GainingEdge has announced that Steen Jakobsen will begin work as the company’s new CEO on September 1, 2025.
Jakobsen has more than 25 years of international experience in the global tourism and business events industry. He served as director of the Copenhagen Convention Bureau for 14 years, followed by 10 years as vice president of Dubai Business Events where he oversaw the establishment of the Dubai Association Centre.
For the past couple of years, Jakobsen served as chief financial officer of Tetra Pharm Technologies – a Danish biopharmaceutical company.
Throughout his career, Jakobsen has made significant contributions to the global business events community, serving on various international boards and committees. His leadership roles include serving as board chair of the BestCities Global Alliance, and vice president of the Board of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). In 2024, he was honoured with ICCA’s most prestigious recognition for contributions to the international meetings industry, the Moises Shuster Award.
The Delegation Lobby will be unveiled as an elevated guest arrival experience
The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), a landmark of Filipino architecture and culture, is undergoing an extensive renovation to prepare for its 50th anniversary and the Philippine hosting of the ASEAN Summit in 2026.
The centre, which temporarily closed five months ago, is set to reopen in October 2025.
The Delegation Lobby will be unveiled as an elevated guest arrival experience
The project is guided by a commitment to preserve the 1976 vision of its designer, National Artist for Architecture Leandro V. Locsin. Artisans are restoring the building’s original brutalist aesthetic, sharpening concrete elements and textures that have faded over time.
While maintaining its historical integrity, the PICC is also receiving significant technological upgrades that would boost its business events capability. These include the installation of audiovisual equipment, gigantic LED walls, complex-wide high-speed Wi-Fi, enhanced security systems, and energy-efficient lighting.
A key feature of the PICC is its collection of hundreds of priceless artworks. While most pieces were moved for safekeeping, four permanently installed cultural treasures—including “Pagdiriwang” by National Artist Jose Joya and sculptures by National Artist Arturo Luz – are being protected with strict conservation protocols during the renovation.
Upon its reopening, the PICC will also unveil a newly-curated art collection from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) is Asia’s first international convention centre and a National Cultural Treasure. Designed by National Artist Leandro V. Locsin, it has hosted historic global and local events since 1976.
Amari Kuala Lumpur’s Veria Ballroom in banquet set-up
Onyx Hospitality Group has launched its first-even chain-wide business events campaign, Onyx Onward – Unlock Double Benefits That Matter Most.
The campaign offers clients who book 10 or more paid room nights the chance to choose two exclusive benefits from a list of six options. This offer is available across Onyx’s properties in Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, and Sri Lanka.
Amari Kuala Lumpur’s Veria Ballroom in banquet set-up
The available benefits include a five per cent rebate on the master bill for room and banquet package revenue, or one complimentary room upgrade for every 15 paid rooms per night (up to three upgrades).
Planners can also opt for a 15 per cent discount on F&B at all dining venues, or choose to receive one complimentary room for every 15 paid rooms per night (up to three complimentary rooms). Other options include a one-time upgrade to a themed coffee break, or early check-in and late check-out for the organiser’s room (up to three rooms).
This campaign is valid for bookings made until October 31, 2025. The five per cent rebate must be used within one year, excluding peak seasons, while the banquet package includes both meeting packages and F&B services for lunch or dinner.
Business travellers are increasingly both saving corporate funds and spending their own money to enhance their trips
The seventh annual Global Business Travel Survey from SAP Concur survey revealed that business travellers are redefining how they manage expenses on the road, blending a desire for comfort with cost-saving measures.
Business travellers are increasingly both saving corporate funds and spending their own money to enhance their trips
Travellers making the most of their travel allowance
Most business travellers (85%) have recently started taking steps to make ends meet at the end of a business trip – ranging from making sure not to overspend on daily allowances to making the most of freebies.
A significant 43% eat cheaper meals in order to underspend on their per diem, while nearly a third (31%) prepare their own meals rather than dining out. Some business travellers also benefit by taking leftover food and drinks (25%) and packing the complimentary amenities from hotels and conferences (27%) to return home with. There are clear generational differences: 96% of Gen-Z travellers take steps to make the most of their travel allowance, compared to 88% of millennials and 75% of Gen X.
Travellers splash the cash on business trips
Different spending patterns apply on a business versus a private trip. Just over one in three employees (36%) opt for higher quality hotels or premium rooms when travelling for work, while nearly two out of five (37%) book direct flights, even if they are more expensive.
They are also more likely to take private transport options, such as Uber rides (36%) and spend more dining in nicer restaurants (32%). The generations most likely to adjust their spending behaviour are Gen Z (95%) and millennials (89%), followed by 69% of Gen X.
Travellers will spend their own money on upgrades
Travel budget cuts are affecting the experienced travellers have on the road. While employees try to make the most of their travel policy, the majority of travellers (87%) are also willing to spend their own money to enhance a trip. Younger employees are more likely to invest in their experience, with 96% of Gen-Z and 91% of millennial travellers willing to spend their own funds on upgrades, compared to 77% of Gen X.
Travellers will pay their way for perks including higher-quality accommodations (41%), an additional hotel night to avoid a long travel day (38%), and seating upgrades (37%). They are also willing to shell out for more sustainable travel options (29%), more expensive routes that avoid layovers or use their preferred airport (31%), or preferred airlines or hotels (32%).
SAP Concur surveyed 3,750 business travellers in 24 markets, out of which 750 respondents were from Australia, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand and Singapore, revealed that nearly half (45%) of business travellers in Asia-Pacific region expect travel budgets to stagnate or decrease in 2025. A further 87% report cuts to allowances over the past year.
Six Senses Uluwatu, Bali has appointed Armand Thieblemont as director of sustainability. He also takes on the role of regional director of sustainability, supporting the brand’s strategy and operations across Asia-Pacific while based in Bali.
Thieblemont began his hospitality career in Indonesia and joined Six Senses Zighy Bay in 2022 as sustainability director. He has contributed to key initiatives, including the opening of Six Senses Kyoto and the reopening of Six Senses Shaharut.
In his new role, he will lead environmental stewardship, sustainability innovations, and community outreach at Six Senses Uluwatu, with the aim of integrating luxury hospitality and sustainability.
An aerial view of Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
Come mid-September, Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu will unveil Pogun Tokou, a purpose-built venue situated between the resort’s beachfront and its protected nature reserve.
Pogun Tokou can be booked as a venue for welcome group dinners, cultural welcome ceremonies, fireside dialogues and interactive workshops such as batik printing, blowpipe challenges, rice wine making and weaving.
An aerial view of Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
On request, traditional cultural performances by the Shangri-La Cultural Troupe can also be arranged.
“This inspirational space features three traditional homes, each rooted in indigenous architectural styles which reflect our location in Tuaran and the diversity of cultural of our people and community around us,” shared Fiona Hagan, general manager of Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu.
Constructed entirely from locally-harvested bamboo using traditional, low-impact techniques, the venue embodies eco-conscious design and community craftsmanship.
Developed in collaboration with local architects and local artisans, the project reflects deep community involvement, cultural revival, and eco-conscious design.
In October 2024, Shangri-La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu became the first hotel in Malaysia and within the Shangri-La Group to receive the ISO 20121 certification for sustainable event management.
Since receiving the certification, the hotel has seen increased engagement from ESG-conscious planners, stronger brand preference, and repeat business from clients who prioritise sustainability, said Hagan.
SilverDoor’s Stuart Winstone; Ascott’s Kar Ling Wong; SilverDoor’s Marcus Angell; Synergy’s Henry Luebbert; SilverDoor’s Angie Angell; and Synergy’s Jack Jensky; photo by SilverDoor and Synergy
SilverDoor and Synergy Global Housing have announced a merger that will combine their operations under a single entity.
The newly-formed joint venture will be led by Habicus Group, SilverDoor’s shareholder, with The Ascott Limited, Synergy’s parent company, holding a strategic interest. Following a brief integration period, expected to be completed in early 2026, the combined business will operate under the SilverDoor brand.
SilverDoor’s Stuart Winstone; Ascott’s Kar Ling Wong; SilverDoor’s Marcus Angell; Synergy’s Henry Luebbert; SilverDoor’s Angie Angell; and Synergy’s Jack Jensky; photo by SilverDoor and Synergy
The merged company will utilise two key brands: SilverDoor for its global agency services and Synergy by SilverDoor for its corporate housing management business. Synergy by SilverDoor will continue to manage its own branded properties in core markets like the US, UK, and Ireland, with plans for further international expansion.
The new entity will be led by SilverDoor’s founder and executive chairman, Marcus Angell, and current CEO, Stuart Winstone.
According to a press release, the merger will benefit customers with increased coverage and advanced online booking technology, while supply chain partners will also benefit from a simplified, single channel connection.
The combined business will be headquartered in London, employ over 450 people, and have operations in 16 cities across nine countries.
The decor of the lounge is inspired by the vibrant spirit of Hong Kong
Plaza Premium Group has opened its second Plaza Premium First lounge at Hong Kong International Airport’s (HKIA) West Hall.
The new Plaza Premium First offers a serene environment with stylish interiors, cosy seating, and a 180-degree tarmac view. The lounge also serves as a gallery, showcasing a curated selection of masterpieces from renowned artists like Zao Wou-Ki, Chu Teh Chun, and Zeng Yang, celebrating a blend of Eastern and Western art traditions.
The decor of the lounge is inspired by the vibrant spirit of Hong Kong
In addition, the new lounge is the first independent lounge at HKIA to feature a fully-certified Halal menu, blending global cuisine with local Hong Kong favourites and popular South-east Asian dishes. Culinary offerings include a wide range of à la carte options, such as Vietnamese Duck Pho, Thai Style Sauteed Spicy Chicken Rice, and a hearty breakfast menu with local specialties like Cantonese Congee.
Open daily from 06.00 to 01.00, guests can take advantage of bathrooms and a shower with complimentary amenities. For those needing to unwind, a neck and shoulder massage is available at Refreshhh by Aerotel. Other conveniences include high-speed Wi-Fi, flight information displays, charging stations, and a secure baggage storage service.
This new lounge complements Plaza Premium Group’s existing lounge in the East Hall.
Preferred Hotels & Resorts has made several senior appointments in Asia-Pacific, including Laurence Onfroy as vice president, business development, Asia Pacific; Eddie Wong as area managing director, Greater China & Australia; and Midori Kataoka as area managing director, Japan.
Based in Singapore, Onfroy will drive portfolio growth, strategic partnerships, and development of the sustainable brand Beyond Green.
From left: Laurence Onfroy, Eddie Wong and Midori Kataoka
Wong, based in Hong Kong, will lead growth and development initiatives across Greater China and Australia, while in Japan, Kataoka will oversee a portfolio of 50 member properties.
Swire Hotels has made three senior appointments: Mark Passmore as head of operations, Kristina Snaith-Lense as general manager of the upcoming House in Shenzhen, and Simon McHendry as general manager of The Upper House.
Passmore will oversee operations and design for all Swire Hotels properties in Asia, including The House Collective, EAST, and Headland Hotel. He has been with the group since 2015, leading key openings and most recently serving as director of operations for Chinese mainland.
From left: Mark Passmore, Kristina Snaith-Lense and Simon McHendry
Snaith-Lense will lead the Shenzhen House ahead of its 2027 launch, Swire Hotels’ first new opening in nine years, and will also oversee wellness projects across the group. She joined in 2011 and was most recently general manager of The Upper House.
McHendry will drive the continued growth of The Upper House and oversee Swire Hotels’ sales and revenue team. Since joining in 2016, he has held senior roles at East Beijing and The Temple House, and most recently served as head of development & projects.
The newly-opened Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok anchors the One Bangkok development with cosmopolitan elegance. Featuring the city's largest ballroom and a spectacular new penthouse suite, it delivers exceptional hardware and deeply authentic, soulful service for business and leisure travellers alike
Behind the imposing, Brutalist concrete that defines Zurich’s Oerlikon district lies a surprising secret. While its exterior honours the neighbourhood’s industrial roots, stepping inside Mama Shelter reveals a vibrant, neon-soaked world that is a far cry from its rigid shell
A polished urban retreat designed for business travellers, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown combines thoughtful design, seamless service, and exceptional facilities.
In his new role, he will lead environmental stewardship, sustainability innovations, and community outreach at Six Senses Uluwatu, with the aim of integrating luxury hospitality and sustainability.
