by | Mar 17, 2025 | Business
A digital comic series co-designed by RMIT students, educators and violence prevention experts will challenge online disinformation and harmful narratives that particularly target young men.
The Adventures of Soy Boy and Friends follows a team of fictional characters as they navigate the challenges of university life, one algorithm and creditable source at a time.
The designs were created by RMIT graduate Millie Ovenden, from a series of engagements with male students and experts.
The first edition of the comic, coinciding with Respect at Uni Week, explores real students’ lived experience of the pressures that some young men feel when fake news becomes truth amongst their peers and in their classrooms.
Find out more about the project here.
Quote attributable to RMIT Prevention and Respect manager Shelley Hewson-Munro
“This project highlights how students, educators and researchers are still working together to challenge how we care for one another, and how campuses can be safe and respectful places where we all can thrive.”
by | Mar 17, 2025 | Business
Ace Digital Brings Expert Insights on Navigating Career & Life Transitions
In a fast-paced world where career pressures, personal aspirations, and societal expectations converge, many Singaporean professionals find themselves at a crossroads in midlife. Questions about career fulfillment, personal growth, and future direction become more pressing, often leading to self-doubt and uncertainty. But what if these challenges could be transformed into opportunities for growth?
At Ace Digital, we believe in bringing to light the most pressing issues that Singaporeans care about, by interviewing experts in various fields. This time, our team spoke with renowned resilience coach Grace Wong, author of Midlife Clarity Breakthrough: Stop Doubting, Start Living, to uncover how resilience coaching is helping professionals in their 30s to 50s navigate this crucial phase with confidence and clarity.
The Midlife Shift: Crisis or Breakthrough?
For many professionals, midlife isn’t about crisis—it’s about transition. Grace Wong emphasizes that this stage is a natural point of reflection and realignment. “Many people wake up one day wondering if they are truly fulfilled in their careers and personal lives,” she shares. “It’s not about starting over—it’s about unlocking the potential that’s already within you.”
Instead of settling for stagnation, resilience coaching helps individuals identify their core values, clarify their goals, and take decisive action toward a more authentic life. Wong calls this the Midlife Clarity Breakthrough, a mindset shift that turns self-doubt into confidence and inaction into purpose-driven steps.
Why Resilience Coaching Works
A common misconception is that coaching is only for those in crisis. In reality, it is a proactive tool for personal and professional growth. Wong highlights that resilience coaching is about strategic self-discovery and empowerment, providing individuals with:
Clarity – Understanding personal values and aligning life choices accordingly.
Confidence – Overcoming fears and self-imposed limitations.
Actionable Strategies – Practical steps to create meaningful change.
“Coaching isn’t about fixing what’s broken,” Grace explains. “It’s about enhancing what’s already strong and unlocking new possibilities for success.”
Steps to Achieve Midlife Clarity
Grace shares practical strategies that professionals can implement to gain clarity and direction:
✅ Reflect on Core Values – Take time to identify what truly matters. Journaling or meditation can help surface deep-seated beliefs and desires.
✅ Define Success on Your Own Terms – Instead of chasing conventional milestones, focus on what personally fulfills you.
✅ Take Small, Purposeful Steps – Even minor changes—such as exploring a new career path or picking up a long-forgotten passion—can create a ripple effect.
✅ Surround Yourself with a Support System – Engage with mentors, coaches, and peers who align with your vision and aspirations.
✅ Celebrate Progress – Recognize and appreciate small wins. Every step forward builds momentum.
The Power of Reinvention
Grace Wong firmly believes that midlife is not an ending but a new beginning. Many successful professionals have reinvented themselves in their 40s and 50s, finding greater fulfillment and purpose than ever before.
Her book, Midlife Clarity Breakthrough: Stop Doubting, Start Living, provides actionable insights and strategies for anyone seeking to redefine their midlife years with confidence and clarity.
For more information on resilience coaching and how to unlock your own breakthrough, Grace Wong can be reached at ggbreakthrough.com.
Ace Digital: Bringing the Conversations That Matter
At Ace Digital, we are dedicated to delivering expert insights on the topics Singaporeans care about most. Our mission is to highlight key issues, spark meaningful discussions, and provide actionable solutions.
If there’s a topic you want us to explore or an expert you’d like us to feature, reach out to us! Your voice shapes the stories we tell.
by | Mar 17, 2025 | Business
Indonesia, with its dynamic economy and diverse culture, presents numerous opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs. However, navigating the visa landscape can be challenging. If you’re planning to work in Indonesia, it’s crucial to understand the differences between the KITAS for Working Purpose and the Business Visa (BEVISA). This article will provide a comprehensive comparison of these two permits, discussing their purposes, application processes, and benefits. Whether you’re looking to engage in employment or conduct business activities, this guide will help you make an informed decision about the right permit for your needs.
What is a KITAS Visa?
A KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is a limited stay permit that allows foreigners to live and work in Indonesia. It’s essential for anyone who plans to stay in Indonesia for an extended period and engage in employment. KITAS is available for the period of stay either 1 year or 2 years
What is a Business Visa (BEVISA)?
A Business Visa, or BEVISA, is designed for business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations. It does not permit employment or any form of work in Indonesia. Business visa is available for single entry or multiple entry.
Key Differences Between KITAS and Business Visa
KITASBusiness VisaPurpose and UsageAllows employment in Indonesia.Does not allow employment; only for business-related activities.Application ProcessMore complex with more documents required.Less complicated with fewer documents required.Processing TimeTakes at least 2 months with a work permit.Takes 5-7 working days.Application SubmissionSubmitted to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) prior to Immigration.Submitted to Indonesian Immigration only.
Understanding the KITAS Visa
Eligibility and Requirements
To obtain a KITAS Visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, which usually include a job offer from an Indonesian company. The requirements typically involve providing extensive documentation, such as:
Valid passportJob offer letterCompany documentsHealth certificatesProof of insurance
Application Process
Job Offer: Secure a job offer from an Indonesian employer.MOM Approval: The employer applies for a work permit from the Ministry of Manpower.Visa Application: Once the work permit is approved, apply for the KITAS at Indonesian Immigration.Issuance of KITAS: After approval, the KITAS is issued, allowing the applicant to work and reside in Indonesia.
Duration and Renewal
KITAS is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually. The renewal process involves similar steps and documentation as the initial application.
Understanding the Business Visa (BEVISA)
Eligibility and Requirements
The Business Visa is suitable for those intending to engage in business activities without employment. Requirements for the BEVISA include:
Valid passportSponsor letter from an Indonesian companyTravel itineraryFinancial proof to cover stay
Application Process
Preparation of Documents: Gather the necessary documents such as sponsor letter, passport, travel itinerary, financial proof to cover the stay.Submission to Immigration: Submit the application to Indonesian Immigration.Approval and Issuance: Once approved, the visa is issued, typically within 5-7 working days.
Duration and Limitations
A Business Visa is with a single entry valid for up to 60 days and can be extended. Meanwhile for multiple entry visas, it is valid for 1 year with a maximum stay per visit is 60 days. You must note that with a business visa, it strictly prohibits any form of employment or earning income in Indonesia.
Benefits of a KITAS
Employment Opportunities:The primary benefit of a KITAS Visa is the legal ability to work in Indonesia. It provides foreign nationals the right to take up employment, which is essential for professionals moving to Indonesia for job opportunities.Residency Status: KITAS holders can reside in Indonesia for the duration of their employment, offering stability and the ability to bring family members under a dependent KITAS.Access to Services:Holders of KITAS Visa have access to various services and benefits, including opening bank accounts, obtaining a driver’s license, and more.
Benefits of a Business Visa
Ease of Application:One of the most significant advantages of the Business Visa is its straightforward application process. It requires fewer documents and is quicker to obtain compared to the KITAS.Short-Term Business Needs:The Business Visa is ideal for short-term business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities. It’s perfect for professionals who need to visit Indonesia frequently for business purposes.Flexibility:The Business Visa offers flexibility for business travelers who do not intend to stay in Indonesia long-term or engage in employment.
Challenges of a KITAS Visa
Complexity: Obtaining a KITAS can be a lengthy and complex process, involving multiple steps and interactions with different governmental bodies.Cost: The process of obtaining and renewing a KITAS can be costly, involving fees for work permits, visa processing, and legal assistance.
Challenges of a Business Visa
Employment Restrictions: A significant limitation of the Business Visa is the restriction on employment. It cannot be used to engage in any form of work or earn income in Indonesia. Limited Stay: The Business Visa is designed for short-term stays, which might not be suitable for those looking for long-term residency or repeated, prolonged visits.
Conclusion
Choosing between a KITAS and a Business Visa depends on your purpose and plans in Indonesia. If you aim to work and live in Indonesia, the KITAS is the appropriate choice despite its complexity. However, if your needs are short-term and business-related without employment, the Business Visa is simpler and quicker to obtain.
If you need assistance with your visa application or have any questions about the process, our experienced team is here to help. Visit our website and contact us for expert guidance and support in navigating Indonesia’s visa requirements.
by | Mar 16, 2025 | Business
March 16, 2025 – VRITIMES, a leading press release distribution platform, is pleased to announce its partnership with Metro Guide and Metro Clark Guide, two premier online platforms dedicated to providing business, lifestyle, and tourism news in the Philippines. This collaboration aims to give businesses, entrepreneurs, and tourism-related industries a powerful avenue to amplify their stories and connect with a wider audience.
By integrating VRITIMES’ cutting-edge distribution technology with Metro Guide and Metro Clark Guide, press releases covering business developments, local events, and travel highlights will now reach a more engaged readership. Whether it’s a new restaurant opening, a tourism initiative, or a business expansion, this partnership ensures that important updates are effectively communicated to both locals and visitors.
“Partnering with Metro Guide and Metro Clark Guide is an exciting step forward in our mission to help businesses share their stories with the right audiences,” said Ferry Bayu, CEO of VRITIMES. “Both platforms have established themselves as go-to sources for regional insights, and together, we are making it easier for businesses and organizations to gain visibility where it matters most.”
As trusted sources of information for locals and travelers, Metro Guide and Metro Clark Guide provide valuable content on business growth, lifestyle trends, and tourism hotspots. With the support of VRITIMES, both platforms can now offer businesses a seamless way to distribute their press releases and gain meaningful exposure.
This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to supporting economic growth and tourism by ensuring that relevant news reaches the right audience at the right time. Through this partnership, businesses, event organizers, and tourism stakeholders can leverage a more effective way to engage with their target markets.
by | Mar 15, 2025 | Business
Embarking on the journey of establishing a business in Indonesia necessitates a firm grasp of the company registration process. Aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned investors alike are met with a maze of legal intricacies and procedural hurdles. From selecting the appropriate legal structure to navigating regulatory requirements, every step demands careful consideration. Amidst this complexity, understanding the nuances of company registration is crucial for laying a solid foundation for future growth and success. In this article, we delve deep into the Indonesian company registration process, shedding light on key procedures and insights to empower businesses in their pursuit of market entry and expansion.
In terms of business development, the Indonesian market offers competitive value and opportunity. Indonesia is among the most promising countries for business due to its enormous labor force, strategic position, and plenty of natural resources. Additionally, the government has implemented various reforms to attract foreign investors and simplify the process of starting businesses in the country.
However, there are a lot of intricate factors to take into account for foreigners wishing to conduct business in Indonesia. As an illustration:
Determine whether your company is a representative office or has direct foreign investors, specifying the type of legal body it represents.Identify the industry in which your company’s legal entity will operate.Assess whether foreign investment is permitted in this sector, and if so, determine the ownership percentage permitted.
Continue reading below to learn more about the Indonesian International Company Registration Process.
You ought to be aware of and comprehend the minimal capital requirements, regulatory framework, organizational structure, mandatory activity reports, tax laws, labor force usage in Indonesia, and so on. Here’s how to establish a foreign business in Indonesia:
In fact, this kind of firm is better suited for establishment in its early stages. Among its benefits are:
Reasonably quick and simple to operate.Neither a large investment nor a capital deposit are necessary.simple structure to create. Only appoint a Chief Representative Office to run the representative office in Indonesia
Nevertheless, this method may not be flexible enough for some kinds of businesses. The reason is that your company will have a legal umbrella in Indonesia, but it is not allowed to take profits from sales or engage in business transactions. So, the representative office was better set up for market research and marketing purposes before establishing a full legal body.
2. Foreign business organization PT. PMA
The Act governs the process of forming a foreign firm in Indonesia through Foreign Investment (PMA). The PMA is essentially a limited corporation (PT).
Meanwhile, funds or investments from foreign entities are referred to as foreign direct investment, or FDI. FDI is governed in Indonesia by:
Investment Law No. 25/2007.Law No. 40/2007 Concerning Limited Liability Company (as partially amended by Government Regulation In Lieu of Law No 2/2022).Perpres No. 10/2021 as amended by Perpres No. 49/2021 concerning Investment Business Fields. Positive Investment List Disclosure.
Any company with shares owned by foreigners is required to register as a PMA. In the meantime, positive investment lists all company sectors that are available to full-owned ownership as well as those that are restricted to specific restrictions for foreign investment.
Depending on your business activities, a further business license from the government may be a requirement for each PT PMA that registers in Indonesia. You still need to take care of several licenses with the local government after that.
You should think about hiring a local consultant to help you with the licensing and legal matters. They would be of great assistance.
The method by which PT. PMA is created
There are a few steps you must take when setting up a PMA, such as:
Get approval from Kemenkumham, the Ministry of Human Rights and Law, for the name of your business.Deed of Establishment by Public NotaryAcquire the company’s formation certificateAcquiring a mandatory tax identification.Acquire the corporate registration numberBusiness license (as necessary depending on the business activities)
Terms of PT. PMA’s establishment
Establishing a PT PMA in Indonesia can be a remarkable and enduring process. On the other hand, the procedure might be simpler and quicker if all the conditions were satisfied. What prerequisites must be met in order for PT PMA to be established in Indonesia?
1. Minimum Capital Requirement for Foreign-Owned Company
In Indonesia, the minimum capital requirement for a foreign-owned company is IDR 10 billion or equivalent to approximately USD680,000. For the purpose of establishing a PT PMA, a statement letter/commitment letter is required to be signed by the shareholders as the bank account of the PT PMA is not yet be able to set up.
2. Shareholder Requirements
In compliance with the law, the company must issue shares if the PMA operates in the form of a PT enterprise. This necessitates a minimum of two shareholders, each of whom can also act as a director and commissioner.
3. Location Consideration
Foreign investor owners have the freedom to establish their businesses in any part of Indonesia. However, it is important to note that the government emphasizes the establishment and launch of industries within designated commercial business area (not housing complex or apartment).
Summary
In conclusion, establishing a business in Indonesia entails a comprehensive understanding of the company registration process. From selecting the appropriate legal structure to navigating regulatory requirements, entrepreneurs encounter various challenges. Two primary methods for foreign companies include setting up a representative office or forming a Foreign Business Entity (PT. PMA). While the former offers simplicity and ease of operation, it restricts profit-making activities. Conversely, PT. PMA requires adherence to specific laws and regulations, including minimum capital requirements, shareholder criteria, and location considerations. Throughout the process, collaboration with local consultants can streamline licensing and legal matters. Ultimately, achieving success in Indonesia’s dynamic market requires meticulous planning, compliance with regulations, and strategic decision-making.
Let us ease the process of registering an international company in Indonesia! Register your business here with CPT Corporate!
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