Asia Outlook - Issue 28 by Outlook Publishing

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ASIA

ISSUE 28

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE 24

Malaysia/Penang: Two Sides of the Same Coin

THYSSENKRUPP ELEVATOR

SOUTH EAST ASIA 68 Taking digitisation to the next level

THAI AVIATION SERVICES LTD 88 Meeting and exceeding customer expectations

CARABAO GROUP CO. LTD 104 Understanding the market, and acting accordingly

FEATURING: BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE | LUMINA GROUP | THE WORLD MARKETING CONGRESS

Business Travel Guides

A complete guide to the world’s most popular locations

ASIA

M A L A Y S I A

Malaysia

t in high Due to its investmen and moderate eparated by the South technology industries has quickly China Sea, Malaysia wealth from oil, Malaysia nations in could easily be mistaken become one of the richer a mixture for two countries in one. Southeast Asia. It provides a developing and One half boasts bustling world modern of the s and of business cities, classic tea plantation nation. For the majority Malaysian mix and while re, happy a colonial architectu travellers this will be trip. with a host of an interesting and smooth Borneo will present you enable s and some to wild jungles, orangutan With Malaysia’s proximity to diving. for bet safe spots a r is spectacula the equator, it are weather. The two regions alone pack expecting warm two the t ures will spectacular, but throughou feast On average the temperat treats to daytime, the in 32°C there are even more from range definitely cooler 26°C your eyes upon and you to an ever so slightly by what is on Like the majority won’t be disappointed re in the evenings. is space-age architectu t Asian countries, it A trip to Malaysia will provide offer. From the you Lumpur to of Southeas are t to remember if you its that surrounds inofKuala Penang, business importan between November and an experience like no other; the historic charms travelling may will provide you with February that your sunshine bustling cities full to the travel in Malaysia of the best kind. by Malaysia’s a sensory overload well be interrupted country’s season. brim with life and natural Monsoon e A uniting factor of the a doubt impressiv bored microcosms is without You will never find yourself surroundings host to an various Indian curries, an enticing and vibrant its food. Between the stalls and a in such won’t even a busy schedule abundance of wildlife Chinese buffets, Malay food thrown in, setting, enjoy Malaysia’s bit of Westernised food hinder your ability to Writer: Phoebe Calver little be a problem on going hungry will not splendours. Project Manager: Joe Palliser your travels. WWW.ASIA OUTLOOKM

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Our Business Travel section not only gives executives the complete guide to the world’s most popular and populous locations, but also gives said locations the perfect opportunity to showcase their own businesses, events, venues and services to a truly international audience and readership of more than 220,000 each month. To share in this unrivalled exposure and to put your own offering on our map, then please contact our Sales Managers, Joe Palliser or Ryan Gray to find out more.

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W E L C O M E Welcome to Asia Outlook

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ASIA

Over the years, construction has contributed more than any sector to the influence that Asia Outlook now has in the region. Industry heavyweights including LITAC Consulting, Davy Sukamta & Partners, Samsung C&T Corporation, Shimizu Corporation, Raimon Land, Wild Cat Developments, Chip Eng Seng, and many more have shared their stories with us; demonstrating not only their own strengths, but the overall importance of the role that the industry plays across the continent. The latest in this long line of market-leading and magazineheading enterprises is Merx Construction Management, a Company whose client base serves as a who’s-who of international business dominance. Jet Aviation, Trafigura, Macquarie Bank, Bloomberg, IHG, Mercure and AXA are just a select few to have benefitted from the flexible, contemporary and innovative offering that Merx has become renowned for. “Our projects are carried out stringently alongside the Merx values of agility, collaboration and passion, which has helped to shape the way we work and continues to improve our business operations,” explains the SME’s Managing Director and Founder, William Forwood. Another global name in the form of thyssenkrupp compounds our always popular construction focus, with its Southeast Asian Elevator subsidiary lifting this month’s showcasing assortment to another level. Lumina Group’s soulful designs are balanced out by an injection of energy, courtesy of Carabao Group; a drinks manufacturer currently enjoying the spotlight in the UK on the eve of the new football season, as a sponsor of both Chelsea football club and of England’s secondary cup competition. Elsewhere, Howden Insurance Brokers joins Telenor Myanmar in sharing the companies’ personnel-focused enrichment initiatives, Hevilift highlights its unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, and oil & gas representatives, Thai Aviation Services and MECIP allude to the importance of international growth in overcoming the sector’s evident modern-day challenges. Finally, we round-up the issue by firstly exploring the multicultural make-up of Malaysia, and secondly by analysing two of the region’s key talking points; China’s Belt and Road Initiative, and APAC’s growing need for a more stringent energy strategy. ISSUE 28

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE 24

Malaysia/Penang: Two Sides of the Same Coin

ASIA

THYSSENKRUPP ELEVATOR

SOUTH EAST ASIA 68 Taking digitisation to the next level

THAI AVIATION SERVICES LTD 88 Meeting and exceeding customer expectations

CARABAO GROUP CO. LTD 104 Understanding the market, and acting accordingly

FEATURING: BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE | LUMINA GROUP | THE WORLD MARKETING CONGRESS

EDITORIAL Editorial Director: Matthew Staff matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com Deputy Editor: Phoebe Calver phoebe.calver@outlookpublishing.com

PRODUCTION

Production Manager: Daniel George daniel.george@outlookpublishing.com Art Director: Stephen Giles steve.giles@outlookpublishing.com Advert Designer: Mandy Farnell mandy.farnell@outlookpublishing.com Images: Thinkstock by Getty Images

BUSINESS

Sales Director: Nick Norris nick.norris@outlookpublishing.com Operations Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outlookpublishing.com Training Development Manager: Eddie Clinton eddie.clinton@outlookpublishing.com Sales Managers: Joe Palliser joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com Ryan Gray ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com Heads of Projects: Arron Rampling arron.rampling@outlookpublishing.com Josh Mann josh.mann@outlookpublishing.com Kane Weller kane.weller@outlookpublishing.com Tom Cullum tom.cullum@outlookpublishing.com Project Managers: Callam Waller callam.waller@outlookpublishing.com Donovan Smith donovan.smith@outlookpublishing.com Josh Hyland josh.hyland@outlookpublishing.com Matt Cole-Wilkin matt.cole-wilkin@outlookpublishing.com Richard Thomas richard.thomas@outlookpublishing.com Stuart Parker stuart.parker@outlookpublishing.com

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Managing Director: Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com Chairman: Mark Weaver Contact: Outlook Publishing Ltd Woburn House, 84 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 4AB, United Kingdom Sales: +44 (0) 1603 959 652 Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 959 655 SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 655 matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com

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Matthew Staff

Editorial Director, Outlook Publishing

Enjoy the issue!

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In this issue...

NEWS

ENERGY AND UTILITIES Asia-Pacific’s Demand for Energy

All the latest top stories from across Asia

Taking the pressure off AsiaPacific’s energy requirements

CONSTRUCTION China’s Road to Reward

Arcadis’ Jonathan Beard offers on view on China’s ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative

S E C TO R F O C U S

MANUFACTURING Moderate Manufacturing Momentum

Asian manufacturing’s 2017 half-time report points towards slow progress and steady recovery

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE

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MALAYSIA/PENANG

Two Sides of the Same Coin

ASIA 50

E V E N T

SHOWCASING LEADING COMPANIES Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world

136 138

WORLD CONGRESS ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IOT EXPO 2017

CONSTRUCTION

MERX CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT Making it Happen Capitalising on economic demand for real estate opportunities

62 68

LUMINA GROUP Soulful Design

Developing distinctive character for local markets

THYSSENKRUPP ELEVATOR SOUTHEAST ASIA A New Realm Taking digitisation to the next level

F O O D & D R I N K

104

CARABAO GROUP COMPANY LIMITED Energy, for Everybody, Everyday

Understanding the market, and acting accordingly

HOWDEN INSURANCE BROKERS Specialist Insurance Solutions Utilising people as a primary asset

140

LAST MILE ASEAN

142

HI JAPAN

144

INDONESIA TRADE & COMMODITY FINANCE CONFERENCE 2017

118

HEVILIFT Uncompromised Service

The journey is just as important as the destination

L&A CONSTRUCTION LIMITED Flight to Quality Expanding construction capabilities

G A S

THAI AVIATION SERVICES LTD Win-Win Aviation

Meeting and exceeding customer expectations

MECIP Global Expertise, Local Solutions

T E C H N O L O G Y

124

CITCC (MYANMAR) CO. LTD. Your Best Choice A leading contribution to Myanmar’s ever-expanding telecommunications field

A one-stop, innovative engineering solutions provider

128

TELENOR MYANMAR Accessible Everywhere, Affordable to All Providing full connectivity to Myanmar

ASEAN’s online retail distribution conference and expo The must-attend event to witness the next step in the functional ingredients industry

Indonesia’s premier trade gathering

146

MINING INVESTMENT MIDDLE EAST AND CENTRAL ASIA

The foremost Middle East and Central Asian forum for the global mining community

MINING & RESOURCES

O I L

Capitalising on exciting new opportunities for trade and treasury in Asia

Access the Asia-Pacific Internet of Things market

112

F O C U S

GTR ASIA TRADE & TREASURY WEEK

148

MINING INVESTMENT CHINA

150

GULFOOD MANUFACTURING

152

MRO ASIA-PACIFIC

154

THE BIG 5 CONSTRUCT INDONESIA

156

FI INDIA & HI 2017

158

THE WORLD MARKETING CONGRESS

The foremost Chinese forum for the global mining community

The core of trading within the F&B processing industry A nose-to-tail experience covering the full lifecycle of an aircraft

Construction and infrastructure opportunities in Indonesia continue to grow India’s largest gathering of food and beverage professionals

Discussing how businesses can grow, thrive and win by being a positive force in the world

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C O N S T R U C T I O N

China Helps Launch $13 Billion Belt and Road Rail Project in Malaysia China and Malaysia broke ground recently on a $13 billion rail project linking peninsular Malaysia’s East and West, the largest such project in the country and a major part of Beijing’s Belt and Road infrastructure push. The planned 688-km (430-mile) East Coast Rail Link will connect the South China Sea, large parts of which are claimed by China, at the Thai border in the east with the strategic shipping routes of the Straits of Malacca in the West. It is among the most prominent projects in China’s controversial Belt

and Road Initiative, which aims to build a modern-day Silk Road connecting the world’s second-largest economy by land corridors to Southeast Asia, Pakistan and Central Asia and maritime routes opening up trade with the Middle East and Europe. “The ECRL is indeed yet another ‘game changer’ and a ‘mindset

changer’ for Malaysia as it will significantly cut travel time to and from the east coast of the peninsula,” Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak said at the ceremony half way along the route in Kuantan, which faces the South China Sea. For China, the project is another expansion of its soft power in Malaysia, which also lays claim to some disputed South China Sea islands, and is critical for China’s geopolitical and strategic interests. “The Chinese Government has attached great importance to the China-Malaysia relations and has always considered Malaysia a dear neighbour and trustworthy partner who is committed to seeking mutually beneficial cooperation and common development in the country,” Chinese State Councillor Wang Yong said at the ceremony, heading up a 100-strong delegation in Kuantan. Beijing has repeatedly come to the rescue of Najib over the last year, as he sought foreign investment that would help him pay off a massive debt piled up by scandal-plagued state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Najib has announced a spree of infrastructure projects in the last few months, many funded by China, as he builds up momentum for a general election that he has to call by mid-2018. There have been protests in Sri Lanka and Thailand over the Belt and Road initiative. A planned rail link through Thailand hit some resistance with what critics said were Beijing’s excessive demands and unfavorable financing. But Thailand’s cabinet in July approved construction of the first phase of a $5.5 billion railway project to link the industrial eastern seaboard with southern China through landlocked Laos.

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ASIA A G R I C U LT U R E

Rising unemployment and falling farm incomes are driving farming communities across India, from the state of Haryana in the North to Gujarat in the West, to redouble their calls for reservations in jobs and education. “Farming is no longer profitable and jobs are not available,” said one protester, Pradip Munde, a farmer from Osmanabad, a town more than 400 km (250 miles) southeast of

Mumbai. “Reservation can ensure us better education and jobs.” Protesters dismissed as insufficient a proposal by the chief minister of Maharashtra state, Devendra Fadnavis, to consider granting reservations to the Maratha community, which is mainly dependent on farming. “We are not satisfied with the Government’s promises. The Chief Minister hasn’t given any concrete assurances to solve farmers’ problems,” said Bhaiya Patil, one of the rally organizers. The protest rally seriously disrupted road and rail traffic in Mumbai and a city park where protesters gathered could not accommodate all those trying to enter, but police said there was no violence.

The Government has already asked state oil companies to set up ethanol plants at 12 locations over the coming year. Energy consumption in India is expected to grow as the government aims for economic growth of eight to nine percent this fiscal year through March, 2018, against around seven percent in 2016/17. IOC runs three biofuel plants with an investment of about 30 billion rupees

and is looking to increase the number of such plants, Singh said. India needs private investment in the sector and once the cost of production comes down, the country could see some private sector participation, Singh said. Separately, transport minister Nitin Gadkari said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet could soon consider allowing the use of alternative fuel methanol in shipping.

Huge Protest Rally Disrupts Traffic in India’s Financial Capital At least half a million protesters brought Mumbai, India’s financial capital, to a standstill as they pressed their demands for reserved quotas in government jobs and college places amid a slumping rural economy. Organisers put the number of protesters at more than two million and said it was the largest rally ever staged in the city of 20 million. Indian media estimated the number of people at the rally between 600,000 and about one million. O I L & G A S

India Set to Unveil New Biofuel Policy India will soon announce a new policy to promote biofuels as part of efforts by the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases to cut imports of fossil fuels like oil, gas and coal. The Government aims to develop a biofuel economy worth one trillion rupees ($15.6 billion) in the next two years, Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan told a conference on renewable energy. India’s top three state-owned oil companies have pledged a combined $2 billion to carry out research to develop biofuel technologies and the government has pledged to guarantee a return on their investments, Pradhan said. New Delhi also plans to lower its carbon footprint by raising the use of natural gas in its energy mix to 15 percent in the next three to four years, up from 6.5 percent currently.

GO TO WWW.ASIAOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM ASIA

S E C O N O M Y

Sri Lanka Foreign Minister Resigns over Corruption Charges

SHIPPING & LOGISTICS

Japan Exports Rising for Eighth Straight Month Japan’s exports were expected to record an eighth straight month of growth in July, suggesting robust offshore demand could underpin moderate economic recovery. Exports are expected to have risen 13.6 percent in July from a year ago, accelerating from a 9.7 percent increase in June, the poll of 15 economists found. Imports were likely to have grown by 17 percent from a year earlier, up for a seventh straight month. “The global economy is gradually gaining momentum, so exports could pick up the pace of growth,” said Takeshi Minami, chief economist at Norinchukin Research Institute. Shipments of auto parts and electronic components appear to be contributing to export growth, while liquefied natural gas, coal and oil have likely boosted imports, analysts say. The poll showed a trade surplus of 392.0 billion yen ($3.56 billion) was expected in July, after 439.9 billion yen in June, the poll showed.

Sri Lanka’s foreign minister has resigned over corruption charges in an investigation of alleged irregularities in Government bond sales, maintaining that he was not guilty of wrongdoing. The resignation of Ravi Karunanayake, a former finance minister, follows demands for his removal by both the Government and the opposition, after the panel looking into the sales found his apartment rental was paid by an official being investigated. “I have never done anything wrong, and I resign with pride to create a new political culture in Sri Lanka and ensure good governance,” Karunanayake told parliament in a statement after announcing his resignation. Initiatives that have already proved successful can be expanded and introduced in other countries.

A G R I C U LT U R E

Indonesia Palm Oil Plantations Boost Security to Stop Thieves Indonesian security companies have seen a surge in demand for guards to protect palm oil plantations from fruit thieves and land grabbers, amid a rebound in prices of the commodity used to churn out everything from cooking oil to soap. Palm prices have jumped over 15 percent in the last few months, boosting the temptation for individuals or small-scale criminal gangs to steal fruit to sell to middlemen in the world’s biggest producer of the tropical oil. Security companies said this was driving more business their way, with palm growers looking to step up the number of guards patrolling plantations that can sometimes cover up to 30,000 hectares, equivalent to nearly half the entire land area of nearby Singapore. Unclear regulations on land ownership in palm-growing regions such as Sumatra and Kalimantan have also led to overlapping claims for land, with indigenous people occasionally occupying the concession areas of palm oil companies.

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ASIA M A N U FA C T U R I N G

Toyota Takes Stake in Mazda Toyota Motor Corp said it planned to take a five percent share of smaller Japanese rival Mazda Motor Corp, as part of an alliance that will see the two build a $1.6 billion US assembly plant and work together on electric vehicles.

The plant, whose location is not yet public, will be able to produce 300,000 vehicles a year, with production divided between the two automakers, and employ about 4,000 people. It will start operating in 2021. Analysts said the plan was more than a political ploy. The alliance is also an attempt to catch up with rivals in the race for electric car technology, as tighter global emissions rules loom, along with the entry of new players into the market.

T R AV E L & T O U R I S M

Marriott set to woo Chinese tourists with Alibaba deal Marriott International Inc said it would partner with China’s Alibaba Group Holding Ltd to tap into the growing number of Chinese citizens who travel abroad. The world’s biggest hotel chain said the joint venture with Alibaba would allow Chinese travelers to book rooms at Marriott hotels via Alibaba’s travel service platform, Fliggy. Travelers will be able to sign up for Marriott’s rewards program and receive special member-only rates through Fliggy, Marriott’s global chief commercial officer, Stephanie Linnartz, said in an interview. E C O N O M Y

E C O N O M Y

Germany Says China Must Make Good on Promise to Open Markets German Economics Minister, Brigitte Zypries has forecast big opportunities for German firms to expand trade with China, but urged Beijing to make good on a promise to open its markets and stop insisting that foreign firms create joint ventures. Zypries told leaders of the German Asia-Pacific Business Association that the Asia-Pacific region was important for German companies, and accounted for 16 percent of German trade. German investments in the region accounted for 15 percent of the total, up from around six percent in 2005,

the minister said. She said Germany backed free trade deals in negotiations between the European Union and countries in the region, but warned that China - the largest player - had to change course.

India Imposes Trading Curbs on Suspected Shell Companies India imposed trading restrictions on 162 listed entities identified as shell companies; a surprise move that analysts said was part of a broad crackdown on illegal offshore transfers and tax evasion. The announcement by the Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI) did not say what illegal activities the companies may have been engaged in. The restrictions include limiting trading in the affected companies to once a month and curbs in the trading of shares held by the promoters and directors of the companies. The Government has been going after companies it suspects of engaging in irregular transactions after a ban on high-value currency bills late last year.

GO TO WWW.ASIAOUTLOOKMAG.COM/NEWS FOR ALL OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM ASIA

TELL US YOUR STORY

AND WEâ€™LL TELL THE WORLD A S I A O U T L O O K is a digital and print product aimed at boardroom and hands-on decision-makers across a wide range of industries on the continent. With content compiled by our experienced editorial team, complemented by an in-house design and production team ensuring delivery to the highest standards, we look to promote the latest in engaging news, industry trends and success stories from the length and breadth of Asia. We reach an audience of 220,000 people across the continent, bridging the full range of industrial sectors: mining; oil & gas; logistics; resources; manufacturing; construction; engineering; technology; food & drink; retail; finance; and healthcare. In joining the leading industry heavyweights already enjoying the exposure we can provide, you can benefit from FREE COVERAGE across both digital and print platforms, a free marketing brochure, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and to grow your business. To get involved, please contact Outlook Publishingâ€™s Managing Director, Ben Weaver, who can provide further details on how to feature your company, for free, in one of our upcoming editions.

W W W. A S I A O U T LO O K M A G . C O M Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 650

Email: ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com

A S I A - P A C I F I C ’ S

D E M A N D

F O R

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ASIA-PACIFIC’S

DEMAND FOR ENERGY By 2030 it is expected that the Asia-Pacific region’s energy needs will almost double current requirements, with industry heavyweights called upon to rectify the issue Writer: Phoebe Calver

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ASIA he Asia-Pacificâ€™s energy demands have been throwing up some rather difficult decisions for the region and its industry providers, with a predicted rise in demand of almost double by 2030. Causing quite the conundrum, the Asia-Pacific region is urgently calling for innovative solutions to aid power generation that will be socially, economically and environmentally sustainable. Of course, this problem has been compounded by the fact that across Asia as a whole, there is a widespread issue with energy poverty. Almost one billion people are still without access to electricity, making for an even more pressing situation. Moving forward there will have to be a change in priorities for the region. Through isolating the pressing issues and work between the government and energy companies, work can be done to achieve access to clean energy for all. One of the most prominent issues to face is that of energy efficiency, it is emerging as one of the key factors in helping nations in both Asia and the Pacific in order to meet the growing energy needs by 2030. If energy companies are able to increase the efficiency of energy usage and subsequently lower the cost of supply yields, theoretically this will increase the availability of energy and produce large and economic benefits.

Sector governance and reform

In order to safely secure access to energy for everyone particularly those that are in more disadvantaged areas - developing countries, it is pivotal that good governance in the power sector is carried out. The consumers will benefit greatly from the smooth

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A S I A - P A C I F I C ’ S

D E M A N D

running of energy generation that is not only efficient but also accountable and transparent. Part of achieving this governance and reform is the establishment of competitive electricity markets within the region, achieved through the use of market pricing mechanisms and regulating monopolies that should theoretically encourage public-private partnerships. The need for regional cooperation will also be a pivotal leg in ensuring that this development in the energy sector is done in a sustainable manner, with sub-regional power trade working to maximise the minimal natural resources. This entails utilising the varying peak energy usage times of neighbouring countries, using regional power trade could help to reduce some of the demand.

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E N E R G Y

If energy companies are able to increase the efficiency of energy usage this will increase levels of availability

Conergy takeover

Conergy Asia & ME is one of the region’s largest downstream solar companies helping to lessen the impending energy demand, specialising in the development, design, finance, build and longterm asset management of commercial,

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“Over the past few years, Conergy has built leading positions in the Asia-Pacific market, creating a formidable and highly competitive organisation with excellent growth prospects”

industrial and utility-scale solar power systems. Conergy and its subsidiaries recently announced that certain funds managed by Tennenbaum Capital Partners, LLC (TCP) and Goldman Sachs BDC, Inc. (GSBD), a business development company managed by Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM) have signed a definitive agreement that acquired the Company from Kawa Solar Holdings. Headquartered in Singapore, Conergy specialises in the development, design, finance, build and long-term asset management of commercial, industrial and utility-scale solar power systems. It has served as the EPC contractor and O&M service provider for approximately a half gigawatt of solar plants. Since the Company’s inception, Conergy has installed almost two gigawatts of capacity globally, with operations in Japan, Australia,

Thailand, the Philippines, Myanmar and Germany. Alexander Lenz, Chief Executive Officer of Conergy said: “This transaction brings tremendous value to our business, our employees and our customers. Over the past few years, Conergy has built leading positions in the Asia-Pacific market, creating a formidable and highly competitive organisation with excellent growth prospects. “TCP’s and GSBD’s extensive experience and access to capital will strengthen Conergy’s financial position, enhance our capabilities, and allow us to pursue new business opportunities in the region and execute our plans for growth in Australia, the emerging markets of Southeast Asia and Japan.”

“Their investment reinforces our competitive position as a premier solar downstream player in the Asia Pacific market...”

ASIA Marc Lohoff, Chief Operating Officer of Conergy added: “I am confident that our supply and construction partners will share my enthusiasm for our new equity investors. Their investment reinforces our competitive position as a premier solar downstream player in the Asia-Pacific market, and further strengthens Conergy’s long-term position as a leader in solar project development and finance, construction and operations.” Rajneesh Vig, Managing Partner of Tennenbaum Capital Partners, concluded: “This acquisition offers us and GSBD a unique opportunity to work closely with one of the industry’s most experienced solar firms and to participate in the Asia-Pacific market – one of the most attractive solar markets in the world today.”

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China’s Road to Reward Jonathan Beard of Arcadis analyses the intercontinental influence of China’s Belt and Road Initiative Writer: Matthew Staff

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ASIA nveiled in 2013, China’s Belt and Road Initiative was a concept set up to proactively initiate improved trade routes and international business corridors, while simultaneously plugging infrastructure gaps across the strategy’s vast footprint. Comprising numerous corridors from the behemoth nation to areas including Russia, Turkey, Singapore, Myanmar, Pakistan and the Mediterranean - and everywhere in between - the idea is inevitably sowing the seeds for a mass pollination of commodities and trade deals, with the potential to bring increased economic prosperity to all in the Belt and Road Initiative’s wake. To find out whether such positive ramifications are really in the offing though, Asia Outlook spoke to Jonathan Beard, Head of Transportation and Logistics Asia, Arcadis who, as someone who has lived and worked in Asia for more than 17 years, has had a front row seat to the fallout from the 2013 unveiling; and who now co-chairs Arcadis’ Belt Road Alliance for Infrastructure Advisory Services. During Beard’s time on the continent, where he now lives in Hong Kong, he has advised on transportation policy and related infrastructure finance and development in more than 25 countries, for leading operators, investors and government agencies. Jonathan Beard (JB): “The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is an ambitious plan by the Beijing leadership to build and upgrade highways, railways, ports and other infrastructure throughout Asia, Africa and Europe to facilitate trade between China and approximately 65 countries. The BRI is often compared to the Marshall Plan (the American initiative to aid Western Europe after World War II), but the BRI is not ‘aid’ nor is it focused on ‘free trade’. It is based around multiple bi-lateral deals that involve a range of initiatives.

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Defining the initiative has its challenges as it is so wide ranging and has also evolved over time. The initiative has generated massive interest and enthusiasm, with talk of “win-win” and “enlightened self-interest” by the Chinese Government, but we have also seen some express cynicism and concern around the BRI being a tool to export or “dump” China’s surplus capacity of steel, cement and manufacturing on new overseas markets. Whichever way you choose to view the project, there is undoubted potential to significantly boost the infrastructure network, economic output and productivity across Asia, which creates an even more compelling project to watch out for in Asia. Asia Outlook (AsO): What was the initial response to the project in neighbouring countries and states like Hong Kong and the rest of APAC, in analysing its influences and repercussions?

The Belt and Road (BRI) initiative The “One Belt One Road” (OBOR) implementation began in 2015 and the opportunities for overseas businesses in China and along the routes are now becoming apparent as it continues to evolve sector by sector and province by province – a process which is expected to last for several decades.

JB: Initially, there were some queries from neighbouring countries and markets like Hong Kong as to what the initiative entailed. However, as details

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emerged, interest has swelled. In Hong Kong, the BRI has generated considerable enthusiasm and the HKSAR Government have actively supported the initiative. Many countries have welcomed the prospect of Chinese investment. Reactions to the initiative vary from country to country and indeed with another level of variance depending on which stakeholders you ask. In countries as diverse as Sri Lanka, Kenya and Malaysia, some sections of society have queried how projects are awarded and managed, and what the degree of local supplier participation will be, along with the overall economic benefit to the host economy. Certainly there have been occasions where the host country government could have been more innovative or pushed more vigorously for local economic engagement, whether in terms of labour, supplies or supporting services.

ASIA

AsO: What do you believe will be the impact on China’s strengths as a trading force and as an international economic presence as a result of the Belt and Road Initiative? JB: It is difficult to isolate the impact of the BRI against other longer and more general trends, such as the opening up of the PRC economy, accession to the WTO in 2001 and the re-engagement of an economic giant in the global economy. The BRI works with the grain of these trends, whilst at the same time, there are concerns that the USA might be retreating from the world. AsO: To what extent do you expect the conjoined nations to benefit in the same vein and what do you gather states like Hong Kong’s feelings are towards the project? JB: It is too early to see what the benefits of the BRI will be, but so far trade data shows a mixed performance.

“I am no fortune teller, but a factor for success will be the quality of project preparation – specifically proper due diligence and a focus on sustainability”

Dam Srinakarin power plant in a mountain lake at Kanchanaburi

There has been little change in the pattern of merchandise trade between China and the 65 BRI countries. China’s exports to BRI countries grew by 1.8 percent CAGR 2013-16; but China imports from BRI countries fell by 7.5 percent CAGR 2013-16. This was largely driven by weaker China demand for BRI commodity exports and lower global commodity prices, but the stronger performance by China exports to BRI countries plays to the concern that the BRI might be tilted towards supporting the export of surplus capacity. China’s trade surplus with BRI countries reached an accumulated US$232 billion in 2016, similar to its US$251 billion surplus with the USA. However, China is aware of the sensitivity and this is one reason the country has proposed an ‘import trade expo’ for 2018. The manufacturing, commodities and construction sectors have all benefited, but PRC construction and related entities have been the biggest winners to date.

AsO: On a final, general note, if we were to speak again in say - three-five years, what would you anticipate the fallout from this initiative to be; not just from a Chinese perspective, but from a general Southeast Asian point of view? JB: I am no fortune teller, but a factor for success will be the quality of project preparation – specifically proper due diligence and a focus on sustainability. For example, I imagine projects that have a significant private sector investment component and / or have been subject to proper, independent due diligence are more likely to be a success. Also, where the lead Chinese entity has a long-term stake in the project it is more likely to be successful. However, we may see a number of white elephants, as a result of inadequate project due diligence and transparency, and some countries struggling to repay debts to the PRC.

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S E C T O R

F O C U S

Moderate Manufacturing Momentum anufacturing activity in Asiaâ€™s tech-producing economies expanded over the summer of 2016, helped by growing global demand for electronics products, but headwinds in external markets could mean a moderation in growth in the second half of the year; a Reuters report confirms. Private sector surveys of manufacturers in Asia showed the

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A Reuters report predicts a mixed bag for Asian manufacturing for the remainder of 2017 with electronics headway held back by ongoing energy sector struggles Writer: Matthew Staff

factory sectors of China, South Korea, Japan and Taiwan picked up in June, driven largely by a recovery in exports. However, continued declines in energy prices, which weighed on manufacturing activity in Indonesia and Malaysia, could hurt these two economies going forward, analysts say. Meanwhile, in India, sluggish domestic demand offset strong foreign demand and led to a manufacturing slowdown in June.

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6.5%

Factory Purchasing Managers’ Indexes for South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam and India all remained above the 50-mark that separates contraction from expansion on a monthly basis. And all of these indexes, except for Japan and India, rose from the previous month, indicating acceleration in expansion. “Overall, the cross above the 50 waterline is not in doubt,” said Vishnu Varathan, Asia head of economics and

Chinese growth target

We believe cyclical momentum (in China) has likely peaked and will ease further due to tighter financial conditions

strategy at Mizuho Bank’s Treasury division. “But the ability for manufacturers to continue to accelerate, or to maintain sharp surges in production, is in question given underlying demand. Apart from some bright spots, it doesn’t seem to have permeated more widely across the different sectors,” he said. Can you just write a bit more here just to fill out the column i’m really struggling.

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F O C U S

Cyclical momentum

While manufacturing in June expanded at the fastest pace in three months in China, the world’s second-largest economy, business confidence slumped to its lowest level this year amid a Government crackdown on debt risks and tightening financial conditions. “We believe cyclical momentum (in China) has likely peaked and will ease further due to tighter financial conditions,” Yin Zhang and Helen Qiao, economists at Merrill Lynch in Hong Kong, wrote in a note. “Looking ahead, since overall growth is still higher than the policy target level at around 6.5 percent for real GDP, we expect policy makers to maintain the tightening bias [in the second half], which is likely to

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‘Vietnam’s electronics output fell one percent in the first quarter from a year earlier on problems with Samsung’s Galaxy Note 7, which the Company scrapped last year, but recovered in the second quarter’

impose downward pressure on growth until early 2018.” In Japan, confidence among big manufacturers hit its highest level in more than three years in June, according to a survey from the central bank published recently. But despite the recovery in some parts of Asia, stubbornly low inflation globally and other economic factors could weigh on the export-dependent region in the second half.

Moderate recovery

The Citi Economic Surprise Index, which moves in tandem with data beating or underclubbing expectations, has plunged for major industrial nations this year and is at negative levels not seen since 2011.

A sign at the Air New Zealand checkin counter in Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport warning passengers not to bring Samsung’s Galaxy Note 7 phone onto any flight due to problems with that phone’s battery.

And with global debt now standing at a record $217 trillion, “roll over” risks will increase as central banks start raising interest rates, weighing especially on emerging markets that have borrowed in euros and dollars. In Southeast Asia, manufacturing in Vietnam was boosted by ramped up production by South Korea’s Samsung Electronics. Vietnam’s electronics output fell one percent in the first quarter from a year earlier on problems with Samsung’s Galaxy Note 7, which the Company scrapped last year, but recovered in the second quarter. Samsung is Vietnam’s biggest foreign investor. Despite the encouraging electronicsdriven headline numbers for Japan, Taiwan and South Korea, signs of weakness are showing in other parts of these economies. Household consumption remains sluggish in Japan, job creation in Taiwan was the weakest in 20 months and South Korea’s factory output

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Asia’s manufacturing growth forecast is sluggish

shrank for a 11th straight month and factory employment fell for a 10th. “The larger story seems to be that a moderate recovery continues to be in place,” Mizuho’s Varathan said. “But for a virtuous cycle of wider household consumption that leads to a pickup in industries, we still have to wait a few more quarters before that plays out. And that’s the optimistic view.”

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M A L A Y S I A

Malaysia

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A trip to Malaysia will provide an experience like no other; its bustling cities full to the brim with life, and natural surroundings hosting an abundance of wildlife Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Joe Palliser

eparated by the South China Sea, Malaysia could easily be mistaken for two countries in one. One half boasts bustling cities, classic tea plantations and colonial architecture, while Malaysian Borneo will present you with a host of wild jungles, orangutans and some spectacular spots for diving. The two regions alone are spectacular, but throughout the two there are even more treats to feast your eyes upon and you definitely won’t be disappointed by what is on offer. From the space-age architecture that surrounds you in Kuala Lumpur to the historic charms of Penang, business travel in Malaysia will provide you with a sensory overload of the best kind. A uniting factor of the country’s various microcosms is without a doubt its food. Between the Indian curries, Chinese buffets, Malay food stalls and a little bit of Westernised food thrown in, going hungry will not be a problem on your travels.

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Due to its investment in high technology industries and moderate wealth from oil, Malaysia has quickly become one of the richer nations in Southeast Asia. It provides a mixture of the modern world and a developing nation. For the majority of business travellers this will be a happy mix and enable an interesting and smooth trip. With Malaysia’s proximity to the equator, it is a safe bet to pack expecting warm weather. On average the temperatures will range from 32°C in the daytime, to an ever so slightly cooler 26°C in the evenings. Like the majority of Southeast Asian countries, it is important to remember if you are travelling between November and February that your sunshine may well be interrupted by Malaysia’s impressive Monsoon season. You will never find yourself bored in such an enticing and vibrant setting, even a busy schedule won’t hinder your ability to enjoy Malaysia’s splendours.

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M A L A Y S I A

Tourism Malaysia TOURISM MALAYSIA WAS formed as an agency under the former ministry of Trade and Industry, known as the Tourist Development Corporation of Malaysia (TDC) which was first established on 10 August, 1972. The Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism was formed on 20 May, 1987 and subsequently, TDC became a part of this new entity. The Corporate Communications Division at Tourism Malaysia explains how the authority is developing and progressing with its key objectives in the country. Asia Outlook (AsO): Since inception, how has Tourism Malaysia developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across? Aliza Mansor (AM): While we have many functions, our primary goal has always been to stimulate and promote Malaysia as a premier tourist destination. The ‘Malaysia Truly Asia’ branding portrays Malaysia as a wholesome tourist destination with a ‘Truly Asia’ representation, reflected by the presence of the Malay, Chinese, Indian as well as the indigenous people of Malaysia. Together they make up the rich and diverse heritage and culture of our country, and in that sense, nothing has

changed - we still consider this a major selling point for Malaysia - and continue to use this brand until today. However, under the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) which was introduced in 2010, the Government has identified several niche areas under Tourism to focus on. For example, under the Tourism National Key Economic Area (NKEA) the Government has outlined several initiatives such as positioning Malaysia as a shopping destination, as well as developing cruise and golf tourism among others. Overall, this leads to a bigger theme of positioning Malaysia as a luxury destination, which has guided our marketing efforts in the last several years.

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AsO: To this end, how would you say Malaysia has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal? AM: Since 2010, Malaysia has supported a total of 1,726 business events which translates to some RM8.8 billion in economic impact. Throughout this period, we welcomed more than 800,000 delegates, who collectively spent more than RM5.3 billion in the country to date. This is testament to the efforts that we have made to position our country as a premier destination for business events and meetings, and we certainly have come a long way as a business tourism destination. One reason for our appeal for business tourism is that we are a highlydeveloped, politically stable nation located in the heart of Southeast Asia between the two booming economies of China and India. Coupled with our multicultural diversity and excellent value for money, it makes sense to make Malaysia the business hub for global associations looking to connect with Asia. Therefore our strength lies with our ability to engage with new economic centres, which we leverage through our rich historical links with China, India, and the Middle-East, while simultaneously enhancing ties with the west.

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partnerships with airlines for charter flight operations, as this will help connecting cities which are not serviced by direct connections to Malaysia, and also help bridge the gaps between peak season travel. Generally however, we plan to implement stronger engagement with other industry players, and establish more fruitful partnerships to further develop our tourism industry. AsO: Taking a more general industry stance, how would you evaluate the tourism sector in Malaysia now compared to its condition when Tourism Malaysia began? AM: Before tourism came into the scene, agriculture was Malaysia’s primary industry. Back then, tourism was almost non-existent, as foreign tourists preferred to visit Thailand in the north or Singapore in the south, and only went through Malaysia as a means of transit. Nevertheless small steps were taken to make tourism one of the nation’s economic pillars, and eventually the Tourism Development Corporation was formed in 1972. Since then, tourist arrivals have increased steadily year by year, but we hit a significant milestone when the ‘Visit Malaysia Year’ campaign was first introduced in 1990. The campaign attracted 7.4 million tourists, almost double compared to the 4.8 million the

AsO: Finally, looking forward, if we were to speak again in three-five year’s time, what progress and development would you hope and expect to be able to report back, both in regards to Tourism Malaysia as an entity, and in regards to AsO: What is in store for the business travel industry in Malaysia as a whole? Malaysia over the course of 2017 and beyond to continue AM: Actually, our primary goal will the good work already commenced and be sooner than that – by 2020, we to enhance its reputation as a tourism are already aiming to have 36 million and business travel hub further in the tourists with RM168 billion in tourist receipts, often represented simply by future? AM: Currently we are focusing on ’36:168:2020’. While ambitious, it is by improving flight connectivity to Malaysia. no means unrealistic. Our track record We are already a low-cost carrier hub for has been increasing steadily year by AirAsia, Firefly and Malindo Air, and we year, and as of last year, we received have also welcomed full-fledged airlines 26.8 million tourist arrivals, with tourist such as British Airways, All Nippon receipts of RM82.1 billion. This was a Airways and Air China to our shores. four percent increase compared to However we will still need to improve tourist arrivals in 2015, and we expect long-haul connectivity. the numbers to continue to grow, in time to meet our goals for 2020. For now, we are working on joint year before. Since then tourism has been rapidly gaining momentum and has become one of the biggest industries in Malaysia, bringing in 26.8 million tourist arrivals, with RM82.1billion in tourist receipts in 2016.

PHOTOS: TOURISM MALAYSIA

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P E N A N G

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Penang enang has long served as the connecting point between Malaysia's two halves, acting as a natural and important stepping stone towards Europe and the Middle East. The state hosts one of Malaysia’s most diversely cosmopolitan and exciting cultures, with George

Town providing the culmination of all this energy. There you will find the perfect combination of the urban centre required for ease during a business trip, as well as delivering on the charms of old-world Asia. Although Penang’s beaches are a perfect spot on which to relax, you will find the state’s rich and multicultural history is what really draws you in. Its history dates back to the beginnings of British colonialisation in the 18th century and is full of Malay, Chinese,

Indian and European influences and is known as the food paradise of Malaysia. Of course, it would be a travesty to neglect Penang’s tropical masterpiece during your time there, with palm-lined beaches and quaint fishing villages to explore. If you have a little more time on your hands between meetings and find yourself looking for a challenge, take a trip up to the mountainous jungle farms that grow exotic produce such as nutmeg and durian. Similarly to the rest of Malaysia the climate in Penang is that of an equatorial state, with the driest months between January and February and the wettest period of time from September to November. Of course, you will be travelling for business, but take into account that high-season is around Christmas, New Years Day and the Chinese New Year and the island will be flooded with tourists, making finding accommodation particularly challenging.

FACTS & FIGURES

Languages: Malay, English Area: 1,048km2 Population (2017): 1,746,300 Currency: Ringgit (RM) Time zone: UTC +8 Dialling code: +604 Climate: . Tropical

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The Business End DESPITE ITS SMALL size, the state has been known as the Silicon Valley of the east, possessing one of the largest economies and highest GDP per capita of all Malaysia’s states. To match its incredibly fruitful economy, Penang also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country at 1.5 percent. Capital investments have been rife in Penang since 2010, accounting for 26 percent of Malaysia’s total investments. The state has undergone an incredible economic growth that has been described of late as Malaysia’s greatest success - quite the accolade - and aids business travel operations in the area. Bolstered by the state’s economic success, the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) - a self-funded statutory body - was created with the aim of enhancing Penang’s socioeconomic development and through

those creating new employment opportunities. The Manufacturing industry has been the foundation of Penang’s economy since the 20th century, enticing thousands of firms to begin working in the state. As mentioned earlier, Penang earned its reputation as the Silicon Valley of the east with thanks to the electronics, technology and engineering firms that began work in the state.

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With a rapidly developing reputation as one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Southeast Asia, Penang now has a very well established services sector which has now overtaken manufacturing. Almost twothirds of its workforce is employed in service industries, including retail, accommodation, medical tourism and food and drink; all of which work together to create the thriving tourism sector you will find today.

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Out & About IN YOUR WELL-EARNED free time, you will find no shortage of sights to see in Penang. A particularly popular spot is George Town – the state’s capital – when you will find a cultural free-for-all and a plathora of landmarks and activities located around every corner. Penang is particularly well known for its endless, not to mention delicious dining opportunities and providing you with the chance to get a true taste of the state. Depending on whether you would like a chance to sit down and unwind, or are looking for

the opportunity to test out some of George Towns food stalls, either way you will be spoilt for choice. Malaysia in particular is becoming famous for its incredible cities and the regeneration taking place there, and in a place like George Town you will find an abundance of rooftop bars to maximise the incredible views. If you are in search of a chance to take in the city after a long day of meetings, these are the perfect spots to do so. Speaking of famous, Penang has become quite the hotspot when it comes to shopping, offering

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glamorous centres to shop away a few hours. Straights Quay is Penang’s first and only seafront retail marina, perfectly blending together a mix of the state's culture and food and a revival of old traditions and events. If you find yourself with the opportunity to stay at the Haven Resort Hotel, take up that chance. Located centrally in Ipoh, not only are you in the perfect place to venture into the business district but also in a place of such beauty you will be booking a return trip before you know it.

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Bringing you comfort always Take Me Out I Am Your Free Travel Buddy Proudly the first hotel to launch in Malaysia

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We provide your transportation all over peninsular Malaysia

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P E N A N G

Outlook recommends “If there's a better microcosm of the exotic east than Penang, we've yet to find it. Located at the intersection of Asia’s great kingdoms and Europe's powerful colonial empires, Penang has long served as the link between Asia’s two halves and an important outlet to the markets of Europe and the Middle East.” Lonely Planet

NIGHTLIFE

HOSPITALITY

Slippery Sinoritas, George Town SHOPPING Straights Quay

Hard Rock Café Penang

Ixora Hotel

Three Sixty Revolving Skybar

23lovelane

The E&O Group The E&O Group has extensive interests in both Penang and Kuala Lumpur; located at Straights Quay. The Group's portfolio covers a wide range from modern city condominiums to prime residential neighbourhoods. The Group has been set apart from the rest in the local market through its spirit of grace and refinement which stems from a long and rich history.

Penang Plaza Island Plaza RESTAURANTS Kebaya Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Indigo Restaurant 36

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Eastern & Oriental Hotel The Haven Resort Hotel

LEISURE Penang Hill Train Comfort Taxi Penang City Half-Day Tour

The Haven Resort Hotel, Ipoh is located centrally in the city, surrounded by many scenic and historical tourist attractions. When staying at the resort, you will find yourself surrounded by an unparalleled lifestyle of luxury and convenience, including its incredible infinity pool, fully equipped gym, jogging track, tennis court which is in the process of being built, ballroom and conference facilities, making it the perfect place for a business trip. The Resort perfectly combines business and pleasure and will provide you with an extremely enjoyable base during your trip. All of the suites within the hotel have been carefully designed with both business and leisure in mind, while also offering spectacular panoramic views of the natural beauty surrounding it.

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Transport Links

Aerial view of George Town

IF YOU FIND yourself with a little more time on your hands than expected and a chance to explore George Town, the best way to do it is on foot. Depending on the time of day, make sure you bring plenty of sun-cream and wear light clothes if you are planning to do this. The local bus service called RapidPenang runs very efficiently and is perhaps one of the favoured modes of transport if you are in a rush to navigate your day. All the bus stations and stops are well labelled; the service prides itself on its userfriendliness and frequent operations. However, it is worth noting that you will need to have the exact fare to

hand as the driver does not carry change. For a particularly authentic and at times entertaining experience you could test out a trishaw, however it is advisable to do this if you have a relatively free schedule for the day. The three-wheeled humanpowered vehicles provide a great way to see George Town and you are able to stop at any time to take photographs or simply embrace the atmosphere. Many of the trishaw riders are brilliant tour guides, but it is advisable to negotiate the fare before hopping on and perhaps consider hiring them by the hour for a relaxed break in your day.

Depending on the length of your stay, car rentals are a good option to consider. If you are looking for a change to explore the more rural western or southern coast of the island, this is the way to do it. However, be sure to take note when it comes to Penangâ€™s one-way streets and narrow roads. Similarly to the extensive public transport across Penang, taxis are a useful and quick way to negotiate your way from meeting to meeting. If you are unsure of your destination it is advisable, but always practice your haggling skills with the taxi driver before setting off and agree a price beforehand.

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Landmark Attractions Penang National Park

“The park with its rainforest and beaches is a great place to go jungle trekking, camping, fishing, wildlife and bird spotting, or just relax on one of its beautiful beaches… The Penang National Park - (Taman Negara Pulau Pinang) is located on the north-western tip of the island at Teluk Bahang.” - travel-penang-malaysia.com

Tropical Spice Garden

“This beautifully landscaped oasis of tropical, fragrant fecundity offers trails past more than 500 species of flora, with an emphasis on edible herbs and spices. You can explore the grounds on your own, or join one of four daily guided tours at 9am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm.” - Lonely Planet

Khoo Kongsi

“Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, or Khoo Kongsi for short, is one of the most distinctive Chinese clan associations in Malaysia. It is well known worldwide for its extensive lineage that can be traced back 650 years ago, as well as its closely-knit and defensive congregation of buildings and a magnificent clan-house.” - khookongsi.com

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An Oasis in the Heart of George Town

23LoveLane Hotel is a unique boutique heritage property with its own walled garden in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Reservations: +604 262 1323 Email: enquiry@23lovelane.com www.23lovelane.com Address: 23, Love Lane, George Town, 10200 Penang, Malaysia

Cheah Kongsi

“Looking splendid after a recent major restoration, Cheah Kongsi is home to the oldest Straits Chinese clan association in Penang. The ornate front of the clanhouse can be seen clearly across a grassy lawn from Lebuh Pantai, but the official entrance where you need to buy a ticket is on Lebuh Armenian.” - Lonely Planet

Art & Garden by Fuan Wong

“Rising up a hillside on a part of the family’s durian orchard is this amazing conceptual garden where glass artist Fuan Wong marries his superb collection of weird and wonderful plants with his sculptures and installations. Creative works by other artists are dotted throughout the garden, which also offers breathtaking views of Penang Hill.” - Lonely Planet

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K U A L A

L U M P U R

Kuala Lumpur espite the heat you will encounter, this city is most definitely one to explore on foot. You can completely immerse yourself in the action and will undoubtedly stumble across hidden gems, particularly those in the form of some of the cityâ€™s best dining spots. Walking around the city full of skyscrapers you will find yourself caught by the enticing aroma of freshly cooked food in traditional stalls, providing the perfect juxtaposition against the cityâ€™s relentless march towards modernity. It is a well known fact that the favourite pastime of the locals is shopping and eating, with Malaysian consumer culture reaching its peak in Kuala Lumpur. It provides you with the perfect way to relax and unwind on your travels, where you can spend an afternoon in a glamorous and perhaps more importantly air-

FACTS & FIGURES

conditioned shopping mall such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur or Mid Valley Megamall. Alternatively, if large-scale shopping malls are not your idea of relaxing, you can explore the Central Market. There you will find yourself amongst locally made souvenirs and perhaps some of the few remaining artisans and antique dealers in the area. Considering the amount of people packed into this city and its often frantic atmosphere, Kuala Lumpur is always incredibly charming to its guests. It provides the perfect host to any business traveller's trip, having fully embraced technological connectivity. However, unlike some ultra-modern cities, you will still find a firm adherence to traditional customs that will provide you with a feel of the city.

Languages: Malay, English Area: 243km2 Population (2015): 1,768,000 Currency: Ringgit (RM) Time zone: UTC +8 Dialling code: +604 Climate: . Tropical rainforest

PHOTO: TOURISM MAL AYSIA

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K U A L A

L U M P U R

The Business End AS WELL AS its surrounding areas, Kuala Lumpur is recognised as one of the fastest growing regions in Malaysia in both its economic and industrial standing. With the cityâ€™s longstanding position as the business centre of the country, it is no surprise that Kuala Lumpur is becoming a force financially as well as a centre for insurance, real estate, media and the arts. The infrastructural developments that are supporting this development in the surrounding areas, have enabled Kuala Lumpur to become a true centre and the perfect place for business travel to thrive. A prime example that reinforces the economic significance of the city is the development of Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Multimedia Super Corridor and the expansion of Port Klang.

With such importance financially to the country, comes a need for a large number of local and foreign banks as well as insurance companies. This is ensuring that Kuala Lumpur is perfectly poised to become the global Islamic Financing hub. Of course, with such economic prowess, a large number of foreign corporations have seen Kuala Lumpur as an attractive prospect. Now the city is a welcoming host to many multinational companies and their regional offices and support centres. The aforementioned companies are focused in the majority on the finance and accounting sectors, with information technology becoming more popular. Moving away from the financial sector slightly, other economic activities that are gaining traction

PHOTO: TOURISM MAL AYSIA

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in the city are education and health services. Kuala Lumpur has the advantage of a high-concentration of educational institutes, compiled by the numerous public and private medical specialist centres and hospitals located within the city that are able to offer general-health services. It is important to note when traveling in Kuala Lumpur that this range of specialist surgery and treatment caters to locals and tourists alike. Like many areas in Malaysia, tourism plays an important role in the cityâ€™s service-driven economy. Large worldwide hotel chains have set up shop in the Kuala Lumpur and it is hardly surprising when taking into consideration that it is the sixth most visited city in the world, welcoming 8.9 million tourists a year.

Experience Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Where comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality and courteous service is second to none. Discover Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur, the trendiest and stylishly chic hotel to open in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The ultimate hotel to explore and experience the diversity of Kuala Lumpur. From the old world charm of Little India, the Chinatown of Petaling Street, the culturally rich landmark of Merdeka Square and Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad to the bustling financial hub in the surrounding area. 347 Guestrooms • Cosmo Lounge • Café Mint • 5 multi-usage Business Venues

Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur 13-15 Leboh Ampang 50050 Kuala Lumpur +603 2030 1888 sales@cosmohotelkl.com www.cosmohotelkl.com

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Out & About KUALA LUMPUR OFFERS opportunities in abundance to enjoy, and even with the bustle of the city it offers many chances to escape a busy schedule. A perfect example of this is the Titiwangsa Lake Garden - also known as Taman Tasik Titiwangsa - a recreational park for the public which will help you escape, while also experiencing a part of everyday life in Kuala Lumpur. If you are planning a free afternoon and looking for an area packed with culture and peace, this is perhaps the

perfect spot. Surrounding the lake gardens are the National Library, Restaurant Nelayan, National Art Gallery, National Theatre and the Sutra Dance Theatre, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Taking you into the evening, nightlife has become a big part of the culture in Kuala Lumpur. Again, taking in the sights of the incredible city you have spent your day working in is not something to be missed. The Luna Bar is a two-storey rooftop bar located on the 34th floor of the Pacific Regency

PHOTO: TOURISM MAL AYSIA

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suites and one of the cityâ€™s best and most popular bars. There you can enjoy your evening with incredible views of the Petronas Twin Towers and an extremely relaxed atmosphere. You will find no shortage of excellent locations to rest your head, with Kuala Lumpur providing some of the best business hotels in the country. The Cosmo Hotel, located at Leboh Ampang is perfectly located for both your business activities and free time when you get a chance to explore this incredible city.

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Outlook recommends “It is a place where a variety of cultures are all infused into one melting pot to offer a unique experience to visitors… Where else can you savour the meanest street food with one of the world's most iconic structures in the background.” Visitkl.gov

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HOSPITALITY

Luna Bar Rooftop View Rooftop Bar SHOPPING

Marini's On 57

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

Mandarin Oriental

Central Market Kuala Lumpur Suria KLCC Mall

PHOTO: TOURISM MAL AYSIA

LEISURE Tun Abdul Razak Heritage Titiwangsa Lake Gardens PHOTO: TOURISM MAL AYSIA

RESTAURANTS Skillet At 163 Qureshi Malaysia Mosaic at Madarin Oriental 46

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National Museum

The Westin Kuala Lumpur Best Western Premier Ion Delemen Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur The Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur will provide you with comfortable accommodation, endlessly warm hospitality and courteous service that is second to none in the city. The contemporary hotel will suit all of your needs as a business traveller, boasting 347 spaciously designed guestrooms and suits. The hotel is within walking distance of some of the city’s banking institutions and popular attractions within the city, making it the perfect spot for both business and leisure travellers alike.

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Transport Links

KL's hop-on hop-off buses are one of the more entertaining modes of transport in the city

SIMILARLY TO ITS economic operations, Kuala Lumpur has a particularly ambitious public transport system with room for improvement. Although it is well developed, fairly efficient and convenient, its integration into the city needs to be worked on. You will quickly discover that similarly to many developing cities, Kuala Lumpur suffers from traffic jams at regular intervals throughout the day. It is inevitable that at some point you will fall prey to this, so ensure you leave plenty of time to reach each destination. Although the

city has good quality roads, if you do choose to tackle them be prepared for a complex web of expressways and signs in the local language. One of the more entertaining modes of transport is the doubledecker KL Hop-on Hop-off tour bus, including free wifi and a commentary. However, if you are looking for the most efficient way to navigate the city, the RapidKL runs a cheap and incredibly comprehensive public bus network with two running every hour. Again, in attempts to curb the cityâ€™s traffic situation, its rail coverage is

PHOTO: TOURISM MALAYSIA

extensive and with careful planning beforehand should enable you to reach most hotels and tourist hotspots without the need of a taxi. If at any point you do find yourself in need of a taxi, prepare for many of the drivers you encounter to refuse use of the meter; particularly during rush hour where prices will often become negotiable and inflated. Similarly to George Town, you will find Kuala Lumpur to be fairly compact enabling exploration on foot between the colonial area and the new glass and steel sector of the city.

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K U A L A

L U M P U R

Landmark Attractions Petronas Towers

“Soaring to a height of 451.9 metres, the 88-storey twin structure is Kuala Lumpur's crown jewel. Majestic by day and dazzling at night, the PETRONASTwin Towers is inspired by Tun Mahathir Mohamad's vision for Malaysia to be a global player. Together with master architect Cesar Pelli, the international icon powerfully captures the nation's ambitions and aspirations.” - petronastwintowers.com

Islamic Arts Museum

“The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular attractions, and well-regarded as Southeast Asia’s largest museum of Islamic art. Housing extensive collections of Islamic decorative arts from all over the world, this stunning building is located at the fringe of the 227-acre Lake Gardens and is accessible within a five-minute walk from the National Planetarium and National Mosque.” - hotels.com PHOTO: TOURISM MAL AYSIA

Chinatown, Merdeka Square & Bukit Nanas

“You don't have to look too hard to find traces of old KL in Chinatown's shophouse-lined streets, which border the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. This is where the city was born, reached its teenage years with the development of Chinatown and celebrated its late 20s with the establishment of the British colonial ensemble around Merdeka Square.” - Lonely Planet

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CMY

Kampung Baru

“In a small corner of downtown Kuala Lumpur, a slice of village life still exists among the growing metropolis that is Malaysia’s capital. It is a rare survivor of the almighty wrecking ball, swung by those in charge of urban redevelopment. Kampung Baru has been populated since the 1880s and today has become an amalgamation of seven villages over a 100-hectare area downtown.” - travel.cnn

Batu Caves

“Batu Caves, one of Kuala Lumpur’s most frequented tourist attractions, is a limestone hill comprising three major caves and a number of smaller ones. Located approximately 11 kilometres to the north of Kuala Lumpur, this 100-year-old temple features idols and statues erected inside the main caves and around it. Incorporated with interior limestone formations said to be around 400 million years old, the temple is considered an important religious landmark by Hindus.” - hotels.com

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is a leading business-to-business publication promoting and showcasing the leading companies across an array of sectors on the continent. Appearing in both digital and print, the publication is aimed at boardroom members and hands-on decision makers, reaching more than 220,000 business executives. Every other month we feature leading companies and business executives by profiling their operations and success stories. Covering areas of best practice, capital investments, the supply chain, innovation and continuous improvement, we aim to promote all that is good about the industry and the region, with your company taking centre stage throughout it all. Producing business profiles across the full range of sectors and every corner of the continent, Asia Outlook is the platform to promote your business success.

Read on for this monthâ€™s profiles. Phoebe Calver, Deputy Editor phoebe.calver@outlookpublishing.com

If you want to enjoy the exposure and coverage we can offer, please feel free to contact us to discuss the opportunity further. Tell us your story and weâ€™ll tell the world. Matthew Staff, Editorial Director Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 655 matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com

M E R X

C O N S T R U C T I O N

M A N A G E M E N T

Making it

Happen n 2001, Merx Construction Management was built upon a focus of providing clientrepresentative consulting services, working within the building, construction and fit-out sectors. With its headquarters perfectly placed in the heart of Southeast Asia, the Companyâ€™s service remit covers Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia; while also operating

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Merx demonstrates an ethos of complete passion in every corner of its work, delivering on great projects in a truly independent way Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Tom Cullum

wholly-owned offices in both Malaysia and Hong Kong. Over the years Merx has specialised in independent consultancy services, including project management, construction management, cost management and client representation. The Company has continued to develop and hone its service offering to clients, working from its offices located in Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Myanmar and delivering on projects

ASIA

Genting HK, Zouk Clark Quay, Singapore

across the construction, real estate and hospitality sectors. Providing clients with complete management of their construction projects has bestowed Merx with vast and in-depth knowledge when it comes to the industry, as well as an ability to play a lead management role on all aspects of an asset’s lifecycle.

Truly regional business

It has proven vitally important for companies such as Merx to secure

repeat business and management of regional accounts, corporate accounts and large-scale projects across Asia. The Company has continued to maximise its relationships with each client and pass on benefits to each client. “We are currently working on projects for clients in eight capital cities within Asia, meaning we are proudly a truly regional Asian business,” explains William Forwood, Managing Director and Founder of Merx. “This

achievement has been reached by entering into new markets in a tactical manner, enacting the proper research and assessment of economic demand and real estate opportunities.” The Company carefully handpicks experienced professionals with qualifications in the relevant fields of project management, construction management and cost management to drive on Merx and its ambitions. “As an SME, we attract and retain staff that feel particularly comfortable

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M A N A G E M E N T

TARKUS INTERIORS Tarkus Interiors is a leading interior fit-out specialist in office space and retail projects. Established in 1990, the Company originally started with six staff and now have more than 200 workers with annual revenue of around 66 million Singapore dollars. Having in-house production facilities allows the Company to produce highend furnishing with timely delivery. As a subsidiary of Japanese group, Itoki Corporation, the Company is currently striving to strengthen its business platform in Singapore, leading to expansion of business into overseas markets. T +65 6285 6142 F +65 6286 5695 E tarkus@singnet.com.sg

www.tarkus.com.sg

AXA Insurance, Singapore

working in a predominantly noncorporate culture, with a nonhierarchical management structure,” affirms Forwood. “We have found that this structure emboldens and empowers staff and we provide continuous training to support this; a mixture of pure on-the-job training with external sources and live training for new systems and processes.” The Company manages the delivery of top-class projects for clients, working across four key sectors; namely corporate office interiors, hospitality and leisure, retail, and industrial new builds. Forwood continues: “During our 15 years in the business, we have successfully delivered hundreds of projects, all of which are individually very special. “There are a few that do stand out as particularly iconic, and some that come to mind are the Light and Water Show for Marina Bay Sands in

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During our 15 years in the business, we have successfully delivered hundreds of projects, all of which are individually very special

Singapore, the Luge expansion project on Sentosa, the Porsche Design retail store in Shanghai, and the new aircraft hangar for Jet Aviation at Seletar Airbase in Singapore. Along with this are the many corporate office projects we have done for companies like Trafigura, Macquarie Bank, AXA and Bloomberg throughout Asia.”

Specialist project management

It is important to remember that Merx is an independent company, owned by its key management staff working within the firm. “Currently we are researching the latest design and virtual reality equipment that is entering the industry in both Hong Kong and Singapore,” adds Forwood. “We have also been working with an Australian client on the complete pre-fabrication of hotel rooms made in China being shipped to sites in Western Australia which we see as an exciting prospect for the future.”

We believe in balancing function with aesthetics.

Expanding Horizons

We are more than an interior contractor and manufacturer but rather a partner who shares and appreciates their artistic expressions and designs. PROFESSIONAL. COMFORTABILIT Y. RELAXATION

Tarkus Interiors Pte Ltd 46 Defu Lane 9, Singapore 539286 T:Â +65 6285 6142 | Â tarkus@singnet.com.sg

www.tarkus.com.sg

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C O N S T R U C T I O N

M A N A G E M E N T

FACILITY LINK

n a decade of collaboration, Facility Link has gone a long way back with Merx. The Company has always held in high regard the professionalism, integrity and expertise of the Merx team, and has fostered a lasting relationship based on mutual understanding and respect. The Company recently collaborated with Merx on the fit-out project for ING Bank at Guoco Tower Levels 11-13. At 70,000 sq ft of prime office space, this 12-week project was fast-paced with high-specification. The Company proudly announces that the project was successfully handed over on-time, on-budget and we trust, to the complete satisfaction of ING Bank. T +65 64382822

The Great Office, One George Street, Singapore

As a consultant service provider, Merx is engaged by its clients on a fee basis in order to manage all aspects of a project’s successful delivery. “Our projects are carried out stringently alongside the Merx values of agility, collaboration and passion, which has helped to shape the way we work and continues to improve our business operations,” describes Forwood. “The overriding philosophy at Merx is to create best value for our clients and deliver great projects, and these strategies have enabled us to continue to improve our services as well as expanding. “Our services have developed over the years through internal engagement and workshop sessions along with continuous feedback, while ensuring we always listen to our clients.” Another philosophy of the Company is to always remember that it is in the business for the long-haul - as it enters its 16th year in the business - serving as a great comfort to clients looking

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www.facilitylink.asia

POWER SMART

Our projects are carried out stringently alongside the Merx values of agility, collaboration and passion, which has helped to shape the way we work and continues to improve our business operations

fter several years of hard work and expansion, Power Smart has grown exponentially in the past five years, and has become one of the leading interior building contractors in Hong Kong and Shanghai. The Company place client satisfaction at the top of its agenda, achieved by working with clients through all stages of projects, from initial consultation to completion. The Company’s unique market position of employing its own work force allows constant control of quality and workmanship on every project.

T +852 2690 5309

www.powersmart.com.hk

ASIA

Builderâ€™s at Heart, Future in Mind Facility Link Pte Ltd 4 Sungei Kadut Crescent, Singapore 728688 T: +65 64382822

F: +65 64382411

enquiry@facilitylink.asia

Distinctive quality, environmental consciousness and unparalleled customer service is the heart of Facility Link.

www.facilitylink.asia

For more information get in touch! 18/F, No. 164 Wai Yip Street Kwun Tong Kowloon T: +852 2690 5309 F: +852 2690 5004 www.powersmart.com.hk

Power Smart promises to be your one-stop solution to all your commercial and interior contracting needs. At Power Smart, quality is our endless quest. Thatâ€™s why we hire and train our own pool of talents such as project managers, site supervisors and workmen, and provide them with a happy and comfortable working environment.

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M E R X

C O N S T R U C T I O N

M A N A G E M E N T

SANBASE INTERIOR CONTRACTING LTD

anbase Interior Contracting Ltd is an interior fit-out services provider established in 2009, principally engaged in carrying out fitting-out works for Grade A office premises in the CBDs in Hong Kong, with major clients in the finance and professional services sectors. T +852 2870 0883

Uber, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

for equally long-term, committed relationships in the sector.

Merx Hospitality

Merx has taken its extensive experience and combined its bestin-class skill when it comes to project planning, cost management, feasibility analysis, programing, design management, procurement, supply chain, knowledge and quality control to achieve global success in hospitality construction. “Excitingly we are working on some great projects for many inspiring clients across the region,” explains Forwood. “A few that come to mind include a new IHG Holiday Inn hotel in Penang, a new Mecure hotel in Yangon, a large campus hub for the WPP advertising group in Kuala Lumpur and a private members club in a heritage listed building in Singapore.” Merx Hospitality is a particularly exciting enterprise for the Company and it has been responsible for the

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DLE M&E PTD. LTD

Excitingly we are working on some great projects for many inspiring clients across the region... A few that come to mind include a new IHG Holiday Inn hotel in Penang, a new Mecure hotel in Yangon... and a private members club in a heritage listed building in Singapore

ased in Singapore, DLE M&E Pte Ltd has more than 35 years of experience in the mechanical and electrical fields. Being a one stop integrated M&E specialist, the Company is registered with the Building & Construction Authority of Singapore (BCA) with the highest grading of L6 in integrated engineering, air conditioning, refrigeration and ventilation works and electrical engineering workheads. With more than 300 staff, the Company has successfully completed many projects for a diverse portfolio of clients, spanning from fast-paced addition, alteration and renovation projects to new developments for the commercial, industrial, residential and healthcare sectors. T +65 6747 8633 E admin@dle.com.sg

www.dle.com.sg

Interior fit-out services based in Hong Kong

ASIA

T: +852 2870 0883 | F: +852 2870 0889

Founded in 2009, Sanbase Interior Contracting Ltd. is a leading fit-out solutions provider for Grade A offices in Hong Kong. Our clients include prominent financial institutions, insurance companies and other multi-national companies. With an experienced management team, solid execution experience and close relationship with over 370 subcontractors, we have a strong track record and thus have gained a well-established reputation in the interior fit-out solutions industry. Sanbase Interior Contracting Limited Room 1601-05, 16th Floor, Loon Kee Building, 267-275 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong

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M E R X

C O N S T R U C T I O N

M A N A G E M E N T

A-POWER ENGINEERING

-Power Engineering Pte Ltd aims to provide project management in both mechanical and electrical (M&E) services. The Company has built up a strong technical team, providing total solutions to business partners, from project planning to execution and completion. Services range from design and installation, to commissioning works and maintenance support, with responsibility to ensure that customers’ assets are in full working order in a timely and efficient manner. Evolving with each challenge, the Company aspires to be future leaders in service excellence, by providing our customers with reliable, high-value M&E solutions that will keep their businesses going strong.

Schroders, CapitaGreen, Singapore

www.apower.com.sg

Looking forward we hope that by 2021 when we celebrate our Company’s 20th anniversary, we will still be running brilliant projects for great clients and ‘making it happen’

planning, design, procurement and construction of numerous facilities throughout Southeast Asia. The combination of Merx’s industry experience and its ability to offer clients innovative, cost-effective and reliable project management solutions enables it to perfectly tailor for the individual business needs of each company. Merx Hospitality is widely recognised for its ability to provide a holistic approach, alongside meeting the challenging projects scheduled by clients and working with clients,

consultants and developers to provide a successful outcome. “Looking forward we hope that by 2021 when we celebrate our Company’s 20th anniversary, we will still be running brilliant projects for great clients and ‘making it happen’,” concludes Forwood. “Merx will be running larger scale projects across more cities in Asia and may have even created a larger footprint by then. Technology and disruption will have kicked-in fully and the new systems and ways of working will be all around us.”

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Schroders, CapitaGreen, Singapore

ASIA

Your outsourcing partner in project & maintenance management Ensuring your business is well-supported and secure with our total coverage in innovative and value-added M&E solutions since 1999.

Achieving Quality Standards!

A-POWER ENGINEERING Pte Ltd

51 Bukit Batok Cresent #06-28 Unity Centre Singapore 658077

(65) 6765 1378 / (65) 6791 9397 general@apower.com.sg www.apower.com.sg

Â»

DA-QIAO ENTERPRISE PTE. LTD. Tel: +65 6747 5092 | daqiaoent@gmail.com

BUILD GREEN, LIVE GREEN

Clients Satisfaction with Uncompromising Quality! Air-Conditioning, Refrigeration & Ventilation Works Electrical Engineering & Contracting Services Fire Protection System | Facilities Management General Builder Works | Security System

RESIDENTIAL | INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS | CIVIL WORKS ALTERATIONS WORKS | MAINTENANCE

LSK ENGINEERING (S) PTE LTD No 159 Sin Ming Road 04-08 Amtech Building Singapore 575625 Tel: (65) 6553 3955 Fax: (65) 6553 3966 RCB No: 19900237G Email: general@lsk.com.sg Website: www.lsk.com.sg

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L U M I N A

G R O U P

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ASIA

Soulful Design or the Lumina Group, reputation is the key to success and acts as the driving force behind every action within the Company. It could be said that maintaining such an impeccable reputation over a sustained period of time has been the hardest job Lumina has undertaken, however, it is one of the many areas in which the Company excels. Providing clients with soulful designs and surpassing all expectations in service is just the beginning when it comes to earning respect within the industry, and prioritising repeat clients is equally important to Lumina when it comes to building long-lasting business relationships. “We strive to build strong working relationships with our clients and through giving priority to our repeat clients, they begin to see our service as one of exclusivity,” explains Abdi Ahsan, Principal of the Lumina Group. “Of course with exclusive service, we have had to match our fees to maintain this and our ever-growing loyal clients understand the benefits that come with that. “Lumina also ensures that the effort within its designs is recognised, while also keeping up to date in the market

For more than 15 years the Lumina Group has been driving excellence in architectural lighting design, building long lasting relationships within the industry and continuing to go from strength to strength Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Tom Cullum

with technological advancements that will aid the designs.” Established in 2000 and based in Jakarta, Indonesia, the Lumina Group started out as an independent lighting design firm. Fast forward 17 years and the Group has become a holding company for several works, with lighting at the core of all its business. “Our main business is involved in architectural lighting design, with exciting projects ranging from high-scale hotels, apartments, offices, malls and high-end residences,” affirms Abdi. “Our earlier focus and the main source of our business was in high-end hotels, such as the Conrad, W and Hilton at a time when lighting design was a little

known entity in Indonesia.” Initially a large amount of the clients that required the Company’s service were foreign, however, evidence of the Lumina Group’s excellent work spread and with knowledge gained through every project its workload began to widen. In a continuing effort to widen its reach - as well as educating the industry - Lumina Group has begun to develop separate works to accompany its core business. This work started two years ago and now includes companies that handle middle-range projects, lighting products, education and lighting event organisation.

Abdi Ahsan, Lumina

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L U M I N A

G R O U P

MANDALA PUTERA PRIMA

T MPP (Mandala Putera Prima) provides green & energy efficient lighting, electrical products and A/V controllers to the marketplace. The Company aims to offer value added engineering for lighting solutions and electrical services to meet client budgets and also undertakes requests for custom made solutions. With project experience for various private sector and government institutions, the Company’s variety of world-class products, which include Philips Lighting, Panasonic and Honeywell to name a few, allows the Company’s talented and experienced teams to always be ready to serve customers and clients alike with the values of can do spirit, proactive, accountability, positive thinking and solid teamwork.

www.mandalaputeraprima.com

Lumina has worked on many award-winning projects

Character and philosophy

When taking into consideration the relatively young age of the Group, it has many award winning projects under its belt from the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), including Monumen Nasional Jakarta, ERHA Clinic Kelapa Gading and PERTAMINA Gas Station. “Alongside our ever-growing awards, we are incredibly proud of all of the work we do,” states Abdi. “We are particularly proud of our work on the W Resort in Bali, with another icon being the Mandapa Ritz Reserve Ubud which holds the highest rank in the Ritz Carlton chain.” Currently the Lumina Group is focused on high-end projects, mainly those being developed in big cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya and famous tourist destinations such as Bali. Its overseas work is still particularly popular, with projects in Frankfurt, Seychelles Island and Vietnam selectively handled.

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PT. TRIGLODE LITE INDONESIA

T. TRIGLODE LITE INDONESIA, known as Triglode, established in 2004, is a vibrant and dynamic company providing a full service of interior works and products. The Company also specialises in planning, designing, and project managing residential, hotel and commercial clients from initial concept right through to completion. A key partner to the Company’s success is Lumina, having worked on and delivered various projects throughout Indonesia, with Lumina providing their knowledge and expertise to help bring projects to a successful conclusion and expand the Company’s knowledge on product development. T +62 21 30052760

Overseas projects are particularly popular

www.triglode.com

ASIA

Lighting solution providers & mechanical electrical services

Merah Putih Bridge - Ambon

Simpang Susun Semanggi - Jakarta

Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno - Jakarta

Soekarno Bridge - Manado

www.mandalaputeraprima.com

Certified ISO 9001 & 14001 and OHSAS 18001

TRIGLODE is your Professional Specialist for Lighting solutions.

We deliver top-class technical parameters with extraordinary innovation, design and customisation. Creating a perfect harmony between light and space. Ruko ASTC, Jl. Alam Sutera Boulevard Blok 10G No.25 Tangerang Selatan P. +6221 30052760 / F. +6221 29445594

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L U M I N A

G R O U P

“The nature of our Company philosophy is to work towards developing distinctive character for a local market,” continues Abdi. “This is instead of widening and searching for new markets, however we will always accept works from new regions that fit both our character and philosophy; enabling us over time to develop new regions of operation.” In order to provide the best service in each local region, the Group makes use of extensive technology to support its services, with the use of both hardware and software. “We recently acquired a handheld spectrometer with remote measuring, a 3D scanner, double monitor and render farm,” explains Abdi. “Simultaneously while working on new design approaches, we installed specialist design working lamps that

can be tuned individually to match circadian rhythm. This enables each designer to experience the lighting before it is suggested to our clients, which subsequently improves success and client relations.”

Work on new design approaches is ongoing

Training by working

In order to maintain its excellent success rate and client relationships, the Lumina Group is stringent when hiring new designers. “We have established a three year ‘training by working’ programme to ensure that each new designer has developed the necessary skills in lighting design service to excel,” adds Abdi. “This is all carried out internally and systematically, which includes topics of basic lighting knowledge, lighting design and hands-on project skills.

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“The nature of our Company philosophy is to work towards developing distinctive character for a local market...”

ASIA

Each project is tackled with a unique approach

ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING

Lumina’s work is described as soulful

“In our other internal areas we also carry out training in marketing and research & development, both of which are updated regularly to keep up-to-date with current needs and trends.” The Group also recognises the importance of building close relations with manufacturers, distributors and suppliers. Through providing its design teams with the right industry training and knowhow, management is able to let its staff work with the relevant companies to ensure the right products for the job are being sourced.

Human is the subject in design

When asking its clients and designer peers within the industry, many have described the Lumina Group’s work as soulful. “From our point of view, we have always attempted to practice humancentric design throughout all of our project work,” adds Abdi. “We focus on how our lighting designs

Wisma Slipi 11th floor, room #1105 Jl. Letjend. S. Parman kav. 12 Jakarta 11480, Indonesia P: +62 21 5305865 / 66 Email: budilistijadhi@indoliteprima.co.id

From our point of view, we have always attempted to practice humancentric design throughout all of our project work

can support people’s activities, physiologically and psychologically; it will always be our main consideration while remembering that aesthetics is the skin that wraps it all together.” Each project is tackled with a unique approach and therefore each project becomes unique in the industry. This combined with Lumina’s presentation method ensures audiences and clients are engaged by the Company’s love of lighting. “We always ensure that we provide designs that fit both within the client’s budget and timing,” describes Abdi. “Part of our integral process and our success is our ability to keep an open mind when it comes to project specifications and this is something we will continue to do in the future. “Going to this effort has often pushed us to design incredibly creative solutions and sourcing hidden gems that we had never heard of. It is this innovation that we hope will drive us on in the industry in the future.”

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T H Y S S E N K R U P P

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E L E V A T O R

S O U T H E A S T

A S I A

ASIA

New

Realm eadquartered in Essen, Germany, thyssenkrupp Elevator is one of the global leaders in its field, having applied unique engineering capabilities to the industry for more than 40 years and in leveraging the resources of parent Group, thyssenkrupp AG. Backed by its parent’s 156,000 strong workforce and an 80-country geographical footprint, the subsidiary’s elevator operations have become quite significant in Southeast Asia, where it is expected to capitalise concertedly on growing opportunities in the area over the next few years.

thyssenkrupp Elevator Southeast Asia looks set to capitalise on the region’s concerted urbanisation leap via a host of new investments, projects, affiliations and enrichment initiatives Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Tom Cullum

“The elevator and escalator market in Southeast Asia is expected to see fairly stable and improving growth at CAGR seven percent over the next three years, driven mainly by rapidly growing cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh and Jakarta,” affirms thyssenkrupp Elevator Southeast Asia’s Chief Executive Officer, Jorg Kaiser. “In Southeast Asia, we currently operate in nine countries with offices located in Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Myanmar, Thailand and Cambodia. And while our initial market entries were via acquisitions, the markets in Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar were opened through Greenfield approaches.”

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T H Y S S E N K R U P P

E L E V A T O R

S O U T H E A S T

A S I A

GUSTAV WOLF

henever and wherever safety and quality are a priority, Gustav Wolf wires and ropes are available – you can always rely on our 130 years of expertise. Through our global network of locations and distributors we can provide you the best product, local service and technical support according to your requirements.

GERMANY T +49 5241 876 0 E info@gustav-wolf.de

www.gustav-wolf.com CHINA T +86 512 6617 3028 E sales@gustav-wolf.com.cn

www.gustav-wolf.com.cn A globally-renowned brand

Across the region, the Company installs, maintains and modernises elevators and escalators with its subsequent portfolio containing passenger and freight elevators, escalators and moving walks, passenger boarding bridges, stair and platform lifts, and a host of tailored service solutions varying on all aforementioned products. “You can find our elevators and escalators in hotels, offices and shopping malls in nearly all of the cities we operate in,” Kaiser explains. “We support our customers throughout the project lifecycle, from the design through to the end-of-life phase; and in identifying potential projects, we use a key account approach and participate in industry events. “Referrals from happy customers also help to generate sales leads across segments.”

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Driving digitisation

You can find our elevators and escalators in hotels, offices and shopping malls in nearly all of the cities we operate in...

And there is certainly no shortage of “happy customers” to call upon either; having established and cemented a positive reputation in the sector and region over the course of 25 years. “Having grown through acquisitions initially in Europe, thyssenkrupp Elevator reached out to Asia in 1992, starting in China. In 1995 the first manufacturing joint venture was founded in Zhongshan. Nowadays thyssenkrupp Elevator operates in all continents and runs more than 130 companies worldwide,” Kaiser recalls and notes. Reputed not just for this physical expansion and diversification of portfolio, thyssenkrupp Elevator has largely staked its claim in the sector virtue of its unwavering commitment to innovation and continuous improvement. Throughout each year of development, the Company has placed paramount importance on the introduction of innovative

Customer Added Value Comprehensive Solution Provider Extensive Know-how

OUR NAME IS GLOBALLY ASSOCIATED WITH

We produce superior steel wires and steel wire ropes serving all markets worldwide.

QUALITY & SAFETY

Working in the elevator, architecture, shipbuilding, automotive and furniture industries with 130 years of expertise, Gustav Wolf serves our customers with high-quality products, local service and technical support through our global network of locations and distributors. GER MANY +49 5241 876 0 info@gustav-wolf.de www.gustav-wolf.com

ASIA

CHINA +86 512 6617 3028 sales@gustav-wolf.com.cn www.gustav-wolf.com.cn

HIGH QUALITY HANDRAILS RELIABLE AND SAFE

Semperit Rubber & Plastic Products Co. Ltd., Shanghai : +86-21-3711 1788 Singapore: +65-6275 4690 handrail.cn@semperitgroup.com www.semperitgroup.com

Developing, manufacturing and installing handrails for more than 60 years.

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T H Y S S E N K R U P P

E L E V A T O R

technologies designed to evolve not just the business, but the wider industry as a whole. “These developments often require the widening of industry codes in cooperation with regulators and examples include the TWIN elevator that operates two independent cabs in one shaft, and most recently the MULTI - the world’s first rope-less and sideways-moving elevator system,” Kaiser emphasises. “Additionally, we drive digitisation in our industry by using live data in our service operations. Step by step, we are linking our technicians in the field to our systems by means of digital tools to eventually eliminate the need for paper.”

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S O U T H E A S T

Additionally, we drive digitisation in our industry by using live data in our service operations

A S I A

Further examples of such innovation include the roll-out of a maintenance solution - called MAX - through which service engineers and technicians will receive real-time alerts for pre-issue repairs, enabling them to be more proactive with customers. “This will be the elevator industry’s first real-time, cloud-based predictive maintenance solution and is a great example of the continuous investments that we make to benefit our employees and customers who are both integral to our success,” the CEO continues. “We are also driving digitisation by investing in digital tools and the cloud. For instance, our forthcoming virtual showroom in the Hong Kong office will provide

ASIA

“We support our customers throughout the project lifecycle, from the design through to the end-oflife phase...”

“This will be the elevator industry’s first real-time, cloud-based predictive maintenance solution...”

“In Bangkok, we have set up a model for training technicians on our new lift control system that will enable us to supervise and update control software through the cloud.”

“All of our offices are equipped with state-of the-art training facilities, serving as the local arms of our global education strategy...”

customers with innovative experiences of our products through the use of HTC-vive goggles and other tailormade programs. “In Bangkok, we have set up a model for training technicians on our new lift control system that will enable us to supervise and update control software through the cloud.” The office in Hong Kong especially represents yet another significant forward-move, as one of the new premises - alongside Malaysia that has been move into of late to improve conduciveness for employee training and enrichment even more extensively.

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S O U T H E A S T

Taking a leap

“Dedicated and well-trained employees are our greatest asset,” Kaiser affirms to this end. “All of our offices are equipped with state-of the-art training facilities, serving as the local arms of our global education strategy; while we also have seed campus, our unique in-house learning organisation, which enables employees to continue learning about all fields, technically as well as administratively. Integrated into a global network of 17 locations, seed campus delivers learning to management, office staff and field technicians.” thyssenkrupp Elevator also instils a strong sense of diversity and responsibility into its human resource

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We also have a strong presence in the infrastructure and commercial segments in Bangkok, Hong Kong, Hanoi and Indonesia

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ethos, committing itself to a corporate policy that values diversity and that encourages on-the-job training virtue of numerous academic affiliations across the region. In each specific country, a strong localisation philosophy is also embraced so as to invigorate sustainable talent pools with the future in mind. And this same tactic is applied to its supply chain management approach as well whereby a considered sourcing programme has been initiated to ensure that each local entity purchases standardised technical components which simultaneously maintain thyssenkrupp’s brand promises. The result: a series of projects implemented at some of the

region’s most significant and notable landmarks, as Kaiser details: “We have installed iwalks - which are walkways with very flat bodies so they can be put on the floor without recesses - in Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Bali Airport, and most recently in Jakarta Airport and the Taipei Metro. “We also have a strong presence in the infrastructure and commercial segments in Bangkok, Hong Kong, Hanoi and Indonesia. One iconic example is Hanoi Landmark Tower, the tallest building in Vietnam, where we installed 72 elevators.” When compared to standard product lines, thyssenkrupp Elevator - in Southeast Asia and indeed the rest of the world - continues to

These emerging economies are taking a leap and making investments in a number of urbanisation projects...

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introduce such innovations and to offer technology outside of the current realm, in order to take digitisation to the next level; a differentiator which will impose on the industry more successfully in the years to come as the region’s aforementioned growing cities reach their economic and industrial potential. “These emerging economies are taking a leap and making investments in a number of urbanisation projects,” Kaiser concludes. “This is likely to create demand for elevators and escalators both directly from metro or public transportation projects as well as indirectly through the property construction projects going along with the urbanisation plan.”

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L & A

C O N S T R U C T I O N

L I M I T E D

Flight to QUALITY t L&A Construction Limited profitability is not the primary objective for the family run business, instead focusing on ensuring the delivery of high quality projects while building trusted relationships with clients. Chairman of the Company, Sir Luciano Cragnolini arrived in Papua New Guinea (PNG) - having left his home country of Italy - on December 9, 1967. His exceptional understanding of the PNG industry began with installing pre-cast concrete beams for the construction of the administration building; during stage one of the University of PNG (‘UPNG’)’s construct in Waigani. Only five years later - in joint partnership with his late brother, Arrigo Cragnolini - he formed L&A Bricklayers Pty Ltd, the name which preceded the current L&A Construction Limited. “In our earlier years, L&A adopted a sub-contractor role which specialised in block work, tiling and specialist finishes including Italian marble and granite,” explains Adriano Cragnolini, General Manager of L&A. “Later this product offering expanded to include a wide range of internal divisions, including a steel fabrication factory,

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L&A Construction Limited is a family run business managed by its founder, Sir Luciano Cragnolini and his sons who have used the raw materials of determination, quality and principles to carve the artifact of success within the construction industry across Papua New Guinea Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Tom Cullum

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L & A

C O N S T R U C T I O N

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L&A undertook the first secant piling project in PNG as seen above at the Bank PNG Lae site

MONIER

onier is the single largest manufacturer, supplier and distributor of constructed materials and building projects in PNG Over the years Monier has demonstrated a commitment to quality time and time again, with strict adherence to quality standards which set the Company apart from its competitors in Papua New Guinea. The Company constantly works to ensure it lives up to its reputation for ‘The Mark of Quality’, involving itself in many prestigious civil engineering, construction and building projects in Port Moresby, the National Capital District and Central Province.

Works are still ongoing at Bank PNG Lae

As an integrated business, Monier has developed to a point where its operations are almost completely selfsufficient, no longer needing to rely on outside sourcing for the majority of its critical raw materials, or manufacturing.

plastering, painting, joinery, plumbing, electrical, plant hire and block manufacturing plant.” In expanding its core offerings in such a manner, L&A was able to promote itself as a company of greater diversity and more robust capabilities able to assume a main building contractor role. After 45 years of growth within the industry, L&A is now considered to be one of the pioneers in the advancement of the construction industry in Papua New Guinea.

Company restructuring

Since its humble beginnings in 1972, as a brand L&A has achieved incredible levels of success. This is predominantly due to a determined approach on the part of the entire team to ensure the delivery of high quality services on all of its projects. L&A’s time in the industry has not always been smooth sailing, however, particularly between 2011 and 2015

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Monier manufactures and distributes a wide range of construction materials and building products which include ready mix concrete, quarry materials, reinforced concrete pipes, architectural elements, masonry block wall systems and pavers, and a range of moulded water tanks and septic tanks.

In recent years we have spent a lot of time establishing and developing partnerships with private companies and governmental organisations

Monier also operate a materials testing laboratory that has been independently accredited by the Papua New Guinea Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (PNGLAS). It has significantly contributed to local communities and proudly supports local groups that demonstrate a commitment to improving the standards of both education and health in Papua New Guinea. Monier actively attends to its responsibilities and obligations in relation to health and safety, the environment, corporate governance and community relations. T +675 325 3344 E sales@monier.com.pg

www.monier.com.pg

CORPORATE PROFILE

CORPORATE PROFIL

Building a brighter future for generations to come

Monier is a proud Papua New Guinean company with history extending back to 1958. Our services, facilities, and products, are of a global standard with specialist teams supporting on going research & development and quality control. Monier is the single largest producer, supplier & distributor of construction material and building products in PNG.

→ Readymix Concrete → Bulk Cement → Quarry Products → Precast → Masonry → Reinforced Concrete Pipes → Moulded Water Tanks MONIER LIMITED Monier Compound, Saraga Street 6 Mile, Port Moresby Ph: +675 325 3344 - Email: sales@monier.com.pg www.monier.com.pg

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MONTINA LIMITED

ontina Limited’s business concentrates on the retail & wholesale sectors and offers an extensive range of stocked products for a number of manufacturers who specialise in providing to the building and construction industries. The Company’s management has accumulated a wealth of experience within the building industry and has operated in the country for close to two decades, managing project requirements with attention to detail, from providing architects with recommended product specifications, to supplying and sourcing products globally for the project managers and application methods to contractors.

T +675 323 2449

www.montina.com.pg

High quality internal fitouts of Venezia Estates apartments with all trade works completed by L&A

when a number of foreign building contractors were trying to get a piece of the action in PNG’s construction industry. “Whether it was due to these new entrants having a lower cost structure or desperation in trying to break into the market, we found ourselves being left at the altar on a lot of these tenders,” Cragnolini describes. “During this challenging period, we took it as an opportunity to review our internal structure and operating costs, which enabled us to streamline our vehicle for the next wave of development.” Throughout this period of change, L&A successfully managed to maintain its reputation for high quality service delivery. “Later on in 2015, we experienced what we like to call a ‘flight to quality’,” continues Cragnolini. “A large number of clients were approaching

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During this challenging period, we took it as an opportunity to review our internal structure and operating costs, which enabled us to streamline our vehicle for the next wave of development

L&A after being unhappy with their previous builders’ work, meaning we were able to take a step into both existing projects and participate in new projects. “Since that point, a large number of the new entrants to our market back in 2011 have withered, leaving us in the enviable position of being the builder of choice by many architects and developers in PNG.” By obtaining such a valued reputation, the Group has been able to expand into new markets, providing an abundance of new opportunities while excelling in PNG. “In recent years we have spent a lot of time establishing and developing partnerships with private companies and governmental organisations,” affirms Cragnolini. “This has enabled L&A to become part of the planning and development committee for large-scale developments across PNG, enabling us to sit in the front row of future tender opportunities.”

Call +675 323 2449 www.montina.com.pg

ASIA

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L & A

C O N S T R U C T I O N

L I M I T E D

The renovation of Mirigini House, the Prime Minister’s official residence

Opportunities to grow

For L&A, observing strict disciplinary regimes in carrying out work has ensured that all members within the Company are working to industry standards. Alongside that, each member of staff is provided with a clear understanding of the programme deliverables required to achieve the highest possible workmanship. “In order to achieve the best, we thoroughly believe in supporting our employees in work as well as in achieving their personal and financial goals,” continues Cragnolini. “We back them in their endeavours and give them opportunities to grow. Everyone has challenges and it seems employees in PNG have their fair share.” The Company has an established code of conduct that everyone adheres to, helping to create a structured approach to delivering total solutions for our clients. Cragnolini adds: “When you look behind each of our projects, you will

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ALONGSIDE HIS BUSINESS achievements, Sir Luciano has contributed to many community initiatives over the years which led to his bestowal of the “Paul Harris Fellow” from the Rotary International Club, an Order of Logohu from the Governor General of PNG; and later a Knighthood Bachelor award where he attended an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace to receive his Knighthood from Prince Charles. Sir Luciano is also Chairman of the NCD Building Board and NCD Liquor Licensing Board.

notice that there is a constant aim to achieve a quality finish, while also finding efficient and effective ways to achieve the desired outcome that is both cost-effective and beneficial to our clients.” It is the consistent success of the Company in this department during the past 45 years that has led to the quality of its professional team. A combination of its training, flexibility and more than anything, its ability to work as a team has provided L&A with an enviable reputation within the industry.

Showcasing diverse skill

During its 45-year span in the industry, L&A has worked on an abundance of projects in PNG and further afield. “We have worked on a full span of projects across the industry, a great example being Venezia Estates,” explains Cragnolini. “The staged master plan development comprised three residential towers,

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“WE ALWAYS ADVERTISE in Papua New Guinea forums for Papua New Guineans or people who have Papua New Guinea experience, and who have the requisite skills and capabilities to fulfill our positions. We encourage our employees to undertake external training programmes to further their career development plans which are funded by the Company. “We believe in supporting our employees to achieve their personal and financial goals. It’s about backing them during their endeavours and giving them the opportunity to grow. Everyone has challenges in life, and in PNG employees do seem to have more than their fair share of troubles compared to the rest of the world. Offering support during these difficult times to those good and long-serving employees does pay dividends through the quality, commitment and loyalty the Company often receives in return. Testament to this is the fact L&A has about 10 employees who have been with the company for more than 30 years.”

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L & A

C O N S T R U C T I O N

Manasupe Haus

Formerly known as Marea Haus / Pineapple Building CLIENT : Oil Search (PNG) Ltd / Government of PNG ARCHITECT / PROJECT MANAGER : Pacific Architects DESCRIPTION : 13 Level Redevelopment of Old Pineapple Building now “Manasupe Haus” PROJECT TIME : July 2013 - December 2015

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L I M I T E D

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Manasupe Haus

kitchens, a gym, karaoke building and a centralised services plant, with a further eight residential tower developments on this project in the pipeline.” Showcasing its diverse skill-set in the industry, the Company has also worked on a church at the beach in Porebada, a primary school on Fisherman Island and a diesel fired generator plant at Kanudi. “Our skill-set and resources came to the fore when we were engaged by Oil Search Limitedto undertake the refurbishment of the iconic ‘Pineapple’ building - now known as Sir Manusupe Haus - which accommodates the Department of Prime Minister and NEC,” Cragnolini continues: “As acknowledged by most consultants, this was one of the most complicated building and refurbishment projects to have been undertaken in PNG. “Works included the construction of a sheer wall, two new concrete staircases on either side of the building, a new mass-slab underpinning installed to the

existing building footprint, addition of an extra top-floor, and the fit-out of 13 floors of quality commercial office accommodation.” Currently the Company is expanding its portfolio of projects, branching into new sectors that will enable new directions for L&A in the future. “Our first large project outside of Port Moresby is the current construction of a new cash handling facility for the Bank of Papua New Guinea in Lae,” states Cragnolini.

“Other current projects include a new lecture theatre and library at the UPNG Waigani campus for Cardno TEU, the new school of business at UPNG Waigani for the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and a 14-level residential tower for Brian Bell in Port Moresby.” The Company is showing no signs of slowing down as it moves forward, with future projects in the pipeline including the Angau Hospital redevelopment, upgrading of existing hotels around the country, a planned new shopping centre, and several residential and commercial towers in Port Moresby. “Over the years, we have gained a lot of respect from clients and suppliers alike in the PNG construction industry,” concludes Cragnolini. “We will continue to strive to provide high quality outcomes for our clients, while supporting local suppliers and employees, with the goal of being regarded as the builder of choice by our clients.”

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T H A I

A V I A T I O N

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Win-Win

Aviation Thai Aviation Services Ltd is leveraging more than 30 years of experience through a multi-pronged expansion plan that will generate benefits for the Company, its customers, the industry and the country Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Josh Hyland

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ith more than 30 years of experience, Thai Aviation Services Ltd (TAS) has its sights firmly set on propulsion into new territories and new service remits, as the country’s first offshore helicopter service provider looks to capitalise on its now 100 percent Thai ownership advantage. Incepting in 1987, the business had evolved up to 2016 when the segregation occurred alongside CHC the world’s largest offshore helicopter service provider - but in going it alone and entirely localised, the business has demonstrated that it now has the capabilities to thrive on a similar scale without ballast.

“With the partnership separation between TAS and CHC in 2016, TAS is now totally owned by Thai nationals,” the Company’s Managing Director, Suwanawat Koeworakul affirms. “As a helicopter service provider, our core business has been focused on the oil & gas market to provide logistical support to the offshore production and exploration with crew change, medevac coverage and special cargo requirements. “However, we have also engaged in pipeline patrol and other facets of helicopter needs to the general market as well; for example the film industry, VIP flights etc.” With internal control also comes heightened flexibility though, and

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this list of services is only set to increase in the months and years to come as TAS looks to diversify into areas of tourism, fixed-wing opportunities and MRO activities for both fixed and rotary wings. “Equipment wise, we started off with Sikorsky S76A and S61N and these aircraft were some of the first of Sikorsky’s civilian products in this part of the world,” Koeworakul adds. “Through the three decades of TAS’s history, we still utilise the Sikorsky products such as the S76a series, S76C series and currently S76D and S92A which are the latest in Sikorsky’s product line with the latest technologies.

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ade up of OPS Oilfield Services (Thailand) Limited and OPS Oilfield Equipment and Services Limited, OPS Group of Companies’ culmination is one that has proven itself capable of being a one-stop solution and service provider for operators and contractors across a turnkey array of requirements. Covering technical consultancy services, rig crew operations, well construction completion equipment, inspection services, and warehousing and logistics services, the business has evolved concertedly and strategically over the years to ensure that each element is not only accessible, but is conducted to market-leading standards. “Our main vision comes from our understanding and “service-mind” approach to our clients,” affirms the Group’s President Miss Ratchatanan Kirileang. “This then combines with our extended experience, knowledge, expertise and background in the oil & gas Industry - especially in the SEA and Middle East regions - to provide the optimum offering.” When referring to a “service-mind”, the

development of the business has led to a purely client-centric mindset where understanding each customer and their needs is of paramount importance. Meanwhile, the “professional background” element comes courtesy of Director, Mr OLE Siefert who has been working in Thailand’s oil & gas industry in the region for more than 30 years. “Supporting this is a host of upgrades and standards instilled into the Company on a continuous basis, including the soon to be announced certifications for ISO 9001 version 2015, ISO 14001 version 2015, and OHSAS 18001 version 2007. We are also waiting, in the next few days, to hear good news from AJA Registrars Company Limited regarding upgrades to these certifications.” Humbly proud The successful implementation of the above philosophies has resulted in numerous ongoing works with esteemed clients; primarily around the business’s stronghold and initial focus which entails the onshore oilfields and the Gulf of Thailand where OPS Group of Companies is renowned for offering a one-stop solution to both existing and new clients.

PRESIDENT Miss Ratchatanan Kirileang

“In the past couple of years we have had to follow our clients further afield though, upon their request to work with them on projects nearby,” Business Development Director, John Rattanaveroj notes. “This is because, geographically, we are well located between the Gulf Of Thailand and The Andaman Seas, and this allows us to provide services to Myanmar and also further towards the Middle East. “A good way of defining our success is through the names of the clients we have maintained and enhanced over the past nine years; which includes almost every operator and contractor that conducts their business either in or near to Thailand.” Having worked with OPS Group of Companies, it is rare for a client to look elsewhere in the future, and thus, the relationships formed have been critical to both provider and customer across repeat projects. Miss Kirileang adds: “Once having the opportunity to work with us, our clients become the key success to our business, as we always strive to deliver the expected standards of services to reach our clients’ satisfactions. By doing

DIRECTOR Mr. Ole Siefert

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Mr John Rattanaveroj

this, we - in return - receive natural recommendations that we are humbly proud of.”

represent, while all teams in general work with a professional attitude towards safety and the environment.”

Professional attitude On each and every project, OPS Group of Companies aims to treat its partners and clients as team-members contributing to a wider goal; the subsequent communication and knowledge sharing then translating into a higher standard of services, better quality products, faster response times, improved documentation of proposals, and more efficient after-sales services and technical support.

The consistent adoption of new technologies, equipment and services helps to compound this notion while also opening doors to new opportunities in adjacent domains.

One such beneficiary of this model in recent years has been Thai Aviation Services who have seen, first-hand, the level of technical skills that OPS Group of Companies can offer to fit their bespoke requirements and operations. “Having a full in-house team of trained field engineers and account managers to support operations on and offshore is a massive differentiator in achieving this customer-oriented service,” Mr. Siefert says. “Our account managers are trained and technically qualified for any of the products that they are assigned and

John concludes: “Our strength and logistical advantage derives from OPS Group of Companies being nested in the heart of the Asian Economic Community (AEC) and The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), and across this region, we are prepared and proud to walk with confidence with our partners and clients and to always consider new opportunities. “We are prepared to expand our present services, to introduce new innovations to clients in the region, and to continue hiring experienced local people to support overall sustainability in the country.”

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TAS has ambitions for international expansion

“As for the expansion and diversification of our services, we as a Company are always looking for opportunities. Obviously the oil & gas market has slowed down but TAS is also looking at tourism and VIP services potentially in and outside of Thailand.” With more than 30 years, TAS has the experience and expertise to capitalise on new ventures quickly and effectively, and despite its ownership reverting to a wholly Thai structure, its ambitions are very much international; with Myanmar, the Philippines, Malaysia and Cambodia all potential regions where opportunities exist.

A win-win situation

No matter how far afield TAS expands though, it will look to stay true to the

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TAS prides itself on operational excellence and safety records, and we are constantly looking for ways to enhance our safety systems to ensure that our employees and customers are safe

core philosophies and continuous improvement drivers that have stood the Company in such good stead so far. For instance, “TAS prides itself on operational excellence and safety records, and we are constantly looking for ways to enhance our safety systems to ensure that our employees and customers are safe while working on or using our services”, Koeworakul emphasises. On the employee side of this spectrum, the MD affirms that TAS would not be where it is today if it wasn’t for such stringent safety management systems and general rigorous training; all of which contribute towards an enhanced offering to the end customers.

“We strive to meet and exceed our customers’ satisfaction and KPIs such as high serviceability and dispatch rate.”

“The key to our success is the transparency, operational excellence, mindset, safety performances, and focus on customer satisfaction...”

“TAS is planning to be a Sikorsky Customer Service Centre on S76s and S92s by the end of the year...”

“We are also one of the few helicopter operators in the region that now employ automation, not just in the aircraft but also on the ground...”

ASIA “We strive to meet and exceed our customers’ satisfaction and KPIs such as high serviceability and dispatch rate,” Koeworakul continues. “Our vision has always been to be both an employer and service provider of choice and as testament to this we have customers who have been using us for the past three decades without changing to other providers even though there are plenty of others in the market. “The key to our success is the transparency, operational excellence, mindset, safety performances, and focus on customer satisfaction that we display within every partner relationship in order for us both to experience a win-win situation.” This rise to prominence is all the more remarkable considering that TAS incepted in a country that had no experience whatsoever in providing helicopter services to aid the oil & gas sector. Skip forward 30 years though, and TAS has one of the strongest reputations and track records in the region; all the while remaining humble and remembering the challenging origins it emanated from.

The right thing to do

With the current, ongoing oil & gas recession, the ability - and necessity - to diversify is of paramount importance, but similarly significant is TAS’s focus on refining its internal structures so that the Company is in a prime position to strike when the market does pick up once again. With this in mind, numerous capital investments are being made at present to not just diversify, but to consolidate its repertoire for when its core industry becomes lucrative in the years to come. “TAS is planning to be a Sikorsky Customer Service Centre on S76s and S92s by the end of the year and we are working to get this in place. This will allow TAS to expand our services to not just providing the helicopter services but also maintenance and

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TAS is committed to keeping up to date with market demands

modification services for the region as well,” Koeworakul explains. “We are also one of the few helicopter operators in the region that now employ automation, not just in the aircraft but also on the ground and throughout other facets of aviation.” TAS’s facilities will be upgraded to coincide with its role as a Customer Service Centre, once again epitomising the business’s commitment to always work smarter and to keep-up to-date with the market around it. And this doesn’t just apply to the

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TAS is the only helicopter operator to have an ‘ab-initial’ pilot programme...

Company’s technology and senior management either, with the same dedication to improvement instilled into TAS’s workforce as well; where localisation is a critical ethos. Koeworakul says: “This is a topic that is very important to TAS, not just from an economical perspective but because it is the right thing to do. TAS is the only helicopter operator to have an ‘ab-initial’ pilot programme, which means we hire personnel who have had zero flying time and we send them overseas to a helicopter pilot

Promising outlook

Of course, it can’t simply be a case of training new personnel and unleashing them on the market, however. The ever-changing and evolving nature of the Company, the industry, technologies, and customer requirements makes the notion of individual development a challenging concept to keep on top of. Being a 100 percent Thai-owned entity will go a long way in overcoming this issue though, in forming a much more linear and cohesive chain between service improvements and personnel training on these new services. “TAS has just implemented a new fleet of S76Ds and we are rigorously monitoring the performance and all aspects of this new aircraft type,” Koeworakul offers as an example. “We are also looking at technology which could enhance our operational performance including aspects of satellite connectivity, real-time FDM and HUMS etc. Throughout, reliability and cost effectiveness will definitely play a major role when considering any additional investment in these areas moving forward.” From a footprint perspective, the plan is equally ambitious and proactive, with an ultimate goal of

ASIA expanding as far as is smart to do so. Aforementioned neighbouring countries will inevitably serve as a logical first step outside of Thailand but this could evolve further afield into new regions and even continents as long as it doesn’t jeopardise the existing - successful - model. “TAS is and will always be looking to improve and expand our business to ensure our footprint in the aviation market and support the growth of Thailand’s general aviation sector,” Koeworakul concludes. “We will be playing our part in developing the resources in Thailand’s aviation market for both pilots and engineers, and our longevity will depend on how safe and efficient we are in conducting our operations with competent aviation professionals. “In the future I would expect to see a successful expansion into the MRO fixed-wing and helicopter sector while targeting other areas outside of oil & gas to ensure that we are continuously growing and expanding our operations. We will also continue to judge ourselves on how good and consistent our core helicopter services remain, engaging with the aviation market to ensure that our outlook remains very promising.”

course where they will come back with a Commercial license and instrument rating. “We have been doing this for the past 20 years as well as employing national Thai pilots from the military and retraining them to civilian standards.” In tackling general aviation challenges that exist in Thailand, the Company hopes to have at least 85 percent Thai nationals occupying the workforce in the future as a consequence of its hiring strategy.

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Global Expertise

LOCAL SOLUTIONS

Company with more than 20 years of experience compounded by a workforce with more than 30 years packs a potent punch in an industry where knowledge is everything and differentiators are difficult to come by. For MECIP though, it is precisely this combination of assets which continues to drive it forward to market-leading prominence, having evolved from 1994-1995 to become a turnkey oil & gas and engineering solutions provider working alongside some of the biggest names in global industry. “Back when we became active in late 1995, we provided engineering design and management for building services, before later expanding our scope to provide engineering design and management of plant changes for the oil, gas and petrochemicals sector,” recalls Managing Director, Ahmad Nazari Ashari. “This occurred in 2001 and since then we have established a reputable track record in process engineering, piping and mechanicals, instrumentation, and electrical, civil and structural engineering for downstream plants in the oil & gas sector.”

MECIP is strategically positioning itself to capture a Malaysian oil, gas and petrochemicals market that is set to surge dramatically over the next two years

of the Company, with the other directors providing support across technical and marketing aspects,” Ashari explains. “This is important, as a large percentage of our revenue comes from engineering design services, specifically those pertaining to the design and engineering of changes and modifications in a process plant.”

Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Josh Hyland The result of such a wholesome progression has been an everbroadening appeal to some of the industry’s biggest names including PETRONAS, Shell Sarawak and BP as well as numerous clients in Europe as well. And in nearly all cases, these have proved to become long-term repeat contracts, emphasising the quality showcased by MECIP with each new customer, and each new project. Stewarding MECIP’s impressive rise has been some of the leading minds in the industry, with an ownership that boasts three senior engineers supporting a further two directors and the Chief Executive Officer at the upper echelons of the business. “The CEO runs the management

Oil, Gas & Petrochemicals “Oil and Gas has been the catalyst driving our nation’s economy. We took part in the building of our nation through our involvement within this industry.”

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AECOM

s a fully integrated firm, AECOM connects knowledge and experience across our global network of experts to help clients solve their most complex challenges. We work with the world’s largest and renowned private and public integrated oil, gas and chemical companies to provide design, construction and production services across the upstream, midstream and downstream supply chain. In Malaysia, AECOM had the privilege to work with MECIP on the Detailed Feasibility Study for Petronas Penapisan Melaka Sdn Bhd Integrated Effluent Treatment (ETS) and Management System, supported by our local and international team of experts and professionals.

MECIP is strategically positioned to capture market demand

www.aecom.com

An extremely huge increase

Housing high levels of experience and expertise within the confines of the Company also helps in monitoring industry trends and in forecasting certain fluctuations, a knack which has become significant over the past twothree years as the demand for MECIP’s kind of services reached a plateau. Ashari details: “MECIP has been providing these services to most of the oil, gas and petrochemical plants in Malaysia but since the past two-three years there have been almost no new plants being commissioned in the country. “However, with the imminent completion of the massive RAPID project at the southern tip of Peninsula Malaysia, in mid-2019, we are looking at an extremely huge increase for these services, exceeding 100 percent. This is due to the construction of big oil refineries, numerous world-scale petrochemical plants and other utility plants needed for the project.”

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Building & Infrastructure “We believe in the building of good community through excellent design of building and infrastructure. Our specialist expertise ensures successful delivery of projects for clients and subsequently for the community.”

Consequently and ultimately, MECIP is strategically positioning itself to capture the market when demand does inevitably surge in two years’ time, while the plan in the interim revolves around consolidating its current market position and strengthening internal capacities and capabilities for when the surge kicks-in. “The most important continuous improvement strategy in the meantime is to increase the competency of our staff,” Ashari affirms. “We strive to increase the competency levels of our engineers and design team so that we can satisfy the increasing complexities of engineering solutions that the clients demand. “At the same time, we will continue to be more efficient to deliver solutions at very competitive rates to our clients.”

Footprint, people, future

Simultaneously, the primary projects being targeted by MECIP over the

“The most important continuous improvement strategy in the meantime is to increase the competency of our staff...”

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CSR

“...we will continue to be more efficient to deliver solutions at very competitive rates to our clients.”

“At MECIP, we bring together expertise, ingenuity and passion to make the world a better place. We view CSR as the collective energy and effort of our company to benefit society and the environment.”

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coming years will be in the realm of energy management, with the Company currently conducting preliminary assessments to help a client define the scope of work, so that they can achieve concerted savings in energy consumption at several of their plants. And diversification doesn’t end at MECIP’s portfolio either, with international development also pivotal within the overall evolution framework of the Company.

“MECIP has been active in promoting services not just in the ASEAN region, but also in selected markets in Europe,” Ashari emphasises to this end. “We have been providing services to Norway, via a partner company in Bergen; we are an active participant in oil & gas exhibitions; and we have participated in Aberdeen, Houston and Brunei with the assistance of a Malaysia Government agency, MATRADE. We are also going to Abu Dhabi later this year to

The majority of engineers are recruited from local universities as the result of intern training initiatives.

“...a large percentage of our revenue comes from engineering design services.”

MECIP™ is a private limited (Sdn. Bhd.) company that has been operating since 1994 with a team of personnel with more than 30 years of experience. With financial strengths and vast experience, it is confident in delivering the best quality services that meet clients’ expectations

“MECIP has been active in promoting services not just in the ASEAN region, but also in selected markets in Europe.”

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ASIA workforce. Having recruited the majority of engineers from local universities and as a result of intern training initiatives, the priority is always to hire local candidates; “as long as they are equally good across other attributes like communication and working as part of a team”, Ashari adds. All of these facets combined have resulted in a formidable offering across an ever-expanding market base, and with the 2019 surge on the horizon - as well as a forthcoming listing on the Kuala Lumpur stock exchange - MECIP can look forward with positivity at its chances of realising a long-held vision. “This vision is to provide local solutions with global expertise,” Ashari concludes. “And we will continue to achieve this by remaining relevant and by staying ahead of our competitors with quality services and competitive rates.”

Your trusted engineering partner

participate in the exhibition there. “We are selective in choosing the country that we wish to venture into. Some factors that we consider before we go abroad are competitiveness, ease of doing business in that country and sometimes the need for a local partner.” Back at base, however, the message is very clear: local is best. And in no other way is this better demonstrated than across MECIP’s aforementioned

“We are an engineering services and consultancy organisation who are passionate about what we do and our clients’ success. We pride ourselves in being a onestop solution provider. With a proven track record, we are here to provide innovative engineering solutions for our clients.”

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ENERGY for Everybody, Everyday Carabao Groupâ€™s family-driven philosophy and increasingly recognisable products are combining to further energise an international drinks market already in ascent Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Joshua Mann

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ASIA rogressively becoming a household name on an international scale, energy drink brand, Carabao Group is experiencing its own energised rise to prominence as its evolution from small drink maker to multinational heavyweight gathers momentum. The public traded Company based in Bangkok is only 16 years old, but its ever-broadening array of products can now be found in more than 20 major markets around the world. “In 2016, the Group sold more than 800 million bottles domestically and shipped more than 400 million cans overseas,” emphasises Assistant Managing Director, Romtham Setthasit as a testament to the grandeur that Carabao now enjoys. “Carabao energy drink has also recently signed a contract with Chelsea football club in the UK to be their principle partner, while in January, 2017, we became a proud sponsor of one of the most prestigious football competitions in the UK; now called The Carabao Cup.” Comprising three subsidiaries in the form of Tawandang DCM, its distribution arm, Carabao Tawandang, its manufacturing and marketing division, and Asia Pacific Glass, a glass bottle manufacturing entity; the business has spread its activities in such a way as to capitalise on this new-found attraction, and is compounding its influence even further via a joint venture with Japanese business partner, Showa Aluminium Can of the Showa Denko Group. Setthasit continues: “This is to start an aluminium can fabrication company and also emphasises our international scope as we already have a considerable market outside Thailand.

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In 2016 we shipped more than 400 million cans to markets including Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and other Southeast Asian countries; as well as to the Middle East, Africa, the UK, China, Brazil, Azerbaijan and many more. “All told, the Group enjoys a ratio of 65 percent-35 percent of domesticinternational traction, however, with our strong international policy in place, this is set to become 50:50 in 2017. The overall plan is for this to be 30-70 by 2018.” Expansion derives from diversification in Carabao’s case with its three subsidiaries working in tandem to facilitate overall Group enhancement; whether that’s from a product perspective, or from logistical, distribution or sales-point indicators.

Understand and act accordingly

“At Carabao Group, one of the philosophies is “Ru Jing Tum Jing” which roughly translates as: ‘To

Expansion derives from diversification

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C O M P A N Y

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ICE CONSULTING

C At Carabao Group, one of the philosophies is “Ru Jing Tum Jing” which roughly translates as: ‘To understand and to act accordingly’

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We are proud to partner the Carabao Group in consolidating its operations and subsidiaries to cope with explosive growth and expansion worldwide.

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CRYOGAS

ryogas has 20 years’ experience in liquid nitrogen (LN2) dosing technology for the food and beverage industry. The Company uses liquid nitrogen to enhance product packaging quality and achieve packaging cost saving through pressurisation techniques. Liquid nitrogen also prolongs products’ shelf life through oxygen reduction in packaging head space. The Company’s equipment utilises high vacuum insulation technology, providing highest operating efficiency and lowest LN2 consumption, reducing overall production cost. Cryogas are proud to be associated with Carabao Group Public Company Limited since the introduction of their energy drink to the market. T +603 8051 0982 E info@cryogas.com

Everyday products for everyone

understand and to act accordingly’,” Setthasit notes. “Personnel at all levels at Carabao live by this motto whereby it is okay to make mistakes or to be unsuccessful on new projects as long as we learnt from it.” Perhaps unique in this approach, the philosophy is compounded by the fact that The Carabao Group is still a family-owned and family-oriented Company with the three founders still involved in the day-to-day operation of the business. Inevitably fostering untold flexibility and entrepreneurship through such a structure, it will also stand Carabao in great stead throughout its international migration as customers find comfort in a break from traditional branding drivers. “We believe that to have a less complicated company structure and ease-of-access to the decision makers are the key advantages that we have over our competitors,” Setthasit affirms. “Across all markets,

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Broadening its portfolio and growing in the market

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Carabao energy drinks are identified as ‘everyday products for everyone’. It may sound vague but most of the global energy drink products are aimed toward young adult males who are thrill seekers and adventurous. “Carabao has chosen a different route when it comes to consumer demographics; manufacturing and marketing products for the ‘everyday hero’ who needs energy in everyday life. This brand positioning and philosophy, together with new products, helps us to broaden our categories and to grow in the market.” Similarly on an internal level, numerous capital investments are made on an ongoing basis to facilitate the Company’s own extensive growth; recently epitomised by the Group’s recent increase of filling capacities to gear up for export markets. “We have also doubled production capabilities for glass bottle manufacturing which is expected to be completed later this year,” Setthasit adds.

Water and Environment Management

ASIA

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A valuable and sustainable foundation

A family feel within such a large business obviously reaps rewards from a profit perspective but is also conducive in making Carabao an employer of choice in its various markets. More than 30 percent of the Company’s employees have remained loyal to its development for more than 10 years which is made all the more impressive considering the Group, as a whole, has only been in commission for six years longer. “Carabao does a lot to attract local talents as a SET50 (Stock Exchange of Thailand top 50) Company, and we believe in investing in people,” Setthasit notes. “As the Company grows, we are hiring a lot of professionals to fill the needed roles as well as set up management programmes for young talents that have joined the Company as

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Sathien Setthasit, CEO

management trainees. These trainees are valued very highly on their potential to become heads of departments. “The Group also hires a lot of local employees in the respective markets that we have expanded to. This year alone, we have hired more than 1,000 people to work for Carabao Group in markets such as China, the UK and Brazil.”

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Encompassing areas of corporate social responsibility through its localisation goals, Setthasit further explains the Company’s dedication to wider social enrichment, under Carabao’s ‘Building Values in Life’ philosophy. “This aims to give back to society from economic, social and environmental perspectives,” he says. “In this regard, the Group also establishes social projects as a means to providing a valuable and sustainable foundation of life to various communities.” Two leading projects operating under this umbrella are the ‘My Tambon (My Superb)’ project and the ‘Music for Life’ initiative. The former was established in 2004 with the purpose to instil, support and encourage the youth of Thailand to preserve nature and the environment in their local communities. Submitting an essay documenting their ideas around

“Material Goods from my District”, the project also encourages and preserves the proper usage of the Thai language as part of an overall adherence to education and local values. “The Music for Life project was formed by the Carabao Foundation together with Carabao Tawandang Co. Ltd, to deliver creative social activities,” Setthasit continues regarding the latter. “In 2014, they cocreated a TV show with Work Point TV called ‘Bao Young Blood - Music for life project’; a musical talent show that has been running for three seasons since. “The TV show offers an opportunity for Thai youth, who are pursuing secondary to higher education, to showcase their musical talent through performing an improvised version of Carabao music in their own style, which ensures the project’s objective in promoting the use of free time to benefit the youth themselves, and through developing musical skills.”

Gaining momentum

In showcasing heightened levels of consideration on a socio-economic scale, it can be observed and presumed among potential business partners that the same responsible approach would be applied to business activities themselves, and this has paid off in formulating Carabao’s continuously expanding supply chain.

Nutchamai Thanombooncharoen, MD

ASIA “When you make a billion units of anything, saving one percent per unit is always a million dollar saving,” Setthasit expresses. “New markets are always being entered with our export products, and as a beverage manufacturer, supply chain management can therefore define the success of the Company. “Once a new market has been established the next step in each case is to reach out to produce locally and when the market has reached a certain size then we would consider investing in building our own production facilities. Currently, we have a contract manufacturing in the Netherlands for European markets and we are in the process of securing local production in China and Brazil as well.” Being a truly global entity also enables Carabao to respond more quickly and effectively to industry competitors and to consumer trends; with a better-rounded research & development outlook in tow. “Flavoured energy drinks are gaining momentum in developed markets and in recent years they have become more acceptable among previous nondrinkers,” Setthasit concludes. “We believe we are working ahead of the curve to line up products of our own for the market while at the same time reformulating our products to make sure we don’t get caught by looming sugar tax policies. “In the future, we would want to see ourselves as one of the global brands that have products widely available around the world, and in the next five years I would expect our international sales to be at least 10 times that of our domestic sales.”

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B R O K E R S

Specialist Insurance Solutions Howden Insurance Brokers has been providing leading specialist broker services in Singapore for more than 45 years and in Malaysia - operating as CIMB Howden since 2015, standing the test of time against its competitors Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Stuart Parker

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owden Insurance Brokers has excelled in Singapore’s insurance solutions industry since 1968, and now, more than 45 years later, the Company successfully covers the entire spectrum of property and casualty insurance and has evolved with the local market to consistently meet clients’ needs. A prime example of the Company’s ability to adapt with the market is the recent addition of specialist teams for cyber and merger and acquisition insurance, all of which is supported by the international Howden Broking Group with operations spreading across Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South

Korea and Thailand. “Above all else we are a specialist broker, supported by teams of insurance experts in employee benefits, financial lines, marine and the corporate space,” explains Goh Chye Huat, Chief Executive Officer at Howden Insurance Brokers, Singapore. “We take a lot of pride in these people and their achievements to date.” The Company is moving from strength to strength in the industry, proven by the exciting recent acquisition of Sterling Knight - a leading broker and international employee benefits provider - which perfectly complements the Company’s specialist approach while strengthening its existing services in the region.

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Response to market demands

While looking at the potential of moving into emerging and increasingly beneficial markets, Howden has been primarily interested by cyber insurance. “As part of our research and development, we have noticed that cyber insurance is not only a growing market in Asia, but the world over,” continues Goh. “Considering cyber crime is at the forefront of the public and the media’s attention, we wanted to respond by creating a specialised team to tackle the problem.” Alongside the introduction of new departments - in order to drive efficiencies and regulatory compliance - it is important that

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CIGNA

igna Singapore issues international health policies to registered employers and individuals based in Singapore. With an extensive network of doctors and health facilities in the country and worldwide, the Company is the preferred choice for international health insurance. The Company is dedicated to helping people improve their health, well-being and sense of security. With more than 30 years of experience in employee benefits solutions, the Company is working to create a more sustainable health care system, offering greater affordability and better quality patient care. The Company believes the true value of care should be based on how well patients are treated, not how often.

Malaysia’s stunning skyline

www.cigna.com.sg

Howden maintains its efficient systems to enable the smooth running of its processes across the enterprise. “We will always be customer driven and committed to excellence when serving them, while meeting regulatory compliance needs,” describes Goh. “When I took charge of Howden’s Asia region, the Company was able to initiate the Transform Asia Programme. “Transform Asia envisions a simplified, standard and systemenabled business process which covers the whole enterprise, supported by an industry standard system solution.” Alongside its new projects, the Company has also embraced new IT infrastructural developments to meet its needs. These include paperless business processes in order to digitalise client files, as well as working on cloud solutions to increase efficiencies.

Action under pressure

With its experience in the industry and a true understanding of the local

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market within Singapore - not to mention the fact it is part of a globally renowned broking group - Howden is now able to provide tailored solutions that benefit from the scale, reach and experience of a global business. “Within the market and as a Group in general, we consider ourselves to be young, vibrant and agile,” affirms Goh. “We have been described as the bestin-class among global broker peers and other global wholesale brokers, which we are incredibly proud of. “Over the years we have differentiated ourselves through our actions under pressure, and subsequently the way we then perform while keeping each client’s best interests in the forefront of our minds.” When it comes to developing its strategy moving forward, the Group will continue to develop its solutions by developing and focusing on its original strategy: people, products, distribution and growth.

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ALLIANZ Allianz Road Rangers to the rescue Allianz Road Rangers is part of the Company’s motor claims transformation journey. It features seven touch points including a new 24-hour accident call centre, the Allianz Road Rangers fleet and claims concierge at selected police stations, ensuring that customers experience an easy, seamless journey when making an accident claim. In the event of an accident, Allianz comprehensive motor customers should call 1800 88 6278. To find out more, visit www.allianz.com.my or contact the Allianz Customer Service Associates at 1300-88-1028 or by email at customer.service@allianz.com.my

ASIA

GO DEEP

Dedicated to helping people improve their health, well-being and sense of security.

CIGNA IN SINGAPORE International Health Insurance for Employees & Individuals

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Cigna Global Health Benefits for Employees

Cigna Global Health Options for Individuals

Cigna Global Health Benefits offers your employees and their dependents access to quality health care and benefits, whether they are on overseas assignments or locally based in Singapore. Our medical plans, health and well-being solutions are tailored to meet the needs of your employees and to help achieve your business objectives.

With Cigna Global Health Options, you can personalise a health insurance plan that fits your needs and those of your family. Our comprehensive medical plan includes coverage for in-patient, out-patient, maternity, medical evacuation, health screening, vision and dental.

Experience the Cigna advantage at www.Cigna.com.sg

GO INDIVIDUAL All Cigna products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Life Insurance Company of North America, Cigna Life Insurance Company of New York (New York, NY), Cigna Behavioral Health, Inc., Cigna Health Management, Inc., and HMO or service company subsidiaries of Cigna Health Corporation and Cigna Dental Health, Inc. The Cigna name, logo, and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. 901648 06/17 ÂŠ 2017 Cigna. Some content provided under license.

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Singapore by day

CIMB Howden Insurance Brokers (Malaysia)

CIMB Howden Insurance Brokers - the Malaysian arm of the Howden Broking Group - began operations under the name General Mutual (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd in 1978. Following numerous acquisitions of the Company over the years, in 2015 the Howden Broking Group announced its joint venture with the CIMB Group to form CIMB Howden Insurance Brokers Sdn Bhd. Besides being an insurance brokerage in Malaysia, CIMB Howden wholly owns a reinsurance and offshore brokerage as well as a rent a captive facility in Labuan IBFC. “Nearly 50 percent of our workforce are spread across Goh Chye Huat, CEO Howden Singapore commercial practices,

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all of which are further sub divided into different units,” describes Eddy Hon, Chief Executive Officer at CIMB Howden Insurance Brokers. “We place those with relevant expertise in our general insurance segment, however when it comes to our speciality segment we have to be extremely specific. “Our divisions on specialty includes marine hull, credit and country risks, engineering, heavy industries, infrastructures, jewellers block, affinity and financial lines.” CIMB Howden emphasises the importance of providing full attentiveness to its clientele, being able to achieve this through the use of the right people in-house, and compounded by numerous talent attraction initiatives.

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Specialised teams

Impressively, the Company is able to offer almost all product solutions available within the market, and alongside its general services, the Company is also highly capable in a few niche segments; a prime example being an expansion into goldsmith, gem stone and pawn segment last year. The aforementioned plan has enabled CIMB Howden to command more than 30 percent of the premium turnover in local jewellers’ block business. “Another great instance would include our hull business - specifically in offshore support services - where we have created a specific team to focus solely on the oil & gas industry,” continues Jeffrey Chan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer at CIMB Howden Insurance Brokers. “The people working within this team have the responsibility to learn about every part of the trade, including market conditions, charter rates, contracting

ASIA

Present in 64 countires, AXA’s 165,000 employees provide their worldwide expertise in insurance and asset management to support 107 million customers.

axa.com.sg

terms, vessel specifications and much more.” These specific teams enable the Company to understand its clients’ requirements and needs to a detailed degree, and as a result of such actions it has grown by 300 percent over the last five years. “Providing our clients with a proactive response is critically important, even more so when it comes to general insurance which can be weighty in nature,” describes Chan. “This model has proved particularly successful in enabling us to grow organically, while developing new business opportunities.”

Eddy Hon, CEO CIMB Howden

Regional repositioning

Currently Malaysia is undergoing an exciting phase of liberation with motor underwriting - a retail segment that can be very attractive - as it comprises almost half of the premium turnover of the entire general insurance industry. “We have geared ourselves more

Jeffrey Chan, Deputy CEO CIMB Howden

towards a digital platform in order to breach through the retail space that we have been unable to in the past,” states Hon. “In a similar field, we are also hoping to enhance our solution offering by extending it to other onthe-shelf products.” At present the Company is very much in a developmental phase when it comes to these new initiatives, however it is hoped that an introduction into the retail segment will act as a sizable contribution to profits in the future. “Considering we are a relative newcomer in this highly competitive landscape, through research and a strong regional repositioning of the Company we hope our growth in this new area will be organic and successful,” concludes Hon. “Through our focus on the customer first and the right talent to support this, we will continue to create value for our shareholders and the industry as a whole.”

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H E V I L I F T

Uncompromised

SERVICE

Implementing a vision to provide aviation services safely and efficiently, with a commitment to provide best in-class skill and flair in every project Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Arron Rampling

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evilift Ltd is a Papua New Guinea (PNG) based company with 100 percent PNG ownership, with Landowner content. Hevilift has one of the most advanced and diverse fleet of fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft in the industry, driven by a highly experienced team and a desire to provide top-class service. There is an evolution occurring within PNG at present, and the Company has subsequently adapted

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its continuous improvement strategy to ensure it keeps up-to-date with the ever-changing market. “Twice a year our management team will sit down together and look into our efficiencies, including staff and the calibre of those staff,” explains Peter Cannon, Chief Executive Officer at Hevilift. “We work hard to hire people who possess the right experience, meaning we start with our local market, then regional and then if need be we look a little further afield.” Making the right senior

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management selection is important to Hevilift and recently the Company has demonstrated this with the addition of a Chief Pilot from North America. “We choose the senior roles by analysing experience in the industry we will predominantly be working with, alongside years of contract and similar experience,” adds Cannon. “A vital part of continuous improvement through our staff is training and upskilling our national staff, and bringing in industry experts from all over the world to vastly improve our team.

R E S O U R C E S

“Whether it is pilots or engineers, through adopting this strategy we have been able to develop a multicultural Company from both a national and global standard.” It is very common in PNG to hire from the Australian market due to the close proximity, with many companies also seeing it as a more cost effective method. Hevilift has strayed from that hiring model though, with pilots and engineers trained in country through cadetships and apprenticeships while hiring talent from the UK, Germany,

ASIA

Philippines, Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, Spain and Russia. “As a part of our hiring strategy, we have developed and implemented training systems to further demonstrate our commitment to continuous improvement,” affirms Cannon. “This includes online training which would have previously been carried out in a classroom, and subsequently it becomes more mobile and inclusive.”

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PNG AIR SERVICES

NGASL is an independent commercial entity established under the Companies Act 1997. In support of Hevilift’s operations, the Company provides and maintains safe air navigation, communication, surveillance and air traffic control services to both domestic and international operators within and over PNG airspace. The Company is committed to pursuing global standards of excellence in aviation safety and service delivery. As leading aviation service providers, the Company and Hevilift complement each other’s operations towards meeting the air transport needs of the mining industry in PNG’s remote and geographically challenging terrains. In partnership “WE” contribute to safer skies over PNG. blaceaqui

www.pngairservices.com.pg

Hevilift has an impressive reach across Asia and Australia

Diversity of work

With its head office based in Singapore and regional offices based in Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia and of course PNG, the Company has an impressive reach across Asia and Australia. “Approximately 65 percent of the whole group and its operational activities are located in PNG,” continues Cannon. “We have 500 staff in the region, and close to 50 aircraft which we have primarily focused in the energy and resource sector. Moving forward we are looking to incorporate a larger variety of mining projects as well as oil & gas within the region.” In support of Hevilift’s operations in PNG over the years, PNG Air Services has worked with the Company to provide and maintain safe air navigation, communication, surveillance, and air traffic control services. In the early days, the Company started as a relatively humble regional

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When you look at the structure of operations in PNG... we are well positioned to cope with our now extensive range of choppers and fixed wing aircraft

aviation operator with a combination of aircraft. Over time Hevilift became a strong entity in projects utilising helicopters and particularly Russian helicopters - hence the name Hevilift - since evolving to become a well respected service provider in the industry. Hevilift have become a onestop shop where clients can fly on Hevilift’s fleet of fixed wing aircraft on international sectors, then moved into the field by smaller fixed wing aircraft and the final leg of the journey to site carried out using helicopters. “When you look at the structure of operations in PNG - as well as the environmental issues we regularly deal with - we are well positioned to cope with our now extensive range of choppers and fixed wing aircraft,” states Cannon. “We are able to carry out seismic work loads, carrying heavy equipment that is almost impossible to get in by road.” As well as supporting these large-

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ASIA

R E S O U R C E S

FROM EXTENDING OIL DRAIN INTERVALS TO INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY TOGETHER ITâ€™S POSSIBLE Innovative support for every challenge. With a harsh environment and a competitive marketplace, we understand that getting the most out of your equipment and reducing downtime and maintenance are key to your business. Not only can our technical specialists advise you on the latest products, their technical expertise combined with our services, such as Lube Analyst, can improve your lubrication practices. This means more production and fewer costs for your business, when it matters, which is right away. To discover the depth of our services, go to Pacific Energy.

SHELLE LU BRICANTS

TO G ETH R AN YTHING IS POSSIBLE

Pacific Energy Aviation (PNG) Limited Shell Lubricants Macro Distributor Lubricants Division Port Moresby Jacksons Airport, 7 Mile

PO Box 7352, Boroko, NCD

Providing a one-stop shop for clients

675 325 4444

Lubricants Division Lae Macdhui Street (Pacific Cargo Building) P.O. Box 3681, Lae, Morobe Province

675 479 4488

Sales@p.energy

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H E V I L I F T

PNG is a difficult country to operate in due to a lack of infrastructure

scale projects, the Company also uses helicopters as a means to transport passengers to hard-to-reach sites while adapting and evolving its safety ethos in the process.

Working tirelessly

As previously mentioned, PNG is perhaps one of the more difficult countries to operate in, particularly due to the fact that the majority of the country’s business is still carried out in remote areas with little infrastructure. “The regulations we are working with haven’t evolved yet to that of European standards and we are working tirelessly to meet that standard,” Cannon describes. “For years now Hevilift

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The regulations we are working with haven’t evolved yet to that of European standards and we are working tirelessly to meet that standard

have embarked on a safety-driven culture, and a large part of that includes engaging closely with some of our major clients - including Exxon, Newcrest Porgera Joint Venture (PJV), TOTAL, Oil Search, Anglo American & Highlands Pacific, PNG Defence Force, Pan Aust and Harmony Gold - to evolve and meet their high industry standards.” Through achieving those standards, doors have opened and Hevilift has been carrying out international flights from Australia to PNG for two different clients. Cannon adds: “Our improvements to this area have expanded tenfold each year and we are continuously working to improve our aircraft operations in

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line with international standard over the next two years.” At present, the Company still runs some of the older airframes that are required in the market. As markets develop Hevilift will need to mature the airframes with them. Alongside structural advancements to its fleet, there have been numerous capital investments made to the Company’s technology systems. Through revamping the entire IT structure with new servers, microwave link conferencing systems, software, computers and centralisation of drives, these advancements have brought about a breath of fresh air to Hevilift’s internal workings over the past six months.

Top of its game

Over the years the Company has worked on extensive projects, showcasing time and time again the style of work that Hevilift has become so reputed for in the market. “We have recently started a project where a Russian helicopter is helping to build a school in an

R E S O U R C E S

We have used our time in the industry well to ensure that we are a cut above the rest

area so remote that our helicopters provide the only possible way of getting equipment on-site,” continues Cannon. “Simultaneously, we are also working on the development of a clinic, supporting and setting up the general infrastructure for the clinic by delivering cargo.” It is important for a company’s growth in the industry to consistently

ASIA have projects in the pipeline - preferably long-term - and a prime example would be Hevilift’s work on Exxon projects that have lasted ten years-plus. Alongside its most recognisable work, Hevilift is also involved in medical evacuation, and search and rescue work. This includes making use of its extensive experience in working with helicopters, with a particular focus on training the PNG defence force and their crewmen in order to be ready for response. “We have found a surprising amount of possible paths within our operations over the years,” affirms Cannon. “Although there are many companies that are trying to get in on a bit of the action, we have found that our constant innovation and strategy has kept us relevant and at the top of our game in the industry. “We have used our time in the industry well to ensure that we are a cut above the rest. Moving forward we hope that with continuation of this attitude, our Company will grow and expand to new and exciting levels and markets.”

Continuously working to improve aircraft options

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Your Best

Choice CITCC has already made a name for itself on an international scale, and is looking to apply such industry acumen to a country curerently enjoying a rapid network infrastructure evolution Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Donovan Smith

hina International Telecommunication Construction Corporation - or CITCC as it is more commonly known - has formed an almost unrivalled reputation in the region over the years as a one-stop, comprehensive telecommunication service provider, and has for the past seven years replicated this marketleading influence in the emerging domain of Myanmar. Offering everything from consultation, to operation, to maintenance across the telecommunications field, as well as mobile network construction operations, broadband network construction activities, fibre optical cable construction services, satellite site construction works, and many more; the 60 year progression of the Group has culminated in a formidable portfolio perfectly set up to progress Myanmar’s communications infrastructure. “While our headquarters have more than 60 years of experience, 40,000 staff, nine mainland subsidiaries, nine overseas subsidiaries, and a footprint of more than 40 countries around the world, our history in Myanmar goes back to 2010, before registering on 20 May, 2013,” introduces General Manager, James Shang. “Currently, we have more than 160 employees in the country, with 65 percent of

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The Company creates flexible solutions geared to each customer’s requirements

them local, and within this entity our main business revolves around infrastructure construction services; including fibre optical cable design and construction, telecommunication site civil works and tower erections, MW&BTS installations, site acquisition and design, a fibre maintenance project, and an Fttx project. “In 2015, we also obtained our Network Facilities Services licence which has helped us to even further vary our business in Myanmar, making our focus on customer requirements a key competitive advantage of ours.” Another primary differentiator of CITCC’s comes from its ability to conduct turnkey operations; its service remit allowing for the business to formulate customisable, bespoke, flexible solutions to each customer’s requirements. And in successfully completing a host of projects, from start to finish - from consultancy and planning, through to acquisitions, design, procurement, logistics, construction, and after-sales maintenance - the Company has firmly

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established itself as a contractor of choice in Myanmar.

High speed of development

While affirming itself as a largely local entity in Myanmar virtue of its human resource and supply chain management strategy, CITCC is able to balance this out and compound its significance with concerted international backing from its headquarters in China.

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Inevitably beneficial from a financial perspective of course, it also helps in terms of leveraging new efficiency strategies and in replicating continuous improvement practices that have already been tested and optimised in larger markets. “Because of the high speed of development in Myanmar, many operators are facing cash flow pressures, and CITCC Myanmar is no different,” Shang explains. “This is also where being part of a larger organisation helps though, and our headquarters has given us a lot of support when it comes to policy, cash flow, HR, technology and many other aspects over the years. “We can also then work on continuous improvement areas including quality control, EHS control, management objectives, customer service, and also corporate social responsibility (CSR). “CSR is very important, especially overseas,” Shang continues. “It’s not just the ability to showcase CSR but to establish a long-term friendship between different nationalities and countries. Therefore CITCC attaches a lot of importance to this area of CSR. “An example came in 2015 when the largest flood disaster in 40 years befell the Sagaing, Magwe, Rakhaing and Ayeyarwady areas. We made a lot of donations to assist the crisis in the form of medicines, blankets, towels, rice, water, and candles; while we also joined blessing ceremonies along with Buddhist associations.” And in forming such a reliable, solid and stable grounding to the business, CITCC is able to also capitalise on opportunities that enter Myanmar, or to even drive trends and opportunities on occasions. This is especially the case as the country begins to enjoy the luxury of 4G network speeds, opening the door to an operator like CITCC to harness this potential and to enhance capacities and quality across the network.

“Here, we are like a family and that makes it easier to overcome difficulties.”

“It’s not just the ability to showcase CSR but to establish a long-term friendship between different nationalities and countries.”

Gold award for excellent quality

Award for excellent EHS Management

ASIA The correct selection

The final, and perhaps most important differentiator stems from the business’s aforementioned commitment to personnel enrichment, a localised human resource strategy, and the loyalty that is subsequently repaid by the Company’s workforce. Shang attributes the core facets surrounding this ethos to be fair treatment in the form of job role and salary, as well as through remuneration and internal promotion; and secondly, through ongoing technical transfer and training. “Thirdly, it’s about creating a warm environment, and the result is a very excellent team that we have here in Myanmar,” Shang enthuses. “Nobody complains about the work being difficult or hard, nobody complains about overtime, nobody complains about any customer requests. We just have one collective target, and that target is success. It’s a great honour to be part of the team at CITCC Myanmar. “Here, we are like a family and that makes it easier to overcome difficulties.” And courtesy of each enriched individual is an abundance of experience and professionalism geared towards helping the Company’s customers receive the optimum service. “One by one, we see successful cases of customers accepting that CITCC is the correct selection,” Shang concludes. “And this will only pick up speed more in the future with infrastructure construction still a key direction in Myanmar over the next three-five years. We will therefore work hard to capitalise on our advantage in our respective fields so that customers in the country can enjoy a higher speed of network delivery, a better quality of network, and safe construction of this infrastructure. “To achieve this, we will also place a lot of focus on marketing here in Myanmar, ensuring that we spread the word of CITCC’s contribution to Myanmar’s telecommunications field.

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T E L E N O R

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Accessible EVERYWHERE, Affordable to ALL Telenor Myanmar has undergone drastic changes in the past few years in a drive to rapidly improve telecommunications in the country, establishing itself as a leading figure for others in the industry to follow Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Donovan Smith

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hen Asia Outlook last spoke to Telenor Myanmar in August, 2016, the telecoms industry in Myanmar was undergoing drastic changes with a high demand for mobile data services and network coverage. Telenor saw an opportunity to capitalise on Myanmar’s telecoms sector while enriching the lives of people in the country. A primary goal for this year has been the continuation and expansion of the Company’s mobile network, ensuring that its services were available for all people in Myanmar no matter where they live and work. “Currently we have 8,000 mobile sites in operation and are actively servicing all states and the majority of townships located across the country,” explains Lars Erik Tellmann, Chief Executive Officer at Telenor Myanmar. “We have an impressive population coverage, standing at 90 percent or close to 50 million people, after less than only three years in operation. This enables our customers to enjoy the largest and most complete and reliable 2G, 3G and 4G network service experience.” With the Company’s success over the past few years, it is instilling

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confidence that its rapid investment and build-out - which will provide nationwide coverage on all technology platforms - will be valued by new and existing customers. It is important to Telenor Myanmar that it continues to build-out its services until all of its customers, wherever they live, are fully satisfied with the Company’s rollout.

Gobal data consumption

Telenor Myanmar was set-up to provide world-class communication services to all people of Myanmar, while at the same time ensuring a strong delivery of economic and social benefits to the society that it is a part of. Tellmann affirms: “We measure our success on the satisfaction of our customers, and subsequently through that we strive to find new ways to consistently deliver better and more affordable services.” At present, the Company is placing its focus on bringing out reliable 4G services, giving customers the chance to smoothly stream movies and videos, and to speed-up gaming experiences. It is important to remember that close to 70 percent of Telenor’s 19 million customers in Myanmar are already active data users, with a strong affinity

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FIRST MYANMAR INVESTMENT (FMI)

irst Myanmar Investment (FMI) has sustained its long-term commitment to good business, sustainability and sensible financial management, ensuring the Company is always poised to grow alongside the country. FMI is one of the earliest public companies formed after Myanmar adoption of Market Economy in 1990. After it was established in 1992, the Company became a success due to its strategic diversification, professional management and complete transparency.

to social media consumption. “With the increased data consumption we have seen our total data usage double over the past year. In Yangon our customers are spending on average three hours on internet every day and its growing with new service adoption. This shows that the demand for mobile data is global, and that once people have access to smartphones they adapt similar usage behaviour independent of which market they are in. “There is no longer a divide between a developed and developing country when it comes to people’s appetite for data,” adds Tellmann. “This holds for great opportunities to further digitalise the society, while at the same time it is a huge challenge for the industry to keep delivering a world-class data service at a much lower purchasing power level than the comparable other markets in the region.

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2016 saw the Company achieve a particularly significant milestone, becoming the first Company to be listed in newly established Yangon Stock Exchange, and its associate investment, the Wave Money, becomes the first Company to receive a mobile financial services registration certificate from the central bank of Myanmar. The Wave Money launched its services in more than 160 townships last November, growing to a staggering 10,000 outlets across the nation. Even with its great success, FMI remains level-headed in its approach to business, a factor that will inevitably lead to its cemented leading position in the market. FMI is resolute in its responsibility and duty to the country when it comes to contribute to nation building, while also shaping the corporate landscape in which the Business operates. Through transparency in its operations and solid corporate governance, FMI is able to act as a role model for other companies to look to. As a leader within Myanmar, the Company is always willing to provide its years of experience to both public and private sector companies, ensuring they can be helpful and pass on knowledge where possible. Telenor 4G launch in Taungdwingyi, back in February this year

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FINANCIAL SERVICES

HEALTHCARE

First Myanmar Investment Co., Ltd. (FMI) is one of Myanmarâ€™s largest public companies with more than 8,000 shareholders and an unbroken track record of profitability and dividend payments since inception.

REAL ESTATE

PORTFOLIO INVESTMENTS

First Myanmar Investment Co., Ltd.

FMI Centre, 10th Floor, 380 Bogyoke Aung San Road Pabedan Township, Yangon, Myanmar T: +95 1 240 363 | +95 1 240 373 | +95 1 240 383 F: +95 1 246 882 | +95 1 246 883 E: fmi@spa-mm.com | www.fmi.com.mm

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This flood response is just one of many examples of Telenor’s CSR work

“In order to see this become a reality we need to continue striving for optimisation and enhancements of our network, tackling any areas of improvement that we find together with our partners in an aggressive manner to maximise technology potentials.” Tellmann continues: “A major focus point for us in 2017 has been the ability to enrich our customers’ lives through digital optimisation. A great example of this is the introduction of lifestyle app, WowBox - a free to use one-stop shop for great localised content, competitions and entertainment - and through the app our customers can easily gain access to relevant local news and entertainment.” The WowBox app has rapidly grown in popularity since its pilot launch earlier in the year, with more than one million downloads in the past six months. It is important to remember that it is early days for telecommunications and the digital

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With the Company servicing approximately 19 million customers, we have more than proven that we are a financially healthy prospect with the ability to positively contribute to Myanmar

frontier in Myanmar as a whole, however, the rise in popularity of services such as WowBox is showing great potential in the area.

Rollout continues

Telenor Myanmar has invested heavily - since Asia Outlook last spoke to the Company - in its network rollout and its ability to leapfrog the technology platforms. “To date Telenor has invested more than US$1.9 billion, and looking forward we aim to continue to invest in order to further improve quality and coverage of our services in the coming years,” affirms Tellmann. With additional investments in progress, the Company will ensure they keep up with the rising demand for data in Myanmar and a key tax contributor to the country. “As the country gradually becomes fully connected and the hyper-growth that we have witnessed in the past few years begins to saturate, it is

ASIA

A pioneer of fibre services providing in Myanmar

FIBRE SERVICES - Fibre Full Turn Key Solutions including underground & overhead - Operation & Maintenance of Fibre networks (O&M solutions) - FTTx Solutions - Fibre Air Blowing Services - Horizontal Directional Drilling Machine (HDD) Services

Telecom Equipment & Accessories Sales

SECURITY SERVICES - CCTV security systems - Access control systems - Video intercom systems - Fire alarm systems - IP-PBX systems

Quality is our utmost importance

Hotline - +959-6506405, +959-975728532 Email - info@yadanarbonfibre.com www.yadanarbonfibreservices.com

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important that we are able to exercise discipline and focus on efficiencies in our operations to ensure the business remains sustainable over time,” adds Tellmann. “Telenor is a long-term partner to Myanmar and we aim to remain fully committed to our ambitions for the country.”

Establishing an empowered and winning culture

One of Telenor’s key strategic ambitions in Myanmar is to nurture an organisation rooted in an open and winning culture. Rising local talents are developed courtesy of expert colleagues as part of Telenor’s efforts to transform Telenor Myanmar into a truly local company built on local talents. “Currently 95 percent of the workforce is local. We have been successful in bringing back a skilled Myanmar workforce from abroad, which adds great diversity to our team. We have more than 42 percent female

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“...we aim, with the support of the Government to remain committed to our ambitions for the country.”

representation in our Company, and I am very pleased to have been able to promote two of our local talents to CxO level,” says Tellmann. Telenor has introduced employee benefits spanning from six months paid maternity leave, in addition

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to providing free health insurance, flexible working hours and shuttle bus services. Motivated and inspired employees provides a competitive advantage, and are therefore the Company’s most important asset. Tellmann adds “I want our employees

ASIA

Think Global, Act Local The leading premier passive infrastructure company in Myanmar with 2,800 towers built. IGT is committed to ensuring highest standards of safety, health, security and welfare for all our employees, contractors and visitors. Our moral obligations towards maintaining healthier community and non-polluted society has resulted in several “Go Green” initiatives.

Lars Erik Tellman, Chief Executive Officer at Telenor Myanmar

to be part of a working culture where we all are willing to go the extra mile to make our services outstanding. Building a workplace that empowers employees, recognises and rewards performance and provides for caretaking benefits is among my key priorities.”

New partnerships

As with the importance of the Company’s relationship with the Government, a number of key partnerships have been formed since Telenor last spoke to Asia Outlook in 2016. “A recent agreement for us has been with Myanmar Bureau Veritas (BV) enabling BV to utilise the skills and expertise that Telenor has invested in its experienced supply chain professionals,” adds Tellmann. “This should allow for the benefit of all companies in Myanmar and acts as a prime example of how we can contribute to raising standards for

Enquiries corporate@igt.com.mm procurement@igt.com.mm www.igt.com.mm

We are more than willing to support other businesses in order to aid them and Myanmar in growth and development

Irrawaddy Green Towers Limited International Commercial Center, No.422/426 7th & 8th Floor Bothataung Township, Yangon, Myanmar

all companies and their operations in Myanmar.” Looking forward it is pivotal for the Company that it forms key partnerships such as the aforementioned and that Myanmar will continue to embrace the opportunities that come with it, as well as the opportunities that come with having state-of-the-art digital infrastructure for business. “We look for collaborative ways to support other local businesses in order to encourage growth and development in conjoining sectors,” concludes Tellmann. “We firmly believe that moving forward, it is paramount that we share infrastructure amongst all operators as this will ensure much smarter investment deployment in remote and rural areas, and accelerate access to services for all mobile customers of Myanmar. Today this is unfortunately not the case, and it represents a clear opportunity for the coming year.”

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GTR ASIA TRADE & TREASURY WEEK

E V E N T

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Capitalising on exciting new opportunities for trade and treasury in Asia #GTRATTW

Singapore | Marina Bay Sands September 5-8, 2017

EVENT DETAILS Expand your knowledge and engage with 900+ top-level trade and treasury experts at the largest trade finance conference in the world.

WHEN: 5-8 September

Bringing the Asian trade & treasury community together for almost a decade, this award-winning conference series provides unrivalled access to regional business leaders and trade finance specialists. With delegate numbers set to exceed 2016’s record breaking levels, GTR Asia Trade & Treasury Week 2017 has officially moved to Marina Bay Sands, and is an essential place to be for anyone involved in international trade.

“Great flow of ideas and views. A refreshing and dynamic event.” D Yeo, Toyota Tsusho Corporation

“Great content, very well organised and a very good mixture of delegates.” M Gubbins, AJG

Sectors attended in 2016

WHERE: Marina Bay Sands, Singapore What to expect

WEBSITE: 900+ 100+ 40+ www.gtreview.com Delegates

Speakers

Countries represented

GLOBAL TRADE REVIEW (GTR), theFree world’s leading news source, corporate publisher and event organiser for the passes available trade, commodity, export and global supply chain finance industries, returns to Singapore for its ninthyear to host GTR Asia Trade & Treasury Week. The event will take place at Marina Bay Sands on 5-8 September. The event continues to build on its renowned reputation as the largest and most popular trade finance gathering anywhere in the world, and will provide an effective and impartial marketplace for all involved in trade, commodity and export finance. “This last year has seen global trade brought back to the top of the global news agenda, as various geopolitical

Corporates & traders

46%

Banks & financiers

20%

Insurers & risk managers

11%

Consultants & accountants 7% Govt orgs & public bodies

Non-bank financiers

Fintech & technology

Lawyers

ECAs & multilaterals

For more information contact Elisabeth Spry at espry@gtreview.com or visit www.gtreview.com

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developments have placed globalisation and the importance of countries trading freely firmly in the spotlight,” says Jeff Ando, Production Director at GTR Events. “FTAs, protectionism and the role of China will all be addressed, while commodity trends, trade financing gaps and the role of disruptive technology will also dominate discussions; with a significant part of the programme also devoted to issues impacting on corporate treasury.” Days one and two will focus on agenda topics including: • Protectionism vs multilateralism, realignment towards China, economic trends and scenarios • Trade finance gaps in 2017: The impact on trade, growth and jobs • The Belt & Road Initiative: The jewel in Asia’s crown? • Great expectations: How is the industry preparing for the era of fintech-enabled trade finance? • Trader perspectives on the commodity rebound and challenges in structured commodity finance • Country profiles: Vietnam, the Philippines, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka • Understanding potential threats to trade and economic stability in Asia • The role of insurers in managing and mitigating risk in uncertain times • Managing and financing Asia’s supply chains and the importance of working capital optimisation • Achieving sustainable trade: The challenges ahead • Are more investors accessing the trade finance market? What are they looking for? • The business of treasury: Operational challenges and the strategic environment Don’t miss your chance to join leading corporates and trade specialist for days of discussion, debate and networking.

#GTRATTW

Free corporate passes available

Singapore | Marina Bay Sands September 5-8, 2017

Expand your knowledge and engage with 900+ top-level trade and treasury experts at the largest trade finance conference in the world. Bringing the Asian trade & treasury community together for almost a decade, this award-winning conference series provides unrivalled access to regional business leaders and trade finance specialists. With delegate numbers set to exceed 2016’s record breaking levels, GTR Asia Trade & Treasury Week 2017 has officially moved to Marina Bay Sands, and is an essential place to be for anyone involved in international trade.

What to expect

900+ 100+ Delegates

Speakers

40+

Countries represented

“Great flow of ideas and views. A refreshing and dynamic event.” D Yeo, Toyota Tsusho Corporation

“Great content, very well organised and a very good mixture of delegates.” M Gubbins, AJG

Sectors attended in 2016

Corporates & traders

46%

Banks & financiers

20%

Insurers & risk managers

11%

Consultants & accountants 7% Govt orgs & public bodies

Non-bank financiers

Fintech & technology

Lawyers

ECAs & multilaterals

For more information contact Elisabeth Spry at espry@gtreview.com or visit www.gtreview.com

WORLD CONGRESS ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IOT EXPO 2017

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F O C U S

Access the Asia-Pacific Internet of Things market EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 10-13 September WHERE: Taipei, Taiwan REGISTER: info@industry-platform.com WEBSITE: http://www.wcit2017.org/

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THE 2017 IOT Expo will be held in conjunction with the World Congress on Information Technology 2017 (WCIT 2017), with support from Taiwanâ€™s Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Industry Development Bureau (IDB). The IoT Expo is co-hosted by Microsoft and Asia IoT Business Platform and the event will bring together key stakeholders from across the IoT value chain, with a strong focus on enterprise solutions. The inaugural IoT Expo was held in 2016 in Taipei at the Hua Nan Bank International Conference Centre. More than 1,100 global delegates attended it, representing Taiwan, China, India, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Philippines Singapore, Malaysia,

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and more. Topics that we discussed ranged from Smart City and retail, to manufacturing and Industrial IoT solutions. More than 70 keynotes and 33 IoT applications were showcased. WCIT was first held in 1978 by World Information Technology & Services Alliance (WITSA), which comprises more than 80 members and represents 90 percent of the global ICT market. WCIT is recognised as the premier international IT forum, where more than 2,500 visionaries, captains of industry, government leaders, and academics are brought together to discuss topics ranging from emerging markets and technologies, to legal and policy issues. This is an event not to be missed if you are interested in meeting top IoT stakeholders in Asia Pacific, be it buyers or partners. The event this year will witness more than 50,000 attendees across three days of networking and business matchmaking. If you are interested to showcase your IoT solutions or drive your thought leadership at the event, please contact the organizers at info@industry-platform.com

LAST MILE ASEAN

E V E N T

F O C U S

ASEANâ€™s online retail distribution conference and expo LAST MILE ASEAN CONFERENCE & EXPO 2017

SEPTEMBER 2017 E V E N TBITEC, D EBANGKOK TAILS WHEN: ASEANâ€™S 28-29 September ONLINE RETAIL DISTRIBUTION

WHERE: CONFERENCE Conference&Hall, Silk 1-4, BITEC, EXPO Bangna, Bangkok, Thailand CONTACT:

prashant@manchcommunications.com Association Support

WEBSITE: www.lastmileasean.com

Media Partners

act Detail:-

hant Narain +66-2-103-4863 rashant@manchcommunications.com

e com Powered by

LAST MILE ASEAN (Lma) Conference and Expo 2017, Powered by ecommerce Logistics Show is the only dedicated fulfillment event covering supply chain, operations, ecommerce, logistics, parcel, and delivery for multichannel retail industry. The event will immerse you in two days of inspiration, learning and networking with more than 150 industry experts from leading ecommerce, retail, postal operators, courier and express companies and fulfillment and logistics companies to debate current issues and form business relationships on a global scale. The free-to-attend Last Mile ASEAN Exhibition will provide an excellent opportunity to get a first-hand look at new services, innovations and Produced by

nathon Sonsurat (Pun) Logistics Show +66-646816957 WWW.ASIAOUTLOOKMAG.COM 140 unnathon@manchcommunications.com

technologies that can help transform and develop your business.

About the organiser

Manch Exhibitions is a specialist trade show and professional conference organiser based in India and Thailand. Their objective is to create a portfolio of events which caters to a variety of industry sectors while providing them with meaningful platforms for business, learning and networking. Manch is an active member of trade bodies such as UFI; the global association of the exhibition industry, AFECA, EXSA, JCCI and IEIA. The Xompany also formed Reed Manch Exhibitions India, a JV company in partnership with Reed Exhibitions, UK in 2012.

LAST MILE ASEAN CONFERENCE & EXPO 2017

SEPTEMBER 2017 BITEC, BANGKOK ASEANâ€™S ONLINE RETAIL DISTRIBUTION CONFERENCE & EXPO

Association Support

Media Partners

Contact Detail:-

Prashant Narain M : +66-2-103-4863 E :prashant@manchcommunications.com Punnathon Sonsurat (Pun) M : +66-646816957 E :punnathon@manchcommunications.com

e com

www.LastMileAsean.com

Logistics Show

Produced by

H I J A PA N

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The must-attend event to witness the next step in the functional ingredients industry

n Asia!

dients doors to

ers and arket at

utritious

no onal billion

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 4 –October 6 October 2017 4-6 Tokyo, Japan

WHERE: Tokyo, Japan

@FiGlobal

WEBSITE: Search for Food Ingredients ubm.figlobal.com/japan-book-now

t on booking a great global.com/japan-book-now 142

HI JAPAN IS the leading functional and health ingredient show in Japan and also Asia’s largest ingredients trade show. Serving the Asian functional and health ingredient markets for more than 25 years, Hi Japan brings in exhibitors who exclusively don’t exhibit at any event; offering visitors access to exclusive functional and health ingredients with limited distribution outside of the Asian food market. With the rapid growth of the health food market, Hi Japan is the mustattend event to witness the next step

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in the functional ingredients industry. Discover the latest trends from not only the Japanese health food market but also those from neighbouring Asian countries, with Hi Japan bringing more than 200 exhibitors. Attending Hi Japan you’ll be putting yourself at the forefront of the functional food, supplement and nutraceutical market in both Japan and the rest of Asia; identifying the key ingredients that will shape the market and valuable ways of their applications. The only exhibition for food safety and quality control in Japan, S-Tec Japan answers all your questions regarding food safety. The event also unites industry experts to answer the tough questions on; safety and hygiene, technology of powdered/liquid food, environmental technology, and packaging technology. Bringing together exhibitors and experts with best practice examples and understanding the latest legislations, the event offers the best networking opportunities with production, quality control and R&D professional. S-Tec Japan is the must attend event for keep your organisations safe and compliant in the industry world of food and beverage. New to 2017, FiT Japan is a whole new show co-located next to Hi Japan. FiT Japan will showcase exhibitors demonstrating the latest in food technology to create longer lasting and better tasting food. Created out of the boom from consumers’ increased focus on their health and the foods they eat, you can now browse the latest innovative solutions to help consumers’ food taste better, for longer and with exciting new flavours, textures and colours. Registration for Hi Japan and its co-located shows is completely free.

Showcase in the largest functional and health ingredients exhibition in Asia! With a reputation for serving the health ingredients industry for 27 years, Hi Japan is opening the doors to this growing market in 2017. An outstanding opportunity to meet 600+ supplement and functional food manufacturers and 40,000+ visitors seeking for ingredients in a market at the epicentre of innovation. With a consumer demand for healthy and nutritious foods and a willingness to pay high prices for quality and convenience, it’s no wonder Japan has the world’s largest functional food and supplements market, valued at 28 billion USD in 2015.

4 – 6 October 2017 Tokyo, Japan @FiGlobal Search for Food Ingredients

Don’t miss out on booking a great stand location: ubm.figlobal.com/japan-book-now Scan this QR code to step in the exciting world of Food ingredients events

Fi Europe

Fi Asia Fi Russia

Fi Vietnam

Fi South America

Fi India

Hi China

Hi Japan

Fi Istanbul

Hi Europe

Halal Asia

Hi South East Asia

Hi Korea

INDONESIA TRADE & COMMODITY FINANCE CONFERENCE 2017

E V E N T

F O C U S shop of information and acts as the ultimate resource for the global trade, commodity and export finance communities. The conference will gather leading representatives from Republic of Indonesia, Indonesian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Kadin), Christian Teo & Partners, PT Jindal Stainless Indonesia, PT Indonesia Infrastructure Finance (IIF), PwC Indonesia, Asia Internet Coalition, Corechain, MUFG, ICICI Bank and many more.

Who will you meet?

Indonesia’s premier trade gathering #GTRINDO

AS SOUTHEAST ASIA’S largest economy, ranked 16th in the world, and GDP growth reaching around 15% discount$247,136 million in the first quarter of code: OUTLOOK15 2017, Indonesia plays a crucial role in S ASEAN. Recognised as a locally-driven economy, Indonesia is expected to outperform other export-dependent economies in Asia during 2018. Global Trade Review (GTR), the world’s leading news source, publisher and event organiser for the global trade, commodity and export finance markets, will return to Jakarta on 5 October for the Indonesia Trade & Commodity Finance Conference 2017. With an unparalleled base of contacts and a wealth of industry experience GTR offers a one-stop

Indonesia Trade & Commodity Finance Conference 2017 Jakarta, Indonesia | Mandarin Oriental October 5, 2017

EVENT DETAIL Indonesia’s premier trade gathering

WHEN: 5 October

Outlook readers who are exporters, importers, manufactures distributors, trader & producers of physical goods can receive a free corporate rate pass to attend the conference. Highlights for 2017 include:

WHERE: Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta, Indonesia ›› Putting the spotlight on Indonesia – Policy updates, commodity outlook and future developments amidst the economic volatility ›› Trade and commodity financing: mechanisms, structures and evolving risk management strategies ›› What’s next for Indonesia’s trade and finance market?

›› Digitisation of trade financing: Technology trends impacting trade and financing and how can these be successfully incorporated into your business ›› Infrastructure finance and PPP opportunities: Upcoming projects, regulatory updates and financing options

CONTACT: espry@gtreview.com WEBSITE: www.gtreview.com

To register for the free corporate pass please contact Elisabeth at espry@gtreview.com

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• Regional corporates & traders • Banks & financiers • Government organisations & public bodies • Insurers & risk managers • Lawyers • Consultants • Trade associations and chambers • ECAs & multilaterals • Solution providers Join GTR, our sponsors, Mandiri, ICICI Bank, and MUFG, for a day of diligent networking and hear updates on the domestic economy and an outline of the trade challenges which lie ahead. Don’t miss your free passes and discounts on the next page!

#GTRINDO

Indonesia Trade & Commodity Finance Conference 2017 Jakarta, Indonesia | Mandarin Oriental October 5, 2017 Indonesia’s premier trade gathering

15% discount code: OUTLOOK15

The Indonesia Trade & Commodity Finance Conference is the premier trade gathering for domestic and international commodity and export finance experts. Join over 200 regional corporates & traders, banks & financiers, government organisations, trade associations and more for a day of discussion, debate and networking. The event will provide an update on the domestic economy and an outline of the trade challenges which lie ahead. Outlook readers who are exporters, importers, manufactures distributors, trader & producers of physical goods can receive a free corporate rate pass to attend the conference. Highlights for 2017 include: ›› Putting the spotlight on Indonesia – Policy updates, commodity outlook and future developments amidst the economic volatility ›› Trade and commodity financing: mechanisms, structures and evolving risk management strategies ›› What’s next for Indonesia’s trade and finance market?

To register for the free corporate pass please contact Elisabeth at espry@gtreview.com

MINING INVESTMENT MIDDLE EAST AND CENTRAL ASIA

E V E N T

F O C U S

The foremost Middle East and Central Asian forum for the global mining community MININGINVESTMENT MIDDLE EAST & CENTRAL ASIA 9 - 10 OCTOBER 2017

Sheraton Hotel, Muscat, Oman

Where Miners, Investors and Service Providers Converge

EVENT DETAILS SNAPSHOT OF SPEAKERS

WHEN: 9-10 October HENRY ANTWI

Commercial & Technical Advisor Mining Development Oman

FATEMAH DANESHVAR Mining Entrepreneur & MD Sayahan Sepehr Asia, Iran

DEAN CUNNINGHAM

MARK Oâ€™BYRNE

CEO Kunooz Oman Holding

Research Director Goldcore, Ireland

WHERE: Sheraton Hotel, Muscat, Oman Take Advantage of our Special Offer to Attend and Exhibit Today! Contact Maureen at +65 6717 6019 or maureen.beatriz@spire-events.com

WEBSITE: www.mininginvestmentmiddle east.com Exhibitor

Mining Zone

@MiningInvmt

Mining Investment Events

Mining Investment

Mining Investment Conferences

Organised by

www.mininginvestmentmiddleeast.com

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Spire Events

across the entire region. At the conference, various topics such as key issues disrupting and innovating the mining sector, insights on the mining landscape, mining finance and business strategies will be discussed. Mining Investment Middle East and Central Asia will bring in top notch business thought leaders to share their insights with the delegates. The conference will also provide plenty MINING INVESTMENT MIDDLE of networking opportunities through East and Central Asia is a strategic roundtable discussions and meal receptions. mining conference and exhibition for Besides the conference, the leaders of the mining, quarrying and exhibition also provides a great construction materials industries. opportunity for expanding Following a successful launch in connections, launching new products Muscat, Oman in 2016, the second and forging new business partnerships. edition is expected to bring together With key buyers and industry leaders 350 attendees from 25 countries. conveniently located under one roof, it Ministers, mining companies, is also an excellent branding platform. investors and service providers will Mining Investment Middle East travel from all over Middle East, Asia, and Central Asia is organised by Spire Europe, Africa and Americas for two Events (Singapore) and is part of the days of partnering, networking and business matching in Muscat, Oman. As global Mining Investment Series which one of the major mineral rich countries has 12 conferences spanning across five continents. The full calendar of in the Middle East, Oman is the ideal the latest conferences can be found at location to attract mining companies, www.spire-events.com. investors and their partners from

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MININGINVESTMENT MIDDLE EAST & CENTRAL ASIA 9 - 10 OCTOBER 2017

Sheraton Hotel, Muscat, Oman

Where Miners, Investors and Service Providers Converge SNAPSHOT OF SPEAKERS

HENRY ANTWI

Commercial & Technical Advisor Mining Development Oman

FATEMAH DANESHVAR Mining Entrepreneur & MD Sayahan Sepehr Asia, Iran

DEAN CUNNINGHAM

MARK Oâ€™BYRNE

CEO Kunooz Oman Holding

Research Director Goldcore, Ireland

Take Advantage of our Special Offer to Attend and Exhibit Today! Contact Maureen at +65 6717 6019 or maureen.beatriz@spire-events.com Exhibitor

Mining Zone

Mining Investment Events

Mining Investment

Mining Investment Conferences

Organised by

www.mininginvestmentmiddleeast.com

Spire Events

MINING INVESTMENT CHINA

E V E N T

F O C U S

The foremost Chinese forum for the global mining community EMININGINVESTMENT VENT DETAILS 中国矿业投资峰会 CHINA 23 - 24 OCTOBER 2017

Shanghai, China

Where Miners, Investors and Service Providers Converge SNAPSHOT OF SPEAKERS

WHEN: 23-24 October DR TIM SUN

Chairman Hong Kong International Mining Association

ANDREW HEINRICHS Director, Acquisitions Strategic Venture Fund, Hong Kong

CAI HONG YU

Managing Director China International Capital Corporation

WHERE: Shanghai, China

Take Advantage of our Special Offer to Attend and Exhibit Today! Contact Michael Lim at +65 6717 6017 or michael.lim@spire-events.com

WEBSITE: www.mininginvestmentchina.com Follow us on social media

Mining Investment Events

@MiningInvmt

Mining Investment

www.mininginvestmentchina.com

12 Countries

148

5 Continents

Mining Investment Conferences

Organised by

Spire Events

1 Global Mining Investment Conference Series

MINING INVESTMENT CHINA is a strategic mining conference and exhibition for leaders of the mining, quarrying and construction materials industries. It is expected to bring together 250 attendees from 25 countries. Ministers, mining companies, investors and service providers will travel from all over Asia, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Americas for two days of partnering, networking and business matching in Shanghai, China. As one of the major global economies, China is the ideal location

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to attract mining companies, investors and their partners from across the entire region. At the conference, various topics such as key issues disrupting and innovating the mining sector, insights on the mining landscape, mining finance and business strategies will be discussed. Mining Investment China will bring in top notch business thought leaders to share their insights with the delegates. The conference will also provide plenty of networking opportunities through roundtable discussions and meal receptions. Besides the conference, the exhibition also provides a great opportunity for expanding connections, launching new products and forging new business partnerships. With key buyers and industry leaders conveniently located under one roof, it is also an excellent branding platform. Mining Investment China is organised by Spire Events (Singapore) and is part of the global Mining Investment Series which has 12 conferences spanning across five continents. Full calendar of the latest conferences can be found at www.spire-events.com.

MININGINVESTMENT CHINA

中国矿业投资峰会 23 - 24 OCTOBER 2017

Shanghai, China

Where Miners, Investors and Service Providers Converge SNAPSHOT OF SPEAKERS

DR TIM SUN

Chairman Hong Kong International Mining Association

ANDREW HEINRICHS Director, Acquisitions Strategic Venture Fund, Hong Kong

CAI HONG YU

Managing Director China International Capital Corporation

Take Advantage of our Special Offer to Attend and Exhibit Today! Contact Michael Lim at +65 6717 6017 or michael.lim@spire-events.com

@MiningInvmt

Mining Investment

www.mininginvestmentchina.com

12 Countries

5 Continents

Mining Investment Conferences

Organised by

Spire Events

1 Global Mining Investment Conference Series

GULFOOD MANUFACTURING

E V E N T

F O C U S

The core of trading within the F&B processing industry THE MEASA REGION: a global business hub for companies offering Ingred solutions to the food & beverage i en sector ts 31 Oct - 2 Nov 2017 The Middle East, Africa and South EVENT DETAILS Asia (MEASA) region is the world’s fastest growing F&B processing WHEN: territory where demand for output 31 October - 2 November Proce solutions is accelerating. Demand ssi ng for food processing machinery in the WHERE: region will reach US$1.45 billion in the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, Unlocking next two years as buyers in this market UAE innovative global solutions for seek innovation, efficiency, improved CONTACT: the complete f&b output and production flexibility. processing chain gfmmarketing@dwtc.com Pac ka

gin

Dubai World Trade Centre

WEBSITE: www.gulfoodmanufacturing.com

Gulfood Manufacturing – the core of trading within the F&B processing industry Gulfood Manufacturing is the largest

at www.gulfoodmanufacturing.com

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trade show for the food processing and manufacturing sector in the MEASA region. Launched in 2014 and already endorsed by 1,600 international suppliers from more than 60 countries, it recognises the region’s ripe business potential as a leading international manufacturing and processing hub to serve domestic and international demand. The show connects global suppliers of the latest ingredients, processing, packaging, automation and logistics solutions to global food and beverage manufacturers who come to the show to source latest manufacturing ingredients and machinery. Last year, 32,499 food and beverage manufacturers from all over the world attended Gulfood Manufacturing with international visitor attendance rising 26 percent over and above its previous 2016 edition. The show also secured a 97 percent importance ranking by attendees to their overall business.

Unlocking complete integrated endto-end solutions for the entire F&B processing value chain The upcoming 2017 edition of the show will unveil a much wider exhibition profile, showcasing solutions for the complete spectrum of food & beverage manufacturing, starting from the initial formulation of ingredients, to processing, packaging and automation, all the way through to supply chain and logistics when finished products reach end-consumers. For more information about participation at the show, please e-mail: gfmmarketing@dwtc.com

Ingred ient

31 Oct - 2 Nov 2017

Pac ka

gin

Dubai World Trade Centre

Proce ssi ng

Unlocking

innovative global solutions for the complete f&b processing chain

at www.gulfoodmanufacturing.com

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Organised by

So lu tio ns

on & i t a Autom

Country Partner

l tro n Co

Strategic Partner

Official Airline Partner

M R O A S I A- PA C I F I C

E V E N T

F O C U S

A nose-to-tail experience covering the full lifecycle of an aircraft D ON’T MISS THIS opportunity to do business with the entire aerospace Exciting NEW Events! industry. Aviation Week Network’s MRO Asia-Pacific (#MROA) will be held 31 October-2 November at E VNose E N Tto Tail D ECoverage T A I L S of the Aerospace Industry. the Singapore Expo Convention & Aerospace Aero-Engines WHEN: Manufacturing Asia-Pacifi c Exhibition Centre. Asia-Pacific ring 31 October - 2 November MRO Asia-Pacific is the premier ctu Ae ro ufa n a E M event in this region providing thought WHERE: leadership on crucial industry issues Singapore Expo Convention & and concerns through its superior Exhibition Centre, Singapore editorial and conference content. This WEBSITE: year, two exciting new conferences O MRO Asia-Pacific Inflight Pavilion, mroasia.aviationweek.com Te will be launched in conjunction with in Workshop b Ca and Awards MRO Asia-Pacific creating a “nose-totail” experience and covering the full lifecycle of the aircraft. Register by September 8. Save $400 on your All Access Pass with Aero-Engines Asia-Pacific (#AEAP) Free Entrance to the Exhibition Hall! will focus specifically on the aeromroasia.aviationweek.com engine market; from manufacturing to retirement and everything in between. Discuss the challenges and developments in SINGAPORE • Oct 31–Nov 2, 2017

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THE leading MRO event in the region, delivering high quality information and industry access. MRO brings the entire commercial aerospace industry together to discuss the latest issues on local and global levels. Hear from operators and their service providers on concerns, opportunities and plans for future growth.

Focus on the aero-engine market; from manufacturing to retirement and everything in between! Take part in lively discussions on challenges and developments in aerospace engine technology. Airlines, lessors, OEMs, MROs and suppliers will combine informative, technical presentations with relationship building opportunities.

lo g

s ine ng

As the demand for aircraft in Asia spikes to meet passenger growth the region will see an increase in aerospace manufacturing. Unlock actionable strategies that will accelerate your supply-chain, delivery schedules and development pipeline, and take your business to the next level.

Aero sp ac e

NEW OPPORTUNITIES

In collaboration with HMG Aerospace, the Inflight workshop will take place in the Inflight Pavilion on the MRO Asia-Pacific exhibition hall. Each session will see a topical in-flight technology theme debated by specialist suppliers and airline representatives.

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aerospace engine technology, with representatives from airlines, lessors, OEMs, MROs and suppliers, combining informative, technical presentations with relationship building networking opportunities. Aerospace Manufacturing AsiaPacific (#AMAP) will focus on the manufacturing sector. As the demand for aircraft in Asia spikes to meet passenger growth the region will see an increase in manufacturing. Unlock actionable strategies that will accelerate supply-chain, delivery schedules and pipeline development. MRO Asia-Pacific features a diversity of “luminaries” in the industry who will lead informative drill-down discussions and sessions on: • Succeeding in a More for Less World • Developing Asia’s Manufacturing EcoSystem • Engine Forecast and Industry Trends • Workforce Needed for Asia Pacific’s Growth • Data-Driven MRO – The Cathay Pacific Airways Case Study • Advanced Manufacturing: Process & Tech • Maintenance for Mature Engines • New MRO Markets and Networks The Exhibition Hall features more than 150 companies displaying products, solutions and services including the Queensland Government, Australia and Singapore pavilions. New in 2017 the hall will also host the Inflight Pavilion and Workshop, dedicated to IFEC and cabin technology. MRO Asia-Pacific registration hours are Tuesday 31 October and Wednesday 1 November from 8am5pm; and Thursday 2 November from 8am to 3pm. Exhibition hours are Wednesday 1 November from 10.30am5pm and Thursday 2 November from 9.30am to 3pm.

SINGAPORE â€˘ Oct 31â€“Nov 2, 2017 NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Exciting NEW Events!

Nose to Tail Coverage of the Aerospace Industry. Ae ro -E

MRO Asia-Pacific

lo g

ring ctu a f u an M

s ine ng

Aero-Engines Asia-Pacific

Aero sp ac e

Aerospace Manufacturing Asia-Pacific

bin

Register by September 8. Save $400 on your All Access Pass with Free Entrance to the Exhibition Hall! mroasia.aviationweek.com

Inflight Pavilion, Workshop and Awards In collaboration with HMG Aerospace, the Inflight workshop will take place in the Inflight Pavilion on the MRO Asia-Pacific exhibition hall. Each session will see a topical in-flight technology theme debated by specialist suppliers and airline representatives.

THE BIG 5 CONSTRUCT INDONESIA

E V E N T

F O C U S

Construction and infrastructure opportunities in Indonesia continue to grow

8 - 10 NOVEMBER 2017 | JAKARTA CONVENTION CENTER

CMY

10.6% est. CONTRIBUTION OF INDONESIA E V E N CONSTRUCTION T D E T ASECTOR ILS TO GDP IN 2017 WHEN: 8-10 November GENERATE WHERE: MORE LEADS & SECURE Convention Centre, Jakarta MEET NEW NEW CONTRACTS & Jakarta, IndonesiaBUYERS PROMOTE

KONSTRUKSI IND ONESIA & The Big 5 Construct join forces once again to create the perfect platform for companies to access the local market and connect with serious buyers in a professional environment. With $395 billion of investment in 2017 geared towards the construction and infrastructure sector, opportunities in Indonesia continue to grow. The event is taking place from 8-10 November, 2017.

YOUR BRAND

BOOK YOUR WEBSITE: SPACE TODAY! www.konstruksiindonesiabig5.com

FOR EXHIBITING & SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES, CONTACT: Gregorius Harvin Tarsus Indonesia (South East Asia) Tel: +62 21 5799 1465 / 66 Email: gharvin@tarsus.co.id

Eric Chan dmg Events (International) Tel: +971 4 438 0355 Email: ericchan@dmgeventsme.com

WWW.KONSTRUKSIINDONESIABIG5.COM

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8 - 10 NOVEMBER 2017 | JAKARTA CONVENTION CENTER

10.6% est. CONTRIBUTION OF INDONESIA CONSTRUCTION SECTOR TO GDP IN 2017 C

CMY

GENERATE MORE LEADS & SECURE NEW CONTRACTS

BOOK YOUR SPACE TODAY!

MEET NEW BUYERS & PROMOTE YOUR BRAND

FOR EXHIBITING & SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES, CONTACT: Gregorius Harvin Tarsus Indonesia (South East Asia) Tel: +62 21 5799 1465 / 66 Email: gharvin@tarsus.co.id

Eric Chan dmg Events (International) Tel: +971 4 438 0355 Email: ericchan@dmgeventsme.com

WWW.KONSTRUKSIINDONESIABIG5.COM

FI INDIA & HI 2017

E V E N T

F O C U S

India’s largest gathering gredients. of food and beverage uppliers. professionals olutions.

ur n food

market with

ood and ibitors at the FoodTec

ccess.

EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 11-13 November 11 – 13 November 2017

WHERE: Bombay Exhibition Centre Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai Mumbai, India @Fi_Global

WEBSITE: Search for Food ingredients www.fi-india.com

www.fi-india.com/innovations

Fi South America

Fi India

156

Fi Asia-China

Fi Istanbul

Hi Europe

INDIA’S LARGEST GATHERING of food and beverage professionals returns for its 12th edition to Mumbai this November! Whether you are sourcing food ingredients, health ingredients or solutions in processing, packaging equipment and associated services, Fi India & Hi 2017 has it covered. The food processing industry is one of the top priority sectors in India, leading to countless opportunities for innovative international food ingredients professionals. Fi India & Hi has grown by more than 90 percent over the past three editions and now hosts more than 6,500 high-level senior professionals with considerable

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purchasing power and more than 150 exhibitors across the entire value chain. This is the place to be to expand your knowledge of the Indian market through the wide range of free onsite seminars on offer at this year’s show. The seminars are organised in association with a variety of Indian associations and will cover both technical developments and market trends. Network with more than 6,500 fellow industry professionals, experience the Expo FoodTec pavilion, a new platform for the food processing & packaging industry, and grow your business in an emerging market full of possibilities. Fi India & Hi 2017 is not to be missed for anyone looking to grow their business in India! Register for free now and be the first to discover the new features at Fi India & Hi 2017 in Mumbai! For more information about Fi India & Hi 2017 and to register, please visit: www.fi-india.com.

New ingredients. New suppliers. New solutions. Let Fi India & Ni be your gateway to the Indian food market Fi India & Hi 2017 is your gateway to access a market with over 1 billion customers. Learn about the various aspects of the Indian food and beverage industry and meet with over 200 exhibitors at the Food Ingredients, Health Ingredients and Expo FoodTec pavilions.

Fi India & Hi. The perfect recipe for success.

11 â€“ 13 November 2017 Bombay Exhibition Centre Mumbai @Fi_Global Search for Food ingredients

Find your ingredients. www.fi-india.com/innovations Fi Europe

Fi Asia

Hi China

Fi Vietnam

Fi South America

Fi India

Fi Asia-China

Fi Istanbul

Hi Europe

THE WORLD MARKETING CONGRESS

E V E N T

F O C U S Purpose vs Purposeful

Discussing how businesses can grow, thrive and win by being a positive force in the world EVENT DETAILS WHEN: 24-25 November WHERE: Taj Lands End, Mumbai, India CONTACT: aalok.pandit@ worldmarketingcongress.org WEBSITE: www.worldmarketingcongress.org

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A RECENT ARTICLE in the media reported the death of the ‘failed strategy’ of CSR. It argued that a new era of social purpose was emerging, with brands developing growth strategies geared towards a genuinely positive impact on society. Sustainability reports, strategic CSR and even marketing campaigns were all bundled together claiming to be “purpose”. If purpose is defined as so many different things, does it start to become a little meaningless? And are we in danger of a new kind of ‘purposewash’, where brands claim to be ‘benefiting the world’ then just carrying on with business as usual?

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Part of the problem is the seemingly interchangeable words of purpose and purposeful. We see a difference between ‘having a business purpose’ and ‘being a purposeful business’. The former outlines the reason a business exists over and above simply ‘making money’ and is also sometimes known as the ‘Why’ or ‘Core Ideology’. A purposeful business is a business that exists primarily to tackle a problem or challenge in the world in some specific way, and sees the sale of products and services as a vehicle for this positive change. For a purposeful business, money represents freedom; the freedom to pursue a mission, to make a difference, and to measurably and impactfully change lives. It is these businesses that tend to enjoy the biggest rewards of acting with purpose; higher staff productivity and retention, greater customer loyalty, improved regulatory relationships, etc.

Thus our questions are:

• What does purposeful look like? • How important is the internal culture? • How does commitment to their purpose impact influencing other stakeholders? • Does a term like “The purpose journey” hold ground? These are our thoughts for the future of business; one where businesses grow, thrive and win by being a positive force in the world. And the more they do, the better the world will be for all of us.

Presenting

18 - 20 SE P 2017 D U B A I WO R L D T R A D E C E N T R E

D U B A I S E R V E S A WO R L D O F H O S P I TA L I T Y Reflecting the soaring demand for new, adventurous leisure and dining experiences, GulfHost will redefine your performance in the fast-moving hospitality arena. Discover the A - Z of restaurant, bar and cafĂŠ solutions at the global melting point for multicultural cuisine

Get your free ticket at www.gulfhost.ae Organised by

Co-located events

Endorsed by

Asia Outlook - Issue 28

Published on Aug 11, 2017

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