Asia/Singapore Thursday, 23rd April 2026
Page 105

Wellness tourism takes centrestage as SWWICE 2025 heads to Sabah

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The symbolic tying of the 10 pillars flag at the Sustainable Wholistic Wellness International Conference & Expo 2025 press conference on March 18, 2025

Global experts, wellness practitioners, and sustainability advocates are set to converge in Sabah, Malaysia, for the Sustainable Wholistic Wellness International Conference & Expo (SWWICE) 2025 from June 24 to July 3, 2025.

Themed Sustainable Wholistic Wellness Tourism, the event will explore integrated approaches to wellness tourism, emphasising sustainability, cultural heritage, and cutting-edge health and wellness solutions.

The symbolic tying of the 10 pillars flag at the Sustainable Wholistic Wellness International Conference & Expo 2025 press conference on March 18, 2025

The conference and expo will feature a programme including keynote speakers, panel discussions, interactive masterclasses, and an exhibition showcasing wellness products, sustainable innovations, and holistic health practices.

It will commence with a conference at Magellan Sutera Harbour (June 24-26), followed by a Wellness & Lifestyle Expo at the Sabah International Convention Centre (June 27-29), and conclude with a restorative retreat (July 1-3).

Organisers are inviting businesses aligned with wellness to participate in the expo, which will showcase a wide range of products and services, from mental and emotional well-being consultations to fitness equipment, healthy food options, and sustainable living solutions.

Panglima Christina Liew, Sabah’s minister of tourism, culture, and environment, underscored the suitability of Sabah as the host location, citing its “rich biodiversity and cultural heritage” which aligns perfectly with the conference’s themes of sustainable tourism and well-being. She also highlighted Sabah’s growing potential as a medical tourism destination, offering a unique blend of quality healthcare and serene natural landscapes.

In addition to the Sabah event, SWWICE2025 will also have a European edition taking place in Munich, Germany, from May 10-12, 2025. The German event will focus on Sustainable Wholistic Wellness in Workplaces,” exploring the application of the 10 Wholistic Wellness Pillars within organisations to foster healthier and more balanced work environments.

Asia Golf Tourism Convention puts spotlight on Central Vietnam

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Laguna Golf Lang Co (pictured) will use AGTC as a springboard to expand its market presence in Australia and New Zealand

Central Vietnam’s status as one of the world’s premier golf destinations is set to receive a boost when Danang hosts the 12th Asia Golf Tourism Convention (AGTC) from April 2-4, 2025.

Organised by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), the event will bring together leading figures from the global golf tourism industry, shining an international spotlight on the region’s courses, including Laguna Golf Lang Co, Montgomerie Links, and Ba Na Hills Golf Club – the core members of the Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) collective.

Laguna Golf Lang Co (pictured) will use AGTC as a springboard to expand its market presence in Australia and New Zealand

Hosting AGTC 2025 is expected to deliver substantial benefits to Central Vietnam’s economy, reinforcing Danang’s position as a leading golf tourism hub. The event will bring increased visibility, attract more inbound golf travellers, and generate business opportunities for hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related sectors. Additionally, AGTC will highlight the support of local authorities and tourism boards in advancing Danang’s golf industry, ensuring sustained growth and international recognition in the years to come.

“AGTC 2025 in Danang is a game-changer for golf tourism in Central Vietnam. It provides a platform to showcase our exceptional courses, hospitality, and the cultural richness of the region,” said Le Vo Hoang Van, club manager at Montgomerie Links.

Montgomerie Links is preparing extensively for AGTC 2025, focusing on hosting fam trips for international tour operators and media, and ensuring the course and hospitality offerings showcase the best of Vietnam. The club is also refining its partnership strategies and expanding its outreach through digital platforms and exclusive Stay & Play package offers.

Meanwhile, Ba Na Hills Golf Club will leverage its long-standing relationship with IAGTO to strengthen ties with leading golf tour operators, host site inspections, and promote its award-winning layout.

“AGTC provides an extraordinary platform to showcase the diversity and world-class quality of golf in Central Vietnam,” said Simon Mees, general manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “With our mountainous setting, exceptional design, and commitment to bringing international tournaments to the region, Ba Na Hills Golf Club is excited to contribute to Danang’s rising status on the global golf stage.”

Just a short distance north, Laguna Golf Lang Co will also leverage AGTC as a springboard to expand its market presence, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, and other longhaul destinations. This April, the club will launch a new online booking platform, offering direct tee time reservations and stay-and-play packages, while a dedicated B2B portal will streamline industry partnerships and enhance collaboration.

Collinson’s Airport Dimensions takes flight in Indonesia with Blue Sky Lounge investment

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The investment and partnership is part of Airport Dimensions’ broader strategy to expand its lounge network across APAC

Airport Dimensions, specialists in airport lounges and experiences and part of the Collinson Group, has expanded into Indonesia through a strategic investment in Blue Sky Group, the owner of the Blue Sky Lounge network.

The move sees Airport Dimensions acquire a 45 per cent stake in Bumi Liputan Angkasa, a subsidiary of Blue Sky Group, granting them a substantial foothold in the world’s second-fastest-growing aviation market.

The investment and partnership is part of Airport Dimensions’ broader strategy to expand its lounge network across APAC

This partnership marks a key milestone in Airport Dimensions’ expansion across the Asia-Pacific (APAC). Blue Sky Lounge currently operates premium lounges in major hubs such as Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, and Juanda International Airport in Surabaya.

The collaboration will immediately bolster Airport Dimensions’ network by adding 11 existing Blue Sky Lounges across Indonesia, located in airports located in Jakarta (Terminals 1, 2, and 3), Balikpapan, Samarinda, Batam, Bali, Pontianak, Palembang, Pekanbaru, and Surabaya.

The partnership has also yielded its first joint project, the upcoming launch of a brand-new airport lounge at Makassar Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport later this year.

This strategic investment aligns with Airport Dimensions’ broader strategy to expand its lounge network across APAC, building on recent successful ventures into Hong Kong with Kyra Lounge and Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club, and a flagship partnership with SASCO in Vietnam.

Philippe Leboeuf leads Dorchester Collection as CEO

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Dorchester Collection has appointed Philippe Leboeuf as CEO, effective June 2025.

A seasoned hotelier, Leboeuf joins from Raffles London, where he served as managing director.

With extensive experience in the luxury sector across multiple continents, he has held senior leadership roles, including director general of Concorde Hotels, owned by Taittinger, overseeing 19 owned and 70 affiliated hotels. He also served as a Board director of Leading Hotels of the World.

New IMBA Theatre to transform Singapore’s cultural scene

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IMBA Theatre, Singapore’s first venue dedicated to large-scale immersive experiences, will open at Gardens by the Bay in December 2025. Presented by the new entity IMBA (Immersive Media Based Arts), created by local edutainment group H&B, the theatre aims to engage audiences with immersive storytelling and big ideas in emotional ways.

IMBA Theatre will offer year-round arts and culture events at Gardens by the Bay, featuring a versatile space that blends technology and creativity. It will showcase local and global exhibitions, performances, and more, encouraging audiences to engage with art in new ways.

IMBA Theatre’s Gallery Space is designed for traditional and mixed media showcases; photo by IMBA

In collaboration with ACRE Design, Arina International Holdings, DP Architects, and Kaizen Architecture, the new venue uses digital and media technology to host interactive exhibitions, live performances, and cultural showcases by local and global artists.

IMBA Theatre will feature a 1,858m² Black Box Theatre with a 12.5m-high projection wall, designed for exhibitions and events. The 1,161m² Gallery Space, with a height of 6.5m, will host media showcases. Retail and dining experiences will also be available.

IMBA Theatre will provide a platform for artistic exchange, bringing together local and international creatives through immersive storytelling. It will showcase Singapore’s diverse arts scene and offer an evolving selection of programmes. Partnering with London-based Lightroom, a leader in immersive storytelling, IMBA will deliver world-class experiences. The Theatre will open in December with The Botero Show, an immersive exhibition featuring works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero, including his iconic sculptures displayed across indoor and outdoor spaces.

IMBA Theatre will highlight Singapore’s cultural heritage, showcasing the Nanyang style, which blends Chinese and Western techniques to portray South-east Asian themes, along with murals reflecting the city’s past.

In collaboration with Nanyang Polytechnic’s School of Design & Media, IMBA will develop local and global IP content, supporting the growth of talent and innovation to enrich Singapore’s cultural and creative industries.

Michael Lee, CEO of H&B, said: “IMBA Theatre is more than just a venue; it is a space designed for scale and adaptability to inspire wonder and allow audiences to foster deeper connections with the arts and the world around us. Conceptualised by IMBA, the Theatre will be a portal to immersive encounters to create moments of wonder and a lifetime of inspiration. It will merge technology, creativity and impactful storytelling in the way we showcase local talent and global artistry. This is a testament to our commitment to creating transformative experiences that bridge tradition and innovation, and cement Singapore’s position as a global cultural hub.”

Felix Loh, CEO of Gardens by the Bay, added: “Gardens by the Bay constantly refreshes our offerings so that there is always something novel for our visitors… IMBA Theatre will reach out to both regular and new audiences by offering innovative immersive experiences amid the iconic setting of the gardens.”

Millennium boosts winter events in Northland & Bay of Islands with special packages

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Function space at Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands

Millennium Hotels & Resorts is reinforcing its commitment to Northland and the Bay of Islands, aiming to drive increased visitation, corporate conferences, and events during the winter season.

To entice event organisers, Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands is offering exclusive corporate and conference packages for events held between May 1, 2025, and September 30, 2025. These packages include premium accommodation, meeting space offers, and tailored itineraries featuring cultural experiences, adventure tourism, and gourmet dining.

Function space at Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands

Accommodation rates start at NZ$179 per night, with breakfast included. Free venue hire for 50+ attendees and a minimum of 10 rooms per night. Terms and conditions apply.

Millennium Hotels & Resorts has also launched targeted marketing campaigns showcasing Northland’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse activities to audiences across New Zealand and key international markets, including Australia.

Above and beyond

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1. Aboriginal Heritage Walk, Melbourne
Set within the lush Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, this Aboriginal Heritage Walk offers a deep dive into the culture and customs of the Kulin Nation. The 90-minute experience is led by a First Peoples guide through an exploration of native plants used for food, tools, and medicine while sharing stories of Country.

Ideal for private groups of up to 20 per guide, with additional guides available for larger bookings, this immersive journey provides a meaningful connection to Australia’s Indigenous heritage in Melbourne’s 
city centre.

2. Farmer’s Daughters, Melbourne
Farmer’s Daughters brings the rich flavours of regional Gippsland to Melbourne, offering a true artisan farm-to-table experience across three distinct levels. The Rooftop, the venue’s largest space, delivers a greenhouse-inspired setting with seasonal cocktails, Gippsland wines, and curated menus showcasing the region’s best produce including their popular soda bread.

The space accommodates up to 48 seated guests or 70 for cocktail receptions, with customisable F&B packages. Heated and weatherproof, this gourmet oasis with a retractable roof is a great way to experience the region while remaining in the city.

3. Wintjiri Wiru, Northern Territory
Set atop a desert dune with panoramic views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, Wintjiri Wiru blends Anangu storytelling with cutting-edge technology. The Sunset Dinner version of the show begins with a gourmet hamper featuring native ingredients, enjoyed in an open-air theatre under the desert sky.

As night falls, choreographed drones, lasers, and projections bring the sacred Mala story to life. This immersive experience accommodates up to 200 guests cocktail-style, with multilingual narration devices available on request.

As custodians of the land, Anangu hold the Mala story from Kaltukatjara to Uluru.

4. Reef & Island In A Day, Cairns
A new partnership between Zoom Helicopters and Sunlover Reef Cruises introduces the Reef & Island In 
A Day experience, an exhilarating mix of flight and reef exploration.

Groups of 10 to 600 pax can opt for a 10-minute scenic flight or a 25-minute heli transfer before arriving at the Moore Reef pontoon. With activities involving a semi-submersible, glass-bottom boat, and helmet diving, guests have adventurous options without getting their hair wet, before enjoying a premium lunch and island adventure – great for team bonding.

5. Minjerribah Culture, Food & Wildlife Tour, Brisbane
Kiff & Culture designs immersive, high-end group experiences across Brisbane and beyond.

For a deeper cultural connection, the Minjerribah Culture, Food & Wildlife Tour takes groups of two to 24 pax on a guided exploration of Stradbroke Island, combining Indigenous storytelling, wildlife encounters, and a premium seafood feast. Bespoke itineraries, including heli-tours and multi-day adventures, cater to business events of multiple sizes.

Alternatively, the Fire to Fork dining experience showcases locally sourced produce slow-cooked over open flames in stunning alfresco settings, with options for wine pairings, and at private locations such as Roma Street Parklands.

Uno Loco Group acquires The Conference Company

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From left: The Conference Company’s James Brehaut; incoming CEO Thea Farrant Adam; The Conference’s Company Stephen Noble and Jan Tonkin; and Uno Loco Group’s Blair Glubb

Uno Loco Group has acquired The Conference Company, bringing together two highly regarded organisations in the New Zealand industry.

Jan Tonkin, managing director of The Conference Company, and Blair Glubb, chief executive of Uno Loco Group, announced the acquisition early in March.

From left: The Conference Company’s James Brehaut; incoming CEO Thea Farrant Adam; The Conference’s Company Stephen Noble and Jan Tonkin; and Uno Loco Group’s Blair Glubb

Tonkin, a former president of the International Association of Professional Conference Organisers (IAPCO) and past BEIA Board Member is widely respected for her contributions to the business events sector in both New Zealand and Australia.

During the transition, Tonkin will remain with The Conference Company for six months, supporting incoming CEO Thea Farrant Adam.

Fusion Hotel Group appoints new regional director for South-east Asia

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Fusion Hotel Group has named Markus Gloor as the new regional director for South-East Asia. In this role, Gloor will be responsible for the opening and management of new properties outside Thailand and Vietnam.

With three decades of experience in the hospitality sector in Switzerland and Thailand, Gloor previously served as the director of operations in Thailand, where he played a key role in expanding the brand.

Ta’aktana names new GM

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Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo in Indonesia has appointed Peter-Paul Kleiss as the new general manager.

With a distinguished career across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, he joined Ta’aktana in 2023 as director of operations. His dedication to operational excellence and improving guest experiences led to his promotion to general manager.

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