by | Mar 23, 2025 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – March 13, 2025 – Slope
Master, a premier ski training provider, has partnered with Hextar World to
establish Malaysia’s largest indoor ski training facility at Empire City in
Kuala Lumpur. This collaboration marks a transformative moment for winter
sports in Southeast Asia, aiming to make skiing and snowboarding accessible to
people of all ages and skill levels.
Arthur Yap (Yap Ghai Pang), Founder
and CEO of Slope Master, expressed his excitement about the partnership, which
aims to make indoor skiing a mainstream activity in Southeast Asia. “This
partnership is a historic step for Malaysia’s winter sports culture. We hope to
provide top-tier training opportunities for athletes while making indoor skiing
accessible to all,” said Arthur Yap.
Arthur Yap (Yap Ghai Pang), an avid snowboarder and
passionate winter sports advocate, identified the potential for indoor skiing
in Malaysia despite the tropical climate. “Sports culture in Southeast
Asia is growing, and skiing is becoming a part of that shift. As someone who
has experienced the positive impact of sports, our goal is to inspire people
across Southeast Asia to take up skiing and snowboarding,” Arthur Yap (Yap
Ghai Pang) added.
Building a Ski Culture in Southeast Asia
Slope Master’s mission extends beyond providing a training
facility—it’s about fostering a lasting ski culture in Malaysia and the broader
Southeast Asia region. The state-of-the-art indoor center will cater to all
levels of skiers, from beginners to professional athletes, offering year-round
training in a climate-controlled environment.
“We’ve spoken to many young Malaysians eager to pursue
winter sports but lacking regular training opportunities. This facility will
provide year-round training, whether they aim to compete professionally or
enjoy skiing recreationally,” said Arthur Yap (Yap Ghai Pang). He also
emphasized that the facility would nurture future champions in winter sports by
offering a consistent platform for athletes to improve their skills.
“This is a game-changer for Malaysia, where winter sports
opportunities have been limited,” Arthur Yap (Yap Ghai Pang) added. The new
center will help close the gap for aspiring athletes, eliminating the need to
travel abroad for training.
Strategic Location and Partnership with Hextar World
Slope Master chose to partner with Hextar World due to the strategic
location of Empire City in Kuala Lumpur. “Empire City is a
dynamic, vibrant hub that attracts diverse groups, from tourists to families to
athletes. Its environment is ideal for an indoor ski facility, and we believe
it will offer a world-class experience for our visitors,” Arthur Yap (Yap
Ghai Pang) explained.
Hextar World, a new entertainment destination, will include
a wide variety of attractions, including shopping, dining, and leisure options.
Empire City’s prime location in the heart of Kuala Lumpur makes it a perfect
fit for the indoor ski facility, drawing visitors from across Malaysia and
beyond. “Empire City is the perfect place for Slope Master’s flagship facility.
The location offers ample opportunities for collaboration with other
entertainment ventures,” Arthur Yap (Yap Ghai Pang) added.
A Hub for Athletes, Families, and Enthusiasts
The indoor ski facility will cater to skiers of all levels, offering equipment rentals, professional lessons, and a retail space for ski and
snowboarding gear. It will also host events, competitions, and training camps
to elevate the sport of skiing in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
“We want to make indoor skiing a fun and accessible family
activity. The facility will provide something for everyone—whether it’s a child
experiencing snow for the first time or an athlete training for competition,”
Arthur Yap (Yap Ghai Pang) said. The center will also introduce programs for
schools, youth organizations, and families, aiming to encourage widespread
participation in winter sports.
Arthur Yap (Yap Ghai Pang) emphasized that the facility
would be instrumental in developing young talent. “The right environment
is crucial for athletes to thrive. This facility will give Malaysian youth the
chance to reach their full potential, and we believe it will be a launchpad for
future Olympians in skiing.”
Hextar World: Transforming Malaysia’s Entertainment
Landscape
Hextar World is set to redefine Malaysia’s entertainment sector with a
diverse range of attractions, including entertainment complexes, retail
outlets, and food venues. This variety makes it a key player in Malaysia’s
entertainment and leisure market.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Slope Master as one of our first
major tenants,” said a spokesperson for Hextar World. “This collaboration is an
integral part of our vision to create a world-class entertainment destination.
We believe the indoor ski facility will be a main attraction, drawing visitors
from across Malaysia and beyond.”
Looking Ahead
The indoor ski training center is expected to open in late 2025,
becoming a key part of Empire City’s vibrant attraction ecosystem. Yap is
optimistic about the future of skiing in Southeast Asia and the role Slope
Master will play in making the sport more accessible.
“This is just the beginning. We’re excited about the future
of skiing in Southeast Asia and the impact this facility will have on the
sport. We’re proud to be part of Hextar World and look forward to creating
something truly special for Malaysia, Southeast Asia, and beyond,” Yap
concluded.
by | Mar 22, 2025 | Business
Singapore, 21 March 2025 – Creativeans, an award-winning brand and design consultancy, introduces BrandsBuilder.ai, Singapore’s first AI-powered brand consultant for startups and SMEs.
A strong brand helps businesses stand out, build trust, and drive long-term growth. However, many startups and SMEs struggle with branding due to limited resources and expertise. BrandsBuilder.ai addresses this challenge by providing a fast, cost-effective, and accessible branding solution.
Officially launched at IMDA’s PIXEL Innovation Hub, BrandsBuilder.ai transforms the way businesses build their brands by making expert guidance available through AI. Built on Creativeans’ proprietary BrandBuilder® methodology, the platform simplifies brand development, enabling businesses to define their brand positioning, create a unique identity, and maintain consistency across all touchpoints efficiently and affordably.
“Strong brands do not happen by chance. They are built with intention at every touchpoint,” said Kimming Yap, Managing Director of Creativeans. “With BrandsBuilder.ai, we are empowering startups and SMEs to brand smarter, launch faster, and scale further.”
As Singapore strengthens its position as a global innovation hub, BrandsBuilder.ai aligns with national efforts to support digital transformation and AI adoption among SMEs. The platform provides:
AI-Powered Brand Audit to assess brand strengths and areas for improvement instantly.
Strategic Brand Positioning to help businesses define a clear and competitive market stance.
Easy-to-Use Brand Identity Tools to create distinctive logos, messaging, and visual branding with minimal resources.
Integrated Brand Touchpoints to ensure brand consistency across digital, physical, and experiential interactions.
AI-Driven Strategy Recommendations to accelerate decision-making and brand development.
Cost-Efficient Deployment Solutions to streamline brand rollout quickly and affordably.
By combining branding strategy with AI automation, BrandsBuilder.ai helps businesses develop brands effectively without the high cost and long timelines of traditional branding services.
Available Now – Contact Us for Early Access
BrandsBuilder.ai is now available with two flexible subscription plans:
Professional Plan for startups and small businesses looking for an affordable AI-driven branding solution that simplifies brand development.
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Be among the first to experience BrandsBuilder.ai. Contact us today for early access.
by | Mar 21, 2025 | Business
Analysis of over 2.4 million online job applications in Australia reveals that the median time to fill a vacancy is 32 days, with each role attracting 65 applications. The research by SmartRecruiters, the recruiting AI company, also reveals that of the 65 applicants per job post, 6% typically get invited to interview, resulting in 2% receiving job offers.
In terms of the recruitment process, the data reveals that job applications in Australia are on average, reviewed in 6 days, with interviews taking place 13 days after applications are received. Globally, companies using AI fill vacancies 26% faster than those not using it.
The research examined 89 million job applications across Australia, France, Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom. According to the study, 83% of Australian applicants accept their job offer, but only 3% of applicants come from referrals, and 4% from internal hires – which is significantly less than the global average. Recruiters in Australia are highly efficient, bringing on 78% more hires per recruiter than the global average.
Rebecca Carr, CEO of SmartRecruiters, said: “The way that Australian businesses manage talent acquisition continues to evolve. There is increasing adoption of AI to streamline the process, making it more efficient and effective and ensuring that the candidate experience reflects the employer’s values while being compliant with employment legislation.
“The data shows that Australian businesses are ahead of France, Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom when it comes to moving from application to job offer, perhaps reflecting the competition for talent in the job market in Australia.”
This study is part of SmartRecruiters’ newly established annual hiring benchmark report, which will provide year-over-year insights into hiring trends, recruitment efficiency, and internal mobility across key global markets. SmartRecruiters analysed 12 months of aggregated, anonymised application data processed through its applicant tracking system from September 2023 through August 2024.
To download the report, click here.
by | Mar 21, 2025 | Business
Top Crypto Exchanges In The Philippines To Start Crypto Investing
For starters, investing in crypto is intimidating, and starting to diversify your assets toward digital finance, in that of Cryptocurrencies is relatively new. Cryptocurrency has become one of the most exciting and innovative ways to invest, and the Philippines has seen a surge in interest in this digital asset class. Whether you’re new to investing or looking to diversify your portfolio, choosing the right crypto exchange is crucial for ensuring your journey into the world of cryptocurrencies is secure, user-friendly, and efficient. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top crypto exchanges in the Philippines, perfect for beginners looking to invest and trade in the world of crypto investing.
- Bitget
Bitget, trusted by 100 million users worldwide, is one of the top crypto exchanges globally which started in 2018. It boasts a reliable and secure platform to safeguard your Bitcoins and other crypto assets. Whether you just want to buy Bitcoin long-term or trade it short-term with various different products, you can never go wrong with Bitget. With over 700+ coins to choose from, surely the crypto token that you are looking for is listed in Bitget. With its $600+ million Bitget Protection Fund, users need not to worry about their assets being stolen. With industry-leading security and full transparency of asset records with their Proof of Reserves (PoR) that you can track in real-time, Bitget offers an efficient and smart trading experience to its users.
Bitget is known for its largest crypto copy trading platform and boasts its platform token, BGB which exceeded far great expectations for the first half of 2024. Aside from Bitcoin breaking all-time high prices up to $110K, BGB also surged to $8.5 in December of 2024 (as of the time of writing). Also, Bitget has its own Web3 wallet known as Bitget Wallet which is in a league of its own compared to other wallets out there with safer transactions and competitive prices.
Key Features:
BGB, as a platform token, the top priority for BGB is to provide diverse range of exclusive benefits to holders, so that we can benefit together from Bitget’s growth
Low fees, with the platform offering some of the most competitive rates in the industry.
Supports local payment methods
High-level security, with monthly Proof of Reserves (PoR) and Protection Fund Report to assure users of its transparency and credibility
Why Choose Bitget in the Philippines: Bitget’s global presence and strong reputation make it an excellent choice for Filipino crypto investors. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start with the basics or an experienced trader interested in advanced features, Bitget provides a well-rounded platform with all the necessary tools and security.
- Coins.ph
One of the top cryptocurrency platforms in the Philippines, Coins.ph excels at fusing practicality with quality financial services. Its ability to smoothly combine digital currency with conventional financial operations—enabling users to purchase, sell, and manage cryptocurrencies alongside regular financial activities like bill payments and mobile top-ups—is what makes it admirable. Recently, they introduced PHPC stablecoin which is backed by Fiat, with a target price of 1 PHPC to 1 Philippine Peso. With this release, Coins.ph aims to use it in cross-border money transfers, merchant payments, and trading. Additionally, it places a strong emphasis on security, protecting users’ assets and data through encryption. Coins.ph provides a complete solution that assists both new and seasoned users in understanding the world of cryptocurrencies by bridging the gap between digital money and everyday use.
Why Choose Coins.ph in the Philippines: Coins.ph is a fantastic option for beginners because of its simplicity and ease of access. With its ability to link with popular local payment apps like GCash and PayMaya, it makes the transition into crypto very seamless for Filipinos.
- PDAX
PDAX is a domestic digital asset exchange in the Philippines. You might have seen this in GCash’s crypto platform, as they power GCrypto. They are also UnionBank’s cryptocurrency partner. PDAX maintains its position as one of the top cryptocurrency exchanges based in the Philippines by focusing on user convenience and accessibility. The exchange provides quick trading, and affordable prices using the Philippine Peso, way to go in ensuring ease of access, right? PDAX is a force to be reckoned with as one of the greatest cryptocurrency exchanges for Filipino customers due to its ease of use and simple interface.
Why Choose PDAX in the Philippines: For Filipino investors who want a local platform with government oversight, PDAX is an excellent choice. The exchange’s focus on security, local payment methods, and regulatory compliance makes it a safe and reliable platform for those new to crypto investing.
- Kraken
A well-known cryptocurrency exchange with a wide range of features and strong security measures is Kraken. Kraken, a trading platform that caters to both novice and advanced traders, was founded in 2011 and offers spot trading, futures, and margin trading. Its use of cold storage for cash, frequent security audits, and robust encryption procedures all serve to highlight its emphasis on security. Kraken is well-known in the cryptocurrency trading scene for its dependability, transparency, and user-friendliness. It also offers cheap costs, a wide range of cryptocurrencies, and a user-friendly interface.
Why Choose Kraken in the Philippines: Kraken is well-suited for both beginners and more advanced traders. Its combination of robust security, range of cryptocurrencies, and advanced trading features gives it a strong edge. For those who may want to get into more complex trading later on, Kraken provides the tools to grow and diversify their portfolio.
- Crypto.com
Founded in 2016, Crypto.com is a well-known cryptocurrency platform that provides a variety of financial services, such as trading, staking, and interest-earning on cryptocurrencies. The platform supports a large variety of digital content and has an intuitive user interface. Among its noteworthy products are a native token (CRO), a Visa card with cryptocurrency benefits, and a range of DeFi and NFT services. With features like cold storage and sophisticated encryption, Crypto.com prioritizes security and good user experience.
Why Choose Crypto.com in the Philippines: Crypto.com’s versatility makes it an attractive option for Filipinos who are looking to explore more than just basic trading. Its broad range of services—like staking, rewards, and its crypto Visa card—gives users many ways to grow their portfolios. For those looking to dip into multiple aspects of the crypto ecosystem, Crypto.com is a one-stop-shop.
As the cryptocurrency market continues to grow, the Philippines is emerging as a major hub for crypto adoption. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience in investing, the right exchange can make all the difference in your crypto journey. All in all, no matter what Crypto Exchange you choose, choose one that prioritizes your safety and security.
by | Mar 21, 2025 | Business
Setting up a representative office in Indonesia can be a strategic move for foreign businesses aiming to explore the Indonesian market without the commitment of a full-scale operation. This guide will walk you through the comprehensive process of representative office registration in Indonesia, ensuring you understand the legal requirements, steps involved, and the benefits you can gain from establishing a presence in one of Southeast Asia’s largest economies.
Establishing a representative office in Indonesia offers foreign companies a strategic entry point into one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic markets. This article delves into the essentials of setting up a representative office, including the legal framework, types of offices, and the step-by-step registration process. It highlights the benefits, from cost-efficiency to strategic advantages, and addresses the potential challenges and compliance requirements. Whether you’re exploring market opportunities or aiming to build local relationships, understanding the intricacies of representative office registration in Indonesia is crucial for a successful venture.
Introduction to Representative Office Registration in Indonesia
Establishing a representative office in Indonesia offers foreign companies an effective way to explore the market without committing to a full-scale business setup. This type of office allows businesses to engage in promotional activities, market research, and other non-commercial operations.
Legal Framework and Requirements
Regulatory Bodies :In Indonesia, representative offices are regulated by various government agencies, including the Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) and the Ministry of Trade. These bodies ensure that foreign entities comply with local laws and regulations.Legal Constraints: Representative offices are not permitted to engage in direct sales or revenue-generating activities. Their scope is limited to non-commercial functions such as market research, liaison, and promotional activities.Compliance: Maintaining compliance involves adhering to regulations set by the BKPM and other relevant authorities. Regular reporting and audits may be required to ensure ongoing adherence to legal standards.
Types of Representative Offices
KPPA (Representative Office for Foreign Trade Company)
KPPA allows foreign companies to establish a presence for promoting their products and services, conducting market research, and coordinating with local agents and distributors.
KP3A (Representative Office for Foreign Trading Company)
KP3A is designed for foreign construction companies to manage projects, supervise, and conduct market studies in Indonesia.
BUJKA (Representative Office for Foreign Construction Company)
BUJKA allows foreign construction companies to operate and do construction activities in Indonesia. Although the basic rules of representative office cannot generate revenue, under BUJKA, the entity can sign construction contracts and carry out the project.
Representative Office of Foreign Electric Power Support Services (kantor perwakilan jasa penunjang tenaga listrik asing)
This type of Representative Office is for foreign company that wants to do electricity installation or as a technician consultant.
Although there are a lot of types of representative offices, in this article, we will elaborate more on the KPPA and KP3A. If you need more info on how to open the other type of representative office, please contact us.
Benefits of Setting Up a Representative Office
Market Entry
A representative office provides a low-risk entry point into the Indonesian market, allowing companies to build relationships and understand market dynamics before making significant investments.
Cost-Efficiency
Setting up a representative office is more cost-effective compared to establishing a full-fledged subsidiary. It requires lower initial investment and operational costs.
Strategic Advantages
Having a local presence helps in establishing credibility, improving communication with local stakeholders, and gaining a deeper understanding of the market conditions.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Detailed Process
Initial Consultation: Engage with a local consultant or legal advisor to understand the requirements and process.Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents, including parent company details, BOD listing documents, and legal documents.Submission to BKPM: Submit the application and documents to the BKPM for approval.Approval and Licensing:Once approved, the BKPM will issue the necessary licenses and permits.Office Setup: Setting up the representative office by opening a bank account, hiring employees, tax and accounting setup, etc to support the operation of the representative office.
Timelines
The entire registration process can take between one to three months, depending on when you receive the reference letter issued by the Trade Attache in the Indonesian embassy where the parent company is located. After the reference letter is issued, the registration process can be started and it usually takes around 1 – 3 working days.
Necessary Documents for Registration
Required Paperwork
Letter of Intent: A formal letter expressing the intent to establish a representative office.Parent Company Documents: Articles of association, business license and Board of Directors listing documentsProof of Office Address: Lease agreement or property ownership documents.Power of Attorney: If a local consultant is handling the registration process.Identity Documents: passport (if foreigners) or KTP (if Indonesian)
Templates
Standard templates for letters and forms are often provided by the BKPM or can be sourced from legal consultants. In some cases, it may not be provided by the BKPM and therefore you must draft it by yourself or can request from the legal consultant which templates are acceptable.
Submission Process
Documents must be submitted to the relevant authorities.
Key Regulatory Authorities
BKPM (Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board)
The BKPM is the primary agency responsible for overseeing foreign investment and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Ministry of Trade
This ministry regulates trade-related activities and ensures that representative offices adhere to trade laws.
Other Relevant Bodies
Depending on the nature of the business, other regulatory bodies may include the Ministry of Public Works for construction companies and the Ministry of Social Affairs for non-profit organizations.
Cost of Establishing a Representative Office
Initial Costs
Initial costs include registration fees, legal consultation fees, and expenses related to setting up the office premises.
Ongoing Expenses
Ongoing expenses encompass office rent, salaries for local staff, and compliance-related costs such as annual reports and audits.
Budgeting Tips
Effective budgeting involves forecasting both initial setup costs and ongoing operational expenses. Engaging a financial consultant can help in creating a realistic budget.
Challenges and Considerations
Potential Hurdles
Common challenges include navigating bureaucratic processes, understanding local business culture, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Strategic Planning
A well-thought-out business plan that includes market analysis, risk assessment, and strategic objectives can help mitigate potential hurdles.
Risk Management
Engaging local legal and business experts can aid in identifying and managing risks associated with setting up and operating a representative office.
Post-Registration Compliance
Annual Reports
Representative offices are required to submit activity reports to the BKPM per semester and/or other relevant authorities.
Audits
Regular audits ensure compliance with local regulations and help in maintaining transparency in operations.
Legal Obligations
Maintaining a representative office involves adhering to various legal obligations, including tax filings and labor laws.
Taxation for Representative Offices
Tax Obligations
While representative offices do not engage in direct commercial activities, they are still required to file zero tax returns and may be subject to certain taxes such as withholding tax.
Employment and Staffing
Hiring Local vs. Expatriate Staff
Representative offices can hire both local and expatriate staff. Understanding local labor laws and regulations is crucial for compliance. In case you want to hire an expatriate, a ratio local and expatriate are applied. Before hiring the expatriate staff, please check the applicable ratio before you hire expatriate staff.
Employment Regulations
Employment contracts, benefits, and working conditions must comply with Indonesian labor laws. Engaging a local HR consultant can be beneficial.
Office Location and Setup
Choosing a Location
The representative office must be located in an office building in the capital Province (except for the KP3A). Selecting a strategic location that aligns with business objectives and operational needs is critical. Consider factors such as accessibility, cost, and infrastructure.
Office Requirements
Ensure the office meets all legal requirements and is adequately equipped to support the representative office’s activities.
Infrastructure
Invest in essential infrastructure, including communication systems, office furniture, and technology to support efficient operations.
Legal Representation and Consultancy
Importance of Legal Advice
Engaging a legal advisor ensures compliance with local laws and helps navigate complex regulatory processes.
Selecting a Consultant
Choose a consultant with expertise in setting up representative offices in Indonesia. Check credentials, experience, and client testimonials.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Examples of Successful Representative Offices
Review case studies of foreign companies that have successfully established representative offices in Indonesia to gain insights and best practices.
Lessons Learned
Learn from the experiences of other companies to avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions.
Conclusion
Establishing a representative office in Indonesia is a cost-effective way for foreign companies to explore the local market and build a presence without committing to full-scale operations. This process involves understanding the legal requirements, navigating the regulatory framework, and ensuring compliance with local laws. Different types of representative offices cater to various business needs, such as trade, construction, and non-profit activities. The benefits include market entry, cost-efficiency, and strategic advantages. However, companies must be prepared to manage potential challenges and maintain compliance through regular reporting and audits.
To successfully navigate the complexities of setting up a representative office in Indonesia, expert guidance is invaluable. For comprehensive support and professional assistance, visit CPT Corporate
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