Asia Outlook - Issue 30

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ASIA

ISSUE 30

Structural

PERFECTION Building Façade Group (BFG) is demonstrating excellence well beyond its years as a proud contributor to façade innovation in Asia

BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDES 24

Nepal, Jakarta, Myanmar

SAMSUNG C&T (KL) SDN BHD

Adding total solutions satisfaction to the Malaysian melting pot

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KFC MYANMAR 120 Serving heart and heritage to Myanmar’s QSR industry

CELLCARD 138 Enabling Cambodian talent

ALSO FEATURING: UNILEVER FOUNDRY | WINE CONNECTION | ASIA WAREHOUSING SHOW

Business Travel Guides

A complete guide to the world’s most popular locations

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J A K A R T A

JAKARTA

or many of the world’s most recognisable cities and most visited destinations, there is a clear intertwining link between tourism and business travel, with the former more often driving the latter. Jakarta is an exception though, thriving as a significant global city being propelled by economic prominence on a global scale.

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Indonesia’s capital bucks a trend for APAC’s most sought after destinations; leveraging economic astuteness rather than tourist appeal Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Joe Palliser

In APAC specifically, the likes of Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok have long strived to become a traveller’s staple, which in turn has encouraged business and infrastructural development on a secondary note across key parameters.

For Indonesia’s capital city and one of the world’s biggest melting pots though, the roles are reversed, and development really does mean business.

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In fact, the lines are quite clearly distinguished between the two notions; domestic visitors accounting for tourism and international swathes covering the more prominent business travel element. As the centre of economics, culture and politics in the country though, it is perhaps unsurprising.

The extent of the latter is so extensive in fact, that it now defines modern day Jakarta. Once an indictment of wider Indonesian values and history, the city now is a diverse melting pot consisting of numerous different languages, ethnic groups, religions and nationalities; while the indigenous Betawi influences are more a subtle bonus rather than the overriding lifeblood of the area.

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Seen as both a positive and negative depending on what side of the coin you are, quite severe transport challenges through overpopulation can easily be forgotten if a more varied eclectic trip is what you’re looking for. And for associations such as the Jakarta Convention & Exhibition Bureau, efforts are being made to bridge the gap and to make Jakarta as much of a localised example of Indonesian grandeur as it is a showcase of international prestige.

“In five years time if we were to speak about Jakarta as a destination [that is as appealing to tourists as much as it is to the business travel community] then I would expect to be able to say that 'we've made it',” the enabler states.

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ASIA FACTS & FIGURES

Languages:

Indonesian, Javanese, Malay

Area:

661 square kilometres

Population (2014): 10 million Currency: Indonesian rupiah (Rp)

Time zone: Dialling code: Internet TLD: Climate: Highest recorded temperature:

UTC+7 +62 .id Tropical monsoon 35.6 °C

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See page

38 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.

joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 676

ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 672

W E L C O M E Finishing With a Flourish

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ASIA

As we round off the most successful year in Asia Outlook’s history, the title can look back at a thrilling 12 months which has featured profiles on some of the biggest names in global - let alone regional - industry.

The likes of Carabao Group, Lumina, Stena Marine, The Structural Salvation Army, Veolia, JLT, SAESL, Brink’s and LITAC have captivated Building Façade Group (BFG) is demonstrating an ever-expanding subscribership excellence well beyond its years as a proud contributor to façade innovation in Asia and have been complemented by the meteoric rise of the magazine’s business travel segment, which this year has taken us from PNG to Hong Kong, to Malaysia and the Solomon Islands.

And, as a sign of things to come in 2018, Asia Outlook is parting ways with 2017 full to the brim with a who’s who of international business success.

The headline act is a façade specialist ironically putting on no facade when it comes to its ambitions and intentions, having already established itself prominently within ASEAN’s construction domain. Building Façade Group has capitalised on the rise of the sector since the 1990s to become a leading innovator integral to the development of numerous significant projects.

From then on, a host of household names pinpoint their own routes to success in the Asia-Pacific region; Samsung C&T, KFC Myanmar, thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions Asia Pacific and SEW Eurodrive all offering fascinating global perspectives on local enrichment.

Asia Outlook’s aforementioned Business Travel Guide assortment goes on to similarly befit the grandeur of the title’s biggest ever edition, with no less than three in the issue.

Nepal, Myanmar and Jakarta may occupy similar geographies, but their histories, cultures and economic infrastructures differ dramatically, and both I and Phoebe Calver attempt to unearth the key to each nation’s success in attracting foreign direct investment, and overseas visitors.

Finally, a Unilever Foundry-driven overview of tech startups in Asia, and BNY Mellon’s summary of the continent’s trade finance gap among local businesses brings a touch of poignancy and subtlety to proceedings; before a concerted Event Focus collection - comprising the Asia Warehousing Show and IoT Asia 2018 - closes the door on the way out.

ISSUE 30

PERFECTION BUSINESS TRAVEL

GUIDES 00 Nepal, Jakarta, Myanmar

ASIA

SAMSUNG C&T (KL) SDN BHD

Adding total solutions satisfaction to the Malaysian melting pot

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KFC MYANMAR 00 Serving heart and heritage to Myanmar’s QSR industry

CELLCARD 00 Enabling Cambodian talent

ALSO FEATURING: UNILEVER FOUNDRY | WINE CONNECTION | ASIA WAREHOUSING SHOW

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: Devon Collins devon.collins@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: Joshua Mann joshua.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 Jamie Sutherland jamie.sutherland@outlookpublishing.com Matt Cole-Wilkin matt.cole-wilkin@outlookpublishing.com Stuart Parker stuart.parker@outlookpublishing.com

ADMINISTRATION Finance Director: Suzanne Welsh suzanne.welsh@outlookpublishing.com Office and Finance Manager: Sophia Curran sophia.curran@outlookpublishing.com Web Design: Hamit Saka IT: James Le-May

OUTLOOK PUBLISHING 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

www.asiaoutlookmag.com Like us on Facebook - facebook.com/asiaoutlook Follow us on Twitter - @AsiaOutlookMag

Matthew Staff

Editorial Director, Outlook Publishing

Enjoy the issue and see you in 2018!

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In this issue...

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NEWS

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TECHNOLOGY Unilever Offers a JumpStart into the Tech Arena

All the latest top stories from across Asia

Unilvever Foundry turns startups into sustainable success stories

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FINANCE Plugging the Gap

Using technology to restructure Asian trade finance

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Unrivalled profit and people satisfaction makes up for environmental concerns

Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world

CONSTRUCTION

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BUILDING FAÇADE GROUP (BFG) Proud Contributors

Delivering excellence and innovation in façade design

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S E C TO R F O C U S ENERGY AND UTILITIES Hong Kong Mobility Masquerades Energy Shortfalls

SHOWCASING LEADING COMPANIES

SAMSUNG C&T (KL) SDN BHD The Trusted Builder

Adding total solutions satisfaction to the Malaysian melting pot

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BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDES

THYSSENKRUPP INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS ASIA PACIFIC engineering. tomorrow. together.

Setting new benchmarks across Asia, and the world

INTERIORS PTE 106 TARKUS LTD The Tarkus Touch

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NEPAL

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JAKARTA

A Charming and Serene Piece of Paradise The Melting Pot Means Business

MYANMAR A New Era

Comfortable and comforting in equal measure

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B+H ARCHITECTS Bold Thinking

We live to design Bold & Inspiring spaces for people

ASIA F O O D & D R I N K

MINING & RESOURCES

120

KFC MYANMAR Chicken Masters

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INDODRILL Professional to the Core

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WINE CONNECTION Removing the Risk

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MALACO GROUP Naturally Resourceful

Serving heart and heritage to Myanmar’s QSR industry

Fruitful development of a topclass wine collection

Advancing drilling operations in Indonesia

Realising goals within a deadline

SHIPPING & LOGISTICS

164

GUARDFORCE GROUP LIMITED Securing the Present, Innovating the Future

Addressing the need to protect

O T E C H N O L O G Y

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CELLCARD Fully-Integrated Communications

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CONVERGE ICT SOLUTIONS Innovative Fibre Optics

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NU ENERGY GAS Clean Energy

Delivering technical expertise to Indonesian energy

Enabling Cambodian talent

The crucial connection for Papua New Guinea

HONGKONG JET APAC Aviation in the Ascendancy

Respected and integrated aviation services to Asia-Pacific, and beyond

Papua New Guinea’s water supply and sanitation service provider

E V E N T

206 MANUFACTURING

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SEW-EURODRIVE THAILAND Motoring Ahead

F O C U S

CWC JAPAN LNG & GAS SUMMIT The international platform for Japan’s LNG and gas players

C5’S LONG TERM GAS 208 SUPPLY CONTRACTS: ASIA

The only event in Asia focused on successfully negotiating and renegotiating long-term gas supply contracts

Getting ASEAN manufacturing into gear

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WATER PNG LIMITED Your Life, Our Business

‘Lighting up the dark’ side of Papua New Guinea

T R A N S P O R T PNG AIR Come Fly Our Way

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ORIGIN ENERGY 202 Optimising LNG in PNG

Providing continuous improvements to ICT solutions

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ENERGY & UTILITIES

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ASIA WAREHOUSING SHOW

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LAST MILE FULFILMENT ASIA

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IOT ASIA 2018

Co-located alongside Material Handling Equipment Expo Asia, e-commerce Logistics Show and Supply Chain Asia Zone

Go global, deliver local. Let 2018 be the year of possibilities and change Connecting you to collaboration and partnership opportunities in Asia

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FactoryTalk Analytics Platform with Project Scio, a broader advanced analytics capability currently under development.

These advances aim to create a deeper ability to organise and orchestrate disparate data sets and drive stronger operational insights in real time. The result is an, open, scalable analytics platform that The Automation Fair event, hosted by ways of gaining value and increasing allows plant teams to scale across Rockwell Automation and members productivity, and we are just getting the entire information architecture started. The Industrial Internet of and a move for organisations of its partner network on 15-16 Things connects data: we take the data away from more descriptive and November, 2017 in Houston, Texas offered a number of announcements from those plant-floor devices and turn diagnostics-based analytics into the it into useful information and produce realm of predictive and prescriptive of new end user developments and positive outcomes for our customers. advanced capabilities available to analytics.

Rockwell Automation customers, Good things happen when we combine In addition, three new capabilities including the FactoryTalk software the potential of automation with the were announced for the Studio 5000 and the Studio 5000 environment. imagination of people.” environment, including: The Rockwell Automation vision Three major new advances were • AutomationML Interface enables of The Connected Enterprise demonstrated for the Company’s bi-directional exchange of data continues to gain traction within FactoryTalk software offering, with other tools like EPLAN and the company’s customer base, including two recently commercialised other CAD systems with Rockwell Automation CEO, offerings, FactoryTalk Analytics for • Improved interface for emulation Blake Moret, commenting: “The Devices and FactoryTalk Analytics environment so users can conduct Internet of Things is unlocking new for Machines, as well expanding the operator training with other systems • The newly-branded FactoryTalk Linx, formerly RSLinx, a communications software used with the Rockwell Software portfolio, supports OPC-UA open unified connectivity

M A N U F A C T U R I N G

Rockwell Product Updates Place Greater Analytics Power in the Hands of End Users

Joseph Sousa, president, Asia Pacific, Rockwell Automation, noted: “Developments that offer enhanced connectivity and access to information in new and existing assets are crucial as Rockwell Automation helps its customers achieve the vision of smart manufacturing. These new advances will offer our customers in APAC and across the rest of the world greater analytics power and the ability to get deeper insights into their business in order to improve resiliency in the face of changing market conditions.”

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

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

Honda Restructures its F1 Operations Honda has restructured its underperforming Formula One operations after the split from McLaren, with Yusuke Hasegawa to stand down as head of the Japanese company’s F1 project at the end of the year.

Honda - starting a new partnership with Red Bull-owned Toro Rosso from January - said in a statement recently that Hasegawa’s position would be split into two separate functions.

Toyoharu Tanabe, an experienced Formula One veteran who worked as race engineer to Austrian, Gerhard Berger, at McLaren in the early 1990s, had been appointed as F1 Technical Director.

Tanabe, who was also Chief Engineer to Britain’s Jenson Button at BAR and Honda Racing between 2003 and 2007, will run operations at

the racetrack and in testing.

“By separating these areas of responsibility, we will evolve our structure so that both the development team and racing/testing team can assume their respective responsibilities more speedily,” said Honda’s brand and communications head, Katsuhide Moriyama.

Honda and McLaren split after the 2017 season that ended last month, bringing down the curtain on three painful years that saw the former

world champions suffer their worst ever slump.

Their time together was beset with poor reliability and a lack of performance from a Honda engine struggling to compete with rivals.

McLaren, who have Spain’s double world champion Fernando Alonso, along with Belgian Stoffel Vandoorne, as their drivers, will have Renault power next season. Toro Rosso have New Zealander Brendon Hartley and France’s Pierre Gasly.

go bankrupt if the current monetary policy continues for another few years,” said Takeshi Minami, Chief Economist at Norinchukin Research Institute.

A recent poll found 17 of 35 economists said comments by BOJ board members on the reversal rate would not influence monetary policy.

But 13 respondents - or about a third believe such talk suggests the central bank refrain from additional easing.

At its October meeting the BOJ maintained a pledge to guide shortterm interest rates to minus 0.1 percent and 10-year bond yields around zero percent.

Median forecasts in the poll found the BOJ will keep both short-term rates and the 10-year bond yield target unchanged at least until the second half of 2019.

Most economists surveyed said the BOJ would start scaling back its stimulus in late 2018 or after.

Japan’s economy is on its secondbest stretch of uninterrupted post-war growth thanks to robust overseas demand. If this expansion continues to January, 2019 it would be longest run of growth on record.

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Japan’s Ultra-Low Rates Could Hurt Banks’ Business Economists fear that the Bank of Japan’s ultra-low interest rates could hurt banks’ ability to do business if they are kept too long.

BOJ Governor, Haruhiko Kuroda, flagged this possibility when he referred - in November - to a “reversal rate”, or the level where central bank rate cuts can hurt the economy by squeezing banks’ lending margins to a level where they lose interest in making loans.

“Banks’ profitability in their main business has been squeezed and regional financial institutions may

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

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Ford to Shift Midsize Sedan Production to China

SHIPPING AND LOGISTICS

China Export Growth Hits Eight-Month High China’s exports and imports unexpectedly accelerated last month in an encouraging sign for the world’s second-biggest economy, though analysts expect growth to continue cooling amid a Government crackdown on financial risks and polluting factories.

As global demand has surprised with its strength, consumers have lapped up Chinese goods at a rapid rate this year, giving the economy a boost and providing policy makers room to tighten rules to curb high-risk lending.

Exports in November rose 12.3 percent year-on-year, the fastest pace in eight months, led by strong sales of electronics and high-tech goods, while commodity purchases helped lift imports.

The numbers may help to ease concerns of slowing momentum in Asia’s economic powerhouse, which had surprised markets with robust growth of nearly 6.9 percent in the first nine months of this year, thanks to a Government-led infrastructure spending spree and unexpected strength in exports.

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Ford Motor Co has told suppliers it plans to shift production of midsize Fusion and Mondeo sedans out of Mexico and Spain in 2020 and move it to China, three sources said recently.

The automaker said it will now ship those cars from China to the United States and Europe.

Ford did not address the future of the plants in Hermosillo, Mexico and Valencia, Spain that currently build midsize sedans for the North American and European markets, respectively.

Ford commented in November that it would invest more than €750 million (£660.8 million) in Valencia to produce a new generation of its Kuga sport utility vehicle.

Recent Ford documents shared with suppliers show the automaker plans to shift some Focus and Mondeo production to China, and no longer list Hermosillo and Valencia as production sites, according to sources familiar with the Company’s plans.

F I N A N C E

China Raises Market Rates to Fend-off Financial Risks China’s central bank recently nudged up money market rates as authorities sought to defuse financial risks without imperilling the economy, a balancing act that they have managed successfully so far this year as activity remained broadly steady.

The world’s second-biggest economy has started to cool in recent months amid a government crackdown on high-risk lending and polluting factories, and the move by the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) coming hours after an anticipated US Federal Reverse rate hike signalled that Beijing will keep policy tighter next year.

A flurry of data on the day highlighted the economic impact of government efforts to wean China off its years-long addiction to debt, with industrial output, investment and property market all backing evidence of a moderation in momentum.

Analysts said the PBOC rate hikes, widely seen as a backdoor approach that avoids the need to raise benchmark policy rates, will not impede activity though they signalled a commitment by authorities to continue curbing leverage.

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

Toyota and Panasonic Consider Joint Development of New EV Batteries Japan’s Panasonic Corp and Toyota Motor Corp said in a recent press release they will consider jointly developing batteries for electric vehicles.

The move could help Panasonic extend its lead as the world’s largest

automotive lithium-ion battery manufacturer.

The announcement builds on an existing agreement under which Panasonic manufactures batteries for Toyota’s gasoline hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Toyota said last year it was planning to add fully electric vehicles to its product line-up, in a strategic shift away from its previous position that it saw fuel-cell vehicles and plug-in hybrids as the most sensible technologies to make cars greener.

R E TA I L

Rakuten Plots to become one of Japan’s Top Wireless Carriers Japanese ecommerce firm, Rakuten Inc. has said it would apply for a 4G mobile license, aiming to become the country’s fourth major wireless carrier in a strategic shift that had analysts warning of an uphill battle to gain customers.

Rakuten, which operates one of Japan’s most popular shopping websites, said it hoped to gain a new engine of growth, adding that having a mobile license would complement its ecommerce, streaming and fintech services such as online securities trading.

“There is no doubt that mobile devices are the most important user touchpoint for the expansion of existing services and new service development,” it said in a statement.

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

Nissan Recalls 320,000 Vehicles in Japan after Eight Fires are Reported T E C H N O L O G Y

Amazon’s Cloud Unit Expands in China Amazon.com Inc said recently that it was expanding its cloud computing business in China with a new local partner, aiming to win share in an increasingly crowded and highly regulated market.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) will start offering customer services based out of the north-western Chinese region of Ningxia in partnership with local firm Ningxia Western Cloud Data Technology Co Ltd (NWCD), the US firm said.

“AWS has formed a strategic technology collaboration with NWCD, and NWCD operates and provides services from the AWS China Ningxia Region, in full compliance with Chinese regulations,” Amazon said in a statement.

Nissan Motor Co said recently it was recalling nearly 320,000 vehicles in Japan to fix defective coating in an electronic power unit that could cause a short circuit and fire in the worst-case scenario.

The recall covers six models including the Serena minivan as well as minivans and vans manufactured for Suzuki Motor Corp and Mitsubishi Motors Corp produced between February, 2010 and September, 2014.

There were eight reports of fires from the defect, a filing with the transport ministry showed.

The recall does not affect vehicles sold outside Japan, a Nissan spokesman said.

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TELL US YOUR STORY

AND WE’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 Publishing’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

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Unilever Offers a Jump-Start into the TECH ARENA Through its groundbreaking Unilever Foundry entity, the globally-reputed Group is promoting start-up innovation in Southeast Asia courtesy of the Foundry 30 SEAA initiative Writer: Matthew Staff aunched in 2014, the Unilever Foundry is a global platform facilitating startups and innovators to engage, collaborate and explore business opportunities with Unilever and its more than 400 brands and functions.

Committed to transforming Unilever’s growth model to make sustainable living commonplace, Unilever Foundry is enabling a vision of collaboration with innovators in order to realise the internationally-renowned Group’s ambitions.

The Unilever Foundry focuses on working with startups across six focus areas: Marketing Tech & Ad Tech; Enterprise Tech; Consumer & Market Intelligence; Products & Ingredients; New Business Model Innovation; and Social Impact Entrepreneurs. And, since its launch, it has worked on more than 100 pilots around the world with pioneering startups.

Barbara Guerpillon, Head of Unilever Foundry SEAA and LEVEL3 introduces: “Our brands and functions create briefs via the Unilever Foundry which outline specific business challenges that need solving and opportunities we are seeking to grasp.

“One unique advantage that the Unilever Foundry holds is our global network. Startups are not limited to briefs in the region but can leverage Unilever’s connections to explore opportunities worldwide. Photospire (a contextual video platform) is an example of a startup that answered a brief in Singapore but ended up working with our teams in the United Kingdom.”

Barbara Guerpillon, Head of Unilever Foundry SEAA

In Singapore, the Unilever Foundry - along with its partner, Padang & Co. - established LEVEL3, a collaborative workspace to bring together Unilever, startups and entrepreneurs to deliver business impacts.

Officially opened in February, 2017 in Unilever’s regional headquarters in Singapore, LEVEL3 is now home to more than 60 companies as well as ecosystem partners such as Microsoft, Google and Deloitte.

Asia Outlook spoke to Guerpillon about the significance of such an entity in the budding ASEAN region.

Barbara Guerpillon (BG): Southeast Asia is the fastest growing internet market in the world. Combined with a rising middle class and more social consumers, the region is an exciting hotspot for Unilever and for startups.

With this rapid digital evolution, we saw an opportunity to connect with startups that we believe will positively influence the region from a technological, consumer and social impact point of view.

We created the Unilever Foundry 30 South East Asia Australasia (UF30 SEAA) to provide startups with an opportunity to gain exposure with our brands and functions across the region.

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The selected startups have facilitated access to our brands as well as to our global Unilever Foundry community, mentorship, and guidance from Unilever’s partners and invitations to key internal events.

Today, startups like Try&Review, Happi, DAV and Emporio Analytics are now working with us, and opportunities are arising for others like Taptopick and POPxo. Asia Outlook (AsO): The notion of a ‘tech-startup’ is significant on a global scale, but how pivotal is it in Southeast Asia specifically in bringing new levels of innovation to the region?

BG: With a population of more than 600 million people, half of whom are below the age of 30, and a growing middle class (more than 80 percent of the population are predicted to be middle class by 2030), Southeast Asia presents a unique opportunity for growth. We very much see innovation playing a crucial role in supporting the development of emerging markets such as Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, which is why it is pivotal that we nurture startups who can significantly impact the region with their technologies.

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By strategically basing our collaborative workspace, LEVEL3, in Singapore, Unilever is able to provide the entrepreneurial community in Singapore and Southeast Asia with the proximity to connect to Unilever’s brands and functions, as well as to leverage Unilever’s expertise, mentorship and guidance to scale.

LEVEL3’s ambition is to support the local startup ecosystem by building a strong community of startups and entrepreneurs in Southeast Asia, from Singapore.

Additionally, we are also seeing tech startups drive urban growth and contribute to local communities. For example, billionBricks, a non-profit organisation that works with homeless and displaced communities in Asia is one of the 30 startups under the UF30 SEAA, and has invented innovative housing solutions to give the homeless a place of their own. Through its business model, billionBricks gives back to the community, and is an example of how tech startups can bring new levels of innovation to the region.

AsO: How pleased were you with the response to your model from within the business community?

BG: We received more than 100 applicants with more than 60 percent of applicants from the SEAA region, further demonstrating the growing number of startups here. Our judging process included executives from Unilever, Millennial 20/20 and Padang & Co. We were extremely pleased with the quality of the startups who were selected to be part of the Foundry 30, and are already working with more than a handful of these companies to develop new initiatives.

AsO: Having now announced the 30, please talk me through the core aspects/traits you looked for in the successful candidates?

BG: The main criterion was that the

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The 30 selected startups can work directly with Unilever’s brands to help ‘ignite innovation’

startups had to be operating in one of the five areas identified by Unilever as future areas of innovation. The areas include retail; media and advertising; brand and content innovation; data, insights and personalisation; and sustainability and social impact.

We also evaluated the startups based on their readiness to scale and their innovative approach to integrating technology to develop their business ideas.

“Through collaboration at LEVEL3, we aim to eliminate barriers between corporates and startups by nurturing a cooperative learning environment”

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AsO: What benefits these 30 startups now enjoy from being part of the Unilever Foundry 30 SEAA, and how does Unilever Foundry plan to assist these enterprises in their visions?

BG: As part of the UF30 SEAA, the startups now receive opportunities to work directly with Unilever’s brands via Foundry briefs, and gain access to Unilever’s mentors and partners.

They are also invited to join the startup community and Unilever at LEVEL3.

AsO: Looking forward, what would you hope and expect to see from these startups as they look to make an impact on Southeast Asia’s tech domain?

BG: Through collaboration at LEVEL3, we aim to eliminate barriers between corporates and startups by nurturing a cooperative learning environment. We hope that direct

Channeling a hunger for innovation

access to Unilever will help startups to progress faster and develop more innovative solutions as they continue to scale.

At the same time, Unilever strongly advocates co-working with

purpose and innovating for social and economic sustainability, and we hope that startups can work with us to develop solutions which will help us achieve our many sustainable ambitions we have within the region.

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ASIA

Plugging

THE GAP Dominic Broom discusses the outlook for trade in Asia and the impact of the trade finance gap on local businesses Written by: Dominic Broom, Global Head of Trade Business Development, Treasury Services, BNY Mellon espite numerous opportunities for trade, Asian SMEs are struggling to bridge the gap between supply and demand for trade finance. Dominic Broom, Global Head of Trade Business Development, Treasury Services, BNY Mellon, explains how technology can help banks address the trade finance gap and allow SMEs to access the financing they need.

The global trade finance gap between supply and demand currently stands at around US$1.5 trillion. While this is an improvement on 2016, it offers small comfort to companies in Asia and the Pacific. Here - as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) recently revealed - the region is shouldering some 40 percent of the entire global deficit in unmet demand for trade finance. This is partly because the region represents the largest regional source of trade finance proposals in the world, while also accounting for the highest number of trade finance rejections.

Of course, this shortfall in trade finance supply is not an issue for the APAC region alone. Yet, with the ADB predicting that the Asia and Pacific bloc will generate 60 percent of global

US$1.5 TRILLION

trade growth over the coming year, any slowdown in regional trade in Asia caused by a shortfall in finance, is certain to have immediate and far-reaching consequences for the worldwide economy.

Regional trade prospects

One reason for the extraordinary prospects for trade in the Asia-Pacific region is the rapid expansion of the

consumer base, particularly in the ASEAN region (Southeast Asia), where the population is set to reach 700 million by 2030. Indeed, it is the region’s growth as a consumer base when it was previously viewed purely as a producer base - that really excites trading companies in both Asia and the wider world. Yet, taking advantage of this significant shift will require trade finance support; at the very moment such support has become constrained.

So why is this happening? A key reason many banks are not fulfilling the demand for trade finance is rising compliance costs; borne out of increased regulations following the 2008 financial crisis. More than any other single reason, this has deterred banks from servicing smaller and riskier markets, particularly within Asia and particularly for SMEs. Indeed, the discrepancy in trade finance access between advanced and developing countries in Asia was revealed by the International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) “Rethinking Trade & Finance 2017” report, which showed that developing Asian markets (excluding China and India) face a 15 percent transaction rejection rate, almost double that of China and other advanced Asian nations.

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Furthermore, banks surveyed as part of the ICC Global Survey on Trade Finance and Supply Chain Finance, reveal that 74 percent of these rejections were related to trade finance applications from SMEs and midcap applicants.

The high rejection rates for SME-initiated trade finance transactions are widely acknowledged among banks in Asia, as the root causes. Indeed, the bank respondents of the ICC report identified compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations as the main causes for rejecting trade finance transactions. KYC checks, for instance, require financial institutions (FIs) to perform enhanced identification checks on their customers; something

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Failure to comply can result in hefty fines; as much as 10 percent of annual turnover in serious cases. Furthermore, the resultant increase in compliance staff is, in itself, becoming a burden, with some leading banks estimating that 10-15 percent of staff are now allocated to compliance.

Some bank respondents to the ADB survey admit a reluctance to serve SME clients in emerging markets, due International to the potential lack of profitability Chamber of of the client’s transactions against Commerce’s (ICC) “Rethinking Trade & Finance 2017” report the cost of onboarding them in the first place. Indeed, “de-risking” - as it proving both costly and challenging for is known - has become a significant banks. Due to the sheer volume of data banking trend in recent years. The result, of course, is a world in which required, the cost of onboarding can total up to approximately US$25,000 unmet demand is frustrating both per client. client and banker alike.

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Bridging the gap: the power of technology

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across multiple jurisdictions, for the purpose of performing KYC checks While many banks have withdrawn quickly, and at less expense. A KYC from smaller and riskier markets, banks “passporting” system holds promise are also exploring ways of addressing for cross-border trade, as it means that the trade finance gap by mitigating KYC approval in one jurisdiction could regulatory risk through other means; be transferrable to other countries, namely, through technology. without the need for additional checks For instance, KYC concerns could and, importantly, additional expense. be remedied by leveraging blockchain In a similar vein, the Financial Stability technology to centralise KYC checks.

Board’s Global Legal Entity Identifier As blockchain data exists in a shared Foundation (GLEIF) launched the Global domain, it guarantees transparency by Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) in 2014. openly recording complete transaction This online directory holds information history on a ledger, while also and details of registered companies preserving client privacy. It also means across the world - including vital data that the data on the ledger can be required for KYC checks. As this data accessed by multiple banks, helping to is both standardised and public, it can identify multiple financing or unusual be accessed by other FIs - reducing the activity.

Meanwhile, this safeguard against potential fraud and criminal activity ‘It is by utilising the also ensures compliance with AML directives, and as blockchain is relevant assets of cryptographically secure, it is not each corner of the subject to human error, or indeed, hackers. industry that we can KYC compliance issues can also be comprehensively alleviated through the development of a data-sharing platform, such as address the trade SWIFT’s KYC Registry. This allows FIs to share standardised data on clients finance gap...’

ASIA cost of KYC checks on potential clients operating in multiple jurisdictions.

Cross industry collaboration

These fintech solutions all allude to a central idea, that is a collaborative approach to avoid de-risking and close the trade finance gap.

On one level, increased correspondent banking - non-compete partnerships between local and global banks - can create an environment where banks are in a position to allocate provisions for under-served clients, such as SMEs in developing Asian markets.

Large global banks have the necessary capital and sophisticated technology at their disposal, whilst smaller banks in the APAC region can provide the in-depth local expertise needed to intelligently allocate this capital in riskier markets and avoid compliance breaches.

On a deeper level, such partnerships can be enhanced further by the use of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to allow even more industry players to seamlessly share data across customised software applications.

Certainly, proactive collaboration between FIs, fintechs, clients and, eventually, regulators is a solid path to remedying the trade finance gap.

Effective communication within the financial ecosystem can help to identify compliance-based obstacles to trade finance, create the relevant fintech solution and develop cross-jurisdiction standardisation so that the solution can be applied across the board. It is by utilising the relevant assets of each corner of the industry that we can comprehensively address the trade finance gap and help to ensure Asia’s trade opportunities can be grasped to the full.

The views expressed herein are those of the author only and may not reflect the views of BNY Mellon. This does not constitute treasury services advice, or any other business or legal advice, and it should not be relied upon as such.

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S E C T O R

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Hong Kong Mobility Masquerades ENERGY SHORTFALLS While Hong Kong affirms itself as the best city in the world for mobility, it remains clear that the environment remains an overall weakness for Asia in relation to sustainability Writer: Matthew Staff

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ong Kong leads the world for sustainable transport, according to the 2017 Sustainable Cities Mobility Index from Arcadis, the leading global Design & Consultancy for natural and built assets.

The Index was compiled for Arcadis by the Centre for Economic and Business Research (Cebr) and explores mobility through three pillars of sustainability - social (People),

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environmental (Planet) and economic (Profit) - to develop an indicative ranking of 100 of the world’s cities.

Although there is no magic recipe for the creation of successful and sustainable urban mobility, higher ranking cities have a better balance across the three pillars of sustainability.

Hong Kong scored as the best city globally for overall mobility with 65 percent. Its scoring was consistently good across the three ‘P factors’ but in People, Hong Kong ranked highest

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S E C T O R

F O C U S

Asian Cities in the 2017 Sustainable Cities Mobility Index include: CITY

OVERALL ASIA RANKING RANKING

HONG KONG

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SEOUL

4

2

SINGAPORE

8

3

TOKYO

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4

BEIJING

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5

SHENZHEN

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6

SHANGHAI

27

7

TAIPEI

30

8

GUANGZHOU 3 3

9

CHENNAI

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10

MACAU

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CHENGDU

50

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BENGALURU

56

13

NEW DELHI

60

14

MANILA

62

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WUHAN

68

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TIANJIN

70

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MUMBAI

75

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KOLKATA

82

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JAKARTA

89

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BANGKOK

92

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KUALA LUMPUR

95

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HANOI

96

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with 81 percent as it places inhabitants’ mobility at the centre of what makes the city successful and enjoyable to live in.

Boosted by its innovative and well-connected metro network and a high share of trips taken by public transport, Hong Kong manages to achieve many of the aims of an effective urban transport system; enabling comprehensive mobility, creating economic opportunity and enriching the lives of citizens, business and tourists alike. The city’s transport applications, digital capabilities and transport system upkeep scored highly, illustrating that placing efficiency and peoples’ interests is high on Hong Kong’s agenda. Hong Kong’s good bus and metro wheelchair access was also highlighted.

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2017 Sustainable Cities Mobility Index’s overall top 10: CITY

RANKING

HONG KONG

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ZURICH

2

PARIS

3

SEOUL

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PRAGUE

5

VIENNA

6

LONDON

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SINGAPORE

8

STOCKHOLM

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FRANKFURT

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Under Profit, the economic pillar of sustainability, Hong Kong ranked sixth overall and scored 100 percent on economic opportunity, suggesting the need to provide sustainable upkeep is seen as a priority and is a feature of the city’s success. The affordability of public transport against the average income also scored strongly (69 percent).

In Planet, the third pillar of sustainability, Hong Kong was 53rd overall with only Seoul, Shenzhen and Singapore scoring better out of cities in the region. It’s clear that the environment remains an overall weakness for Asia in relation to sustainability with only seven countries ranking in the top 50. In Hong Kong, green space provision scored high

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but the lack of bicycle infrastructure brought the score down, as did the lack of successful efforts to lower transport emissions. The number of electric vehicles is low and an increase in the future could be an easy option for growth in Hong Kong’s Planet score.

Aside from Hong Kong, two other Asian cities rank highly, taking two of the remaining top 10 spots, matching the results of the 2016 Sustainable Cities Mobility Index.

Modern metro systems, large airports and low usage of private vehicles

ASIA help boost the rankings of developed Asian cities such as Seoul (fourth) and Singapore (eighth). Other Asian cities would score higher were it not for damaging levels of urban pollution and emissions and several cities in the region, such as Hanoi and Kuala Lumpur, are some of the world’s least sustainable for mobility.

Francis Au, City Executive for Pearl River Delta (PRD) at Arcadis said: “Hong Kong should be congratulated for topping our Sustainable Cities Mobility Index. High-wealth cities like Hong Kong do not necessarily lead the ranking in sustainable urban mobility.

Although these factors can help, we do see wealthy cities not automatically punching their ticket to sustainable urban mobility. To ensure that Hong Kong continues to lead, it should consider how to control pollution from maritime trade, introduce more port automation, and deploy cleaning mechanisms into the harbour.”

John Batten, Global Cities Director at Arcadis added: “Cities and their policymakers face enormous pressures as they seek to meet today’s mobility challenges. As rapid urbanisation, ageing infrastructure, population growth and climate change continue to challenge our world’s cities, those that choose to make bold moves in advancing and diversifying their urban transport systems will gain a competitive edge.

We see that investing in improved and sustainable mobility will give cities enhanced productivity, attractiveness and overall quality of life.”

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N E P A L

NEPAL Nepal provides an unforgettable backdrop to an incredible history Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Ryan Gray

n the wake of the 2015 earthquake that struck Nepal, the country has remained the cultural powerhouse of the Himalayas. A particular favourite among both natives and visitors alike is the Kathmandu Valley, where you will find a collection of palaces and temples that are unrivalled anywhere in the world.

A trip to Nepal will provide you with a feast for the senses, combining breathtaking views, golden temples, charming villages and incredible wildlife. All of these factors contribute to making the country one of the most iconic places to visit in the world, as well as a blossoming business hub and the ultimate goal for mountain lovers.

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If you have enough spare time during your visit, the Himalayas has some of the world’s most iconic hiking on offer. This of course is alongside the option to try your hand at canyoning, climbing, paragliding and mountain biking, all located within the most incredible setting.

Despite the many options available, Nepal is not just for the thrill-seekers.

Many visitors will prefer to see the country at more of a leisurely pace, taking in the incredible history available there.

Tourism within the country has always thrived and with the aid of entities such as the Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) which was formed in 1966, the association has united private sector travel within Nepal.

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FACTS & FIGURES

Languages: Nepali, English Area: 147,181km2 Population (2016): 28,980,000 Currency: Nepalese rupee (NRP) Time zone: UTC+5:45 Dialling code: +977 Internet TLD: .np

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HOLIDAY LIKE THE BIG CATS!

Right next to India’s border in Bhairahawa, Nepal, surrounded by the Himalayan foothills, is a luxurious new world of exhilarating, heart-stopping entertainment, as well as relaxing, restorative experiences.

Tiger Palace Resort.

Discover a happy new hunting ground for the fun-loving side of you.

Dare to go wild! www.tigerpalace.com

RT ESO CE R sort A L PA ent re m R n E i a G , ert TI Salon d ent Pool, ’s grate , e a t p n i S ub ar, acre daC s&B • 22 urant Centre an a t s e R ss • Six ps, Wellne children open Sho om for with up to s e c d a te sp King moda eting e me an accom l p i t l • Mu ens that c g gamin gard uests h 52 t i g w 0 50 ino s ss cas d-cla 20 EGM l r o • W es and 2 tabl

N E P A L

The Business End T O U R I S M I N N E P A L has provided vast amounts of revenue for the country, and during the 50 years of its existence NATTA has been immensely successful in bringing together travel and tour operators to create a collective strength within the private sector of tourism.

“We have worked tirelessly to promote Nepal as a chief holiday and business destination,” explains Madhu Sudan Acharya, President at Nepal

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Association of Tour and Travel Agents.

“Over the years we have developed and enhanced the professionalism seen within the private sector for tourism entrepreneurs. This has been achieved through working closely with governments, I/NGOs, national and international tourism organisations and other stakeholders to better understand the constraints placed upon us.”

NATTA has made significant

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contributions to the development of the various branches of tourism for Nepal over the years, partnering with the Government and other private sector entities to successfully implement policies and programmes.

It has also generated employment for the nation, while making itself known in the international arena through marketing its tourism products and services at various road shows and exhibitions.

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Out & About N O T O N L Y W I L L Nepal provide you with beautiful and historical sights during your visit; it also has a host of exceptional activities to take part in. If you are feeling adventurous and have some time to spare, you could find yourself paragliding, rock climbing or on a helicopter tour - perhaps allow a little more time in your schedule for the first and last option.

Making time in your schedule to take in the extensive history of Nepal is highly advisable, with cultural riches everywhere you look. Depending on the area you are staying there is something to see for everyone, be that for architectural interest, religious reasons or general intrigue.

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After a long day you can sit back and enjoy some of the comforts of home in one of the many luxurious hotels available to you. Some of the better options rival any of the four and five star hotels available in western countries, providing access to free Wi-Fi, swimming pools, excellent room service and top-class restaurants.

Included in the excellent hospitality you will find in Nepal is the plethora of local and international cuisine options.

Depending on your tastes, you could enjoy the Mediterranean inspired dishes from El Mediterraneo or perhaps a more traditional experience at Le Sherpa Restaurant. You won’t be short of a place to spend a relaxing evening after a long day on your feet.

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Transport Links F I N D I N G Y O U R W A Y around Nepal can more often than not be quite a challenging business, due in part to the terrain and the condition of the vehicles available to you there.

Unfortunately damage to the country’s roads from the 2015 earthquakes has only enhanced this problem, so it is advisable to allow time in your schedule for travel.

Depending on the area you are based during your stay in Nepal, there are numerous options for travel around the country. It is now home to an excellent array of domestic airlines, including Yeti Airlines, Buddah Air and Sita Air, all of which offer frequent

flights to and from Kathmandu.

Depending on your schedule, Nepal has a wide array of transportation options available to you, including the micro bus which has become very

popular lately. This service is extremely efficient and has almost completely wiped out the local bus service that preceded it.

When it comes to taxis, it is advisable to book a private car to get you from meeting to meeting. There is also the option of a 10-Rupee taxi, however, if you are in a rush try to avoid them as the drivers will wait until the vehicle is full before leaving.

If you are enjoying the delights of some of the older parts of town, cyclerickshaws are very common there and will provide you with an atmospheric way to explore and see the best of the lesser-known areas.

Airport runway, Lukla, Nepal

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Nepal Tourism Board T H E N E P A L T O U R I S M Board (NTB) was established through an act of parliament by the Government of Nepal in 1999, as a public-private partnership used to promote Nepal as a premiere holiday destination. Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer at Nepal Tourism Board, explains to Asia Outlook the exciting changes taking place for NTB moving forward.

Asia Outlook (AsO): Since inception, how has Nepal Tourism Board developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across?

Deepak Raj Joshi (DRJ): In the years since its inception and as per its objective, NTB has promoted the tourism of Nepal internationally while also delivering its service to the private sector. The organisation has progressed in the recent years as an organisation that develops the country’s tourism through preservation of natural and cultural heritage, creating visibility for Nepal as an attractive and reliable tourism destination in the international

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market, while increasing the country’s gross domestic product, foreign exchange earnings and employment.

AsO: To this end, how would you say Nepal has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal?

DRJ: As one of the pioneering and exemplary bodies of public private partnership, NTB has representatives from the Government as well as the private sector as board members to make sure the leadership gets the best of both parts, for example visiondrawn leadership of the public sector combined with the dynamism of the private sector.

That is how we have been successful in establishing our identity in the travel business. Our continuous

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promotional efforts through every situation, taking the lead at times of crises and being open and accessible to the tourism community always, has also been a major factor in our growing partnership with our own and international tourism partners and our “growing appeal”.

AsO: Taking a more general industry stance, how would you evaluate the tourism sector in Nepal now compared to its condition when the Tourism Board began?

DRJ: The tourism industry of Nepal was a small group of pioneering entrepreneurs catering to the high-end adventure and leisure market in the early days of Nepal Tourism Board.

Almost two decades have gone by since and in these decades, there have been many changes in the dynamism of Nepal’s socio-economic sector.

With those changes, our industry changed too. Today, we have almost 6,000 companies and service providers from all over the country operating successfully and catering to different

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market segments. Our industry has definitely grown and there is more innovation now to cater to niche markets and special interests, so that tourists can have tailor-made and customised experience in Nepal.

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has been possible through dedication and consolidated efforts of the tourism industry, good leadership during times of crises, immense international support in the recent years, and of course our unmatched products. Our effort onward would be to enhance our AsO: What is in store for Nepal image and visibility in the target market over the course of 2017 and through specific programmes through beyond to continue the good work coordination and partnership with already commenced and to enhance its national and international stakeholders. reputation as a tourism and business AsO: Finally, looking forward, if travel hub further in the future?

DRJ: 2017 was a good year for we were to speak again in Nepal’s tourism industry, with the three-five year’s time, what progress international arrival numbers from and development would you hope and January to October, 2017 is about 30 expect to be able to report back, both in regards to the Nepal Tourism Board percent higher as compared to the year before. This is a milestone in the as an entity, and in regards to the history of Nepal’s tourism and is a business travel industry in Nepal as a reason for celebrating. I believe, this whole?

ASIA DRJ: In the next few years we will be working closely on different markets through targeted programmes and campaigns on site and online. We hope to be able to reach a mark of two million by 2020.

I’m also positive that our dynamic tourism industry will be able to work in more innovative ways to create new products and packages. In the changed context within the country, we are going to reach out more locally at state level and more internationally at central level. In about threefive years’ time we hope to be talking about NTB’s success story of transition into federal structure and its modus operandi then. At the time, I’m positive that we will also be talking about Nepal’s position as a top tourism destination in the world.

Boudhanath Stupa, A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Experience Spiritualism, Experience Nepal...

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N E P A L

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- Nepal Tourism Board

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Hattiban Rock Climbing Maya Devi Temple Swayambhunath Stupa Golden Temple (Kwa Bahal) 34

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Bhairahawa

Pokhara

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World Class Rafting, Kayaking, Canyoning & SUP Adventures

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Landmark Attractions Bodtnath Stupa

“The first stupa at Bodhnath was built sometime after AD 600, when the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo, converted to Buddhism. In terms of grace and purity of line, no other stupa in Nepal comes close to Bodhnath. From its whitewashed dome to its gilded tower painted with the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha, the monument is perfectly proportioned… The highly symbolic construction serves in essence as a three-dimensional reminder of the Buddha’s path towards enlightenment.”

- Lonely Planet

World Peace Pagoda

“The World Peace Pagoda is a popular destination southwest of Pokhara, situated at an altitude of almost 1000 meters. Visitors can enjoy views of the Himalayan peaks, as well as Phewa Lake and Sarangkot Mountain. To reach the World Peace Pagoda, you can take a taxi from Pokhara, but you still have to walk a bit to reach the pagoda and its main viewpoint.”

- insidehimalayas.com

Maya Devi Temple

“The spiritual heart of Lumbini, Maya Devi Temple marks the spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama. In the adjoining sacred garden you’ll find the pillar of Ashoka, ancient ruins of stupas, and maroon- and saffron-robed monks congregating under a sprawling Bodhi (pipal) tree decorated with prayer flags. Buy your entrance ticket 50m north of the gate to the Sacred Garden, and remove your shoes at the gate.”

- Lonely Planet

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Patan Museum

“Patan Museum is housed in a courtyard within the Northernmost building complex of the Durbar area. The most picturesque setting of the palace that has been created in so small a place by piety and pride is known now to the people as Keshav Narayan Chowk after a temple standing at the center of the courtyard dedicated to Keshavnarayan- a form of Lord Vishnu.This part is recorded in the history as Chaukot Durbar or fourcornered-fort-palace.”

- patanmuseum.org

Garden of Dreams

“The beautifully restored Swapna Bagaicha, or Garden of Dreams remains one of the most serene and beautiful enclaves in Kathmandu. It's two minutes' walk and one million miles from central Thamel.” - Lonely Planet

Hanuman Dhoka

“Kathmandu's royal palace, known as the Hanuman Dhoka, was originally founded during the Licchavi period (4th to 8th centuries AD) but the compound was expanded considerably by King Pratap Malla in the 17th century.

Sadly, the sprawling palace was hit hard by the 2015 earthquake and damage was extensive… the main Nasal Chowk courtyard remains open but the palace buildings are closed for reconstruction.”

- Lonely Planet

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J A K A R T A

JAKARTA

or many of the world’s most recognisable cities and most visited destinations, there is a clear intertwining link between tourism and business travel, with the former more often driving the latter. Jakarta is an exception though, thriving as a significant global city being propelled by economic prominence on a global scale.

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Indonesia’s capital bucks a trend for APAC’s most sought after destinations; leveraging economic astuteness rather than tourist appeal Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Joe Palliser

In APAC specifically, the likes of Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok have long strived to become a traveller’s staple, which in turn has encouraged business and infrastructural development on a secondary note across key parameters.

For Indonesia’s capital city and one of the world’s biggest melting pots though, the roles are reversed, and development really does mean business.

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In fact, the lines are quite clearly distinguished between the two notions; domestic visitors accounting for tourism and international swathes covering the more prominent business travel element. As the centre of economics, culture and politics in the country though, it is perhaps unsurprising.

The extent of the latter is so extensive in fact, that it now defines modern day Jakarta. Once an indictment of wider Indonesian values and history, the city now is a diverse melting pot consisting of numerous different languages, ethnic groups, religions and nationalities; while the indigenous Betawi influences are more a subtle bonus rather than the overriding lifeblood of the area.

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Seen as both a positive and negative depending on what side of the coin you are, quite severe transport challenges through overpopulation can easily be forgotten if a more varied eclectic trip is what you’re looking for. And for associations such as the Jakarta Convention & Exhibition Bureau, efforts are being made to bridge the gap and to make Jakarta as much of a localised example of Indonesian grandeur as it is a showcase of international prestige.

“In five years time if we were to speak about Jakarta as a destination [that is as appealing to tourists as much as it is to the business travel community] then I would expect to be able to say that 'we've made it',” the enabler states.

ASIA FACTS & FIGURES

Languages:

Indonesian, Javanese, Malay

Area:

661 square kilometres

Population (2014): 10 million Currency: Indonesian rupiah (Rp)

Time zone: Dialling code: Internet TLD: Climate: Highest recorded temperature:

UTC+7 +62 .id Tropical monsoon 35.6 °C

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J A K A R T A

The Business End F O R D E C A D E S N O W, the current makeup has been an inevitability with numerous business opportunities paving the way for high amounts of migrants to experience Jakarta’s renowned high standards of living and its financial potential.

With Indonesia the largest economy in ASEAN and Jakarta its central nervous system, the likelihood of a prospective visit to the archipelago on your business travels is high.

Your chances are then improved once again if you fall into its primary sectors including banking, trading, finance, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, the sciences or electronics.

The Head Office of Bank Indonesia is unsurprisingly located in Jakarta’s CBD

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while the Indonesia Stock Exchange is also housed at its core. And, again, while this doesn’t scream localisation and indigenousness for more purist tourist sects, the potential that it holds for the business travel community is undoubted. And its surrounding infrastructure has responded in kind.

Aside from its museums and eateries which do still retain large facets of Indonesian culture, the city’s general facilitation of overseas visitors focuses more on the luxurious, the enterprising and the formal.

Within the hospitality sector in particular, hotels like Hotel Mulia are continuously

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frequented by the world’s business elite, while Tauzia Hotels is one of the most significant overseers of the sector’s evolution in ensuring long-term hosting of international executives.

The need to get ahead of the game now is important too, with economic growth still a year-onyear occurrence, in general, and across all specific corporaterelated domains.

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Jakarta Convention & Exhibition Bureau W H I L E M U C H O F the city’s development in this fashion has been organic and regionally instigated, it has since turned into a concerted target.

The Jakarta Convention & Exhibition Bureau (JCNEB) explains that modern day Jakarta is actually a culmination of the Jakarta Provincial Government’s ambition to make the city the premier business events destination in Asia.

“Launched in 1994 during the General Assembly of the 33rd International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA) in Indonesia, JCNEB - then called JCB - was established by a team effort of Jakarta's meetings industry and the Jakarta Provincial Government who understood the important contribution that business events can bring to the city's economic growth, international reputation, and the quality of the business environment,” says Chief Executive Officer, Indra Sukirno. “Since then, Jakarta Convention & Exhibition Bureau has developed into becoming

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a dedicated marketing arm for the city of Jakarta; in particular in business events, and this has brought quite significant convention business to Jakarta - both association and corporate.

“JCNEB has met its key objectives by way of educating the industry about the importance of MICE business in the destination, bringing and creating business events in Jakarta.”

More and more international events are being organised in Jakarta as a consequence and in 2018 the city will be host to the 18th Asian Games which takes the theme: ‘Energy of Asia’.

Sukirno continues: “Of course it is not the only success story, and we have also had some hiccups here and there with infrastructure hindrances - especially traffic and financial challenges caused by the constant governmental failure to fully understand the industry - but being a travel hub, the industry has matured and the activities grow bigger.”

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Asia Outlook (AsO): To this end, how would you say Jakarta has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal?

Indra Sukirno (IS): Jakarta has proven a lot by introducing and constructing a number of new hotels with meeting facilities and convention centres. Jakarta as the ASEAN hub will have its convention facilities next to the

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Jakarta, Indonesia: colonial buildings on Kali Besar canal

ASEAN Secretariat in the next two years as the latest to accommodate half of the 400 meetings ASEAN holds annually. It will be a significant progression all the way.

travel hub further in the future?

IS: We will see more international events and expos coming in the near future. The first ASEAN MICE event, 'destinASEANplus', for meetings and events will be launched in April, AsO: Taking a more general 2018, as well as the Indonesia Digital industry stance, how would you Entertainment Festival, the 18th Asian evaluate the tourism sector in Jakarta Games, and much more. The ASEAN now compared to its condition when Convention Centre is also under the Jakarta Convention & Exhibition construction at the moment and new Bureau began? start-up businesses are growing thanks IS: There has been a lot of to the millennial society. improvement, that's for sure. But From a tourism perspective, we cannot move fast right now as 'diJAKARTA The Map' - an official city the Government is trying hard to map of Jakarta - will be introduced complete all infrastructure projects; as of January, 2018 to give first-hand especially traffic. Hopefully it will soon information to every visitor who walks be completed so we can start living as through Soekarno-Hatta International normal again.

Airport Terminal 3 - Domestic & International. The Map will contain AsO: What is in store for Jakarta information on 'where to go'; 'what over the course of 2017/18 and to do'; restaurants and nightlife; and beyond to continue the good work important addresses such as related already commenced and to enhance its government offices, embassies, and reputation as a tourism and business hospitals.

AsO: Finally, looking forward, if we were to speak again in three-five year’s time, what progress and development would you expect to be able to report back, both in regards to JCNEB as an entity, and in regards to the business travel industry in Jakarta as a whole?

IS: In five years time if we have to speak about Jakarta as a travel business destination and the Jakarta Convention & Exhibition Bureau, I would say that 'we've made it', as by then all our public transportation facilities will be completed, making the city more user-friendly and free from traffic jams.

Jakarta will have become a better place to live and to do business in.

JCNEB will be the only bureau in Indonesia to have consistently gone with the ups and downs and all the in-betweens; remaining financially sustainable, independent and free, but also forming stronger partnerships and cooperation between Government and private entities.

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J A K A R T A

Outlook Recommends "In five years time... Jakarta will have become a better place to live and to do business in."

- Jakarta Convention & Exhibition Bureau

ACCOMMODATION Tauzia Hotels “Simple, friendly and unique” is how Tauzia describes its business model and hospitality concept, but in truth, you could add keywords such as quality, luxury, sustainability and diverse to the list of accolades that Jakarts’a Tauzia Hotels can boast.

Established in 2001, Tauzia Hotel Management has affirmed itself as an internationally reputed Group comprising a total of around 120 hotels and properties across Indonesia, headed by its Jakarta base. With more than 120 members contributing to this continuous commitment to quality, brands including Preference, HARRIS Vertu, FOX HARRIS, YELLO, POP!, and Tauzia Estate Management form just a small portion of the organisation’s overall contribution to the country’s burgeoning hotel sector.

“Our mission is to create an innovative and eprsonalised line of products for each specific market... [and to] develop an extensive network to the benefit of our employees and clients,” Tauzia affirms on its website.

“Hotel Mulia Senayan features spacious rooms that radiate an elegant atmosphere, complete with warm hospitality that is unique to Indonesia,” the Company states. And a host of awards back up this claim, the Hotel having been recognised over a number of years for its spacious rooms, its exemplary dining facilities and its luxurious leisure offering.

Hotel Mulia Hotel Mulia describes its offering as “luxury redefined” and it’s difficult to argue with such a sentiment when exploring its refined facility in Senayan, Jakarta.

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The Hermitage Jakarta

MUSEUMS

FOOD & DRINK Signatures Restaurant Sana Sini Restaurant Tugu Kunstkring Paleis

NIGHTLIFE Lucy in the Sky Bau-Haus Jakarta Lokasari Square

LEISURE Museum Nasional

Royal Jakarta Golf Club

Museum Bank Indonesia

Ragunan Zoo

Jakarta History Museum

Adventure Indonesia

ART & CULTURE

RETAIL

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

Grand Indonesia Mall

Galeri Nasional Indonesia

Kota Kasablanka

Jakarta War Cemetery

Flea Market at Jalan Surabaya

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Out & About A S D E T A I L E D , Y O U R down time in Jakarta won’t necessarily be a culture shock or a ‘whole new world’ but this certainly isn’t to say that it won’t be enjoyable or that the city is lacking options away from the boardroom or convention hall.

In general, the city is midway through a focus to make its surroundings more appealing, its new green initiative intended to provide a calmer and more aesthetically pleasing backdrop to its business-oriented infrastructure.

And for those who do want to explore and search for something a little more intrinsically Indonesian, all is

The National Monument tower in the centre of Merdeka Square, Jakarta, symbolising the fight for Indonesia

not lost. The Betawi culture may have been watered down by international influence but it’s certainly not gone or forgotten.

Prevalent across the city’s many art and cultural festivals each year, notions of Betawi tradition and history are most commonly found in Jakarta’s cuisine. Perhaps the last, living, protected element of old, more habitual Indonesia in the capital, the city’s eateries serve up an indigenous treat.

Also adopting influences from Malay-Chinese, Sundanese and Javanese preferences, the food stalls, cafes and restaurants that line the city

streets are of course complemented by international or westernised options, but should be too tempting to ignore.

And should this whet the appetite for similarly local endeavours then look no further than the city’s numerous landmark buildings and museums.

Merdeka Square and its peripheral palatial buildings are the most iconic in terms of photo opportunities but to truly capture the essence of Indonesia from the enigmatic confines of Jakarta, then the Jakarta History Museum, Museum Nasional, Museum Bank Indonesia and the Jakarta War Cemetery are more poignant mustsees.

The entrance of the Plaza Indonesia Shopping Centre below the Grand Hyatt hotel

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J A K A R T A

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport

T R A N S P O R T I S A bit of a sensitive subject in Jakarta at present, as Sukrino alluded to, with the wider evolution of the city somewhat hindered and/or hinged on the ongoing network ‘improvements’ that are being implemented.

‘Muddled’ would be a generous description of the city’s attempts to rectify the situation however, with numerous solutions being initiated over the past few decades, but very few reaching completion or success.

The main issue surrounds the road network with more than 10 million and counting - vehicles in use around

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the area each day.

The first proposed solution was to increase the size of the roads and to facilitate such saturation; an attempt that not only failed but that sapped a lot of financial resources that may have otherwise been injected into the development of alternate travel modes.

In summary, the yearly increase in population and road users far outpaces the speed in which Jakarta’s roads are expanding and while a new electronic toll collection in 10 districts is being targeted at stemming the tide, the better option would be to at least take the stress out of your journey.

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PHOTO BY GUNAWAN KARTAPRANATA / CC BY-SA 4.0

Transport Links

Transjakarta "Busway"

Plan ahead, optimise the taxi and bus services that are on hand and - during your journey - try to look beyond the gridlock if you choose to gaze out the window instead of at your phone or a book.

It’s not all doom and gloom though!

Your initial journey to Jakarta should be seamless, being served by a Soekarno-Hatta International Airport that is also thriving (if not overrun) by the huge numbers entering the city.

Again, to counter the deluge, a fast-track service upon arrival has been introduced to ease the transition from plane, to immigration, to luggage, to customs, to the big wide city.

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PHOTO BY GUNAWAN KARTAPRANATA / CC BY-SA 4.0

Landmark Attractions Merdeka Square

“The figurative if not the literal centre of Jakarta, Merdeka Square (merdeka means independence) is actually a trapezoid measuring almost one square kilometres. In the 19th century, the Dutch called it Koningsplein (Kings Square) and it became a focal point for the city after they moved the government here from old Batavia (Kota). It's always had an important role in local life. Today, once you've come to terms with the absurd fencing, you'll find a place where Jakartans come to breathe.”

- Lonely Planet

Merdeka Palace

“The Merdeka Palace is one of six presidential palaces in Indonesia. It is located on the north side of the Merdeka Square in Central Jakarta, Indonesia and is used as the official residence of the President of the Republic of Indonesia. The Merdeka Palace is part of the 6.8 hectare Jakarta Presidential Palace Complex, which also includes the Negara Palace, Wisma Negara, Sekretariat Negara, and the Bina Graha building. It is the centre of the Indonesian executive authority.”

- Wikipedia

Selamat Datang Monument (Bunaran HI)

PHOTO BY GUNAWAN KARTAPRANATA / CC BY-SA 4.0

Jin De Yuan

“First constructed in 1650, the Temple called Jin de Yuan for ‘good fortune' in Chinese and Vihara Dharma Bakti or ‘virtues of the golden temple' in Indonesian is the oldest in Jakarta. Members of the local Chinese community continue to come to pray here, be they Buddhist, Confucian, or Taoist. A very special atmosphere still reigns in the middle of the offerings, bells, drums, and calligraphy.”

- AirFrance

“Known as Jakarta’s welcoming statue, Bundaran HI is an impressive sculpture in the heart of downtown.

Proudly standing as a welcome to locals and visitors alike, the historic landmark is one of Jakarta’s most prominent attractions and a striking part of the city skyline. Discover the Selamat Datang monument and see why it is one of the city’s best cultural attractions when you stay at Sari Pan Pacific Jakarta.”

- Sari Pan Pacific

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M Y A N M A R

MYANMAR Myanmar is investing in building a new name for itself, building upon its vibrant history to create an empire for tourism Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Joe Palliser

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yanmar perfectly pays homage to the extraordinary history of its lands, scattered with reminders of Asia’s traditions. A trip here will be like no other business trip you have been on, with surprises that will please even the most jaded of travellers.

The past few years have seen times of great change in Myanmar, beginning in 2015 with the first democratically elected government seen by the country in more than 50 years. This change brought about great moves for business and investment, as well as improved travel availabilities, mobile phone coverage and internet access. With the aforementioned improvements to infrastructure within the country, Myanmar is becoming a far more

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appealing entity for business.

The changes to the pace of living in Myanmar haven’t been completely overwhelming, avoiding the destruction of its character and charm.

You’ll encounter locals who are gentle, humorous and passionate about their home, showing all that the country has to offer.

Currently the country is going through exciting changes in order to cement its reputation as one of the top tourist and business tourism destinations in Asia. Myanmar Tourism Marketing is making inroads in the development of the country’s publicity when it comes to attracting a new wave of tourists; adopting methods such as working with airlines and influencers in other countries to broaden its reach and attract new markets, including business travellers.

ASIA FACTS & FIGURES

Capital: Languages: Area: Population (2017): GDP (2017): Currency: Time zone: Dialling code: Internet TLD:

Naypyidaw Burmese 676,578 km2 53,582,855 $334,856 billion Kyat UTC+6.5 +95 .mm

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M Y A N M A R

The Business End

A L T H O U G H T H E C O U N T R Y is experiencing a rebirth when it comes to industry and tourism, it is still one of the poorest nations in Southeast Asia after decades of mismanagement and isolation.

In Myanmar, many years of political and economic struggles have massively affected the standards of living for residents. It has been a huge factor in the development of the country to improve the living conditions, as well as social and economic standards within the country.

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Infrastructure developments are intertwining with age-old traditions and culture

Since around 1992 the local Government has encouraged the growth of tourism in Myanmar and more recently business tourism. The most popular regions for tourism are

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Yangon and Mandalay, with an array of religious sites among the more modern business complexes.

In recent years, both China and India have attempted to strengthen the ties it has with Myanmar’s Government for economic benefits. The biggest economic changes have been seen in the aforementioned large cities and towns, making Myanmar a place that is very much in the process of big and exciting changes.

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Out & About W H E N I T C O M E S to getting into the country, airlines such as Bangkok Airways provide an excellent service to Mandalay, Naypyidaw and Yangon.

The country is the perfect spot for both business and pleasure, especially when travelling to the major cities where everything is within easy

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walking distance from your hotel.

The Summit Parkview Yangon Hotel provides the perfect base, where warm hospitality awaits you after a long journey. Situated in the perfect position for exploration of Yangon, the hotel sits in the heart of the city and provides top-class services and facilities to its guests.

Depending on how you like to spend your downtime, there are a plethora of options available to you to get a real feel for the country. If you find yourself with a full day to spare, Balloons Over Bagan is an experience not to be missed, providing you with breathtaking views of the region.

When it comes to finding some

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Shan Yoe Yar restaurant

top-spots to eat, Myanmar provides an exceptional array for every taste and price range. If you are in the mood for fine dining then Shan Yoe Yar restaurant is not to be missed, alternatively for a slightly more relaxed feel, Shwe Sa Bwe is the perfect place to spend a quiet evening.

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Myanmar Tourism Marketing MYANMAR TOURISM MARKETING (MTM) began operations 20 years ago, originally known as the Myanmar Marketing Committee. It was set up by a select group of tourism entrepreneurs, aiming to promote Myanmar as the new tourist destination of choice.

May Myat Mon Win, Chairperson at Myanmar Tourism Marketing, explains how the non-profit organisation is moving forward with the ever-changing needs of the tourism industry.

a sustainable growth of tourism in Myanmar.

Overall, the message we would like to send out to the world is that Myanmar is magical 365 days of the year, safe, secure and with warm friendly people.

AsO: To this end, how would you say Myanmar has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal?

MMMW: In recent years MTM has Asia Outlook (AsO): Since seen a growth in trade shows and we inception, how has Myanmar started familiarisation trips together Tourism Marketing developed and with international airlines, for example progressed in terms of its key Emirates Airlines who we cooperated objectives and the messages it tries to with to bring a group of Cambodian get across? outbound travel agents and to bring May Myat Mon Win (MMMW): MTM UK and German travel agents. has grown over the years and started Myanmar Tourism Marketing hopes with organising familiarisation trips, to work together with more airlines while ensuring tourism companies from to bring travel writers, journalists, Myanmar have a presence at major bloggers, ‘Instagrammers’ and other travel trade fairs around the world. influencers to the country to show the In addition, MTM has started a broad best of the country. social media platform and is actively in contact with travel writers from around AsO: Taking a more general to world with the aim to promote industry stance, how would you

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evaluate the tourism sector in Myanmar now compared to its condition when MTM began?

MMMW: The tourism sector in Myanmar has come a long way since the “Visit Myanmar Year” in 1996.

At that time the country was really attractive for the innovators, the people that were first to visit a new destination. Around 2011 the country became more positively in the picture with an elected government and that was the start of the “early adapters” coming to visit Myanmar.

During the past few years the country’s infrastructure has improved tremendously and some of the improvements noticeable for tourists are fast and cheap mobile intern network throughout the country, brand new airports, many new hotels, better quality cars and roads etc.

Myanmar is now ready to welcome the “early majority” of visitors to the country.

AsO: What is in store for Myanmar over the course of 2017 and beyond to continue the good work already commenced and to enhance its

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etc have adapted to modern travel facilities while the country’s sights and people continue to offer a magical atmosphere all year round.

reputation as a tourism and business travel hub further in the future?

MMMW: The rest of 2017 and the beginning of 2018 will see more hotel openings in Yangon like the Pan Pacific, the Kempinksi, Excelsior and the Pullman hotel in the city centre.

Together with the recently opened Lotte hotel this means there is more choice than ever for tourists and business travellers visiting Yangon and prices are very competitive for visitors compared to other Asian cities and compared to prices a few years back when there was a shortage of rooms.

New hotel openings are also planned for Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake, Ngapali Beach, Hpa-an and the rest of the country and all repeat visitors to Myanmar will be pleasantly surprised seeing that accommodation, airports

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 MTM as an entity, and in regards to the business travel industry in Myanmar as a whole?

MMMW: Myanmar Tourism Marketing hopes to achieve a growth in yearly number of tourists from around the world especially during the green season (May – September) as this is

actually one of the best periods to visit places like Mandalay, Bagan, Kalaw and Inle Lake as it’s green and cooler.

We hope to receive additional budgets to focus more on a younger target group and explain these people that Myanmar is not only about visiting temples but has a lot more to offer for young people as well. The Myanmar food has a huge variation of dishes with influences from more than 135 tribes and therefore the destination is excellent for foodies, there are many biking and trekking possibilities and festivals like the traditional Myanmar water festival are good fun as its basically one big water gun fight for adults and kids alike.

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Outlook recommends "During the past few years the country's infrastructure has improved tremendously."

- Myanmar Tourism Marketing

HOSPITALITY

FOOD & DRINK

Summit Parkview Yangon Hotel

Shan Yoe Yar Restaurant

TRANSPORT

Shwe Sa Bwe Le Planteur Restaurant & Lounge ACTIVITIES

Bangkok Airways Bangkok Airways was established in 1968, initially named Sahakol Air and the first private aviation Company located in Thailand. Air transportation has become increasingly important with the rapid growth of tourism and the Company is matching that need with increased capabilities.

Go-Myanmar.com

Melia Hotel Yangon Silk Road to Asia Silk Road to Asia Travels & Tours Co., Ltd offers an array of tour packages, with an exceptional reputation for quality and customer care. The Company’s slogan is to ‘Make your dream trip happen with Silk Road to Asia’, achieved through readymade tour programmes and services and a passion for exceeding client expectations.

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TEMPLES

Balloons Over Bagan

Shwedagon Paya

Morning Cycling Tour in Mandalay

Dhammayangyi Pahto

Ananda Pahto

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Summit Parkview, the first international hotel in Yangon, is located in the up market vicinity of Embassies, Shopping Centers, Food Outlets, National Museum and facing the lush, green People’s Park. It is near the Tatmadaw Exhibition Hall and the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda. It is a 10 minutes drive to Downtown and 30 minutes to and from Yangon International Airport. Summit Parkview Hotel occupies an accessible location that offers great convenience to guests and welcomes you with its quaint Myanmar architecture frontage, sets within a manicured garden.

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Living in Summit, indulge yourself Facilities / Services * Restaurant & Bar * Business Center * Gymnasium * Ballroom & meeting rooms * Shops & Clinic * In-room safe box

* * * * * *

350 Ahlone Road, Dagon Township, Yangon, Myanmar. | T: (95-1) 211 888, 211 966 | E: reservation@summityangon.com |

Concierge & Transportation Services ATM & Foreign Currencies Exchange Service Complimentary Wi-Fi Access Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services 24 hours in-room dining 24 hours Security & CCTV surveillance | www.summityangon.com

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Landmark Attractions Shwedagon Paya

“One of Buddhism's most sacred sites, the 325ft zedi (stupa) here is adorned with 27 metric tons of gold leaf, along with thousands of diamonds and other gems, and is believed to enshrine eight hairs of the Gautama Buddha as well as relics of three former buddhas…

Four entrance stairways lead to the main terrace. Visit at dawn if you want tranquillity; otherwise, pay your respects when the golden stupa flames crimson and burnt orange in the setting sun.”

- Lonely Planet

Ananda Pahto

“The Ananda temple is one of Bagan’s best known and most beautiful temples. It was one of the first great temples to be build in Bagan and is well preserved. The temple is found near the Tharabar gate, the only gate remaining of the original 12 in the old Bagan city walls… The temple’s most distinctive feature is the gilded sikhara, the tower like spire on top of the pagoda. The reflection of the gilded sikhara is visible from miles away over the Bagan plains. After dark the Ananda Pagoda is lit up by spotlights creating a mystical atmosphere.”

- renown-travel.com

Mandalay Hill

“Just outside the North of downtown, Mandalay Hill which summit is 230 m above the surrounding plain is the natural watch-tower for the visitors to watch sunrise or sunset over the city plains. Everyone who arrived in Mandalay, the ancient capital of Myanmar, usually goes to Mandalay Hill, the landmark of Mandalay, which overlooks the city.”

- Myanmar Travel Information

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Transport Links M Y A N M A R H A S A notoriously interesting reputation when it comes to transportation, often described as slow and loud with questionable safety. However, the sheer variety of travel options you will find there more than makes up for some of the older methods of finding your way around the country.

If you have some time on your hands then you will find your feet can get you to many places with ease, be that for exploration purposes or getting yourself from meeting to meeting. If you do choose this as your method of transport, remember to apply plenty of sun cream and where possible avoid the midday sun.

Although they are slowly fading out of the country, Tuk Tuks are still available with negotiable rates based

of city buses which are generally reliable forms of transportation.

Smaller towns rely quite heavily on motorcycle taxis and trishaws as the main mode of transport, so bare that in mind if you intend to spend a free day exploring.

on the distance you need to travel.

Often if required, a driver will wait for you at your destination if they know they have secured a return fare.

Depending on your placement within the country, larger towns located within Myanmar have a variety

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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 month’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 we’ll tell the world.

Matthew Staff, Editorial Director Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 655 matthew.staff@outlookpublishing.com

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Proud

Contributors The Building Faรงade Group demonstrates excellence well beyond its years, achieving construction projects built around structural perfection Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Tom Cullum

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G R O U P

he emergence of specialist façade engineering began as a useful advisory service for building design teams, specifically focusing on large and complex buildings in the early 1990s before becoming an entity in itself.

It was a trend that caught on predominantly with thanks to the aspirations of developers that wanted to create fantastic, large-scale projects that would require specialist attention to be executed to the required standard of excellence. One such company to capitalise this required standard of excellence has been Building Façade Group.

“When it comes to the image and face of a building, companies such as ourselves have embraced new products and technologies that enable the façade to look good while also performing well,” begins Sani Chang, Managing Director at the

GSK HQ (Boustead)

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ringing ideas to shape for almost 50 years, LHL International has contributed in many ways to change the skyline of Singapore. Throughout this journey LHL had worked with numerous reputable developers, architects, main contractors and façade consultants. There is close collaboration and partnership amongst all stakeholders and the results is a beautiful façade erected with pride.

approach unrivalled by most in the sector. Meanwhile, the strategic locations of Singapore and Malaysia promote localisation, securing close proximity to clients as much as possible.

“It affords quick turnaround times for products to be manufactured and delivered to the project sites,” explains the Company. “Close proximity also allows for easy access for the clients to closely monitor the production activities, giving As the Company prepares to celebrate them assurance in the quality and its half century in 2018, it has a production process.” plethora of projects to look back on LHL’s partnership with BFG dates with pride across the APAC region; driven by its strategic hubs located in back a number of years, with the latter thriving as a façade consultant Singapore and Malaysia. that provides all the design The respective Jurong Port Road and guidelines to balance LHL’s technical Johor Bahru facilities have become competency and innovation across figurative platforms from which the every requirement. There are often Company has flourished since 1968, discussions for new ideas and new through the design and construct of ways of improving the design with aluminium and glass Façades. minimum cost; promoting aesthetics as the key consideration.

Especially noted for its state-of-theart building envelope systems and aluminium architectural products, LHL has evolved from an ethos that revolves around two key components: A strong design team, and an innovative project team.

While the former spearheads all design developments for the Company’s numerous projects, the latter works in collaboration to manage each project to successful completion; on time, and within budget.

Strong design and project management acumen not only ensures a quality end product or service, but it facilitates a personable

At the same time there is no compromise on quality or compliance to all technical specifications for every project. BFG is open to receiving suggestions and allowing for changes that will benefit the client. In all these years of collaboration, LHL and BFG had developed a strong working relationship.

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G R O U P

Ng Teng Fong General Hospital

Building Façade Group (BFG) (HCCH Consultancy Pte Ltd). “It is in this climate that we began our work within this sector as façade consultants and construction practitioners.”

In 2010 a select few individuals within the design and construction sector came together and decided to take the plunge in setting up their own privately-owned façade consultancy practice.

“It was an incredibly difficult start as we were competing against large multinational engineering companies; doing so with limited capital,” explains Chang. “Between us we had sufficient drive and experience that worked in our favour, alongside years of excellent work in the industry that helped to garner support.

“Seven years on and many happy clients later, we can proudly say that the majority of our client base includes many repeat supporters and that is one of the most satisfying outcomes we could have hoped for.”

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ri Pacific Engineering Sdn Bhd has been a leading industry expert since the Company was established in 1990, focusing its efforts on specialising specifically in façade works for both medium and large commercial buildings and Façades.

The Company has built a reputation over the years for producing high standards and professional service, using the best possible materials that ensure the demanding needs of the industry are always met.

Having hailed itself as one of the market leaders at present, Tri Pacific Engineering consistently has the ability to provide clients with innovative designs; assured manufacturing quality that means it will always achieve timely installation services.

During the past decade in particular, Tri Pacific has proved its ability time and time again when it comes to the broad scope of experiences and services it can offer. Its assurance and impeccable experiences have ensured that the Company is sought after by a multitude of architects, consultants and developers due to its impeccable assertiveness when it comes to handling complex and challenging projects.

Since the Company’s incorporation more than 20 years ago, the founding vision has always been very clear; to ensure the utilisation of façade materials in everyday use. This is an aspect that the Company has become renowned for, applying innovative thinking and techniques while pushing technological limits in order to fabricate both an architecturally complex and pleasing Façade.

With every year we are operating in the industry, Tri Pacific Engineering’s confidence is growing, as is the Company’s aim to

become the premier service solution provider for façade design.

Some of the key projects for the Company have included KL Eco City, A Centre of Excellence (ACE) and Mid Valley Phase 3, all of which utilised the products Tri Pacific has become so well renowned for.

In order to provide these highly specialised services in façade works, Tri Pacific Engineering has a purpose built factory that is perfectly equipped with state-of-the-art fabrication and assembly machinery. The aforementioned machinery includes profile assembly, panel manufacture and bonding equipment, all of which is fully automated and ensures the highest quality production and accurate delivery.

With thanks to its excellent team of experienced industry professionals in the relevant machinery, the Company has some of the best knowledge available to handle a wide scope of specialist material related jobs.

These jobs include aluminium cladding, glass and stainless hand railing, suspended ceilings, shop fronts, metal deck roofing, staircase and escalator, panel cladding, frameless glass assemblies, suspended glass assemblies, full and semi-structural glazing, specialised internal partitions, tension, cable rod system glass wall and other façade works.

T + 603 8723 3066 E tripesb@hotmail.com

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Mediacorp building

Open economy

At present, the building design arena - which includes Façades - is becoming increasingly accessible, with design ideas and images shared all over the world instantaneously. Design teams from any country can contribute and communicate seamlessly on projects and the availability and cost of materials from any global source has never been so accessible.

“As Singapore is an open economy, we have learned to successfully leverage ideas globally,” continues Chang. “Over the past seven years this has made us far more accepting of new ideas and applications for projects.

Being open to working outside of your country’s boarders should be the linchpin for all consultancies in our industry.”

The Company’s services cover a wide spectrum of market needs, including concepts, cost planning, design development, tender documentation and construction.

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Concepts come to life

“When it comes to the concept for building design, we provide an excellent service that includes location, massing and orientation of basic building forms and façade systems, shading strategies, structural loads, materiality and concepts for building maintenance,” states Chang. “Alongside our early concept stages, our skills in cost planning are always helpful with thanks to our close knowledge of façade costs and obtaining budget rates from both suppliers and contractors as part of the service.”

When it comes to the design and development stage, the Company will continue to provide technical design resolutions for façades. This is achieved through coordinating with the project architect, structural and MEP engineers, fire and security designers, landscapers, acoustic engineers and signage designers.

“During the proceeding stages of construction, we are still heavily

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AKZONOBEL

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kzoNobel is a proud partner to BFG-HCCH Consulting in providing coatings solutions that bring inspiration, durability and peace of mind to residential, commercial, and landmark projects.

With over a 45-year global track record, AkzoNobel’s Interpon® D range powder coatings can provide coating solutions for all performance demands and environments. With products to meet all major architectural specification standards, BFG-HCCH teams have complete design flexibility for domestic and international projects with the Interpon D range. All products are backed by global warranties.

The Interpon® D range encompasses three series’ of products which are available worldwide:

Mediacorp building

involved in the process while also providing advice,” adds Chang. “We can offer technical reviews of material submissions, fabrication quality, engineering accuracy, design checks and testing verification before any façade elements are built on site.”

Another string to the bow of the Building Façade Group is the due diligence and diagnostics inspections of completed buildings’ façades. These services are delivered to those that may be looking into purchasing an existing building, establishing the vulnerabilities of existing façade conditions in order for customers to budget accordingly.

Core concept

The Company is responsible for the MediaCorp building located in Singapore, which has become a landmark attraction. Standing at 77 metres (m) in height and 240m in length, the building has essentially been turned on its side and houses corporate offices, television and radio

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broadcasting facilities, a theatre and recording studios for MediaCorp.

“The core architectural concept for us to achieve when it came to designing the building’s façade was to reflect society, due especially to the fact that we were representing a media corporation,” explains Chang. “The material that we decided to work with was a misty and reflective surface, taking on an everchanging appearance throughout the day reflecting the colours of the sky. The final outcome for the building’s form is incredibly bold, with clean and crisp detailing.”

The key factor in achieving this exceptional and individual look for BFG was the selection of solid stainless steel panels.

Chang states: “One of the main difficulties that we encountered was keeping the façade development within budget, and at times we needed to reallocate parts of the budget from non-critical Façades in order to keep the design intent for this project alive.”

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Interpon® D3000 Fluoromax® is the first product in a new generation of hyper-durable architectural powder coatings, providing the ultimate in exterior durability. Interpon D3000 products offer a powder alternative to high performance liquid coatings such as PVDF and meet AAMA 2605.

Interpon® D2000 Super-Durable Polyester series encompasses a range of products, based on AkzoNobel polymer technology, which have been proven since 1990 to give outstanding exterior durability and meet AAMA 2604. Within the Interpon D2000 series, Collection Eternity is comprised of powder coatings capable of reflecting Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx heat generated by exposure to direct sunlight. Coatings in this collection can offset the effects of Urban Heat Islands, helping to reduce energy costs up to seven percent.

Interpon® D1000 series standard durability architectural polyester powder coatings are recommended for use in normal weathering environments or interior applications. First used in 1972, Interpon D1000 series products have a track record on buildings all around the world. When specifying Interpon D1000 series the architect can be confident to meet AAMA 2603.

Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx

Interpon D The leading brand in architectural coatings offering the best warranties in the industry Interpon D is the leading brand in architectural coatings, with the longest track record, providing protection on commercial buildings, residential projects and landmarks across the globe.

Interpon D offers the most inspirational color ranges and the best warranties in the industry, protecting your investment for the long term and offering peace of mind with your coatings choice.

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Available across 40 countries globally, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam.

For more information visit www.Interpon.com

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THE AGC GROUP

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he AGC Group takes pride in the world-class level of our core technologies, glass, electronics, ceramics, and fluorine chemistry. The Company has achieved a business portfolio that balances stability and potential for growth, allowing it to enjoy top global shares in a number of product fields.

LUMIFLON TM is a trademark of Asahi Glass Co.,Ltd and fluoropolymer resin for coating. LUMIFLON TM has developed and commercialised in 1982, as a new type of fluoropolymer resin.

Coating based on fluoropolymer resins are recognised as the most exterior durable finishes commercially available.

T +65 6273 5656 E aap.enquiry@agc.com

www.agc-asiapacific.com

Detailed project elements

There are a select few key features that the Company has to take into consideration when it came to both this project and all other aspects of façade design, manufacture and installation.

“Early design mock-ups prove to be an important part of any project,” adds Chang. “A good example is with the MediaCorp building, in which we had to use a variety of glass and stainless panels for design appreciation and this was all before there was any contractors linked to the project.

“Using these mock-ups, we were then able to convince the design team and clients of our design intent, while also determining the detailed elements of the project.”

Detailed planning in the MediaCorp project helped to convince the Building Authority, client and contractors of the final material procurement that can now be seen within the structure.

Its attention to detail in all aspects

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GNT GLASS GnT: Vision for Better Glass Positioning itself as a complex fabricated glass product provider with a mission of offering quality glass to customers, GnT always strives to make improvement with respects to creative and innovative technology.

By cooperating with international manufacturers like Vitro-PPG, Guardian, Saint-Gobain, Glastrosch, Pilkington, AGC, Sefar, etc., GnT has successfully completed various landmark projects worldwide with renowned international architects and consultants in North America, Europe, Australia, the Middle East and Asia.

Located in the core of Pearl Delta area China, GnT is advantageous to provide fast and effective service to international markets by utilising the shipping ports, airports and high-speed road networks.

Landmark constructs

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Why replace?

Just upgrade heat issue

noise issue

ATTOCHTM is a retrofitting solution which transforms existing single pane windows into energy-saving double-glazing glass with improved comfort and convenience for existing building occupants, without replacing the existing glass facade.

The ATTOCHTM solution can be done without scaffoldings and sash replacement, with the attachment of Low- E glass to the existing glass from inside the office or apartment.

With over 110 years of experience, AGC has expanded its business from glass to the development and manufacturing of Chemicals, electronics, and ceramic products.

condensation issue

Scan QR for more info

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WUJIANG GOLDEN GLASS

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ujiang Golden Glass Technologies Limited (Golden Glass) has been a leading fabricator of high-end building glass since 1994. It offers high-performance coating solution from world leading supplier such as AGC, Guardian, Saint Gobain, Vitro-PPG and Troesch.

Golden Glass provide lamination with SGP or various kinds of PVB combined with digital print & ceramic frit & back paint.

Golden Glass is also well know for its experience in special safety system such as fire-rated or bullet-resistant curtainwall & window& door with steel frame.

The Company commits itself to providing the best performing, cost competitive and reliable products whilst maintaining the highest industrial standards.

Architecture that reflects society

T +86 512 6311 8860 E chenc@golden-glass.cn

www.golden-glass.cn

of the building process, as well as the continuous verification and improvements made to façade designs with the entire design team has brought the final façade design to a distinctively high level of skill that is recognised by all. The level of excellence demonstrated in its work on the aforementioned MediaCorp building has contributed to the achievement of a BCA Construction Excellence Award this year.

Invaluable experience

“We have been exceptionally lucky to work on projects with clients whose reach spreads widely in the region; for example CapitaLand, OUE Properties, YTL Corporation and RMZ Corp,” explains Chang. “Each has brought an array of invaluable experiences to our knowledge and portfolio, and they have often brought us to work with them on their regional projects.

“As we have a moderate collective strength of 40 members of staff we

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XINYI GLASS

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inyi Glass Holdings Limited was founded in 1988. The Company is one of the world’s leading integrated glass manufacturers, and its product range includes high-quality float glass, automobile glass and low-e coating glass.

In addition to its seven industrial bases spread across China, the Company has invested in the construction of largescale production bases in Malaysia and Canada in order to develop its presence in overseas markets.

In partnership with Building Façade Group, the Company has completed the Singapore State Court project and has further projects on the horizon which will continue to showcase its excellent partnership.

T +852 3919 2888

www.xinyiglass.com

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Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited, a major supplier in the global supply chain, was founded in 1988 and listed on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in February 2005.

(Stock Code:00868.HK)Xinyi is the world’ s leading integrated glass manufacturer which cover a wide range of product including high-quality float glass, automobile glass , engineering glass and electronic Glass etc. Xinyi Seven industrial bases, Shenzhen, Dongguan, Jiangmen, Wuhu, Tianjin, Yingkou, Deyang are located in the eastern Yangtze River delta area, the southern Pearl River delta area, the northern Beijing-Tianjin region and the western Chengdu-Chongqing region which are the most active domestic economy zones in China.In 2015, Xinyi Glass invested in the construction of large-scale production base in Malaysia in order to develop overseas markets.Currently , Xinyi Glass has been a listed company with total market capital of HK $ 23.3 billion and more than HK $ 10 billion annual revenue. Meanwhile, Xinyi glass has a total area of over 5.3 million square meters and around 12,000 employees. The Group is a constituent of Hang Seng Global Composite Index, Hang Seng Composite Index, Hang Seng Composite MidCap Index, Hang Seng Composite Industry Index-Industrials, as well as MSCI Hong Kong Small Cap Index.

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cannot take on every project, however, the ones we do take on we are able to enjoy immensely.”

With a relatively small workforce, BFG has had to search for knowledgeable local staff to work with them in the many countries that its work will take them to. Of course this is no easy task; however, there are many young professionals out there who are keen to pursue their architectural or engineering ambitions through working for a company such as BFG. “I hope that we bring experience to both our employees and customers, always working hard to provide them with the most user-friendly advice possible,” explains Chang. “When it comes to relationships with customers, we pride ourselves on recognising

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their concerns and ambitions within projects.

“It is due to those factors that we never fail to deliver what our client wants; taking the fuss and stress out of the process that they may have had if dealing with a large engineering company.”

Alongside its excellence and experience within the industry - fostered in a relatively short space of time - the business has also secured a reputation as a respectable and honest broker that is committed to gaining the best technical solutions for all parties involved.

Chang concludes: “I hope that moving forward we will continue on with this tradition of high-spirit and technical excellence, utilising our excellent staff and working on an array of exciting projects.”

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n order to maintain a high quality standard of glass products, our Company is committed to establish a team of professional quality control personnel.

With BFG as a professional consultant Company, Mr Sani Chang and his team have provided a lot of valuable opinions for all technical matters and professional guidance during the process of production control. This has greatly helped us to undertake and complete various projects without any difficulty.

Now, as the only building glass supplier with an “independent quality control system”, we have been widely recognised by the market. We are also firmly committed to the direction of developing high-end products based on quality control.

T +65 6264 2926 E sales@sgcorp.biz

www.sgcorp.biz

“We have been exceptionally lucky to work on projects with clients whose reach spreads widely in the region...”

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A TRUSTED BUILDER

Combining one of the world’s most renowned brand names with one of the region’s most accomplished construction portfolios, Samsung C&T (KL) Sdn Bhd continues to contribute to Malaysia’s civil evolution Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Tom Cullum

etween 2012 and 2016, Samsung C&T Corporation’s engineering and construction group subsidiary, Samsung C&T (KL) Sdn Bhd secured six projects simultaneously in Malaysia, accumulating a total contract value close to RM9 billion. Adjacently increasing its workforce to comprise more than 450 dedicated personnel, a subsequent strategic rebranding to Samsung C&T (KL) Sdn Bhd in 2013 has

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and will continue to see such developments continue in the future as the business looks to better align itself to the values of its parent organisation, and the needs of its clients.

Initially known as Samsung Engineering & Construction (M) Sdn Bhd, incorporated since 5 October, 1990, the business in its current guise remains a 100 percent owned subsidiary of the wider - and internationally renowned - Samsung

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C&T Corporation. No matter the name though, the vision has remained consistent: “to be responsible for and to deal with all business activities in Malaysia, including to fulfil and to meet all obligations and requirements set by the Malaysian authorities and related business parties”.

Managing Director, Daniel Kim introduces: “Our business operations are fully supported by our regional headquarters based in Singapore and overseen by our Seoul headquarters

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in term of engineering, financing and management etc. Our business activities in Malaysia offer a full range of services in engineering, procurement and construction in the areas of building, civil infrastructure and energy/power plants; similar to all our offices worldwide.”

In each presence point, Samsung C&T has made a name for itself not just through the end products and stunning constructs, but through its involvement in projects that are vital to

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each nation’s own economic and social growth ambitions.

“Our focus of interest in Malaysia includes high-rise buildings and largescale mixed developments (office buildings, residential towers, luxury hotels, shopping malls); energy/power plants (combine cycle gas power plants, coal thermal power plants, hydro power plants, nuclear energy power plants); and infrastructure developments (rail transportation, long-span bridges, dams, ports),” Kim continues.

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With the world’s most advanced technological expertise and experience in building, civil infrastructure, plant businesses, the Engineering & Construction Group is dedicated to providing customers with the best value Incheon Bridge, South Korea

“We are able to provide value engineering, new technologies and a wide range of expertise to support our stakeholders in the construction of challenging and complex projects.

“We are also supportive and respectful of the local business communities and seek to engage in projects where the local market lacks capability and is dependent on our support for technical ingenuity and expertise.”

A melting pot

Clients to have enjoyed this technical ingenuity and expertise over the past 27 years vary from private developers to government bodies; Samsung retaining close engagement, collaboration and communication in every case.

“We listen attentively to our clients’ voices to fully understand and deliver projects which satisfy their needs,” Kim affirms.

And this has been one of the

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driving philosophies of the business since its inception, channelling the values of its parent organisation into early projects which included the Samsung Electronics Manufacturing Complex at Tuanku Jaafar, Seremban and the Seremban Golf Resort. Five commercial buildings then followed throughout the 1990s including MNI Twins, Lusaka Office Tower, Petronas Tower 2 & Skybridge, Ampang Tower (Menara Maxis), and AIA office Tower; all in Kuala Lumpur.

“The 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers successfully completed in 1997 had become the world’s tallest building at that point in time and also elevated our construction and engineering capabilities in the highrise building arena,” Kim elaborates regarding the Company’s standout achievement. “During this period, we had more than 400 staff members and was one of the biggest and most active overseas branches.”

The unforeseen 1998 global financial

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crisis curtailed progress in Malaysia for a 10-year period as attentions turned towards Middle Eastern and neighbouring APAC markets, but by 2010, the country was very much back on the agenda, and from that point on, Samsung C&T hasn’t looked back.

“Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures and we place great emphasis on understanding the needs, values and aspiration of its people,” Kim explains. “In essence, our vision is to become “The Trusted Builder” by operating our business with principles that guide each of our decisions and actions to cultivate trust through longterm relationships and partnerships with our clients and stakeholders; upholding the highest standards of safety, quality and commitment in delivery.

“We assume responsibility for every phase of our work, from conception to completion and we focus deeply on our impact on our clients, communities and the future.”

AN INTERNATIONAL HUB IN THE MAKING. With an international award under its belt, UMCity Medini Lakeside, a top-notch integrated development will offer branded retail outlets, alfresco F&B outlets, a premium office tower, a hotel and two residential components. Spread across 5.03 acres, the RM1.2 billion project will also front a beautifully landscaped lake park.

Features The UMCity office tower which garnered the Best International Office Development Award at the International Property Awards 2015 in London is currently being constructed by world-class builder, Samsung C&T of Korea.

It features a total of 108 Grade A quality low density business suites, with modern premium office designs. Businesses could take their pick from four spacious and flexible layout options, ranging from 772 sq ft to 1,812 sq ft. UMLand’s effort towards impeccable design, quality, service innovation, and commitment to sustainability have not gone unnoticed, as testified by its international award win, leveraging on technology and innovation to provide excellent property products.

Some of the many modern facilities include automated waste collection systems, high-speed broadband access with a fibre optic backbone to support network infrastructure and a comprehensive building management system. The corporate tower is also fitted with Samsung air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation (ACMV) systems to minimise the use of resources and conserve energy. Ozo, a member of the ONYX Hospitality Group is tasked with the

management of the hotel block as well as the Shama Medini luxury serviced residences. The latter will offer 196 homes ranging from 583 sq ft – 1,192 sq ft. Buyers of the Shama homes have the option to lease back their units for a guaranteed rental return of 6% for the first five years of the leaseback scheme. The next 10 years will be a revenue-sharing model, in which 45 percent of the rental revenue will be shared by the owners.

Conveniences UMCity Medini Lakeside enjoys a strategic location that is with close proximity to a host of amenities. Located nearby is the Johor Premium Outlet. The central business district of Medini Zone B, Johor Bahru’s central business district, EduCity and Gleneagles Hospital Medini. Tourist hotspots, Legoland Park, Pinewood Studios and Puteri Harbour are also within a few minutes drive while the Senai International Airport could be reached within 25 minutes.

Upcoming launch The other residential tower, Citadines Medini apartment-hotels which is slated to be launched soon will comprise of 214 units ranging from 431 – 1,051 sq ft. Purchasers will have the option to lease their units back to Citadines to be managed on their behalf, making it a great option for investors who are looking for long-term and sustainable returns.

For more enquiries

T+607 2989119 T+65 6532 3375

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ANN JOO

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nn Joo Resources Berhad, listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Bhd, is the largest steel group in Malaysia by market capitalization, and primarily engaged in the manufacturing and trading of steel related products.

Ann Joo is committed to providing steel products and services to its customers with uncompromising standards and quality, making it the most trusted and reliable total business solution provider of steel products and services in Malaysia.

The Group’s Manufacturing Division focuses on the production of steel products ranging from hot metal, pig iron, billets, bars to wire rods serving mainly construction and engineering sectors. The integration of its iron and steel-making enables the Group to excel as the leading steel group and the most cost-effective producer of long steel products, not only in Malaysia but also in Southeast Asia.

Petronas Twin Tower bridge, Malaysia

Major impetus

“We are of the opinion that to win a project we should not limit to compete in price but to also provide technical and commercial value-added, especially via value engineering for the benefits and interests of the client,” Kim states.

This has not only been applied to the aforementioned, iconic Petronas Tower 2 & Sky Bridge, but also to TNB Prai’s 1,071MW combined cycle gas power plant project; further demonstrating the Company’s multisector influence. And such an influence can only derive from having one of the most comprehensive and technically astute teams in industry.

Kim continues: “We have very strong engineering and project management team from our headquarters, which always provide full support in term of engineering, financing and management whenever we need assistance. Besides that, it provides a platform to solve and offer advice

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on all technically challenging issues or problems on site.

“Our project execution team comes with high requirements and standards on safety, quality and commitment in delivery, and not only does this give comfort to the client and their consultant teams, but also eventually cultivates trust amongst the parties which paves the way for the smooth implementation and execution of each project.”

Samsung C&T is currently in the midst of constructing five major projects in Malaysia, leveraging its aforementioned differentiators. These include PNB’s KL118 Tower which, when completed, will become the tallest high-rise tower in Malaysia surpassing the Petronas Twin Towers; the Star Residences in Jalan Yap Kwan Seng which, once completed, will become one of the tallest residential towers in Kuala Lumpur; the Sapura HQ at KLCC Lot 91, a 54-storey office tower with a four-storey convention

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These manufacturing activities complement its well-diversified downstream steel business under the umbrella of Trading Division, which deals with a broadly diversified product portfolio comprising of a variety of flat and long steel for supply to a wide array for economic sectors.

T +603 7877 0028

www.annjoo.com.my

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HALFEN-MOMENT GROUP

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he Halfen-Moment Group started its operations in Malaysia, supplying mechanical couplers to construction sites as a cost effective alternative for conventional splicing.

One of the Company’s first iconic projects was the Petronas Twin Towers. Since then, the Group has been expanding rapidly and today the MOMENT® coupler is a well-established brand in the market.

With headquarters in Malaysia and being supported by subsidiaries in Singapore, Philippines and India, we have positioned ourselves as a leading building solution provider for the structure with an established and extensive network throughout Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

www.halfen-moment.com

Burj Khalifa, Dubai

podium; the UMCity Medini Lakeside mixed development project at Medini, Johor; and the Petronas Regasification Terminal at Pengerang, Johor.

“As the Malaysian Government intends to heavily invest in several major infrastructure-related projects in the coming years, we are very keen for involvement opportunities,” Kim enthuses. “Building and energy/power plant projects have always been our major impetus in Malaysia and there is continued interest in this pursuit.”

Project execution experience

To ensure that every project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the high quality and safety standards expected of Samsung C&T, the Company is just as active on an internal improvement note as it is on the external project front.

Vigorously pursuing strategic investment initiatives that enhance business operations and improve efficiencies is an ongoing process

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MNI Twins, Malaysia

and addresses everything from human capital development, to new equipment and technologies, and facility upgrades.

“We have invested in Building Information Modelling (BIM) to increase work productivity, avoiding preventable rework which provides greater time and cost savings in the long run,” Kim offers as an example. “We also invest in the use of high strength concrete (C95) for our construction methods to further enhance the reliability and safety of the concrete structures, whereby it reduces the congestion of reinforcement and provides better constructability; shortening the floorto-floor construction time.”

Enacting such innovations is a dynamic Malaysian-based team comprised primarily of local talents from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Regularly conducting knowledge transfer programmes to then instil the wider Group’s global experience

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HALFEN MOMENT Halfen Moment has supplied couplers and adjacent services to Samsung C&T (KL) Sdn Bhd for a number of years across numerous projects; in each case providing the Company with leading quality products and services. The Selangorbased construction solutions provider has demonstrated its commitment to “delivering excellence� through its responsive and professional team and its multinational experience.

RGT-2 Recognition Award HSE Performance Excellence

RGT-2 group, Malaysia

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into these local artisans, the end result is Samsung being recognised as a preferred employer of choice in the region from a career progression, motivation, company passion, and purposeful operations point of view.

As Kim elaborates though, this ethos doesn’t just stop at the Company’s door, but also extends to and throughout Samsung C&T (KL)’s supply chain.

“Through project execution experience accumulated in its 27-year presence in Malaysia, Samsung C&T (KL)

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Sdn Bhd offers advantages in the hiring of experienced local staff and has also built a strong network of relationships with vendors and suppliers,” he says.

“We have advanced integrated supply chain management systems to support our large-scale operation requirements in the region and source from the finest materials and services providers in the market, be it available locally or abroad.

“Our Head Office procurement team have, over the years, also built extensive global supply chain networks and acquired proficiency to procure the

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highest quality goods and services at competitive prices through corporate partnership arrangements. We also form strategic partnerships with wellestablished and reputable local firms to support us in our endeavours.”

Total solutions provider

Boasting more than two decades of success in Malaysia, and as one of Samsung C&T’s earliest global offices, the Company’s economic influence in the country is substantial and ongoing.

It also serves as an indictment of

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the Company’s strongly passionate commitment to the support of Malaysia’s long-term future though, and to the country’s infrastructural needs.

Naturally, this becomes the Company’s biggest differentiator when trying to secure new landmark contracts and this authority will only broaden in the years to come as it looks to diversify even more extensively through the refinement of its technological capabilities and impetus.

“We are constantly striving to enhance competitiveness while continuing to ensure customer satisfaction, quality and safety control as a top priority,” Kim affirms.

The latter focus on safety is especially prevalent given the Company’s reputation for providing one of the safest work environments in the industrial community. Having recently been bestowed the HSE Performance Excellence Award from Petronas for achieving 10.5 million safe man-hours with 1,054 lost time injury (LTI) free days

Taipei 101, Taiwan

at the Petronas Regasification Terminal 2 project in Johor; the Company’s goal to lead by example in exemplifying simultaneous quality and safety has been largely achieved.

This isn’t to say that Samsung C&T (KL) Sdn Bhd will rest on its laurels moving forward though, across either safety or quality parameters.

Kim concludes: “In the future, Samsung C&T (KL) Sdn Bhd will continue to explore new market prospects, strategically invest to increase business operations’ efficiency, and diversify our portfolio to emerge as a total solutions provider with a comprehensive construction value chain that ranges from development, planning, and project management consultancy (PMC) to engineering, procurement & construction (EPC) management and operations.

“We look forward for opportunities to further increase our presence in the region and aspire to become the preferred and trusted builder.”

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THYSSENKRUPP INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS ASIA PACIFIC

engineering. tomorrow. together. thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions Asia Pacific boasts more than 150 years of experience and is looking to capitalise on this unrivalled influence to apply global solutions to APAC’s industrial domain Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Tom Cullum olstered by one of the biggest names in global industry and possessing a status as one of the world’s leading turnkey providers for the planning, construction and service of industrial plants, systems and machinery; thyssenkrupp’s Industrial Solutions brand continues to set new benchmarks in Asia-Pacific and, indeed, the world.

Working with customers in the chemical, fertilizer, cement, mining, automotive, naval and many more domains across numerous sectors, the Company’s tailored and customisable plants have long catered for specialised solutions; and now with a presence of more than 70 locations around the world, thyssenkrupp has earmarked APAC as a pivotal geography moving forward.

“Previously, we served our customers in Asia-Pacific out of Europe but knowing the importance of being where our customers are, we focused on and have been successful

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in establishing a strong local footprint in the region,” Chief Executive Officer, Jan Lueder explains. “Particularly covering China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Australia, our strong market presence in AsiaPacific reflects on the consistent growth of our business in the region at a rate of 10 percent per annum.”

The notion of ‘being where the customers are’ is both literal in terms of presence points, and figurative in regards to seeing a clients’ requirement through from source, via an unparalleled range of services that cover the complete lifecycle of industrial plants; from asset management to spare parts supply and management, training and consulting, field services, revamps, and relocation.

“With our strong engineering competence and advanced technology portfolio, we are very successful in developing tailored solutions optimised to meet our customers’ specific needs,” Lueder says.

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T Barata Indonesia (Persero) is an Indonesian state-owned Company established in 1971, manufacturing industrial equipment and executing EPC projects.

These activities complement the Company’s other business interests, which include work in the food, energy, water and other heavy construction industries.

Consistent performance, in conjunction with corporate consolidation and a new marketing strategy, has seen the Company’s financial results increase during the third quarter of 2017. In term of new projects, estimated will increase 320% higher than end of 2016.

Jan Lueder, CEO thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions Asia Pacific

“As our customers in Asia-Pacific are often more capital expendituresensitive than in other regions, we continuously work on modularising and standardising our product solutions to further reduce investment costs for our customers and improve project execution reliability.”

Reshaping the world

Despite thyssenkrupp Industrial Solution’s successes in APAC, the Company is keen to enhance its portfolio further and is currently in the development phase to establish further tech competencies on the continent; envisioned to serve the global market from an Asia stronghold.

Similarly, the business’s procurement centres and engineering hubs are continuously expanding and diversifying; equipped with the latest highly specialised equipment that ensure international acumen and localised consideration in equal measure.

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All contributing to thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions’ Network of Excellence, the setup that now exists in Asia and Australasia is befitting of a market of that magnitude, all the while retaining a personable collaborative culture when it comes to individual projects.

Lueder notes: “Even though we are acting in global markets, our customer projects are, in the end, always local, and these local particularities should never be underestimated.

As such, it is vital for us to have a deep understanding of the local environment and a reliable presence close to our customers.

“It should be noted that especially in Asia, mutual trust between business partners is a valuable asset; and establishing trust requires personal interaction and a physical presence in the market we serve. The region has tremendous human and natural resources, which are already reshaping the world. As such, we at thyssenkrupp

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Further business developments in the areas of power generators, sugar plants and port handling equipment provide huge opportunities in association with the Government Infrastructure Development Program. In addition, global & local partnerships, as well as supply chain management support an assignment from the Ministry of Indonesia to promote the Company as a local content coordinator to boost participation of local Company’s in the wider national industry.

Current projects for the Company being finalised include a coal fired steam power plant, with a capacity of 2x25 MW, belonging to the Electricity National Company. This gives the Company high confidence to increase their foothold within the power Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx generator industry.

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Redox flow batteries: energy storage systems for renewables

EnviNOx® reduces NOx emissions to a minimum

Industrial Solutions ensure that we establish a strategic presence in the region that will enable us to serve both customers in Asia-Pacific and beyond.”

By being a global entity with the ability to act local, it also facilitates the Company’s efficiency in monitoring international trends before applying them on a more domestically applicable level. Inevitably, sustainability has been a core theme to this end in recent times, driven through solutions such as EnviNOx (an environmentally-focused technology able to remove nitrous oxide) and the Alberta Taciuk Process technology (which contributes towards the treatment and remediation of contaminated soil).

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Water electrolysis: power to gas

..it is vital for us to have a deep understanding of the local environment and a reliable presence close to our customers

“We also see an increasing demand for energy storage solutions,” Lueder adds. “Energy storage systems play an important role in balancing supply and demand for electricity. Through the years, we have focused on developing innovations such as our Redox Flow Batteries and hydrogen production through water electrolysis.”

World-class engineering solutions

An equally pertinent trend at present is the increasing demand for automation, especially in the mining sector, and thyssenkrupp has proven itself equally adept at providing tailored, intelligent automation solutions to facilitate safe, efficient and reliable plant operations.

And such astuteness at the frontline

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“Even though we are acting in global markets, our customer projects are, in the end, always local, and these local particularities should never be underestimated.”

This year marks the completion of thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions’ biggest fabrication and construction project ever undertaken in Western Australia which has created local jobs and helped in diversifying the State’s economy.

of industry has unsurprisingly resulted in numerous high profile contracts and projects, as Lueder details: “We have had the opportunity to work on many amazing projects of various scales in various parts of the region.

“Earlier this year, we were chosen by the state-owned Brunei Fertiliser Industries for the design, procurement and construction (EPC) of a fully integrated, state-of-the-art fertiliser complex that will comprise an ammonia plant with a daily capacity of 2,200 metric tonnes as well as a urea plant and a urea granulation plant with a capacity of 3,900 tonnes a day. After planned completion in 2021, the plant will use parts of Brunei’s large natural gas reserves as feedstock to produce

high-quality nitrogen fertiliser, safe and in a secured environment, mainly for the export market.”

Following the motto, ‘a big company doing bigger things’, thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions completed in August the large modular plant shipment from Thailand to the US for Oxiteno, a Brazilian chemical multinational manufacturer.

“We also built two cement plants in Indonesia for PT Holcim Indonesia Tbk to support the country’s continuously growing cement market,” Lueder continues. “For both plants, thyssenkrupp supplied state-of-theart equipment covering the complete cement production chain from raw material preparation and clinker

production, to cement manufacturing and fuel preparation. A POLAB laboratory automation system was also installed for quality monitoring and control.” thyssenkrupp has always been focused on elevating its capabilities to deliver innovative solutions to its many customers across sectors. The aforementioned automation system is a prime example to this end, as is the recent inauguration of its Oleochemical Technology Centre in Thailand, which represents an investment of more than €18 million.

Lueder details: “This new hub, located in Map Ta Phut, is envisioned to be thyssenkrupp’s global Oleochemical competence centre for

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R&D, engineering, project execution and technology development services, delivering world-class engineering solutions to both local and global customers.”

Setting new benchmarks

The Map Ta Phut facility is unique and significant in that it provides the full value chain on site, from state-of-theart engineering and EPC execution capabilities to laboratories and pilot plant facilities that guarantee process performance for alkoxylation, esterification and amination technologies.

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Enhancing flexibility, safety, delivery times and cost effectiveness as a consequence, the Thai Centre demonstrates the true essence of thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions’ commitment to continuous improvement and customer-driven innovation.

A backbone of the Group’s supply chain management is its China Procurement Centre which drives synergies for the Group and keeps areas of procurement, logistics and distribution centralised, before bearing the fruits of its labours to the wider world.

ASIA This global network strength is joined by engineering competence, a strong technology portfolio, and a formidable project track-record from more than 150 years in business to formulate its overall competitive advantage.

“We are in a position to provide our customers with the most advanced product and service solutions,” Lueder concludes. “Our customers value our reliability, security in our solutions go back to our roots in engineering, safety is never compromised, we never run away from challenges, and we keep our word.

People focus

“Security in our Company’s solutions go back to our roots in engineering.”

However, the Company also realises that such commitment must extend to social upliftment and personnel enrichment in order to be entirely sustainable and successful.

Lueder notes: “As a global group, thyssenkrupp works on promoting and developing young talent through initiatives that include technical and commercial training as well as apprenticeship programmes. Regionalisation is a key element of our Group strategy and we want to be closer to our customers by strengthening our local organisations.

“We believe that future success requires local contact persons for our customers, localised product solutions, and local project execution knowhow. For all of this, we are continuously looking for qualified personnel throughout Asia-Pacific.

“In the future, thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions will remain a recognised partner for multinational, regional and local companies doing business in and out of Asia as we further strengthen our regional footprint and continue to drive innovation together with our customers; setting new benchmarks in product quality, production efficiency, and sustainability.”

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The Tarkus

TOUCH Balancing function and aesthetics, Tarkus Interiors has evolved over the best part of 20 years to become a contractor and manufacturer of choice in a market that demands differentiation Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Tom Cullum

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ASIA rom humble beginnings, Tarkus Interiors Pte Ltd has evolved to become one of the leading innovators in the Singaporean construction sector, and following an acquisition of the business courtesy of Itoki Group, attentions are broadening extensively towards the rest of the ASEAN region.

Established in 1990 with a staff compliment of just five, handling small projects, Tarkus has subsequently grown from a BCA L1 category company to an L6 level business comprising more than 200 people, with an annual turnover of more than $67 million.

Balancing manufacturing prowess with a touch of finesse and architectural elegance, the Company has consequently become renowned for its finishing and furniture; blessed with a level of intricacy and detail befitting of such highly trained and experienced craftsmen.

“Currently, our business operations are largely based in Singapore focusing on both private and public sector projects,” Project Director, Simon Tia picks up. “Tarkus provides integrated building work for offices, retail establishments and food & beverage outlets.

“We offer comprehensive services designed to allow the company to undertake projects of any size; including new fit-out work, partitioning, ceilings, flooring, carpentry, masonry, MEPF, IT and AV work. We also undertake additions and alterations, and reinstatement work.”

Ultimately, across each and every business strand, Tarkus ensures ontime project delivery and full customer satisfaction through its offering, and such an influence is set to spread even more concertedly in the years to come following Japanese Company, Itoki Group’s recent 2016 acquisition of the business.

“After Itoki’s acquisition of Tarkus, we

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are looking for opportunities to provide our service to more Japanese customers and also expand our business into the region and eventually establish our presence there,” Tia affirms.

Tia explains: “It has enabled the Company to develop and retain a pool of dedicated and experienced staff to meet industry challenges.

“Our team concept is the basis for our hands-on, proactive and Full satisfaction committed approach to produce the The transition to neighbouring markets most important result of every project: should be relatively seamless with this our clients’ satisfaction. Teamwork is additional support, but primarily virtue therefore the key ingredient of every of the Company’s own reputation as Tarkus project.” an operator willing and able to handle And the aforementioned projects large-scale, complex projects. completed have been in conjunction Its experience and track record is with, and completed for, some almost unrivalled as a result, thanks of the biggest names in local and largely to Tarkus’ strong emphasis international industry. on the training and development Nokia, LinkedIn, the Singapore of its staff as a core continuous Academy of Law, Standard Chartered improvement strategy.

Bank, DBS Bank and Toll City have all called upon the specialised Tarkus touch; but Tia alludes to the Citibank headquarters in Singapore as the Company’s most iconic project to date.

“Located in Asia Square, it comprises nine office floors with a total floor area of 300,000 square feet,” he describes.

“We are more than an interior “It was completed in an extremely contractor and manufacturer... tight timeframe, and with high expectations in terms of quality. rather a partner who shares “The project was successfully and appreciates their artistic handed over on time though and to expressions and designs.” the full satisfaction of our client and consultants.”

An interest in perfection

DLE M&E PTE LTD

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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

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LSK ENGINEERING

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SK Engineering is constantly seeking to excel its areas of expertise in order to keep pace with the rapid changing and dynamic business environment.

The Company’s leadership aims to deliver uncompromising quality to its services to ensure client satisfaction through continuous improvement, whilst also ensuring a safe work place is maintained through effective implementation of risk management at ALL levels.

The Company also ensures keen participation in the promotion of ‘a greener environment for all’.

T +65 6553 3955 E general@lsk.com.sg Overseas projects are particularly popular

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Clients Satisfaction with Uncompromising Quality!

Air-Conditioning, Refrigeration & Ventilation Works | Electrical Engineering & Contracting Services Fire Protection System | Facilities Management | General Builder Works | Security System

LSK ENGINEERING (S) PTE LTD general@lsk.com.sg www.lsk.com.sg

No 159 Sin Ming Road 04-08 Amtech Building Singapore 575625 Tel: (65) 6553 3955 Fax: (65) 6553 3966 RCB No: 199000237G

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Track record, experience and resources

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“The Company never stops turning to advanced technologies to improve With a large portion of the sector’s our service,” Tia notes to this end. economic activity now heading Asia’s “Additionally, since December, 2016, the Company’s production facility has way, there has never been a better doubled in size - to our current 32,000 time for Tarkus Interiors to expand its square feet - in order to facilitate our reach into the ASEAN region, and the Company can now expect a plethora own growth.”

Two large-scale projects in Malaysia of new opportunities to capitalise on in have already been added to the Tarkus the coming years.

All the while though, an equally signif- portfolio as a justification of such efforts and as a sign of things to come. icant emphasis is being placed on honing internal processes andn procedures And to ensure that this opportunity is leveraged fully, Tia will once again turn in order to set the perfect platform to to the backbone of the business: its strike now that the iron is hot. people.

“They truly are the backbone of any successful company and we opt for a hands-on approach to the hiring process here, to ensure we have the best,” he emphasises. “We find that “We understand that you our current, longstanding employees are a better fit for future leadership have high expectations positions as they already have a deep and our dedicated team understanding of our culture, products of professionals can help and services. you realise confidence in a “Our overall approach to operational efficiencies is about knowing our finished space that embodies operation, continual training, distinction, function, and the improving customer service, focusing true value that your project on customer needs, and providing the best after-sales service.” requires.”

Making the difference

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“Our overall approach to operational efficiencies is about knowing our operation, continual training, improving customer service, focusing on customer needs, and providing the best after-sales service.”

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Packaging all of the above at a competitive market price will ensure that Tarkus is at the forefront of the impending industry boom in the region; as clients’ expansion plans continue to tie-in perfectly with those of Tarkus itself.

Tia concludes: “In the future, with our track record, experience and resources, we will continue to expand our local customer base and to constantly improve our service. With the business boom that is occurring in our region and the desire to expand our business, the Company is planning to target overseas markets and larger commercial customers.

“This business plan will lay out our goals and tasks to make the transition successful, and to create enough market share to succeed in this highly competitive market.”

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s a direct result of its bold ideas and action over the years, B+H Architects has built a legacy to stand above all other companies in the industry.

With a reputation for collaborative work, going back to the firm’s beginnings executing design for ‘starchitects’ - celebrity architects - in its early days, the Company was able to establish a firm footing

while still relatively new to the market and has evolved into one of the most prominent companies in the business.

“Today we are recognised both for our role as design architects, as well as our ability to carefully execute fully-realised concepts,” begins Karen Cvornyek, President and Regional Managing Principal, Asia of B+H Architects. “When it comes to continuously creating inspiring designs, we fully appreciate the importance of collaborative thinking and value teamwork with a continuous dialogue

from our clients to our contractors along the way.”

As a multi-sector firm working in studios around the world, B+H has a recognisable advantage in its highly evolved and competitive global business environment. Thanks to its work in multiple sectors, the Company can bring insights gathered from their global practice to inform the new dynamic and inclusive cities we are beginning to see.

“We respond to the needs of our clients with a holistic approach, fusing

BOLD Thinking B+H Architects has taken its innovative approach to architectural development and used it to establish a new way of thinking Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Tom Cullum

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local acumen with a global attitude that allows us to uncover innovative and inspiring designs,” explains Cvornyek on the Company’s working philosophy in every locality. “That results in inevitable challenges of operating a global design firm with offices in regions that differ greatly in terms of cultural, social, and economic nuances. Cvornyek however believes in the strength

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of talent diversity to overcome delivery challenges.

“We cultivate diversity to hire, train, and retain the type of people that will help us live our brand and contribute to our goals to transform spaces, communities, and economies through a new model of consulting.”

ASIA Legacy of creative solutions around the globe

Now with more than 60 years of experience in global markets, B+H delivers creative solutions across a broad spectrum of services, which include architecture, interior design, master planning, landscape architecture and Advance Strategy services.

“We work from studios in Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Dubai, Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and

Microsoft Zizhu Campus, Shanghai

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INTERFACE

Karen Cvornyek guiding the Asia design team

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he design of modern interiors plays an increasingly growing responsibility to provide for the needs of interior spaces, as they become more complex with work/life integration.

As specialists in modular flooring, Interface and Contrac Image enable what they call ‘positive spaces’ to pave the way to better design; Interface’s comprehensive selection of modular carpet and luxury vinyl tile, provide a foundation for such spaces; giving people the flexibility to use it as they see fit. In doing so, people reach their potential, cascading greater good to others and our planet.

www.interface.com Seattle, with more than 350 team members that are committed to responding to the needs of our clients,” continues Cvornyek. “Each employee is empowered to think strategically, design boldly, and leverage advanced technology to deliver the best solutions for our clients. Our multigenerational team buzzes with creative human energy.”

Winning a design competition for the Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport marks B+H’s first foray into Asia. After opening doors in Shanghai in 1992, B+H established itself as one of the first foreign architectural firms in China.

The following 25 years saw B+H’s presence in China continue to grow and in turn fuelled its expansion into Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City and Hong Kong.

Covrnyek adds: “A quarter of a century’s experience in Asia has fully equipped us with perhaps one of the most comprehensive understandings of local culture, aesthetics and

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construction methods, enabling us to maintain the momentum that allows our Company to build upon our success.”

However, B+H is not resting on its laurels with Cvronyek maintaining: “To continue progression as a firm, both within our organisation and in collaboration with our clients, we continue to seek ways to disrupt ourselves and challenge our assumptions to inspire and inform the ways in which we approach designing for the future,”

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Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport

Multi-sector work: iconic developments

B+H’s success over the years has embraced a wide range of sectors, comprising work in commercial, corporate, retail, healthcare, hospitality, institutional and educational, residential, industrial, sports and recreation, mixed-use, and transportation.

When B+H began work in China more than 25 years ago, it encountered a nation that was poised for grand developments.

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In a positive space, everything connects.

Bring nature indoors to create dynamic work environments that support employee wellbeing.

The best spaces have the power to influence and move people.

Learn more at interface.com

Cvornyek affirms: “Leveraging B+H’s innovative spirit at a time of unprecedented economic growth, we have been privileged to participate in China’s transformation into a leading global economy. We have been working on a multitude of groundbreaking developments that have epitomised the aspirations of different generations over the decades.”

The Shanghai Hong Kong New World Tower was perhaps one of the earliest iconic developments in the history of China’s biggest city and global financial hub; located along an upscale commercial street, Huaihai Road, the building overlooks the central People’s Square and witnesses the rapid transformation of Shanghai’s growth.

“The tower is 58 storeys high and holds a prominent position in the city’s urban skyline, and at the time was one of the first buildings in the region to be built with North American design principles,” Cvornyek describes. “The

The Shanghai Hong Kong New World Tower

building was especially unique in its design - bringing parking into the podium of the building - through its contemporary, yet classic aesthetic that is standing the test of time.”

Fast forward to recent years, at the northernmost region surrounding China’s border with Mongolia lays another ambitious yet iconic development the Company has designed - the New Ordos Airport at Inner Mongolia.

Cvornyek explains: “Our design intent aims to convey a sense of the local culture and encompassing landscape, appealing to a traveler’s sense of wonder and adventure.”

Inspired by a Mongolian yurt, the airport’s most compelling interior feature is a sun-filled check-in hall that is covered by a grand dome. This space is used to highlight art reflecting the culture of Inner Mongolia with murals depicting the history of the area. Responding to its environment, the building’s unassuming nature

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DoubleTree by Hilton, Ha Long Bay Hotel & Condotel, Vietnam

harmonises with its surroundings while sinuous rooflines mirror the natural landscape.

“The continuous form of the building structure can be seen from miles away on the low-density terrain of the city; combining well-considered transportation planning elements with sustainable design principles, the airport appears as a prominent and culturally iconic development but remains surprisingly unobtrusive to the surrounding,” Cvornyek continues. “Sophistication in design

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is unmistakably more welcomed by today’s generation – Iconic does not always equate to being pretentious.”

Elsewhere outside China, the Company has seen a remarkable undertaking of hospitality projects in Vietnam, Cambodia, Australia and the Maldives. One high-profile project in progress is the DoubleTree by Hilton Ha Long Bay Hotel & Condotel located in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam. The impressive two-tower development, nestled on an existing hill fronting the renowned UNESCO heritage site

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Ha Long Bay, comprises hotel and residential suites complete with retail space, a casino, conference amenities, and complementary landscape design.

Thoughtful incorporation of terracing and banding throughout the landscape design interprets the local contours of the terra and is reminiscent of local rice paddy fields.

Cvornyek describes: “With the hotel tucked into the natural landform, our architecture, planning and landscape teams envision it as a hospitality icon with a strong sense of place. The adjacent serviced apartment tower rises 100m perpendicular to the bay, and its memorable profile curves along the ocean boulevard, inspired by the sail shape of the traditional Vietnamese junks. The entire development reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding land and foothills in the pristine Ha Long Bay.” In another instance, The Shells Resort & Spa Phu Quoc, located on the largest of the Vietnamese islands, appears highly memorable amongst guests for its use of natural materials, such as wood, bamboo, and stone, for the structure and finishes of the

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chalets and bungalows. With an integrated programme of 100 chalets on terraces clustered around pools and gardens, and 40 overwater bungalows made accessible by platform built out of the shore rocks and beach, it received the widely acclaimed “Loved

by Guest Award” by Hotel.com in 2016.

Patient-centric, sustainable approach to collaborative healthcare design

Perhaps one of the Company’s most impressive feats is its work on the Singapore Changi General Hospital Integrated Building & Medical Centre within the Simei Road healthcare precinct. The collaboration between B+H and RDC on this project has been ongoing since Phase I - the Integrated Building at gross floor area of 39,800 square metres - built in 2014, and Phase II – the Medical Centre Building at gross floor area of 46,000 square

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metres - set for completion in 2018.

“Alongside its clear connections to the overall campus, the Integrated Building was designed to work in harmony with the surrounding urban landscape while providing flexibility to accommodate future developments,” adds Covrnyek. “We were able to completely re-imagine the campus as a community hub for wellness and healing through an environment that encourages patients’ smooth transition back to their home and community.”

The Integrated Building’s design perfectly demonstrates a patientcentric, flexible and sustainable approach, achieved through close collaboration with the client and community. A Rehabilitation Centre, Geriatric Centre and Integrated Services Hub are amongst a host of outpatient programs, services and facilities within the building, as well

ASIA as a tower for inpatient wards with access to daylight and healing gardens, while overlooking the surrounding green buffer. Interchangeable spaces support patients with different needs at different stages of care, building adaptability into systems to allow for future expansion and changes.

“We needed to accommodate the mandate that 80 percent of wards would be naturally ventilated, strategically orienting the building to capture the prevailing winds which played a large role in the final design,” Covrnyek explains. “After completion in 2014, the Integrated Building has been certified Green Mark Platinum, Universal Design Mark Gold, Building Information Modelling (BIM) Gold, and more recently, the Construction Excellence Award 2017 (Institutional Buildings Category) - all awarded by the Building & Construction Authority, Singapore.”

Changi General Hospital - Integrated Building, Singapore

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The new nine-storey Medical Centre, currently under construction, will feature more than 130 consultation rooms and other areas including endocrinology and gastroenterology, all of which are dedicated to meeting complex specialist outpatient needs.

Targeting Singapore BCA Green Mark Platinum design standards, it is on schedule to complete by end of 2018.

Covrnyek continues: “The latest plans for this facility echo a broader movement by the local healthcare establishments, aiming to achieve one-stop centres with a higher level of patient care.”

The Company is also eager to continue its work in transformative design through projects in the healthcare industry, responding to the needs of an ever-changing healthcare system and the impact of an ageing population. The thoughtfully designed Gleneagles Medini Hospital in Malaysia perfectly represents the emergence of new key principles in healthcare design.

“We believe that access to nature can significantly contribute to the wellbeing of patients, while also promoting healing,” explains Cvornyek. “Our teams worked collaboratively with the hospital, ensuring that our approach would include natural light, artful public spaces, natural and tactile materials throughout, and windows in patient rooms with views that connect them to the outdoors while also allowing privacy.”

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Gleneagles Medini Hospital, Malaysia

Culture of collaborative ideation: best idea wins

Currently on the boards, B+H is undertaking currently is collaborating on the prominent TMX Centre in Toronto, Ontario Canada; tasked with the consolidation of the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) and the TMX Group.

“Our design team has worked very closely with the client to create this new office space, advancing the culture of transparency, collaboration and innovation that the organisation

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strives to achieve,” states Cvornyek.

“The existing workplace has remained relatively unchanged for more than a decade; therefore our client was ready to consider a reimagining of the workplace to encourage a fresh perspective.”

Through the close collaboration and discussion between the design and TMX teams, B+H has been able to define workplace typologies to suit both needs and expectations. This has entailed robust programming, planning and a preliminary design effort which

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has created a new workplace vision that has been embraced at the executive level.

On the other side of the world, the Company is currently working on the Shanghai International Cruise Terminal Linjiang Business Centre. This site is made up of a 243,800 square metre land area which is located at Wu Song Kou - the estuary of the Huangpu River - and will be a major mixed-use development for use of commercial, financial and commercial sectors.

“In a slightly different project, we are part of a team working on the Canadian International School expansion in Cambodia,” adds Cvornyek. “Designed specifically for 1,200 students, the school is an expansion of the existing primary school building and includes shared facilities, including a library, auditorium and sports complex.”

Shanghai International Cruise Terminal, Linjiang Business Centre

ASIA Empowered teams to inspire the future

Over the course of its many years of experience in the industry and now more than ever, B+H believes that inspired design will always come from inspired people.

“Our talent pool is vast, with a diverse group of multi-generational, multi-cultural experts that bridge various disciplines while offering unique points of view,” continues Cvornyek. “We have created a workplace culture that encourages open dialogue, creativity and collaboration.

“It has always been our aim for every voice to be heard and for all ideas to be celebrated, and therefore we ensure our Company is providing the opportunities for growth and enhancement in order to cultivate this talent.”

In providing its workforce with the technology, training, mentoring and support needed, the Company is able to aid them in achieving their goals. In recent times there has been a noticeable shift in B+H’s thinking and approach to addressing the challenges its clients face, recognising that in the present time of rapid change, the past is no longer predictive of the future.

“As part of our assessment of these changes, we have taken the time to clearly establish some goals for the Company over the next three- five years,” concludes Cvornyek. “We aim to continue to transform spaces, communities and economies through an entirely new model of consulting, which we will achieve through combining strategic thinking, bold design and advanced technology.

“We hope to ensure that our talent pool is empowered and able to apply design thinking to complex challenges, helping our clients identify the best opportunities and confidently invest in flexible solutions in times of rapid change.”

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CHICKEN

Masters KFC is bringing much more than 11 secret herbs and spices to Myanmar, as it looks to ingrain itself into the country’s food & beverage sector, and wider communities, as the country’s best loved brand Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Joshua Mann s the first global quick service restaurant (QSR) brand to enter Myanmar, KFC has quickly established itself as one of the leading operators in the country.

Since opening its inaugural flagship store in June, 2015, the subsequent two years has brought about unprecedented expansion, even for a business with the reputation and worldwide appeal that KFC has.

With a total of 17 outlets, the Company caters for a ravenous clientele from Yangon to Mandalay and Taunggyi and has consequently been labelled ‘Rookie of the Year’ by Yum! “This was for our successful market entry and expansion strategy,” Managing Director (MD), JR Ching says, “and we will have at least 20 stores in operation by the end of 2017, expanding to at least 22 by March, 2018”.

He continues: “We undertake a comprehensive analysis for each new store, which also includes studying the trade zone, evaluating competitive

dynamics, considering supply chain challenges and conducting design and construction feasibility. All of this data fuels into a site development package which we discuss with Yum! to ensure that every new store fits into our long-term site selection and expansion strategy.”

As is the KFC way, while the brand continues to expand, the products retain consistency across their quality and appeal. The way they’re bundled and offered however, have been modified and improved to bring better value to customers.

Mr Ching explains: “We have introduced a number of value bundles such as our Weekly Wow Offers, Smart Choices Combos and, very recently, Crispy Tenders; all as part of our philosophy to provide superb value for money and accessibility to all the people of Myanmar.

“We will continue to improve our product range in the future with innovations and promotions that coincide with Myanmar festivities and celebrations as well as local flavours that match our customers’ taste profile.”

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“All of our staff are certified in their respective roles, and especially our well-trained cooks are certified as “Chicken Masters” in preparing KFC’s unique original recipe chicken with 11 secret herbs and spices.”

Investing in human resources is a leading priority and a growing differentiator in Myanmar, as is the Company’s second pillar; the in-store experience.

Adapting global best practices in each case, every one of the 17 stores to have been opened so far comprise state-of-the-art technologies and standardised processes; complemented by world-class outlet designs in order to create a culturally fitting, atmospheric experience for all customers.

The third pillar then revolves around product innovations, as Mr Ching continues: “While KFC carries its own signature products that are core to the global brand - Original Recipe, Hot & Crispy and Zinger - we also recognise that we need to appeal to the local Chicken Masters flavour palate. With that in mind, we When analysing integration into a new are always working on innovative new market, it might be easy to presume flavours that take inspiration from that the migration for a Company like Myanmar cuisine, as well as regional KFC would be relatively seamless, but favourites from Thailand, China and entry into a new country - with new India, to engage and excite consumers. regulations, consumer preferences “These product innovations will be and market competition - is always a introduced into the market continuously challenge. as new limited time offers that can To counter the challenge, KFC be enjoyed alongside our signature Myanmar has focused on four key products. For instance, we have pillars in order to ensure sustainable introduced Chilli Lime and Red Hot success and continuous improvement. chicken offerings over the past two The first of which is “people and years which have been huge hits with operations” as Mr Ching affirms: “We our customers and we have plans for train all of our people in line with KFC’s new flavours in the upcoming year.” global standards to achieve best-inAll of the above culminate in the class operations that are consistent fourth and perhaps most important with KFC stores in any other part of the pillar: brand love. By interacting in world. This starts at the very beginning a plethora of online, social media, from recruitment and hiring and then community, CSR and promotional continues to the initial one month activities, KFC’s reach in Myanmar goes team member training process and the beyond its stores and directly targets career advancement programme for its loyal fans and consumers all over supervisors and managers.

Myanmar.

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FALCON GROUP

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t Falcon Group, the core of our businesses is in transforming space – hotels, offices, residences, restaurants and hospitals – into a thoughtfully-designed and carefully-constructed environment.

We understand that a well-designed interior has the power to change the way we live, work, dine and play. We believe when we transform a space, we are designing life itself.

With this belief and our combined expertise, we are honoured to partner with KFC Myanmar as the main ID contractor to pioneer a difference and forge a new quick service restaurant (QSR) culture in Myanmar.

The different zones in every KFC Myanmar restaurant are like an embodiment of Falcon’s belief and the multi-faceted dimensions of life; each KFC restaurant is not merely a place to dine, but a carefully-crafted space where people from all walks of life can gather, as ideas flow and stories unfold.

KFC Myanmar’s rapid expansion and multiple awards are testaments of their excellence and success, and Falcon is proud to have contributed to their milestones attained in the short span of two years.

With headquarters in Singapore and factories in Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Myanmar, the Company has a strong regional presence and extensive interior fit-out experiences in the hospitality and commercial sectors. The Company’s Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx partnership with KFC Myanmar has been phenomenal, and we hope our amazing synergy would propel us both to greater heights not only in Myanmar, but in the whole of Southeast Asia, as we continue to soar like a falcon.

Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx

Falcon is a premier interior fit-out specialist and a high-end contract furniture manufacturer for hotels, offices, serviced apartments, restaurants and hospitals. Headquartered in Singapore with offices and factories in Vietnam, Myanmar and Sri Lanka, Falcon Group is founded on the principles of innovation, integrity and diligence. We are committed to realising our clients’ visions for interior spaces as we believe that a well-constructed interior has the power to change the lives it fosters within.

Falcon Incorporation Pte Ltd Block 5012 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5, #02-07 Techplace II, Singapore 569876 Tel: +65 6853 1626 Fax: +65 6556 1196 Email: info@falconincorporation.com

www.falconincorporation.com

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Innovative and seamless

“While KFC carries its own signature products that are core to the global brand - Original Recipe, Hot & Crispy and Zinger - we also recognise that we need to appeal to the local flavour palate.”

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Ultimately, KFC aims to be the “best loved” food & beverage brand in Myanmar; a vision that Mr Ching believes will transpire by virtue of ongoing investments across brand enrichment and online marketing.

“It has been frequently mentioned that, with 80 percent smartphone penetration, Myanmar is trying to digitally leapfrog its development in comparison to other ASEAN countries; whether through mobile money/ banking or transportation with the likes of Grab and Uber having already entered the market,” he details. “To this end, KFC Myanmar is focused on developing a digital roadmap which we feel will give us a competitive advantage to keep ahead of industry developments.

“For us, digital does not mean IT, but rather is a holistic shift in our business model encompassing marketing, operations, development and supply chain to ensure that our brand stays relevant to the Myanmar consumer.”

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FABRISTEEL is a Singapore based company with an International reach, we are active within the greater Commercial Food Service sectors.

At Fabristeel, our past, present and future is shaped by OUR people. Their Commitment, their Experience, their Innovation and their Desire to Improve makes the company what it is today.

Fabristeel today in this competitive & challenging world is a name where we strive to excel through innovation, efficiency in Project Management, where we challenge the norm & above all work hard to justify WHY we are the correct choice: — To deliver Professional Commercial Kitchen solutions With more than 30 years of experience, Fabristeel has delivered some of the largest & most complex facilities in Asia & beyond.

We understand OUR Industry & the complexities within to help You achieve e a quality & efficient Food Service Facility.

As such, the Company has recently partnered with Wave Money, a mobile money platform serving as a general cash agent, and for payroll services.

Additionally, KFC Myanmar’s kitchen equipment meets Yum! specifications and are planning to be enhanced from an efficiency perspective in the coming months courtesy of energy saving systems that have already been trialled in Malaysia.

“In the very near future, we will also be introducing new digital assets and Wi-Fi infrastructure in all of our stores that will cut across various functions to provide a more innovative and seamless customer experience at KFC Myanmar,” Mr Ching adds.

The overriding principle encapsulating all of the Company’s ongoing investments is to localise as much as possible, bridging the gap between provider and consumer. Of course, this is even more pertinent across its supply chain management strategy where KFC is in the process of

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overcoming numerous challenges to achieve the localisation it strives for.

Mr Ching explains: “The local supply chain is still very much in a nascent stage and numerous challenges exist; from logistics and transportation, to traceability and documentation, to food safety and quality assurance.

“KFC Myanmar follows a stringent policy with regards to supplier management and all suppliers have to be YUM! audited and approved in compliance with global food safety standards. We are constantly working with new local suppliers to improve and upgrade their operations so that they understand and meet these requirements. This is an ongoing iterative process which we view as an

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Yum! Yum! Brands, Inc., based in Louisville, Kentucky, has more than 44,000 restaurants in more than 135 countries. They are the principal brand owners of KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell; each a global leader in the chicken, pizza and Mexican style food categories

investment in the long-term growth of this country’s overall supply chain.”

Heritage and heart

Bringing to mind notions of corporate social responsibility, KFC’s mission to uplift the local supplier network is compounded by an equally honed focus on personnel and skill enhancement in the country too.

Again following Yum! guidelines on training and development, the Company believes that career advancement is critical to staff retention, so the Company invites each and every employee to embark on their own journeys as they join KFC in its national quest.

“Recognition is also an important

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“...we send our top team members to Yum!’s regional Champs Challenge in Singapore to compete against other KFC franchisees across Asia in operational excellence.”

“We now aim to be the leading industry player in Myanmar.

This is not just in terms of footprint or store builds, but also in terms of brand preference and brand love...”

“...KFC fried chicken is prepared in-store, fresh, and daily. Our certified cooks make great tasting chicken with a lot of hard work and passion passed down from Colonel Sanders with his secret recipe of 11 herbs and spices.”

part of Yum!’s corporate culture and, as such, we reward outstanding performers in every facet of our operations. For instance, we send our top team members to Yum!’s regional Champs Challenge in Singapore to compete against other KFC franchisees across Asia in operational excellence,” Mr Ching notes. “All store level staff are locally hired from the surrounding communities and, substantially, all of our head office staff are local or repatriate Myanmar.”

This not only alludes to longevity and a commitment to national development, but emphasises KFC’s encompassing reputation as a “brand with a big heart”.

National development can similarly be found among numerous CSR and

charity based initiatives; examples include orphanage collaborations and a recent celebration of its Taunggyi store opening alongside 150 children.

In 2018, the Company’s ‘Add Hope’ campaign will also take off in conjunction with neighbouring markets whereby donations will be collected from customers on behalf of World Hunger Relief; the proceeds are then being distributed to charitable organisations.

And the dedication to social upliftment and food safety doesn’t stop there. In fact, KFC’s overarching passion for quality both in and out of its stores is what Mr Ching attributes as the Company’s biggest differentiator as it now looks towards a positive

future in Myanmar.

The MD concludes: “A lot of customers do not know this, but all KFC fried chicken is prepared in-store, fresh, and daily. Our certified cooks make great tasting chicken with a lot of hard work and passion passed down from Colonel Sanders with his secret recipe of 11 herbs and spices. Our brand is full of heritage and heart and this differentiates us from other food & beverage brands within Myanmar.

“We now aim to be the leading industry player in Myanmar. This is not just in terms of footprint or store builds, but also in terms of brand preference and brand love coupled with great store experiences and a full digital platform.”

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Alain Trad, Chief Executive Officer

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Photography: Olmo Reverter

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REMOVING

THE RISK uperior quality ingredients and products have formed the foundation of Wine Connection, constantly exploring new ranges for both wine and food business lines.

Alain Trad, Chief Executive Officer at Wine Connection explains: “In order to achieve the quality of the successful products we have created, we have a stringent research & development department that ensures our new investments will be leading menu innovation in the market.”

Wine Connection is recognisable for its unique integration chain of wine retail and restaurant businesses, all of which have strengthened its leading position since inception in 1998 by the founder, Michael Trocherie. The Company has grown at a steady and fruitful pace, with an ever-increasing number of wine retail shops and its diversified full-service restaurant business.

The aforementioned innovative thinking has led Wine Connection to become owner and operator of the largest chain of wine retail shops, as well as full-service wine-themed restaurants in Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia.

“Our business has been aided by the acquisition of the majority stake of

Since its inception, Wine Connection has been safeguarding Southeast Asia’s taste buds by unveiling the perfect selection of wines and wine-themed restaurants across the region Writer: Phoebe Calver Project Manager: Joshua Mann

Wine Connection in 2014 - by private equity firm, Abraaj - where both parties involved had a vision to develop the brand regionally,” affirms Alain Trad. “In the present day we are proud to be the exclusive importers of more than 300 wine labels from all over the world, including European craft beers, glassware, accessories and selected delicatessen products.”

“We have perfected our brand promise to make wine democratic and affordable, while providing great value for money,” continues Alain Trad.

“Our core philosophy is to provide high-quality products that are always selected with the end-consumer in mind. Getting both the pricing and communications right have proved to be crucial elements.”

This mindset has enabled Wine Connection to spread its wings to the 78 locations it enjoys currently, across three countries.

Brand promise

At Wine Connection, one of the fundamental aims of the Company has always been to establish itself as the leading chain of wine shops and winethemed restaurants located in South East of Asia.

A unique and integrated wine and restaurant business

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“When it comes to identifying potential new markets, we have honed our ability to seek out a blend of characteristics that include the country’s GDP and spending capacity, wine consumption behaviours, trends, wine importation barriers, eating habits, tourism and of course a strong local partner with operational background and financial capabilities,” Alain Trad says. “At present we are investigating expansion into an exciting variety of nations within Asia, and at present they are looking likely to move forward as joint-venture agreements and master franchise licensing.”

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At present we are investigating expansion into an exciting variety of nations within Asia...

There are a huge number of factors that need monitoring when it comes to the effects on the food & beverage industry and these range from consumer trends right across to competitor habits.

“Due to the fact that we do import a range of products directly - without a middle man - we need to keep track of the international situations that could influence our business through disruptions to these imports,” Alain Trad describes. “We have a detailed system in place for analysis of online and offline purchasing trends, as well as following local laws and regulations on alcohol.”

Trivento T

rivento has created an exclusive portfolio of brand-name wines that preserve the character of the Mendoza terroir. The prestige of the premium ranges is reflected in the international recognition received over the years, and is a product of continual investment in technology, infrastructure and expertise. Trivento has strengthened its status in more than 100 markets around the globe, earning its place as one of the top bottled wine exporters in the country. Today, Trivento is the most diversely distributed Argentinian wine brand.

Marketing Director Mónica Caamaño affirms: “Our efforts are aimed at strengthening the premium and super-premium market segments, projecting growth in the value of sales around the globe.”

From the heart of Mendoza Home to Trivento wines, Mendoza possesses a long tradition of winegrowing and serves as a springboard to many internationally acclaimed artists. The winery has established a meeting point that promotes the social aspects of this heritage.

Mendoza is the epicentre of winemaking in Argentina, with more than 70 percent of the nation’s vineyards found within the provincial borders. The locations of TRIVENTO’s 1.519 hectares were selected with the utmost care. These lands possess a wide range of topographies and microclimates, and are distributed into three distinct micro-regions: Uco Valley: 592 hectares Luján-Maipú Oasis: 564 hectares Eastern Oasis: 363 hectares

Winemaking facilities feature equipment with the latest technology for winemaking production. An additional special room houses the 4,500 French and American oak barrels used in ageing premium wines.

Experience and investment combine in the constant search for new techniques and technologies, leading to wines of exceptional quality. A dedicated team of winemakers and technicians work hard to optimise the expressiveness and quality of each varietal.

Our Identity: Trivento means three winds: The Polar, Zonda and Sudestada winds blow across the sunny and arid land of Mendoza.

Icy and dry, the Polar wind blows in from the South, announcing the onset of winter. The first cold fronts indicate the time for pruning has begun. Toward the end of winter, soil is kept humid and grass is cut short to trap cold air at ground level.

The Zonda wind descends from the Andes year-round, but its frequency peaks in spring.

Its gusts of hot and dry air improve budding on the vine. During episodes of the Zonda wind, shoots are affixed to the trellis wires and watering increases to ward off dehydration.

The Sudestada wind is the fresh breeze of summer that sometimes brings storms.

Cloudiness allows clusters to rest from the broiling sun. This ensures equilibrium in the grapes’ metabolism and leads to uniform ripening.

Each agitating seasonal wind pierces the intimate calm of Mendoza, leaving their mark in our wines.

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Positive company culture

In order for any of these strategies to work, the right people are needed to carry the projects forward and are viewed as the pillars holding the Company up.

“We are willing to teach the required skill-sets to those that demonstrate the willingness to learn, however they must come with the right attitude to begin with,” explains Alain Trad. “Striving to be among the top employers through a positive company culture is vital to our growth, as well as providing competitive salary structures, attainable career paths and an overall good reputation within the community.”

“At Wine Connection we have been successful because we are able to provide our customers with quality wine and European-style food, at an incredibly reasonable price.”

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Providing its teams with extensive knowledge and an understanding that each individual may have learning preferences, are elements supported and implemented across several training platforms, thus ensuring employee success.

“Our training methods include traditional classroom settings with lecturers, on-the-job training with inhouse trainers and a modern e-learning system,” adds Alain Trad. “This blend of different methods allows us to provide fair training to all of our employees, giving them the chance to achieve”.

“Then of course there is the issue of retention of our staff, which we take very seriously through offering achievable incentive schemes and rewards for those that positively impact our business.”

Although the Company does place importance on having a local team, it is aware that there are some aspects

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BR GROUP

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R Group is one of the world’s largest integrated duck producers and marketers with production centers in Thailand and the Netherlands.

The Company offers a wide variety of foods and agricultural products including; duck feed, duck eggs, duckling, live duck, duck feather, duck meat and duck meat based & prepared food products.

The Company supplies both fresh and cooked duck products to many leading restaurant chains around the world including Wine Connection. So, if you are interested, you can try one of our duck menu “the duck confit” right here.

T + 66 2 317 1771

www.br-brgroup.com

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- such as country culture, traditions, languages and communications - that are not necessarily trainable.

“These are all essential factors to the success of Wine Connection, and therefore we ensure that we can source this information in order not to lose sight of our customers’ needs,” Alain Trad affirms.

Strategic relationships

As a partner of the Abraaj Group, Wine Connection has always held a strong conviction that the relationship between business and society should be mutually beneficial. The partnership has worked together to implement environmental policies to increase the value of resource use, while reducing costs and generating goodwill among the communities and markets in which the Company operates.

Alain Trad states: “The Abraaj Sustainability Index (ASI) provides a

Photography: Olmo Reverter

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bespoke reporting and accountability index that is designed to capture the broad development impact of every partner company.”

“At Wine Connection we have been successful because we are able to provide our customers with quality wine and European-style food, at an incredibly reasonable price,” concludes Alain Trad. “We have a dedicated team of experts that taste an impressive number of wines during the year, in order to select the best value gems, award-winning classics and exciting new tastes.

“Our business model has been incredibly successful within the countries that we operate and as is with all the growing markets and opportunities within the region, we believe that we are well prepared to take on the challenge of expanding into those markets in the years to come.”

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Fully-Integrated Communications Cellcard is becoming quite the force to be reckoned with in Cambodia, dominating the market and driving forward advancements in technology in the country Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Donovan Smith

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ellcard is widely recognised for its credibility and reliability in the local market and as the only Cambodianowned operator, has taken on the duty to both protect and invest in the country’s future.

The entirety of its profits stay in the country and are reinvested back into the company for systems development, talent and infrastructure, with the most recent example being the 4G+ network build.

“We are also proud to be known

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for our quality, with the best network, offers and service that ensures our premium customers stay with us for the long-term,” explains Ian Watson, Chief Executive Officer at Cellcard. “Our business has been

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enhancing the way local customers connect since 1997 and we aim to continuously launch new platforms for regular improvements, providing both convenience and better value for money.”

Alongside providing excellent services to its customers, Cellcard has received recognition as one of Asia’s best employer brands from the Employer Branding Institute, World HRD Congress and Stars of the Industry Group, all of which are endorsed by the Asian Confederation of Businesses.

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CAMTOWER LINK COMMUNICATION

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t CTL (Camtower Link Communication) we build infrastructure that enables people to connect with each other, enriching the communities and Cambodia. Reaching out and sharing is the beginning of a relationship, opening up infinite possibilities to progress further.

We are proud of our groundbreaking project in Angkor Wat (a UNESCO World Heritage Centre), as it highlights our commitment to contribute in Cambodia’s growth and development.

As a truly independent infra-sharing company, our intention is to provide equal sharing opportunities for our customer and partner such as CELLCARD. It is a relationship built on trust and confidence.

T +855 23885787 E contactus@camtowerlink.com

www.camtowerlink.com As a company of many firsts, Cellcard launched Cambodia’s first and largest rewards programme named Cellcard Rewards, while also introducing Small Cell Solutions and international standard cinema through its partnerships.

The Company’s many projects have led to refreshing its brand in 2015, creating a more modern identity to fit with the fast-paced industry it is operating in.

Enabling Cambodian talent

In support of its ever-increasing local services, Cellcard is committed to enabling the growth of Cambodian talent and is an active partner in the development of skills needed for future leaders to succeed in the digital space.

At present Cellcard is partnered with technology firms, leading business consultants in the region and local experts across learning and capacity development in order to build relevant

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programmes for its talent base.

“We apply the 70:20:10 learning model to our professional development plans, leveraging on a variety of platforms to make the whole process more enjoyable,” continues Watson. “Our programme is focused on providing our employees with access to projects, cross-functional assignments, job rotation and executive mentorship with stretched targets.”

Affordable mobile data

The predominant focus for the Company is providing the market with the best possible value offers, some of which include Osja Xchange and Big Love, enabling Cellcard to stay in line with building the biggest and fastest network in the country.

“We are proud to have achieved this in the short space of less than a year and are now able to offer affordable mobile data to all Cambodians,” affirms Watson. “This is our core

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TELCOTECH LTD

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elcotech is the sole Cambodian member of AAG and MCT submarine cable. MCT is the first submarine cable directly connecting Cambodia to Thailand, Malaysia and to the rest of the world via other cable systems.

Telcotech is a leading and ISO certified provider for a wide variety of communication services from retails to wholesales of data, submarine, IP capacity, voice, IDC, cloud and managed networks in Cambodia. #7D, Russian Blvd. (Street 110) Cambodia Chamber of Commerce Building Phnom Penh Cambodia T +855 23 888 181 E ibs@telcotech.com.kh

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PLC GROUP

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ellcard and PLC Group have partnered for close to a decade to reduce OPEX and optimise CAPEX using PLC’s flagship remote monitoring and control hardware and software platforms (SITELOGIC and OPEXLOGIC).

The Company has been able to demonstrate value due to exceptional support from Cellcard’s executive and operational management and teams at all levels. We look forward to continuing this win-win relationship.

strategy and we are of course aware that accelerating our mobile data saturation will have a direct link to our GDP. “It is thanks to our push for faster and more affordable mobile networks that we have taken the lead in a recent study released by OpenSignal for fastest overall network and fastest 4G network.”

Testing on 4G+ / 4.5 networks provided Cellcard with a clear win, indicating that its download speeds were two times faster than the test results of the nearest rival, Smart Axiata. In addition, it was noted that Cellcard’s 4G test results exceed the global LTE download average of 16.2 Mbps (megabit per second).

“In the category of overall network speed which combined both our 3G and 4G network performance, we again emerged as a clear winner with our average speed of 8.1 Mbph across the entirety of our data networks,” adds Watson. “The report’s results

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PRINTCARE SECURE LTD

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rintcare Secure Ltd is a member of the Printcare PLC Group.

Based in Sri Lanka, the Group was founded almost 40 years ago. Today, the Group supplies print, packaging and support solutions to more than 50 countries around the globe.

Printcare Secure was established in 2004 and since 2005 has been a proud supplier of millions of pre paid phone cards to Cellcard.

At its purpose built security facility Printcare Secure’s dedicated staff using state-of-the-art machinery and processes produces billions of specialised phone cards, instant lottery tickets, promotional tickets and security documents each year.

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were the perfect confirmation for network enhancement programme that we commenced earlier in 2017, involving the expansion of Cellcard’s network footprint as well as capacity upgrades to take 4G to 4G+ and 4.5 and the 3G technology up to 3.75 (H+).

Assessing target demographic

When taking into consideration the large market that the Company is catering for, its product range has grown into quite the extensive offering, including business SMS marketing, vehicle tracking, data management, data SIM Wi-Fi solutions and executive post paid plans.

“We see a great variety when it comes to the demographic of our customers, with a big difference between urban and rural users,” explains Watson. “The majority of our rural customers will take the Osja Xchange, for both the voice and longer validity and some small business owners in rural areas taking our other

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It is increasingly apparent thanks to recent industry studies that focusing on digital advancements moving forward into 2018 will increase our relevance to a more youthful market

offers from SoHo. “Our main revenue comes from Premium ARPU customers - the urban business people - however, we are currently turning our focus towards the digital natives and the younger segment of our customers that take our Big Love packages for the volume and price.”

As with any company within the industry, the importance of remaining relevant in its offerings to the market is paramount to its success.

Watson states: “We have found that driving youth relevance is particularly important and this year we have carried out a selection of exciting activations for our youth segment.”

One of the aforementioned engaging activities includes Super Data Race, an app-based reality game that is integrated with social media. From two events, almost 2,000 participants took part, realising the Company’s aim to show its youthful market just how good the network is.

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HAGAR CATERING AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT Hagar Catering & Facilities Management #44, Street 310, BKK 1, Phnom Penh, Cambodia +855 23 221 501 | info@hagarcatering.com www.facebook.com/HagarRestaurantAndCatering/ www.hagarcatering.com

Hagar Catering & Facilities Management (HCFM) was established in 1998 and has remained a leading foodservice provider in Cambodia for close to two decades.

The Company’s mission is to provide high quality, professional food catering services to companies and organisations operating in Cambodia at competitive prices. The Company currently produces over 20,000 meals daily for employees and students of over 30 different companies, hotels, school and factories.

Hagar Catering recently expanded its business activities by opening food courts in Phnom Penh. Nham Central and Nham Pochentong food courts offer a wide selection of traditional Khmer dishes at affordable prices.

“We have also been running campaigns using various augmented reality and virtual reality gaming and hope to expand our social media footprint utilising these new methods,” explains Watson. “It is increasingly apparent thanks to recent industry studies that focusing on digital advancements moving forward into 2018 will increase our relevance to a more youthful market.”

Bridging the gap

In 2017 Cellcard has taken a particularly innovative approach to increasing its customer scope, hiring five youth ambassadors from universities across the country to provide more of an insight into the needs of students and those making the transition into their first job.

“In return for their assistance, we provided our ambassadors with a crash course in mobile marketing,” continues Watson. “This provides

them with excellent skills that they can use while at university and build on in the future.”

Although Cambodia is not necessarily the first Asia-Pacific market that would spring to mind when it comes to these latest technological and mobile broadband advancements, it is coming on leaps and bounds.

“Not only our Company, but every mobile operator in the country is now offering 4G services to customers,” Watson describes. “Despite the fact that we were actually the last cellular company to launch 4G, we have made up for lost time through offering the fastest connectivity of the bunch.”

With this in mind, Cellcard isn’t simply content with improving its 3G and 4G connections. Looking forward over the next few years the Company is setting its sights on 5G, with a multitude of plus points among which include the extra capacity and revenue opportunities generated.

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Fibre Optics Converge ICT Solutions is a leading force in offering value added integrated solutions, creating world-class network and internet connectivity Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Donovan Smith

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COAST CABLE SALES & SERVICES INC

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OAST CABLE SALES & SERVICES INC serves the Philippine cable industry with the most trusted and highest quality US products and has been a member of the Philippine Cable Television Association since 1995.

As a distributor of all major brands with competitive prices and personal aftersales support, the Company also offers CATV-related services like equipment repair, coaxial & FOC installation, maintenance and technical support.

We value our loyal customers, of which Converge ICT is one, and their continuous patronage is a vital part of the Company’s growth and is very much appreciated.

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www.coastcablesalesservices.com onverge ICT Solutions started out its days as a cable TV provider, predominantly operating within residential and commercial establishments in Angeles, Pampanga.

Over the years the business has expanded through the provision of data services to Japanese companies in 1996, at which point it was named ComClark Network and Technology Corporation.

Through the development of its expertise within this industry, Converge ICT Solutions Inc, as we know it today was borne. With thanks to its many successful projects over the years, the Company has a National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) licence and was recently awarded with a congressional franchise to operate nationwide as a telecommunications and ICT company.

“During our journey we have built a robust network made up of thousands

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of kilometres of fibre optic cable which is located across Metro Manila, and North and South Luzon,” explains Dennis Anthony Uy, Chief Executive Officer at Converge ICT Solutions.

“Through the application of our innovative fibre optic technology, Converge has evolved to become a Company that can offer corporate solutions IP, internet services, IP MPLS, Metro Ethernet, managed DWDM, dark fibre lease, lambda transport service, international private line,

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domestic leased line value- added services, web hosting, email hosting, domain name registration, XaaS & Inter-Cloud Services, managed services, smart city, big data/analytics, surveillance cloud, Vtrack, and MyClinic.”

At present the Company offers its cable TV and broadband services under the Air Cable brand to its customers in Central Luzon, as well as parts of Batangas. Fibre services are available to homes and are provided under the FibreX Brand in Central Luzon and NCR, with Enterprise data services available nationwide.

Product modernisation

Since the Company’s inception it has continuously invested in the modernisation of its products, based around the key pillars that it was founded on. These pillars include infrastructure, technology, IT automation, process improvement and talent development.

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Uy adds: “In order to achieve such consistent modernisation of our products and services, we have had to deploy state-of-the-art technology as well as aligning structures, processes and people to achieve the best possible practices in ISO, ITIL, PMP, MEF and FTT. “At Converge we are committed to putting forward a service that competes on the basis of achieving the best experience possible for our customer.”

In recent times the Company has increased its services with the roll out of its fibre optic backbone, fibre to the home services and DOCISIS services.

All of the above utilise cutting-edge technologies such as micro-trenching, xPON, DWDM and metro Ethernet forum-based corporate data services.

“The enhancements that we have worked on to stabilise our international backbone have included the activation of POPs in the US, Hong Kong and Singapore,” continues Uy. “The expansion of our internet peering capabilities to Tier 1 Global IPS has

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allowed for domestic peering with key players and government exchange with key global players.”

Updated services

At Converge we are committed to putting forward a service that competes on the basis of achieving the best experience possible for our customer

Although the Company recognises the importance of regularly updating its services to keep up with market demands, perhaps the biggest value added service to Converge over the years has been its customer service identity.

“In an effort to provide faster service we have created an in-house installation and repair team in order to achieve faster and more efficient connectivity,” affirms Jesus C. Romero, Chief Operations Officer at Converge ICT Solutions. “This ensures that at every stage of the process everyone is experiencing better internet with superior service.

“Superior service is a huge part of our entire philosophy and the ability to provide top-notch service in every aspect of engagement with our customers.”

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When it comes to value added services on the product front, the Company is creating new, exciting and relevant services that address the ever changing customer requirements for lifestyle, entertainment, safety and security that are soon to be launched.

“We aim to achieve a healthy balance for the Company through employing a mixture of internal developments as well as the continuous enhancements of our existing capabilities,” explains Romero.

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“We ensure that relevant training and certification programmes are in place for the successful implementation of key disciplines, while also uplifting capabilities to align with best practices and standards.”

Strategic relationships

Alongside its work to enhance the Company’s services to its customers, Converge is also heavily active in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities.

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“One of our earliest CSR projects involved creating the first free public Wi-Fi service in the city of Angeles, called Angeles City ConnectED,” states Romero. “We worked together with the city Government in order to ensure that no expense fell with the city, as well as installing free Wi-Fi hotspots in 13 key destinations around the city.”

Alongside these slightly smallerscale projects, the Company has also spearheaded a new age in connectivity with its Smart City projects in order

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We are excited for the future of our Company, with the upcoming launch of our new IT enabled customer self-serve and service platforms

to aid the Metro Manila Development Authority and key cities such as Quezon City and Baguio.

“This project has been a huge advancement for us, working with several elements that are both infrastructure-based and applicationbased in order to be successful overall,” explains Romero. “Some of the elements included vehicle tracking systems, traffic management and video surveillance.”

Throughout all of its developments

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Converge has always taken into account the needs of its customers, considering that in this day and age they will often be wary and frustrated back lacking services and infrastructure.

Converge has tried to bring a breath of fresh air to the market through the delivery of a specialised customer experience, based on solid products, continuous process improvements and a motivated and effective workforce.

“We are excited for the future of our Company, with the upcoming launch of our new IT enabled customer self-serve and service platforms,” concludes Uy. “We believe that our work will radically alter the way that customers engage with IP service providers.

“In the next few years we hope to expand our reach nationwide and are currently working on an exciting plan which we hope will allow us to cover the entirety of the Philippines in the next three years.”

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OUR WAY People are the central focus of all operations at PNG Air, demonstrating care and understanding of customers’ needs while adhering to strict safety standards Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Callam Waller NG Air is responsible for providing a service to the country that is a crucial connector to the more diverse regions, including land that is spread across islands, mountains, rivers and jungles.

The Company and the industry that it operates in as a whole is vital to the people living in Papua New Guinea (PNG), servicing those that are travelling for business, family, friendship and recreational purposes. Aviation is an essential service and a widely appreciated one at that; held in

the same regard as hospitals and schools which also place a lot of responsibility on the airlines.

“The incredible geography that makes our country so unique is also the factor that makes it one of the world’s most difficult environments for aviation services,” explains Muralee Siva, Chief Executive Officer at PNG Air. “This has heightened the need for PNG to develop a modern, dynamic and cutting-edge airline for its residents.”

When taking these factors into account, launching a new airline which is a difficult enough task in

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HAWKER PACIFIC

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awker Pacific is a market leader in integrated civil and military aerospace sales and product support in Southeast Asia, Australia, the Pacific and the Middle East.

As one of the largest independent companies of its type in the region, for nearly 40 years Hawker pacific has provided a diverse range of integrated aviation solutions, including aircraft sales, product support and flight services.

The Company represents some of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers such as Beechcraft, Cessna, Bell Helicopter and Diamond Aircraft, as well as providing support to a wide range of manufacturers.

most countries as it is - is especially challenging for PNG Air. However, despite the difficulties it has been faced with, this is a challenge that the Company has taken on wholeheartedly, aiming to become the fresh face of aviation in the country.

“The vision to create our Company was first formulated in 2013, and from the beginning it has always been about creating an exceptional connector for all Papua New Guineans,” affirms Siva.

“This differs from many companies that are simply focusing on the lucrative resources sector. PNG Air is all about people and that will be reflected in everything we do.

“We are committed to creating more opportunities for people to travel, making it easier to book and pay for your travel and improving our service.”

With its initial plans built upon the need to enrich the lives of those living in PNG, the Company identified the three key aspects that it needed

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to change in order to achieve this, including improved performance, ownership, the aircraft and the brand name.

“We brought PNG Air into a majority ownership with the MRDC Group and NasFund, and between them they represent a large proportion of the country’s population,” continues Siva.

“This was a critical factor in the steps to sharpening the focus we have on serving the domestic market.

“We know that an airline can only be as good as its fleet, and this is the reason that PNG Air has invested so heavily in the best aircraft for PNG’s difficult conditions.”

Making a difference

Throughout its development as a Company, PNG Air has always focused on the areas in which it believes it can make a difference.

“From the beginning we have set out to provide a top-class domestic service and it is only once we have

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Ranging from new and used aircraft to engineering design and aircraft special mission modification, MRO support, spares supply, avionics support, aircraft charter and fleet management, Hawker Pacific will always deliver the best aviation solution.

Hawker Pacific is proudly Australia’s premier fixed base operator (FBO), with a network of facilities located in Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Singapore, Perth and Shanghai.

At the core of Hawker Pacific’s growth and success is its primary focus on delivering exemplary customer service and tailored aviation solutions. Hawker Pacific prides itself on going above and beyond to exceed customer Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx expectations, while buildingxxxxxxxxx longstanding relationships with clients in markets all over the world.

Hawker Pacific specialises in working closely with customers to clearly identify and understand unique requirements, allowing it to deliver both the best solutions and advice with thanks to the extensive experience and knowledge it has developed over the years.

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aviation needs for the country, which we believe will take place in 2018.”

In terms of the contracts PNG Air has in place presently to aid this development, the airline successfully bid for the rights to all Newcrest Mining domestic RPT requirements in October, 2014. This was followed up by the consolidation of the RPT and Charter requirements for the Company in August, 2017.

Siva explains: “Without a doubt, this contract has been the largest travel account for PNG by quite the considerable margin, with this win reflective of the faith in our service delivery and the new products that we are able to offer.”

Training and technical skill development

Rigorous internal processes

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Due to the highly technical capabilities needed at PNG Air, the Company’s available pool of talent often lacks the education or training requirements available in other markets. As a result achieved that delivery, that our sights of this, hiring based on attitude, will be set on other markets,” adds enthusiasm, willingness to learn and Siva. “We have held true to our core honesty and integrity becomes vital to business strategy and are always the selection process. looking to develop opportunities that “I have always said that you can keep in line with our vision and goals provide someone with training and for the future.” teach them skills, but you cannot In order to carry out these external change a person’s attitude,” continues developments, the Company has Siva. “We are fortunate enough to rigorous internal processes that have been able to hire good people are constantly ongoing in order to and I am passionate about offering eliminate unnecessary costs and them a reason to stay with us. wastage. The airline is completely “Career progression is a huge part focused on developing the best of what we do at PNG Air, so when possible aviation products for PNG, we see talent we will work hard to and subsequently has brought in brand foster and develop it to the best of our new aircraft to the country. ability.”

“Perhaps our biggest strength The key driver and reason for success within the Company is the discipline we at PNG Air is its people, over time have established, enabling us to stick having developed a likeminded team to our vision for the future which were who believe in what the Company is agreed upon almost five years ago by trying to achieve. In addition to that, both our board and shareholders,” the aforementioned clear vision of the states Siva. “We hope that our plans future of the business model and future place us in prime position to take makes it a lot easier to run the day-to-day advantage of the next boom in improvements.

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Digital impact

Despite the fact that PNG Air is rapidly developing, the country it operates in still tends to lag behind in terms of developed country trends, such as the movement to self-check in and biometric scanning for boarding pass control.

“Unfortunately in this area we are slightly playing catch-up, with the digital impact on the business around three-five years behind the developed world,” explains Siva. “At present it is not so much staying ahead of the industry curve, but rather adapting innovations from offshore that we are able to manage from the environment that we operate in.”

Looking forward, it is hoped that through continued developments in the next few years, the airline will be the preferred domestic carrier within the country.

“I’m confident in the fact that our service levels and customer support will be acknowledged as being the best

Building relationships to become the best in the industry

in the industry; building relationships with carriers to provide the most cost effective service in PNG,” concludes Siva. “I also hope that we will be the

employer of choice within the region, with staff that are genuinely proud of the contribution they are making to the development of our country.”

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Hongkong Jet’s acquisition of Asia Jet in late 2016 affirmed its market-leading position and ambition within APAC’s executive jet industry en route to its goal of becoming a holistic, one-stop shop service provider to discerning clients and corporations Writer: Matthew Staff Project Manager: Callam Waller

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APAC Aviation s a part of the HNA Group and a subsidiary of Deer Jet Co. Ltd, China, Deer Jet (Hong Kong) Business Jet Management Limited - trading as: “Hongkong Jet” - is firmly en route to achieving its ambition of becoming a holistic, turnkey market leader in the APAC executive jet market.

Established as a Hong Kong Corporation in 2009 before obtaining

an HKCAD AOC in 2011 - as well as Part 145 maintenance approval a year later - the business has evolved in a budding industry that only comprised of four business jet operators in Hong Kong at the time of inception. Today, Hongkong Jet can proudly say it has been part of a revolution that now culminates in almost 30 such aircraft management companies.

Chief Executive Officer, Denzil White introduces: “The early development of

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in the Ascendancy Hongkong Jet focused on obtaining a full suite of services including aircraft management, flight operations/ dispatch, maintenance, and charter services.

“With this in place and the ability to provide clients with a safe and efficient service, the focus switched to growth, achieving economies of scale and offering clients with service excellence.

We have been fortunate in this regard and are proud of the fact that we

have achieved year-on-year growth in excess of 25 percent per annum over the past three years.”

Expanding one’s portfolio and offering perspective as well as simply from a revenue point of view, each and every investment and business diversification has been with the Company’s original vision in mind: to be a market leader and the most respected, integrated business aviation services provider throughout Asia-

Pacific and beyond.

“The mission is for our passionate team of experts to provide clients with a safe, personal, proactive and professional service, which consistently exceeds expectations,” White continues. “In order to achieve the mission statement, we adhere to the following basic principles; placing safety above all else, followed by service excellence, sustainability and profitability.

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ncorporated in Hong Kong since 1966, Hong Thai Travel Services Limited is dedicated to provide professional services to commercial organisations in Hong Kong, Singapore and mainland China.

Hongkong Jet is one of our long supporting clients and the Company provides all round corporate travel services with a 24-hour emergency support hotline.

Over the years, Hong Thai has already built up an extensive network with airlines, hotels, tourism broads, global distribution systems and land operators all around the world, to meet our customers’ every need.

Denzil White, Chief Executive Officer

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We have instilled a safety culture throughout the organisation and are proud of the fact that we were one of the first, and one of only four, business jet companies in APAC to have been awarded with the prestigious IS-BAO III safety rating from IBAC – International Business Aviation Council.

In order to achieve these success parameters and to provide clients with expert services at the right price, Hongkong Jet has invested in subsidiary companies such as Asia Jet and UAS to capitalise on their economies of scale and strong brand reputations to match its own.

White affirms: “Our parent company, Deer Jet, manages and operates approximately 55 jets in China so there is no need for us to prospect for clients in this market. With our focus principally outside of China we purchased the award winning charter Company in Asia Jet and established a JV business jet management and charter company in Kuala Lumpur,

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Malaysia to be a springboard into establishing our presence in the SE Asia Market.”

Service capabilities

Hongkong Jet established its aforementioned company in Guernsey called Business Aviation Services Guernsey Limited in early 2017 (BASG) to further compound its proactive expansion ambitions; the acquisition quickly becoming the second company to obtain a 2-REG AOC (Aircraft Operating Certificate) which was presented by the regulator to Mr White in April this year at ABACE17 in Shanghai. It is also the first Guernsey operator to be approved by EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) in September, 2017 as a Third Country Operator license holder (TCO).

Ultimately, this means that while Deer Jet China, primarily, is taking care of the Chinese mainland market and Chinese outbound travel needs, Hongkong Jet can look to expand

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across APAC, Europe and even further afield via acquisitions and through suitably viable commercial agreements with approved partners.

A joint venture with a subsidiary, Berjaya Vacation Club Sdn Bhd of the Berjaya Group (MYX: 3395), in Malaysia complemented with an active sales team based in its offices in Subang International Airport, Kuala Lumpur epitomises the ethos further and forms just one small strand of an overall capital expenditure philosophy which continues to take the business to new heights.

“The digital age is upon us and many off-the-shelf platforms are available to simplify the business, provide big data, and offer online charter reservations with very short response times,” White offers as an example on the technology front. “Most of these products however only focus on individual aspects of business aviation, such as safety dispatch, charter or maintenance. I believe that there is an

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The Honkong Jet Management Team DENZIL WHITE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

DAVE YIP, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

With more than 25 years’ experience in business and commercial aviation, White was one of the co-founding partners of ExecuJet and was instrumental in growing this business to a highly respected international company; managing, operating and maintaining more than 150 business jets. In November, 2014 Denzil joined Hongkong Jet as the Chief Operating Officer and in June, 2015 was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer. He assumed the CEO role of BAS Guernsey Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hongkong Jet ,when the Company was duly incorporated in Guernsey and issued with an Aircraft Operating Certificate under 2-REG.

Yip began his aviation career as a Maintenance Planner with HAECO in 2000 before leaping into business aviation in 2006 as an Engineering Support Manager at Metrojet, the pioneering Hong Kong based business aviation management company.

Dave joined Hongkong Jet as Director, Business & Programme Support in July, 2011. He was one of the earliest to join the Company and with his invaluable engineering knowledge, Dave has been contributing selflessly to Hongkong Jet ever since; ultimately being promoted to COO in Q1, 2017.

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MIKE WALSH, CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Originally from the UK, Walsh is a 21year veteran within the global aviation industry. Aside from being in charge of all commercial business development activities of BAS Guernsey and its AOC from a charter prospective, Walsh also serves as CEO of Asia Jet and CCO of Hongkong Jet. He has worked previously in Europe, USA, Russia CIS, and the Middle East markets with Air Charter Service PLC before moving to Asia-Pacific in 2007. He joined Asia Jet in 2009 and helped it become a leading recognised and award-winning regional charter brokerage and aircraft management Company. He is an active member of AsBAA (Asian Business Aviation Association), sits on the organisational committee of the ABACE Show with NBAA, and is also an active participant in the American Chamber of Commerce,British Chamber of Commerce and Irish Chamber of Commerce transport committees.

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opportunity for someone to integrate everything into one platform spanning all of the business jet services; but in particular, CAMO, maintenance, operations, charter and finance.

“Deer Jet China launched at ABACE17 a Chinese language-based app which has proved popular with clients, offering many of these products and services through a touch of a button. Two particular products in Deer Jet Care Plus and the Deer Jet FBO membership Card highlight the parent Company’s ambitions to keep evolving to its clients’ needs to stay one step ahead of its competitors. I myself have observed the entire HNA Group philosophy and the strategy for

several years now has been focused on the importance of the digital medium; and we collectively hope to be able to leverage such technology and big data sharing for our international clientele in the near future too, realising the economies of scale such a service provider Group of Companies can offer.

“Equipment- wise we have also recently invested in a new safety platform called Sera and are investing internally in conjunction with Deer Jet to provide data frames for interpreting the downloads from aircraft flight data recorders.”

Inevitably, the Company’s fleet is updated on a continuous basis, often in line with its acquisitions; the addition of the Boeing B787 Dream Jet and a new Gulfstream G650ER comprising just two of the most recent additions to the fleet. White highlights the importance of the likes of the Asia

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“The mission is for our passionate team of experts to provide clients with a safe, personal, proactive and professional service, which consistently exceeds expectations.”

Associated companies: HNA Group Co. Ltd Deer Jet Co. Ltd Honkong Jet Asia Jet Asia Jet Partners Malaysia Sdn Bhd Business Aviation Services Guernsey Limited (BASG)

Jet and UAS acquisitions in order to expand the business’s remit and capabilities effectively and efficiently.

“There is not always sufficient time to grow organically, so when the opportunity strikes and the company cultures are aligned, one needs to consider mergers and acquisitions, and we are very pleased to have, overnight, expanded our service capabilities to include worldwide trip support and business jet charters,” he confirms.

A complex business

In Hong Kong, the Company currently accounts for 25 percent of the market, but when combined with Deer Jet China, it is the largest business jet operator in APAC by fleet size, revenue and headcount. This alone signifies the importance of the group structure it has been able to build.

And of course, within each and every department of each and every company,

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Xxxx xxxxxxx Etureperibus. Su Quality and safety in equal measure

the significance of a strong human resource strategy is paramount.

“With the rapid increase in management companies in Hong Kong, there is a great deal of employee movement between management companies. We have however been very fortunate in this regard and despite restructuring and some evitable attrition during the Asia Jet integration process, most of our key staff have been with the Company in excess of five years,” White enthuses.

“We recently lost two employees; one returned within a couple of months and the other after a couple of weeks.

“Dealing with people is nevertheless a complex business and we are not immune to losing staff. However, we like to consider employees as part of the Hongkong Jet family and offer them long-term career opportunities.”

Similar challenges can be found across areas of supply chain

management too as with a compliment of 11 different aircraft types, it is impossible to keep a significant spares holding in-house.

Instead, the Company relies on the manufacturers to provide parts as and when they are needed, and this is just one of many industry nuances that Hongkong Jet is having to monitor and negotiate in order to remain at the top of the sector.

“From a business jet perspective, Hong Kong is a dying city,” White concludes. “100 years ago, major cities were defined by having a major harbour. Today megacities are defined by having multiple airports within easy commuting distance of the city centre. In the case of London and New York they have 10, but Hong Kong has only one airport which is limited by take-off and landing slots; particularly for business jets which are given the lowest priority unfortunately.

“A lack of understanding - from airport operators who typically deal with commercial schedule airliners - of the value of our sector to the wider economy and the flexible nature of business jet users increases the problem. They don’t seem motivated to want to help to solve the issue, but instead try to put a band aid on a complex issue and hope it will go away or at least have kicked the can down the road. ” This is why diversification and international expansion is so important, and as Hongkong Jet looks to consolidate in Hong Kong and Malaysia in order to leverage opportunities further into APAC and beyond, the business can be safe in the knowledge that the holistic, one-stop shop nature of its portfolio will lend itself to a global clientele in search of services that cater for the full lifecycle of business jet ownership.

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Securing the Present, Innovating the Future Guardforce Group has already secured its reputation as a cash-in-transit pioneer, but is now looking to capitalise on the most contemporary of technologies to tackle the next frontier of business security Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Callam Waller

Terence Yap, Group Chief Executive Officer

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ong Kong-based Guardforce Group has spent the past 40 years expanding and diversifying its operational capabilities to become experts in the field of security. For a Company that has always placed customer satisfaction at the head of its ethos however, the job is never done, and Guardforce is now striving to affirm the same recognition as a one-stop solutions provider.

Previously and primarily renowned for its cash-in-transit astuteness, this current turnkey approach reflects upon a motto which has driven Guardforce forward since day one: “securing the present, innovating the future”.

“We are the leader in providing a full range of security-related services, including security manpower, cash-intransit and cash management, security storage and courier, international highvalue cargoes dispatch, and electronic security,” introduces Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Terence Yap. “Our one-stop security solutions are trusted by banks, large corporations and major retailers across Asia; and with this motto - throughout our 40year history - Guardforce has always

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strived to better meet customers’ evolving needs.”

Guardforce believes that the need to protect is an ever-constant, but the ‘how’ fluctuates, and this is where the Company has showcased its niche over the years; progressing to its recent development of innovative technologies and cutting-edge solutions that include Mobile Safe, Guardforce Cash Deposit Machine, retail analytics solutions, a smartguard anti-wandering solution for elderly care using facial recognition technology, robotics solutions, and many other state-of-art technologies.

“We structure our services based on three main focuses to serve our customers better,” Yap continues.

“The first is security personnel and facilities management which require manpower, such as guarding, aviation, cleaning, abd building maintenance. Secure logistics services then require more physical movement of valuables such as cash-in-transit, cash management, cash processing, ATM management, deposit machines, secure courier and our Mobile Safe service.”

The third element entails security technology which not only embraces

ASIA surveillance systems and CCTV but also more refined and innovative solutions across retail analytics, video analytics, cyber security and robotics.

“Cash-in-transit and cash management are our major services at the moment, therefore the majority of our clientele emanates from the banking, finance and retail industries,” Yap elaborates. “However we see there will be a change in the future with the shifting focus to the new innovative solutions rather than our traditional business.”

Long-term benefits

Guardforce’s flexibility and willingness to move with - and ahead of - the times is indicative of its success over the decades and is further compounded by its international diversification. Based in Hong Kong, the Company also enjoys a strong presence in Macau and Thailand, with further migration across Asia-Pacific a clear goal looking forward.

“Our latest acquisition of SECUREcorp in Australia last year has further expanded our footprint in Asia-Pacific and added synergy to the business in terms of clientele and talents,” Yap adds. Additionally, “we believe the “One Belt One Road” initiative will further drive investment, trade and commerce and thus will create lots of opportunities in the region”.

The CEO adds: “The demand for security is expected to rise in this region and we will continue to expand our footprint to fill the gaps in these markets.”

While partly a result of market research and trend anticipation, the skill behind keeping ahead of the industry curve actually resorts back to Guardforce’s overarching principle of listening to and understanding customers, and their needs, ahead of time.

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Especially prevalent in the present day virtue of the reliance on new and ever-changing technologies, the Company has happily diversified its portfolio and service remit to ensure this adherence; basing more and more of its solutions around technological application.

“At present, we place our focus on developing solutions and integrating cutting-edge, intelligent technology expertise with diverse security services; ensuring not only that security is enhanced, but also to help our clients manage their business and resources more efficiently and effectively,” Yap affirms. “Importantly it also adds value and creates longterm benefits for their business.

“Our Smart Cash deposit machine, (GCM) for example, helps save manpower, reduce risks and improve operational efficiency for retailers.

Electronic security deploying the latest facial recognition and intelligent retail analytics solutions helps to provide instant marketing insights for retailers.

Cyber security enhances a company’s data protection from hackers. And robotics solutions provide multi-

function, fully automated, manpower saving and consistent performance solutions through labour optimisation.”

A real partnership

These select examples represent just a small sample of the services that Guardforce is marketing at present while a plethora of additional solutions are also under development. And the ultimate consequence is that the Company delivers on its own core principles and reputation of being an enterprise that listens and delivers on its promises.

“We believe that technology is the future. We are helping our clients to secure the present by protecting their assets and people,” Yap says.

“We believe that innovation is key to any business and therefore, we will continue to innovate to meet the everchanging needs of our clients and to strive for service excellence.”

The dedication to wider client enrichment can’t be a solo pursuit however, and Guardforce has long recognised the need to partner with likeminded organisations if it is to truly live up to its philosophy.

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illis Towers Watson’s relationship with Guardforce initiated more than three years ago where capabilities, industry understandings and solutions were aligned for the betterment and growth of both expanding organisations.

As the primary point of contact for some of Willis Towers Watson’s major clients, Ivy Chow is the Client Relationship Director for Guardforce and has overseen the blossoming of this business partnership ever since.

She comments: “We ensure we are delivering the best possible solutions and bringing our best people to the client, irrespective of location. And our proposition was brought to life with Guardforce’s most recent acquisition in Asia Pacific.

“This was complex as it involved different organisations, with different buyers in different geographies. We engaged our local teams to support us on the review and to ensure we were giving the best possible advice whilst conforming to local compliance protocols and regulations.”

The result was a multinational policy, arranged out of Hong Kong, so that Guardforce could have a centralised view of their programme, whilst policies were issued locally. This provided wider coverage and a streamlined mechanism to review and control the programme, evidencing Willis Towers Watson’s ability to deliver bespoke policy wordings, leveraging the global reach of the group, to optimise coverage as well as reduce the cost of risk.

Guardforce Group comments: “We always appreciate the professionalism and excellent service that Willis Towers Watson provides. Willis Towers Watson is able to custommake solutions catering to our needs and resolving many issues for us. With the Company’s service, we enjoy tremendous peace of mind.”

"...we place our focus on developing solutions and integrating cutting-edge, intelligent technology expertise with diverse security services; ensuring not only that security is enhanced, but also to help our clients manage their business and resources more efficiently and effectively.”

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T +852 2827 0111 E enquiry.hk@willistowerswatson.com

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Guardforce's awardwinning smart-guard anti-wandering solution for elderly care using facial recognition technology is the first in Hong Kong.

Robotics solutions provide multi-function, fully-automated, manpower-saving and consistent performance solutions through labour optimisation.

"We believe that technology is the future. We are helping our clients to secure the present by protecting their assets and people."

Forming relationships with leading technological enablers has subsequently facilitated much of its final portfolio, but will always be complimentary to the Company’s primary relationship, which is with its own people.

Yap notes: “We are in the service business and therefore, people are our number one priority. We place significant investment on training and developing our people. We encourage internal promotion, so staff will be rewarded and recognised through their hard work and loyalty.

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“We also care about their offspring and family and a few years ago we set up an annual awards aim to encourage the children with outstanding school achievements to participate.”

Guardforce has been awarded the Family-Friendly Employers Award by the Family Council as a result, once again reassuring staff - just like it does its customers - that the Company is a committed and responsible operator across the entire value chain.

“There are three main characteristics that set Guardforce apart from its competitors,” Yap says. “One and two

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are our ability to listen to customers and our innovation, but the third is our people and the retention of a steady work team.

“Customers know they can communicate with the same contact person, who knows them, their needs and the history that exists between the two organisations in order to create a real partnership and a lasting relationship.”

Harness the power of connectivity

‘Long-lasting’ is an apt description for Guardforce Group in general, having

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overseen numerous milestones in recent years to become an awardwinning operator of widespread repute.

The Belt and Road initiative will now open further doors for the business from an international perspective, all the while making sure that the final service isn’t diluted and that the customers continue to receive the same market-leading, turnkey and innovative security solutions.

“In the future Guardforce will continue to be a recognisable brand delivering professional services to our

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clients in the region,” Yap emphasises.

“Increasingly, we will combine the right technology with our vast industry experience to deliver the right solutions to our clients.”

Various research reports have indicated that there could be as many as 50 billion connected devices by 2020, highlighting the reliance that businesses will have on things like IoT in the future.

And it is down to Guardforce to prepare for this revolution, and to capitalise on the clear opportunities it will bring to the best providers.

“Guardforce will continue to look into

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this opportunity to harness the power of connectivity,” Yap concludes. “In our relentless strive to remain relevant to our clients we will focus to be the pioneer in offering innovative solutions.

“We have the determination to enhance our service offerings to secure our customers’ present needs.

Equally importantly though, we will continuously innovate and develop new solutions to meet their future needs too.

“This vision is reflected in our slogan: “securing the present, innovating the future”.”

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ENERGY NuEnergy Gas is Indonesia’s independent clean energy provider, fully committed to exploration projects used to bring forward a new era for gas production Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Josh Hyland ince its acquisition by Malaysian investment holding company, Globaltec Formation Berhad in 2014, NuEnergy Gas Limited (NGY) has found a new lease of life in the oil & gas industry. The independent clean energy coal-bed methane (CMB) company was founded in Australia in 1985, and now has the resources to develop a set of exciting CBM prospects in South Sumatra.

At present NGY is primarily involved in the exploration, appraisal and

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development of coal seam gas and coal-bed methane centrally focusing its efforts on Indonesia.

“Our current workload includes six onshore production sharing contracts (PSC) across South Sumatra, Central Sumatra and East Kalimantan,” explains Ian Wang, Chief Executive Officer at NuEnergy Gas. “We are fully focused on the quick movement of these high value unconventional gas assets, moving them from the exploration phase to the development and monetising stages of the project.”

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Clean energy potential

The Company firmly believes in the PSCs that it is working on at present and the potential that they have to produce clean energy gas; providing that an appropriate strategy and an experienced technical and financial management team are in place.

“The previous three and a half years of practice within the Company has provided us with an exceptional team and subsequently the progress we are making in PSCs is being fast-tracked,” continues Wang. “A great example is one of our PSCs located in South Sumatra, which we have moved into a preparation phase that we hope will enable us to deliver gas into the market in the next 12-18 months.”

The Company is hopeful that all of the PSCs that are currently in the pipeline will be moved onto development stages within the next two to four years, creating numerous opportunities for it to excel in the market.

“The majority of our investments since 2016 have been centrally focused

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a CBM asset from exploration to production, as well as the first in the industry to deliver gas to a local market.

“We are extremely proud of our innovative nature and the fact that we are able to operate as a low-cost company,” Wang adds. “From the CBM wells we have drilled within Indonesia, to our well-to-well cost, we have always been between a third and a half lower than our industry peers.

NuEnergy has the skill, people and technology required “We have the skill, people and to succeed technology required to deliver energy on bringing our Tanjung Enim PSC to domestic markets quickly across a through to development,” adds Wang. wide range of services.”

“Our first pilot for the project was NGY is extremely proud of its people drilled in 2016 and was followed shortly and firmly believes them to be at after by the reserves certification the heart of the Company and what required to gain approval from the it does. Through instilling values of Government of Indonesia, leading ethical behaviour and offering active to the planned development which employee training, it has ensured that commenced in August, 2017.” all projects are carried out by the best in the industry.

Exploration projects Some recent projects undertaken The Company is at the forefront of by the Company’s team include developments in Indonesia, as the first Tanjung Enim PSC, Muara Enim PSC, company in the country to upgrade Muralim PSC, Rengat PSC and Bontang

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PT.SUBUR SEDAYA MAJU

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T Subur Sedeya Maju always abides by its Company vision which is to provide the best services to its customers through quality of its work, ensuring that all work is carried out safely and punctually, and to ensure that all work carried out is kind to the environment.

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Bengalon PSC. “Our Tanjung Enim venture was located close by to a growing economy of the two industrial cities of Prabumulih and Palembang respectively,” states Wang. “We were able to work within well developed infrastructure thanks to the longestablished Bukit Asam Coal mine and Pertamina oil & gas facilities.”

Due to the excellent potential found when working near Prabumulih and Palembang, the Company’s other recent projects have been taking place there. Co-located with Tanjung Enim, NGY is using its Muara Enim PSC as a project to provide opportunities for integrated development within the industry.

“Muralim PSC is another of our colocated projects that has highlighted the importance of placement within well established regions,” affirms Wang. “Situated about 65 kilometres from some of the major gas trunk lines that lead to Java market and

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General Contractor - Supplier OUR VISION Providing the best services to service users include quality, timeliness while maintaining safety, workplace health and environmental protection.

OUR MISSION Caring for equipment to always be in good condition by providing a maintenance place (workshop) equipped with skilled workforce and equipment, materials, spare parts in quantities that meet the standards.

Fostering wor workers to form high-standard moral in order to understand ethics, manners, communicative, informative, and responsible so that it can create a harmonious working relationship.

Creating safe and safe working conditions by: 1] Keep your workplace clean and comfortable.

2] Provide PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) free of charge in accordance with safety standards.

3] Provide equipment / equipment work in good condition and meet safety standards.

4] Fostering the attitude of workers to become workers who have a safetybased behavior.

5] Implement program safety program, occupational health and environment.

PALEMBANG: JL. Soekarno - Hatta No.114E Tel: (0711) 444086 Fax: (0711) 446993

PRABUMULIH: Tel: (0713) 7000466 - 7000643 Fax: (0713) 325355 - 320617

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sedayamaju2000@yahoo.com

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with export opportunities to Malaysia and Singapore, and is proving to be enduringly successful.”

One of the Company’s newer projects located slightly away from the co-located projects previously mentioned is Bontang Bengalon PSC. The asset NGY is working on is located in close proximity to the growing industry cities of Bontang and Sangatta. Again, the project had already provided the Company with well developed infrastructure with thanks to the establishment of Bontang LNG Plant in Bontang and the pre-existing mining infrastructure in Sangatta.

Delivering clean energy

When working in an industry that is so inundated with similar companies, NGY has had to firmly establish itself as the industry leader in Indonesia.

“At NuEnergy our management team are recognisably hands-on, with all of them possessing years of industry experience that range from subsurface to dewatering and project completion

“At NuEnergy our management team are recognisably handson, with all of them possessing years of industry experience...”

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to gas delivery,” continues Wang. “We have complete certainty that we have collected the right mix of people with the industry knowledge to appraise excellent CBM assets with ease and at a low cost.”

Alongside the excellence found with the Company’s staff, its core strengths include in-depth technical expertise, strong local capability, trusted relationships within the Indonesia energy community and a well established reputation as business partner of choice within the country.

“Moving forward, delivering clean

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energy to the market while also protecting the environment will maximise our returns to investors,” concludes Wang. “However, it is also important to us to continue our work in connecting resources to local communities and the people living there.

“We hope to continue on with our focus on the four South Sumatra PSCs in order to develop the large CBM supply we have been working on recently; I hope that in the future I will be discussing the continued success of these projects.”

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Motoring

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SEW-EURODRIVE’s reputation among the world’s manufacturing elite is cemented, but this isn’t preventing the Company from seeking more localised, refined growth in aligning itself with Industry 4.0 principles Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin

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ASIA or the best part of 90 years SEW-EURODRIVE has evolved and diversified in line with - and ahead of - the most significant manufacturing trends in order to supply its market-leading gear motors, motors, and electronic components to the world.

Initiating firstly in Germany, and then Europe, before turning its attentions globally, the business is now so much more than a supplier, and is instead striving to affirm its position as a turnkey solutions provider for clients looking to overtake the industry curve.

“The Company is about 87 years old and is still today a 100 percent German, privately owned entity,” introduces SEW-EURODRIVE THAILAND’s Managing Director (MD), Smith Tetchartvanich. “Producing motors and various types of electric saws in the beginning, the second era began after World War II where expansions into France and Europe were later followed by the USA, Brazil and eventually China and ASEAN. “What has remained special about SEW-EURODRIVE throughout the whole journey though is the modular system concept. Catering for a number of industries that require gears or gear motors (automotive, construction, food & drink etc), each have their own different requirements and while other operators struggled to customise or differentiate, SEW’s modular concept allows for customisability, flexibility and cost effectiveness in manufacturing bespoke and more simple products for clients.”

It is from this genesis that the Company’s market saturation really took off; its simple yet effective business model naturally lending itself to growth and expansion as customers around the world sought such an agile, localised service.

Smith continues: “Industries like construction, automotive and food & beverage find this kind of model

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important because, when they need new components or have breakdowns, they want a service right away. Having a global footprint facilitates that, and even if you’ve bought a unit from Germany and later move it to Japan, we can then follow up on our own service no matter where the customer is in the world.

“Ultimately, this fits in with our current vision of becoming more than just a supplier or component manufacturer and more of a solutions provider.”

Whereas SEW-EURODRIVE’s traditional offering comprised the supply of a market-leading, reliable component, this contemporary ambition is compounded by an allencompassing service which also entails variables such as power, speed, time and mechanical customisability within each product’s controls; as well as additional logistics solutions and peripheral functionality that contributes to the overall assembly line or factory make-up of each individual customer.

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Industry 4.0

Incepted in 1931 by former banker, Christian Pähr, the modern day SEWEURODRIVE is both a far-cry from the initial SEW brand (Southern German Electric motor Plant) that began by producing motors and electric saws in Bruchsal; but is also a strong retainer of the values that Mr. Pähr - and later, Ernst Blickle - instilled in the business in the early days.

“It really was a revolutionary concept; the modular system that goes into SEW gear motors,” Smith looks back. “The market needed drives that satisfied the special requirements of a variety of industrial sectors and production processes, and the modular system enabled perfect implementation across industrial series production with low unit costs. Expanding globally over the years, SEW-EURODRIVE proved its innovative drive again in 1994 when it brought its innovations to the ASEAN market; opening a plant in Tianjin, China as well as in Thailand.

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BDP INTERNATIONAL

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everaging on our vast global network, BDP goes places with SEW. The partnership stretches across the globe through optimised origin consolidation of orders into Thailand.

Understanding SEW’s SKU database enables accurate Thailand importation customs clearance. The final mile delivery to SEW has been flawless given the familiarity and knowledge gained over the past five years of partnership.

All physical processes are backed with complete visibility through BDP’s own developed BDP Smart Technology.

For without it, SEW cannot provide a good customer experience to its own stakeholders.

BDP celebrates continued success with SEW! T +66 2 105 4629 E info.th@bdpint.com

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Instilling Industry 4.0 principles, both internally, and for its clients

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“Today we have taken the modular concept to the next level, beyond our traditional products like gear motors.

It’s applied across our entire product portfolio including electronics and automation products.”

Now covering eight countries in the region, the same modular system - only with a renewed focus on turnkey solutions - emanates from a vast network of assembly plants and service centres that combine to ensure fast delivery times and efficient service to its customers.

Inevitably, the final string to the bow is then the product portfolio itself, as the MD details: “We are a leader in innovation, offering premium quality and state-of-the-art technologies to the market.

“When a customer buys an SEW-

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EURODRIVE product, they’re doing so because they know it will just run and run without any problems. But to achieve this, we need to practice what we preach and apply the same commitment to technologies, and Industry 4.0 in particular, into our own facilities.

“We therefore make sure we invest in and develop our own factory to Industry 4.0 principles, making sure we have the benchmark and role model of factories for the future.”

One step ahead

Smith Tetchartvanich, SEW-EURODRIVE Thailand’s Managing Director (MD)

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Smith adds that if people were to explore SEW-EURODRIVE’s factories, then they would essentially be looking into the future of manufacturing facilities from a technological and process perspective.

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And of course, ensuring the success of each and every investment are a team of experienced, skilled and importantly - local personnel.

“It’s the people who make the difference,” the MD says. “Whether in Germany or here in ASEAN we continuously invest in our people through training and our Academy by keeping staff up to speed with all the latest technologies and changing trends of the industry.

“We also believe that localisation is key as local personnel know the region best, and will be invested in directing SEW-EURODRIVE in a positive way.”

Again, such a philosophy contributes to the Company’s overriding market advantage which derives from premium quality. A middle-man customer can be safe in the knowledge

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that its own clients will be receiving a safe, sustainable and state-of-theart component requiring very little follow-up attention. And on the rare occasions that after-sales service or maintenance is required, they can be similarly assured by SEW-EURODRIVE’s localised focus and consequent speed of reaction.

“This is a key differentiator and helps affirm our position as sector leaders, but really we want to improve to be the best of the best across Industry 4.0 solutions looking forward,” Smith adds. “Our efforts around the industrial gear box sector and product improvements are based around a focus on the future and in making our factory a benchmark.

“This isn’t just about operational excellence but is also about efficiency

ASIA and the environment and generating products in the most energy sustainable way.”

Naturally, such trends differ from region to region, and the MD admits that ASEAN is a little way behind Europe or the US in meeting certain eco specifications. But for SEW this actually serves as a further competitive advantage, as it affirms its position at the head of the field, driving worldclass levels of innovation in a region that is still in the development phase.

“In ASEAN today, the situation is improving rapidly, and we are making sure that we are part of the development, and driving this improvement,” he concludes. “And by doing this, we will automatically remain one step ahead of our competitors in the region.”

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PROFESSIONAL TO THE

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Indodrill is recognised and respected for its high quality and safe drilling services across Asia and further afield, collaborating with a wide range of clients across multiple industries Writer: Phoebe Calver | Project Manager: Donovan Smith

dvancements within the drilling industry have been extensive during the past two decades, with thanks to a huge drive to make rigs more capable, efficient, easier and safer to operate.

Indodrill was first established in 1995 - just as the mining industry was beginning to evolve - the Company initially set up operations as a core driller to service the Indonesian minerals industry.

Within a short few years, Indodrill had grown its range of services to provide geothermal drilling services, as well as reverse circulation drilling services.

10 years into its journey, the Company made its first foray overseas in order to service a contract for Oxiana in Laos.

“Since that point in time we have continued to expand at a rapid rate, moving our operations into Cambodia, Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar and more recently Australia and Papua New Guinea,” begins Jason Lee, Chief Executive Officer at Indodrill. “Our first strategy in achieving this growth has been to ensure that we are able to maintain our standards of service in every new country we set-up in, and importantly make sure we’re able to deliver excellent performance to our clients.

“Alongside the technical advancements that we have been

witnessing of late, there has also been a mass influx in developments on drilling techniques, supply chain management and safety and performance reporting.”

Through the delivery and maintenance of safe and professional standards in all aspects of the business, Indodrill has ensured that its clients remain happy while also making sure that its safety and professionalism are not compromised.

Core Service

As previously mentioned the core services provided by Indodrill involve diamond drilling for the minerals sector, both on the surface and underground.

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“Beyond our work in the minerals sector, we have also worked hard to expand our drilling services to the energy sector, performing slimhole geothermal work and for the construction and infrastructure sectors we shifted our focus onto deep-hole and directional drilling,” continues Lee. “We have a particularly diverse fleet and our teams of operators are able to collaborate with clients to understand their drilling needs.

“We are able to consider our usual range of drilling services, as well as providing alternative suggestions for each client that may be appropriate for their project.”

In the Company’s relatively long history, there are many contracts that have stood out as memorable in terms of the development of Indodrill.

“The first contract we undertook

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abroad will always be special to us; providing an opportunity to drill outside of Indonesia and a huge step for us when it came to the option of expanding throughout Asia,” adds Lee. “We found that the project itself confirmed our ability to successfully enter new jurisdictions, while also collaborating with world-class operators on multi-rig multi-service drilling programmes.”

Alongside the benefits to the Company with experience, it also helped to raise its profile and reputation. Subsequently, shortly after this venture, Indodrill found itself with work in Cambodia, the Philippines, Malaysia and further afield.

“The second extremely memorable contract involved undertaking an underground drilling contract in the Philippines, which was actually the first of its kind for us,” Lee describes. “We

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see this as the moment that confirmed our ability to collaborate with worldclass explorers on multi-rig directional drilling programmes.”

A large part of the Company’s mission statement is to collaborate with its clients, and that is where at present it feels it excels in all of its projects as a service provider.

“We collaborate with our clients to establish what it is they want, what they need and what they can actually afford,” states Lee. “As a company we also advise our clients if there are alternative ways of doing things, sometimes through reducing the time needed which can subsequently save money.”

High profile contracts

“At present we are running operations across several high-profile contracts across Indonesian, Cambodian, Australian, Filipino and Papua New Guinean markets,” explains Lee. “I’m incredibly proud of our operations team and their ability to service and

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I’m incredibly proud of our operations team and their ability to service and manage more than 15 projects in five different countries

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manage more than 15 projects in five different countries.”

Across these different markets, Indodrill is providing a diverse array of drilling services for both surface and underground, which include reverse circulation and diamond drilling.

However, beyond initial exploration drilling the Company is also adept with resource development, grade control, underground directional, de-watering and service holes; which are often required during mine construction or at operating mines.

“Due to the smaller size of our company, it takes a substantial amount of in-house knowledge, coordination, logistics and understanding to deliver such an array of services to so many clients,” continues Lee. “Our team are successfully doing that week-in weekout.”

Indodrill has developed a detailed service that is second-to-none when it comes to understanding the requirements of a client.

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“We are also aware of the changing trends within our industry and in terms of those specific trends, we are currently focused on unique modifications to rigs to give more options to clients,” states Lee. “This ensures that they are more versatile to work with while also allowing us to keep operating across a range of conditions and terrains.”

Business development

The Company is excited by the continued growth opportunities within the minerals sector, as well as other sectors across its regions of operation.

“We are continuing to spend considerable time on business development, which includes attending conferences, visiting clients and advertising,” continues Lee. “Alongside development in our current field of operation, we are also focusing on Europe, Middle East and Africa where there are many more opportunities for us to take advantage of.

Unique modifications address fluctuating requirements

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A team comprised of considerable experience

“We have a team that has considerable experience under their belts and are more than capable of handling a workload in those countries.”

The people operating the business are everything to it and the owners of Indodrill recognise that each member of the team is responsible in-part for its success.

“At present there is increasing pressure on hiring and retaining the right people, which is as a direct result of a shortage of skilled operators in several countries,” adds Lee. “Our approach to this situation is to hire people that we know will work well within our existing team.

“We respect and look for an individual’s experience and commitment to performing at a high level, as well as those with an understanding of what needs to be done to satisfy the requirements of our clients.”

Skilled operators

This is not always easy to find, however, through offering prospective employees the opportunity to work on challenging projects, with room for growth and rewarding prospects, there is an abundance of applicants hoping to join this innovative team.

“With the right team behind us, I believe that we will be sitting in a good position for the near future,” concludes Lee. “We hope to continue on with strong contracts, no debt and good margins available for growth opportunities in existing and new jurisdictions.

“It’s certainly exciting times for Indodrill, with an ever-increasing amount of activity being seen across the regions we cover. In addition to this the Company is going through a re-branding process which will see us operating under new names outside of Asia, expected to go live in the beginning of 2018.”

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The Malaco Group is focused on obtaining key partnerships to further the development of the mining industry, while maximising shareholder returns in a sustainable manner Writer: Phoebe Calver

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ore than ever it is becoming increasingly important for investors to find a sustainable business in which to make an investment, and with the help of advancing technology there is huge potential for businesses and investors to successfully collaborate.

The Malaco Group’s main objective at present is to procure and develop the profitability of the Company through partnerships such as those mentioned above.

At present the demand for raw commodities has been increasing, resulting in companies such as Malaco experiencing vast developments in the natural resource industry it operates within.

“The demand that is especially noticeable at present is what first attracted our attention to invest in mining and lead to the establishment of MMSB in 2004,” begins the Company on its website. “Through this development for the Group, we began to undertake mining projects in the Asia-Pacific region and focusing

especially on Malaysia and Australia.”

Following on from the successful projects the Malaco Group has undertaken over the years, it has recently welcomed new astute investors and business partners into the brand to invest in its work moving forward.

Malaco believes that in order to best achieve its corporate goals it needs to operate according to the principles of sustainable development, that is, to maintain access to capital, markets and resources, and to run profitably.

With thanks to its many years of experience within the industry, the Company has been able to formulate the following strategies to drive on its success.

“We have formulated strategies through the successful management of our mining activities that maximise profits,” explains the Company. “Throughout every stage of operations, we strive to achieve the highest standards, while also integrating socioeconomic, environmental and social considerations into every aspect of the business.”

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ustralia’s largest park owneroperator, Discovery Parks has a vast array of accommodation across 60 properties nationally. From modest beginnings in 2004 with just six parks, the Company has evolved to become a clear market leader, with an enviable business portfolio incorporating work stay, corporate and tourism holiday park accommodation.

The Company is extremely proud of its parks and their extraordinary diversity; from raw beauty in the heart of the Australian outback, relaxed waterfront living or outdoor adventure experiences within National Parks, all properties are comfortable, memorable and safe places for people of all ages and interests to enjoy.

We continue to invest in regional areas, specially designing and developing properties and training our people to go above and beyond the needs of workforce staff. Discovery Parks offer a comfortable environment with modern facilities that workers want to return to at the end of a long day.

Our workforce properties are located in specific regions, providing accommodation services where they’re most needed and can cater for small groups of 5-70 people as well as large workforces of 300+.

Housing choices include single rooms, cabins or motel style rooms and an additional mobile fleet of caravans, which are able to move between our network of parks meaning that workforce and mining camp needs can Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx be met with demand on short notice.

At Discovery Parks we’re focused on providing unique and memorable experiences for workers and we’re happy to offer specialised services upon request.

With strength in delivering exceptional customer experiences across a large national network, Discovery Parks is the reliable choice for people working away from home.

Contact Robyn Sefton E rsefton@discoveryparks.com.au www.discoveryparks.com.au

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DISCOVERY HAS YOU COVERED

DISCOVERY PARKS - ONSLOW - DINING HALL

The Discovery network is a range of WorkStay and Holiday Parks located in 60+ locations Australia wide.

Our parks offer unique solutions to accommodate the needs of travellers in and around cities as well as in regional or remote areas for both long and short stays.

We understand the unique needs and nuances of remote workforce teams and our facilities are purpose built to service groups from 5-70 people or large teams of 300 or more.

Our WorkStay team has a strong commitment to offering personal service geared specifically to the needs of people working away from home. To assist your business in managing travel expenses we customise packages that cover accommodation, all meals, laundry, gym, recreational facilities, car and heavy vehicle parking and any other particular needs.

At the end of a long work day, we know your team needs a comfortable, relaxed environment for rest and recovery.

CONSIDER US FOR:

• Outstanding recreational facilities

• Full Board Accommodation Packages

• Flexible for all team sizes

• Delicious and nutritious rolling menus with on

• Remote village management services

and off site catering available

• 60+ properties Australia wide

For more information call 1800 134 033 or visit

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Redeveloping projects

Malaco Mining Sdn. Bhd. was established in 2004, setting out with an original plan to redevelop a gold mine project in Lubuk Mandi, Rusila, which is located in the state of Terengganu. This was alongside plans to create an iron and copper mining and exploration project in the state of Pahang, Malaysia.

“We hold the rights to mining for the gold mine, which subsequently provides us with the right to recover fine gold from the old mine tailings as well as exploring, evaluating and exploiting gold and mineral resources,” adds the Company.

The aforementioned operation

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was closed in March, 2012 shortly after the mining contract expired.

The Company’s subsidiary group, Cermat Aman Sdn. Bhd. (CASB) was predominantly involved in iron and copper mining, as well as exploration activities of the Mengapur Project, located in Pehang since 2006.

“In 2012 we sold 100 percent of the equity interest to CASB, excluding the raw iron ore in the top soil which still remains ours,” continues the Company on its website. “At present we are engaged in the Mengapur Mine Oxide Iron Ore, while our shareholders remain involved in the Mount Cuthbert Copper Mine in Mount Isa, Australia, as well as Sungai Jabau Gold Mine in Pehang.”

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Strategic acquisitions

The Company has experienced highly affluent sales with thanks to its work with iron ore sales. After taking an off-take agreement with ZCM Minerals and Phoenix Lake in Pahang for the sale of raw iron ore from the Mengapur Mine, Malaco sold 7,195,387.84 tonnes of raw iron ore.

The Company adds: “At present the sale of raw iron ore is continuing at a rate of approximately 163,000 tonnes a month, totalling a gross value of RM 4.5 million.”

Continuing on with its aim to continuously find work on new projects, Malaco acquired a mining lease on 8 April, 2013. More than five

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years later work on the mine is still ongoing and is proving to be increasingly successful for the Group.

“Later on in 2013 we acquired Cape Lambert Leichhardt Pty Ltd, owners of the Mt Cuthbert copper mine located near Mt Isa in Australia,” states the Company. “This acquisition later on resulted in our name changing to Malaco Leichhardt Pty Ltd.” Many assets were gained through the purchase of the Company, including the established oxide open pit located at Mt Watson and is located only 30 kilometres north of the Leichhardt processing plant.

“There is still a huge amount of potential to be harnessed within this

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processing plant, with a proven capacity of 9,000tpa of copper metal,” affirms the Company. “Looking forward we hope to increase the scale of projects located here, including access to roads, an airstrip, dedicated electrical power, grinding circuits, copper cathode processing plant and administration offices.”

Mining exploration

One of the most exciting projects that Malaco is currently involved in is the Leichhardt Copper Project, which is located approximately 100km away from Mount Isa. “The tenement package currently covers 856km2 and is made up of 50 granted exploration, mining and water

ASIA licenses,” explains the Company on its website. “There are a further 11 applications that we are yet to look into, as well as permits that will cover 496km2.”

The Mount Cuthbert Copper Mine is historically a proven successful copper producer, which brings with it an enviable reputation when it comes to producing LME grade copper cathodes. Over the years the mine has undergone numerous expansion phases, with the biggest and most successful completed in 2015.

“When it comes to our projects moving forward, we hope to continue to discover fruitful partnerships in the mining industry,” concludes the Company.

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Our Business Water PNG strives to be a catalyst for change to actively participate in the socio-economic growth of a nation Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin

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s the primary provider of water supply and sanitation services in Papua New Guinea, Water PNG continues to serve as much more than a utilities operator; rather acknowledged as a social enabler enriching one of the most logistically challenging countries in the world.

Water PNG was initially established to rationalise the provision of water supply and sanitation in the urban areas of PNG, addressing a sector that was dangerously fragmented prior to the body’s inception back in 1987 (then called The Waterboard).

“It had a name change to PNG Waterboard and recently changed this

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to Water PNG officially 10 December, 2010 at the Gateway Hotel in Port Moresby,” the Company introduces on its website. “The corporate governance framework and policy is formulated by the Board of Directors and Management Team in accordance with the functions stipulated in the National Water Supply and Sewerage Act and Government directives.”

The Company goes on to explain the need for such an operator given the country’s climatic challenges amid a seemingly abundant supply of water. Fluctuating rain patterns and global warming has caused increasing amounts of water scarcity around the country and while water quality has never been in doubt, directing the

ASIA resource to a growing population and expanding infrastructure has been a tough task entrusted to Water PNG. “The development and distribution of clean and safe water to communities in both villages and towns are also a major issue,” the Company continues.

“To address issues relating to water resource regulation, drinking water quality standards, and regulation of operations, the Government vested various responsibilities with three institutions. These are the Department of Environment and Conservation operating under the Environment Act 2000, the Department of Health under Public Health Act, and Water PNG under National Water Supply and Sewerage Act 1986.”

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hina Jiangsu International Economic-Technical Cooperation Group Co., Ltd (CJI) was approved by the State Council in December, 1980 as a foreign trade enterprise.

Due to that fact, the Company has been granted the rights to operate foreign contracted projects, and it is able to easily obtain local labour cooperation, import and export trade, as well as foreign aid and material supply.

The Company has earned Grade-1 qualification in general contracting for housing construction projects, carrying out work on urban and rural developments over the years.

Inevitably driven by higher bodies, the Company is still allowed flexibility and autonomy in how it goes about achieving its aims and to this end has begun to make an impact courtesy of four overarching corporate values.

The first two revolve around integrity and teamwork in order to create a trusted and collaborative influence built around good governance and corporate credibility.

The third pillar incorporates customer and stakeholder satisfaction and the search for ongoing excellence.

Perhaps most significant though is value four; change and innovation.

The Company explains: “We recognise that change is constant and are therefore committed to continuous improvement and innovation, always ensuring that we inspire our people and our clients with creative solutions. We strive to be a catalyst for change to actively participate in the socio-economic growth of the nation.”

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Health and stability

Aligned with these aforementioned corporate values is a set of equally structured and adhered-to corporate goals.

These include: performing in accordance with industry benchmarks; ensuring the safe provision of safe and sustainable water and sanitation; delivering in line with national objectives; ensuring financial and commercial sustainability; promoting excellent customer service; being environmentally conscious; promoting a clean, safe, secure, peaceful and a decent work environment; and to cultivate a dynamic, healthy, competent and progressive workforce.

When all of the above fall into place, the Company is able to fulfil the objectives it has been set to complete.

From a water and sewerage systems perspective, this incorporates four main areas of concern; the water network, water quality, water treatment, and sewerage.

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As part of its work, CJI adheres to the principle of working abroad, engaged in international economic and technical cooperations. Its current development work falls into six separate sections, including overseas projects, domestic projects, city investment, engineering consultancy, labour services and international trade.

CJI has successfully set up more than 30 branches undertaking projects in more than 100 countries all over the world.

During the past 30 years of the Company’s operation, CJI has carried out more than 2,000 projects successfully with a contract value exceeding US$600.

With such a successful history in Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx the corporate sector which is still an important driving aspect for the Company, it continues to forge ahead and discover new ways to meet its unifying goal. Even in the face of the current financial difficulties and increasingly fierce international competition, CJI continues to maintain an entrepreneurial passion and fighting spirit to further develop its team and projects.

T 0086 25 83310555 E cjietcc@jinteco.com

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or 30 years, Datec has been Papua New Guinea’s leading information and communications technology (ICT) solutions and services provider.

Datec is committed to developing long-term partnerships with customers to leverage their IT investments along with strategic alliances with industry giants such as Lenovo, HP, IBM, Microsoft, Oracle, Canon, Cisco, Fortinet, Nutanix and New Horizons -to name a few.

Our alliances span the full range of ICT infrastructure, software licensing, software development, IT security and surveillance, power, internet, data centre solutions, training and education; so we can address virtually all customer requirements.

Datec’s competitive edge lies with its dedicated and talented people, with a wealth of knowledge and expertise to ensure the customer service experience is unrivalled across all catered-for sectors.

The Company details the former: “Water PNG currently operates 20 declared Water and Sewerage Districts throughout the country. The total urban population served by Water PNG is about 300,000, which represents less than six percent of the total population of the nation. The small urban population, however, represents significant cash economy, in order to ensure financial health and stability.

“Water PNG operates in major towns where operations are commercially viable and cost recovery is possible. Operations are adversely impacted by landowner interruptions, security concerns, and staff harassment. In small urban centres, operational environment is characterised by small markets, high unit costs, small capacities, and geographical remoteness.”

Water quality is thankfully a more manageable hurdle to overcome and is achieved through continuous sampling and analytical work, before being

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compounded by an Annual Drinking Water Quality Report courtesy of Water PNG. From a water treatment perspective, the Company provides more than 100 million litres of treated water each day to the residents of the 20 townships it has a presence in, drawn from local river, spring and ground water catchments.

And this inevitably overlaps with its sewerage efforts which affect seven of the aforementioned 20 provincial towns.

The Company says: “Sewerage Treatment Plants treat the sewage or used water from the towns. It comes from domestic, commercial and industrial sources. The collection, treatment and disposal of sewage are integral parts of Water PNG’s operations.”

Strategic themes

In everything that Water PNG does, people and the country are put first,

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Based in Port Moresby, and complemented by six regional sales outlets, Datec has implemented a total quality management system built around this focus on customer service and continuous quality improvement.

As an ISO 9001:2015 certified Company, Datec systematically monitors its quality through customer feedback, individual self-assessment, regular management reviews, risk bases and an annual quality assessment.

Xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx Customer satisfaction is an integral part of the way Datec conducts its business; hence we work to improve the competitive advantage of our customers through continuous innovation. We take the time to fully understand our customers’ objectives and deliver tailored solutions and services which enable them to be agile, competitive and fully capable of meeting their business goals.

T +675 303 1333 E info@datec.com.pg

www.datec.com.pg

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leveraging a mission to think globally but act locally.

“We strive to adopt relevant international best practice, where practical, to achieve our corporate goals,” the Company affirms.

The entity also values diversity as a core strength comprised within this ethos, forming a committed, cohesive and dynamic team. Accountability is similar pivotal in gaining the country’s trust, ensuring that the State’s money is being spent wisely at all times.

And inevitably, by becoming a reputed member of the PNG society has also led to it becoming an employer of choice.

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“Water PNG Limited is committed to delivering safe water and sanitation services to the people of Papua New Guinea. As we transition into the new company, we are embracing new ways of doing business to ensure we achieve our three strategic themes: building the business; operational excellence and innovation; and delighting the customer. We are therefore seeking highly qualified, experienced, passionate and committed candidates to join our team.”

The latter point of delighting the customer has been enforced by the team that has evolved within PNG but is evidenced by its high levels

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of customer service protocol which assures and facilitates independence in equal measure.

“We pride ourselves in always striving to ensure that our services are to your expectations,” the Company states to this end.

The leading provider

As stipulated in the National Water Supply and Sewerage Act, Water PNG’s remit is to regulate all water supply and sewerage systems deemed as ‘private systems’ not operated by it.

A seemingly complex requirement admittedly, but the Company’s success in beginning to realise this long-

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term vision has been recognised on numerous occasions over the years.

As recently as 2014, the Company was named Best Performing Large Utility and Most Improved Water Utility at the Pacific Water & Waste Conference; and the progression has taken on extra impetus since then too.

A $150-200 million water plant just outside of Port Moresby is currently in the offing, complemented by a district improvement projects and involvement in a major new industrial park on the horizon.

As each of these projects come to fruition, Water PNG will edge nearer to its overriding long-term goal which is

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to “achieve 100 percent coverage of provincial towns and 85 percent of all district towns progressing to the ultimate achievement of the PNG Vision 2050”. “[Before then], our medium-term vision, by 2018, is to expand our water supply and sanitation services to two additional provincial towns and 16 district towns in PNG,” the Company adds.

And encapsulating both the short and long-term ambitions, its mission will remain to “be the leading provider of safe water supply and sanitation services in Papua New Guinea”.

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Optimising LNG in PNG Australian integrated energy specialist, Origin Energy has broadened its footprint dramatically over the past two decades, with Papua New Guinea one of the key beneficiaries of its customer and environment-first ethos Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin rigin Energy is mirroring both its Australian success and its Australian ambitions in Papua New Guinea as it looks to become a turnkey facilitator of sustainable energy across the Asia-Pacific region.

Having made its name as a leading Australian integrated energy company in the country over the past 18 years, its supply of electricity and production of natural gas has laid the foundations from which its forward-thinking goals are now beginning to flourish across the region.

For PNG specifically, LNG is among the Company’s overriding focuses, alongside a host of renewable energy prospects which Origin hopes to optimise in bringing the nation ‘out of the darkness’.

“Origin also aspires to be the number one renewables company in Australia, by empowering our customers to reduce their carbon footprint through wind, solar and storage technology,” the Company affirms and adds on its website.

The journey to this current position of power began back in 2000 when Boral shareholders - a US-based organisation

- approved the demerger of its energy business from the building and construction materials side. The resultant birth of Origin Energy has since gone on to make an impact on a global scale, with Australia at its heart.

“In 2012, we secured our largest ever wind power purchase agreement underpinning the development of Trustpower’s Snowtown II Wind Farm in South Australia,” the Company continues. “[Later], the $24.7 billion Australia Pacific LNG project commenced in 2015, with the first cargo of liquefied natural gas shipped in January, 2016.”

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Epitomising both the scale of the business at this point, as well as its diversification ambitions, such operations are now synonymous with the Origin Energy brand across Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Kenya, Fiji, and of course Papua New Guinea.

Now comprising seven branches across the latter where sales, distribution, management and R&D have all become localised, the country is well on its way to witnessing the long-term benefits that Origin Energy will bring.

Renewable energy

Inevitably, Port Moresby serves as primary host to the Company in PNG as a significant regional hub, and is backedup by a presence point in Purari Wabo.

From here, Origin Energy is evaluating the potential for a hydroelectric development through

PNG Energy Developments Limited; a 50-50 joint venture between Origin and PNG Sustainable Development Programme Limited.

Initially, the aforementioned focus of LNG dominated the Company’s plans for PNG but already the same diversification that has occurred in Australia is being seen in the South Pacific country.

Senior Management has alluded to a desire to “bring to light” a PNG that is “still in the dark” and lacking sufficient power. In fact, as much as 85 percent of the country is still affected by this shortfall, making Origin’s task vast but potentially lucrative.

Investments into solar options have therefore already begun compounding the Company’s LPG efforts, and it won’t be long until the remainder of its core services join the fray.

“Exploration and production is the first thing we do,” the Company explains. “We explore below the land and ocean beds looking for natural gas reserves. And once we find gas, we plan the safest way to extract it so we can then develop and deliver it to our customers.”

Gas production naturally follows on, and a plethora of wholesalers, stores and end users are already benefiting from this offering in PNG. ‘Generation’ then forms the second facet, as the business continues: “We’re the largest owner of natural gas-fired power stations in Australia.

We also produce power from coal, wind, pumped water storage, solar and cogeneration plants. “[Renewable energy is the third service area] and every day we provide a range of renewable energy

“We’re really proud that we are one of Australia’s leading energy companies selling energy to Australian homes, businesses and industrial customers.”

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options to hundreds of thousands of Australians. Since our company formed in 2000, we’ve made huge investments in wind, geothermal, hydropower and solar technologies, both in Australia and overseas. And while some of these technologies are yet to prove commercially viable, we’re definitely not giving up. In fact, growing our position in renewable energy is one of our major priorities.”

Lighting up the dark

Origin can now boast more than a decade of experience in the renewables domain, ensuring experience and expertise needed to recreate similarly successful initiatives in new jurisdictions.

And the final aim to signify that all of the pieces of the puzzle have come together will be to replicate its energy sales remit in PNG. “We’re really proud that we are one of Australia’s leading energy companies selling energy to Australian

homes, businesses and industrial customers,” the Company affirms.

Once this comes to fruition, locals can look forward to a customer-first approach that comprises flexible payment options, technological sensitivity and astuteness, marketleading customer service, and an unrivalled knowledge of the local consumer environment.

And perhaps even more significantly, Origin Energy will contribute extensively to a much longer-term benefit in the form of ecological responsibility and safeguarding the wider sustainability of the country through its carbon commitments.

“Origin was the first energy company in the world to sign up to seven initiatives under the global ‘We Mean Business’ coalition,” the Company details. “The collation is a worldwide group of companies, institutional investors and nongovernment organisations committed

to leadership on climate change.”

Progress as part of this coalition is defined by seven poignant parameters, which are already being driven in Australia and will now be implemented - through Origin - across Papua New Guinea.

Climate change monitoring; responsible corporate engagement; emission reduction targets; carbon cost assessments; renewable energy success; climate pollutant reductions; and the removal of commodity-driven deforestation across supply chains are already contributing to Origin’s goal of becoming Australia’s leading renewable and low-carbon energy provider.

And as the business now looks to increase grid reach by 10 percent in PNG over the next five years, it won’t be long until the same drivers are making an impact on a broader scale; ultimately making power more affordable and accessible, and “lighting up the dark” in Papua New Guinea.

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The international platform for Japan’s LNG and gas players

Event Details WHEN: 6-7 February, 2018 WHERE: Hilton Tokyo Odaiba, Tokyo, Japan CONTACT: JapanLNG@thecwcgroup.com WEBSITE: cwcjapanlng.com

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THE INAUGURAL CWC Japan LNG & Gas Summit, taking place from 6-7 February, 2018 in Tokyo, is the commercially focused forum for the LNG industry, with support and participation from JERA, Tokyo Gas, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ).

The Summit will address the impact of the end of destination clauses by the Japanese Fair Trade Commission (JFTC), how deregulation of the gas and power market could open opportunities for businesses and will explore the new investment opportunities for Japanese and internationals in Southeast Asia.

The event will bring together key Japanese LNG decision makers, METI representatives, international

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suppliers and global traders to benefit from valuable networking opportunities and to discuss Japan’s future role in the global gas market.

“The conference will be a great opportunity to discuss the dynamism of the Japanese LNG market and also explore new business opportunities around Asia,” commented Kentaro Kimoto, Chief Executive, Gas Resources & Energy, Tokyo Gas. For further details on high-level speakers and session topics, please visit cwcjapanlng.com/programme.

To find out more about participating at the event, please contact Tyler Forbes or Elliott McGinn on +44 20 7978 0000 or email: JapanLNG@thecwcgroup.com

C 5 ’ S LO N G T E R M G A S S U P P LY C O N T R A C T S : A S I A

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The only event in Asia focused on successfully negotiating and renegotiating long-term gas supply contracts

Event Details WHEN: 27-28 February, 2018 WHERE: Sofitel City Centre, Singapore CONTACT: Marketing@C5-Online.com WEBSITE: www.C5-Online.com/GasAsia

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to renegotiate more favourable terms for their long-term contracts with their suppliers.

What’s new for 2018?

• Destination Clauses are no more in Japan. Will the rest of Asia follow suit? Hear directly from METI, and gain perspectives from industry and legal experts to prepare for the ramifications of the end of destination clauses • Hear from industry experts on the optimising the use of flexibility LAST YEAR’S INAUGURAL provisions within individual contracts congress built upon the highly • Engage in pragmatic discussions successful European Congress with industry leaders on navigating the relationship between LNG price following market demand. C5 are back in 2018 for a new and improved and supply • The LNG market is undergoing a Long Term Gas Supply Contracts: Asia congress. global transformation as LNG supply The second LTG Asia Congress comes has expanded rapidly: Get expert insight into how the market has at a crucial time as the LNG market undergoes a global transformation, changed and forecasting what is coming next with supply expanding rapidly.

The linkage to oil in long-term LNG contracts in Asia has meant that gas Please contact Marketing@C5Online.com for more information on prices are generally much higher than reserving your place. those in other parts of the world, leading to serious doubts about the All Asia Outlook readers are eligible sustainability of this pricing model. As for an exclusive 15 percent discount off spot markets and alternative sources C5’s Long Term Gas Supply Contracts: of supply develop further in the region, Asia conference when quoting D15gas purchasers in Asia are now looking 999-OUTLK18 registration.

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New for 2018: • Destination Clauses are no more in Japan. Will the rest of Asia follow suit? – Hear directly from METI, and gain perspectives from industry and legal experts to prepare for the ramifications of the end of Destination clauses • Hear from industry experts on the optimising the use of flexibility provisions within individual contracts

• Engage in pragmatic discussions with industry leaders on navigating the relationship between LNG price and supply • The LNG market is undergoing a global transformation as LNG supply has expanded rapidly – Get expert insight into how the market has changed and forecasting what is coming next

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C5 Energy: Legal, Regulatory and Compliance Experts

ASIA WAREHOUSING SHOW

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Co-located alongside Material Handling Equipment Expo Asia, e-commerce Logistics Show and Supply Chain Asia Zone

Event Details WHEN: 7-9 March, 2018 WHERE: BITEC, Bangna, Bangkok, Thailand CONTACT: prashant@manchcommunications.com

WEBSITE: www.AsiaWarehousingShow.com

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3RD ASIA WAREHOUSING Show (AWS) is an annual exhibition and meeting place where professionals from warehousing, material handling, storage, AIDC, intralogistics, supply chain, transport & logistics industries meet buyers from various end-user industries.

Taking place from 7-9 March, 2018 the exhibition will feature the Asia Warehousing Summit and will be colocated alongside Material Handling Equipment Expo Asia, e-commerce Logistics Show and Supply Chain Asia Zone.

Innovative and energy-saving solutions ranging from forklifts and industrial equipments; fully automated conveyor systems; shelving and warehousing systems; the latest

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developments in IT; and solutions across warehousing solutions, distribution centres, logistics and supply chain requirements can be found at Asia Warehousing Show.

Material Handling Equipment Expo Asia (MHE Asia) aims to bring material handling equipment manufacturers to showcase and demonstrate new technological equipments used throughout the process of manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal by any user industry.

E-Commerce Logistics Show concurrently taking place with Asia Warehousing Show is focusing on IT solutions, in-house solutions and freight transport systems. The trade show will vividly cover e-retail supply chain, postal services and logistics providers.

Supply Chain Zone (SCZ) will include leading 3PL, 4PL, logistics parks and warehousing companies exhibiting their services at the show. This will significantly attract professionals from the end-user segments who are interested in these services.

Heads across warehousing, supply chain, logistics, commercial, procurement, food & drink, FMCG, pharmaceuticals, automotive, retail, engineering, paints, transport, ports, railways, terminals & airlines, government departments, trade bodies and associations will all be in attendance.

A two-day concurrent conference will also take place on 7-8 March, 2018.

LAST MILE FULFILMENT ASIA

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15-16 March, 2018 in Singapore. As ASEAN continues its push in the digital economy, Last Mile Fulfilment Asia will connect the online and offline retail, to parcel and logistics, and post-click ecommerce technology industries through ‘glocalised’ fulfilment.

Let 2018 be the year of possibilities and change. Adapt your businesses to maximise the prospects brought forth by ecommerce and find the opportunities during these challenging times for traditional retail.

Join more than 100 speakers, 2,500 attendees and 100 exhibitors from across the retail, ecommerce, parcel and logistics industries at this industry platform today.

At the LMFAsia 2018 conference, expect thought-provoking keynotes, interactive sessions and insightful presentations by the leading retailers, brands and key stakeholders in the fulfilment industry. This is where you can gain access to industry insights and trends from APAC, and find new innovations happening in the industry. The conference will focus on globalisation 4.0 and the strategies you can take to drive retail efficiency FIRST LAUNCHED IN 2015, Last and an omni-channel experience from Mile Fulfilment Asia (LMFAsia) was brick-and-mortar, in-store, to online, to warehouse. There will be hotbeds conceptualised by SingEx Exhibitions to provide a platform for the fulfilment on urban logistics, green logistics and industry to meet the last mile fulfilment customs and taxation insights into challenges of retailers and ecommerce Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Korea and China. companies in Asia.

The LMFAsia 2018 exhibition Last Mile Fulfilment Asia is the only will showcase more than 100 new Asian conference and exhibition to companies from retail and marketplace, curate an ecosystem-based platform to parcel and logistics. There will be new for seamless cross-border last mile demo zone to try out the latest material fulfilment in Asia. LMFAsia brings handling equipment and warehousing together retailers, ecommerce, parcel solutions; a Retail and Marketplace and logistics companies worldwide Pavilion (RAMP!) that hosts popular to connect, explore business B2B2C retail and marketplace opportunities and collaborate in Asia. companies and their product offerings; Themed as “Go Global. Deliver and a showcase of the most innovative Local”, the 4th annual Last Mile start-up companies in the Asia region.

Fulfilment Asia will happen from

Go global, deliver local.

Let 2018 be the year of possibilities and change

Event Details WHEN: 15-16 March, 2018 WHERE: Singapore EXPO, Singapore WEBSITE: www.lmfasia.com

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EARLY-BIRD RATES

SAVE 20%

when you sign up for 2-day conference tickets by 31 Jan 2018

FREE ADMISSION for Trade Visitors.

Register Now!

15 – 16 March 2018 Singapore EXPO

Go Global. Deliver Local.

Asia’s Largest Conference & Exhibition for Retail, eCommerce, Logistics and Parcel Industries

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Key Highlights 100 speakers, 4 tracks, 2 Roundtables 100 exhibitors & 3,500 sqm 2,500 professionals NEW Demo Zone on material handling equipment and warehousing solutions

NEW Retail and Marketplace Pavilion FREE eCommerce Seminars 5 Workshops on taxation, B2B eCommerce, cross-border shipping…and more

Stand A Chance To Win A Free Trip To LMFAsia 2018!

Register Now or Nominate a Colleague for Hosted Visitor Programme.

Join us #LMFAsia #LMFConnect @LMFAsia Last Mile Fulfilment Asia Group Last Mile Fulfilment Asia

www.lmfasia.com

IoT ASIA 2018

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Connecting you to collaboration and partnership opportunities in Asia FOR THE PAST four years, IoT Asia has been at the forefront of bringing global collaboration and partnership opportunities to governments, businesses and communities in Asia.

IoT Asia is an award-winning stage that

Event Details WHEN: 21-22 March, 2018 WHERE: Hall 3, Singapore EXPO, Singapore WEBSITE: www.internetofthingsasia.com

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brings together technology heads, design architects, solution architects, engineers, academic institutions, investors and start-ups to assess the latest trends and partnership models in Asia.

Featuring a 6,000 square metre exhibition multi-track though provoking conferences and community--driven seminars, IoT Asia 2018 will put the spotlight on the following key areas critical to the development of IoT in Asia: • Smart cities • Industrial IoT • IoT data analytics • Enablers

What to Expect at IoT Asia 2018?

• 6000-plus senior executives • 500-plus exhibitor products • 100-plus speakers • 30-plus networking & interactive hours • 25-plusseminars at TechSpace • Three track conferences • One site tour

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IoT Asia has earned worldwide recognition through our successes at a wide range of global and local competitions as a widely acclaimed event in the industry. It was awarded: • UFI Marketing Award in 2016 • People’s Choice Silver Award for Event of the Year in Postscape’s 2015/2016 IoT Awards • Trade Conference Organiser of the Year for IoT Asia 2014 at Singapore Experience Awards 2015 • The only Asian finalist for the Event of the Year category in Postscape’s 2014/2015 IoT awards There is a promo code of 15 percent discount exclusively for Asia Outlook’s members: IOT18MPAO15. Please note that early bird rates end on 31 January, 2018 before prices increase to standard rates.

The form will close on 22 March, 2018.

Make a positive difference to your business. Join us at IoT Asia 2018 on 21-22 March. Register online now at http://www.internetofthingsasia.com/ registration!

www.internetofthingsasia.com

#iotasia