Asia/Singapore Tuesday, 7th April 2026
Page 62

Singapore launches audiovisual certification programme, heralding higher event standards

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From left: Unearthed Productions’ Adam Piperdy; SACEOS’ Richard Ireland; and NTUC LHUB’s Tay Ee Learn; photo by Unearthed Productions

Audiovisual (AV) standards in Singapore’s business events industry will soon be raised through a new certification programme launched by Unearthed Productions (UP), NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB), and Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS).

The partnership agreement was signed at CatchUP 2025, the annual industry gathering hosted by UP, at Warehouse on River Promenade on July 31.

From left: Unearthed Productions’ Adam Piperdy; SACEOS’ Richard Ireland; and NTUC LHUB’s Tay Ee Learn; photo by Unearthed Productions

Developed by UP’s trainers and delivered by NTUC LHUB, WSQ Fundamentals of Audio, Visual, and Lighting Systems also has endorsement from SACEOS and Singapore Tourism Board. Eligible trainees may obtain grants under Singapore’s Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) framework.

“The course uses the latest and actual industry equipment, so participants get the hands-on skills that event organisers need,” said Adam Piperdy, founder and chief experience officer of UP.

Targeted at AV technicians, business events professionals, and hospitality practitioners, the 16-hour Fundamental course melds theory and practical skills such as AV system setup, troubleshooting, and safe operation.

Graduates are then eligible to take the 16-hour Advanced course.

“Upon successful completion of both courses, graduates will be Certified Audio Visual Specialist, giving them a recognised professional accreditation, akin to the Certified Meeting Professional designation for meeting professionals,” Piperdy explained.

As UP works closely with industry players, Piperdy said post-course opportunities may include internships and project-based roles at a variety of events in Singapore.

Also announced at CatchUP was a partnership with Tuan Sing Holdings for UP to be its audio, visual and lighting partner for events hosted at Warehouse on River Promenade.

CatchUP 2025 also saw the official launch of UPGroup Asia, the regional brand under UP, and a new business events venue search platform of UP-managed venues to help clients discover unique event spaces and elevate their audio, visual and lighting experiences across the region.

IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific returns next month

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Last year’s edition of IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific

IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific is set to present an expanded educational programme from September 23 to 25, 2025, with a focus on well-being, sustainability, and purposeful engagement.

The three-day conference, held at Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre, will feature industry expert-led sessions aligned with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau’s (TCEB) Meet Well campaign, which promotes mindful and rejuvenating travel.

Last year’s edition of IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific

Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), will deliver a keynote on the future of travel on September 23. Following this, the panel discussion Pulse Check: Well-Being in Events and Business Travel will explore mindfulness in event design and travel programmes.

On September 24, there will be two leadership sessions. The Global MICE Collaborative will present INSIDE MICE: Trends and Data for Strategic Decision-Making, providing a data-driven global industry perspective; while ICCA will lead Power of Collaboration: Building Stronger Connections for a Resilient Future, highlighting the role of cross-sector alliances in fostering innovation and sustainable growth.

Highlights on September 25 include Beyond Nutrition: Future Food, Personal Wellness & Sustainable Hospitality Ecosystems presented by Tastebud Lab; and a networking session – in collaboration with Global Business Travel Association – which will connect corporate travel buyers and suppliers.

PATA will also host a youth-focused session on September 25 titled Empowering the Next Generation of Tourism Leaders to help students develop essential skills for the tourism sector.

This year’s IT&CM Asia and CTW Asia-Pacific will also see a new BizMatch and Meet segment, a series of five-minute meetings designed to facilitate quick, focused business connections between buyers and exhibitors.

To showcase local experiences, a pre-event food tour hosted by Lost Plate will also take 20 confirmed buyers and media members on an immersive culinary journey through Bangkok. Additionally, TCEB will host a mindful escape to Bang Kachao, featuring a scent-making workshop and a guided conservation tour.

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre captures six major conferences

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Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (pictured) wins six new bids for events taking place in 2026 and 2027

Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre has secured six major international conferences that are set to attract over 6,150 delegates in 2026 and 2027 and inject an estimated RM77.5 million (US$18.3 million) into the country’s economy.

The successful bids highlight the venue’s strategic focus on high-impact sectors, aligning with Malaysia’s national priorities under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030.

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (pictured) wins six new bids for events taking place in 2026 and 2027

The conferences, won through competitive bidding in 1H2025, will bring together global experts and thought leaders. They are expected to generate significant visitor spending across accommodation, dining, transportation, and tourism.

Among the notable events secured are the Global Health Security Conference 2026, Energy Tech Summit Asia 2026, and 85th FIP World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences 2027.

“Winning these bids is a resounding vote of confidence in Malaysia’s capacity, connectivity, and collaborative spirit,” said John Burke, general manager of Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

“Beyond the direct economic contribution, these events will spark new partnerships, accelerate talent development, and showcase our nation’s commitment to driving solutions for critical global challenges.”

When fashion and hospitality converge

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MCM Autumn/Winter 2025 For Cyber-Galactic Nomads & Their Pet Companions – MCM Weekend Pop-up Showcase

Event brief
German luxury fashion house MCM approached Amara Sanctuary Sentosa with a creative brief for an event to deliver a multi-sensory, immersive brand experience that extended beyond traditional fashion presentations.

The market activation followed the global debut of MCM’s collection with Pet Therapy at Milan Design Week 2025 in April. The collection captures a vision of modern luxury, one that embraces comfort, creativity, and the emotional bond between people and their pets.

The event called for a joint effort by MCM, its PR agency, Directions Group Inc, and Amara Sanctuary Sentosa to deliver brand consistency and seamless execution across all guest-facing experiences beyond the main showcase days.

Anthony Lim, general manager of Amara Sanctuary Sentosa, told TTGmice that his property is one of Singapore’s first luxury pet-friendly resorts, and it offers “a setting where thoughtful design and pet-inclusive hospitality come together, making it an ideal space to showcase MCM’s vision of contemporary living with pets”.

Lim added: “Our role was to co-create a series of curated experiences that brought the MCM vision to life in a meaningful and engaging way across multiple guest touch points, including an immersive two-day pop-up event at the Glass Pavilion, a lifestyle villa adorned with MCM’s exclusive pet and home accessories, and a specially curated MCM-themed afternoon tea experience.

“Each element was designed to reflect the evolving intersection of fashion, hospitality, and pet-friendly living.”

The hotel was given 10 weeks to bring ideas to life.

Event highlights
The activation in Singapore was set for July 2025, and was MCM’s first stop in the Asia tour, preceding launches in Malaysia and Hong Kong.

There were three components of the event, with the first being the MCM Weekend Pop-up Showcase at the Glass Pavilion. This took place across three days – July 11 for the media, and on July 12 and 13 for members of the public.

During the MCM Weekend Pop-up Showcase, guests explored MCM’s Autumn/Winter 2025 collection in a tranquil resort setting. The showcase comprised the MCM x RawRow collaboration, an interactive fragrance discovery bar, and a display of pet accessories.

“The experience was brought to life with joyful, pet-centric moments like pet photography sessions, pet-friendly frozen yoghurt, and symbolic adoptions of MCM Animal Articles, with 100 per cent of proceeds donated to Voices for Animals (VFA) Singapore,” recalled Lim.

Lim said the hotel’s front office, F&B, and security teams worked closely on logistics to ensure efficient crowd control of guests and their pets.

“Safety and cleanliness standards were upheld throughout the event, with a dedicated bin for pet waste, as well as additional poop bags, pee pads, and pet diapers thoughtfully provided. These measures ensured a clean, stress-free, and pet-friendly environment for all attendees, allowing guests and their furkids to fully enjoy the experience with comfort and ease,” he detailed.

The three-day event welcomed over 60 guests, including key fashion and lifestyle journalists, editors, and influencers on July 11, and another 350 hoomans and 80 furkids on the two public days. More than S$16,000 (US$12,330) was also successfully raised for VFA Singapore.

The other two components of the MCM activation were longer-lasting.

The MCM Experience Two-bedroom Villa, available for stays from July 12 to August 10, 2025, combines luxury accommodation with fashion and lifestyle. The villa is thoughtfully styled to feature the brand’s signature home and pet accessories, including designer poufs, pet bowls, limited-edition lifestyle pieces, and the complete MCM Parfum collection.

Guests are welcomed in style with a ride to their villa on an MCM-branded buggy. They also get to take home a special MCM gift set comprising fragrances and an MCM shopping voucher.

The luxury hotel also crafted the MCM x Amara Sanctuary Afternoon Tea, a limited-time experience that will end its run on August 10, 2025. Available only on weekends at the Sanctuary Tearoom, the experience is inspired by MCM’s latest fragrance collection.

“The hotel’s culinary team conducted extensive research and development to translate fragrance profiles into edible and flavourful afternoon tea. Sanctuary Tearoom team members were also trained to share the scent behind each item,” said Lim.

Challenges
Reflecting on the project creation and delivery, Lim said one of the challenges for his team was the process of translating MCM’s fragrance profiles into edible concepts for the afternoon tea menu.

“The brief was to reflect perfume notes from MCM’s latest fragrance collection, which meant our culinary team had to interpret abstract scent elements – such as citrus woods, fruity florals, and musks – into flavour pairings that were both palatable and elevated.

“To do this, each fragrance was broken down into its top, mid, and base notes, which were then carefully mapped to complementary ingredients. For example, pineapple and basil were selected to represent fresh, uplifting, citrusy top notes, while truffle and sesame reflected the deeper, more sensual base accords.

“The process involved extensive research and development, tasting sessions, and collaborative discussions between the MCM and our culinary teams. The final result was a cohesive and immersive dining journey that not only echoed the spirit of each scent but also reflected MCM’s signature brand colours and aesthetic, blending the worlds of perfume, flavour, and fashion in a sophisticated, multi-sensory experience.”

Amara Sanctuary Sentosa’s other challenge was to transform one of its two-bedroom villas into an experiential lifestyle space that would reflect the MCM’s Autumn/Winter 2025 collection – blending elements of fashion, fragrance, homeware, and pet-friendly luxury.

“The challenge lay in balancing aesthetics, functionality, and brand storytelling, all while maintaining the comfort and flow of a true guest stay,” reflected Lim.

To bring this to life, both MCM and hotel teams worked closely to plan the layout, styling, and guest touch points. Iconic MCM pieces such as the one-metre tall Bunny, Bear, and Pup, signature luggage, pet poufs, trays, and fragrances were placed with precision to create a cohesive and visually striking environment.

Furthermore, in the lead up to the launch of the MCM Experience Villa package, the hotel had two hours to complete styling and photoshoot of the room. The exercise required precise coordination between both teams, overnight preparation, and real-time responsiveness to ensure the villa was perfectly staged and captured without disrupting resort operations.

Lim noted that logistics and timing were critical in ensuring operational readiness for arriving VIPs, members of the media and public guests on event days across July 11 to 13.

He said his team had to uphold service standards while safeguarding the privacy of in-house guests.

Event MCM Autumn/Winter 2025 For Cyber-Galactic Nomads & Their Pet Companions – MCM Weekend Pop-up Showcase
Dates July 11 (media preview); July 12 to 13 (public event)
Organisers MCM, Directions Group Inc, and Amara Sanctuary Sentosa
Venue Glass Pavilion, Amara Sanctuary Sentosa, Singapore
Number of attendees 60 pax on July 11; 350 pax and 80 pets on July 12 and 13

Top incentive ideas, part 3

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19. Cruising in style
This 78-foot, double-decker event yacht redefines luxury on the water, offering over 278m2 of floating entertainment space in Victoria Harbour.

Beyond standard harbour cruises, additional itineraries can include a Southern Island cruise by Repulse Bay or a seafood dinner at Lamma Island. To enhance the experience, live bands and F&B options are available, as are additional activities like yoga workshops, perfume workshops, and wine tastings.

The maximum cruising capacity is 50 guests. A standard harbour cruise package begins at HK$48,000 (US$6,115) + 10 per cent service charge for 50 guests, covering free-flow non-alcoholic beverages and essential AV equipment (screens, TV, microphone, projector, speakers).


20. Natural wonders
Explore the rock formations, moss-covered boulders, and moist crevices sculpted by centuries of water and air that lend a stunning, almost mystical quality to the Tutulari Inararo Avatar Gorge in Pampanga, Philippines. This paradise within the ancestral domain of the indigenous Aeta community was discovered only several years ago.

Then hike off to Puning Hot Spring, formed by the eruption of Mount Pinatubo, to soak in its hot and cold pools and get buried in a hot sand before being covered in mud, for a relaxing and cleansing ablution. This tour is organised by Pinatubo Mountainero, for up to 12 pax per group.


21. Executive escapes
Located near Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, India, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort offers accommodation perfect for exploring local wildlife, including tigers. Jungle safaris are available upon request, accompanied by expert guides. On clear nights, stargazing can also be enjoyed.

Suitable for groups of up to 250 people, evenings can feature an outdoor high tea under a Mango tree, complete with displays of local arts and crafts like pottery and bangle making, alongside musical performances. A unique touch: each room number begins with ‘T’, mirroring the numbering system for tigers in Ranthambore National Park.


22. A timeless journey
Step aboard The Blue Jasmine, a luxury rail journey like no other, winding through five culturally rich provinces of Thailand aboard a restored 1960s sleeper train.

This exquisite nine-day experience blends historic elegance with immersive, off-the-beaten-track excursions – from temple-strewn Ayutthaya to artisanal Sukhothai. Culminating in a riverside finale at the heritage Siri Sala villa in Bangkok, this private charter delivers exclusivity and Thai heritage at its finest.

Offered by DTH Travel, the Blue Jasmine train can comfortably accommodate up to 37 passengers across its 10 wagons.


23. Fold of honour
For a captivating cultural experience, delegates can explore the rich symbolism behind the tanjak, traditional Malay headgear. More than just folded cloth, the tanjak signifies rank, heritage, and identity. With over 208 documented folding styles, each variation tells a unique story.

Participants will learn how the tanjak serves as non-verbal communication, conveying status, allegiance, and pride through intricate folds that honour centuries of tradition. This activity is organised within a heritage building in Kuala Lumpur by Dusky Leaf Adventures.


24. Up and away
Treat your star employees to the ultimate high and discover Laos from the sky with a luxurious helicopter ride with Khiri Travel Laos.

Fly high above the stunning Nam Ngum Reservoir, often called “The Sea of Laos”. Witness Vang Vieng’s dramatic limestone mountains from an incredible vantage point, or uncover the secrets of the Plain of Jars from the sky. The company also provide helicopter transfers from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, ensuring a stylish and efficient journey for delegates.


25. Gastronomic jaunt
Organised by Macau Explorer Cultural Travel and Go Out Mall, this three-hour culinary tour is guided by a reputable chef, providing a hands-on culinary experience for incentive groups.

For example, chef Justin Paul (formerly of Michelin-star Golden Peacock) will lead participants through a local wet market to handpick fresh ingredients for a subsequent cooking session.

The tour, designed for eight to 20 participants, also includes exploring Macau’s hidden alleys and sampling iconic street snacks.


26. Puppet legacy
Delve into Cambodia’s rich culture with a shadow puppet theatre class.

The sacred art form of Sbek Thom – a UNESCO listed cultural treasure – has been entertaining Cambodians since pre-Angkorian times with towering puppets made of intricately-carved leather used to tell the tale of the Reamker, the Khmer version of the Ramayana.

The Sovanna Phum Art Association offers private puppet-making and dance workshops in Phnom Penh, giving visitors the unique chance to learn more about the UNESCO-listed art form that teeters on the brink of extinction.  


27. Sky-high sojourn
Embark on an unforgettable aerial journey with Volcanic Air, exploring Rotorua’s iconic volcanic landscapes. This experience starts with a 30-minute scenic floatplane flight, providing breathtaking views above Mount Tarawera and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

Ideal for groups up to 15, the experience culminates with a private landing at Lake Rotoiti’s secluded hot pools. Here, guests will enjoy a 90-minute soak in seven geothermal springs, accessible exclusively by air or water.

CTM appoints global head of growth marketing

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Corporate Travel Management has appointed Rebecca Welsch to the new role of global head of growth marketing.

Welsch is a seasoned B2B marketing leader with over 16 years of global experience spanning SaaS, enterprise technology, and corporate travel.

Most recently, she led global product marketing at Phocas Software, where she increased product attachment, improved sales alignment, and defined the company’s positioning through customer insight and cross-functional collaboration.

Plaza Premium Group appoints new GM for South-east Asia

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Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has promoted Cavin Loh as regional general manager for Southeast Asia – Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Thailand.

With over 15 years of experience in hospitality and airport services, Loh will oversee and drive the strategic growth, operational excellence, and commercial performance of PPG in his new role.

His previous roles include area general manager and regional commercial director of Southeast Asia, which highlights his deep understanding of regional operations and commitment to customer service excellence.

Singapore MICE Forum 2025 focuses on the future

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SMD, a new event added to the annual SMF, drew more than 600 attendees; photo by Gerardine Donough-Tan

This year’s Singapore MICE Forum (SMF), organised by the Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS), took a slightly different tack – one day for the main SMF event and two half-days for new offshoots.

All events were held at Sands Expo & Convention Centre.

SMD, a new event added to the annual SMF, drew more than 600 attendees; photo by Gerardine Donough-Tan

The Association MICE Symposium (AMS) on July 23 was jointly run by SACEOS and Singapore Business Federation, while Singapore MICE Development (SMD) took place on July 25.

The main SMF on July 24 carried the theme What’s Next, where more than 300 attendees at SMF absorbed fireside chats and panel discussions on technology, hospitality, sports, and even fashion.

In an illuminating dialogue, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) chief executive Melissa Ow said that with finite resources, Singapore has to focus on quality tourism and be a “good destination partner” delivering events with “real impact and value”.

Singapore adopts a different model as a city state. “The model is unique and built for our context. Execution is key, and public-private partnership is the cornerstone of how Singapore operates,” she added.

The SMF marketplace saw more than 20 companies showcase a variety of products and services, while SMD’s marketplace featured 15 attractions, venues, PCOs and service and education providers looking to tap new talent. There were also “lightning talks” to inform and inspire the 600 attendees at SMD.

“MICE is a growth sector and as outlined by STB’s Melissa Ow, it is planned to grow by three times by 2040,” said Richard Ireland, SACEOS president.

“This growth will provide excellent jobs with great diversity of roles, diversity of sectors serviced, travel opportunities, roles with purpose, and good career progression.”

Also held on July 24 was the Singapore MICE Awards 2025 Gala Dinner, where awards were given across 16 categories. Special recognition went to Marina Bay Sands for winning MICE Venue of the Year, and Gevme for Event Tech Application of the Year for three consecutive years (2023–2025).

Fresh funding to boost Tropical North Queensland’s MICE sector

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This funding will help drive visitation and economic growth, delegates at Cairns Botanic Gardens

Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef has launched a new funding programme to attract and secure business events to the region over the next four years, with the initiative projected to deliver a A$54 million (US$34.7 million) direct economic impact.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s (TTNQ) general manager of partnerships and events, Tara Bennett, said the programme would support new business events proposing Tropical North Queensland as a destination, with a minimum of 150 delegates staying in the region for three nights.

This funding will help drive visitation and economic growth, delegates at Cairns Botanic Gardens

“International and national eligible events can apply for funding of A$10,000 or more for events taking place between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2029.”

In addition to the financial support, the Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef team will continue to provide a suite of complimentary services through the convention bureau.

These include connecting meeting planners with venues and accommodation providers and the broader local events supply network, delegate boosting and marketing support, as well as air and ground support for site inspections.

The funding initiative is supported by key partners Tourism and Events Queensland and Cairns Regional Council, who work alongside Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef to secure major business events for the region.

Rehabilitation conference to bring global experts to Penang

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From left: AOCPRM 2025 committee’s Ng Chen Yit; PCEB’s Ashwin Gunasekeran; Penang State EXCO for Tourism & Creative Economy’s Wong Hon Wai;  AOCPRM 2025’s organising chair Chung Tzi Yang; and AOCPRM 2025 committee’s Zetty Noreeta binti Mohd Rozali

The 9th Asia-Oceanian Conference of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (AOCPRM 2025) will be held from August 21 to 23, 2025, at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Penang, Malaysia.

This year’s theme is Rehabilitation for a Sustainable Future: Bridging Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact, and the conference is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates from more than 20 countries.

From left: AOCPRM 2025 committee’s Ng Chen Yit; PCEB’s Ashwin Gunasekeran; Penang State EXCO for Tourism & Creative Economy’s Wong Hon Wai;  AOCPRM 2025’s organising chair Chung Tzi Yang; and AOCPRM 2025 committee’s Zetty Noreeta binti Mohd Rozali

Hosted by the Malaysian Association of Rehabilitation Physicians, the scientific programme will cover a range of topics in physical and rehabilitation medicine.

The conference will feature a keynote lecture by a world-renowned leader in the field; eight plenary lectures on emerging trends and challenges in global rehabilitation; 28 thematic symposia covering topics like neurorehabilitation, musculoskeletal pain, and robotics; and 10 pre-conference workshops on August 20, 2025, offering hands-on training.

There will also be the first-ever Mandarin Symposium to broaden accessibility and collaboration, said Chung Tze Yang, chair of the AOCPRM 2025 organising committee.

In addition to the academic sessions, the conference will offer cultural and wellness activities, including morning Tai Chi, a tree-planting ceremony, and a Cultural Gala Dinner at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel. Optional sightseeing tours of Penang are also available for registered delegates.

The AOCPRM is held once every three years and is a major event in the Asia-Oceanian region for professionals in rehabilitation care, education, and research.

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