by Ferry Bayu | Mar 15, 2024 | Business
FITOKIO is a fitness studio located in Bangsar that offers personal training and group classes. Recently, we embarked on an unexpected collaboration with an elder care facility.
At the end of February, the staff of FITOKIO visited My Aged Care in PJ Old Town to donate the towels we typically use in our studio. What started as a simple idea to repurpose our old towels turned into a heartwarming experience as we witnessed the joy and gratitude within our community.
My Aged Care is a nursing and retirement home that provides services for elderly individuals with various conditions, ranging from fully mobile to critically ill patients. The facility is staffed by dedicated caregivers and in-house doctors, ensuring round-the-clock care, with an ambulance on standby for emergencies.
Residents enjoy six meals a day and experience fewer restrictions on their activities, prioritizing their mental well-being. There are four branches in total, each accommodating approximately 25 residents or patients.
During our visit to the PJ branch, we had the opportunity to meet the residents during their teatime and personally deliver our donated towels.
Interacting with the residents was a touching experience. We shared stories, laughter, and genuine connections, witnessing the impact of our gesture firsthand.
Many expressed gratitude for the simple act of kindness, emphasizing how it brightened their day. My Aged Care’s General Manager, Ms. Lisa, aptly described the facility with three words: Love, Compassion, and Care.
These words epitomize the ethos of My Aged Care, reflecting their unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of the elderly.
Reflecting on our visit, it’s evident that initiatives like this, where communities unite to support one another, hold immense significance.
It’s not just about donating; it’s about fostering connections and spreading positivity. As a fitness studio, our mission extends beyond physical health to encompass mental well-being. This initiative allowed us to bring positivity beyond our gym walls, making a meaningful impact on both the recipients and ourselves.

In conclusion, our partnership with My Aged Care underscores the power of collective action and the importance of caring for our community members, particularly those who may be more vulnerable.
We remain committed to seeking out opportunities to make a positive difference and nurture a sense of belonging for all.
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My Aged Care: https://linktr.ee/myagedcare
Ms. Lisa (GM): +60 17-851 7500
Writer: Zoe Horikawa
by Ferry Bayu | Mar 14, 2024 | Business
FITOKIO is a premium mind-body fitness gym/studio in Japan, located in Bangsar, KL. We offer a relaxing sanctuary to help you, as our guest, regain your true colors with Omotenashi (Japanese-style hospitality) service. We take special care in maintaining a clean and safe environment to Japanese standards by disinfecting all areas after every use and ventilation throughout to ensure fresh air at all times.
Hot LAVA Studio
We’d love for people in Malaysia to experience our luxurious facilities, especially our original hot lava stone studio class, which is the first and only one in Malaysia.

Benefits of LAVA stone
Our lave stone floor contains more than 30 types of minerals that is heated up to 38℃ to promote detox from within. You will feel like you just came out of a Japanese hot spring after just one session.
LED light therapy and Infrared rays
LED light therapy helps to relieve pain and morning stiffness in people with arthritis and improves joint health in people with osteoporosis. Infrared rays help to improve circulation, lower the side effects of diabetes and weight loss, boost the immune system, and lower blood pressure.
Varieties of classes
We also have many varieties of classes available. We have multiple yoga classes, Pilates, barre, Tabata sweat, HIIT, Zumba, and more!
Personal Training
We also have private personal training in FITOKIO.

Customized plans
We provide the best training plan to customers based on their health, condition, and fitness goals.
Experienced Trainers
We have experienced Japanese and local personal trainers. We also have a nutrition program to support their diet as well.
Private luxury gym
Unlike other general fitness gyms, we provide personal training in a private space with luxurious facilities (Max 3 people per slot). We want to bring our Japanese expertise to benefit you. If you are interested, we offer free counseling for personal training and one free trial class for Lava Studio, so feel free to contact us!
by Ferry Bayu | Mar 13, 2024 | Business
Magnet Security & Automation Sdn Bhd (MAG), a leading provider of security and automation solutions, celebrated a historic milestone today as they were officially recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records for selling the Most Barrier Gates in a Year.
The award ceremony was presented by Dato Seri Dr. Micheal Tio, CEO of Malaysia Book of Records, and was witnessed by MAG’s top dealers and staff, whose hard work had collectively contributed to the achievement.
In his address, the CEO of MAG, Jimmy Low emphasized the values of dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence that underpin the company’s success. He expressed gratitude to the entire MAG team and dedicated dealers, whose unwavering commitment and tireless efforts contributed to the record-breaking feat.
Low also highlighted the significance of the achievement beyond mere numbers, emphasizing its real-world impact on enhancing safety and security for end-users. He credited the collective efforts of the team and the trust bestowed upon MAG by its customers for this remarkable milestone.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by the pandemic 3 years ago, MAG successfully navigated through this difficult period without sacrificing performance, and even rewarded its team members with bonuses. Low expressed confidence in the team’s ability to build upon this success to further grow and strengthen its presence in 13 countries including Philippines, Indonesia and Australia. MAG is looking to expand its international market presence this year, leveraging the weak ringgit for an advantage.
MAG’s vision extends beyond this accolade, with aspirations to become a leading security and automation solution provider in Southeast Asia. With a comprehensive range of software and hardware products, MAG is uniquely positioned to deliver secure and seamless building experiences, ensuring peace of mind for customers.
For more information about MAG and its range of security and automation solutions, please visit mag.com.my.
by Ferry Bayu | Mar 12, 2024 | Business
BUTLER Shop has collaborated with THEWEBABY to craft the ‘By The Lake’ Luxe Pillow, combining nature’s serenity with home comfort. This eco-friendly pillow, adorned with hand-drawn wildlife, is made from 95% natural bamboo and 5% spandex, ensuring softness, durability, and hypoallergenic properties. Available at butlershop.art for $65.00, it’s designed for all ages, particularly those with sensitive skin. The product is available at butlershop.art.
BUTLER Shop, in its latest collaboration with THEWEBABY, proudly presents the ‘By The Lake’ Luxe Pillow, a masterpiece that fuses the tranquillity of nature with unparalleled home comfort. This unique offering emerged from a vibrant design fair, where the alignment of BUTLER Shop’s commitment to exceptional quality met with THEWEBABY’s renowned bamboo fabric wear, recognized for its eco-friendly benefits and superior feel. 
At the heart of this collaboration is a product that not only showcases exquisite craftsmanship but also symbolises a commitment to sustainable quality. Adorned with hand-drawn illustrations of forest wildlife, the ‘By The Lake’ Luxe Pillow transforms each piece into a work of art that invites the serene essence of the outdoors into your home. The choice of materials, 95% natural bamboo and 5% spandex, ensures the pillow not only offers unmatched softness but is also designed to be antibacterial and hypoallergenic, making it perfect for users of all ages, especially those with delicate, sensitive skin. This dedication to premium quality and comfort is something Ting Hui Ng, Head of Products at BUTLER Shop, highlights, “It’s more than just a pillow; it’s a gateway to tranquillity and a tactile experience of nature’s beauty.”

Designed to harmonise with any setting, from a cosy reading nook to an elegant living room or a tranquil bedroom, the pillow, measuring 23 cm in width and 53 cm in length, enriches spaces with a touch of nature’s elegance. Its remarkable softness coupled with its eco-friendly nature reflects BUTLER Shop’s vision of blending comfort with ecological integrity. Ting Hui Ng reflects, “I eagerly anticipate our customers experiencing the deep sense of peace and comfort when they first hold their pillow, offering not just restful sleep but also a delightful retreat from daily life.”
Available for $65.00 at butlershop.art, the ‘By The Lake’ Luxe Pillow represents a forward step in integrating art, comfort, and sustainability into home essentials. This launch is an invitation to explore BUTLER Shop’s curated collection, which includes premium dinnerware, the Classic TENCEL™ bedding set, and an exquisite Reed Diffuser, each designed to elevate living spaces with elegance and a connection to the natural world.
Looking to the future, Ting Hui Ng shares, “I envision BUTLER Shop expanding further, innovating and creating products that exceed our customers’ expectations for quality and eco-consciousness. We aim to reinforce our position as leaders in marrying refined living with environmental responsibility, transforming everyday experiences into enriched living.”
A member of the esteemed BUTLER family, BUTLER Shop was launched in late 2019 to address the market’s need for high-quality, yet accessible home essentials. Known for its unique and exclusive designs, BUTLER Shop is dedicated to elevating everyday living with products that blend exceptional quality, thoughtful design, and accessibility.
For more information on the ‘By The Lake’ Luxe Pillow and to discover the full range of BUTLER Shop’s offerings, visit butlershop.art. Take this opportunity to introduce elegance, comfort, and the essence of serene living into your home.
by Ferry Bayu | Mar 12, 2024 | Business
The Malaysian tech team – MYCRS, known for their pivotal role in addressing the concrete test fraud issue in the Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge Mega Project, has returned home to launch their startup. Their objective is to assist Malaysian authorities and industries in advancing domestic quality justice through enhanced transparency and traceability, providing a sense of reassurance and confidence to all stakeholders.
In today’s world, homes play a vital role in the lives of individuals. Purchasing a home often represents a significant investment of a lifetime’s savings and embodies the dreams of many families. However, ensuring the quality of homes during construction, minimizing safety risks, and protecting consumer rights are crucial considerations. A robust quality control system is essential in achieving these objectives.
MYCRS, a Malaysian technology startup, stands out in the global construction industry with its unique approach. It leverages IoT and RFID-supported tools to address a critical issue—ensuring concrete quality. Unlike other solutions, MYCRS tracks each cement sample’s journey from liquid to solid state and monitors the entire engineering testing process using RFID tracking chips. This comprehensive approach ensures the highest level of quality control, providing users with accurate, tamper-proof, and error-free outputs that comply with British Standards.
MYCRS addresses this challenge by tracking each cement sample’s journey from liquid to solid state and monitoring the entire engineering testing process using RFID tracking chips. Through scanning, testing, and monitoring, MYCRS compiles captured readings into engineering data that is compliant with British Standards, providing users with accurate, tamper-proof, and error-free outputs. This not only enhances testing efficiency but also provides vital evidence for post-engineering liability tracing.
Initially developed for the Hong Kong railway and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge projects, MYCRS has expanded its reach to cover all major construction projects in Hong Kong and has been adopted by the Singapore government for Housing Development Board (HDB) construction. It is the world’s first and only technology solution provider validated by the official engineering departments of two regions for its practicality, quality, and stability.
Over the past five years, MYCRS has remained steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the lives and assets of millions of consumers overseas. Now, it aims to promote and innovate its technology back in Malaysia & Southeast Asia, supporting regulatory agencies in enhancing concrete testing supervision and ensuring the stability of every home for homebuyers. MYCRS’s unwavering commitment to safety and quality ensures that every homebuyer can feel secure and protected.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Mar 11, 2024 | Events
The 6th edition of the HATCH exhibit debuts at The Manila Hotel, promising to inspire fresh creativity within the iconic spaces of the Grand Dame. Notably, this year’s exhibit features the participation of the inimitable National Artist of the Philippines for Film, Kidlat Tahimik.

Ang Pagsilang ng Indio – Genius ni Kuya Pepe by Kidlat Tahimik
“It’s a challenge I’ve never done before, mangitlog (lay an egg), pero (but) why not? This octogenarian would like to remain innovative, even in his twilight years. So roll out your MB egg up to Baguio – and let’s see how my fantasy fertilizes this egg,” Kidlat shared via email correspondence when invited to join this year’s HATCH.
HATCH challenges Filipino artists to unleash their talent on an unexpected canvas – a fiberglass egg. Past editions have seen these eggs transformed into whimsical, exotic, and even profound art pieces. Artists use everyday materials infused into the egg, turning them into masterpieces.
More than just an exhibit, HATCH is a platform for established and emerging artists to experiment, pushing their artistic boundaries. Expect diverse styles, innovative installations, and thought-provoking pieces that spark conversation and appreciation for Filipino art.
Beyond the gallery walls, HATCH fosters a vibrant community, connecting artists, art fans, and the public, offering a unique perspective on Filipino creativity.
A new generation of “egg-cited” artists has devoted their time, talent, and skills to showcase the creative genius of the Filipino mind. Featured artists include National Artist of the Philippines for film Kidlat Tahimik, Marcel Antonio, Melai Arguzon, Andre Chan, Elaine Clemente, Katrina Cuenca, Sean Go, Julie Lluch, Marlon Magbanua, Glenn Martinez, Dennis Montera, Bea Policarpio, Joel Reglos, Maxine Syjuco, Herminio Tan, Valerie Teng, and Manila City Vice Mayor John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto.
HATCH 6th Edition is on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel from March 8 to April 7, 2024. Admission is free.
About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins, and is within walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele.
Since 1912, The Manila Hotel continuously provided the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and the Manila Hotel Health Club.
The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery that offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists.
It has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila — it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Mar 9, 2024 | Events
The Manila Hotel invites families to an outer space adventure with Easter Eggspedition, a cosmic event that promises a day brimming with joy, excitement, and unforgettable memories for all. Blasting off at the Fiesta Pavilion on March 31, 2024, from 1 pm to 5 pm, Easter Eggspedition offers an array of activities such as bouncy castles, face painting, cupcake making, arts and crafts, magic show, balloon twisting, interactive storytelling, popcorn and candy floss stations, and more.
No Easter celebration is complete without the traditional Easter egg hunt. Each child will be provided with an Easter basket to fill with eggs scattered across the designated hunting area. Each discovered egg reveals special treats and corresponds to unique prizes.
A fee of ₱1,888 grants admission for one (1) adult aged 13 years old and above and one (1) child aged 12 years old and below. This all-inclusive pass ensures access to the festivities, creating an Easter experience that is out of this world.
The Manila Hotel’s Easter Room Offer

For those looking to extend the adventure, The Manila Hotel offers an exclusive room package for ₱10,000 net that includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe room, breakfast buffet for two (2) persons at Café Ilang-Ilang, and two (2) tickets to Easter Eggspedition. The booking period is from March 6 to 30, 2024, and the stay dates are March 30 and 31, 2024. Terms and conditions apply.
Easter Mystery Egg Early Bird Offer

Crafted from premium Belgian chocolate, the Easter Mystery Egg is a giant hand-made egg designed for both children and adults to delight in as they crack it open, revealing the delightful surprises hidden within. With its regular price slashed from ₱1,580 down to ₱1,106 – this limited-time promotion offers a generous 30% discount for orders placed until March 20, 2024. Orders can be picked up starting March 21, 2024.
Easter Treats at the Delicatessen
Whether seeking the perfect gift or simply yearning for delectable goodies, the Easter treats at the Delicatessen cater to a diverse range of tastes. From artisanal chocolates to intricately crafted confections, there is something for everyone to savor during the Easter holiday. Available from March 15 to April 1, 2024.
For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500 or email in**@************el.com.
About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins, and is within walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel is the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele.
Since 1912, The Manila Hotel has continuously provided the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three (3) ballrooms. The hotel also offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and Manila Hotel Health Club.
The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery that offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through different artists’ objective points of view.
It has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang, which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila — it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
by Ferry Bayu | Mar 8, 2024 | Business
Secha Home, a company focusing on innovative solutions for renovating pre-owned homes, has announced a strategic partnership with MRP Premier Group to expand market penetration in the Indonesian property sector. The primary objective is to integrate digital ecosystems and government projects in the Far East region.
SECHA HOME, an Antler-venture backed, specializing in innovative solutions for renovating pre-owned homes, announces a strategic partnership with MRP Premier Group to expand its foothold in the Indonesian property sector. In this dynamic alliance, SECHA leverages its operational license in Indonesia alongside MRP Premier Group’s extensive experience in global real estate. The primary objective of this partnership is to amplify their presence in the Far East region by seamlessly integrating digital ecosystems and government initiatives.
Furthermore, this collaboration entails meaningful dialogues with
governmental figures through the esteemed SSI X network, a pioneering
initiative by The Ministry of Communication and Technology (‘Kominfo’) that
provides a platform for collaborators to actively engage in the nurturing of
founders and digital startups. This ensures that their endeavours not only
align with existing regulations but also address crucial social needs in
Indonesia, hastening the realization of sustainable housing projects.
Josephine Lovensa, Founder & CEO of SECHA HOME, expresses
her enthusiasm, stating, “Through this strategic partnership, SECHA
envisions to exploring collaborative opportunities with SSI X, amalgamating the
prowess of digital startups with government-backed projects. We firmly believe
that by synergizing our strengths, we can pioneer innovation within the
Indonesian property industry, delivering unparalleled value to our
stakeholders.”
This venture signifies not
only a commitment to transforming the Indonesian housing market but also opens
exciting possibilities for growth and innovation in the United Kingdom’s real estate market, particularly within the
capital London. Through this collaboration, the entities aim to set new
standards for sustainable and accessible real estate solutions, driving
positive change in both the Indonesian and UK housing markets.
In their flagship endeavour,
SECHA and MRP Premier Group are pioneering the launch of a ground-breaking
Sharia-compliant property investment platform. This innovative initiative aims
to democratize real estate investment by utilising crowdfunding models, making
it accessible to a wider audience.
Notably, this platform will
adhere to Sharia principles, ensuring compliance with Islamic finance
regulations. Moreover, it will facilitate cross-border investment
opportunities, enabling investors to participate in the real estate markets of
both Indonesia and the United Kingdom. This strategic move enhances the
platform’s appeal, providing a unique and inclusive avenue for investors to
engage in ethical, Sharia-compliant real estate ventures across diverse
markets.
Mohammed Parekh, Managing
Director of MRP Premier Group, concludes, “The
strategic partnership between SECHA and MRP Premier Group marks not just an
expansion of our business footprint into the exciting real estate market of
Indonesia, but a reaffirmation of our
shared commitment to enhancing the quality of life through innovative and
sustainable property solutions. This collaboration propels us to redefine
property investment, fostering inclusivity with a Sharia-compliant platform
that ensures equitable access and ethical investment opportunities for
all.”
by Ferry Bayu | Mar 8, 2024 | Business
In celebration of National Women’s Month, Mama’s Choice launches the “Buy 1, Give 1” campaign, an initiative to make a difference in the lives of pregnant mamas and newborns in crisis.
Mama’s Choice, a leading brand in Southeast Asia for safe, effective, and natural products for mamas and babies with a 200,000-strong community in the Philippines, proudly announces the launch of its “Buy 1, Give 1” campaign in line with National Women’s Month this March and International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024.
During the entire month of March, Mama’s Choice will donate one Mama’s Choice Stretch Mark Cream or Mama’s Choice Stretch Mark Serum for every unit sold to Grace To Be Born Maternity Home and Nursery, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing a safe and loving environment for pregnant unwed mamas and children born into challenging circumstances. Since its foundation in 2009, the Pasig-based maternity home and nursery have helped 355 families in the Philippines.
“Our collaboration with Grace To Be Born Maternity Home and Nursery is not only a way for Mama’s Choice to give back to the community, but to also give our community an opportunity to support fellow mamas in need. The ‘Buy 1, Give 1’ initiative exemplifies inclusivity by getting all pregnant mamas involved, whether as a giver or a receiver,” shares Adeline Djohan, regional head of branding for Mama’s Choice Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore.
“We deeply understand the concerns and needs of mamas and mamas-to-be. During pregnancy, a woman experiences not only many changes in her body but also the multitude of worries that go with these changes. Will her pregnancy acne go away? Will her hair grow back? Will her stretch marks fade? In fact, through our market research, we’ve found that stretch marks are the top skin problem among Filipino mamas during and after pregnancy*,” Djohan adds.
“So if we can tackle this one thing that mamas associate with negative feelings and self-consciousness, that’s one less worry for them and one big win for us as we work towards empowering mamas to achieve smooth skin and beautiful bellies throughout their pregnancies. So we thank Grace To Be Born for this magnanimous opportunity to create a meaningful impact together in our shared mission to support Filipino mamas.”

Shellie Follero, Assistant Manager for Fundraising at Grace To Be Born Maternity Home and Nursery, expresses, “We welcome mothers of various backgrounds to our home. Single mothers, homeless mothers, pregnant teens, physically and emotionally abused wives—they all come to us seeking shelter and a way to attain self-autonomy, get back on their feet, and be able to support themselves and their children. This partnership with Mama’s Choice is a beautiful initiative to remind our mothers that they are beautiful inside and out, that they are not alone, and that they deserve the love and support that the community bestows on them. We can’t wait to see the joy in the mothers’ faces when they receive the Mama’s Choice gifts from their fellow mothers!”
The “Buy 1, Give 1” initiative aligns with Mama’s Choice commitment to not only provide products for mamas and babies, but to also give back to the community and support those facing difficulties during pregnancy. By participating in the campaign, customers become a part of the collective effort to make a positive impact on the lives of pregnant mamas and newborns in crisis.
Mama’s Choice encourages everyone to participate and spread the word about this meaningful initiative. Together, we can contribute to creating a world where every mama and child receive the care and support they rightfully deserve.
For more information about Mama’s Choice and the “Buy 1, Give 1” campaign, visit mamaschoice.ph or email br***@*********ce.ph.
*Based on a 2023 Mama’s Choice Brand Survey with 801 Filipino mothers, who claimed to have experienced these skin problems during and after pregnancy: stretch marks (81% of respondents) followed by hair loss (73%) and dry and dull skin (40%)
by Ferry Bayu | Mar 8, 2024 | Business
Japan Southeast Asia Innovation Platform (JSIP) is pleased to announce a strategic collaboration with Heiwa Real Estate Co., Ltd. (Headquartered in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, CEO: Kiyoyuki Tsuchimoto, hereinafter referred to as “Heiwa Real Estate”). This partnership is aimed at fostering growth opportunities and promoting innovation among startups in Southeast Asia and Japan. Furthermore, Heiwa Real Estate will be joining JSIP as a consortium company, marking a significant step in our journey towards facilitating global startup success and innovation.
Since its inception, Heiwa Real Estate has been instrumental in nurturing startups through its serviced office ‘FinGATE,’ located in the Nihonbashi Kabutocho Kayabacho area, with a focus on emerging asset management companies and fintechs. To date, FinGATE has supported approximately 90 startup companies, demonstrating Heiwa Real Estate’s commitment to the startup ecosystem.
In this partnership, JSIP and Heiwa Real Estate will combine their networks and expertise to promote information exchange, networking, and the dissemination of knowledge. Our goal is to create unparalleled growth opportunities for startups, expand the startup market, and through innovation, address societal challenges and contribute to social development.
A notable initiative under this collaboration is the planning of a pitch event scheduled for this November. This event aims to connect venture capital from Singapore with Japanese startups and will be held in conjunction with the world’s largest fintech event, the ‘Singapore Fintech Festival,’ in Singapore. This marks a pivotal moment for both JSIP and Heiwa Real Estate in our efforts to bridge the gap between Southeast Asian and Japanese startups and the global market. ![[Ms Akika Hamakawa on the left and Mr Takaki Nakamura on the right]](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==)
◾️Background Leading to the MOU with Heiwa Real Estate
We are thrilled to forge a strategic alliance with Heiwa Real Estate Co., Ltd. in a venture that will energize and internationalize the startup ecosystem. This collaboration is rooted in the broader Nihonbashi Kabutocho & Kayabacho Revitalization Project. Heiwa Real Estate has been instrumental since 2017 with their initiative “FinGATE” – a dedicated service office fostering the growth of independent asset management companies and fintech startups.
Under the guidance of Heiwa Real Estate, “FinGATE” has become a nurturing haven for approximately 90 entities. This vibrant community includes both domestic and global asset management firms, fintech pioneers, and a host of pivotal financial and supportive organizations. Heiwa Real Estate has built a robust infrastructure offering office spaces, event venues, and exclusive networks such as the FinGATE CLUB. Their extensive support encompasses organizing educational seminars, networking events, and providing essential back-office services, all tailored to the startups’ development stages.
We are eager to collaborate with Heiwa Real Estate, leveraging our vast network and incubation know-how to enhance the international reach of homegrown startups, attract international startup companies, and cultivate a global community within “FinGATE”. This partnership is in perfect harmony with our mission to bolster startup ecosystems and enhances our combined ability to drive innovation and economic vitality on a worldwide stage.
◾️Comment from Akika Hamakawa, Deputy General Manager, Office Building Development Department
Since we began the development of “FinGATE” in 2017, we have been working to ensure that the Nihonbashi Kabutocho and Kayabacho area can play its part in making Tokyo an international financial city. It is a great honor and an exciting opportunity to collaborate with JSIP, which has a network with startup stakeholders in Southeast Asia.
◾️Comment from Takaki Nakamura, JSIP Founding Member
Since the launch of JSIP in 2021, we have felt the increasing daily need for cross-border business expansion between Japan and Southeast Asia. We are very pleased that the foundation for further boosting startups in Japan and Southeast Asia through cooperation between Heiwa Real Estate and JSIP will be strengthened. Furthermore, by combining our networks, we will further support the growth of startups in both Japan and Southeast Asia.
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