Shangri-La Singapore has named Yusuf Yaran as resident manager. With over 20 years of international experience in hotel operations and F&B management, he brings extensive expertise to the hotel.
In his new role, Yusuf will oversee daily operations across the hotel’s dining outlets, banquet services and three wings, leading a team of over 1,000 staff.
He joins from Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa in Kota Kinabalu, where he led operations and a team of over 700 colleagues. A member of the Shangri-La group since 2006, Yusuf has held leadership roles across Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Shanghai, Manila and Singapore.
From left: PCMA’s Florence Chua, Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre’s Mala Dorasamy; and Universiti Malaya Medical Centre’s Nazirah Hasnan
Event organisers must place diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at the heart of event planning to deliver experiences that are not only impactful and engaging, but also relevant to today’s diverse audiences.
“Truly inclusive events don’t happen by chance. They are the product of intentional choices made in how programmes are curated and how the overall attendee experience is shaped,” stated Mala Dorasamy, CEO, Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.
From left: PCMA’s Florence Chua, Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre’s Mala Dorasamy; and Universiti Malaya Medical Centre’s Nazirah Hasnan
“By embedding inclusion into every stage of planning organisers can foster a sense of belonging and increase participation from underrepresented groups,” she added.
Key to inclusive event planning is making intentional decisions. For instance, curating a speaker lineup that reflects a diversity of backgrounds and viewpoints, ensuring venue layouts and content delivery methods are accessible, and creating safe spaces for open and respectful dialogue.
Dorasamy was the moderator for a session entitled: Embracing diversity & inclusion in business events at the recently-concluded Malaysia Business Events Week 2025.
Nazirah Hasnan, director of Universiti Malaya Medical Centre and immediate past president of the Malaysian Association of Rehabilitation Physicians, added that business events hold the potential to be powerful platforms for raising awareness and driving inclusion for people with disabilities.
“Event organisers shouldn’t just include people with disabilities as participants; they should be involved as vendors, speakers, and contributors across the entire event. That way, we normalise disability and make inclusion a natural part of every event experience,” she elaborated.
Building on this, Florence Chua, managing director APAC with PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association), highlighted often-overlooked aspects of inclusivity in the digital space. For example, online event platforms and digital content frequently fail to consider users with visual impairments.
“A visually attractive website filled with images is of no use if screen readers, speech recognition tools or audio-to-text software cannot interpret the content. Images should be accompanied by captions and alternative text. It’s a simple step that can make a significant difference for users who depend on assistive technology.”
Chua also emphasised the importance of accommodating neurodivergent attendees, who may require access to quiet spaces during events.
She also encouraged business events venues to train their staff to recognise and support attendees that have diverse needs with empathy.
“Training is essential. Staff should be equipped with the awareness and skills to proactively assist, creating an environment where everyone feels respected and supported.”
Korea MICE Expo 2025 (KME2025), the country’s largest exhibition for the business events industry, will be held at Coex in Seoul from November 3 to 5.
This year’s event is expected to draw approximately 5,000 domestic and international business events professionals, including over 200 key buyers and more than 450 exhibiting booths. Organisers anticipate over 5,000 business meetings will take place.
Korea MICE Expo 2024
Participation from the hotel and resort sectors has notably increased this year, a move expected to enhance business meeting satisfaction as these sectors are a high priority for buyers.
In addition to the main exhibition, KME2025 will be co-located with the Korea Expo Expo and a joint academic conference, offering attendees a broader range of insights and networking opportunities.
Under the slogan Meaningful Impact Connects Everyone, the event will also feature the MICE WAVE conference and Open Session programmes. The conference will cover a diverse range of topics, with collaborative sessions planned with international organisations like the Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS) and the global PCO network INCON.
Now in its 25th year, the event is hosted by the Korea MICE Association with official support from key government and tourism organisations, including the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Korea Tourism Organization, and the Seoul Metropolitan Government.
While most travellers are satisfied with their company’s hotel policy and preferred suppliers, there is still room for improvement
A new report by BCD Travel on business travel accommodation preferences reveals that midscale and upscale hotels remain the top choice for most professionals, with location, company policy, and cost being the key decision-making factors.
The research, which surveyed 1,035 business travellers worldwide, offers insights into booking habits, on-site amenity use, and loyalty programme participation. It also highlights a growing preference for apartments among travellers on extended trips, who value the added space and convenience.
While most travellers are satisfied with their company’s hotel policy and preferred suppliers, there is still room for improvement
Accommodation preferences
Most travellers opt for midscale (three-star) or upscale (four-star) hotels when travelling for business. Hotel location (77%) plays a major role in selecting a hotel, along with employer policy (56%) and cost (53%). Travellers who occasionally stay in apartments say this type of accommodation is more convenient for longer stays, providing more space and the option to prepare meals and do laundry.
Searching, booking and paying
Over three-quarters of business travellers use their company’s online booking tool (OBT) to search for accommodation, while a third turn to hotel websites or apps.
When booking, 84% use their company’s OBT, one in five book directly via supplier websites, while one in 10 call the hotel. Three-quarters pay with a corporate credit card. Virtual cards are used rarely. Three-quarters of travellers say their employer sets hotel rate limits, one in 10 report no limits and 18% don’t know if their employer sets rate limits.
Traveller behaviour
Personal preferences strongly influence hotel choices: 77% prefer chain hotels with familiar service standards and 73% stay at the same hotel when visiting a destination repeatedly.
Wi-Fi and breakfast are the most frequently used hotel services. Other popular amenities include on- site restaurants and bars, parking facilities, fitness centers and flexible check-in/check-out. Travellers also value well-being-related features, such as complimentary bottled water, gyms, pools, spas and healthy food options.
Travellers favour hotels that help them earn and maximise loyalty points, especially in North America where as many as 99% are members of a hotel loyalty programmme.
Overall, eight in 10 participate in at least one program and many are enrolled in two or more. Two-thirds often or always choose hotels aligned with their loyalty programs. Three-quarters say their employer allows them to keep points earned from business stays, while 21% are unsure.
Challenges
While seven in 10 are satisfied with their company’s hotel policy and preferred suppliers, there is still room for improvement. Common issues include slow Wi-Fi, breakfast not being included in the rate, outdated rooms and uncomfortable beds.
A third report no challenges during the booking process. Among those who do, the biggest challenge is insufficient rate limits set by employers.
Safety remains a concern. Three in 10 say they didn’t feel safe in their hotel location and seven in 10 double-lock their doors when in their rooms.
Sustainability
Half of travellers rarely or never consider environmental factors when booking hotels. Four in 10 don’t take any sustainability elements into account at all. Only one in five look for features like eco-certification, reduced single-use plastics, low carbon emissions, water-saving measures or limited housekeeping.
Vitafoods Asia 2025 will be held this coming September at QSNCC
Vitafoods Asia 2025, organised by Informa Markets, is set to advance Thailand’s food and nutraceutical industries from September 17 to 19 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok.
The event will bring together over 650 leading brands and more than 13,000 visitors from 38 countries, connecting the entire supply chain from raw ingredients to finished products.
Vitafoods Asia 2025 will be held this coming September at QSNCC
Attendees can expect a range of features designed to foster innovation and collaboration, including over 50 expert-led seminars on topics such as personalised nutrition and healthy ageing. The New Ingredients & New Products Zone will showcase next-generation health innovations, while the “A to C (Academics to Commercial)” initiative will bridge university research with commercial applications. The event will also feature an Innovation Tour, a Tasting Bar for sampling new products, and a Vitafoods Asia 5K Run for networking.
According to Market Minds Advisory, the Asia-Pacific nutraceutical market is projected to reach US$176.5 billion by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of eight per cent.
“The rapid growth of the food supplements and nutraceutical sector is fuelled by rising consumer health awareness, especially around non-communicable diseases like diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions,” said Rungphech Chitanuwat, regional portfolio director – ASEAN at Informa Markets.
Miami Marketta, a night market and venue space in Queensland, Australia, has launched its first interactive activity: The Art of Gin Experience.
During this one-hour session, participants will dive into the world of gin, exploring native botanicals and flavour profiles. The tasting will be paired with a curated selection of international cheeses, each chosen to complement and amplify the characteristics of the gins.
Embark on a botanical journey at Miami Marketta
After the experience, guests are encouraged to stay and make Miami Marketta their base for the evening. They can enjoy live music, browse the gift shop, and choose from over 20 on-site food trucks. A self-guided art walk is also available, offering a chance to discover the unique and emotive stories behind the art at the venue and in the surrounding neighbourhood.
According to Grant Trammell, Miami Marketta’s market development manager, such interactive experiences will change seasonally. “As we edge towards Christmas, for example, I’m planning to hold gingerbread house-making classes, as well as Christmas carol sessions.”
The Art of Gin Experience is also available for corporate groups, with or without venue bookings, and costs A$120 (US$78.30) per person.
Airport Dimensions, in partnership with Blue Sky Lounge, has opened its newest facility, Blue Sky Premier Lounge, at Makassar Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Indonesia.
This launch follows a strategic investment in Blue Sky Group’s subsidiary Bumi Liputan Angkasa, announced in March. The expansion brings Airport Dimensions’ expertise to Indonesia, adding to its network of over 80 airport lounges worldwide. As the 17th lounge in the Asia-Pacific region, it reflects growing demand for premium airport services and supports the company’s ongoing regional expansion.
The new lounge offers premium facilities and local experiences amid growing passenger traffic at Makassar Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport; photo by Blue Sky Group
Blue Sky Premier Lounge responds to increased passenger traffic at Makassar Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, which now handles more than one million travellers monthly. The lounge is located in the domestic terminal near security and a short walk from the gate, offering 500m² of space and seating for up to 137 guests.
The menu highlights local cuisine using regional ingredients, with an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring dishes such as Coto Makassar, Pisang Ijo, and I-ta Suki’s steamboat noodles. A live cooking station operates throughout the day, and a dedicated coffee corner serves Ippolito, Blue Sky’s in-house brand, locally roasted in Indonesia. Guests can also enjoy cold-pressed juices, unlimited Le Minerale water and soft drinks.
Service is designed to provide a seamless experience, beginning with dedicated ambassadors assisting passengers throughout the terminal and a buggy service transporting guests between the lounge and gate. The lounge offers two productivity zones with high-speed Wi-Fi, showers, restrooms, VIP private rooms available for an additional fee, separate prayer rooms for men and women, and a nursery room for families. A smoking wing is also available, equipped with air purification systems.
The lounge is accessible to all passengers regardless of airline or ticket class. Priority Pass and LoungeKey members may use the lounge, along with guests booking in advance or purchasing entry on the day, subject to availability. Entry is priced at 195,000 rupiah (US$11.90) per person, with promotional offers during the opening period.
This opening marks the eighth new lounge Airport Dimensions has launched since December, following openings at Jersey Airport, London Heathrow, Lima, Philadelphia, and San Diego. Each new lounge supports the company’s goal to meet rising traveller demand in key aviation hubs through operational expertise and strategic growth.
Errol McGlothan, president of Airport Dimensions, EMEA & APAC, commented: “This opening represents not just the expansion of our lounge network, but the strength of collaboration between two industry leaders. Together, we’ve developed a space that meets the rising demand for tourism and premium travel in Indonesia, while setting a new standard for airport lounges in the region.”
“We are excited to partner with Airport Dimensions to open the Blue Sky Premier Lounge at Makassar Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport. This lounge combines world-class comfort with local culture, offering travellers a premium experience in one of Indonesia’s fastest-growing cities,” added Linan Kurniahu, CEO of Blue Sky Group.
Tokyo-based hospitality group Trunk has appointed Toni Hinterstoisser as president – international, as the brand enters a new phase of global expansion. He will lead strategic planning and business development.
Hinterstoisser brings more than 30 years of experience in the development, operations and management of luxury and lifestyle hotels across Europe, North America and Asia. He was most recently vice president – Asia at citizenM Hotels, where he oversaw operations across the Asia-Pacific region.
Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium has appointed Mia Jaafar as its new hotel manager.
Jaafar has over 17 years of experience in hospitality, with leadership roles across Asia, including ANA InterContinental Tokyo, Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong and InterContinental Singapore. She is recognised for her people-focused leadership, customer-centric approach and innovative mindset.
Her vision for Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium emphasises enhancing guest experiences and creating an inclusive environment for both leisure and business travellers.
The Westin Yokohama has appointed Allen Howden as general manager.
Howden brings more than 25 years of international hospitality experience across Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. A long-standing member of Marriott International, he has held senior commercial roles at properties including W Bangkok, Swissôtel in London and Bangkok, and The Cadogan in London.
He most recently served as general manager of The St Regis Singapore.
Originally from the UK, Howden is recognised in the industry for his leadership and commitment to service.
A polished urban retreat designed for business travellers, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown combines thoughtful design, seamless service, and exceptional facilities.
The five-star property excels in backing its expansive facilities with seamless service and personalised attention, setting the benchmark for luxury in Bangkok.
He joins from Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa in Kota Kinabalu, where he led operations and a team of over 700 colleagues. A member of the Shangri-La group since 2006, Yusuf has held leadership roles across Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Shanghai, Manila and Singapore.
Hinterstoisser brings more than 30 years of experience in the development, operations and management of luxury and lifestyle hotels across Europe, North America and Asia. He was most recently vice president – Asia at citizenM Hotels, where he oversaw operations across the Asia-Pacific region.
Her vision for Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium emphasises enhancing guest experiences and creating an inclusive environment for both leisure and business travellers.
He most recently served as general manager of The St Regis Singapore.
