at the Puttman School of Film at Lasalle College of the Arts, also took home three awards in the Singapore Short Film category for "Keluar Baris" (Malay for "fall out"). The 16-minute film about an 18-year-old Singaporean who is enlisted in the army just days after returning from his studies in Europe, won best film, best director and best cinematography for Sharon Loh.
Other SIFF winners in the Asian Feature Film Category were "Out of Coverage," a comedy from Syrian director Abdellatif Abdelhamid, which received the special jury award, and actress Inessa Kislova for her performance in Kazak director Abai Kublai's coming-of-age film "Swift."
In the Singapore Short Film category, Michael Tay won for "Wet Seasons" (special jury prize), Muhammad Eysham Ali for "My Home, My Heaven" (special achievement award) and Magdalene Tan for best performance "Silent Girls."
Singaporeans don't attach much importance to EU ties
The average Singaporean does not attach much importance to ties with the European Union even though the EU is the city-state's second-largest trading partner following Malaysia, a published survey said on Saturday. The group of 27 European countries is viewed mainly as an economic bloc and less as a political power.
The findings reported in The Straits Times are included in a new book on the EU's image by the Asia-Europe Foundation and the National University of Singapore's European studies programme.
The 400 Singaporeans surveyed ranked the EU sixth on a list of important partners, behind China, the United States, Asia, Japan and India.
Only 1 per cent of the respondents saw the EU as a model for the 10-member Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The EU "is often considered a distant 'other,'" the newspaper quoted Barnard Turner of the university's European studies as saying. The United States has the greatest influence and clout in global relations, he said, and Asia in trade.
In contrast survey respondents in China ranked the EU as second on their list of key partner countries following the United States.
The survey suggested the legacy of colonialism as a reason for the EU's lack of visibility in Singapore.
The findings reported in The Straits Times are included in a new book on the EU's image by the Asia-Europe Foundation and the National University of Singapore's European studies programme.
The 400 Singaporeans surveyed ranked the EU sixth on a list of important partners, behind China, the United States, Asia, Japan and India.
Only 1 per cent of the respondents saw the EU as a model for the 10-member Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
The EU "is often considered a distant 'other,'" the newspaper quoted Barnard Turner of the university's European studies as saying. The United States has the greatest influence and clout in global relations, he said, and Asia in trade.
In contrast survey respondents in China ranked the EU as second on their list of key partner countries following the United States.
The survey suggested the legacy of colonialism as a reason for the EU's lack of visibility in Singapore.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Singapore police fed up with hoax calls to hotline
Fed up with hoax calls to the 999 hotline, police in Singapore are putting up posters in English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil warning against the offence, officials said on Thursday.
Prank calls number about two every minute in Singapore.
Those who call emergency numbers intending to harass can face up to a year's jail or a fine, or both, police said.
Nearly 1.05 million of the 1.62 million calls made to police last year were hoaxes. Based on 2005 figures, one in five of such calls were made by children.
The posters, to be put up in primary schools and preschools and displayed at events, depict designs warning against prank calls such as a friend warning a boy who is dialing the hotline.
Prank calls number about two every minute in Singapore.
Those who call emergency numbers intending to harass can face up to a year's jail or a fine, or both, police said.
Nearly 1.05 million of the 1.62 million calls made to police last year were hoaxes. Based on 2005 figures, one in five of such calls were made by children.
The posters, to be put up in primary schools and preschools and displayed at events, depict designs warning against prank calls such as a friend warning a boy who is dialing the hotline.
Singapore government, ADB push for regional water infrastructure development
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and a Singapore government body, Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE), are aiming to foster cooperation between the public and private sectors to meet Asia's infrastructure needs, particularly in the water sector, the ADB and SCE said Tuesday.
They launched Tuesday Asia Infrastructure Project Development Pte. Ltd. (AIPD), which is expected to facilitate investment in the region's infrastructure development.
'In terms of business opportunities, the AIPD is expected to generate $150 million worth of public-private partnership projects for private companies annually, including Singapore and other international water companies,' said Lim Hwee Hua, Singapore's senior minister of state for finance and transport.
The initiative is timely, given the huge demand for urban infrastructure investment in Asia, Lim said in a speech at the launching of AIPD.
'The initial focus on water and environmental managements fits very well with what Singapore can offer,' Lim said. In Singapore all waste water is collected and treated to produce clean water, he said.
AIPD will initially focus on China, where the Kunming and Harbin municipal governments have agreed to let it assist in waste water collection and treatment projects, water recycling, sludge treatment and solid waste management, said Lim.
China needs about $140 billion in new investment in water and waste water treatment plants and water recycling facilities to hit its target of extending the water supply to 95 percent of the population and waste water treatment services to 70 percent of the population by 2010, the ADB said. Currently only about 40 percent of urban waste water in China is treated and the rest is discharged into rivers, lakes or the sea.
'AIPD will be an innovative one-stop shop that provides the necessary resources and expertise to identify and develop projects from the time they are being drawn up until they are completed and are being considered for public-private partnership undertakings,' said Seethapathy Chander, deputy director-general for private-sector operations at the ADB.
The ADB is investing $4 million in a 40 percent stake in AIPD and three Singapore companies -- United Engineers Singapore Pte. Ltd., Konzen Environment Pte. Ltd. and Crest Spring Pte. Ltd. -- are also investing in the venture, the ADB said.
They launched Tuesday Asia Infrastructure Project Development Pte. Ltd. (AIPD), which is expected to facilitate investment in the region's infrastructure development.
'In terms of business opportunities, the AIPD is expected to generate $150 million worth of public-private partnership projects for private companies annually, including Singapore and other international water companies,' said Lim Hwee Hua, Singapore's senior minister of state for finance and transport.
The initiative is timely, given the huge demand for urban infrastructure investment in Asia, Lim said in a speech at the launching of AIPD.
'The initial focus on water and environmental managements fits very well with what Singapore can offer,' Lim said. In Singapore all waste water is collected and treated to produce clean water, he said.
AIPD will initially focus on China, where the Kunming and Harbin municipal governments have agreed to let it assist in waste water collection and treatment projects, water recycling, sludge treatment and solid waste management, said Lim.
China needs about $140 billion in new investment in water and waste water treatment plants and water recycling facilities to hit its target of extending the water supply to 95 percent of the population and waste water treatment services to 70 percent of the population by 2010, the ADB said. Currently only about 40 percent of urban waste water in China is treated and the rest is discharged into rivers, lakes or the sea.
'AIPD will be an innovative one-stop shop that provides the necessary resources and expertise to identify and develop projects from the time they are being drawn up until they are completed and are being considered for public-private partnership undertakings,' said Seethapathy Chander, deputy director-general for private-sector operations at the ADB.
The ADB is investing $4 million in a 40 percent stake in AIPD and three Singapore companies -- United Engineers Singapore Pte. Ltd., Konzen Environment Pte. Ltd. and Crest Spring Pte. Ltd. -- are also investing in the venture, the ADB said.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Singapore Airlines To Begin Operations At Shanghai Pudong International Airport's Terminal 2
Singapore Airlines flights will operate from Shanghai Pudong International Airport's new Terminal 2 with effect from 29 April 2008.
The first flights in and out of the new terminal 2 will be SQ816 into Shanghai from Singapore at 0635hrs and SQ815 departing Shanghai for Singapore at 0805hrs.
Singapore Airlines General Manager China, Ho Yik Wing says: "Singapore Airlines is pleased to be operating from the new Shanghai Pudong International Airport Terminal 2 which has advanced facilities and modern design."
Customers can proceed to Area C for check-In on Singapore Airlines flights. Counters open 2.5 hours, and close 40 minutes before flight departure. Customers are advised to check-in early, preferably 2 hours before flight departure, to avoid congestion.
The first flights in and out of the new terminal 2 will be SQ816 into Shanghai from Singapore at 0635hrs and SQ815 departing Shanghai for Singapore at 0805hrs.
Singapore Airlines General Manager China, Ho Yik Wing says: "Singapore Airlines is pleased to be operating from the new Shanghai Pudong International Airport Terminal 2 which has advanced facilities and modern design."
Customers can proceed to Area C for check-In on Singapore Airlines flights. Counters open 2.5 hours, and close 40 minutes before flight departure. Customers are advised to check-in early, preferably 2 hours before flight departure, to avoid congestion.
Burmese Embassy in Singapore Prepares for Absentee Referendum Voting
The Burmese Embassy in Singapore has sent a letter to Burmese citizens urging them to vote absentee in the constitutional referendum from April 25 to 29, while an anonymous telephone message is urging people to vote "No."
"We the Burmese people can vote "No" at the Myanmar [Burma] embassy…. Please pass this message to all your friends and take this exercise seriously for our freedom," says the telephone message, which is being widely distributed in the Burmese community.
The embassy letter sent to Burmese citizens was dated April 10, urging them to bring their Burmese passport or citizen documents as identification. An estimated 50,000 Burmese citizens live in Singapore.
"The letter was signed by Kyaw Swe Tint, the Burmese counselor," said a Burmese man from Tuas South on the outskirts of Singapore, who received a letter on Thursday.
He said the letter was sent by air mail to Burmese citizens who paid their income tax at the embassy.
Ko Hla, an information technology engineer in Singapore, said Burmese citizens are likely to vote "No" on the referendum or to not vote.
"I haven't heard of anyone who will give a 'Yes' vote," Ko Hla told The Irrawaddy on Thursday.
"As a Burmese citizen, the constitutional referendum is important for me to vote," said Myo Htet a construction engineer in Singapore. "Even the people inside Burma will vote 'No.' Why can't I vote 'No' too?"
A worker at a Singapore shipping yard said he will not go to the embassy to vote.
"I get no leave from my boss, so I can't," he said.
Meanwhile, the Burmese Embassy in the United States of America is collecting names of people eligible to vote based on an income tax list.
Millions of migrants live outside of Burma, but the Burmese regime has not yet announced whether they all will be allowed to vote in the referendum. More than one million Burmese migrants live in Thailand.
"We the Burmese people can vote "No" at the Myanmar [Burma] embassy…. Please pass this message to all your friends and take this exercise seriously for our freedom," says the telephone message, which is being widely distributed in the Burmese community.
The embassy letter sent to Burmese citizens was dated April 10, urging them to bring their Burmese passport or citizen documents as identification. An estimated 50,000 Burmese citizens live in Singapore.
"The letter was signed by Kyaw Swe Tint, the Burmese counselor," said a Burmese man from Tuas South on the outskirts of Singapore, who received a letter on Thursday.
He said the letter was sent by air mail to Burmese citizens who paid their income tax at the embassy.
Ko Hla, an information technology engineer in Singapore, said Burmese citizens are likely to vote "No" on the referendum or to not vote.
"I haven't heard of anyone who will give a 'Yes' vote," Ko Hla told The Irrawaddy on Thursday.
"As a Burmese citizen, the constitutional referendum is important for me to vote," said Myo Htet a construction engineer in Singapore. "Even the people inside Burma will vote 'No.' Why can't I vote 'No' too?"
A worker at a Singapore shipping yard said he will not go to the embassy to vote.
"I get no leave from my boss, so I can't," he said.
Meanwhile, the Burmese Embassy in the United States of America is collecting names of people eligible to vote based on an income tax list.
Millions of migrants live outside of Burma, but the Burmese regime has not yet announced whether they all will be allowed to vote in the referendum. More than one million Burmese migrants live in Thailand.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Singapore’s GIC may pump more cash into UBS
The Government of Singapore Investment Corp (GIC) is considering injecting more cash into Swiss banking giant UBS AG, the Wall Street Journal reported yesterday.
The Singapore sovereign wealth fund was considering taking part in the 15 billion Swiss franc (US$15bil) rights issue UBS announced early in April, the report said.
UBS said earlier this month it would seek new cash to improve its capital position. UBS said it expected to have lost US$12.1bil in the first quarter, including a US$19bil writedown tied to deterioration in the mortgage markets.
The writedowns at UBS for the past nine months total US$37.4bil – so far the largest reported by any bank with exposure to US defaults on risky mortgages.
GIC bought a 9% stake in UBS for US$11bil in December.
The Journal quoted a source as saying GIC would make a final decision after UBS provides the terms on any capital increase. GIC would likely have to decide whether to pump in more cash just to keep its stake at 9% or whether to buy a bigger stake, the source said.
The UBS plan to raise more capital was subject to approval at its annual meeting on April 23, the report said.
The Journal said the capital increase plan was underwritten by a syndicate of banks led by JPMorgan Chase & Co, Morgan Stanley, BNP Paribas and Goldman Sachs Group Inc.
The Singapore sovereign wealth fund was considering taking part in the 15 billion Swiss franc (US$15bil) rights issue UBS announced early in April, the report said.
UBS said earlier this month it would seek new cash to improve its capital position. UBS said it expected to have lost US$12.1bil in the first quarter, including a US$19bil writedown tied to deterioration in the mortgage markets.
The writedowns at UBS for the past nine months total US$37.4bil – so far the largest reported by any bank with exposure to US defaults on risky mortgages.
GIC bought a 9% stake in UBS for US$11bil in December.
The Journal quoted a source as saying GIC would make a final decision after UBS provides the terms on any capital increase. GIC would likely have to decide whether to pump in more cash just to keep its stake at 9% or whether to buy a bigger stake, the source said.
The UBS plan to raise more capital was subject to approval at its annual meeting on April 23, the report said.
The Journal said the capital increase plan was underwritten by a syndicate of banks led by JPMorgan Chase & Co, Morgan Stanley, BNP Paribas and Goldman Sachs Group Inc.
Singapore’s S$70m Masterplan to boost infocomm security
Over the next five years, Singapore's people, public and private sectors will work more closely to ward off emerging cyber threats, under a new strategy.
The Singapore government announced this today, launching a new S$70 million Infocomm Security Masterplan 2 (MP2).
The MP2 follows the first Infocomm Security Masterplan which was launched in 2005 as a strategic roadmap to develop capabilities to prevent cyber security incidents.
"While the first Masterplan1 aimed largely at providing the public sector with measures to counter infocomm security threats, the second Masterplan will expand on that and engage both the public and private sectors even more deeply in securing Singapore's cyber space," said Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports at the annual Infocomm Security Seminar.
The Singapore government announced this today, launching a new S$70 million Infocomm Security Masterplan 2 (MP2).
The MP2 follows the first Infocomm Security Masterplan which was launched in 2005 as a strategic roadmap to develop capabilities to prevent cyber security incidents.
"While the first Masterplan1 aimed largely at providing the public sector with measures to counter infocomm security threats, the second Masterplan will expand on that and engage both the public and private sectors even more deeply in securing Singapore's cyber space," said Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports at the annual Infocomm Security Seminar.
Monday, September 29, 2008
China stocks in Singapore close slightly higher; key data holds down shares
China stocks in Singapore ended the day slightly higher as new economic data out of the mainland held down shares with monetary tightening fears mounting, dealers said.
The FTSE ST China Index rose 2.38 points or 0.5 pct to 451.91 points, according to preliminary closing figures. Gainers outnumbered losers 18 to 17 with 15 unchanged.
The broader Straits Times Index rose 1 pct or 31.0 points to close at 3,087.49
China said today its economy grew 10.6 pct from a year earlier in the three months to March, slower than the 11.9 pct growth in 2007.
And inflation remained high with the consumer price index hitting 8.0 pct for the first quarter, driven by a 21 pct rise in food prices. March inflation stood at 8.3 pct, down from 8.7 pct in February but well above the government's full-year target. Many analysts had been expecting the high figures.
A mainland official said today the government's top priority will be to control prices, raising the possibility of further monetary tightening measures.
The FTSE ST China Index rose 2.38 points or 0.5 pct to 451.91 points, according to preliminary closing figures. Gainers outnumbered losers 18 to 17 with 15 unchanged.
The broader Straits Times Index rose 1 pct or 31.0 points to close at 3,087.49
China said today its economy grew 10.6 pct from a year earlier in the three months to March, slower than the 11.9 pct growth in 2007.
And inflation remained high with the consumer price index hitting 8.0 pct for the first quarter, driven by a 21 pct rise in food prices. March inflation stood at 8.3 pct, down from 8.7 pct in February but well above the government's full-year target. Many analysts had been expecting the high figures.
A mainland official said today the government's top priority will be to control prices, raising the possibility of further monetary tightening measures.
Singapore. Asia Dive Expo sets standards in conservation awareness
Asia Dive Expo 2008 (ADEX) opens today at Suntec Singapore with a bold new agenda for the regional dive community – "Save The Seas, Be A Diver". ADEX this year focus on the need for greater awareness of marine conservation as it runs from 18-20 April 2008 at Halls 602 and 603. ADEX 2008 is opened today by Mr. Francis Lee, Chairman of Marine Roundtable Singapore Chapter.
This year has particular significance for the marine conservation movement. 2008 has been designated the International Year of the Reef (IYOR), a worldwide initiative to raise awareness of the value and importance of coral reefs. Singapore will be joining 50 countries around the world to improve understanding of the threats to these endangered reefs.
ADEX 2008 will welcome the presence and input of top international marine conservationists such as Richard Leck from the World Wildlife Fund's Coral Triangle Program, Christine Ward-Paige from Global Shark Awareness and Julian Hyde from Reef Check.
Said Herman Ho, Managing Director of ADEX organiser TMX Show Productions Pte Ltd, "The main attraction of ADEX this year is EcoVillage @ ADEX 2008, where a combination of exciting activities including seminars, film fests, photography competitions, educational tours, ADEX auctions and ADEX merchandise.
"The activities in EcoVillage @ ADEX are designed to foster a sense of environmentalism as a way of life amongst both adults and students. All proceeds from ADEX merchandise will be donated to a major marine conservation cause, the International Year of the Reef 2008." Herman added.
ADEX visitors can learn all about regional and even local marine conservation initiatives such as the Coral Nursery, a project launched to preserve and proliferate natural corals by The National Parks Board (NParks) and its partners Keppel Group, National University of Singapore and National Environment Agency.
Additionally, ADEX has lined up an exciting program of screenings, presentations, talks, seminars and activities which will educate and entertain on an array of dive-related subjects. Many of the films being screened earned plaudits at the Celebrate the Sea Festival, which awards the best of the dive industry's vibrant underwater film-makers.
"In line with ADEX's conservation theme this year, many of our presentations and screenings reflect an environmental consciousness and an awareness of the delicate nature of our planet's marine eco-systems," said Mr. Ho.
Aside from the educational aspects, as always at ADEX there will also be a generous number of prizes, giveaways, dollar deals and fun activities like the Scuba Tryouts where potential divers can learn the basics in a safe environment.
ADEX 2008 sees the return of regular major name exhibitors including Bauer Compressors Asia Pte Ltd., Beuchat International SA, and Coltri Sub Asia Pacific. They are joined this year by new names like Dive Junkie, EKO Asia Pacific, Innerspace Dive Explorers and OPTIMUS.
Amongst those destinations touting their pristine azure waters will be Christmas Island Tourism Association, Philippines Tourism Board, Santika – Thalassa Dive Resort, Minahasa Lagoon, Redang Kalong Resort and Walea Dive Resort.
Supporting ADEX again this year are leading dive and conservation related associations and organisations including the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association (DEMA), the British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC), Divers Alert Network (DAN), the International Association of Nitrox and Technical Divers (IANTD), Scuba Schools International (SSI), the Singapore Underwater Federation (SUF) and the Singapore Environment Council (SEC).
This year has particular significance for the marine conservation movement. 2008 has been designated the International Year of the Reef (IYOR), a worldwide initiative to raise awareness of the value and importance of coral reefs. Singapore will be joining 50 countries around the world to improve understanding of the threats to these endangered reefs.
ADEX 2008 will welcome the presence and input of top international marine conservationists such as Richard Leck from the World Wildlife Fund's Coral Triangle Program, Christine Ward-Paige from Global Shark Awareness and Julian Hyde from Reef Check.
Said Herman Ho, Managing Director of ADEX organiser TMX Show Productions Pte Ltd, "The main attraction of ADEX this year is EcoVillage @ ADEX 2008, where a combination of exciting activities including seminars, film fests, photography competitions, educational tours, ADEX auctions and ADEX merchandise.
"The activities in EcoVillage @ ADEX are designed to foster a sense of environmentalism as a way of life amongst both adults and students. All proceeds from ADEX merchandise will be donated to a major marine conservation cause, the International Year of the Reef 2008." Herman added.
ADEX visitors can learn all about regional and even local marine conservation initiatives such as the Coral Nursery, a project launched to preserve and proliferate natural corals by The National Parks Board (NParks) and its partners Keppel Group, National University of Singapore and National Environment Agency.
Additionally, ADEX has lined up an exciting program of screenings, presentations, talks, seminars and activities which will educate and entertain on an array of dive-related subjects. Many of the films being screened earned plaudits at the Celebrate the Sea Festival, which awards the best of the dive industry's vibrant underwater film-makers.
"In line with ADEX's conservation theme this year, many of our presentations and screenings reflect an environmental consciousness and an awareness of the delicate nature of our planet's marine eco-systems," said Mr. Ho.
Aside from the educational aspects, as always at ADEX there will also be a generous number of prizes, giveaways, dollar deals and fun activities like the Scuba Tryouts where potential divers can learn the basics in a safe environment.
ADEX 2008 sees the return of regular major name exhibitors including Bauer Compressors Asia Pte Ltd., Beuchat International SA, and Coltri Sub Asia Pacific. They are joined this year by new names like Dive Junkie, EKO Asia Pacific, Innerspace Dive Explorers and OPTIMUS.
Amongst those destinations touting their pristine azure waters will be Christmas Island Tourism Association, Philippines Tourism Board, Santika – Thalassa Dive Resort, Minahasa Lagoon, Redang Kalong Resort and Walea Dive Resort.
Supporting ADEX again this year are leading dive and conservation related associations and organisations including the Diving Equipment & Marketing Association (DEMA), the British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC), Divers Alert Network (DAN), the International Association of Nitrox and Technical Divers (IANTD), Scuba Schools International (SSI), the Singapore Underwater Federation (SUF) and the Singapore Environment Council (SEC).
Monday, September 22, 2008
Zuhrah’s boost for Singapore
Eight-year-old Zuhrah Akbar, a former student of Methodist College Colpetty Colombo, and now attending Eunos Primary in Singapore has written a brief article on Singapore's successful bid to stage the Youth Olympics in 2010, in Singapore's leading newspaper for students: 'What's Up.
Her article goes on to say: I was overjoyed to hear that Singapore has won the bid to host the Youth Olympics, A lot of people from different countries will come to Singapore to witness the event. I too can go to the Stadium to watch all the events. I am sure it will be an exciting event.
Zuhrah took an active interest in sports at Methodist College Colombo and was a keen member of the school's drama activities. Her pet subject is English. Her teacher at Methodist was Miss Dedunu Mendis.
Her article goes on to say: I was overjoyed to hear that Singapore has won the bid to host the Youth Olympics, A lot of people from different countries will come to Singapore to witness the event. I too can go to the Stadium to watch all the events. I am sure it will be an exciting event.
Zuhrah took an active interest in sports at Methodist College Colombo and was a keen member of the school's drama activities. Her pet subject is English. Her teacher at Methodist was Miss Dedunu Mendis.
China, Indonesia, Singapore, S. Korea: Asia Local Bond Preview
The following events and economic reports may influence trading in Asian local-currency bonds today. Yields are from the previous session.
China: The central bank yesterday ordered commercial banks to set aside more reserves for the third time this year. Gross domestic product rose 10.6 percent in the three months to March 31 from a year earlier and consumer prices climbed 8.3 percent in March, close to the fastest pace in 11 years, the statistics bureau said yesterday.
The finance ministry will sell 28 billion yuan ($4 billion) in five-year bonds tomorrow. The Agricultural Development Bank of China will auction tomorrow 10 billion yuan of debt maturing in seven years.
The yield on the 4.07 percent bond due March 2018 fell 2.3 basis points to 4 percent, according to China Interbank Bond Market. A basis point is 0.01 percentage point.
India: Annual inflation slowed to 7.23 percent in the week ended April 5, from 7.41 percent in the previous week, economists said before a report today at noon.
The yield on the 7.99 percent bond due July 2017 rose 7 basis points to 8.08 percent, according to the central bank's trading system.
Indonesia: Money supply growth data for February are due as early as today.
The yield on the 9 percent bond due September 2018 slid 10 basis points to 11.95 percent, according to the Inter Dealer Market Association.
Malaysia: The government will sell 100 million ringgit ($31.7 million) of six-month bills and 80 million ringgit of three-month bills today. The securities yielded 3.436 percent and 3.457 percent respectively at the previous sales on April 3.
The yield on the 4.24 percent bond due February 2018 jumped 2 basis points to 3.79 percent, according to the central bank.
Philippines: The nation had a balance of payments surplus of $1.7 billion in the first quarter, boosted by remittances, exports and overseas investment, the central bank said yesterday.
The yield on the 5 7/8 percent note due January 2018 climbed 13 basis points to 7.61 percent, according to the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp.
Singapore: Non-oil domestic exports grew 0.4 percent in March from a year earlier, following a 7.3 percent gain in February, economists said before a government report today.
The yield on the 3 3/4 percent bond maturing September 2016 increased 4 basis points to 2.345 percent, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
South Korea: The jobless rate rose in March as builders and manufacturers shed workers. Unemployment edged up to 3.1 percent from 3 percent in February, the statistics office said yesterday.
The yield on the 5 1/4 bond due March 2013 was unchanged at 4.98 percent, according to Korea Securities Dealers Association.
Sri Lanka: The central bank will today report February trade data. It offered to add as much as 2.5 billion rupees ($23 million) to the banking system yesterday by buying government bonds at the reverse-repurchase rate of 12 percent.
The yield on the 7.5 percent bond due March 2009 fell 5 basis points to 18.5 percent, according to People's Bank.
Taiwan: The benchmark Taiex stock index gained the most in almost a week yesterday.
The yield on the 2 3/8 percent bond maturing in March 2018 climbed 1.7 basis points to 2.47 percent, according to Gretai Securities Market.
Thailand: The central bank will sell 70 billion baht ($2.2 billion) of 14-day bills tomorrow. Household debt rose 70 percent in the past seven years as low interest rates encouraged borrowing, the Nation reported, citing Anuk Serechetapongse, an economist with the central bank.
The yield on the 5 1/8 percent bond maturing March 2018 jumped 5 basis points to 4.49 percent, according to the Thai Bond Market Association.
China: The central bank yesterday ordered commercial banks to set aside more reserves for the third time this year. Gross domestic product rose 10.6 percent in the three months to March 31 from a year earlier and consumer prices climbed 8.3 percent in March, close to the fastest pace in 11 years, the statistics bureau said yesterday.
The finance ministry will sell 28 billion yuan ($4 billion) in five-year bonds tomorrow. The Agricultural Development Bank of China will auction tomorrow 10 billion yuan of debt maturing in seven years.
The yield on the 4.07 percent bond due March 2018 fell 2.3 basis points to 4 percent, according to China Interbank Bond Market. A basis point is 0.01 percentage point.
India: Annual inflation slowed to 7.23 percent in the week ended April 5, from 7.41 percent in the previous week, economists said before a report today at noon.
The yield on the 7.99 percent bond due July 2017 rose 7 basis points to 8.08 percent, according to the central bank's trading system.
Indonesia: Money supply growth data for February are due as early as today.
The yield on the 9 percent bond due September 2018 slid 10 basis points to 11.95 percent, according to the Inter Dealer Market Association.
Malaysia: The government will sell 100 million ringgit ($31.7 million) of six-month bills and 80 million ringgit of three-month bills today. The securities yielded 3.436 percent and 3.457 percent respectively at the previous sales on April 3.
The yield on the 4.24 percent bond due February 2018 jumped 2 basis points to 3.79 percent, according to the central bank.
Philippines: The nation had a balance of payments surplus of $1.7 billion in the first quarter, boosted by remittances, exports and overseas investment, the central bank said yesterday.
The yield on the 5 7/8 percent note due January 2018 climbed 13 basis points to 7.61 percent, according to the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp.
Singapore: Non-oil domestic exports grew 0.4 percent in March from a year earlier, following a 7.3 percent gain in February, economists said before a government report today.
The yield on the 3 3/4 percent bond maturing September 2016 increased 4 basis points to 2.345 percent, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
South Korea: The jobless rate rose in March as builders and manufacturers shed workers. Unemployment edged up to 3.1 percent from 3 percent in February, the statistics office said yesterday.
The yield on the 5 1/4 bond due March 2013 was unchanged at 4.98 percent, according to Korea Securities Dealers Association.
Sri Lanka: The central bank will today report February trade data. It offered to add as much as 2.5 billion rupees ($23 million) to the banking system yesterday by buying government bonds at the reverse-repurchase rate of 12 percent.
The yield on the 7.5 percent bond due March 2009 fell 5 basis points to 18.5 percent, according to People's Bank.
Taiwan: The benchmark Taiex stock index gained the most in almost a week yesterday.
The yield on the 2 3/8 percent bond maturing in March 2018 climbed 1.7 basis points to 2.47 percent, according to Gretai Securities Market.
Thailand: The central bank will sell 70 billion baht ($2.2 billion) of 14-day bills tomorrow. Household debt rose 70 percent in the past seven years as low interest rates encouraged borrowing, the Nation reported, citing Anuk Serechetapongse, an economist with the central bank.
The yield on the 5 1/8 percent bond maturing March 2018 jumped 5 basis points to 4.49 percent, according to the Thai Bond Market Association.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Singapore, Malaysia & China dominate Cityscape Asia Awards
Singapore, Malaysia & China dominate Cityscape Asia Awards
Real estate awards now look forward to Abu Dhabi - 'a future model of sustainable development'
The significant progress made by Asia's real estate sector over the past year was celebrated last night at the inaugural Cityscape Asia Real Estate Awards, marked with an elaborate gala dinner attended by over 300 industry professionals at Singapore's Pan Pacific hotel. The Awards an adjunct to the Cityscape Asia real estate exhibition and conference recognised winners in 12 separate categories spanning Corporate Social Responsibility, Urban design and master-planning through to the best developments in Waterfront, Retail, Commercial, Residential, and Mixed Use Project (with a Built and Future award in each category).
Projects from Singapore, Malaysia and China were dominant picking up four awards each in a clean sweep for the region's developers.
Singapore's Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) collected the Award for Best Urban Design and Master-planning for its work on the Bras Basah.Bugis Arts, Culture Learning and Entertainment District, while local developers to chime in included Capital Land Commercial Ltd (Built Waterfront Development: Clarke Quay), City Developments Limited (Future Retail: City Square Mall) and UOL Group (Built Residential for Newton Suites).
Winning projects from Malaysia included ZLG SDN BHD for the BOH Visitor Centre in the Cameron Highlands (Corporate Social Responsibility), Kesas Kenangan Sdn Bhd for Setia Eco Gardens in Johor Bahru (Built Commercial), TTDI Harta SDN BHD for the Laman Seri Business Park in Shah Alam and Bandaraya Developments Berhad for The Troika in Kuala Lumpur.
The People's Republic of China also made a strong showing with the Xiang Shan International Yacht Club's, Deep Blue Marina in Xiamen being selected as the best Future Waterfront Development while Financial Street Holding Co. Ltd's was recognised with the Award for the best Built Retail for Seasons Place in Beijing. China also made a clean sweep in the Mixed Use category with Chongbang Group receiving the plaudit for its already built Life Hub @ Daning in the Zhabei District of Shanghai, while Capital Land (China Investment Company Ltd), scored with Raffles City at 1 Dongzhimen Nan Da Jie in Beijing.
Graham Wood, Exhibition Director of Cityscape Asia said the strength of the winning projects reflected the 'overwhelming progress in Asia's real estate sector over the past year.'
"Regional development has matured significantly, which is reflected not only in the quality but also their social & environmental impact. Sustainability is now a key issue for many of the leading developers and it is appropriate that the next Cityscape event will take place in Abu Dhabi, a future model of sustainable development," commented Wood.
A panel of international judges rated each project on its contribution to world architecture, culture, invention and imagination, respect for the people and environmental awareness and appropriateness in the emerging and recently developing countries in the Asian region.
Cityscape Asia 2008 runs until 17 April 2008 in Singapore's Suntec Exhibition and Conference Centre. The event is showcasing iconic architecture and property investment opportunities throughout the region and beyond to an audience of regional and international investors, real estate developers, architects and designers, governments and senior professionals.
This year Cityscape Asia features 114 exhibitors from 17 countries, including a strong showing from UAE major developers Limitless and Union Properties. In total 6,000 real estate professionals are expected to participate in the three-day event.
Cityscape Asia also hosts the International Property Investment and Development Conference with more than 50 speakers including CEOs, managing directors and government officials examining the opportunities in Asia including real estate investment trusts, derivatives and an Asian investment property databank. Key UAE-based speakers include, Philip Atkinson, Regional Director of Limitless, Binod Shankar, Director of finance at Meraas and John Thomas, Associate Director of Mubadala Development
Real estate awards now look forward to Abu Dhabi - 'a future model of sustainable development'
The significant progress made by Asia's real estate sector over the past year was celebrated last night at the inaugural Cityscape Asia Real Estate Awards, marked with an elaborate gala dinner attended by over 300 industry professionals at Singapore's Pan Pacific hotel. The Awards an adjunct to the Cityscape Asia real estate exhibition and conference recognised winners in 12 separate categories spanning Corporate Social Responsibility, Urban design and master-planning through to the best developments in Waterfront, Retail, Commercial, Residential, and Mixed Use Project (with a Built and Future award in each category).
Projects from Singapore, Malaysia and China were dominant picking up four awards each in a clean sweep for the region's developers.
Singapore's Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) collected the Award for Best Urban Design and Master-planning for its work on the Bras Basah.Bugis Arts, Culture Learning and Entertainment District, while local developers to chime in included Capital Land Commercial Ltd (Built Waterfront Development: Clarke Quay), City Developments Limited (Future Retail: City Square Mall) and UOL Group (Built Residential for Newton Suites).
Winning projects from Malaysia included ZLG SDN BHD for the BOH Visitor Centre in the Cameron Highlands (Corporate Social Responsibility), Kesas Kenangan Sdn Bhd for Setia Eco Gardens in Johor Bahru (Built Commercial), TTDI Harta SDN BHD for the Laman Seri Business Park in Shah Alam and Bandaraya Developments Berhad for The Troika in Kuala Lumpur.
The People's Republic of China also made a strong showing with the Xiang Shan International Yacht Club's, Deep Blue Marina in Xiamen being selected as the best Future Waterfront Development while Financial Street Holding Co. Ltd's was recognised with the Award for the best Built Retail for Seasons Place in Beijing. China also made a clean sweep in the Mixed Use category with Chongbang Group receiving the plaudit for its already built Life Hub @ Daning in the Zhabei District of Shanghai, while Capital Land (China Investment Company Ltd), scored with Raffles City at 1 Dongzhimen Nan Da Jie in Beijing.
Graham Wood, Exhibition Director of Cityscape Asia said the strength of the winning projects reflected the 'overwhelming progress in Asia's real estate sector over the past year.'
"Regional development has matured significantly, which is reflected not only in the quality but also their social & environmental impact. Sustainability is now a key issue for many of the leading developers and it is appropriate that the next Cityscape event will take place in Abu Dhabi, a future model of sustainable development," commented Wood.
A panel of international judges rated each project on its contribution to world architecture, culture, invention and imagination, respect for the people and environmental awareness and appropriateness in the emerging and recently developing countries in the Asian region.
Cityscape Asia 2008 runs until 17 April 2008 in Singapore's Suntec Exhibition and Conference Centre. The event is showcasing iconic architecture and property investment opportunities throughout the region and beyond to an audience of regional and international investors, real estate developers, architects and designers, governments and senior professionals.
This year Cityscape Asia features 114 exhibitors from 17 countries, including a strong showing from UAE major developers Limitless and Union Properties. In total 6,000 real estate professionals are expected to participate in the three-day event.
Cityscape Asia also hosts the International Property Investment and Development Conference with more than 50 speakers including CEOs, managing directors and government officials examining the opportunities in Asia including real estate investment trusts, derivatives and an Asian investment property databank. Key UAE-based speakers include, Philip Atkinson, Regional Director of Limitless, Binod Shankar, Director of finance at Meraas and John Thomas, Associate Director of Mubadala Development
SIFF judge Dustin Nguyen rates local indie films
The 21st Singapore International Film Festival (SIFF) was held in Singapore from April 4-14, with an exciting line up of independent films from the region, Asian cinema and world cinema.
Dustin Nguyen, a Vietnamese-American actor who shot to fame in the 1987 TV drama series 21 Jump Street and who starred in the 2005 Australian independent film Little Fish, was invited by the SIFF committee to be a member of the festival's official judging panel.
The Jakarta Post caught up with Nguyen on the sidelines of the SIFF to get his perspective of the festival and the Indonesian independent films he watched and judged as a SIFF jury member.
Dustin Nguyen, a Vietnamese-American actor who shot to fame in the 1987 TV drama series 21 Jump Street and who starred in the 2005 Australian independent film Little Fish, was invited by the SIFF committee to be a member of the festival's official judging panel.
The Jakarta Post caught up with Nguyen on the sidelines of the SIFF to get his perspective of the festival and the Indonesian independent films he watched and judged as a SIFF jury member.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Yen, Singapore's Dollar, Indian Rupee: Asia Currency Preview
The following events and economic reports may influence trading in Asian currencies today.
Exchange rates are from the previous session.
Japanese yen: Chief Cabinet Secretary Nobutaka Machimura will talk to reporters at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. The Ministry of Finance's top bureaucrat Hiroki Tsuda will hold a news conference at 5 p.m.
The finance ministry will release at 8:50 a.m. its report on foreign and Japanese investment flows in overseas and domestic securities during the week ended April 12.
The yen traded at 101.56 at 3:53 p.m. in Singapore yesterday.
Singapore's dollar: Non-oil domestic exports edged up 0.4 percent in March from a year earlier, economists said in a Bloomberg News survey before a report at 1 p.m. Overseas sales climbed 7.3 percent in February.
The Singapore dollar was at S$1.3554.
Indian rupee: The wholesale price index rose 7.23 percent in the week ended April 5 after gaining 7.41 percent the previous week, economists said before a report at noon.
The rupee was at 39.9575.
Hong Kong dollar: The jobless rate was at 3.3 percent in March, unchanged from February's rate, economists said before a report at 4:15 p.m.
Exchange rates are from the previous session.
Japanese yen: Chief Cabinet Secretary Nobutaka Machimura will talk to reporters at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. The Ministry of Finance's top bureaucrat Hiroki Tsuda will hold a news conference at 5 p.m.
The finance ministry will release at 8:50 a.m. its report on foreign and Japanese investment flows in overseas and domestic securities during the week ended April 12.
The yen traded at 101.56 at 3:53 p.m. in Singapore yesterday.
Singapore's dollar: Non-oil domestic exports edged up 0.4 percent in March from a year earlier, economists said in a Bloomberg News survey before a report at 1 p.m. Overseas sales climbed 7.3 percent in February.
The Singapore dollar was at S$1.3554.
Indian rupee: The wholesale price index rose 7.23 percent in the week ended April 5 after gaining 7.41 percent the previous week, economists said before a report at noon.
The rupee was at 39.9575.
Hong Kong dollar: The jobless rate was at 3.3 percent in March, unchanged from February's rate, economists said before a report at 4:15 p.m.
Maid-in-Singapore syndicate busted
Authorities have dismantled a syndicate that lured Filipino tourists to Singapore following the arrest of a travel agent and 16 of his employees.
Criminal Investigation and Detection Group presented yesterday in Camp Crame Luciano Lim, owner of Excellent Travel Agency at 1523-1525 M. H. del Pilar, Ermita, Manila; and his employees Jaime Alaoria, Fresa Robles, Laudemer Tovillo, Crytel Alejandro, Arceli Palolan, Analou Gigante, Marilene De Lar, Ria Ritzthamine Evangelista, Eloisa Pacheco, Ronaldo Linsad, Aries Oliveros, Flordeliza Herpacio, Dennis Perez, Diane Cortes, Ernesto Ramos and Cristina Mercado.
In his report to National Police Chief Avelino Razon Jr., Chief Supt. Raul Castaneda, CIDG chief, said the arrest came after Vice President Noli de Castro endorsed the victims' complaint that they were promised jobs in Singapore as maids.
Razon ordered the group to push for more arrests because there appeared to be connivance among the travel and recruiting agencies both in Manila and in Singapore.
There were also reports that some of the victims were sexually violated by their employers while others were homeless for duration of their 14-day stay.
Senior Supt. Gilbert Sosa, chief of the Anti-Transnational Crime Division, said the group was eyeing about 30 other travel agencies engaged in human trafficking, a non-bailable offense and punishable by life imprisonment under Republic Act 9208, or the Anti-Human Trafficking of Persons Act of 2003.
Criminal Investigation and Detection Group presented yesterday in Camp Crame Luciano Lim, owner of Excellent Travel Agency at 1523-1525 M. H. del Pilar, Ermita, Manila; and his employees Jaime Alaoria, Fresa Robles, Laudemer Tovillo, Crytel Alejandro, Arceli Palolan, Analou Gigante, Marilene De Lar, Ria Ritzthamine Evangelista, Eloisa Pacheco, Ronaldo Linsad, Aries Oliveros, Flordeliza Herpacio, Dennis Perez, Diane Cortes, Ernesto Ramos and Cristina Mercado.
In his report to National Police Chief Avelino Razon Jr., Chief Supt. Raul Castaneda, CIDG chief, said the arrest came after Vice President Noli de Castro endorsed the victims' complaint that they were promised jobs in Singapore as maids.
Razon ordered the group to push for more arrests because there appeared to be connivance among the travel and recruiting agencies both in Manila and in Singapore.
There were also reports that some of the victims were sexually violated by their employers while others were homeless for duration of their 14-day stay.
Senior Supt. Gilbert Sosa, chief of the Anti-Transnational Crime Division, said the group was eyeing about 30 other travel agencies engaged in human trafficking, a non-bailable offense and punishable by life imprisonment under Republic Act 9208, or the Anti-Human Trafficking of Persons Act of 2003.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Singapore Stocks May Inch Forward Again
The Singapore stock market has extended its winning streak to three days, and now analysts predict that the Straits Times Index could modestly add to those gains on Friday. The market is likely to trade in a tight range, thanks to the mixed message from Wall Street overnight.
Lacking any fresh leads, the global cues could cool market activity somewhat after a few standout performances earlier in the week. There were several mixed economic and corporate reports out of the U.S., but not really enough to drive the market lower.
The market was slightly higher on Thursday in light volume, mirroring the rise on Wall Street overnight, led by the financials.
For the day, the index gained 38.31 points or 1.26 percent to close at 3,126.30 after trading between 3,126.30 and 3,152.54. Volume was 1.42 billion shares worth 1.77 billion Singapore dollars. There were 373 gainers and 263 decliners, with 944 stocks remaining unchanged.
Banks and properties continued their rebound to set the pace on Thursday as DBS Group was up 0.6 percent, United Overseas Bank added 1.3 percent and Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp was up 1.6 percent, while CapitaLand gained 3.36 percent, City Developments was up 1.7 percent and Keppel Land added 1.9 percent.
Among the other gainers, Keppel Corp climbed 4.5 percent, SembCorp Marine jumped 3.8 percent, StarHub gained 2.3 percent, KSH Holdings was up 15.2 percent, Singapore Airlines added 0.5 percent, Singapore Exchange rose 2.1 percent and Straits Asia Resources Ltd. climbed 2.1 percent. Singapore Telecom was flat, and MobileOne fell 1.0 percent.
Wall Street provides a virtually flat lead as some good news lifted market sentiment, while some bad news held the gains in check. Concerns over the economy rose after the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia said that activity in the Philadelphia-area manufacturing sector saw continued weakness in the month of April, with the pace of contraction in the sector unexpectedly accelerating.
But the Conference Board released its report on leading economic indicators in the month of March, showing that its leading index increased in line with economist estimates following five consecutive monthly declines. Also, the Department of Labor released its report on initial jobless claims in the week ended April 12, showing that jobless claims rebounded in line with economists' expectations after showing a considerable decline in the previous week.
Among corporate data, investors spent the day looking over quarterly results from several companies, including IBM (IBM), Merrill Lynch (MER), Pfizer (PFE) and United Technologies (UTX).
The Dow and S&P 500 showed throughout the day, climbing above the unchanged line in the afternoon, while the Nasdaq spent the entire session in negative territory. While the Dow closed up 1.22 points or 0.01 percent at 12,620.49 and the S&P 500 closed up 0.85 points or 0.1 percent at 1,365.56, the Nasdaq closed down 8.28 points or 0.4 percent at 2,341.83.
In economic news, Singapore's seasonally adjusted non-oil domestic exports declined 6% on month in March, following a 1.4% decrease in the preceding month, the International Enterprise Singapore reported Thursday. On an annual basis, NODX decreased 5.9%, reversing February's revised 6.2% increase, due to a fall in both electronic and non-electronic NODX. Exports to Japan, South Korea and Hong Kong registered increases in the month of March and that to the rest of the top 10 NODX markets recorded decreases. The largest contributors to the NODX contraction were the EU, the U.S. and Malaysia.
Also, non-oil re-exports fell 1.1% year-on-year in March, compared to 6.7% increase in February. The International Enterprise explained the fall was due to contraction in electronic NORX. On a seasonally adjusted month-on-month basis, NORX declined 3%, slower than 6.6% decrease in the prior month.
However, Singapore's total trade grew 11% year-on-year in March, significantly slower than the 19% increase seen in February. Total exports rose 4.4% on an annual basis, sharply slower than the previous month's 18% increase. Total imports accelerated 18%, following a 20% expansion in February.
In corporate news, Bursa Malaysia and Singapore's MobileOne will report first quarter numbers on Friday, while Singapore's Ascendas REIT will announce year to March results.
Lacking any fresh leads, the global cues could cool market activity somewhat after a few standout performances earlier in the week. There were several mixed economic and corporate reports out of the U.S., but not really enough to drive the market lower.
The market was slightly higher on Thursday in light volume, mirroring the rise on Wall Street overnight, led by the financials.
For the day, the index gained 38.31 points or 1.26 percent to close at 3,126.30 after trading between 3,126.30 and 3,152.54. Volume was 1.42 billion shares worth 1.77 billion Singapore dollars. There were 373 gainers and 263 decliners, with 944 stocks remaining unchanged.
Banks and properties continued their rebound to set the pace on Thursday as DBS Group was up 0.6 percent, United Overseas Bank added 1.3 percent and Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp was up 1.6 percent, while CapitaLand gained 3.36 percent, City Developments was up 1.7 percent and Keppel Land added 1.9 percent.
Among the other gainers, Keppel Corp climbed 4.5 percent, SembCorp Marine jumped 3.8 percent, StarHub gained 2.3 percent, KSH Holdings was up 15.2 percent, Singapore Airlines added 0.5 percent, Singapore Exchange rose 2.1 percent and Straits Asia Resources Ltd. climbed 2.1 percent. Singapore Telecom was flat, and MobileOne fell 1.0 percent.
Wall Street provides a virtually flat lead as some good news lifted market sentiment, while some bad news held the gains in check. Concerns over the economy rose after the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia said that activity in the Philadelphia-area manufacturing sector saw continued weakness in the month of April, with the pace of contraction in the sector unexpectedly accelerating.
But the Conference Board released its report on leading economic indicators in the month of March, showing that its leading index increased in line with economist estimates following five consecutive monthly declines. Also, the Department of Labor released its report on initial jobless claims in the week ended April 12, showing that jobless claims rebounded in line with economists' expectations after showing a considerable decline in the previous week.
Among corporate data, investors spent the day looking over quarterly results from several companies, including IBM (IBM), Merrill Lynch (MER), Pfizer (PFE) and United Technologies (UTX).
The Dow and S&P 500 showed throughout the day, climbing above the unchanged line in the afternoon, while the Nasdaq spent the entire session in negative territory. While the Dow closed up 1.22 points or 0.01 percent at 12,620.49 and the S&P 500 closed up 0.85 points or 0.1 percent at 1,365.56, the Nasdaq closed down 8.28 points or 0.4 percent at 2,341.83.
In economic news, Singapore's seasonally adjusted non-oil domestic exports declined 6% on month in March, following a 1.4% decrease in the preceding month, the International Enterprise Singapore reported Thursday. On an annual basis, NODX decreased 5.9%, reversing February's revised 6.2% increase, due to a fall in both electronic and non-electronic NODX. Exports to Japan, South Korea and Hong Kong registered increases in the month of March and that to the rest of the top 10 NODX markets recorded decreases. The largest contributors to the NODX contraction were the EU, the U.S. and Malaysia.
Also, non-oil re-exports fell 1.1% year-on-year in March, compared to 6.7% increase in February. The International Enterprise explained the fall was due to contraction in electronic NORX. On a seasonally adjusted month-on-month basis, NORX declined 3%, slower than 6.6% decrease in the prior month.
However, Singapore's total trade grew 11% year-on-year in March, significantly slower than the 19% increase seen in February. Total exports rose 4.4% on an annual basis, sharply slower than the previous month's 18% increase. Total imports accelerated 18%, following a 20% expansion in February.
In corporate news, Bursa Malaysia and Singapore's MobileOne will report first quarter numbers on Friday, while Singapore's Ascendas REIT will announce year to March results.
Nepali cultural nite in Singapore
Nepali Society Singapore organised a special function to mark the Nepali New Year 2065.
The night function saw series of Nepali cultural and literary performances intended to preserve Nepali identity in a foreign land.
According to Pankaj Shah, more than 150 Nepalis working, studying and involved in business in Singapore including Nepali consulate attended the function.
Nepali Singapore Society is the first officially registered Nepali Society in that country.
The night function saw series of Nepali cultural and literary performances intended to preserve Nepali identity in a foreign land.
According to Pankaj Shah, more than 150 Nepalis working, studying and involved in business in Singapore including Nepali consulate attended the function.
Nepali Singapore Society is the first officially registered Nepali Society in that country.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Giant wheel is London's latest attraction
London is gaining a spectacular new revolving landmark to rival the London Eye. The Greenwich Observation Wheel will open to the public in summer 2008 and offers a 55-metre high ride with panoramic views of the city. Visitors should be able to take in St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London as well as Canary Wharf, the Olympic site in the Lea Valley and Hampstead Heath to the north.
The wheel will be located within the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich and remain open from June 21 to September 28. The free- standing skeletal structure can carry up to 240 people in 40 gondolas.
The Greenwich wheel is smaller than the London Eye, which has become one of the capital's most enduring tourist attractions and stands 135 metres high on the South Bank. The Singapore Flyer observation wheel to be unveiled this year will become of the world's tallest of its kind at 165 metres.
The wheel will be located within the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich and remain open from June 21 to September 28. The free- standing skeletal structure can carry up to 240 people in 40 gondolas.
The Greenwich wheel is smaller than the London Eye, which has become one of the capital's most enduring tourist attractions and stands 135 metres high on the South Bank. The Singapore Flyer observation wheel to be unveiled this year will become of the world's tallest of its kind at 165 metres.
20 sent to hospital over gas leak in Singapore mall
Twenty people complaining of breathing difficulties were sent to hospital after an unknown gas was released in a Singapore shopping center on Monday afternoon, local media reported.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said it was notified about the leak at Golden Landmark Shopping Complex in central Singapore at 4.11pm local time (0811GMT), local TV channel NewsAsia reported.
The source of the gas is unknown. Also unknown is whether the leak was deliberate or an accident. Police are investigating the case.
The report said a man, one of the 20 people who were sent to the Singapore General Hospital, was taken into police custody, but it was not known what role the man had in the incident.
SCDF's Colonel Eric Yap was quoted as saying, "About 40 people attended to the incident. When we arrived, we did a full detection test of the premises. What we discovered was there is no residual contaminants in the premises, and we further confirmed this with a very precise testing of each of the locations."
SCDF also confirmed that the affected area was confined to a staircase lobby and the estimated 10-meter radius around it, said the report.
Singapore has tightened its security recently after the escape of the Singapore leader of an terror group the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) from a detention center on February 27.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said it was notified about the leak at Golden Landmark Shopping Complex in central Singapore at 4.11pm local time (0811GMT), local TV channel NewsAsia reported.
The source of the gas is unknown. Also unknown is whether the leak was deliberate or an accident. Police are investigating the case.
The report said a man, one of the 20 people who were sent to the Singapore General Hospital, was taken into police custody, but it was not known what role the man had in the incident.
SCDF's Colonel Eric Yap was quoted as saying, "About 40 people attended to the incident. When we arrived, we did a full detection test of the premises. What we discovered was there is no residual contaminants in the premises, and we further confirmed this with a very precise testing of each of the locations."
SCDF also confirmed that the affected area was confined to a staircase lobby and the estimated 10-meter radius around it, said the report.
Singapore has tightened its security recently after the escape of the Singapore leader of an terror group the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) from a detention center on February 27.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Singapore Changi opens new T3 shopping and dining precinct
Singapore Changi Airport formally opened its new shopping and dining at T3 today.
The launch was officiated by Lim Kim Choon, pictured, director-general and CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). T3's public area features some 60 retail and food and beverage outlets over 8600 sqm – the largest dedicated retail and F&B space in the public areas among Changi Airport's terminals.
The extensive shopping and dining zones at T3's public area means visitors to the airport need not be travellers to enjoy the shopping and dining experience at the new terminal. Shopping and dining outlets are located at two dedicated areas, namely "B2 Mall @ T3" located at Basement 2 and "3-Top" on Levels 3 and 4.
Visitors can also enjoy late night shopping and dining every night as the retail outlets are open till 11pm daily, while some dining outlets are open 24-hours.
Said Lim: "Though an airport is primarily for travellers, many Singaporeans, especially those living in the eastern part of the island, visit the airport to dine and relax on weekends. We hope these visitors will continue to enjoy shopping and dining at Changi Airport, in particular, the unique retail and F&B experience at Terminal 3's public area."
In conjunction with the launch, a shopping promotion will run exclusively in the public areas of T3 from 1 to 30 April. During this promotion, 30 people will win an all-expenses paid trip to the Beijing Olympics.
T3 is a seven-storey 380,000 sqm building with three basement and four above ground levels. It adds a capacity of 22 million passengers per annum to Changi Airport, bringing the airport's total annual capability to about 70 million passengers. Changi Airport's total retail and F&B space amounts to 48,000 sqm with about 230 retail and over 110 food & beverage outlets.
The launch was officiated by Lim Kim Choon, pictured, director-general and CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). T3's public area features some 60 retail and food and beverage outlets over 8600 sqm – the largest dedicated retail and F&B space in the public areas among Changi Airport's terminals.
The extensive shopping and dining zones at T3's public area means visitors to the airport need not be travellers to enjoy the shopping and dining experience at the new terminal. Shopping and dining outlets are located at two dedicated areas, namely "B2 Mall @ T3" located at Basement 2 and "3-Top" on Levels 3 and 4.
Visitors can also enjoy late night shopping and dining every night as the retail outlets are open till 11pm daily, while some dining outlets are open 24-hours.
Said Lim: "Though an airport is primarily for travellers, many Singaporeans, especially those living in the eastern part of the island, visit the airport to dine and relax on weekends. We hope these visitors will continue to enjoy shopping and dining at Changi Airport, in particular, the unique retail and F&B experience at Terminal 3's public area."
In conjunction with the launch, a shopping promotion will run exclusively in the public areas of T3 from 1 to 30 April. During this promotion, 30 people will win an all-expenses paid trip to the Beijing Olympics.
T3 is a seven-storey 380,000 sqm building with three basement and four above ground levels. It adds a capacity of 22 million passengers per annum to Changi Airport, bringing the airport's total annual capability to about 70 million passengers. Changi Airport's total retail and F&B space amounts to 48,000 sqm with about 230 retail and over 110 food & beverage outlets.
Airport operator's profit soars
In the three months to March 31, Southern Cross reported earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $162 million, excluding specific expenses.
The company said total revenue from all of its business units rose 7.6 per cent over the prior corresponding period to $200.7 million.
Kerrie Mather -- the chief executive of Southern Cross's owner, Macquarie Airports (MAp) -- said it was a sound earnings result.
"The Sydney result was very solid, up nearly 7 per cent, and we will see continued growth from our commercial activities and the expansion of our facilities," Ms Mather said.
Southern Cross continued to invest in all of its businesses, she said.
Capital expenditure during the first quarter reached $74 million, with about $69 million devoted to growth expenditure, including spending on a multi-storey car park, international terminal redevelopment and new large aircraft works.
The redevelopment of the international terminal, which includes improved passenger processing facilities, baggage system and retail dwelling space, was also well under way, Ms Mather said.
The company said total revenue from all of its business units rose 7.6 per cent over the prior corresponding period to $200.7 million.
Kerrie Mather -- the chief executive of Southern Cross's owner, Macquarie Airports (MAp) -- said it was a sound earnings result.
"The Sydney result was very solid, up nearly 7 per cent, and we will see continued growth from our commercial activities and the expansion of our facilities," Ms Mather said.
Southern Cross continued to invest in all of its businesses, she said.
Capital expenditure during the first quarter reached $74 million, with about $69 million devoted to growth expenditure, including spending on a multi-storey car park, international terminal redevelopment and new large aircraft works.
The redevelopment of the international terminal, which includes improved passenger processing facilities, baggage system and retail dwelling space, was also well under way, Ms Mather said.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Singapore Exports Unexpectedly Fall; Europe, U.S. Sales Decline
Singapore's exports unexpectedly dropped in March, posting the biggest decline in 13 months, as pharmaceutical companies and electronics manufacturers shipped fewer goods to customers in the U.S. and Europe.
Non-oil domestic exports fell 5.9 percent from a year earlier following a revised 6.2 percent increase in February, the government's trade promotion agency said in a statement today. Economists expected a 0.4 percent gain.
Manufacturers in Singapore and across Asia are facing slower demand for their products amid signs the U.S., the region's largest export market, is heading for a recession. The World Bank this month said global trade volumes are expected to climb between 4 percent and 5 percent this year, compared with a 7.5 percent increase in 2007.
``Electronic exports are still fairly weak,'' said Ho Woei Chen, an analyst at United Overseas Bank Ltd. in Singapore. ``We expect U.S. growth to be better only later in the year, so export demand will remain moderate until then.''
Pharmaceutical shipments dropped 34.1 percent last month from a year earlier, after gaining 7.6 percent in February. Drug shipments were valued at S$1.62 billion ($1.2 billion) in March, compared with S$1.67 billion the month before.
Non-electronics shipments, which include petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, fell 4.2 percent from a year earlier. Petrochemical exports declined 11.8 percent in the same period, today's report showed.
Computer Chips
Electronics shipments slid 8.5 percent in March from a year earlier, the 14th consecutive drop, following a revised 2.4 percent decline in February. Sales of electronics products were worth S$5.4 billion last month compared with S$5.1 billion in February.
Singapore's semiconductor shipments declined 6.9 percent from a year earlier after sliding a revised 3.6 percent in February. Disk-drive exports rose 1.3 percent in March.
Overseas sales fell a seasonally adjusted 2.6 percent last month from February, when they dropped a revised 1.4 percent, today's report showed. Economists expected a 1 percent gain.
Sales to the European Union, Singapore's largest overseas market, fell 23.7 percent in March. Shipments to the U.S., its second-biggest market, dropped 27.5 percent, while exports to China decreased 6.2 percent in March.
Non-oil domestic exports fell 5.9 percent from a year earlier following a revised 6.2 percent increase in February, the government's trade promotion agency said in a statement today. Economists expected a 0.4 percent gain.
Manufacturers in Singapore and across Asia are facing slower demand for their products amid signs the U.S., the region's largest export market, is heading for a recession. The World Bank this month said global trade volumes are expected to climb between 4 percent and 5 percent this year, compared with a 7.5 percent increase in 2007.
``Electronic exports are still fairly weak,'' said Ho Woei Chen, an analyst at United Overseas Bank Ltd. in Singapore. ``We expect U.S. growth to be better only later in the year, so export demand will remain moderate until then.''
Pharmaceutical shipments dropped 34.1 percent last month from a year earlier, after gaining 7.6 percent in February. Drug shipments were valued at S$1.62 billion ($1.2 billion) in March, compared with S$1.67 billion the month before.
Non-electronics shipments, which include petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, fell 4.2 percent from a year earlier. Petrochemical exports declined 11.8 percent in the same period, today's report showed.
Computer Chips
Electronics shipments slid 8.5 percent in March from a year earlier, the 14th consecutive drop, following a revised 2.4 percent decline in February. Sales of electronics products were worth S$5.4 billion last month compared with S$5.1 billion in February.
Singapore's semiconductor shipments declined 6.9 percent from a year earlier after sliding a revised 3.6 percent in February. Disk-drive exports rose 1.3 percent in March.
Overseas sales fell a seasonally adjusted 2.6 percent last month from February, when they dropped a revised 1.4 percent, today's report showed. Economists expected a 1 percent gain.
Sales to the European Union, Singapore's largest overseas market, fell 23.7 percent in March. Shipments to the U.S., its second-biggest market, dropped 27.5 percent, while exports to China decreased 6.2 percent in March.
Singapore's non-oil domestic exports down 5.9% in March
The non-oil domestic exports (NODX) in Singapore dropped 5.9 percent in March this year over a year ago, due to a fall in both electronics and non-electronics exports.
According to the figures released by International Enterprise Singapore (IE Singapore) on Thursday, the electronics exports, which have been on the descent since February last year, continued to decline by 8.5 percent in March this year. Non-electronics exports reversed the preceding month's 13 percent healthy increase by falling 4.2 percent.
Singapore's NODX to Japan, South Korea and China's Hong Kong rose, but the sector's exports to the rest of the top 10 NODX markets decreased in March this year, and the largest contributors to the NODX contraction were the European Union (EU), the United States and Malaysia.
Singapore's NODX to China dropped by 6.2 percent in March this year, compared to the 4.1 percent growth in February this year.
Total exports rose by 4.4 percent in March this year, following the previous month's 18 percent growth. Total trade jumped by 11 percent in March this year, slower than the previous month 's 19 percent expansion.
According to the figures released by International Enterprise Singapore (IE Singapore) on Thursday, the electronics exports, which have been on the descent since February last year, continued to decline by 8.5 percent in March this year. Non-electronics exports reversed the preceding month's 13 percent healthy increase by falling 4.2 percent.
Singapore's NODX to Japan, South Korea and China's Hong Kong rose, but the sector's exports to the rest of the top 10 NODX markets decreased in March this year, and the largest contributors to the NODX contraction were the European Union (EU), the United States and Malaysia.
Singapore's NODX to China dropped by 6.2 percent in March this year, compared to the 4.1 percent growth in February this year.
Total exports rose by 4.4 percent in March this year, following the previous month's 18 percent growth. Total trade jumped by 11 percent in March this year, slower than the previous month 's 19 percent expansion.
Monday, July 28, 2008
New masterplan launched in Singapore to boost infocomm security
SINGAPORE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Singapore on Thursday launched a new 70 million Singapore dollars (about 51.85 million U.S. dollars) masterplan to strengthen the country's infocomm security over the next five years.
"Over the next five years, the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA), together with the industry, will be investing a further 70 million Singapore dollars into infocomm security programs under this year Master plan," Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Vivian Balakrishnan said at the annual infocomm security seminar.
The minister said that while the first Masterplan aimed largelyat providing the public sector with measures to counter infocomm security threats, the second Masterplan (MP2) will expand on that and engage both the public and private sectors even more deeply in securing Singapore's cyber space.
The second Masterplan outlines four strategies to protect Singapore's national infocomm infrastructure and services, namely: hardening national infocomm infrastructure and services; Enhancing infocomm security competencies; Cultivating vibrant infocomm security ecosystem; Increasing international collaboration.
"Over the next five years, the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA), together with the industry, will be investing a further 70 million Singapore dollars into infocomm security programs under this year Master plan," Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Vivian Balakrishnan said at the annual infocomm security seminar.
The minister said that while the first Masterplan aimed largelyat providing the public sector with measures to counter infocomm security threats, the second Masterplan (MP2) will expand on that and engage both the public and private sectors even more deeply in securing Singapore's cyber space.
The second Masterplan outlines four strategies to protect Singapore's national infocomm infrastructure and services, namely: hardening national infocomm infrastructure and services; Enhancing infocomm security competencies; Cultivating vibrant infocomm security ecosystem; Increasing international collaboration.
Singapore to use electronic flag displays
As well as making history as Formula One racing's first-ever night race, the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix will also mark the introduction of electronic flag displays to the sport. The new technology, developed by lighting consultants Valerio Maioli S.p.A for the Singapore event, will be used in conjunction with the traditional flag signals waved by marshals.
The innovative system, which meets the FIA's stringent requirements, is the result of more than a decade of development at the Barcelona, Imola and Monza racing circuits. Similar to units used to guide pilots at the runways of major airports, these 'DigiFlags' will convey the different flag colours in a more visible way during the night race.
Thirty five display panels will be situated around the Singapore track, each controlled by handheld panels operated by officials at each marshals' post. In addition to improved visibility, the new system will also provide the race director with an overview of every flag display around the circuit, thereby ensuring the more efficient communication of warnings.
With less than six months to go before the inaugural Singapore event takes place on September 28, the race organisers have been hard work preparing the new street circuit. A week-long demonstration of the lighting system was held from March 29, with a 64-metre stretch lit up with 16 projectors, ahead of its complete installation in August.
The innovative system, which meets the FIA's stringent requirements, is the result of more than a decade of development at the Barcelona, Imola and Monza racing circuits. Similar to units used to guide pilots at the runways of major airports, these 'DigiFlags' will convey the different flag colours in a more visible way during the night race.
Thirty five display panels will be situated around the Singapore track, each controlled by handheld panels operated by officials at each marshals' post. In addition to improved visibility, the new system will also provide the race director with an overview of every flag display around the circuit, thereby ensuring the more efficient communication of warnings.
With less than six months to go before the inaugural Singapore event takes place on September 28, the race organisers have been hard work preparing the new street circuit. A week-long demonstration of the lighting system was held from March 29, with a 64-metre stretch lit up with 16 projectors, ahead of its complete installation in August.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Singapore's Sembcorp to operate Brazil shipyard
Singapore's Sembcorp Marine (SCMN.SI: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Thursday its unit has signed an agreement with Brazil's Mac Laren Shipyard to operate a shipyard in the Latin American country.
Under the alliance its unit, Jurong Shipyard, would collaborate with Mac Laren for all future offshore oil and gas projects in Brazil, the company said in a statement.
Analysts said earlier this week that Singapore's offshore oil firms such as Sembcorp could benefit from a large oil find in Brazil by Petrobras
Under the alliance its unit, Jurong Shipyard, would collaborate with Mac Laren for all future offshore oil and gas projects in Brazil, the company said in a statement.
Analysts said earlier this week that Singapore's offshore oil firms such as Sembcorp could benefit from a large oil find in Brazil by Petrobras
Singapore says favours subway rail link to Malaysia
Singapore said on Thursday it welcomed a suggestion by Malaysia to connect the city-state's subway system to the southern Malaysian state of Johor.
"The link should not be a difficult one and it will bring immediate advantages to both sides," Singapore Foreign Minister George Yeo told local reporters, according to transcripts released by his ministry.
Malaysian Foreign Minister Rais Yatim had earlier asked Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to consider connecting the city-state's urban rail network to the Iskandar Malaysia special economic zone.
To be developed over a period of 20 years, Malaysia hopes the 2,200 sq km (850 sq mile) zone in Johor state would be able to generate jobs and investments in projects catering to companies and individuals in wealthy but land-scarce Singapore.
The two countries are separated by a narrow strip of water and connected by two bridges.
"The link should not be a difficult one and it will bring immediate advantages to both sides," Singapore Foreign Minister George Yeo told local reporters, according to transcripts released by his ministry.
Malaysian Foreign Minister Rais Yatim had earlier asked Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to consider connecting the city-state's urban rail network to the Iskandar Malaysia special economic zone.
To be developed over a period of 20 years, Malaysia hopes the 2,200 sq km (850 sq mile) zone in Johor state would be able to generate jobs and investments in projects catering to companies and individuals in wealthy but land-scarce Singapore.
The two countries are separated by a narrow strip of water and connected by two bridges.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Singapore PM meets Malaysian FM on bilateral ties
Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong met here on Thursday with visiting Malaysian Foreign Minister Rais Yatim and both sides reaffirmed the importance of having good neighborly relations between the two countries.
During the meeting, Lee responded positively to a suggestion by Malaysian Johor's Chief Minister Abdul Ghani Othman to link up the urban rails of Singapore and Johor Bahru.
The proposal will be discussed by a joint ministerial committee.
Rais Yatim, who arrived here on Thursday, also discussed with his Singapore counterpart George Yeo the ways of how to further integrate the two countries' economies and exchanged views on recent developments in Malaysia and bilateral relations with Singapore's Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.
Rais Yatim told a press conference later Thursday that between the two neighboring countries, there is only a one-way street, that is to forge ahead together for a future within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and to share the good fortunes of what the world will offer.
Singapore is the first stop in a series of introductory visits by Rais Yatim, who was appointed Malaysia's foreign minister after the March general elections.
During the meeting, Lee responded positively to a suggestion by Malaysian Johor's Chief Minister Abdul Ghani Othman to link up the urban rails of Singapore and Johor Bahru.
The proposal will be discussed by a joint ministerial committee.
Rais Yatim, who arrived here on Thursday, also discussed with his Singapore counterpart George Yeo the ways of how to further integrate the two countries' economies and exchanged views on recent developments in Malaysia and bilateral relations with Singapore's Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.
Rais Yatim told a press conference later Thursday that between the two neighboring countries, there is only a one-way street, that is to forge ahead together for a future within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and to share the good fortunes of what the world will offer.
Singapore is the first stop in a series of introductory visits by Rais Yatim, who was appointed Malaysia's foreign minister after the March general elections.
Singapore's NOL looking at possible Hapag-Lloyd tie-up
A deal could not be ruled out, although nothing has been finalised, The Straits Times quoted NOL's president and chief executive, Thomas Held, as saying.
"We have said all along that we want to play an active role as a consolidator in the shipping industry if this creates value for shareholders and fits in with our long-term strategy," Held was quoted as saying.
"We have to look at all opportunities, so of course we have to look at this," he reportedly said in reference to a possible tie-up with Hapag-Lloyd.
Last month the German leisure and shipping group TUI said it was reviewing strategy and would likely separate its shipping unit Hapag-Lloyd.
TUI said it would examine all options for Hapag-Lloyd, including a spin-off, a merger with a peer or a sale to an investor.
"We need to know what TUI intends to do exactly, as this has not been made clear yet," Held said in The Straits Times.
"We have to see what's the next step happening in Germany."
NOL is 66 percent owned by Singapore state-linked investment firm Temasek Holdings, the Temasek website says.
In February, NOL reported a 44 percent full-year increase in net profit, mainly on improved container shipping volumes and freight rates.
Net profit for the year ended December 28 was 523 million US dollars compared with 364 million a year earlier, the global container shipping and logistics group said.
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"We have said all along that we want to play an active role as a consolidator in the shipping industry if this creates value for shareholders and fits in with our long-term strategy," Held was quoted as saying.
"We have to look at all opportunities, so of course we have to look at this," he reportedly said in reference to a possible tie-up with Hapag-Lloyd.
Last month the German leisure and shipping group TUI said it was reviewing strategy and would likely separate its shipping unit Hapag-Lloyd.
TUI said it would examine all options for Hapag-Lloyd, including a spin-off, a merger with a peer or a sale to an investor.
"We need to know what TUI intends to do exactly, as this has not been made clear yet," Held said in The Straits Times.
"We have to see what's the next step happening in Germany."
NOL is 66 percent owned by Singapore state-linked investment firm Temasek Holdings, the Temasek website says.
In February, NOL reported a 44 percent full-year increase in net profit, mainly on improved container shipping volumes and freight rates.
Net profit for the year ended December 28 was 523 million US dollars compared with 364 million a year earlier, the global container shipping and logistics group said.
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Monday, July 7, 2008
Three ministers fly out for Dubai, Singapore
TAXPAYERS have funded air fares for a group of interim cabinet ministers who left yesterday for the 8th Global Travel and Tourism Summit in Dubai.
And although the cost has not been disclosed, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister's Office Parmesh Chand said the funding for the trip was taken from the official trips budget' of ministries.
On the trip to Dubai are interim Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, interim Minister for Justice and Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Public Enterprises interim Minister Tom Ricketts.
Mr Chand said the trip was budgeted for. "The trips of the ministers are funded by their own ministries and have been duly budgeted for from within Government's budget," Mr Chand said.
The group returns on May 2 after spending two weeks in Dubai and Singapore. The group will be joined in Singapore by Public Service Commission chairman Rishi Ram.
A statement from the interim PM's office said the Dubai summit would focus on the industry's attention to three global issues preserving the world's natural and cultural assets, travel and tourism's role in generating employment and wealth and harnessing growth.
"The Dubai summit will represent the world's most exemplary public-private partnership in the travel and tourism industry.
"The summit will engage invited participants in real dialogue on issues that affect the industry and the world." Commodore Bainimarama is expected to have meetings with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai Portsworld, Emirates Airlines and selected financial and investment institutions.
"On his return the Prime Minister will stopover in Singapore, focusing mainly on learning about the experiences of Singapore in civil service and public sector reforms. As the minister responsible for public service, he will have meetings and discussions to gain as much insight as possible on the reforms Singapore has implemented to bring about improvements and efficiencies in service delivery," said the statement.
Foreign Minister Ratu Epeli Nailatikau will act as Prime Minister.
And although the cost has not been disclosed, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister's Office Parmesh Chand said the funding for the trip was taken from the official trips budget' of ministries.
On the trip to Dubai are interim Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, interim Minister for Justice and Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Public Enterprises interim Minister Tom Ricketts.
Mr Chand said the trip was budgeted for. "The trips of the ministers are funded by their own ministries and have been duly budgeted for from within Government's budget," Mr Chand said.
The group returns on May 2 after spending two weeks in Dubai and Singapore. The group will be joined in Singapore by Public Service Commission chairman Rishi Ram.
A statement from the interim PM's office said the Dubai summit would focus on the industry's attention to three global issues preserving the world's natural and cultural assets, travel and tourism's role in generating employment and wealth and harnessing growth.
"The Dubai summit will represent the world's most exemplary public-private partnership in the travel and tourism industry.
"The summit will engage invited participants in real dialogue on issues that affect the industry and the world." Commodore Bainimarama is expected to have meetings with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai Portsworld, Emirates Airlines and selected financial and investment institutions.
"On his return the Prime Minister will stopover in Singapore, focusing mainly on learning about the experiences of Singapore in civil service and public sector reforms. As the minister responsible for public service, he will have meetings and discussions to gain as much insight as possible on the reforms Singapore has implemented to bring about improvements and efficiencies in service delivery," said the statement.
Foreign Minister Ratu Epeli Nailatikau will act as Prime Minister.
Singapore co Tenon eyes buys here
Facilities management start-up Tenon Property Services is casting its net for acquisitions in India just as it enters the country and plans to buy two companies within the next six months. Part of the Manjit Rajain-promoted Mortice Group of Singapore—already present here through security services subsidiary Peregrine Guarding—Tenon has commenced discussions with potential clients as it aims for a turnover of Rs 1,000 crore in three years.
The company will list this year on London's Alternative Investment Market (AIM) to raise Rs 100 crore and intends to use part of the funds to finance its acquisitions. "We intend to raise about Rs 100 crore through the AIM listing to fund our activities in India," Tenon CEO Andrew Barket said, adding that an international acquisition is also included in the company's plan. He did not disclose the names of companies Tenon was in discussion with for a possible acquisition.
Tenon's strategy will see it leverage Peregrine Guarding's client base of over 500 companies, including Accenture, Ranbaxy and Maruti Suzuki.
The company will list this year on London's Alternative Investment Market (AIM) to raise Rs 100 crore and intends to use part of the funds to finance its acquisitions. "We intend to raise about Rs 100 crore through the AIM listing to fund our activities in India," Tenon CEO Andrew Barket said, adding that an international acquisition is also included in the company's plan. He did not disclose the names of companies Tenon was in discussion with for a possible acquisition.
Tenon's strategy will see it leverage Peregrine Guarding's client base of over 500 companies, including Accenture, Ranbaxy and Maruti Suzuki.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Singapore's happiest person is..
A 35-year-old engineer was proclaimed "Singapore's Happiest Person" on Thursday for his unwavering cheer and ability to inspire similar sentiments in others.
Andy Goh, nominated by his colleagues, emerged the winner of a search that started last month to find the happiest Singaporean in the stressed-out city-state.
A poll by Grey Group, an advertising firm, found that nine out 10 people living in South-East Asia's most affluent economy acknowledged being stressed.
The grim result prompted Philip Merry, chief executive of consulting firm Global Leadership Academy, to find the happiest Singaporean. Members of the public were asked to submit nominations.
Four judges waded through the 207 entries, narrowed them down to four and announced Goh the winner at the conclusion of a two-day New Science of Happiness and Well-Being Conference and the recipient of a two-night hotel stay in the Thai resort of Phuket.
Judge John Bittleston, an author, said all of the finalists were comfortable with themselves.
Goh was deemed to have best met the criteria set by the judges, including a "happy smiling disposition, ability to be happy no matter what life presents, a strong sense of community and belonging, a consistent happiness without ups and downs and a contributor to society by bringing happiness to others."
Andy Goh, nominated by his colleagues, emerged the winner of a search that started last month to find the happiest Singaporean in the stressed-out city-state.
A poll by Grey Group, an advertising firm, found that nine out 10 people living in South-East Asia's most affluent economy acknowledged being stressed.
The grim result prompted Philip Merry, chief executive of consulting firm Global Leadership Academy, to find the happiest Singaporean. Members of the public were asked to submit nominations.
Four judges waded through the 207 entries, narrowed them down to four and announced Goh the winner at the conclusion of a two-day New Science of Happiness and Well-Being Conference and the recipient of a two-night hotel stay in the Thai resort of Phuket.
Judge John Bittleston, an author, said all of the finalists were comfortable with themselves.
Goh was deemed to have best met the criteria set by the judges, including a "happy smiling disposition, ability to be happy no matter what life presents, a strong sense of community and belonging, a consistent happiness without ups and downs and a contributor to society by bringing happiness to others."
President, Lee Kuan Yew to represent Singapore at Beijing Olympics
Singapore is sending President SR Nathan and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew to the Beijing Olympic Games in August, the foreign ministry said.
Lee, Singapore's first prime minister, will represent the city- state at the opening ceremony on August 8 and then return home for National Day, the ministry said in a statement on Thursday.
Nathan will attend the games from August 12 to 16 "in support of Singapore's national team," the statement said.
Singapore, selected to host the inaugural International Youth Olympic Games in 2010, has strongly opposed calls from other states to boycott Olympic events in protest against China's recent crackdown in Tibet.
Lee, Singapore's first prime minister, will represent the city- state at the opening ceremony on August 8 and then return home for National Day, the ministry said in a statement on Thursday.
Nathan will attend the games from August 12 to 16 "in support of Singapore's national team," the statement said.
Singapore, selected to host the inaugural International Youth Olympic Games in 2010, has strongly opposed calls from other states to boycott Olympic events in protest against China's recent crackdown in Tibet.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Singapore Expo is Home to Renowned International Trade Exhibitions and All Types of Events
Singapore Expo Convention and Exhibition Centre is the venue for many successful trade exhibitions, conventions, meetings, special occasions. The line up of all genres of events underscores its flexibility as a venue for success in business and trade. International and foreign based organizers and associations can hold their events here to ensure effective business networking.
Shows here see millions in trade done, and also bring global business visitors, and local and regional consumers into the venue.Singapore's strategic location, super infrastructure, world connectivity, fascinating tourist elements make this island the top choice for both business and leisure.
Singapore Expo also allows shows to expand seamlessly. The 10 multipurpose halls are 10,000sqm each, totaling 100,000sqm designed to suit exhibitions, conventions/meetings, banquets and performances. All halls are ground level, interlinked, pillarless, featuring 3.5G broadband.
The variety of events range from outdoor stunts in BikeAsia2008, to massive cooking and hospitality demo sets in FoodnHotelAsia2008, to apparel machinery in JIAM2008, and latest infocomm in CommunicAsia2008, to Conventions like Science of Happiness, Herbalife (17,000 delegates) to consumers' food, motor, pet shows, popular concerts and family entertainment.
Shows here see millions in trade done, and also bring global business visitors, and local and regional consumers into the venue.Singapore's strategic location, super infrastructure, world connectivity, fascinating tourist elements make this island the top choice for both business and leisure.
Singapore Expo also allows shows to expand seamlessly. The 10 multipurpose halls are 10,000sqm each, totaling 100,000sqm designed to suit exhibitions, conventions/meetings, banquets and performances. All halls are ground level, interlinked, pillarless, featuring 3.5G broadband.
The variety of events range from outdoor stunts in BikeAsia2008, to massive cooking and hospitality demo sets in FoodnHotelAsia2008, to apparel machinery in JIAM2008, and latest infocomm in CommunicAsia2008, to Conventions like Science of Happiness, Herbalife (17,000 delegates) to consumers' food, motor, pet shows, popular concerts and family entertainment.
Gain Insight in to the Tourism Sector in Singapore
A current analysis of the outlook on Singapore's tourism sector for 2007. Includes insight to its Airline and hotel lodging industries, as well as the tourism impact of its upcoming Integrated Resorts.
Singapore is a tiny bustling city-state of approximately 4.4 million people, with a highly developed economy, urban environment and multicultural society. In 2006, Singapore attracted 9.7 million international visitors - a 9% annual growth over 2005 figures - and received S$12.4 billion (approximately US$8.1 billion) in tourist receipts.
The author believes the island city could see substantial growth in tourism arrivals and tourist dollar revenues in calendar year 2007. We believe that the outlook for Singapore's tourism sector in the near term is positive.
The government of Singapore recently put forth a highly ambitious goal of 17 million visitor arrivals and S$30 billion (US$19.6 billion) in tourism receipts by the year 2015. The achievement of these objectives will be highly contingent upon the development of two multi-billion dollar integrated resorts - comprehensive leisure and entertainment complexes with casinos, hotel accommodation, restaurants, retail establishments, entertainment venues, convention and meetings space and other attractions
Singapore is a tiny bustling city-state of approximately 4.4 million people, with a highly developed economy, urban environment and multicultural society. In 2006, Singapore attracted 9.7 million international visitors - a 9% annual growth over 2005 figures - and received S$12.4 billion (approximately US$8.1 billion) in tourist receipts.
The author believes the island city could see substantial growth in tourism arrivals and tourist dollar revenues in calendar year 2007. We believe that the outlook for Singapore's tourism sector in the near term is positive.
The government of Singapore recently put forth a highly ambitious goal of 17 million visitor arrivals and S$30 billion (US$19.6 billion) in tourism receipts by the year 2015. The achievement of these objectives will be highly contingent upon the development of two multi-billion dollar integrated resorts - comprehensive leisure and entertainment complexes with casinos, hotel accommodation, restaurants, retail establishments, entertainment venues, convention and meetings space and other attractions
Monday, June 16, 2008
Positioning Singapore as a constantly reinventing destination
Singapore is well known as a tourist destination. So, is it still necessary to work towards the promotion of the place?
When posed this question, Mr Kiran Bhandari, Area Director - Southern India, Sri Lanka & Maldives, Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Chennai, agrees that Singapore has been enjoying top-of-mind recall as a tourist destination. "However, as a destination, we are constantly reinventing," he adds, during a recent lunch-hour interaction at Business Line. "We continue to evolve and transform. As such, our role, then, is to bring out the different facets of Singapore as we aim to maintain our top-of-mind awareness amongst our target audience."
An example of this would be the new 'Uniquely Singapore Weekends' campaign that STB rolled out in Chennai last year, mentions Mr Bhandari. "While everyone knows about the great family experiences that Singapore offers, not many are aware of the extensive lifestyle experiences on offer in Singapore: right from high-quality clubbing, to numerous eateries which serve cuisines from across the world," he explains.
"Add to that the many world-class concerts and shows that come to Singapore. In addition, between Chennai and Singapore there are currently 49 flights a week – which results in greater variety of airfare options between the two cities!
When posed this question, Mr Kiran Bhandari, Area Director - Southern India, Sri Lanka & Maldives, Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Chennai, agrees that Singapore has been enjoying top-of-mind recall as a tourist destination. "However, as a destination, we are constantly reinventing," he adds, during a recent lunch-hour interaction at Business Line. "We continue to evolve and transform. As such, our role, then, is to bring out the different facets of Singapore as we aim to maintain our top-of-mind awareness amongst our target audience."
An example of this would be the new 'Uniquely Singapore Weekends' campaign that STB rolled out in Chennai last year, mentions Mr Bhandari. "While everyone knows about the great family experiences that Singapore offers, not many are aware of the extensive lifestyle experiences on offer in Singapore: right from high-quality clubbing, to numerous eateries which serve cuisines from across the world," he explains.
"Add to that the many world-class concerts and shows that come to Singapore. In addition, between Chennai and Singapore there are currently 49 flights a week – which results in greater variety of airfare options between the two cities!
Americans flocking eastern metropolis
Americans constituted the bulk of 1,26,543 foreign tourists visiting the city of joy last year, according to the Regional Tourist office here.
Americans constituted around 20,971 or 16.57 per cent of the total visitors. They were closely followed by the British, who constituted around 19,124 or 15.11 per cent of the total foreign tourists.
The third largest group of foreigners was from Japan. A total of 6799 Japanese tourists came here in 2007.
The other tourists were from countries like Australia, Nepal, Thailand, Canada, Germany, China, South Korea, Singapore, Bhutan, France, Myanmar, Italy, Spain, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Ireland, Switzerland, Taiwan and Sweden, besides others.
In 2006, 98,307 foreign tourists came on a visit of which Americans constituted around 17408 or 17.71 per cent of the total tourists. The British were the second largest group consisting of 16,706 people or 16.99 per cent of the total.
Americans constituted around 20,971 or 16.57 per cent of the total visitors. They were closely followed by the British, who constituted around 19,124 or 15.11 per cent of the total foreign tourists.
The third largest group of foreigners was from Japan. A total of 6799 Japanese tourists came here in 2007.
The other tourists were from countries like Australia, Nepal, Thailand, Canada, Germany, China, South Korea, Singapore, Bhutan, France, Myanmar, Italy, Spain, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Ireland, Switzerland, Taiwan and Sweden, besides others.
In 2006, 98,307 foreign tourists came on a visit of which Americans constituted around 17408 or 17.71 per cent of the total tourists. The British were the second largest group consisting of 16,706 people or 16.99 per cent of the total.
Monday, June 9, 2008
`India witnessing high growth in tourism’
India is attracting more foreign travellers and is witnessing a consistently high growth in the tourism sector for the past three years, the Rajya Sabha was informed Tuesday. Minister of Tourism Ambika Soni, however, said Singapore received more tourists than India last year.
Quoting the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), she said there were about 7.59 million international tourist arrivals in Singapore in 2006 as compared to 4.45 million foreign tourist arrivals in India.
Last year, an estimated five million tourists visited the country, as compared to 4.45 million in 2006 and 3.92 million in 2005.
"India has been achieving consistently a high growth rate of 13.3 percent, 13.5 percent and 12.4 percent in foreign tourist arrivals in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively," she said.
She said some of the important steps being taken to attract more foreign tourists in India include the integrated development of tourism infrastructure at tourist circuits and destinations, growth of hotel infrastructure particularly budget hotels and augmentation of air capacity.
The plan is to enhance availability of skilled manpower, according greater focus in emerging markets particularly in the regions of China, North-East Asia and South-East Asia.
Soni said no specific incentives have been provided to the tourists of any country, but the facility of long-term multiple entry tourist visas of five year duration has been introduced for the nationals of 18 countries.
These countries are France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, Spain, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Vietnam.
Quoting the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), she said there were about 7.59 million international tourist arrivals in Singapore in 2006 as compared to 4.45 million foreign tourist arrivals in India.
Last year, an estimated five million tourists visited the country, as compared to 4.45 million in 2006 and 3.92 million in 2005.
"India has been achieving consistently a high growth rate of 13.3 percent, 13.5 percent and 12.4 percent in foreign tourist arrivals in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively," she said.
She said some of the important steps being taken to attract more foreign tourists in India include the integrated development of tourism infrastructure at tourist circuits and destinations, growth of hotel infrastructure particularly budget hotels and augmentation of air capacity.
The plan is to enhance availability of skilled manpower, according greater focus in emerging markets particularly in the regions of China, North-East Asia and South-East Asia.
Soni said no specific incentives have been provided to the tourists of any country, but the facility of long-term multiple entry tourist visas of five year duration has been introduced for the nationals of 18 countries.
These countries are France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, Spain, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Vietnam.
MPC to develop RM1.5bil expo centre
SINGAPORE: Malaysia Pacific Corp Bhd (MPC) will be developing the Asia-Pacific Trade & Expo City (APTEC), billed as the largest trade, exposition and distribution centre in the region at its flagship RM6.3bil Lakehill Resort City, in Johor.
Costing RM1.2bil to RM1.5bil, APTEC will have a four million sq ft complex on 23.5 acres and will be the anchor and key attraction for the proposed freehold Lakehill Resort City near the Port of Pasir Gudang.It will comprise a permanent global trade and expo centre showcasing wholesale consumer products, a shopping mall, two serviced apartment towers, a three-star hotel and office suites.
MPC chief executive officer Bill Ch'ng said APTEC would serve as a catalyst in the development of Iskandar Malaysia into a regional and distribution hub, targeting Asia-Pacific's population of 800 million.
"We aim to recreate in Malaysia a success story even better than that of Shenzhen-Hong Kong, with a similar strategic partnership for Iskandar Malaysia-Singapore synergy," he said at Cityscape Asia 2008 on Monday.
This was the first time that MPC showcased the 484-acre Lakehill Resort City (part of MPCB's 905-acre Nusa Damai at the eastern zone of Iskandar Malaysia) to the foreign investment and property market at the three-day business-to-business real estate exhibition.
Ch'ng said Iskandar Malaysia and Singapore had the potential to forge the same synergistic advantage as "Shenzhen and Hong Kong", which achieved economic success under their partnership arrangement.
APTEC is to generate over 50,000 direct jobs and more than 200,000 indirect employment opportunities in the supporting services and businesses, such as new products, manufacturing, financial services, banking and logistics.
"We are confident APTEC will be a platform for greater regional collaboration between Asean countries. It will also boost the influx of domestic and foreign investments into Iskandar Malaysia, thus bringing greater socio-economic benefits to Iskandar Malaysia and Singapore," Ch'ng said, adding that some parties had expressed interest in taking direct equities in Lakehill Resort City and APTEC.
Costing RM1.2bil to RM1.5bil, APTEC will have a four million sq ft complex on 23.5 acres and will be the anchor and key attraction for the proposed freehold Lakehill Resort City near the Port of Pasir Gudang.It will comprise a permanent global trade and expo centre showcasing wholesale consumer products, a shopping mall, two serviced apartment towers, a three-star hotel and office suites.
MPC chief executive officer Bill Ch'ng said APTEC would serve as a catalyst in the development of Iskandar Malaysia into a regional and distribution hub, targeting Asia-Pacific's population of 800 million.
"We aim to recreate in Malaysia a success story even better than that of Shenzhen-Hong Kong, with a similar strategic partnership for Iskandar Malaysia-Singapore synergy," he said at Cityscape Asia 2008 on Monday.
This was the first time that MPC showcased the 484-acre Lakehill Resort City (part of MPCB's 905-acre Nusa Damai at the eastern zone of Iskandar Malaysia) to the foreign investment and property market at the three-day business-to-business real estate exhibition.
Ch'ng said Iskandar Malaysia and Singapore had the potential to forge the same synergistic advantage as "Shenzhen and Hong Kong", which achieved economic success under their partnership arrangement.
APTEC is to generate over 50,000 direct jobs and more than 200,000 indirect employment opportunities in the supporting services and businesses, such as new products, manufacturing, financial services, banking and logistics.
"We are confident APTEC will be a platform for greater regional collaboration between Asean countries. It will also boost the influx of domestic and foreign investments into Iskandar Malaysia, thus bringing greater socio-economic benefits to Iskandar Malaysia and Singapore," Ch'ng said, adding that some parties had expressed interest in taking direct equities in Lakehill Resort City and APTEC.
Monday, June 2, 2008
BikeAsia 2008 stunts and Sophia Loren thrill all at Singapore Expo - home of renowned international trade exhibitions and conventions
Singapore Expo Convention and Exhibition Centre welcomes BikeAsia 2008, the first international trade show in Singapore dedicated to bicycles, motorcycles, accessories and components. With Italian screen idol Ms Sophia Loren gracing the opening ceremony together with Minister of State for Trade & Industry Mr Lee Yi Shyan, all eyes were on the beautiful Ms Sophia Loren as she cut the ribbon this morning, with the VIP group also including Mr Roberto Fabbri, MD of BikeAsia, and Dr G. Guidi, President of EICMA and ANCMA, organiser of the world's largest two wheeler show, Milan Motorcycle Show.
Italian stunt master Sergio Canobbio mesmerised visitors with his motorbike stunts on a complicated obstacle arrangement. Live motorbike and bicycle performances will be held throughout this 4-day event. Taking the largest booth is Piaggio Asia while Ducati showcased its latest models, with Cannondale presenting their never-seen-before products. Other highlights include Singapore BikeAsia Mountain Bike Cross Country Marathon 100-km Race starring endurance specialist Tinker Juarez, reigning US champion and Olympian.
Such is the range of activities and events at Singapore's largest exhibition and convention centre – Singapore Expo, the venue for many successful trade exhibitions, conventions, meetings, and special events.
Shows here see millions in trade done, and also bring global business visitors, and local and regional consumers into the venue. Singapore's strategic location, world class infrastructure, connectivity, and fascinating tourist elements make this island the top choice for both business and leisure.
With such an environment for business success, Singapore Expo also allows shows to expand seamlessly. The 10 multipurpose halls are 10,000sqm each, totaling 100,000sqm designed to suit exhibitions, conventions/meetings, banquets and performances. All halls are ground level, interlinked, pillarless, featuring wireless and fastest 3.5G broadband technology and highly sophisticated projection, visual, video, sound, lighting and special effects systems. Said Mr Keith Oliver, General Manager of Singapore Expo, "With such a great venue, our clients have everything they require in the latest venue services and facilities. They can fully concentrate on making their show a success. Singapore Expo can accommodate the expansion and growth of events due to the flexibility of space usage here."
The variety of events range from outdoor stunts in BikeAsia 2008, to cooking and hospitality demo sets in Food and Hotel Asia 2008, to apparel machinery in JIAM 2008, and latest infocomm in CommunicAsia 2008, to Conventions like Science of Happiness, Herbalife (17,000 delegates) to consumers' food, motor, retail shows, popular concerts and family entertainment.
Italian stunt master Sergio Canobbio mesmerised visitors with his motorbike stunts on a complicated obstacle arrangement. Live motorbike and bicycle performances will be held throughout this 4-day event. Taking the largest booth is Piaggio Asia while Ducati showcased its latest models, with Cannondale presenting their never-seen-before products. Other highlights include Singapore BikeAsia Mountain Bike Cross Country Marathon 100-km Race starring endurance specialist Tinker Juarez, reigning US champion and Olympian.
Such is the range of activities and events at Singapore's largest exhibition and convention centre – Singapore Expo, the venue for many successful trade exhibitions, conventions, meetings, and special events.
Shows here see millions in trade done, and also bring global business visitors, and local and regional consumers into the venue. Singapore's strategic location, world class infrastructure, connectivity, and fascinating tourist elements make this island the top choice for both business and leisure.
With such an environment for business success, Singapore Expo also allows shows to expand seamlessly. The 10 multipurpose halls are 10,000sqm each, totaling 100,000sqm designed to suit exhibitions, conventions/meetings, banquets and performances. All halls are ground level, interlinked, pillarless, featuring wireless and fastest 3.5G broadband technology and highly sophisticated projection, visual, video, sound, lighting and special effects systems. Said Mr Keith Oliver, General Manager of Singapore Expo, "With such a great venue, our clients have everything they require in the latest venue services and facilities. They can fully concentrate on making their show a success. Singapore Expo can accommodate the expansion and growth of events due to the flexibility of space usage here."
The variety of events range from outdoor stunts in BikeAsia 2008, to cooking and hospitality demo sets in Food and Hotel Asia 2008, to apparel machinery in JIAM 2008, and latest infocomm in CommunicAsia 2008, to Conventions like Science of Happiness, Herbalife (17,000 delegates) to consumers' food, motor, retail shows, popular concerts and family entertainment.
Rock with Mayday
Get ready to rock with renowned Taiwanese band Mayday (pic) at Genting – City of Entertainment on April 19 at 8pm.
The rock band was formed in 1998 and has five members – lead singer Ashin, guitarist / band leader Monster, guitarist Stone, bass player Masa and drummer Guanyou.
In 1999, the band released a single, Peter and Mary, and soon became a hit in Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia.
The rock band was formed in 1998 and has five members – lead singer Ashin, guitarist / band leader Monster, guitarist Stone, bass player Masa and drummer Guanyou.
In 1999, the band released a single, Peter and Mary, and soon became a hit in Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia.
Monday, May 26, 2008
McPhee says ‘goodbye’ to Symphony by the Sea
After seven years of great music and community involvement, Jonathan McPhee is saying "goodbye" to Symphony by the Sea at the conclusion of its 27th season. McPhee will conduct two performances featuring cellist Wendy Law. Each concert will be followed by a champagne reception for audiences to extend best wishes to McPhee. All audience members invited.
The concerts and receptions will take place Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m. at the Old North Church in Marblehead, and again at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 at the Governor's Academy in Byfield. Tickets for both performances are available online, by calling Symphony by the Sea at 978-745-4955, or at the following ticket locations: Arnould Gallery, 111 Washington St., and Comina, 12 Atlantic Ave. in Marblehead; Ted Cole's Music, 30 Church St. in Salem; Borders Books, Route 114, Peabody; The Book Rack, 52 State St., Newburyport. Tickets are $30.
Cellist Law has appeared as soloist with renowned orchestra including the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Singapore Symphony, Hong Kong Sinfonietta, Russian Philharmonic and Juilliard Orchestra. She has performed throughout North America, appearing in such venues as Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall and Alice Tully Hall, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and Jordan Hall, Boston.
The opening work will be the overture to Mendelssohn's "Son and Stranger," a work written to mark the silver wedding anniversary of Felix Mendelssohn's parents. To brighten the occasion, 20-year-old Felix decided to write a piece of music in their honor, a one-act "liederspiel" (a musical skit mingling spoken lines with songs).
The concert's second piece is Mozart's "Linz Symphony." On the morning of Oct. 31, 1783, Mozart and his wife Constanze arrived in Linz on their way back to Vienna from Salzburg, where they had just spent three months with Leopold, Mozart's father, trying with little success to soften his disapproval of their marriage. Passing through Linz, they were hosted by a certain Count Thun, an ardent lover of Mozart's music. The count invited the couple to stay at his castle, extracting from Mozart the promise that in four days he would conduct the count's orchestra in an all-Mozart concert.
On the evening of the 31st, Mozart wrote to his father, "Because I have not a single symphony with me, I am working at breakneck speed on a new one, which must be ready by Nov. 4." Mozart made his deadline, and the performance came off on schedule.
The concert's third selection is Béla Bartók's "Romanian Folk Dances." Béla Bartók was considered by many to be a musical ethnologist. Béla Bartók was passionately interested in the folk music not only of his native Hungary but of all the Balkan countries as well. The six short "Romanian Folk Dances" were published in 1915.
The concert's final piece features Law in Tchaikovsky's "Rococo Variations." Composed in 1876, a few months before the "Fourth Symphony," Tchaikovsky's "Opus 33" is an attractive, melodic virtuoso piece that stands today as a staple of the cello repertoire.
The concerts and receptions will take place Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m. at the Old North Church in Marblehead, and again at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 at the Governor's Academy in Byfield. Tickets for both performances are available online, by calling Symphony by the Sea at 978-745-4955, or at the following ticket locations: Arnould Gallery, 111 Washington St., and Comina, 12 Atlantic Ave. in Marblehead; Ted Cole's Music, 30 Church St. in Salem; Borders Books, Route 114, Peabody; The Book Rack, 52 State St., Newburyport. Tickets are $30.
Cellist Law has appeared as soloist with renowned orchestra including the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Singapore Symphony, Hong Kong Sinfonietta, Russian Philharmonic and Juilliard Orchestra. She has performed throughout North America, appearing in such venues as Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall and Alice Tully Hall, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and Jordan Hall, Boston.
The opening work will be the overture to Mendelssohn's "Son and Stranger," a work written to mark the silver wedding anniversary of Felix Mendelssohn's parents. To brighten the occasion, 20-year-old Felix decided to write a piece of music in their honor, a one-act "liederspiel" (a musical skit mingling spoken lines with songs).
The concert's second piece is Mozart's "Linz Symphony." On the morning of Oct. 31, 1783, Mozart and his wife Constanze arrived in Linz on their way back to Vienna from Salzburg, where they had just spent three months with Leopold, Mozart's father, trying with little success to soften his disapproval of their marriage. Passing through Linz, they were hosted by a certain Count Thun, an ardent lover of Mozart's music. The count invited the couple to stay at his castle, extracting from Mozart the promise that in four days he would conduct the count's orchestra in an all-Mozart concert.
On the evening of the 31st, Mozart wrote to his father, "Because I have not a single symphony with me, I am working at breakneck speed on a new one, which must be ready by Nov. 4." Mozart made his deadline, and the performance came off on schedule.
The concert's third selection is Béla Bartók's "Romanian Folk Dances." Béla Bartók was considered by many to be a musical ethnologist. Béla Bartók was passionately interested in the folk music not only of his native Hungary but of all the Balkan countries as well. The six short "Romanian Folk Dances" were published in 1915.
The concert's final piece features Law in Tchaikovsky's "Rococo Variations." Composed in 1876, a few months before the "Fourth Symphony," Tchaikovsky's "Opus 33" is an attractive, melodic virtuoso piece that stands today as a staple of the cello repertoire.
John in Singapore
AFTER the much-hyped The Police gig drew a bumper crowd and smashed box-office records in Singapore in February, another big name hits the island nation.On May 7, legendary Sir Elton John and his band will play in Singapore as part of The Rocket Man tour at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Regional promoter Live Nation presents the concert and tickets will go on sale tomorrow.
The flamboyant John will be performing with his long-time band, Davey Johnstone (guitars, mandolin, vocals), Guy Babylon (keyboards), Robert Birch (bass, vocals), John Mahon (percussion, drums, vocals) and Nigel Olsson (drums, vocals).
The extraordinary career of John has spanned more than three decades and he has sold more than 200 million records worldwide, making him one of the most popular British artistes of all time.
On this tour, John heads out on the "greatest hits" spin around the globe and his numerous classics include Your Song, Rocket Man, Crocodile Rock, Daniel, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Candle in the Wind, Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, Philadelphia Freedom, Tiny Dancer and Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word.
The release of Rocket Man compilation last year also marked a huge anniversary for John – on March 25, 2007, he celebrated his 60th birthday while breaking his own record with an unmatched 60th concert at the legendary Madison Square Garden in New York. No other entertainer has come close to matching this record.
The superstar has also won numerous awards which include the best British male artiste Brit award 1991, inducted into Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame (1994), five Grammy awards (1986-2000), Grammy Legend award (2001), and 11 Ivor Novello awards (1973-2000). John's The Rocket Man tour starts at 8pm on May 7 at Singapore Indoor Stadium.
The flamboyant John will be performing with his long-time band, Davey Johnstone (guitars, mandolin, vocals), Guy Babylon (keyboards), Robert Birch (bass, vocals), John Mahon (percussion, drums, vocals) and Nigel Olsson (drums, vocals).
The extraordinary career of John has spanned more than three decades and he has sold more than 200 million records worldwide, making him one of the most popular British artistes of all time.
On this tour, John heads out on the "greatest hits" spin around the globe and his numerous classics include Your Song, Rocket Man, Crocodile Rock, Daniel, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Candle in the Wind, Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, Philadelphia Freedom, Tiny Dancer and Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word.
The release of Rocket Man compilation last year also marked a huge anniversary for John – on March 25, 2007, he celebrated his 60th birthday while breaking his own record with an unmatched 60th concert at the legendary Madison Square Garden in New York. No other entertainer has come close to matching this record.
The superstar has also won numerous awards which include the best British male artiste Brit award 1991, inducted into Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame (1994), five Grammy awards (1986-2000), Grammy Legend award (2001), and 11 Ivor Novello awards (1973-2000). John's The Rocket Man tour starts at 8pm on May 7 at Singapore Indoor Stadium.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
The next big Gang
SOUTHEAST Asia’s main talent search series Gang Starz returns to TV3 on April 27.
Gang Starz 2 will see its “live†weekly concerts begin on May 11 for 13 consecutive weeks.
This time, Singapore, the Philippines and Thailand join Malaysia and Indonesia in the regional race to crown the most outstanding new ASEAN pop band.
The first season of Gang Starz last year saw Indonesian R&B trio The Lima comprising Arif, Bony and Tora emerge as champions.
Media Prima Bhd Television Networks chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farid Ridzuan said that while the process for determining the winners remained the same as last year â€" 50 per cent based on professional judges’ marks and the remaining half based on Malaysian viewers’ Short Messaging Service (SMS) votes â€" judging standards were more stringent in the new season.
He added the competition is getting stiffer as Thai, Filipino and Singaporean singers are in the race for the grand prize (RM100,000 and a recording contract).
Rocker Faizal Tahir, whose three-month suspension from live concert performances (because of a chest-baring stunt on 8TV in January) ended last Tuesday, returns as the talent search’s host.
However, co-host Putri Andreanna Syigim Mohamad Razalli has been replaced by her fellow Hot FM presenter Fara Fauzana Mohd Fadzil, the reigning Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian Popular Female Television Presenter.
Another Hot FM presenter, Kartini Kamalul Ariffin, who is also the co-host of women’s issues series 3R, joins as a third co-host.
Farid said the show would be divided into four slots namely, the Gang Starz Concert at 9pm on Sundays, Aksi Gang Starz at 5.30pm on Sundays, Blog Gang Starz at 7.28pm Mondays to Fridays and Teropong Gang Starz at 8.30am Mondays to Fridays.
The weekly concert will see the group which obtains the lowest marks eliminated, while 30-minute Aksi features the challenges faced by the contestants in preparation for the concert.
Blog, which runs for 20 minutes, features the contestants’ daily activities Teropong features the latest updates on the show.
Web surfers may get more updates on the show in the blog, SuperStarBabe and they may join the Gang Starz group on Facebook and www.gua.com.my.
Faizal and Fara will co-host the concert while Kartini (or Tini) will present Aksi.
The permanent jury comprises singer and composer Mohd Faizal Maas or Ajai and Singaporean hip-hopper, actor and television personality Sheikh Haikel, while the team of advisers which guides participants comprises composer and lyricist Azhar Abu Bakar or Azmeer, singer Damien Seet of V. E. and choreographer Sazlan Mat Adnan.
Azmeer and Damien coach the contestants in their vocals and performances while Sazlan takes care of their choreography.
The other advisers are Helen Yap (music director), Hanizam Abdullah (communications), Dr Fazley Yaakob (motivation adviser) and Faizal Hamid.
Farid said auditions were held nationwide for two months beginning January in George Town, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur, as well as in the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore.
A total of 12 groups are participating in the contest. They are Malaysia’s One Nation Emcees, Akasia and South Trio, Indonesia’s 3 Voices, D’Reborn and D’Raz, Singapore’s Brown Tone and Faith, the Philippines’s Paragon Child and 3.5 and Thailand’s PZG and Step.
“The programme’s popularity has been proven since it attracted more than 18,000 supporters at its first season’s finals in Stadium Malawati in Shah Alam,†said Farid, adding that the finals also became one of TV3’s top 20 programmes for 2007.
Gang Starz was also shortlisted for the Asian Television Awards in Singapore last year.
Farid said Gang Starz 2 would also be screened in the Philippines, in delayed telecasts.
“The groups from our neighbouring countries will spend four months in Malaysia preparing for and participating in the show.â€
Yap said she was confident that the second season of Gang Starz would be more entertaining and exciting as the participation of singers from Thailand and the Philippines would inject greater musical diversity.
Sheikh Haikel said the entry of Thai and Filipino singers would help ASEAN music enthusiasts share ideas on improving their respective music industries and boost performance standards in each participating country.
Faizal said he was happy to return as the show’s host as he was passionate about helping discover the next big regional act.
“There is an immense pool of raw talent in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Singapore. Gang Starz will give the local and regional music industry world-class acts,†he said.
Monday, May 19, 2008
First solo concert for Sabah-born
KUALA LUMPUR: He may be making waves in Taiwan right now, but for singer Gary Chaw Ge, he only had one destination in mind for his first-ever major solo concert â€" Malaysia.
The 29-year Sabah-born Chaw will kick off his upcoming five-stop Gary Chaw Asia Live 2008 concert tour at the Putra Indoor Stadium in Bukit Jalil on June 28, with the remaining stops being Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China.
Announcing the news during a video conference from Taipei yesterday, Chaw said that there was never a doubt in his mind that his debut concert would be anywhere else but Malaysia, despite the fact that many of his peers had opted to hold their solo concerts either in Hong Kong or Taipei first.“I’m a Malaysian, and it’s always been my dream to hold my debut concert in Malaysia. To me, it doesn’t make sense to hold the concert anywhere else,†he said.
Although he was reluctant to reveal details about the concert, he did say that it would be produced by a top producer from Hong Kong and would also feature a guest artiste performance.
Chaw released his debut album Blue in 2006, and has since proven to be one of the most popular Malaysian male artistes based overseas, releasing two more albums including his latest, Super Sunshine earlier this year.
Last year, he was chosen to perform in a show commemorating the tenth anniversary return of Hong Kong to China, the only Malaysian to perform at the show.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Grand-Flo enters Vietnam tracking solutions industry
KUALA LUMPUR: Grand-Flo Solution Bhd has established a presence in Vietnam, with its Thai-listed associate Simat Technologies Public Company Ltd acquiring a 40% stake each in Sino Company Ltd, a tracking solutions provider, and High Rich Trading & Service Company Ltd, a barcode labels manufacturer, for a total of RM2.4 million cash.
In a statement yesterday, Grand-Flo said the acquisition marked the group's fourth direct presence in the Southeast Asian region after Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore. Simat is a 36.75% associated company of Grand-Flo.
Grand-Flo, an integrated tracking solutions provider, signed the sale and purchase agreement in Bangkok yesterday. Signing on behalf of Simat was its chief executive officer Thongkam Manasilapapan, while Nguyen Quyet Thang, president of Sino and High Rich, signed on behalf of the acquired companies.
Grand-Flo's group president and managing director Derrick Tan said: "There is a growing demand for tracking solutions in the country. Among the main factors driving this growth is the increasing inflow of foreign direct investment into Vietnam, backed by more multinational companies setting up their facilities there."
"More noteworthy, too is that Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative manufacturing hub to China. This is evident from the increasing number of customer requests through our local clientele to provide tracking solutions in Vietnam," he added.
Tan said the foreign direct investment inflow for Vietnam, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investment of Vietnam, was expected to reach US$14.5 billion (RM46.4 billion) in 2008, growing 11.5% from last year's estimated US$13 billion.
"This acquisition enables us to not only leverage on the acquired companies' knowledge of the Vietnam tracking solutions industry but also tap into their distribution channel, ensuring an instantaneous entry into the Vietnamese market at a low entry cost. With this acquisition, we are a step closer towards becoming a truly regional player," Tan said.
Under the agreement, Sino and High Rich will provide a combined profit guarantee of about RM2.2 million over two years. Tan said with a total valuation of about RM6 million for both companies, it worked out to an earnings multiple of about 5.5 times.
He added that the acquisition would be financed by Simat's internal funds, which will be paid in three tranches within two years.
Thang said "This partnership with a reputable entity like Grand-Flo is certainly a significant development for us, as we stand to gain from the technological knowhow of the parent company, giving us the competitive edge over the other local tracking solution players."
"Traditionally, we have been strong in the manufacturing sector. With the partnership, we will be able to tap into the group's wider regional customer base in other industries such as electronics and FMCGs (fast moving consumer goods), and more importantly their broader product offerings."
In a statement yesterday, Grand-Flo said the acquisition marked the group's fourth direct presence in the Southeast Asian region after Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore. Simat is a 36.75% associated company of Grand-Flo.
Grand-Flo, an integrated tracking solutions provider, signed the sale and purchase agreement in Bangkok yesterday. Signing on behalf of Simat was its chief executive officer Thongkam Manasilapapan, while Nguyen Quyet Thang, president of Sino and High Rich, signed on behalf of the acquired companies.
Grand-Flo's group president and managing director Derrick Tan said: "There is a growing demand for tracking solutions in the country. Among the main factors driving this growth is the increasing inflow of foreign direct investment into Vietnam, backed by more multinational companies setting up their facilities there."
"More noteworthy, too is that Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative manufacturing hub to China. This is evident from the increasing number of customer requests through our local clientele to provide tracking solutions in Vietnam," he added.
Tan said the foreign direct investment inflow for Vietnam, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investment of Vietnam, was expected to reach US$14.5 billion (RM46.4 billion) in 2008, growing 11.5% from last year's estimated US$13 billion.
"This acquisition enables us to not only leverage on the acquired companies' knowledge of the Vietnam tracking solutions industry but also tap into their distribution channel, ensuring an instantaneous entry into the Vietnamese market at a low entry cost. With this acquisition, we are a step closer towards becoming a truly regional player," Tan said.
Under the agreement, Sino and High Rich will provide a combined profit guarantee of about RM2.2 million over two years. Tan said with a total valuation of about RM6 million for both companies, it worked out to an earnings multiple of about 5.5 times.
He added that the acquisition would be financed by Simat's internal funds, which will be paid in three tranches within two years.
Thang said "This partnership with a reputable entity like Grand-Flo is certainly a significant development for us, as we stand to gain from the technological knowhow of the parent company, giving us the competitive edge over the other local tracking solution players."
"Traditionally, we have been strong in the manufacturing sector. With the partnership, we will be able to tap into the group's wider regional customer base in other industries such as electronics and FMCGs (fast moving consumer goods), and more importantly their broader product offerings."
Saturday, May 17, 2008
The 2008 Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival
On the heels of the success of the 2008 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival, founder and director Lee Brian Schrager and Southern Wine & Spirits of New York are pleased to announce the inaugural Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Food & Wine magazine. The festival will take place this Columbus Day weekend, Friday, October 10th – Sunday, October 12th, in New York City's legendary Meatpacking District and will benefit the hunger-relief programs Food Bank for New York City and Share our Strength.
Since its inception eight years ago, the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival has become one of the most prominent events in the country featuring the biggest and brightest names in the food and beverage industry. Its tremendous success rests upon the close working relationship with members of the South Beach community and local business owners. This year's festival raised close to two million dollars for Florida International University's School of Hospitality and its Southern Wine & Spirits Beverage Management Center.
"Creating a sister event to South Beach in one of the greatest food cities in the world is such a rewarding endeavor. New York is home to some of the most celebrated chefs, many of whom have participated in South Beach. The Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival is an opportunity to recognize this contribution and pay homage to the city of New York," explains Schrager of Southern Wine & Spirits. "The Meatpacking District holds such great history. It also features some of the most fashionable boutiques, celebrity chef restaurants and exciting nightlife. As the festival evolves, we seek to continue and foster relationships with neighborhood businesses as well as important community-based organizations such as Friends of the High Line."
The weekend kicks-off Friday evening with Meatpacking Uncorked, a neighborhood block party featuring the area's great restaurants, retailers and live entertainment. On Saturday and Sunday, guests can sample delicacies from their favorite New York City restaurants as well as wines and spirits at the Grand Tasting on Pier 54. In addition, culinary demonstrations, wine seminars, book signings and opportunities to meet renowned food personalities will take place throughout the neighborhood. Building upon the success of 2007, the festival will also include the tradition of SWEET presented by Ferrero Rocher on Saturday night which showcases delicious creations by select Food Network stars and New York City's pastry chefs, chocolatiers, bakers, confectioners and cheese makers.
David Rabin, President of the Meatpacking District Initiative (MPDI) concurs, "When we began MPDI 5 years ago, we hoped that one day we'd grow into an organization that could work on projects like this festival...we are thrilled to be working with Lee Schrager and believe that the MPDI is the quintessential 24/7 NY neighborhood to play host to this event."
Since its inception eight years ago, the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival has become one of the most prominent events in the country featuring the biggest and brightest names in the food and beverage industry. Its tremendous success rests upon the close working relationship with members of the South Beach community and local business owners. This year's festival raised close to two million dollars for Florida International University's School of Hospitality and its Southern Wine & Spirits Beverage Management Center.
"Creating a sister event to South Beach in one of the greatest food cities in the world is such a rewarding endeavor. New York is home to some of the most celebrated chefs, many of whom have participated in South Beach. The Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival is an opportunity to recognize this contribution and pay homage to the city of New York," explains Schrager of Southern Wine & Spirits. "The Meatpacking District holds such great history. It also features some of the most fashionable boutiques, celebrity chef restaurants and exciting nightlife. As the festival evolves, we seek to continue and foster relationships with neighborhood businesses as well as important community-based organizations such as Friends of the High Line."
The weekend kicks-off Friday evening with Meatpacking Uncorked, a neighborhood block party featuring the area's great restaurants, retailers and live entertainment. On Saturday and Sunday, guests can sample delicacies from their favorite New York City restaurants as well as wines and spirits at the Grand Tasting on Pier 54. In addition, culinary demonstrations, wine seminars, book signings and opportunities to meet renowned food personalities will take place throughout the neighborhood. Building upon the success of 2007, the festival will also include the tradition of SWEET presented by Ferrero Rocher on Saturday night which showcases delicious creations by select Food Network stars and New York City's pastry chefs, chocolatiers, bakers, confectioners and cheese makers.
David Rabin, President of the Meatpacking District Initiative (MPDI) concurs, "When we began MPDI 5 years ago, we hoped that one day we'd grow into an organization that could work on projects like this festival...we are thrilled to be working with Lee Schrager and believe that the MPDI is the quintessential 24/7 NY neighborhood to play host to this event."
Friday, May 16, 2008
MagicBricks.com's Grand Success at the Jaipur Property Bazaar
The Jaipur Property Bazaar'08, an exclusive property fair by MagicBricks.com – India's No. 1 Real Estate Portal, was held at the Birla Auditorium, Jaipur on 15 -16 of March 2008. Over 30 projects were showcased by more than 10 of the major developers, builders, and real estate agents participating at the event.
The exhibition had something for everyone of the thousands of visitors –real estate projects both ready and under construction, residential and commercial properties were on offer all under one roof.
A very pleased Mr. Anand Kumar a businessman from Jaipur said, "There were lots of property options on display at the MagicBricks.com Jaipur Property Show, and for individual buyers like us it was a wonderful opportunity to evaluate different options all under one roof before buying our dream home."
"I found it a good idea, MagicBricks.com has a developed a great concept with this property show inviting all property seekers and sellers to come and meet face to face, it really helps. All in all a MagicBricks.com put together a good show." added Mr. Rajat Shekhawat, another property seeker at the event.
Reputed names that participated at the event included market leaders like BDI Group, My Liberty Homes, Yaduvanshi Developers, Jain Realtors, Tivoli Holiday Village, Gold Dreams Builders & Developers, Ansal API, Homz 'R' US, Octagon, Dream City Projects amongst others.
Speaking about the event, Mr. Padm Vijayvergiya, G.M Marketing, BDI GROUP said, "The Property Bazaars organized by MagicBricks.com have always been very successful events and, we received a good response from property seekers. The recent Property Bazaars where we participated, covering North India, were professionally managed, well-organised events. We look forward to continuing and developing our rapport with MagicBricks.com and participating in the future events as well."
Mr. Aditya Choudhary, Managing Director, Utopia Buildcon remarked, "The property bazaar organized by MagicBricks.com was a very successful event and, builders and developers like us received good response from property seekers."
"The property fair organized by MagicBricks.com was a big successes, they brought genuine buyers with their strong media plan and excellent event management. Their event attracted many walk-ins for us. We look forward to the forthcoming fairs of MagicBricks.com across India and abroad." added Mr. Rohit Suri, CMD, My Liberty Homes.
As the city prepares to invest in the booming real-estate market, investors and individuals arrived at the fair in search of new projects, ideas and opportunities, and got what they were looking for!
The exhibition had something for everyone of the thousands of visitors –real estate projects both ready and under construction, residential and commercial properties were on offer all under one roof.
A very pleased Mr. Anand Kumar a businessman from Jaipur said, "There were lots of property options on display at the MagicBricks.com Jaipur Property Show, and for individual buyers like us it was a wonderful opportunity to evaluate different options all under one roof before buying our dream home."
"I found it a good idea, MagicBricks.com has a developed a great concept with this property show inviting all property seekers and sellers to come and meet face to face, it really helps. All in all a MagicBricks.com put together a good show." added Mr. Rajat Shekhawat, another property seeker at the event.
Reputed names that participated at the event included market leaders like BDI Group, My Liberty Homes, Yaduvanshi Developers, Jain Realtors, Tivoli Holiday Village, Gold Dreams Builders & Developers, Ansal API, Homz 'R' US, Octagon, Dream City Projects amongst others.
Speaking about the event, Mr. Padm Vijayvergiya, G.M Marketing, BDI GROUP said, "The Property Bazaars organized by MagicBricks.com have always been very successful events and, we received a good response from property seekers. The recent Property Bazaars where we participated, covering North India, were professionally managed, well-organised events. We look forward to continuing and developing our rapport with MagicBricks.com and participating in the future events as well."
Mr. Aditya Choudhary, Managing Director, Utopia Buildcon remarked, "The property bazaar organized by MagicBricks.com was a very successful event and, builders and developers like us received good response from property seekers."
"The property fair organized by MagicBricks.com was a big successes, they brought genuine buyers with their strong media plan and excellent event management. Their event attracted many walk-ins for us. We look forward to the forthcoming fairs of MagicBricks.com across India and abroad." added Mr. Rohit Suri, CMD, My Liberty Homes.
As the city prepares to invest in the booming real-estate market, investors and individuals arrived at the fair in search of new projects, ideas and opportunities, and got what they were looking for!
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