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New York Artist Adam Handler’s Largest Solo Exhibition in Asia Opens at Artelli in Macau Featuring Outreach Activities to Enrich Diverse Art Experiences and Enhance Local Cultural Atmosphere

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MACAU, March 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Artelli, the pioneering multi-dimensional art space, joined hands with ARTONEERS and Caelis Galeria to host the opening ceremony of new exhibition on March 7(Yesterday). Renowned New York artist Adam Handler traveled to Macau to attend his first solo exhibition in Macau, titled “Always near you…Always”, marking his largest solo exhibition in Asia to date. With the arrival of ART MARCH, Artelli has announced a series of outreach events. These events aim to offer a diverse art experience to the public, leveraging Artelli’s role as a platform that connects international artists with the local art community in Macau. These events also provide an open space for art enthusiasts to gather, interact, and enrich the local cultural scene through the appreciation and interaction with artworks.

(Left to right) Ms. Mindy Shen, Founder of pH7 and co-founder of ARTONEERS; Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion Group and Artelli; Ms. Jennifer Si Tou, Head of Tourism Product and Events Department of MGTO; Mr. Patrick Ho, Head of Department for Promotion Cultural and Creative Industries of ICM; Mr. Adam Handler, New York Artist; Mr. Jose Ignacio Ruiz Caparros, Co-founder of Caelis Galeria and ARTONEERS Co-host Ribbon-cutting Ceremony.
(Left to right) Ms. Mindy Shen, Founder of pH7 and co-founder of ARTONEERS; Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion Group and Artelli; Ms. Jennifer Si Tou, Head of Tourism Product and Events Department of MGTO; Mr. Patrick Ho, Head of Department for Promotion Cultural and Creative Industries of ICM; Mr. Adam Handler, New York Artist; Mr. Jose Ignacio Ruiz Caparros, Co-founder of Caelis Galeria and ARTONEERS Co-host Ribbon-cutting Ceremony.

Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion Group and Artelli(Left); Mr. Jose Ignacio Ruiz Caparros, Co-founder of Caelis Galeria and ARTONEERS(Right)
Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion Group and Artelli(Left); Mr. Jose Ignacio Ruiz Caparros, Co-founder of Caelis Galeria and ARTONEERS(Right)

Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion Group and Artelli, expressed, “Artelli is dedicated to establishing itself as a pioneering art brand in Asia. Since its inception over a year ago, Artelli has partnered with international artists from the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and other regions to curate international original art projects and invite artists to visit Macau for close interactions with the public. Artelli will continue to expand the art business ecosystem and host outreach activities such as art education and art therapy to provide diverse art experiences. We will also continue to promote art accessibility and leverage Macau’s unique platform to attract international travelers, encouraging them to explore ‘Travel’ and ‘Art’ itineraries, further bolstering Macau’s reputation as a cultural hub.”

Mr. Jose Ignacio Ruiz Caparros, Co-founder of Caelis Galeria and ARTONEERS, shared, “Macau is a place where diverse cultures converge, and we are delighted to collaborate with Artelli to present the largest exhibition of New York artist Adam Handler in Asia. Most of the works in this exhibition were created specifically for this occasion. Before coming to Macau, it was difficult to imagine a multi-dimensional art space like Artelli. During the preparation period, we learned about the city’s emphasis on art development and its potential. Collaborating with the Macau team for the first time has shown us their international perspective and execution capabilities. We hope to bring more art projects to Macau in the future.”

Global Debut of Original Artwork Featuring Large-Scale Art Installations

(Top to Bottom) Exhibition Site Image; Exhibition Site Image; "Soul Room" Interactive Experience: Visitors Can Establish a Spiritual Connection with Handler through Emotional Writing and Art; New York Artist Adam Handler; Adam Presents Artelli with a Meaningful Original Piece; Adam Shares Art Concept to Visitors; Adam Creates in Exhibition; Over 100 International Collectors and Art Lovers Attending; Artelli, ARTONEERS and Caelis Galeria Art Team
(Top to Bottom) Exhibition Site Image; Exhibition Site Image; “Soul Room” Interactive Experience: Visitors Can Establish a Spiritual Connection with Handler through Emotional Writing and Art; New York Artist Adam Handler; Adam Presents Artelli with a Meaningful Original Piece; Adam Shares Art Concept to Visitors; Adam Creates in Exhibition; Over 100 International Collectors and Art Lovers Attending; Artelli, ARTONEERS and Caelis Galeria Art Team

This exhibition, themed “Love Heals” showcases Adam Handler’s new and debut creations, including the Ghost Series, the UFO Abduction Series and the Battle Ground Series. Handler captivates audiences worldwide with his distinctive Kawaii Faux Naïf style, which seamlessly blends whimsy and therapeutical elements. Using acrylic paint, oil stick, pencil, and markers, Adam Handler employs a passionate and childlike drawing technique to create unique outlined characters that almost appear flat, lacking depth. Artelli’s two levels feature large-scale art installations, enhancing the overall exhibition with a richer visual effect.

Handler often translates his personal experiences and emotions into phrases in his works. Elements of Handler’s studio in New York have been brought into the exhibition venue to let the audience understand the artist’s creative thinking and current thoughts from his perspective. Elements of Handler’s New York studio been brought into the exhibition venue to allow visitors to understand the artist’s creative thinking and current thoughts from his point of view. A message board inspired by one of the artist’s most iconic characters, “Ghost”, is also available in the exhibition venue. The audience can leave a unique phrase or share thoughts after viewing the exhibition in the “Soul Room”, as a way to share the world of each other’s souls with the artists.

At the opening ceremony, Artist Adam Handler said, “Each of the works in this exhibition reflects my heart and soul, containing deep emotions and stories, but also to express the desire for love and healing. Macau is a wonderful place, and it is an honor to meet my familiar collectors and new friends in person. Thank you to Artelli, ARTONEERS and Caelis Galeria for making this my largest solo exhibition in Asia, and I am very happy to be able to present the characters in my head in the form of a large-scale art installation, which is one of my favorite exhibitions in my personal art career. “

Download High Resolution Photos: https://pan.baidu.com/s/116kuKLFtenXD_pq_uTHO5w?pwd=85m9 Password: 85m9

Adam Handler’s Macao Debut Exhibition “Always near you…Always”

Dates

8th March – 23rd April, 2024

Time

Monday to Sunday 11:00 – 22:00

Address

Artelli, The Showroom, City of Dreams, Macau

Follow Artelli’s official platform to get the latest information.

About Artelli

Artelli is the pioneering multi-dimensional space for contemporary art, lifestyle aesthetics, digital and techno art, art communities, and brand collaborations. The space stands as a new and unprecedented international landmark for art and culture.

Artelli will ultimately join forces with over a hundred internationally renowned artists and brand designers to co-create exclusive art projects and debut collections. With a dedicated focus on Web 3.0 digital art and metaverse, Artelli pioneers the exploration of new artistic dimensions. Guided by a strong commitment to become a multi-dimensional art space that fosters collaborations within the art and culture communities, Artelli’s visionary path unfolds through the fusion of art, technology, and the dynamic commercial sector.

Artelli has successfully organised more than five highly anticipated art exhibitions, featuring international artists in prime locations spanning Macau, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Shanghai. In the future, Artelli envisions expanding its brand to attain international prominence as the landmark for art and culture. With aspirations reaching Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, New York, London, and Paris, Artelli is set to leave a vivid mark on the global stage over the next five years.

About ARTONEERS

ARTONEERS Hong Kong is an art commercialization brand created by Caelis Galeria and pH7 Communications CO.. ARTONEERS is a representative product of the combination of “ART” and “PIONEERS”, where “ART ” represents the creative presentation of artists, and “PIONEERS” represents pioneers who open and explore new fields. Therefore, we coined the term “ARTONEER” (Art Pioneer) to describe the innovative and pioneering spirit of artists and their imaginative works. Aiming to be a bridge linking art, business, society and people, Art Frontier Hong Kong has its own branded art gallery, exclusive artist representation, commercial art co-operation planning and execution, art derivatives production and other art-related services. We also aim to realize the double-track enhancement of the artistic and commercial value of our artists.

About Caelis Galeria

Founded in 2014, Caelis Galeria is an avant-garde contemporary art gallery based in Shanghai, nestled within the vibrant M50 Cultural Park. Housed in a stylish and architecturally impressive space, the gallery provides a dynamic platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their avant-garde creations. Caelis Galeria is a symbol of innovation, providing a haven for those wishing to explore the ever-evolving nature of contemporary art. With its commitment to expanding the boundaries of the art world and providing a platform for a plurality of voices, the gallery continues to be an important driving force in shaping the narrative of contemporary culture!

About Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Company Limited

Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Company Limited is an integrated group with three synergistic business segments – fashion, art, and lifestyle – and a commitment to creating innovative retail business model. With a track record of managing over 100 brands, the Group has helped many brands to establish their first presence in Greater China. In recent years, the Group has actively enhanced its operations and developed its own brands, such as Artelli, ASCE, UMJ, WF Fashion, to further enrich its brand portfolio. Leveraging its extensive retail experience and IP resources, the Group has spearheaded exclusive collaborations with brands and cultural and art communities to expand into the international market. In January 2024, the Galeries Lafayette Macau, introduces and operates by Forward Fashion, officially opened as an anchor tenant of the YOHO Treasure Island Resorts World Shopping Centre.

Mr. Fan Wing Ting, Patrick, is the founder, chairman and executive director of Forward Fashion Holdings. In 2005, he founded the first company of the Group in Hong Kong focusing on fashion apparel retail in Greater China. Following the Group’s 2020 listing on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, Forward Fashion has embarked on eCommerce platforms and introduced international fashion and artistic brands and visionary international art projects to Greater China. The Group aims to cater for the preferences and needs of local youths and promotes business diversification.

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Sands Resorts Macao Participates in ‘Experience Macao’ Mega Roadshow in Japan

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A three-day event highlighting the diversity of Macao’s ‘tourism+’ initiatives and Sands Resorts Macao’s comprehensive integrated resorts offerings 

MACAO, March 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sands® Resorts Macao is participating in the ‘Experience Macao‘ Mega Roadshow in Tokyo, Japan from March 8-10, organised by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO). The informative three-day event shines a spotlight on the MGTO’s varied ‘tourism+’ initiatives as part of its ongoing strategy to expand the diversity of travellers for a more robust recovery of the tourism economy. 

Sands Resorts Macao is participating in the ‘Experience Macao’ Mega Roadshow running from March 8-10 in Tokyo, Japan, showcasing its comprehensive offerings to visitors.
Sands Resorts Macao is participating in the ‘Experience Macao’ Mega Roadshow running from March 8-10 in Tokyo, Japan, showcasing its comprehensive offerings to visitors.

The key goal of the roadshow is to stimulate interest in Macao as a preferred leisure and MICE destination. This includes hosting a travel trade seminar and deepening visitors’ knowledge of Macao through a range of appealing activities and enticing offers for both business and leisure travellers.

Dr. DeVonne Iao, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Sands China Ltd. said, “We are delighted to participate in the ‘Experience Macao‘ Mega Roadshow organised by the MGTO in Tokyo, Japan. This opportunity allows us to introduce the rich offerings of Sands Resorts Macao, and Sands Lifestyle’s unique experiences, to its residents, tourists and industry professionals. We aim to continuously raise Macao’s profile as a ‘World Centre of Tourism and Leisure’. Our participation is a demonstration of Sands China’s firm commitment to support the MGTO’s ‘tourism+’ initiatives and its ongoing efforts to develop a full spectrum of diversified tourism offerings.”

The company’s participation is also aligned with its ongoing efforts to explore creative ways to develop closer cultural ties with Japan, such as the inaugural 2024 Macau Japan Spring Festival, taking place at Sands Resorts Macao until the end of March.

At the Mega Roadshow, Sands Resorts Macao, comprising three interconnected integrated resorts, The Venetian® Macao, The Parisian Macao and The Londoner® Macao, is highlighting its Michelin-starred and award-winning restaurants, world-class accommodation, duty-free shopping, extensive MICE facilities, and engaging leisure and entertainment options. It is also promoting one of its popular accommodation packages, the Stay 2 Nights and Get Special Offer, which will provide guests from Japan with an unforgettable experience of Sands Resorts Macao. 

Visitors to Sands Resorts Macao’s striking booth are sure to be captivated by the design homage it pays to the European signatures of each integrated resort, including photo and Instagram hotspots – Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben), the Eiffel Tower and the iconic Venetian gondola. They can also enjoy travel experience videos that showcase the myriad of ways to stay, shop, dine and be entertained at Sands Resorts Macao.

For more information, visit https://en.sandsresortsmacao.com/ or the official Facebook accounts of Sands Lifestyle, Venetian Macao, Parisian Macao, Londoner Macao, Conrad Macao and Sands Macao.

Sands Resorts Macao is participating in the ‘Experience Macao’ Mega Roadshow running from March 8-10 in Tokyo, Japan, showcasing its comprehensive offerings to visitors.
Sands Resorts Macao is participating in the ‘Experience Macao’ Mega Roadshow running from March 8-10 in Tokyo, Japan, showcasing its comprehensive offerings to visitors.

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“AXA Women’s Health Centre” officially unveils on International Women’s Day

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AXA and Chiron Medical join hands to introduce Hong Kong’s first women-exclusive health centre
Comprehensive care for women’s health with an entire female medical team at the helm

HONG KONG, March 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Commemorating International Women’s Day on 8 March, AXA Hong Kong and Macau (“AXA”) and Chiron Medical Group (“Chiron Medical”) jointly announced the grand opening of the “AXA Women’s Health Centre” (The Centre). It marks the first collaboration of its kind between an insurance company and a medical service group in Hong Kong. The Centre is designed to meet women’s unique needs, providing comfortable and attentive one-stop health management services, covering examination, diagnosis, treatment, and health management.

During the opening ceremony of the "AXA Women’s Health Centre," the management teams of AXA and Chiron Medical Group celebrated their collaboration, pledged to provide high-quality, attentive medical services for women. (From left) Jonathan Li, Chief Agency Officer of AXA Greater China; Emily Li, Chief Employee Benefits and Wellness Officer of AXA Hong Kong and Macau; Sally Wan, Chief Executive Officer of AXA Greater China; Wallace Wong, Managing Director of Chiron Medical Group; Dr. William Sharr, Director of Chiron Medical Gastroenterology & Hepatology Centre and Specialist in General Surgery; Dr. Frances Leung, Specialist in Emergency Medicine and representative doctor from Chiron Medical and FemWell.
During the opening ceremony of the “AXA Women’s Health Centre,” the management teams of AXA and Chiron Medical Group celebrated their collaboration, pledged to provide high-quality, attentive medical services for women. (From left) Jonathan Li, Chief Agency Officer of AXA Greater China; Emily Li, Chief Employee Benefits and Wellness Officer of AXA Hong Kong and Macau; Sally Wan, Chief Executive Officer of AXA Greater China; Wallace Wong, Managing Director of Chiron Medical Group; Dr. William Sharr, Director of Chiron Medical Gastroenterology & Hepatology Centre and Specialist in General Surgery; Dr. Frances Leung, Specialist in Emergency Medicine and representative doctor from Chiron Medical and FemWell.

Women in Hong Kong play important roles in society, the workplace, and at home. Amidst balancing their responsibilities and striving for excellence, they tend to overlook their health by skipping routine check-ups and failing to respond to concerning symptoms in their bodies. Government statistics indicate a rising trend in newly diagnosed cancer cases among women, surpassing men for the first time in 2020[1]. This highlights the urgent need for society to address women’s health challenges, calling for collaborative efforts to raise women’s awareness about preventative healthcare, regular check-ups, and the value of healthy living.

To promote early diagnosis and timely treatment for women, AXA has partnered with FemWell, a female health brand owned by Chiron Medical, to launch the “AXA Women’s Health Centre” in the bustling heart of Tsim Sha Tsui. This cutting-edge facility provides a full range of women’s health services, including general practice, obstetrics and gynaecology, clinical oncology, general surgery, and consultations with clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, nutritionists, and chiropractors, all overseen by a female medical team. A professional case manager will be assigned to follow up on individual needs, from organising appointments and examinations to administering treatment and rehabilitation care, assuring continuous assistance throughout the process.

The “AXA Women’s Health Centre” breaks away from traditional clinic styles and places a strong emphasis on being “thoughtful, friendly and reliable”. The Centre’s inviting and soothing interior creates a comfortable and reassuring environment for visitors, reducing their nervousness or anxiety during medical visits. The dedicated changing rooms, exclusive waiting areas, consulting rooms and imaging screening rooms ensure high privacy and comfort during the examination and consultation procedures.  

Emily Li, Chief Employee Benefits and Wellness Officer at AXA Hong Kong and Macau, said, “I am excited to the official launch of the ‘AXA Women’s Health Centre’ in partnership with FemWell, a female health brand under Chiron Medical, in celebration of today’s International Women’s Day. This initiative aims to raise awareness of women’s health and provide more comfortable, high-quality services tailored to their unique needs. AXA has always remained our commitment to supporting women’s health. Last year, we successfully introduced the innovative ‘Better She’ health management programme[2] in Hong Kong, specifically designed for women. This programme integrates gynaecological services and preventive treatment from both Traditional Chinese and Western medicines to improve women’s physical and mental well-being, thereby reducing the risk of critical gynecological disease in the future. The opening of the Centre for today marks another significant milestone in our dedication to women’s health. Leveraging the strengths of AXA and Chiron Medical, we provide comprehensive medical and holistic healthcare to women throughout their health journey, empowering them to prioritise early prevention, early detection, and early treatment.”

Wallace Wong, Managing Director at Chiron Medical Group, said, “I’m honoured to announce the launch of the Centre today through the partnership with AXA and our FemWell, the female health brand under Chiron Medical. With our group’s “people-oriented” philosophy at the core, FemWell takes a comprehensive approach to support women’s health, guided by a team of female experts. The Centre adheres to “Illness treatment” and “Wellness management” principles while embracing a refreshing concept of ultimate comfort. Placing our customers’ health at the forefront, we provide personalised health experiences that cater to women’s unique needs. As the first phase of FemWell’s development under Chiron Medical, the Centre represents a significant milestone. We will actively explore further collaborations that share our vision of promoting women’s holistic well-being within the healthcare ecosystem. Our goal is to take a customer-driven approach to deliver mental and physical health services and more educational resources, empowering women to proactively improve their overall well-being.”

AXA has always been dedicated to meeting customer needs and adapting to market dynamics. We continuously invest resources and foster partnerships to strengthen our extensive medical and specialty medical network. Building on the success of the “AXA Medical Centre” and the “AXA Designated Endoscopy and Day Surgery Centre, the launch of the “AXA Women’s Health Centre” expands our network to cater specially to women’s healthcare needs through our collaboration with FemWell, a female health brand owned by Chiron Medical.  By championing a new and empowering approach to comprehensive women’s healthcare, AXA supports women’s health across Hong Kong while demonstrating our commitment to lifelong partnership with our customers.

At the AXA Women’s Health Centre“, AXA policyholders can enjoy exclusive benefits, including cashless services for eligible medical treatments and up to 30% discounts on designated health check-ups. For more details, please visit “Emma By AXA”, our all-in-one insurance & health services mobile application.

About AXA Hong Kong and Macau

AXA Hong Kong and Macau is a member of the AXA Group, a leading global insurer with presence in 50 markets and serving 94 million customers worldwide. Our purpose is to act for human progress by protecting what matters.

As one of the most diversified insurers in Hong Kong, we offer integrated solutions across Life, Health and General Insurance. We are the largest General Insurance provider and a major Health and Employee Benefits provider. Our aim is to not only be the insurer to provide comprehensive protection to our customers, but also a holistic partner to the individuals, businesses and community we serve. At the core of our service commitment is continuous product & service innovation and customer experience enrichment, which is achieved through actively listening to our customers’ needs and leveraging and investing in technology and digital transformation.

We embrace our responsibility to be a driving force against climate change and a force for good to create shared value for our community. We are proud to be the first to address the importance of mental health through different products and services and thought leading iconic research. Our overall Sustainability Strategy, with emphasis on climate strategy and biodiversity commitment, is developed based on TCFD recommendations. We are committed to integrating environmental, social and governance factors across our business and strive to contribute to a sustainable future through 3 distinct roles – as an investor, insurer and an exemplary company.

About Chiron Medical Group

Chiron Medical Group (“Chiron Medical”) adheres to a patient-centered approach and the establishment of trustworthy medical care. Our mission is to provide comprehensive medical services that encompass prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of various health conditions, offering patients a one-stop healthcare solution.

We possess an exceptional team of specialised medical professionals and advanced technologies. By combining effective communication with our patients, we provide personalised medical care to ensure that patients have the best experience throughout the consultation, treatment process, and the establishment of a healthy lifestyle. We strive to become their trusted medical partner.

About FemWell

FemWell, a female health brand owned by Chiron Medical Group, is established to provide a holistic caring platform for the Women’s health nowadays. With a multi-disciplinary team of female experts to focus on all aspects of women’s wellness and the all-rounded “Illness treatment” to “Wellness management” concept, FemWell brings the idea of the optimal health for women and works together towards a prosperous life.

The launch of the Women’s Health Center is the first step in FemWell’s promotional campaign.  Moving forward, FemWell is committed to delivering continuous  health information,  conducting workshops on physical and mental well-being, and offering personalised treatment plans. Our ultimate goal is to empower women to prioritise their personal health and address their overall physical and mental well-being.

THIS PRESS RELEASE IS AVAILABLE ON AXA, CHIRON MEDICAL AND FEMWELL WEBSITE: AXA.COM.HKChiron.careFemWell.com

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFORMATION AND CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained herein may be forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements that are predictions of or indicate future events, trends, plans or objectives. Undue reliance should not be placed on such statements because, by their nature, they are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and can be affected by other factors that could cause AXA’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Please refer to Part 4 – “Risk factors and risk management” of AXA’s Universal Registration Document for the year ended December 31, 2019, for a description of certain important factors, risks and uncertainties that may affect AXA’s business, and/or results of operations. AXA undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether to reflect new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise, except as part of applicable regulatory or legal obligations.

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Avia Solutions Group concluded acquisition of Skytrans Airlines, expanding to 12 AOCs worldwide

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DUBLIN, March 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider with a fleet of 199 aircraft, has finalized the acquisition of the Australian airline Skytrans. The airline, which holds a fleet of 13 regional aircraft, specializes in Regular Public Transport (RPT) as well as charter operations.

With the acquisition of Skytrans, the group secures an Australian Air Operator Certificate (AOC), paving the way for both passenger and cargo flight operations. The move will, moreover, allow the group to access the lucrative domestic aviation market in Australia, which, according to projections published in the Australian Aviation Network review of 2023, is set to exceed pre-COVID levels in 2024.

This development is part of the group’s growth strategy within the Asia-Pacific region. Expansion in the region provides valuable leverage to counterbalance the reduced seasonal demand in Europe by shifting aircraft between counter-seasonal regions. The obtained AOC brings the total number of air operator certificates held by the group to 12.

“This acquisition is part of our larger strategy, which is aimed at limiting the impact of seasonality, whilst giving us access to new growing markets in Asia-Pacific and further afield. By the end of the year, we aim to establish or acquire 7 additional airlines, with countries like Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia firmly on our radar,” says Jonas Janukenas, CEO of Avia Solutions Group.

According to the newly appointed Managing Director of Skytrans, Gytis Gumuliauskas, while the company’s current activities will be continued, the main goal is to extensively develop ACMI and wet lease operations:

“Passenger operations will be our main area of focus, with cargo being an area we’re willing to explore and develop in 2024 and beyond. To achieve these goals, we have plans of expanding the fleet with A319 aircraft for passenger and with A321F for cargo transportation.”

Irish-based Avia Solutions Group is the parent company to SmartLynx Airlines, Avion Express, AirExplore, KlasJet, Magma Aviation, and more, operating worldwide. The group also comprises a leading global provider of MRO services, FL Technics, with 100 line maintenance stations worldwide and maintenance hangars in Lithuania, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom. Furthermore, Avia Solutions Group also operates the largest independent pilot training organization, BAA Training, with schools in Spain, France, Lithuania, and Vietnam.

About Avia Solutions Group:

Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance), operates a fleet of 199 aircraft and is the parent company to over 100 subsidiaries including SmartLynx Airlines, Avion Express, Bluebird Nordic, BBN Indonesia Airlines, and KlasJet. The group also provides a range of aviation services: MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), pilot and crew training, ground handling, as well as a variety of associated services. Supported by 11,700 highly skilled aviation professionals.

For more information: www.aviasg.com   

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Infinix Tops Charts with Largest Year-on-Year Shipments Increase Among Global Smartphone Brands in 2023

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Recognized for Marketing Excellence and Received TikTok for Business Overseas Marketing Awards

SHANGHAI, March 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Infinix, a trendy tech brand crafted for young consumers, is thrilled to announce its exceptional performance in 2023. According to IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, Infinix has achieved a remarkable milestone in year-on-year increase in units in smartphone shipments, surpassing all other global smartphone brands with an astounding accomplishment of over 13 million units increase. This translates to an impressive growth rate of 64.1% compared to 2022.

Infinix Tops Charts with Largest Year-on-Year Shipments Increase Among Global Smartphone Brands in 2023
Infinix Tops Charts with Largest Year-on-Year Shipments Increase Among Global Smartphone Brands in 2023

Tony Zhao, General Manager of Infinix, proudly attributes the company’s achievements to a multifaceted marketing approach, technological innovation, and strategic collaborations with key industry players, such as TikTok. By utilizing the platform, Infinix successfully connects with its target users, empowering them to exceed their limitations and unlock their full potential.

“Infinix focuses on catering to youth preferences, providing tailored-made technological innovations, and recognizing the pivotal role of strategic partnerships. By leveraging TikTok as a creative platform, Infinix effectively reaches our target users, enabling them to conquer their limits and become the best versions of themselves.” Tony Zhao.

Infinix Was Recognized for Marketing Excellence and Received TikTok for Business Overseas Marketing Awards
Infinix Was Recognized for Marketing Excellence and Received TikTok for Business Overseas Marketing Awards

Infinix Receives TikTok for Business Overseas Marketing Award

Infinix’s marketing prowess recently earned them TikTok for Business’s Overseas Marketing Award for being the “Innovator”, recognizing their standout efforts in the international markets. This prestigious award celebrates companies making waves globally, inspiring others with innovative marketing practices. Infinix’s success stems from its strategic approach, utilizing TikTok’s platform to its fullest. By embracing various gameplay options and collaborating with influencers, Infinix has effectively grown its brand from awareness to tangible results, showcasing the power of creative marketing.

Since its inception in 2013, Infinix has established a strong presence in overseas markets. The brand’s engagement with users through compelling content and its sales success on e-commerce platforms highlight a symbiotic relationship. Campaigns like Infinix Super Brand Day and the “Capture Your Own Story” Vlog Contest have been key successes, further cementing Infinix’s position as an innovative leader in the tech industry.

Game-Changing Innovations Unveiled at CES & MWC 2024

Infinix continued to make waves in the industry with its game-changing innovations showcased at CES and MWC. At CES, Infinix amazed the audience with the introduction of Infinix AirCharge, a revolutionary wireless charging technology that eliminates the need for cords or charging pads. This breakthrough innovation provides a hassle-free way to power up the devices. Additionally, Infinix unveiled the Extreme-Temp Battery, addressing the challenges of extreme temperatures to ensure smooth device performance in any environment. Infinix also introduced Infinix E-Color Shift, the industry’s first customizable display panel for smartphone appearances. At MWC, Infinix turned heads with their flagship mobile gaming concept, promising a new era of mobile gaming with top-notch performance and graphics. As 2024 unfolds, Infinix is poised to lead the way with more groundbreaking innovations, setting the stage for an exciting future.

For more details, visit: http://www.infinixmobility.com, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & X.

About Infinix

Infinix Mobility is a rapidly emerging technology brand that designs, manufactures and markets an expanding portfolio of smart devices worldwide under the Infinix brand, which was founded in 2013. Targeting today’s youth with first in class technology, Infinix creates trendy, powerful and attainably priced smart devices that bring the latest technology on the market to users around the world at a time when they need it at a price that they want.

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Explore the Heritage of Confucius: Ritual Artifacts, Music, and Traditional Attire

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HANGZHOU, China, March 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — On the afternoon of March 7, 2024, China National Silk Museum held the opening ceremony of the “Special Exhibition of Ritual Utensils, Musical Instruments and Costumes of the Kong (Confucius) Family Mansion”. And in “the Night of Rituals and Music”, a music feast was brought by the Xiaoshao Music Troupe of the Confucius Museum. They played with dozens of musical instruments such as set of bells, chime stones, qin, se and chi, restored with reference to excavated musical instruments and artifacts. The performance featured such pieces as “The Book of Poetry”, “Autumn Thoughts on the Dressing Table”, “Phoenix Seeking His Mate”, and “A Moonlit Night on the Spring River”, as well as the dance from the ancient rituals.

The Night of Rituals and Music
The Night of Rituals and Music

Confucius, a renowned philosopher, politician and educator in ancient China, was instrumental in promoting the rich traditions of ritual and music from the pre-Qin Period. Revered as the “Sacred Model Teacher for Ten Thousand Generations” by Chinese emperors, his system of belief involving philosophy, politics and ethics (subsequently known as Confucianism) has exerted profound influence on Chinese culture, including sartorial etiquette.

Located in his birthplace, Qufu City of Shandong Province, China, the Confucius Museum, which houses artifacts from the Confucius Mansion (also known as the Kong Family Mansion) housing the male direct descendants of Confucius, has a leading collection of over 100,000 collections; among them the ten ceremonial utensils of the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Within this remarkable collection, the series of Confucius portraits, crafted over various historical periods, and the authentic Ming and Qing dynasty garments and headwear stand out as particularly renowned treasures.

In a collaborative effort to illuminate the sage’s teachings, the China National Silk Museum and Confucius Museum are proud to present an exhibition in Hangzhou. This event will celebrate the legacy of Confucian virtues, the sophistication of ancient ceremonial practices, and the splendor of traditional Chinese fashion. The exhibition will feature nearly a hundred ceremonial instruments used in Confucius worship, originating from the Confucius Mansion collection, as well as Ming, Qing, and Republic-period garments and headpieces passed down through Confucius‘ lineage.

The exhibition will last till May 26, 2024. A series of events will be held during this period.

The Exhibition of Rituals and Music
The Exhibition of Rituals and Music

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MONEYME launches ‘Kick your goals’ campaign with Seven Network and AFL legend Luke Hodge

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SYDNEY, March 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Digital lender and non-bank challenger MONEYME (ASX: MME) has launched an above-the-line advertising campaign in partnership with the Seven Network, featuring TV commercials with respected AFL legend Luke Hodge.

(L-R) Richard Bray, Luke Hodge, James Falzon
(L-R) Richard Bray, Luke Hodge, James Falzon

The ‘Kick your goals’ campaign will set MONEYME up for increased brand awareness and consideration as the lender prepares for growth after a strong first half result and at a time when the economic outlook is improving.  

The campaign will see MONEYME featured throughout the AFL 2024 season and leverages significant prepaid media spend that was banked when MONEYME acquired SocietyOne in March 2022.

The campaign was developed in collaboration with the Seven Network’s in-house marketing solutions team 7RED and their creative team Red Engine and showcases how Australians can achieve their goals and aspirations faster with MONEYME’s online personal loans.

Luke Hodge, or “Hodgey” for short, is a former Australian rules footballer and will be part of Seven’s commentary team for the 2024 AFL season.

Hodgey played for the Hawthorn Football Club and the Brisbane Lions and is a four-time premiership player, three-time premiership captain, and a two-time Norm Smith Medallist. He is regarded as one of the most respected players, particularly as a captain, to have ever participated in the sport.

For the first time in AFL history, the Toyota AFL Premiership season will kick off with an ‘Opening Round’ comprising four matches in Queensland and New South Wales, which is when the campaign will make its debut, a week before the traditional ‘Round One’.

As part of the campaign execution, a series of captivating TV commercials will feature Hodgey exploring the common goals and aspirations of everyday Aussies, allowing viewers to witness relatable stories that reflect the diverse dreams of people across the country.

The campaign aims to inspire individuals to take the first step towards realising their aspirations and reinforces MONEYME’s commitment to supporting Australians on their financial journeys, according to MONEYME CEO, Clayton Howes.

Clayton Howes, CEO of MONEYME, said: “At MONEYME, we believe in empowering individuals to go after their ambitions, and the ‘Kick your goals’ campaign aims to demonstrate how our personal loans can accelerate their journey towards achieving their goals.

“We’re thrilled to kick off our partnership with the Seven Network to build the MONEYME brand this AFL season. This campaign by 7RED and Red Engine aligns perfectly with our positive perspective on the economic outlook as we pursue growth, and it’s a well-timed opportunity to use the prepaid media buy from our acquisition of SocietyOne.” 

Richard Bray, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer of MONEYME, said: “The ‘Kick your goals’ campaign emphasises the similarities between AFL players and Australians who strive to achieve their goals. Just like AFL players need a team behind them to succeed, sometimes regular Aussies need a little help to kick their own goals faster. That’s exactly what a MONEYME personal loan can provide – that financial help to accelerate their journey.”

In the Opening Round, Sydney will host Melbourne at the SCG starting on Thursday March 7th, followed by Brisbane versus Carlton at the Gabba on Friday night, March 8th. Gold Coast will then host Richmond at Heritage Bank Stadium on Saturday afternoon, March 10th, before Greater Western Sydney takes on reigning premiers Collingwood at GIANTS Stadium on Saturday night.

For more information about MONEYME and its ‘Kick your goals’ campaign, visit www.moneyme.com.au or follow MONEYME on social media. 

Credits

Red Engine
Head of Creative and Operations: James Falzon
Creative Manager: Benjamin Fletcher
Creative/ Director/ Editor: Samantha Power
Producer: Chris Seeto
DOP: Emilio Abbonozio
Production Designer: Madison Mullane
Stills Photographer: Natalie Alder
Socials: Rudge Hollis, Steve Watson, Josh Kind

7RED
Joint Ventures Business Manager: Ben Jones
Senior Campaign Manager: Amanda Soliman

MONEYME
CEO: Clayton Howes
Chief Marketing and Sales Officer: Richard Bray
Head of Marketing: Bryce Griffith
Head of Design: Gloria Torres
Brand and Communications Manager: Cecilia Bonnevier
Motion Graphic Designer: Marvyn Mendoza

About MONEYME

MONEYME is a founder-led digital lender and Certified B Corporation™.  We challenge the traditional ways of credit and simplify the borrowing experience with digital-first experiences that meet the needs of modern consumers.

We target customers with higher-than-average credit profiles through a range of fast, flexible, and competitively priced products, including car loans, personal loans, and credit cards.

Our point of difference is delivering unrivalled customer experiences powered by smart technology. From near real-time credit decisioning to loans that settle in minutes, we deliver speed and efficiency in everything we do.

We service ‘Generation Now’, ambitious Australians who expect more from life and the companies they engage with. We uphold a strong ethos of sustainability and hold ourselves accountable to the high standards of the B Corp movement.

MONEYME Limited is listed on the ASX, and the Group includes licensed and regulated credit and financial services providers operating in Australia.

For more information, visit moneyme.com.au or investors.moneyme.com.au 

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This La Scala-inspired chopped salad has gone viral. Here’s why — and how to make it.

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It’s not every day that something as benign as a salad goes viral, but here we are. The La Scala salad, which is essentially an Italian chopped salad made of lettuce, salami, mozzarella and garbanzo beans (aka chickpeas), is all over social media, with nutritionists and foodies sharing how to make the easy dish. While this type of salad is more popular than ever — Google Trends recently reported that searches for “chopped salad” are at an all-time high — it’s been around for decades. The La Scala chopped salad reportedly originates from a Beverly Hills restaurant of the same name that introduced it in the 1950s (and it’s still on the restaurant’s menu), while some attribute the salad’s more recent surge in popularity to the Kardashians and other celebrities being fans of the tasty meal.

So what is it about this salad that has some people salivating? And how do you make it? Here’s what you need to know.

Why is this chopped salad popular?

“As with many things in today’s world, we can thank a celebrity and social media, in this case, the Kardashians, for this salad’s popularity,” Keri Gans, a registered dietitian, nutritionist and author of The Small Change Diet, tells Yahoo Life. But beyond the celebrity factor, Gans says that when a salad is chopped and tossed, “it combines all the ingredients, adding more flavor to each forkful.”

Julie Pace, founder and dietitian at Core Nutrition + Wellness, agrees, telling Yahoo Life: “Chopped salads have become popular because they’re versatile, colorful and so easy to prepare. With fresh ingredients chopped into bite-sized pieces, they’re visually appealing and a convenient way to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures in each bite.”

In making a delicious salad, Pace says that dressing plays “a significant role” but notes that “various textures and flavors, such as crunchy nuts, crisp veggies, creamy avocado or tangy cheese can elevate the salad’s taste profile. Overall, the dressing should complement and enhance the flavors of the salad ingredients without overpowering them.”

Is it healthy?

Overall, the La Scala salad includes lots of healthy ingredients such as chickpeas, lettuce and olive oil, says Gans. Vanessa Rissetto, registered dietitian and chief executive officer of Culina Health, calls out the salad’s high-fiber chickpeas in particular, adding that they’re also a “good source of protein.”

However, Gans notes that the salad “may also skew on the high sodium side because of salami. As far as cheeses go, mozzarella is lower in saturated fat and sodium than many options. If an individual is on a low-sodium diet they may want to only enjoy this salad on occasion.”

Pace says opting for minimally processed ingredients and choosing dressings low in saturated fat, such as vinaigrettes, can contribute to a healthier option.

What are some misperceptions people have about salads?

Salads aren’t just a side dish — they can be a meal in themselves. The key, say all three experts, is making sure salads have enough protein so you’re not left hungry an hour after eating them. Pace says that salads can be a satisfying meal “when they include adequate protein and fiber to promote fullness. Incorporating sources of healthy fats like avocado, nuts and seeds can also contribute to satiety.”

The mistake that some make when putting together salads, says Rissetto, is when “people just put iceberg lettuce and lots of dressing, but forget things like protein for fullness and maybe some cheese for flavor. Nuts and seeds for omegas. There’s a lot more than just a dry piece of chicken to make your salad amazing — you just have to get creative!” Besides grilled chicken, Gans says that good sources of protein include salmon, legumes or shrimp.

Gans also notes that salads are not necessarily low in calories and in some instances, “it can be rather high,” adding: “One should be careful of the amount of salad dressing used, especially if it contains olive oil or other fats, as the calories could add up quickly.”

But overall, Gans says that “a salad is an opportunity to get many nutritious foods into your diet at one meal.”

What’s the recipe?

If you’d like to try making this chopped salad at home, you can find lots of recipes online. Here’s a recipe by chef and Big Bites cookbook author Kathleen Ashmore, who describes it as “like an Italian sub in salad form.”

Salad ingredients:

  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, rinsed and finely chopped

  • 1 ⁄4 lb. Italian salami, julienned

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 15 1/2 ounce can garbanzo beans, rinsed and well-drained

Dressing ingredients:

  • ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar

  • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard

  • 1/2 tsp. each salt and pepper

  • 1/4 cup grated pecorino romano OR parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Instructions:

  1. To make vinaigrette: In a large serving bowl, combine oil, vinegar, mustard, and salt and pepper to taste; whisk until well blended.

  2. To the bowl, combine lettuce, salami, mozzarella and garbanzo beans. Toss with vinaigrette to coat well.

  3. Finish with more pecorino and salt and black pepper, if desired.

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UOB data reveals women are powering spending with their rising affluence over last five years

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The Bank continues to meet women’s evolving needs and lifestyles with pioneering UOB Lady’s Card and Lady’s Savings Account

SINGAPORE, March 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — In line with International Women’s Day and to celebrate 35 years of Southeast Asia’s longest-running women-centric card, the UOB Lady’s Card in Singapore, UOB reveals data pointing to the growing economic power of women.

From 2019 to 2023, total card billings for the UOB Lady’s Debit and Credit Card in Singapore rose by about 70 per cent, while the total number of transactions conducted more than doubled within the same period. Average active spending per Lady’s Credit Card also rose by more than 50 per cent in the last five years.

Ms Jacquelyn Tan, Head of Group Personal Financial Services at UOB, said, “We celebrate women’s individuality and how they want to live, work and play. Our data shows that women today are becoming more financially independent, working towards their aspirational life goals like pursuing lifestyle experiences and building savings for the future. We leverage these useful insights to continually enhance our products and offerings for ladies. The UOB Lady’s Card and Lady’s Savings Account are a symbol of innovation and evolution. We work with a wide range of partners to curate the best rewards for our female customers, catering to their different lifestyles and life stages.”

Women seeking greater lifestyle and entertainment experiences

UOB has given women the empowerment of choice for their expenses. The UOB Lady’s Credit Card’s pioneering rewards category(ies) feature was introduced in 2019, allowing cardholders to select up to two preferred rewards category(ies) to earn rewards through transactions that best resonate with their lifestyles. Cardholders also have the flexibility to switch up their preferred rewards category(ies) every quarter. This innovative feature empowers women to take control of their rewards, earning higher returns and entitlements for their preferences even as their lifestyles and interests evolve.

From 2019 to 2022, “dining” and “fashion” consistently emerged as the top two enrolled preferred rewards category(ies). With the comeback of post-Covid travel, “travel” overtook “fashion” as the second highest enrolled category in 2023, after “dining”.

Based on Singapore credit card transactions, dining saw the steepest growth, increasing by about 150 per cent from 2019 to 2023. This was followed by entertainment-related spending[1], which grew by more than 90 per cent in the last five years. This is driven largely by its growth post-Covid, which saw a 175 per cent and over 140 per cent growth year on year in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Travel-related spending saw a similar spike in the last few years, growing by close to 300 per cent and over 160 per cent year on year from 2021 to 2022 and 2022 to 2023 respectively. Meanwhile, fashion-related spending[2] grew by close to 30 per cent.

Part of the growing popularity of lifestyle experiences can be attributed to the uptick in entertainment-related activities in the region, such as the ongoing Taylor Swift The Eras Tour in Singapore, alongside consumers’ burgeoning interest in this space. New female UOB cardholders in Singapore increased by almost 10 per cent in June last year in the week following the announcement of the global artiste’s concert. Close to 65 per cent of Singapore customers purchasing tickets during the 5 July presale and 7 July general sale were females.

Growing affluence of women consumers

Beyond their growing purse strings, women are also gaining financial affluence. Female customers’ total assets under management with UOB have increased steadily over the years, growing by close to 35 per cent from end-2020 to end-2023.

The growing pool of women qualifying for higher tiers of the UOB Lady’s Card also demonstrates the growth in women’s wealth and disposable income over the years. In Singapore, the number of approved UOB Lady’s Solitaire Cards[3], the upgraded tier of the UOB Lady’s Card, surged by over 250 per cent from 2019 to 2023. New acquisitions for the Bank’s by-invite-only limited edition UOB Lady’s Solitaire Metal Card, the first contactless World Elite Mastercard Metal Card in Southeast Asia, also more than doubled year on year.

Women are saving up more for rainy days

At the same time, women are also preparing to tackle the rising costs of living by futureproofing their finances. According to UOB’s ASEAN Consumer Sentiment Study 2023[4], more than 70 per cent of women in Singapore expressed concern over rising inflation, while more than 60 per cent were worried about their long-term financial commitments.

To combat this, women consumers are making efforts to accumulate more savings. As of December 2023, over 60 per cent of UOB’s Fixed Deposit accounts are opened by female customers. Average savings account balances owned by ladies also grew by 6 per cent year on year in 2023. Consumers are also maximising their savings and protection needs with UOB’s suite of products – the number UOB Lady’s Savings Account holders grew by more than 30 per cent year on year, while close to half of all UOB’s female customers in Singapore hold a high-yield savings account, such as the UOB One or Stash Account.

UOB empowers women to achieve both short- and long-term goals

As women today grow in their financial muscle, UOB believes in empowering them to take control of their money, to enjoy what they love without compromising on their future goals.

The UOB Lady’s Card launched in 1989 as the first-ever women-centric card in Southeast Asia, offering industry-leading rewards for women as they spend and save with the Bank. In 2020, UOB also introduced the first savings account designed for women, the Lady’s Savings Account. Together, this product suite provides innovative features like the ability to select preferred rewards category(ies) every quarter with the Lady’s Card, and insurance coverage of up to S$200,000 for six female cancers with the Lady’s Savings Account. These perks are specially aligned with how women’s roles, responsibilities and needs evolve over time.

UOB continually reviews its Lady’s Card and Lady’s Savings Account offerings, staying relevant to the evolving interests of women customers over the last 35 years. Both offerings will be enhanced and further details will be revealed in the coming weeks. 

About UOB

UOB is a leading bank in Asia. Operating through its head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, UOB has a global network of around 500 offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. Since its incorporation in 1935, UOB has grown organically and through a series of strategic acquisitions. Today, UOB is rated among the world’s top banks: Aa1 by Moody’s Investors Service and AA- by both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings.

For nearly nine decades, UOB has adopted a customer-centric approach to create long-term value by staying relevant through its enterprising spirit and doing right by its customers. UOB is focused on building the future of ASEAN – for the people and businesses within, and connecting with, ASEAN.

The Bank connects businesses to opportunities in the region with its unparalleled regional footprint and leverages data and insights to innovate and create personalised banking experiences and solutions catering to each customer’s unique needs and evolving preferences. UOB is also committed to help businesses forge a sustainable future, by fostering social inclusiveness, creating positive environmental impact and pursuing economic progress. UOB believes in being a responsible financial services provider and is steadfast in its support of art, social development of children and education, doing right by its communities and stakeholders.

[1] Includes spending on ticketing platforms, cinemas and attractions like theme parks

[2] Includes spending with online (e-commerce and marketplaces) and offline merchants

[3] The UOB Lady’s Solitaire Card has an annual income requirement of min. S$120,000

[4] In its fourth year, UOB ASEAN Consumer Sentiment Study 2023 was conducted from 1 to 26 June 2023 and surveyed 3,400 respondents online from Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam.

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Singapore Aquatics Announces HotelPlanner as Official Accommodation Partner

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HotelPlanner’s sponsorship will also help the association’s elite athletes and provide them with added training and competition opportunities

SINGAPORE, March 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — HotelPlanner, a leading travel technology company and hotel booking platform, has inked a two-year deal to be the official accommodation partner of Singapore Aquatics for 2024 and 2025.

Singapore's 4x100m medley relay team featuring Quah Ting Wen (from left), Quah Jing Wen, Singapore Aquatics President Mark Chay, and Christopher Lee, President of APAC at HotelPlanner.com, alongside Levenia Sim and Letitia Sim.
Singapore’s 4x100m medley relay team featuring Quah Ting Wen (from left), Quah Jing Wen, Singapore Aquatics President Mark Chay, and Christopher Lee, President of APAC at HotelPlanner.com, alongside Levenia Sim and Letitia Sim.

The sponsorship will allow international participants taking part in aquatic competitions in Singapore to rely on HotelPlanner’s platforms to plan their accommodation and travel itinerary with ease and efficiency. In addition, aquatics athletes in Singapore will also benefit from favourable HotelPlanner accommodation rates when travelling overseas for competitions and training camps.

HotelPlanner’s President of APAC, Mr Christopher Lee said: “We are thrilled to come on board as Singapore Aquatics’ official accommodation partner. This collaboration represents our shared commitment to support the development of the sport and contribute to the success of Singapore’s aquatics athletes and officials. With exciting opportunities for both our athletes to travel and compete overseas and for Singapore to welcome international athletes for competitions here, we’re confident HotelPlanner can add value to the aquatics ecosystem.”

HotelPlanner joins OCBC Bank, TYR and 100Plus as official partners for Singapore Aquatics, in support of athletes and officials across all aquatics sports. As part of the agreement, Singapore Aquatics and HotelPlanner will work towards strengthening and growing aquatics in Singapore through outreach events as well as provide added training and competition opportunities for athletes.

Singapore Aquatics’ President, Mr Mark Chay said: “We are thrilled to welcome HotelPlanner as our official accommodation partner in what promises to be an exciting two years for aquatics in Singapore.

“This year will be a busy year for our athletes as they prepare for the Paris Olympics in July before welcoming the world’s top swimmers for the World Aquatics Swimming World Cup in October. This will be followed by a hectic 2025 as we plan training and competition opportunities to help our athletes prepare for the 2025 World Championships in Singapore and the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand.

“We also hope our partnership with HotelPlanner will allow us to both develop and bring more events to Singapore as we push towards our goal of being a regional aquatics hub and a world-class aquatic nation.”

The partnership with HotelPlanner was announced during a media day with members of the women’s 4x100m medley relay team – Quah Ting Wen, Quah Jing Wen, Letitia Sim, and Levenia Sim – who became the first Singapore relay team to qualify for the Olympics.

The Quahs and Sims clocked 4 min 00.87 sec at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year but dealt a disappointing disqualification after Ting Wen jumped 0.1 sec too early. However, they made amends at the Doha 2024 World Aquatics Championships, clocking a new national record of 4 min 2.88 sec to book their tickets to the Paris Olympics.

National Head Coach of Swimming, Mr Gary Tan said: “The relay team have put in an immense amount of hard work and dedication to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics, and their achievement is truly well-deserved. Our goal is to ensure that the girls not only have the best possible experience during the Olympics but also achieve outstanding results. This is a pivotal moment for our aquatics community, and we are excited and determined to build on this momentum to continue strengthening and expanding our relay team for future successes.”

The HotelPlanner sponsorship will allow the relay team to explore both training and competitive trips to help them get in tip-top shape for the Paris Games.

Ting Wen, 31, who is set to compete at her third Olympics said: “We are really excited about this incredible opportunity to represent Singapore at the Paris Olympics. We’ve worked really hard to qualify, and after the disappointing disqualification at the Asian Games, finally making the cut is just an indescribable feeling. We’ve grown so much even though we’ve been racing for only a short time. I’m excited about what we can accomplish in the coming year.”

Levenia, 17, who is the rookie on the team said: “It’s been a whirlwind five months since I made my debut for Singapore. To qualify for the Olympics with my sister is something we’ve dreamed of and to be able to live that dream in Paris is something special.”

ABOUT HOTELPLANNER

HotelPlanner is a leading travel technology company and hotel booking platform that combines proprietary artificial intelligence, and a 24/7 global gig-based reservations and customer service network. HotelPlanner is one of the world’s leading providers of individual, group and corporate travel bookings. Founded in 2003, HotelPlanner has enduring partnerships with the world’s largest online travel agencies, well-known global hotel chains, individual hotels, online wedding providers, ancillary lodging providers, corporations, sporting organizations from youth to professional, universities, and government agencies. HotelPlanner’s family of brands includes its flagship site HotelPlanner.com, its meetings & events-focused sites Meetings.com; EventConnect.com; and Venuexplorer.com.sg; Lucid Travel, which focuses on sports team travel; and its most recent acquisition Eventsquid, which focuses on corporate and association event registration. Learn more at https://hotelplanner.com/.

ABOUT SINGAPORE AQUATICS

Singapore Aquatics (SAQ) is the National Sports Association governing aquatic sports in Singapore. These include five key disciplines – diving, open water swimming, swimming, artistic swimming and water polo. As the national governing body, SAQ spearheads its vision of developing the Republic to become a leader in aquatic sports – regionally as well as globally. Closer to home, SAQ collaborates with various affiliate clubs and stakeholders, to proactively nurture a greater depth of local talent through various outreach efforts and programmes. Our vision is to become a world-class aquatics nation, with the goal of making every Singaporean a swimmer.

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