Friday, May 24, 2024

APAC Is Second Fastest Growing Market In Global Amusement Industry

KUALA LUMPUR, May 23 (Bernama) -- The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), the global association for the attractions industry, is set to host the eagerly anticipated IAAPA Expo Asia 2024 from May 27 to 30 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok, Thailand.

The amusement industry, one of the hardest hit by COVID lockdowns, border closures and restrictions, has made a strong comeback from the pandemic, recapturing an impressive 98 per cent of spending lost in 2020.

Global total spending for the industry is projected to reach nearly US$58.7 billion by end of 2024, while the Asia Pacific (APAC) amusement market is projected to increase by 67 per cent, second only to the Middle East in growth, signifying huge potential for innovation and profitability. (US$1=RM4.71)

IAAPA Expo Asia Pacific Executive Director and Vice President, Jack Chan said a primary factor contributing to the enduring popularity and growth is the universal appeal of entertainment and recreation activities.

“Amusement and theme parks are a cultural phenomenon that not only provide entertainment to millions, but also contribute significantly to the region’s and global economy,” he said.

“We live in an era where experiences are valued more than ever and consumers’ appetite and expectations for immersive entertainment are rapidly growing, so the task for industry players is to meet these challenges and stay ahead of the game – pardon the pun,” he said.

The three-day international extravaganza will see the global amusement industry converge to learn about the latest innovations and trends, as well as take a sneak peek into its exciting future, in addition to showcasing the newest technological advancements in the attractions industry from more than 300 exhibitors, according to a statement.

This year's theme, ‘Shape your evolution’ reflects the focus on education and growth. Industry experts and specialists will share insights and strategies to help attendees elevate their businesses.

Some prevailing trends and solutions which will be presented at the expo include the rise in 5D multisensory attractions that combine sight, sound, touch and even smell; innovative approaches to improving environmental impact and sustainability; demand for personalisation of guest experiences; and state-of-the-art safety and crowd/queue management technologies.

The jam-packed IAAPA Expo Asia 2024 programme also features a stellar line-up of key speakers from leading parks and entertainment venues, such as Shanghai Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, Universal Beijing Resort, Enchanted Kingdom (Philippines), Dreamworld (Australia), Studio City Macau and Ramayana Water Park.

-- BERNAMA


Tuesday, May 21, 2024

IMMERSE IN CHINESE TEA CULTURE IN CHAOYANG, BEIJING



KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 (Bernama) -- The 2024 Beijing Chaoyang International Tea Culture Festival kicked off recently at the Chaoyang Park and the Junwangfu Hotel, gathering more than 100 tea brands for tea party, tea-related poem recitals and traditional Chinese-style performances, attracting many visitors from home and abroad.

The quaint garden-style Junwangfu Hotel has been transformed into a tea culture reception hall with four distinctive areas for exhibition and display, interactive experience, immersive shopping, and new cultural experience, respectively, providing visitors with immersive tours featuring the traditional Chinese tea culture.

There were also special activities such as incense rituals, ikebana, Hanfu performances, tea-related poems, tasting tea and identifying flowers, as well as new consumption scenarios such as "Tea & Coffee Theme Salon" and "Sunset Music Party", providing opportunities for young people to meet friends over tea.

During the launch, Chaoyang released the Tea Fragrance Tour Map, highlighting the highest tea fragrance indexes in 12 business districts, including central business district (CBD), Sanlitun, Wangjing, and Shuangjing.

Although Beijing's Chaoyang District does not produce tea, it is one of the areas that sees the greatest tea consumption, with both traditional tea houses and innovative tea beverage stores ranking first in Beijing, according to a statement.

In the future, Chaoyang District will further enrich the forms of cultural consumption to support Beijing's efforts for developing itself into an international consumption centre, a "City of Tea Fragrance", and a "Garden City".

Known as "China's Number One District for Foreign Affairs", Chaoyang District is home to a number of embassies in China, international media outlets and organisations, as well as regional headquarters of multinational companies.

Additionally, global tea beverages, such as English black tea and Argentine mate tea, thrive here, and by using tea as a means of fostering friendships, Chaoyang welcomes visitors from around the world to share in the aroma and allure of tea together.

-- BERNAMA

Monday, May 20, 2024

EDITION OPENS ITS 20TH OUTPOST IN JEDDAH, REFLECTING A NEW ERA FOR THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA



The Jeddah EDITION (Photo: Business Wire)

The Jeddah EDITION (Photo: Business Wire)


JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, May 21 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- As Saudi Arabia sets its sights on creating a modern, thriving society through the goals outlined in its Vision 2030 roadmap, EDITION Hotels debuts in Jeddah, serving as a testament to this commitment of transformation. By capturing the vibrant spirit and unique character of Jeddah, EDITION Hotels is not just opening its first property in the region but introducing a category-defining concept that aligns seamlessly with the aspirations of the Kingdom’s manifesto for change.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240520435394/en/
 
The opening of The Jeddah EDITION on May 2, 2024, marks a pivotal moment; reflecting Saudi Arabia's quest for economic and societal diversification, the property is a physical representation of the country’s pledge to empower its citizens and foster growth. Jeddah, with its rich history as the gateway to Mecca and a bustling hub of trade and culture, epitomizes the essence of "Jeddah Ghair" - a city that defies convention and embraces difference. In this dynamic metropolis, where tradition meets modernity, EDITION's arrival signifies a new dawn.

As the world's perception of Saudi Arabia evolves, The Jeddah EDITION stands as a symbol of the Kingdom's journey towards a progressive future. With its multicultural ethos and innovative approach, this new addition to the EDITION family promises to redefine hospitality in the region, setting the stage for an era of growth and prosperity.

The unveiling of The Jeddah EDITION represents an exceptional collaboration between Marriott International, EDITION Hotels, and Yabu Pushelberg, uniting under the visionary leadership of Sela and its Managing Director, Dr. Rakan Al Harthi. The partnership epitomizes a delicate balance, merging Jeddah’s vibrant culture and rich traditions with the brand’s fervent spirit, sophistication, and passion for pushing boundaries. From this fusion emerges a singular entity, transcending the sum of its parts to seamlessly blend the essence of the East with the innovation of the West, creating an unparalleled hospitality experience.

Josh Fluhr, EDITION's Senior Vice President and Global Managing Director, comments, "In this transformative time in the country's rich history, we're thrilled to further expand the EDITION brand in Saudi Arabia. Through our inspired partnership with Dr. Rakan Al Harthi and his team, we're bringing EDITION's unique concept to Jeddah, which is destined to evolve the luxury standard in the Kingdom."

The Jeddah EDITION boosts Saudi Arabia’s exciting journey of transformation where refined sophistication, style and a new era of quiet luxury collide. Located on the Jeddah Corniche - a 30km coastal resort area along the Red Sea - the urban resort is steps from the Jeddah Art Promenade, and a short drive from destinations like Al-Balad, a UNESCO Heritage site in the historic part of the city, and The Red Sea Mall. Perched atop one of the most exciting corners of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix Circuit - the fastest Formula 1 track – adjacent to the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina, the hotel settles neatly into its location within a sleek low-rise building designed to resemble a superyacht. As night falls, the Marina transforms into a destination of hospitality where locals enjoy late evenings of dining and shopping along the waterside.

Amid an oasis of landscaped gardens interspersed with eight-metre-tall palm trees, the property is creatively programmed and concepted by EDITION, and unfolds like a four-story theatrical piece. Designed in partnership between EDITION and international design studio Yabu Pushelberg, the hotel remains firmly rooted in the EDITION brand’s strong sense of refined simplicity and style. The property showcases 52 rooms and 11 suites including two Penthouses, a rooftop terrace with a pool, spa, gym, as well as two lounges and a signature restaurant with meticulously curated culinary concepts by acclaimed New York chef, Cédric Vongerichten.

As with all EDITION properties, the Lobby areas serve as the hotel’s lively beating heart, enveloping guests with the property’s signature scent upon entry into the open-flow lobby. Beneath soaring 12-metre-high ceilings, a large orange acrylic sphere by artist Vincent Leroy takes centre stage. Inspired by Jeddah’s famous sunrises and sunsets, the morning light radiates through the installation, dispersing a warm spherical glow onto clean-lined, custom-brushed white oak walls and travertine floors. The reception area – anchored by a walnut panelled niche and sculptural solid walnut desk – is met with upholstered wingback chairs intimately grouped with a prized Iranian silk Persian rug as well as Christian Liaigre console and lighting. The ground floor elevator lobby creates a picturesque moment of its own, boasting a molded and oxidized tinted glass mirror by artist Christopher Gaignon.

Adjacent to the lobby is the light-filled Lobby Lounge, which seamlessly flows from one convivial space to the next. Flanked by two large-scale golden acrylic wooden panel paintings by New York City-based artist John Jackson, the pieces reflect the evolving daylight, amplifying the golden yellow hues while paying homage to both Saudi Arabian culture and Jeddah’s unforgettable sunsets. In an elegant contrast, the space is dotted with curvilinear Molteni&C sofas, Henge tables, and white linen Avenue Road club chairs arranged around white marble coffee tables.

In the adjoining Lobby Bar, a black-and-white photography series by artist Richard Phibbs, an original royal purple billiard table by Blatt Billiards, and a custom gold leaf framed mirror above a Nero Marquina marble counter set the stage. Oak coffee tables and Christian Liaigre furniture in the warm and inviting space are layered with American black walnut wood flooring, plaster walls with moulding details, and full-height sheer white linen drapery. From day to night, the Lobby Bar will be the social nexus of the city, where guests will indulge in handcrafted beverages, coffee by a local roaster, and a selection of teas served alongside a menu of light bites and an incredible array of pastries. Outside, the expansive alfresco terrace, which spans the entirety of the building, provides a seamless flow of connection across the venues, with a bocce ball court, Red Sea vistas and views of the Floating Mosque.

Maritime, a name that reflects the spirit of culinary exploration, is the hotel’s signature contemporary French-Asian restaurant concepted by renowned chef Cédric Vongerichten. Recognized by Zagat as one of the top 30 chefs under 30, chef Cédric has honed his craft in some of the most celebrated kitchens around the world, including three-Michelin-starred El Bulli in Spain. His distinguished career at the most prestigious restaurants echoes his prolific chef and restaurateur father, Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

“Maritime is inspired by my love of Asian flavours, which began during my years living in Bangkok, in harmony with my passion for French cooking techniques. I’ve created a menu that reflects diverse cultures and features the aromatic spices of the region alongside the finest local ingredients” says chef Cédric Vongerichten.

Maritime, open from sunrise to late evening, serves perfectly executed dishes designed to be shared. Spice is at the forefront, adding depth, flavour and aroma while merging Asian and Arabian sensibilities. Explore exquisite culinary creations like local shrimp dumplings accompanied by lemongrass beurre blanc and caviar, complemented by innovative non-alcoholic beverages such as the Saffron Spritz, featuring ginger honey and fresh saffron to tantalize your taste buds. The space holds two private dining rooms and an open show-kitchen; the design mirrors the cultural abundance of the culinary offerings. The interior reveals curved light plum velvet banquettes, walnut dining tables, and Thonet chairs with natural caning. Rich details such as distressed glass mirrors, potted banana leaf plants, blue and white Chinese pottery, and a prized Iranian silk Persian rug beneath the communal dining table complete the lively space. Overlooking the Red Sea, the restaurant’s terrace is ensconced by potted plants and over 150-year-old olive trees, while pink bougainvillea-covered pergolas provide protection from the blazing sun as long lunches effortlessly flow into golden hour drinks and dreamy dinners.

Follow the oak-panelled corridor to a partition of teal blue velvet drapes leading to The Den, a secluded haven for cigar aficionados to unwind. Unique to the EDITION portfolio, the intimate, low-lit lounge is dressed in custom tufted teal blue velvet banquettes and outfitted with rich brown armchairs and stools. The walls are adorned with whimsical photographs by artist Christian Vieler encased in classical ornate frames that depict the unbridled joy of dogs catching treats, adding a quaint layer to the space. From the lacquered rosewood countertop, bespoke coffees and non-alcoholic beverages, such as The Den Sour, are best enjoyed with light bites from chef Cédric Vongerichten, followed by a hand rolled cigar underneath the stars on the private terrace, creating a dream escape for cigar lovers near and far.

Nestled between the hotel’s third and fourth floors lie the 52 rooms and 11 suites, making for the ultimate urban retreat. Rooms are an understated haven that spotlights the artistry and craftmanship of EDITION’s signature design approach, with travertine bathrooms seamlessly leading to bright, white oak spaces and terraces boasting vista views to take in either the Red Sea or the F1 track. Each room is masterfully designed to be a calming space. Layered with travertine flooring, white oiled oak wall panelling embellished with black-and-white photographs of old Jeddah, and custom furnishings such as the inset leather headboards, accommodations are a vision of muted luxury. Freestanding bathtubs and signature EDITION Le Labo toiletries complete the serene enclave.

The Penthouse and Royal Penthouse set The Jeddah EDITION apart, providing a truly indulgent experience like no other. Spread over 240 sqm, the two-bedroom Penthouse encompasses two ensuite bathrooms and features a bright, spacious living room with a Christophe Delcourt sofa, Nienkemper metal coffee table and Liaigre bronze armchair and side stools. The exquisite dining room includes a 10-seat white marble table, and an additional seating area is equipped with Liaigre black wood lounge chairs, white linen upholstery, and a Holly Hunt Tudor coffee table. An expansive and lushly landscaped wrap-around terrace overlooking the Red Sea, Jeddah Yacht Club, and Formula 1 racetrack features two separate lounge areas perfect for private dining. There is also direct access to a private staircase to the pool deck and The Roof.

At the other end of the property, also offering front-row seats to the Grand Prix as well as views of the Red Sea and revered Floating Mosque, Al Rahmah, sits the Royal Penthouse, a spectacular 600 sqm duplex set over the third and fourth floors. Curated to cater to your every need, the Royal Penthouse features an elegantly landscaped terrace with an eating area and arrangement of living spaces along with private elevator access, an in-suite pantry, and a lower-level room for private security. Bright interiors unfurl to include a casual and formal sitting room, dining room, and two bedrooms with their own living rooms, extensive walk-in wardrobes, indulgent bathrooms, and blissful views of the Red Sea. In true EDITION fashion, the Penthouses are elegant and refined in neutral tones elevated with curated artwork and furnishings by Christophe Delcourt and Christian Liaigre. Floor-to-ceiling shelves with l’objets d’art and an array of books covering everything from fashion to architecture and art polish the space, giving a residential feel.

On the fourth floor, The Roof is a dreamy Mediterranean beach club-inspired escape. Perfect for locals and travellers alike, it features a series of private nooks and lounges ensconced by greenery against panoramic views of the vibrant Marina, Jeddah Yacht Club and F1 track. A sleek 14-metre pool is lined with sunbeds, bougainvillea-shaded cabanas, and dotted with Mediterranean-style potted plants. The menu features a variety of wood-fire cooked a la carte and sharing dishes, such as the grilled octopus served with fingerling potatoes topped with labneh, to be enjoyed after a day spent drinking frozen pressed juices or iced frappés poolside. The fourth floor is also home to a gym and The Spa where its warm walnut panelling and soft lighting beckons. An intimate and lowkey space with three treatment rooms - each with its own changing areas - the entrance is decorated with paintings by Copenhagen-based Anne Nowak while the menu comprises everything from facials to massages, using Natura Bissé products from Barcelona.

As The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia enters a progressive new era, The Jeddah EDITION is a one-of-a-kind hotel supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and putting one of the country’s most exciting cities on the map.

The Jeddah EDITION
7044 Al Kurnaysh Br Rd, Ash Shati, Jeddah 23613, Saudi Arabia
info.jed@editionhotels.com
Hotel: +966 12 514 0000
Reservations: +966 12 514 8787

ABOUT EDITION HOTELS

EDITION Hotels is an unexpected and refreshing collection of individualized, customized, one-of-a-kind hotels that redefines the codes of traditional luxury. Displaying the best of dining and entertainment, services, and amenities “all under one roof,” each EDITION property is unique, reflecting the best cultural and social milieu of its location and time.

Each hotel, with its individuality, authenticity, originality, and unique ethos, reflects the current spirit and zeitgeist of its location. Although all the hotels look completely different, the brand's unifying aesthetic is in its approach and attitude to the modern lifestyle rather than its appearance. EDITION is about a mindset and how it makes you feel rather than the way it looks. Sophisticated public spaces, finishes, design, and details serve the experience rather than drive it.

For an underserved market of affluent, culturally savvy, and service-savvy guests, the EDITION experience and lifestyle explores the unprecedented intersection and the perfect balance between taste-making design and innovation and consistent, excellent service globally. EDITION currently operates 20 hotels in New York and Times Square, Miami Beach, West Hollywood, Tampa, Barcelona, Bodrum, London, Reykjavik, Madrid, Rome, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sanya China, Shanghai, Tokyo Toranomon, Singapore, Riviera Maya at Kanai, Mexico, a second in Tokyo Ginza, and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Facebook: /EDITIONhotels
Instagram: @EDITIONhotels
editionhotels.com
www.marriott.com

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240520435394/en/

Contact

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
editionhotels.com
editionhotels.com/jeddah
Facebook: /EDITIONhotels /TheJeddahEDITION
Instagram: @EDITIONhotels @jeddahedition

maritimejeddah.com
Facebook: /MaritimeJeddah
Instagram: @maritimejeddah
Eat2Eat

PRESS INQUIRIES:
US & INTERNATIONAL
PURPLE
TheJeddahEDITION@purplepr.com

JEDDAH/DUBAI:
FRAME Publicity
Jeddah@framepublicity.com

Source : EDITION Hotels

CHRISTIE'S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE ENTERS VIETNAM, ONE OF THE FASTEST-GROWING LUXURY MARKETS IN THE WORLD, VIA PARTNERSHIP WITH S&S GROUP

New venture makes Christie’s International Real Estate the first global luxury real estate brand to enter Vietnam


CHICAGO and HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, May 20 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In recent years, Vietnam has emerged as one of the fastest-growing luxury real estate markets in the world, home to a growing number of high-end developments spurred on by a surge of local and international investment. 

Today, Christie’s International Real Estate announces its expansion into Vietnam through a new venture, S&S Christie’s International Real Estate. With the launch, Christie’s International Real Estate will be the first global luxury real estate brand with an office in Vietnam. 

The new firm is led by Sassy Nguyen, who along with her husband and business partner Sam Vu are the owners of S&S Group, a conglomerate of companies operating in the ultra-luxury automotive, timepiece, fashion, art, and now real estate, industries. Founded in 2013, the company has made a name for itself representing premier brands including Rolls Royce, Lamborghini, McLaren, Richard Mille, Berluti, Audemars Piguet and Baccarat, and recently expanded to Australia with the opening of a Bovet boutique in Melbourne.  

S&S Christie’s International Real Estate’s flagship office, which will open in early June, will be located in the Saigon Hilton, one of the newest luxury developments in Ho Chi Minh City, and home to S&S’s Lamborghini dealership. Sylvain Mariat, head of design for a European aircraft manufacturer and Mariat Design in Toulouse, France, is leading the design of the office’s interior, which features a nod to “jet and yacht culture” and the five elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water. According to Nguyen, S&S Christie’s International Real Estate plans to expand to the capital city of Hanoi within two to three years.  

As an affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, S&S Christie’s International Real Estate will offer clients national and international exposure through the brand’s global luxury network, which has affiliates in nearly 50 countries and territories. The firm will also enjoy exclusive marketing partnerships and a relationship with Christie’s auction house for the referral of fine art and luxury goods. The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is a key driver of overall sales and new-buyer spend at Christie’s. In 2023, APAC accounted for USD $805 million in auction sales – 28% of the auction house’s worldwide total – a figure that’s expected to increase with the opening of Christie’s new APAC headquarters in Hong Kong later this year.  

Nguyen and Vu’s deep connections in southeast Asia’s ultra-luxury market make partnering with S&S an important move for the luxury real estate network as it looks to broaden its reach in the Asia-Pacific region, according to Helena Moyas de Forton, managing director, EMEA and APAC for Christie’s International Real Estate.  

“With a rich cultural heritage and incredible potential for luxury-market growth, Vietnam has been in our sights for some time,” she said. “We’re thrilled to have found the right partner in S&S, a company with a great track record of success and an unparalleled understanding of the luxury market in Vietnam.” 

Vietnam’s real estate market has grown exponentially over the past decade, thanks to a stable economy, growth of manufacturing, and a booming agricultural sector – Vietnam is one of the world’s largest exporters of coffee and rice. A growing list of international blue-chip brands have also established operations in the country.

While Vietnam has seen an uptick in foreign buyers and investors, primarily from Asian countries including China, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and Japan, an increasing number of high-net-worth Vietnamese are also prioritizing offshore real estate investment. S&S Christie’s International Real Estate will serve clientele looking to invest in real estate around the world, in target markets including London, Paris, Dubai, Australia and the United States. 

“It’s an honor to bring Christie’s International Real Estate to Vietnam at such an exciting time for the luxury market in our country,” said Nguyen. “Launching the Christie’s International Real Estate brand in Vietnam is a show of confidence and a signal to luxury buyers and investors around the world that our market is here to stay and will continue to thrive.”  

Christie’s International Real Estate was born out of the iconic Christie’s auction house, which has captivated a global audience of art collectors and luxury consumers since 1766. Christie’s International Real Estate maintains a close partnership with the auction house, creating unique synergies between the worlds of high-end real estate, art, and luxury goods.


Bella Paredes
Christie's International Real Estate
2197657682
bellaparedes@atproperties.com


SOURCE : Christie's International Real Estate

Thursday, May 16, 2024

IHH LEADS THE WAY IN ASIA'S CANCER CARE WITH MAIDEN PRIVATE PROTON THERAPY CENTRE LAUNCH

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- IHH Healthcare, a world-leading integrated healthcare provider, has reinforced its position as Asia’s leading cancer care provider with the official opening of the Mount Elizabeth Proton Therapy Centre in Singapore.

Located in Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital (MNH), the centre makes IHH the first private healthcare provider in the region and in Singapore to offer proton therapy, providing patients unprecedented access to this advanced and highly specialised cancer treatment.

IHH Healthcare Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Prem Kumar Nair in a statement said adding proton therapy to IHH’s comprehensive suite of cancer treatment in Singapore solidified its standing as a Centre Of Excellence for oncology in Asia.

“Demand has already surpassed our expectations, and we are ramping up further to provide this cutting-edge treatment option to more patients across the region, as part of our purpose to touch lives and transform care,” he said.

Meanwhile, IHH Healthcare Singapore CEO, Dr Peter Chow said: “Cancer patients are not alone in their fight against cancer. IHH Healthcare Singapore’s investment in proton therapy demonstrates our unwavering resolve to provide our patients with the best care.

“Patients that are suited to undergo proton therapy will benefit from less side effects and damage to surrounding tissues due to the targeted nature of the proton beam.”

Proton therapy possesses unique properties that enable it to kill cancerous cells without causing as much damage to neighbouring tissue and organs, which means patients can better preserve function and enjoy higher long-term quality of life, which is especially critical and life-changing for younger patients.

The centre enhances MNH’s broad spectrum of oncology treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, and conventional radiotherapy, and is particularly beneficial for complex anatomical sites, sensitive tissues, as well as paediatric cases.

Since it began operations in May last year, the centre has treated more than 100 patients across 16 countries, from Singapore and Southeast Asia to as far as the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with patients ranging in ages from 18 months to 85 years.

-- BERNAMA

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

FORMER K-POP GROUP KARA MEMBER NICOLE JUNG JOINS MUSICAL SPECTACULAR RIDE THE WIND 2024

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- Former member of South Korean super girl group Kara, Nicole Jung took part in the Chinese variety show "Ride the Wind 2024", a musical spectacular produced by Mango TV.

Apart from Jung, Vietnamese singer Suni, and Thai actress Mai Davika have also taken part in the spectacular.

According to a statement, the show has invited 36 accomplished women of all ages globally to join in the excitement where their brilliant stage performances, showcasing many unique styles, catapults the show into a major platform for international cultural exchange.

During her stage debut, Jung performed her signature dance while singing "Mr" was one of the show's highlights, in addition to collaborating with Suni to present a cool and challenging stage performance called "The Mist".

Furthermore, Jung along with Suni and Davika also teamed up with other contestants for the challenge to sing not just Chinese songs, but also in various styles during the official group competition.

Despite the outcome of the results, the contestants have developed a strong bond of camaraderie through teamwork during this difficult challenge.

In the "Ride the Wind 2024" show, contestants from different countries with diverse skills and cultural backgrounds have presented their stage performances.

The spectacular proves not only a visual feast, but also an opportunity for the audience to be impressed by global cultural diversity and cultural integration.

-- BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR MAKES THE CUT AS TOP 10 MEETING DESTINATIONS IN APAC



KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- Cvent, an industry-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider, released its lists of the Top Meeting Destinations and Top Meeting Hotels for Asia Pacific (APAC), with Kuala Lumpur and Hilton Kuala Lumpur ranked seventh and eighth, respectively.

The top 10 cities remained mostly consistent year-over-year with Singapore retaining its first position from 2023, while the sole newcomer to the list is Shanghai, China at 10th place.

According to Cvent in a statement, Bangkok, Thailand (No. 2), Tokyo, Japan (No. 4), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (No. 7) and Phuket, Thailand (No. 9) each improved their top 10 rankings from 2023.

Meanwhile, JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach rose in the Top 10 Meeting Hotels ranking to secure this year’s top spot, as the hotel’s proximity to the Central Business District, cutting-edge audio-visual offerings and flexible meeting space make it an ideal host venue for event planners.

Newcomers to the top 10 include Hilton Tokyo (No. 4), Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park (No. 5), voco Orchard Singapore (No. 7), Hilton Kuala Lumpur (No. 8), and Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park (No. 9).

These lists, which also include regional rankings for North America, Europe, and the Middle East & Africa, were compiled based on sourcing activity through the Cvent Supplier Network, one of the world’s largest venue-sourcing platforms.

The annual Cvent Top Lists have become go-to resources for event organisers worldwide looking for incredible hotels and destinations to host their events.

Cvent has evaluated more than 12,500 cities worldwide listed on the Cvent Supplier Network (CSN) for Cvent Top Meeting Destinations, in which activity was tracked between January 2023 and December 2023.

For Cvent Top Meeting Hotels, Cvent evaluated hotel properties that generated business through the CSN in the same period with properties ranked according to various criteria, including total requests for proposals (RFPs), awarded RFPs, and total room nights.

-- BERNAMA

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

GEN Z MORE LIKELY TO ENGAGE IN UNETHICAL CONDUCT IN WORKPLACE - RESEARCH

 

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- A new report by LRN Corporation revealed significant challenges in workplace ethics, with nearly a quarter (23 per cent) of employees worldwide agreed that “it is OK to break the rules if needed to get the job done” and 14 per cent admitted to had actually “engaged in behaviour that violated their company’s Code of Conduct or standards” in the past year.

The report also found that 22 per cent of Gen Z respondents engaged in unethical conduct in the past year in the workplace, compared with just nine per cent of Boomers.

A leader in ethics and compliance (E&C) solutions, LRN Corporation in a statement said the results suggested an inverse trend between this mindset and age, with Gen Z 2.5 times more likely to agree with breaking the rules than Boomers.

The research found that companies with strong ethical cultures have lower rates of observed misconduct and report their observation at a rate 1.5 times higher than those in companies with weak cultures (93 per cent compared to 63 per cent).

Globally, one-third (33 per cent) of respondents had observed misconduct or unethical behaviour in the past year, with harassment, discrimination, conflicts of interest, and employee health and safety violations cited most frequently.

Of those, one-fifth (21 per cent) did not report their observation because they did not think their company would do anything about their concern (36 per cent) or handle it effectively (30 per cent), or because they feared retaliation (36 per cent). These trends overwhelmingly signal a lack of trust in the system of procedural justice within the organisation.

The research also probed employees’ perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) and its place in work and on careers, while a slight majority believe AI will have a positive impact, employees who view their companies as adaptive and resilient are nearly two times more receptive to the potential benefits of AI in their workplace and career opportunities.

The report also uncovered several other notable findings include a large majority (79 per cent) of employees who observed misconduct reported their observation, with most raising their concern to either their direct manager or another manager in the company (77 per cent combined).

In addition, the research highlighted that psychological safety was the greatest predictor of whether employees would report misconduct they had observed; and hybrid employees have more positive perceptions of their company’s ethical culture than their fully in-office peers.

The findings are included in the company’s latest Benchmark of Ethical Culture Report, which is based on a comprehensive survey of more than 8,500 employees at major organisations and corporations in 15 different countries, and from 13 different industries.

-- BERNAMA

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

MARCO POLO OPERA REVIVED IN GUANGDONG REJOICING SINO-ITALIAN TIES

 




KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 (Bernama) -- The Guangzhou Opera House has welcomed nearly 200 international guests for the revival of the opera “Marco Polo” on May 3 and 4.

According to a statement, this three-act opera in Chinese melds a rich historical narrative with the enduring friendship between China and Italy, providing a unique cultural experience for both Chinese and international audiences.

“The extensive histories and cultural heritages of China and Italy enrich our cooperation, strengthening the bonds between our peoples,” said Italian Consul General in Guangzhou, Valerio De Parolis.

Marco Polo, the renowned 13th-century Italian explorer, chronicled his travels in China in the book "The Travels of Marco Polo", igniting the first "China fever" in the West, in which this opera exemplifies East-West collaboration, integrating Chinese and Western cultural elements seamlessly.

Premiered in 2018 at the same venue, the production featured a globally diverse team, with Chinese poet Wei Jin as scriptwriter and President of the German Composers Association DKV,  Enjott Schneider as composer.

Directed by former Director of Opera at the London Royal Opera House, Kasper Holten, the opera has toured from Quanzhou to Italy, earning international praise.

This revival marks the 20th anniversary of the China-Italy Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the 700th death anniversary of Marco Polo.

The prelude event, titled “Sharing Salon to An Encounter with Marco Polo”, held on May 4 drew nearly 200 delegates from 29 countries, including representatives from consulates and chambers of commerce, to engage in discussions on Sino-foreign cultural exchanges.

The salon featured “Marco Polo's Reverie” by Italian painter Sandro Trotti and works by Guangdong artist Wang Shaoqiang, who is participating in La Biennale di Venezia, with discussions highlighted Marco Polo's impact and the broader scope of China-Italy cooperation.

-- BERNAMA

Thursday, May 2, 2024

YAMATO HOLDINGS FREIGHT SERVICE BETWEEN SOUTHEAST ASIA, EUROPE TO REDUCE TRANSIT TIME



KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 (Bernama) -- Tokyo-headquartered Yamato Holdings Co Ltd has launched an international multimodal transport service by truck and rail connecting Southeast Asia and Europe on May 1.

The service was introduced to build a resilient global supply chain between Southeast Asia and Europe, in which the new transportation option offers seamless connectivity for the customers.

According to a statement, Yamato Holdings has helped customers build their global supply chains across 24 countries and regions.

In addition, its group company, Overland Total Logistic Services (M) Sdn Bhd in Malaysia has been providing cross-border truck transport services utilising container trailers between Southeast Asian countries and China since 2001.

Moving forward, the company will continue to propose solutions that optimise the customers' entire global supply chains, aiming for total logistics cost reduction, production efficiency improvement, and environmental impact reduction.

By utilising Overland Total Logistic Services' truck transport network for the Southeast Asia-China segment and partnering with rail service providers for the China-Europe segment, Yamato Holdings will provide seamless transportation through the delivery destinations.

This solution has shorter transit times than maritime transport via the Cape of Good Hope, and lower cost and less greenhouse gas emissions than air transport.

-- BERNAMA