by Penny Angeles-Tan | Dec 18, 2023 | Yummy Reviews
A few days ago, I had the pleasure of sampling some of the scrumptious dishes served for lunch at the
Marcelino Cafe located at the Manila Prince Hotel. I know what you are thinking … just another buffet, right? This is not a unique concept for hotel restaurants but is definitely a crowd-pleaser. After all, who doesn’t like value for money?
Exploring the buffet revealed a predominantly Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Filipino options, with a sprinkling of Mediterranean and Italian dishes. At every table, I saw a dish I would definitely like to try. However, I must confess that what immediately caught my eye were what I like to call the “fun buns,” which were shaped like a pig and a mushroom.
The pig was filled with custard, making it a dessert bun, while the mushroom contained sautéed mushrooms in a savory sauce. Of the two, I enjoyed the mushroom more. The bread of the buns tastes just like mantou. To be honest, there was nothing wrong with the pigs except for failed expectations, since I expected the inside to resemble the outside. That aside, the custard was okay. If the buns were warm, the filling would have been gooey, which would have been perfect.
The buffet table on its left had four dishes, and the one that caught my eye was the beef caldereta; I knew my vow to myself not to eat rice was getting thrown out the window. In my opinion, it is impossible to eat caldereta without pairing it with a generous serving of rice. Then, on the far side of the table, where the buns were, there were beancurd rolls, and that was it. I told myself that I didn’t need to see the rest of the buffet, lol!
That being said, I knew I still had to explore the rest of the buffet. More food choices are available on the left side, near the window overlooking the street, and in the “al fresco” area located near the hotel lobby.
The trick to enjoying buffets is to try to avoid eating too many carbs, as they tend to fill me up quickly. I’m not always successful at it, but I make an effort to do so. I helped myself to the dishes that caught my eye or made my mouth water. In my youth, I would probably have sampled everything, but nowadays, unless I want to look like a Goodyear Blimp, I have to pick and choose. Moderation is key.
I must confess, though, that it took a lot for me not to get more than two pieces of the deviled eggs. I LOVE deviled eggs!
The saying “save the best for last” must have something to do with dessert because I always make sure to save space for dessert and pray for a good selection. With everything I had already eaten, I couldn’t eat as much as I wanted, but I had to try a few, especially with the chocolate fondue. I ended up trying the otap, dark chocolate bark, and pianono.
For a lunch and dinner promo rate of ₱899 per person, I think those are good selections. I, for one, could not even sample everything I wanted to. Don’t be surprised if I post again in the future that I went here again with friends. They also offer a breakfast buffet promo for ₱550 per person, ideal for those who prefer a leisurely start to their day.
Speaking of which … I was happy to bump into Tita Lally, who happened to be billeted at the Manila Prince Hotel that day. She and Tito Art were there for a staycation.
In 2024, my next food trip destination is likely to be Marcelino Cafe again. Would you like to join me? KKB!
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 18, 2023 | Business
[Kuala Lumpur, 18th Dec 2023] – In a landmark collaboration, Rentwise, a leading remanufacturer of IT equipment, and Arvato Systems, a global IT services company, unite to support The Lost Food Project. This partnership marks a significant stride in using repurposed technology to fuel social change, tackling food waste and hunger.
In a notable effort
blending corporate responsibility with technological innovation, Rentwise and
Arvato Systems have embarked on a mission to empower The Lost Food Project, a
non-profit organization dedicated to fighting food waste and hunger. This
synergy has led to the donation of over RM21,000 worth of remanufactured
laptops and desktop computers. These devices, rejuvenated to contemporary
standards, are set to revolutionize the operational capabilities of the NGO,
enhancing their efficiency in redistributing surplus food to the needy.
The Lost Food Project, known for its dedication to sustainability and community
support, stands to gain immensely from this strategic alliance. The initiative
provides the NGO with advanced tools in connectivity and communication,
courtesy of Arvato Systems’ retired laptops, which have been expertly remanufactured
by Rentwise. This technological uplift is crucial in their ongoing battle
against food scarcity and waste.
“We are excited to join forces with Arvato Systems in this meaningful
venture to bolster The Lost Food Project,” expressed Lanz, Commercial Director
at Rentwise. “Our contribution of remanufactured business computers is a step
towards enhancing the NGO’s operational effectiveness, aiding them in making a
more substantial impact in their fight against hunger and food wastage in
Malaysia.”
This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of Rentwise and Arvato
Systems to sustainable business practices and social responsibility. By
repurposing and donating IT equipment, the partnership not only sequesters an
estimated 10 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere but also demonstrates the
influential role of technology in societal betterment.
The gesture is a shining example of how collaborative efforts between
corporations and non-profit organizations can instigate significant social
change, addressing key community challenges. Rentwise and Arvato Systems
continue to be dedicated to building partnerships that yield lasting, positive
effects on society.
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 18, 2023 | Business
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/photo_2023-12-15_10-58-26.jpg" alt="From left to right: Zeny Abillera, Chief Financial Officer of PhilTech Inc.; Arnold Arbillera, Founder and CEO of PhilTech Inc.; Hon. Mohamad Faizal Jamalul, Municipal Mayor of Turtle Island, Tawi-Tawi, accompanied by his wife Mrs. Jay Sayang Jamalul, mark the commencement of RCBC’s Barangayan Banking on Turtle Island.” />
TAGUIG CITY, PHILIPPINES – The fastest growing and leading digital challenger bank Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) proudly announced its landmark initiative to extend its physical-digital or phygital barangayan banking services to the geographically isolated and disadvantaged area of Turtle Island, Tawi-Tawi, situated in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Regional Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) region. This is made possible through RCBC ATM Go, the Philippines’ first and largest network of grassroots-oriented and bank-agnostic mobile-point-of-system ATM service that covers 100% of the Philippines and has presence in all 82 provinces through its network of partner merchants.
Turtle Island is positioned at the southwestern tip of the Philippines and a brief 30-minute boat ride from Sabah, Malaysia. The 5th class municipality has historically faced challenges with its residents traveling to BARMM for banking needs, incurring costs and physical burdens. The introduction of RCBC ATM Go is the first actual deployment of a bank in the island municipality, providing digital financial services and addressing logistical and financial concerns.
RCBC ATM Go offers a suite of banking services from balance inquiry, withdrawal, intra-bank and inter-bank funds transfer, bills payments, e-loading, and opening of accounts. The digital solution will also streamline the distribution of benefits of the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), offering residents a more accessible and efficient platform for social amelioration withdrawals. Turtle Island currently has a population of 7,000 residents, with 3,000 beneficiaries under the 4Ps program.
RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva emphasized the bank’s intention to expand its services in every city and municipality in the country. He also expressed gratitude for Municipal Mayor Mohamad Faizal Jamalul’s all out support for RCBC Barangayan Banking, the institution’s award-winning financial inclusion campaign.
“We thank Mayor Jamalul for sharing our vision of making banking available to all. Through RCBC ATM Go, we can finally connect the people of Turtle Island to a growing network of disruptive and innovative digital solutions that can enhance their lives,” said Villanueva.
“Our purpose has always been to empower the least empowered and serve the most underserved. Our promise is to give all Filipinos the opportunity to enjoy life-enabling and opportunity-maximizing digital services,” Villanueva added.
RCBC’s investments in digital services have propelled it to become the fastest growing bank in the Philippines leapfrogging from 8th position in 2018 to 5th in 2022 in the list of the country’s largest privately-owned banks in terms of assets.
The bank’s digital innovations have earned it a four-peat Best Bank for Digital award by Asiamoney, the first Youtube ‘The Challenger’ award to be given to a bank, the Eye on Innovation Award by Gartner, and the topmost rank in the recent Philippine Best in Customer Service Survey by data gathering firm Statista and national broadsheet Philippine Daily Inquirer. Just recently, RCBC ATM Go was awarded Best Electronic Channel Program in the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP) Awards 2023.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Dec 17, 2023 | Book Reviews
I first read Inked 8 by Stephanie Brother in March of 2022, and it is by far (to date) my favorite of all of Stephanie’s books. Some stories come close, but for some reason, this is the story that I can’t help but read over and over. And then, just yesterday, the audiobook version came out on Audible. To say I got excited would be an understatement, lol! I was curious to see if it would read aloud the same as it sounds in my head.
Good news, it is even better! I’m definitely a convert and am loving audiobooks now. However, I’ve found that I enjoyed the story more BECAUSE I’ve already read it. I tried listening to a book I hadn’t read before, and my attention wandered.
The story of Inked 8 is possibly one of the hottest stories I’ve ever read … not because of all the men in the reverse harem, but because of all the kinks. Talk about fantasies, phew! The book gave me palpitations, and the audiobook made me swoon! Kudos to the great voice actors Connor Crais and Melanie Hastings! I loved it so much!
What is Inked 8 all about?
The story of Inked 8 revolves around Kayla, a young woman who applied for a job as an administrator at Inked Factor, a tattoo shop owned and managed by eight friends – Carl, Kase and Kole (twins), Dex and Lex (twins). and Nash, Niall, and Noah (triplets). Yes, Stephanie Brother loves her twins and triplets!
As the story progresses, they all embark on a journey of sexual discovery (for Kayla) when Dex proposes a game where she dates each of them once and they each let her experience their kink. While each date is so hot it leaves her (and me!) cross-eyed, each time it leaves Kayla conflicted as she finds herself developing feelings for all eight of them.
How kinky can it get?
Voyeurism, light BDSM, exhibitionism, food play, are just a few of the kinks they explored. Maybe it is an extension of my own kink, but I was transfixed with this story. I couldn’t stop reading it when it came out last year, and I couldn’t stop listening to the audiobook when it came out as well. Add in Connor Crais’ voice in the mix and swoon I’d be surprised if there will be dry panties while listening to this audiobook, especially during the steamy scenes.
I know I will be listening to this story (or excerpts of this story) over and over again, but with the buds on. I can’t have everyone in the house hearing my smut, lol! Inked 8 by Stephanie Brother is available on Amazon in Kindle, Audible, and Paperback format, free with a Kindle Unlimited account.
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 16, 2023 | Business
Optimizing Machinery Performance, Energy Efficiency, Vessel Performance
with Integrated Digital Platform and High Frequency Data
Seamless Remote Monitoring
Being able to navigate on going maritime ecosystem
inefficiencies and challenges is no longer sufficient. It is time to scale the
digital transformation (DX) muscles and strategically optimize your vessel
operations. What new technologies can you embrace to strengthen your supply chain, operate vessels more efficiently,
reliably, and lessen the carbon footprint impact?
Smart Ship© Hub Remote Overview
Smart Ship© Hub Remote, the digital platform offers real-time condition monitoring and analysis
of machinery, vessel performance while enabling predictive diagnostics and maintenance.
Aside from capturing high-frequency data, we leverage legacy machine
data, noon reports, maker manuals, and information collected from ship trials
for integrated analytics. Our proprietary machine learning algorithms are
trained to gain insight and provide business intelligence on vessel
performance, fuel consumption, main engine health, and the overall condition of
the vessel.
Smart Ship© Hub Remote leverages the power of Industrial IOT for to
help ship owners, operators, charterers
detect potential issues before it arises, empowering them to make data-driven intelligent
decisions and proactive adjustments. That positively impacts business KPIs,
reducing unplanned vessel downtime, increasing operational efficiency, and
propelling the ship towards global sustainability goals.
Remote monitoring to protect
you from existing risks
Advanced analytics for freedom
from future risks
Maritime trade is a high-stakes business
where shipowners, operators, charterers
shoulder crucial responsibilities. Smart Ship© Hub (SSH) understands the
complexities of the marine environment and the variety of problems they have to
deal with. On board equipment and machinery are more prone to breakdowns,
malfunctions, and unexpected repairs. Vessels are under constant motion
rendering its equipment to have continuous wear and tear. A break down ( or in
other words Downtime) takes top dollar to ensure the vessel is once again seaworthy
. Time elapsed between the downtime and it being back in operational condition
is directly related to premium paid for maintenance .
Mechanical or structural flaws can cause
serious mishaps and have often resulted in casualties during routine ship
operations. Machinery failure
accounted for one in three reported shipping casualties or incidents globally,
as per the Allianz Safety and Shipping Review 2022. Statistics do not lie!
Marine power systems failure or vessel
engine damage can not only put all assets, cargo, the crew on board the vessel in danger but also poses a threat to
marine ecology. And if the vessel is a chemical tanker , crude oil carrier or
dry bulk that is combustible: the risks and accountabilities are significant. Vessel
damage or vessel downtime translates to significant
financial losses in business. There’s constant pressure to prevent incidents at sea and reduce vessel
downtime, along with the challenge of seeing maintenance costs remain in
check.
Smart Ship ©Hub (SSH) endeavors to help
alleviate the problems and manage the risks that maritime trade ship owners and
operators face. With our digital platform in play, vessels are highly reliable
and the reliability ranges between 20% to 33% , one in three downtime scenarios
have are being constantly successfully predicted and averted.
Planned maintenance is essential for
reducing the frequency of equipment or machinery failures and avoiding
breakdowns that may lead to disruptions in vessel operations. However,
continuing to sail within the comfort zone—relying solely on traditional ship
maintenance methods—will leave ship owners and operators vulnerable to
unexpected breakdowns and costly downtime.
It thus becomes
“mission-critical” to get Smart and explore a newer, more economical, and effective maintenance approach.
Embrace Digital Innovation
Increase Fleet Uptime
Reliable
and cost-effective technologies with multilevel impact—even from REMOTE
locations in real-time.
Smart Ship Hub’s “ All in One”
Feature
Vessel Condition monitoring is the process
of continuously observing a set of voyage metrics and/or shipping process
variables that indicate the state of the vessel being monitored. Smart Ship© Hub
Remote IOT Services facilitates this even from the farthest offshore location.
Remote vessel condition monitoring is critical to sustainable shipping
operations and machine health maintenance and management.
Smart Ship© Hub Remote’s digital services
present a real-time monitoring data-driven predictive maintenance solution for
the shipping industry, powered by dynamic machine learning (ML) algorithms and
artificial intelligence (AI).
Smart Ship© Hub (SSH) digital platform
uses high-frequency data and proprietary algorithms to create a Vessel Health
Index, providing real-time insights into machinery health and equipment
condition. A very unique offering where the vessel’s health is quantified in
terms of its machinery fitness and vessel’s over all sea worthiness. Augmenting
your planned maintenance systems with Smart Ship© Hub Remote will support you
in proactively addressing potential issues and avoiding costly downtime. Remote
monitoring and Live communication of vessel and machine health data enable
predictive maintenance and effective management of shipping operations.
Maritime digitalization technologies are
now a prerequisite, a cost-competitive investment that will serve you well in
the long term.
“An organization with a ‘safety
culture’ is one that gives appropriate priority
to safety and realizes that safety has to be managed like other areas of the
business.”
– International Maritime Organisation
It is crucial to conduct timely maintenance activities for the vessel’s
structural integrity and stability to remain in compliance with safety
standards and environmental
regulations.
Remote management of Vessels through collection of fleet-wide data across vessels coming from the
engine and onboard equipment, end-to-end analytics, and reporting have a
combined positive impact, redefining the Vessel
Health & Condition Monitoring process.
SMART ALERTS
Smart Ship© Hub
Remote’s SMART ALERT for various failure
modes provides advance warning on possible downtime. The ALERT engine is configured
to generate alarms when actual and potential errors or failure is detected. The
other purpose of the alarm is to prioritize the failures based on how serious
the consequences could be and how frequently they occur. It also generated
Failure Mode Effect Analysis along with in-depth knowledge on risks of failures
that could inform timely actions and support continuous improvement.
Relevant drawings,
videos, images of equipment, safety procedures, inspections, and work orders
are linked to these alarms. The generated alarms and notifications can be made
available on devices like iPads aside from Desktops. The SMART ALERT tool is
most useful for planning optimal downtime schedules in advance, well before the
failure occurs.
Predictive Analytics
Predictive
Analytics enables maritime trade shipowners and operators to avoid costly
unplanned downtime and increase asset reliability from a remote environment.
Graphical chart-based and tabular insights based on historical as well as Live
shipping data are available as a customized service to accurately measure
critical vessel parameters.
Our validated and
globally trusted ML-based advanced integrated analytics detect and deliver
early warnings on vessel condition, engine health, and other asset
anomalies—sometimes weeks or months before the failure occurs. The predictive
algorithms can forecast the exact time of failure, allowing maintenance
priorities to be specified.
Predictive
Analytics provides the necessary information to trigger Alerts and assists
engineers in determining the next maintenance cycle for machinery or equipment
in service to prevent unanticipated problems during the voyage and wastage of
resources.
With substantial
cost savings as one of the key outcomes, maritime trade organizations are
deploying Smart Ship© Hub Remote for Predictive Maintenance that ensures lower
vessel downtime.
Diagnostics Algorithms
The SMART ALERT tool
triggers our proprietary machine learning (ML) algorithms that gets trained to
deliver vessel health diagnostics by utilizing live data generated together
with historical data, past FMEA’s, Legacy onboard data and other pertinent process
data captured through our Data Quality Management (DQM) feature. The
data-driven machine learning-based wear fault diagnostic model is built to
support engineers in determining the cause of fault modes correctly.
The diagnostics
algorithms identify the root cause and provide clear actionable insights and
recommendations for making informed decisions. The ML algorithms thus help
avoid failures, especially those earmarked as a high priority by the automated
Technical Advisory Reports for crew and shore staff.
Smart Ship© Hub
Remote IOT Services can be relied upon for data-backed guidance on corrective
measures, leading to substantial savings in spares, maintenance costs, labor,
and lost business opportunities.
Smart Ship© Hub Remote Features
● Continuous Tracking &
Situational Awareness
Smart Ship© Hub
Remote is a 24/7 AI/ML-powered intelligent system that facilitates remote
tracking of ships during voyages to and from the port.. The entire fleet of
ships may also be continuously monitored from an onshore remote center and
controlled by an automatic system. Smart Ship© Hub Remote IOT Services
facilitate the seamless communication of real-time voyage data informed by
onboard sensors enabling the ship operators to acquire adequate situational
awareness.
● Integrated Onboard and Shore
Operations
The
fleet stays continuously connected with the ship owner’s onshore vessel
operations management team. With full access to the onboard engine and assets
operations information through the remote monitoring systems, the operators get
superior visibility for maintenance planning and optimal vessel operations
management.
● Single Source of Truth Across
the Fleet
The
Smart Ship© Hub (SSH) maritime digitization platform catalyzes the collection
of raw shipping data from Vessel Machinery, IoT sensors, and multiplexers,
harmonizes it, and delivers it to the shore team in the form of customized
Dashboards, Analytics, Alarms, Alerts, and Advisory. Leveraging data with the
help of AI/ML-powered integrated analytics creates immense value as it reduces
human effort in gaining business insights for the organization, ship owners,
and operators.
Previously,
it was essential to contact a third party or consult various sources of
information separately to check the ship’s statistics, which took a long time.
SSH platform is the “go-to” unified and single source of truth for shipowners,
superintendents, and managers that simplifies dealing with problems that may
arise while sailing.
●
Predictive Diagnostics
Predictive
Diagnostics is a proactive approach for solving unplanned downtime of vessels
due to equipment failure that helps create substantial cost savings for Ship
Managers and Operators.
Live data from Main
Engine, Auxillaries, Diesel Generators, Boilers, Scrubbers, Cranes, Flow
Meters, Pumps etc. with historical data coming from noon reports and sea trials
gives a peek at live conditions on machines running on the vessels. These data
sets are continuously monitored and machine learning and algorithms models
bring in actionable intelligence about the condition of machinery and spares
further supported by an advisory modeling system. Owners and operators can take
decisions supported by the system to make the sailing smooth and operationally
efficient.
●
Predictive Maintenance of Machinery
It
is a proactive approach in which early study of the machinery while it is still
operating normally exposes the shipboard equipment or the machinery’s
condition, thereby forewarning of the impending degradation or the onset of
defects in the machinery.
With
full awareness of the equipment’s current and future capabilities, maintenance
activities can be undertaken in advance in a planned manner, supporting optimal
utilization of resources. Predictive
maintenance aims to solve problems and any maintenance challenges ahead of
time. It is also by far the most cost-effective as compared to traditional
maintenance approaches. Using Smart Ship Hub platform, Vessel Owners &
Operators are saving upto 11% in their maintenance budget with our Tech
Advisory on vessel operations.
●
Vessel Health Index VHI
Smart Ship© Hub
Remote generate the most empirical and accurate Vessel Health Index (VHI) to
aid vessel condition monitoring, ensuring the safety and security of the
vessel. Get an account of reliability-centered maintenance identified for
different parts of the ship. Powered by AI/ML, the VHI provides estimates the “Remaining
useful life” of specific equipment and enabling a quantified measure of Vessel health
index.
●
Individual Vessel Performance Management with Select Smart Sensors and
Gateway Technologies
Smart
Ship© Hub Remote uses smart sensor technologies, connectors, and proprietary
gateway devices, which enable efficient shipping data capturing and
communication with reliable safety and security.
●
Cloud-based Services
SSH is an
end-to-end Cloud agnostic digital platform. Available on any 3rd
party cloud services, that suits the customer, the digital platform can be
seamlessly accessed from mobile, tabs or desktops remotely . Cloud solution brings
real-time benefits and drives productivity, efficiency by providing live and
holistic data on complete vessel and voyage performance while bringing down
on-prem infrastructure cost by upto 40% in few cases.
Smart Ship© Hub Remote Benefits
● Reduced Downtime of your fleet
● Improved Reliability of Assets across
● Increased efficiency across machinery and
decision making processes
●
Maximized Reliability
and voyage safety
Aside
from the above primary benefits, there are a host of secondary benefits:
● Reduced overheads
● Increased energy savings
● Overall operational efficiency
gains
● Reduced maintenance and repair
costs
● Minimized component failures
● Forecast of inventory preventing
unnecessary hoarding of parts and wastage of resources
● Optimal utilization of man-hours
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 15, 2023 | Business
Primuse Group, a major player in the music industry, announces the launch of Crescendo, its dedicated classical division, emphasizing its commitment to delivering exceptional musical experiences in Asia. In collaboration with Shiraz Projects & MyTicket Asia, Crescendo’s inaugural show features the iconic ballet “Swan Lake” by the St. Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, in Kuala Lumpur on 22 May 2024. The event promises a unique experience with a focus on tradition and excellence. Tickets go on sale in mid-January 2024 on myticket.asia.
Malaysia, 15 December 2023 – Primuse Group, a leading force in the music industry, proudly introduces Crescendo, its dedicated division for high-level classical concerts. This move underscores Primuse’s commitment to delivering captivating musical experiences across Asia.
Crescendo, Primuse’s dedicated classical division, aims to share the allure of classical and contemporary music throughout Asia. Meticulously curating experiences that encompass ballet, orchestral concerts, and modern compositions, Crescendo showcases its unwavering commitment to impeccable execution.
Swan Lake’s Magic with St. Petersburg National Ballet Theatre’s Debut
Crescendo, in collaboration with Shiraz Projects and MyTickets Asia, is excited to announce its inaugural show featuring the iconic ballet masterpiece, “Swan Lake” in 2 acts and 4 scenes, with the St. Petersburg National Ballet Theatre in Kuala Lumpur on 22 May 2024. This cultural event promises a unique experience, setting it apart from traditional ballet performances.
Renowned for over 5,000 concerts worldwide, the St. Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, led by former Mariinsky Theatre soloists, brings Swan Lake’s excellence to the Plenary Hall, KLCC. The troupe has proudly participated in 17 international ballet festivals, further solidifying its global standing in the world of ballet. The troupe of the theatre boasts graduates from the renowned Vaganova Ballet Academy. Comprising both corps de ballet and soloists, these artists have honed their skills at one of the oldest ballet schools globally, the Vaganova Ballet Academy, founded in 1738. This historical institution has contributed significantly to the theatre’s legacy, ensuring a level of excellence and tradition in every performance.
Exclusive Note for Malaysia
In Malaysia, four years ago, a ballet of similar quality—full classical ballet with soloists, corps de ballet, decorations, and costumes—graced the stage. While many recent productions lack historical choreography, our concert honors tradition and showcases the highest degree of excellence.
Prepare yourself to sign up for the waitlist and secure your tickets in the middle of January 2024 at myticket.asia or bit.ly/swan-lake-waitlist-MY, don’t miss the chance to attend this high-quality ballet production!
About Shiraz Projects
Shiraz Projects, Malaysia’s premier event organizer with over 12 years of expertise, is known for its originality and customer service excellence. From intimate gatherings to grand events, our dedicated team weaves creativity and innovation into every detail. We specialize in managing world-class projects, ensuring a memorable experience while delivering exceptional return on investment. As your partners in bringing visions to life, Shiraz Projects goes beyond event organizing to create unforgettable experiences for organizers and attendees alike.
About MyTicket Asia
We are delighted to collaborate with MyTicket Asia as the exclusive ticketing platform for the upcoming Swan Lake show presented by Crescendo, Primuse Group’s dedicated classical division. Secure your tickets through MyTicket Asia for a seamless experience in accessing this exceptional cultural event, brought to you by a partnership committed to delivering quality entertainment.
Please find the press kit here.
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 15, 2023 | Business
Primuse Group, a major player in the music industry, announces the launch of Crescendo, its dedicated classical division, emphasizing its commitment to delivering exceptional musical experiences in Asia. In collaboration with Shiraz Projects & MyTicket Asia, Crescendo’s inaugural show features the iconic ballet “Swan Lake” by the St. Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, in Singapore on 24 & 25 May 2024. The event promises a unique experience with a focus on tradition and excellence. Tickets go on sale in mid-January 2024 on myticket.asia.
Singapore, 15 December 2023 – Primuse Group, a leading force in the music industry, proudly introduces Crescendo, its dedicated division for high-level classical concerts. This move underscores Primuse’s commitment to delivering captivating musical experiences across Asia.
Crescendo, Primuse’s dedicated classical division, aims to share the allure of classical and contemporary music throughout Asia. Meticulously curating experiences that encompass ballet, orchestral concerts, and modern compositions, Crescendo showcases its unwavering commitment to impeccable execution.
Swan Lake’s Magic with St. Petersburg National Ballet Theatre’s Debut
Crescendo, in collaboration with Shiraz Projects and MyTickets Asia, is excited to announce its inaugural show featuring the iconic ballet masterpiece, “Swan Lake” in 2 acts and 4 scenes, with the St. Petersburg National Ballet Theatre in Singapore on 24 & 25 May 2024. This cultural event promises a unique experience, setting it apart from traditional ballet performances.
Renowned for over 5,000 concerts worldwide, the St. Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, led by former Mariinsky Theatre soloists, brings Swan Lake’s excellence to The Theatre at Mediacorp. The troupe has proudly participated in 17 international ballet festivals, further solidifying its global standing in the world of ballet. The troupe of the theatre boasts graduates from the renowned Vaganova Ballet Academy. Comprising both corps de ballet and soloists, these artists have honed their skills at one of the oldest ballet schools globally, the Vaganova Ballet Academy, founded in 1738. This historical institution has contributed significantly to the theatre’s legacy, ensuring a level of excellence and tradition in every performance.
Exclusive Note for Singapore
In Singapore, three years ago, a ballet of similar quality—full classical ballet with soloists, corps de ballet, decorations, and costumes—graced the stage. While many recent productions lack historical choreography, our concert honors tradition and showcases the highest degree of excellence.
Prepare yourself to sign up for the waitlist and secure your tickets in the middle of January 2024 at myticket.asia or bit.ly/swan-lake-waitlist-SG, don’t miss the chance to attend this high-quality ballet production!
About Shiraz Projects
Shiraz Projects, Malaysia’s premier event organizer with over 12 years of expertise, is known for its originality and customer service excellence. From intimate gatherings to grand events, our dedicated team weaves creativity and innovation into every detail. We specialize in managing world-class projects, ensuring a memorable experience while delivering exceptional return on investment. As your partners in bringing visions to life, Shiraz Projects goes beyond event organizing to create unforgettable experiences for organizers and attendees alike.
About MyTicket Asia
We are delighted to collaborate with MyTicket Asia as the exclusive ticketing platform for the upcoming Swan Lake show presented by Crescendo, Primuse Group’s dedicated classical division. Secure your tickets through MyTicket Asia for a seamless experience in accessing this exceptional cultural event, brought to you by a partnership committed to delivering quality entertainment.
Please find the press kit here.
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 15, 2023 | Business
This AI-driven platform offers a comprehensive range of training solutions, which include ESG contents that can be found in more than 1,000 related compliance topics.
CYBERJAYA, December 14, 2023 – AwanBiru Technology Berhad (“Awantec”) through its fully-owned subsidiary, Awantec Systems Sdn Bhd (“ASSB”) continues to strengthen its position as the country’s leading information communication technology training and certification service provider by equipping sustainability professionals with knowledge in Environment, Social, and Governance (“ESG”). This was made possible through its strategic partnership with Pertubuhan Alam Sekitar, Sosial dan Tadbir Urus Malaysia (“ESG Malaysia”), an organisation that supports Malaysia’s ESG transformation.
This partnership will solidify ASSB’s prominence at the forefront of digital learning solutions in Malaysia by offering a comprehensive range of training solutions that are not only highly relevant but also at the forefront of innovation through its collaboration with Skillsoft. This AI-driven platform offers a comprehensive range of training solutions, which include ESG contents that can be found in more than 1,000 related compliance topics.
Within the framework of this collaboration, ESG Malaysia is committed to expand the reach of ESG content and training courses through the AI-driven Skillsoft Percipio platform offered by Awantec known as ESG Digital Academy. The platform allows organisations to identify and measure their workforce’s skill proficiencies while empowering them to stay competitive and relevant.
Skillsoft’s AI-driven online learning platform, known for its expertly curated, high-quality skilling pathways mapped to the world’s most in-demand competencies, accelerates learning in a personalised and accessible way. Offering a blend of self-paced courses, hands-on practice, virtual live online classes, and coaching, Skillsoft allows individuals to close skill gaps, anytime, anywhere, and on any device. As Awantec, a HRDCorp Certified Training Provider, organisations can utilise their Human Resource Development Corporation (“HRD”) levy through Skillsoft.
ESG Malaysia’s concerted efforts will target a broad audience, encompassing both the public and private sectors. This strategic alliance seeks to make cutting-edge ESG content more accessible and affordable for a diverse range of learners and organisations, particularly environmental and sustainable practitioners who want to enhance their knowledge on sustainability reporting, renewable energy and green technologies, and sustainable transportation, among others.
“Awantec’s strategic collaboration with ESG Malaysia is particularly timely, occurring in an era when sustainability, ethics, and corporate governance have become integral aspects of assessing non-financial performance indicators and, in turn, the overall health and longevity of businesses. Our collaboration with Skillsoft has harnessed a suite of products and solutions to craft an accessible, affordable, and user-friendly digital learning platform.” Awantec’s Chief Executive Officer, En. Azlan Zainal Abidin said.
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 14, 2023 | Business
Singapore, 14 December 2023 — Singapore is poised to spearhead an innovative era in Halal culinary experiences, marked by the debut of the HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards. This groundbreaking endeavor, a collaborative effort between HalalTrip and the Singapore Halal Culinary Federation, was today exclusively unveiled to the media and partners, signifying an important milestone in the evolution of Halal dining. The awards, signaling the start of a new chapter in Halal cuisine, are set to extend their reach to additional cities in the forthcoming years.
The HalalTrip Gastronomy Award is a prestigious recognition in Halal dining, established to honor Singapore’s most exemplary Halal culinary establishments. These awards evaluate Halal eateries, placing a strong emphasis on culinary distinction. Participating venues are evaluated on five criteria, including creative presentation, flavor harmony, food quality, menu innovation, and service excellence, with the best performers receiving one to three diamonds. Moreover, leading contenders in each segment will vie for the coveted Best-in-Class Awards. This evaluation process is conducted with utmost integrity by professional inspectors dining incognito.
In addition to the awards, the HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards introduce a Gastronomy Cook-off, an arena for celebrating the extraordinary talents of chefs from Halal dining establishments. This competition will bring together chefs of diverse expertise, challenging them to stretch their culinary imagination and skills.
“We are thrilled to launch the HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards, a landmark initiative set to redefine the Halal dining experience in Singapore and globally. This platform is not just an award; it’s a celebration of culinary innovation and a tribute to the diverse, rich flavors that Halal cuisine offers. We aim to set new benchmarks in Halal culinary excellence, inspiring chefs and establishments to elevate their craft constantly. This is a step towards showcasing Singapore as a vibrant epicenter of Halal gastronomy, inviting the world to savor and appreciate the unique and exquisite tastes that our talented chefs create.” said Chef Kamal, President of the Singapore Halal Culinary Federation.
According to the Mastercard-CrescentRating Halal Food Lifestyle 2021 report, Singapore Muslims’ expenditure on Halal dining was estimated to be SGD 700 Million in 2019. Local Muslim millennials were identified as the key driving force behind the growth of this sector. With Muslim visitors to Singapore spending SGD 300 million in 2019, the total Halal dining market was estimated to be SGD 1 Billion in 2019.
The upward trajectory in the Halal food market mirrors the evolving preferences of the modern Muslim diner. Today’s consumers look beyond just Halal certification; they yearn for a rich and varied culinary experience, ranging from authentic street food to upscale fine dining, all aligned with their faith and ethical values. This shift signifies a growing emphasis on quality, innovation, and diversity in Halal gastronomy.
“In the spirit of innovation and appreciation for the finest in Halal gastronomy, the HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards mark a momentous partnership between HalalTrip and the Singapore Halal Culinary Federation,” said Raudha Zaini, Strategic Partnerships & Projects Lead at HalalTrip. “This inaugural culinary accolade sets the stage for the celebration of culinary excellence and spotlights exceptional Halal dining establishments, starting with Singapore. It is a testament to our commitment to continuously elevate Halal lifestyle experiences.”
The first HalalTrip Gastronomy Award recipients will be revealed at the fourth Halal In Travel Global Summit in May 2024. The summit serves as the leading international forum for the Halal travel industry, drawing a wide range of participants from travel professionals and industry pioneers to culinary experts.
Visit this link to learn more about the HalalTrip Gastronomy Awards 2024: https://www.halaltrip.com/halaltrip-gastronomy-awards/
Visit this link for the full press kit: https://bit.ly/presskithtga
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 14, 2023 | Business
World War Children Foundation [WCCF] officially launched at Shangri-la Hotel Kuala Lumpur. During the event, WCCF has also appointed representatives for its various chapters in Malaysia, China, Serbia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Hong Kong, and Taipei. These representatives will be responsible for coordinating local initiatives, fundraising, and advocating for the foundation’s mission in their respective regions.
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 13 (Bernama) — The World War Children Care Foundation (WCCF) officially commenced its international humanitarian mission aimed at assisting children affected by war with a swearing-in ceremony of the foundation’s committee today at Shang Ri La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.
The foundation, which was a registered non-profit organization in Malaysia, stated that the objective is to rescue and rehabilitate children residing in modern conflict zones while offering the said children educational opportunities that can nurture their physical and mental well-being. The foundation is created through a joint initiative between Madam Linda Wong, Dato Dr. Clement Tan of Clement & Associates, and Attorney Dato’ Koh Mui Tee. The foundation has appointed representatives for various chapters in Malaysia, China, Serbia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Hong Kong and Taipei.
In the near future, the foundation is set to lead the comprehensive ‘Dove Aid Operation’ (DAO) program in 2004, in close collaboration with several international organizations. This program will adopt a secure and holistic approach to safely extract children from war zones and provide them refuge in secure shelters, ensuring their safety and well-being.
“Together, we will identify the most urgently required rescue areas, assemble teams comprising medical personnel, social workers, and dedicated volunteers, and distribute essential supplies such as food, medicine, and bedding,” Linda Wong, WCCF President, emphasized during the launch of WCCF.
The foundation’s vision includes the establishment of International Humanitarian War Children Schools in Malaysia and China, which will be open to children from diverse backgrounds, races, religions, and cultures. These schools will implement the Caring Education curriculum, guided by the Yi Hai Education Group, with the goal of helping children overcome the psychological trauma they have experienced, fostering confidence, and reigniting optimism.
“We aim to showcase the incredible strength and courage of war children as they reintegrate into society, becoming compassionate individuals who contribute to rebuilding their homes and caring for others in need,” Wong noted.
Currently, tens of thousands of children worldwide endure the hardships of war. These children require not only care, support, and love but also urgent action. Therefore, WCCF passionately appeals to compassionate business organizations and individuals to join hands in this noble cause.
In addition to its mission, the foundation unveiled a business charity campaign called “Healing the World Through Business,” with the first corporate donation initiated through Green Smart Planet Platform’s continual business revenue, presented with a mock cheque for RM1,217,000.
During the event, the foundation further introduced “Saving War Children with Your Cup of Coffee,” where attendees voluntarily participated by adopting cups of premium coffee from Clemént Coffee Boutique, with all business profits donated to the foundation.
The foundation has appointed representatives for various chapters in Malaysia, China, Serbia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Hong Kong and Taipei.
The launch was also attended by Deputy Director-General of the Children’s Division Wan Noraidah Wan Mohd Zain on behalf of Women, Family, and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
I first read Inked 8 by Stephanie Brother in March of 2022, and it is by far (to date) my favorite of all of Stephanie’s books. Some stories come close, but for some reason, this is the story that I can’t help but read over and over. And then, just yesterday, the audiobook version came out on Audible. To say I got excited would be an understatement, lol! I was curious to see if it would read aloud the same as it sounds in my head.
In addition to its mission, the foundation unveiled a business charity campaign called “Healing the World Through Business,” with the first corporate donation initiated through Green Smart Planet Platform’s continual business revenue, presented with a mock cheque for RM1,217,000.
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