5 12 月, 2021

New dialysis centre in Punggol to involve mobile patients in their own treatment for better health outcomes

SINGAPORE - A new dialysis centre was officially launched in Punggol on Sunday (Dec 5) that will see its mobile patients take responsibility for their dialysis sessions by measuring their own vitals and laying out medical supplies before starting treatment. This self-responsibility has been shown to improve patients' health outcomes as they are involved in their own treatment, said the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), which runs the new centre in Oasis Terraces at Punggol, in a statement. The new initiative is called "in-centre self-care". The more active and mobile patients will monitor their blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and learn proper handwashing steps before preparing and laying out the supplies required for dialysis, added the NKF. After the patient has opened and laid out the medical supplies, such as needles, alcohol swabs and saline solution, all the nurse has to do is insert the needles and cannula into the patient's arm and start the dialysis. The new centre brings the total number of NKF dialysis centres islandwide to 40, and it is the second largest after NKF's Integrated Renal Centre in Jurong West. It is also the first dialysis centre to be located in a new-generation neighbourhood centre such as Oasis Terraces, which also houses Punggol Polyclinic opposite the centre. Most other NKF centres are located at the void decks of Housing Board flats. "The centre's location in a neighbourhood centre means our patients are well-supported with easy access to affordable medical facilities, supermarkets, and food and beverage outlets," said NKF chief executive officer Tim Oei on Sunday. The centre has 35 dialysis stations and can take in up to 210 patients. It started operations in September 2019 and there are 208 patients receiving treatment at the centre currently. Initially planned for a mid-2020 launch, the centre's official opening was postponed because of the Covid-19 pandemic. On Sunday, Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean and Ms Yeo Wan Ling - both MPs of Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC - launched the new centre, named the NKF Dialysis Centre Supported by Ngiam Kia Hum & Family. Mr Ngiam is the managing director of Haneflex Singapore, a company that supplies fuel-handling equipment, and he has been a long-term donor with NKF. He started donating dialysis machines 15 years ago and wanted to help set up a new dialysis centre for the foundation. Mr Ngiam was spurred to support patients with kidney conditions after witnessing his old friend battle kidney disease many years ago. The new in-centre self-care initiative was introduced at the centre last month. Currently, one middle-aged patient has completed the training and five other patients have been identified to join the programme, said NKF. After undergoing a 2½-hour training with the centre's nurses, Madam Manisah Mohamad Salleh, 57, learnt to independently take her weight, measure her blood pressure, and remove medical equipment such as needles from the packaging in a safe and sanitary manner. For the past two weeks, Madam Manisah Mohamad Salleh has been measuring her vitals and preparing her medical equipment on her own before starting dialysis. PHOTO: NATIONAL KIDNEY FOUNDATION Learning to read the data from her medical reports and dialysis machine helped her understand why she had to limit her fluid intake to one litre a day, and watch out for rising or falling blood pressure, which can cause side effects or complications during dialysis. For the past two weeks, the retired assistant childcare teacher has been measuring her vitals and preparing her medical equipment on her own before starting dialysis. As a patient with stage four kidney failure, Madam Manisah has to undergo dialysis three times a week, with each session lasting four hours. "I can be independent and I understand my condition better. It also helps to ease the nurses' workload, so they have time to focus on other duties. I know how to practise self-hygiene and protect (the dialysis site) against infections," said Madam Manisah. More on this topic Related Story More people in S'pore getting kidney failure, but at a slightly later age Related Story New dialysis centre at Toa Payoh West CC; NKF steps up community outreach Seriously ill or wheelchair-bound patients will not be eligible for the self-care programme. The NKF nursing team introduced the programme to the centre after reading about how patient-responsibility initiatives benefited those undergoing dialysis in the United States. Mr Oei explained: "When patients are more involved in their treatment plans, they are more optimistic about their condition and more motivated towards improving their health. "Various studies conducted in the US have shown that patients reported improvements in quality of life including enhanced energy, improved appetite, and reduced sleep disorders." On top of having to cope with the physical symptoms of kidney failure and the side effects of dialysis - including dizziness and pain - patients are also affected by other stressors such as the loss of autonomy, uncertainties about the future, and depression, noted NKF. The new programme aims to ease those challenges for patients. This programme for mobile patients will be progressively rolled out to other NKF dialysis centres, starting with those in the northern region. Mr Teo said at the launch that renal disease is a growing problem in Singapore, with the number of people diagnosed expected to rise given the country's ageing population and rising prevalence of chronic diseases. "This centre will serve our patients in the north-eastern region of Singapore, including Punggol and Sengkang... We hope that (the self-care component) will allow our patients to develop greater confidence and independence, as well as control of their health," he added. The new centre was set up with funds from Mr Ngiam and his family, other donors, and a grant from the Government.

23 11 月, 2021

Buzz returns as hawker centres, coffee shops open to groups of 5 from different households

SINGAPORE - Hawkers and coffee shop stall owners saw the buzz return to their venues on Tuesday (Nov 23) morning, as patrons from different households were once again allowed to dine in groups of up to five. As part of the initial run of venues that will allow such groups, 11 hawker centres and seven coffee shops were identified as being able to control access, as well as conduct checks on the vaccination status of their customers. Hawkers The Straits Times spoke to saw more life on Tuesday morning compared to the weeks before, when only those from the same household could dine in together in groups of up to five. "You can feel the difference today, it's more busy," said Madam Ng Bee Leng, 57, whose family has been running Holland Village Homemade Soyabean at Holland Village Market and Food Centre since the the 1970s. "More parents have been bringing their kids here; I hadn't seen them in so long." She added: "I was surprised they chose (our hawker centre) because we're so small, the whole market only has 21 stalls and business has been very slow since they closed the (open-air and double-storey) car parks a few years ago." It was a similar case at Kampung Admiralty Hawker Centre in Woodlands. Mdm Ainun Hasan, 50, a full-time employee at Warong Lontong Fatimah stall, said: "The hawker centre feels a lot livelier today. Usually it's very quiet, especially since people order takeaway. Now that they allow five people to dine in, there are more families dining in, or even elderly people with their friends." ST visited several hawker centres and coffee shops across the island in areas such as Hougang, Woodlands and Holland Village on Tuesday morning and just before lunch. Some like Kampung Admiralty Hawker Centre in Woodlands and Beo Crescent Market in Tiong Bahru were almost fully occupied with the breakfast and lunch crowd respectively. Others like Holland Village Market and Food Centre and and Ci Yuan Hawker Centre in Hougang were only half occupied in the morning, while coffee shop The Patio in Sembawang was near empty just before lunch. At these selected hawker centres and coffee shops, there were a maximum of two entry points, which had additional reinforcements such as iPads to scan patrons' TraceTogether apps and tokens, and additional cordons to direct traffic flow. Fully vaccinated people or those who are eligible for dining at hawker centres were also given a sticker for identification. Different hawker centres had different coloured square stickers, that were slightly bigger than a $1 coin. Patrons at the entry point of Ci Yuan Hawker Centre on Nov 23, 2021. ST PHOTO: ONG WEE JIN However those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated can only purchase food to take away. Safe distancing officers dressed in white National Environment Agency (NEA) polo shirts and red arm bands, as well as safe distancing ambassadors in red shirts were also seen patrolling the various hawker centres. More on this topic Related Story Eateries in S'pore welcome back groups of up to 5 vaccinated people Related Story S'poreans, eateries welcome easing of Covid-19 curbs, including bigger group size for dining in Patrons ST spoke to welcomed the chance to dine together again with their friends. Three retirees were spotted chatting together over cups of coffee at Holland Village Market and Food Centre. One of them who wished to be known only as Mr Siu, 67, said that the trio would meet regularly at the food centre for their morning coffee before the pandemic struck. Diners dining in at Holland Village Market and Food Centre Another member of the group, who declined to be named, told ST: "Because the restrictions have relaxed a little, instead of going to each other's houses we decided to come here because it's midway from everyone's house. "We also chose to come here early this morning to avoid the crowd for safety reasons." More hawker centres and coffee shops will join the list of approved venues that can allow groups of five from different households by the end of November. The NEA and Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on Saturday said that the remaining hawker centres under NEA and NEA-appointed operators will have entry and vaccination checks by Nov 30, while coffee shops can come on board when they have put in place the necessary control measures. More on this topic Related Story Satay by the Bay among initial batch of coffee shops, hawker centres to allow 5 to dine in Related Story Dining, gathering group size raised: What you need to know about Covid-19 rules from Nov 22

22 11 月, 2021

Fire breaks out at Les Amis Group’s Spanish restaurant La Taperia in Shaw Centre

SINGAPORE - On Monday (Nov 22), the first day when eateries welcome back more vaccinated diners, a fire broke out at a Spanish restaurant under the Les Amis Group at Shaw Centre in Orchard. The incident happened at La Taperia and a spokesman for the group said for the safety of guests and staff, all of their concepts at Shaw Centre will be closed on Monday, until investigations have been fully conducted. The spokesman said: "We have closed off all new reservations for today and are contacting all affected customers. "We will do our best to offer them alternatives at our other concepts outside of Shaw Centre, if appropriate." La Taperia was nearly fully booked for lunch, the spokesman added. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said it was alerted to a fire at 1 Scotts Road at about 10.15am. The fire involved an electrical circuit box. It was extinguished by a water sprinkler system and by SCDF using one water jet. About 200 people self-evacuated from the premises before SCDF's arrival. There were no reported injuries, SCDF added. Fire breaks out at Les Amis' Spanish restaurant La Taperia in Shaw Centre When The Straits Times visited Shaw Centre at about noon, a burning smell hung in the air. The entrance to the retail side of the building had been taped off and shoppers were turned away by building staff and told to enter from another entrance. The ceiling on the ground floor was observed to be dripping with water and the ground was wet. A staff at a nearby restaurant not related to the group, who declined to be named, said they were preparing to open for the day at about 11.30am when security informed them of the fire and told them to evacuate. “We didn’t see any smoke at first but then there was thick heavy smoke on the second floor as we walked down the stairs. There wasn’t really panic. When we got outside there were a lot of people standing around waiting,” he said. SCDF and police officers outside Les Amis restaurant on the ground floor of Shaw Centre at about noon on Nov 22, 2021. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY Monday was the first day when vaccinated diners could eat at food and beverage outlets in groups of five, regardless of whether they live together. Restaurants under the Les Amis Group include the three-Michelin-starred Les Amis Restaurant and Japanese restaurant Aoki on the first storey of Shaw Centre, and Tarte by Cheryl Koh on the second storey and tendon eatery Tenjin on the third storey. Kitchen staffs seated opposite of Shaw Centre after a kitchen fire broke out on Nov 22, 2021. More on this topic Related Story Fire engulfs Tampines coffee shop; workers escape as vents above them explode Related Story Ceiling falls on firefighters in Outram Park shophouse blaze, two taken to hospital

18 11 月, 2021

The Executive Centre (TEC) Reaffirms Hong Kong Commitment With New AIA Central Centre

HONG KONG, Nov 18, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Executive Centre ("TEC"), the leading premium flexible workspace provider serving more than 36,000 Members in 32 cities across the world's fastest-growing economies of Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, today announces the opening of its new centre at AIA Central (the "Centre"), its 11th location in Hong Kong.The simulation of the Apollo at TEC's new AIA Central Centre.The new Centre located on the entire 15th floor of AIA Central will add over 280 workstations and approx. 15,000 sq ft of workspace to TEC's Hong Kong portfolio, an effort which demonstrates TEC's continuous commitment to help organisations provide the best-in-class, all-inclusive business-ready workspace in the best buildings in the city's CBD areas for their employees. "Our new Centre at AIA Central embraces a brand-new, contemporary design with the aim to provide highly aesthetic and functional spaces to support all aspects of work," said Nadia Zhu, Regional Managing Director of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan of TEC. "As companies worldwide are formulating new workplace strategies, TEC offers the flexible option to embrace hybrid work without losing the rituals of a workplace that facilitates your business success.""We are seeing sustainable growth and demand from the local Hong Kong market, evidenced by our stable and high occupancy rate in Hong Kong of approx. 90%. Our Consultancy and Financial Services focused client base has strengthened, the number of workstations taken by the two sectors grew 57% and 24% YoY respectively. Including the new AIA Central location, 7 out of 11 TEC Centres are located in grade A buildings in Central. With our strong belief in the importance and prestige of Central as Hong Kong's Core Business District, we will continue to strengthen TEC's presence in the district to provide a premium working experience to our Members."Designed by TEC's long-standing partner Fiona Hardie ID, the Centre at AIA Central will consist of more formal design tones, utilising materials such as aristo marble, walnut timber, and satin nickel for a chic and contemporary look. The warm ambiance, with soft curve design elements provides fluidity and movement, bringing the space to life.The AIA Central Centre is thoughtfully designed to enhance Members' office experience. There are breakout areas encouraging both downtime and collaboration, across expansive windows which welcome incredible views of the Victoria Harbour. To support the increased demand of video conferencing facilities, the new Centre features dedicated call and video conferencing rooms with built-in front ambient lighting, specifically designed to give a soft white warm illumination for the perfect look and provides maximum comfort whilst keeping distraction to a minimum."The new concept generated will spearhead a return to a contemporary designed corporate workplace. TEC at AIA Central will illuminate a more formal but welcoming corporate environment which I hope will encourage people to embrace the return to the office." said Fiona Hardie.The Centre will also feature and marks the landing of the first Apollo capsule in Hong Kong, which is one of only twenty-two in the world. Created by Timothy Oulton Studio, Apollo is a luxury lounge with a polished stainless-steel shell built to the same scale as NASA's Apollo 11 space capsule. The bespoke interior includes tufted Tomahawk Camel leather, an Alabaster dining table and a customised Odeon pendant, allowing Members to work and hold small-group meetings in imagination, splendour and privacy."TEC has always been the leader in commercial office design across APAC and we pride ourselves on constantly revamping the office space to provide the absolute best experience for our Members. We are honoured and delighted to be able to include the Apollo capsule in our AIA Central Centre. A beautifully designed and meticulously crafted artwork in itself, but also an inspiration for visitors to our Centre who would be reminded of the iconic moment it represents - when man achieved the impossible," said Paul Salnikow, Founder and CEO of TEC.The Apollo capsule will be available in the new TEC AIA Central Centre by the end of the year/early 2022.About The Executive CentreThe Executive Centre (TEC) is Asia's premium flexible workspace provider, opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1994 and today boasts over 150+ centres in 32 cities and 14 markets. It is the third largest serviced office business in Asia.The Executive Centre caters to ambitious professionals and industry leaders looking for more than just an office space - they are looking for a place for their organisation to thrive. TEC has cultivated an environment designed for success with a global network spanning Greater China, Southeast Asia, North Asia, India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Australia, with sights to go further and grow faster. Each Executive Centre offers a prestigious address with the advanced infrastructure to pre-empt, meet, and exceed the needs of its Members. Walking with Members through every milestone and achievement, The Executive Centre empowers ambitious professionals and organisations to succeed.Privately owned and headquartered in Hong Kong, TEC provides first class Private and Shared Workspaces, Business Concierge Services, and Meeting & Conference facilities to suit any business' needs.For more information, please visit www.executivecentre.comPress EnquiriesFinsbury Glover HeringSheena Shah / Crystal ChowSheena.Shah@Finsbury.com / +852 3166 9855Crystal.Chow@Finsbury.com / +852 3166 9838 Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

13 11 月, 2021

Grand Ming Group Holdings Limited Announces Interim Results for the Six Months Ended 30 September 2021

HONG KONG, Nov 12, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Grand Ming Group Holdings Limited (the "Company" and together with its subsidiaries, the "Group", stock code: 1271.HK) today announces its interim results for the six months ended 30 September 2021 ("FH 2021/22").Highlights:- Profit for the Period amounted to HK$69.2 Million- Declared an Interim Dividend of 4.0 HK Cents per Share- Revenue amounted to HK$586.1 million, a decrease of 25.4% from the last corresponding period.- Net profit was HK$69.2 million, representing a decrease of 1.4%.- Underlying profit, excluding changes in fair value of investment properties, decreased 65.0% to HK$29.2 million- Declared payment of an interim dividend of 4.0 HK cents per share.- Scale up investments in upgrading the infrastructure and facilities of its existing data centres and look forward to expand the build-to-lease high tier data centre network.- Seize opportunity to increase land reserve for property development in Hong Kong.- Execute the plan for property development in Nanning, Guangxi Province, China and eye to explore opportunities to step into the Greater Bay Area, both target for luxurious senior residential market.The Group's consolidated revenue decreased 25.4% from HK$786.1 million for the six months ended 30 September 2020 ("FH 2020/21") to HK$586.1 million for FH 2021/22. Decrease in revenue was attributed to lower revenue being recognised from the construction project in Kai Tak which was at the completion stage during the period under review.The Group's net profit for FH 2021/22 was approximately HK$69.2 million, representing a decrease of approximately 1.4% when compared to that of approximately HK$70.2 million for FH 2020/21. Earnings per share was 4.9 HK cents (2020: 4.9 HK cents). The Group's underlying profit for FH 2021/22, excluding the change in fair value of investment properties, amounted to approximately HK$29.2 million, representing a decrease of approximately 65.0% as compared to an underlying profit of approximately HK$83.4 million for FH 2020/21. Underlying earnings per share was 2.1 HK cents (2020: 5.9 HK cents). The decrease in net profit was mainly due to the combined effect of: (i) lower revenue and profit recognised from construction project in Kai Tak which was at the completion stage during FH 2021/22; (ii) lower margin attained from the sales of 5 typical units of Cristallo during FH 2021/22 as compared to sales of 1 duplex and 1 typical unit during FH 2020/21; and (iii) fair value gain from the revaluation of the Group's investment properties.The Board declares to pay an interim dividend of 4.0 HK cents (2020: 4.0 HK cents) per share, payable on 16 December 2021 to shareholders whose names appear on the Company's register of members on 3 December 2021.During FH 2021/22, revenue derived from the construction business decreased by approximately 43.4% or HK$233.7 million, from approximately HK$538.0 million for FH 2020/21 to approximately HK$304.3 million for FH 2021/22. The decrease was primarily because lower revenue was recorded from the construction project at Kai Tak that was at the completion stage during the period under review.The data centre leasing business achieved a healthy growth. Revenue derived from this segment increased by approximately 17.6% or HK$13.8 million, from approximately HK$78.1 million for FH 2020/21 to approximately HK$91.9 million for FH 2021/22, primarily driven by the increased utilisation of data centre spaces in iTech Tower 2 (one of the Group's current data centre in Kwai Chung). The Group on the other hand execute the plan to expand its data centre network by acquiring two land parcels at No.3 On Kiu Street and No.8 On Chuen Street in Fanling, the New Territories respectively in September 2020. These two lands are planned to develop into two new high-tier data centres which are targeted to deliver in mid-2025 and mid-2026. Application for change of land use of the two lands are now in progress.The Group's first property development project "The Grand Marine" at Tsing Yi, the New Territories is being developed into two residential towers with clubhouse and car park facilities. It provides a saleable area of approximately 345,000 square feet for 776 residential units. The property's pre-sale which began in November 2019 received applauding sentiment and over 92% of the residential units had been pre-sold contributing total contracted sales of approximately HK$4.8 billion. Interior fitting-out works are in progress and the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2021.The Group's luxury residential project, CRISTALLO, at No. 279 Prince Edward Road West, Kowloon was well sold. Sales and delivery of five apartments had been completed, and revenue of approximately HK$188.9 million was recognized accordingly. The Group continues to grow the property development business by actively replenishing its land banks. In January 2021, the Group acquired a land parcel at No.1 Luen Fat Street, Fanling, the New Territories and intends to develop into a residential-cum-retail complex with a total gross floor area of approximately 36,000 square feet. The Group has submitted development plan for approval and thereafter will proceed with the change of land use and land premiums application. In early October 2021 the Group acquired a site located at No. 41, 43 and 45 Pau Chung Street in To Kwa Wan, Kowloon and will redevelop it into a residential-cum-commercial project which comprises a residential tower with retail shops at the lower level covering a total gross floor area of approximately 31,000 square feet. The general building plan for this project had been approved. Its foundation works had already been completed, and the superstructure works is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2022. The Group rolls out the expansion into Mainland China as planned. In July 2021, it acquired its first land parcel through government public auction which is located at Guangxi-ASEAN Economic and Technological Development Zone, Wuming District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province with a site area of approximately 53,334 square metres. The Group plans to develop the land into a composite of residential and commercial complex coupled with luxury residence comprising villa and low-rise apartment for the elderly and retired and their families under the theme of leisure and healthy lifestyle. The land site had been handed over to the Group and site clearance works are now underway. Planning and design works are also in progress.Mr. Chan Hung Ming, Chairman and Executive Director of Grand Ming Group Holdings concluded, "Turning to the long-term, we believe sustainable growth of the Group lies in parallel development of our property development and data centre build-to-lease businesses. The residential property market in Hong Kong remained resilient even in midst of the severe pandemic period which boosts our confidence to actively accumulate our land bank for future development. The surging demand for high-tier data centres prevails as remote work and learning mode shifts to a long-term trend. We will stay focused for refining our data centre portfolio so as to provide up-to-date superior infrastructure and facilities for our customers, while looking for suitable sites to expand our data centre network. On the other hand, because of the boom of ageing population, we see huge potential in the senior housing market in Mainland China especially for affluent senior population. We finally make our first move into the Mainland China via the acquisition of the land parcel in Wuming, Nanning City, PRC and we will keep on exploring potential property development projects, in particular senior residence projects, in Nanning and cities in the Greater Bay Area."About Grand Ming Group Holdings Limited (Stock code: 1271.HK)The Group is principally engaged in the business of building construction, property leasing and property development. As a local wholesale co-location provider of high-tier data centres, the Group is one of the dedicated service providers in Hong Kong which owns and uses the entire building for leasing to customers for data centre use. Its clientele includes multinational data centre operator, telecommunications company and financial institutions. The Group owns and operates two high-tier data centre buildings, namely iTech Tower 1 and iTech Tower 2. It also acquired two pieces of land in Fanling, the New Territories for developing into two high-tier data centres. Furthermore, the Group launches a residential development project namely "The Grand Marine" at Sai Shan Road, Tsing Yi, as well as a luxury residential project, Cristallo, at Prince Edward Road West, Kowloon. The Group also owns a piece of land at No.1 Luen Fat Street, Fanling, New Territories with total gross floor area of approximately 36,000 square feet for developing a residential-cum-retail complex, as well as a site at No. 41, 43 and 45 Pau Chung Street, To Kwa Wan, Kowloon for redeveloping into a residential-cum-commercial project with a total gross floor area of approximately 31,000 square feet. In Mainland China the Group owns a piece of land at Guangxi-ASEAN Economic and Technological Development Zone, Wuming District, Nanning City, Guangxi Province with a site area of approximately 53,334 square metres. Please visit www.grandming.com.hk/eng/intro.php.Media Contacts:Angel Yeung Jovian Communications Ltd Email: news@joviancomm.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

8 11 月, 2021

Chance to get star-struck by Chilean astronomers at Science Centre event

SINGAPORE - The study of astronomy and life beyond Earth often takes place in extreme and remote regions, such as the Atacama desert in Chile. Spanning 105,000 sq km, about 140 times the size of Singapore, the Atacama desert is home to 70 per cent of the world's astronomical research, as well as major observatories such as the Atacama Large Millimeter Array, which consists of 66 radio telescopes constructed on a plateau 5km above sea level. What makes this dry and arid desert such an ideal location for astronomical research are the low humidity, the almost non-existent cloud cover, and its distance away from large cities which cause light pollution and radio interference. These, and other aspects of the Chilean astronomy community, will be shared during a four-day seminar titled "Chilean Astronomy: A Window to the Universe". The seminar is a collaboration between the Embassy of Chile and the Science Centre Singapore and runs from Monday (Nov 8) to Thursday. On the programme are a series of panel talks, film screenings and presentations by speakers from the Chilean astronomy community. The aim: to increase interest and awareness of astronomy among students and other young people. Chilean Ambassador to Singapore Ignacio Concha said his country's connection to the stars goes back centuries before the advent of modern technology. "Observations of the stars, planets and other celestial bodies occupied an important place in Chile's native pre-Colombian culture," he said. "There is even a movement which seeks to promote ethnic astro-tourism, to help visitors to understand the connection that people in the past had to the stars." Science Centre chief executive Lim Tit Meng said the event is a chance to learn about the mysteries of outer space through interaction with experts from the Chilean astronomy community. "It is our hope that through the event, Singaporeans can gain a better appreciation of the beauty of the night sky and the intriguing work that goes behind the field of astronomy," said Associate Professor Lim. He added it was not surprising that there is little interest in astronomy here given the high levels of light pollution. A 2016 study by researchers from the Light Pollution Science and Technology Institute in Italy found that Singapore was the country with the highest level of light pollution. Light pollution will be discussed in a presentation from the Globe at Night campaign on Tuesday. The campaign by citizen scientists aims to raise awareness of the impact of light pollution on the environment, wildlife and health. A round table on the final day of the seminar will focus on promoting careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem) among women and inclusivity at the workplace. The all-female team of panellists will share their experiences as well as initiatives that have been adopted to foster an inclusive, equal and diverse workplace in the field of astronomy, said Prof Lim. "This is especially relevant in a multiracial nation like ours," he said. Mr Concha added: "Chile's natural laboratory to observe the universe is a matter where the interests of both scientific communities can converge." The seminar is open to fully vaccinated individuals aged 12 years and older to attend in person at the Omni Theatre in Science Centre Singapore and each ticket costs $3. The seminar can also be viewed via live stream at this website. More information can be found at this website or on the Facebook page of the Science Centre Observatory. More on this topic Related Story Nasa could return astronauts on space station before replacements arrive Related Story 'Sad sight': French astronaut reports back on Earth's climate disaster

4 11 月, 2021

Hougang day care centre opens makeshift store to engage seniors bored from staying at home amid Covid-19 surge

SINGAPORE - A makeshift store sits in a corner of the NTUC Health Day Centre for Seniors (Ci Yuan) at Hougang Avenue 9, for seniors who miss the shopping experience. They had set it up in April, after learning that some of the 60 seniors who visit the centre were bored from staying safe at home amid the surge in Covid-19 cases. Centre supervisor New Lay Yeow, 52, said: "The seniors may miss going out to buy things for their family during this period, so we came up with the idea of setting up a booth in the centre for them." But first, mask on, they take part in activities such as colouring and stretch band exercises to keep them occupied. Each activity is worth one point. "To encourage our seniors to continue with centre activities and stay engaged during Covid-19, we also award them points when they come to the centre," said centre manager Yang Zou Fang, 41. They hope to run the store once every month, from its current once every three months schedule. Seniors can redeem items such as toilet rolls, biscuits, canned food, handicrafts made by the seniors, umbrellas and thermal bottles for between 20 and 1,000 points. Mr Philip Lingesvaran Alagan, who has been with the centre since 2017, is currently unvaccinated. His doctor had advised him against the vaccination due to his diabetes and high blood pressure. He also suffered a stroke in 2006. The 59-year-old, who is currently unemployed, turns up at the centre every week day to participate in the activities including the stretch band exercises and weight lifting with water bottles. He currently has 400 point and is saving up for the thermal bottle, which can be redeemed for 1,000 points. "It's very good and everyone at the centre can join in and talk about how they are going to spend their points," he said. NTUC Health Senior Day Care Staff Yang Zou Fang (left) and New Lay Yeow at the NTUC Health Day Centre for Seniors. PHOTO: NTUC HEALTH Almost all of the seniors are fully vaccinated. For the others, the care staff have been educating, responding to queries and seeking consent from them and their caregivers to facilitate the vaccination and booster shots. It is about striking a balance, the centre said - keeping the seniors safe and updated with Covid-19 news and measures while ensuring they remain active. Ms Yang said: "We tell them to not go out so often after they leave the centre because some of them like to go to the coffeeshop to be with friends." Mr Philip said the daily news-sharing sessions and reminders by staff at the centre have helped. "I have learnt to keep my mask on when I go out, practice good hygiene and also try not to go out unless necessary," he added. More on this topic Related Story About 60 unvaccinated seniors get Covid-19 every day, six likely to end up in ICU Related Story Seniors in S'pore find it hard to stay home in order to stay safe amid Covid-19 About one in four residents in Hougang are those aged 60 and older, government data shows. The estate has had a number of scares. Hougang Avenue 8 was a Covid-19 cluster twice this year - at Block 506, with 13 residents, and at the Giant supermarket in Block 683 when several employees tested positive. A new Covid-19 cluster has emerged in the nearby Institute of Mental Health (IMH), with 116 cases as at Oct 25. It is why Dr Tan Heng Kwang, who has been running the Neighbourhood Medical Clinic in Hougang Avenue 8 for 33 years, is staying alert. The 66-year-old said about 20 per cent of his patients who are seniors are unvaccinated. So he makes it his daily routine to educate them, by using childhood immunisation as an example. "You have kids or grandchildren right? When they go for the measles vaccine, they will also get fever, be unwell for a few days and develop rashes," he said. It is also important to educate their children as some think the seniors do not need to be vaccinated because they are homebound, added Dr Tan. Community groups like the Man Fut Tong Welfare Society have also joined in the efforts to keep seniors safe and engaged. The society's vice-president - Madam Carolynne Ng, 49 - said the organisation has been giving groceries and food to residents since 2018. They are currently helping about 500 families in Hougang. About 80 per cent of the residents they assist are seniors. In June, when the Government announced that not enough seniors were getting vaccinated, she adjusted the programme. "We asked them to show us their vaccination status to receive their meals. "If they are not vaccinated, we will not reject them, but will remind them to be vaccinated by next week. We tell them we can help them make an appointment as well," said Madam Ng. Her son, Joshua Tan, and a group of 10 young volunteers, also came up with a membership card system in early May to prevent overcrowding during the collection, track the residents' vaccination statuses and ensure their safety. Those who are fully vaccinated would be issued a sticker, which will be pasted at the top of the card. The cards also help in contact tracing. "We write down the numbers on the card (before collection), so that in the situation where one of the residents is tested positive later, we are able to track the time they made their collection and trace back to the people who queued in front of and behind them," said Joshua, a 14-year-old student who started volunteering last June. Cleaning supervisor Sim Kew Beng, 63, has been volunteering with his wife since they moved to the estate in 2014. More on this topic Related Story Fully vaccinated seniors can participate in some PA classes, activities from Monday Related Story GPs, community groups working to persuade seniors to get vaccinated Mr Sim, who has taken his booster shot, has accompanied more than 10 senior residents to get their shots. "It is important not to scold them... but tell them a lot of people have taken it, so there is nothing to be afraid of. He said as a senior himself, he feels an obligation as well. "We are seniors and it is also our part to encourage them to go for the vaccine," said Mr Sim. • There are others working to keep neighbours safe from Covid-19. Tell ST about the experience in your estate.

18 10 月, 2021

Action can be taken against those who flood govt hotlines, incite others to do so: Ministries

SINGAPORE - The authorities will not hesitate to take action against people who disrupt essential call centre operations or encourage others to do so. This includes those who call the National Care Hotline and other government phone lines "with the intention of overwhelming and disrupting" such operations. "The incitement and carrying out of actions that aim to disrupt any essential call centre operations is illegal," said the Ministries of Health and Social and Family Development on Sunday (Oct 17), in response to queries from The Straits Times. "We take this matter very seriously, and will not hesitate to work with the police and enforcement agencies to take action where necessary." Last week, several chat groups on messaging app Telegram had called on members to "flood" government phone lines - including both ministries' hotlines - under the guise of giving feedback on the latest measures that bar unvaccinated people from entering malls and other public spaces. "Get people to demand this gets pushed up to the call centre manager. And ask for them to revert back," the message said. "Otherwise call again tmr (tomorrow) and ask for any feedback." In their joint statement, the ministries said these hotlines are important channels for Singaporeans in need to seek timely help. They urged everyone to exercise social responsibility and not deny genuine callers the opportunity to seek help. The Health Ministry saw a surge in calls to its hotline last month, as people on the home recovery programme dialled in to ask for help on their specific circumstances. This resulted in complaints after some people were not able to reach a phone operator. "With the already high call volumes that are being registered every day, such spamming will lengthen waiting times and frustrate genuine callers and may, in some cases, keep some Singaporeans from receiving critical assistance," the ministries said. More on this topic Related Story National Care Hotline for psychological first aid received more than 45,000 calls since April last year Related Story Covid-19 patient recovering at home could not get clear instructions on what to do

23 9 月, 2021

New simulation training centre at Tanglin Police Division for front-line officers

SINGAPORE - Front-line police officers now have greater access to simulation training with the opening of a new satellite centre at Tanglin Police Division. Officers can practise reacting to various emergency scenarios, such as when people are trapped in their homes, attempt suicide, or if a suspicious parcel is spotted in public. Launched on April 9, the satellite centre is an addition to the simulation centre in the Home Team Academy (HTA) in Choa Chu Kang that opened roughly three years ago. HTA's simulation centre focuses primarily on training officers to manage large-scale security incidents, such as riots, and joint operations. The new satellite centre extends simulation training beyond this group to include front-line officers who operate on a smaller scale - responding to 999 emergency calls, for example. Around 10 such sessions have been conducted so far. As in a virtual reality game, officers in different rooms watch scenes unfold in 3D on their screens as they react and communicate through their headsets. The satellite centre is split into three sections - the control room, command post and on-scene pods. The directors of the exercise - up to two of them - are stationed in the control room to execute scenarios and control the flow of the exercise. The command post, which holds up to five officers, is where orders are issued to the responders. Two first responders are stationed at the on-scene pods. They are required to act quickly and their actions are reflected live on the screens of the officers at the command post. "More than 2,000 officers have undergone training (at HTA's simulation centre) and gave feedback that it is realistic and immersive. It allows them to practise in a safe environment without the fear of making mistakes," said Superintendent Jerlyn Tan, senior assistant director of the centre for Home Team Simulation. "Because of the positive feedback... we want to bring this simulation system to front-line officers and allow them to use it at a higher frequency," said Supt Tan. Superintendent Jerlyn Tan, senior assistant director of the centre for Home Team Simulation. PHOTO: HOME TEAM ACADEMY Up to 40 commanders and officers from different Home Team departments can be trained at the same time in joint operations across Tanglin Police Division and the HTA. Assistant Superintendent of Police Andy Wang, who trains front-line officers to perform their duties, said: "The satellite centre allows for training to be conducted frequently with fewer logistics, manpower and set-up time." Tackling a bomb threat in Orchard Road, for example, can be mimicked in a simulation without having to cordon off or close down the busy shopping district. Said Supt Tan: "There is an ongoing review for the satellite centre on its effectiveness... Looking forward, it's definitely our aim to develop more of such centres with the various Home Team departments." More on this topic Related Story Singapore police to get new cameras, drones, guns and training bots Related Story Use force or negotiate? A look at how the S’pore police handle tense stand-offs

21 9 月, 2021

Ex-assistant director of now-defunct childcare centre chain fined for role in govt subsidy scam

SINGAPORE - The former assistant director of a now-defunct childcare centre chain conspired with two others to scam a government agency into wrongfully disbursing nearly $5,000 in childcare subsidies. Arulanandam Rajeswary, who was the principal at several Faith Educare childcare centres before she was promoted, was fined $6,000 on Tuesday (Sept 21). The 53-year-old pleaded guilty to two cheating charges involving $2,100 of the sum wrongfully disbursed. Another six similar charges were taken into consideration during sentencing by District Judge Wong Li Tein. Rajeswary had conspired with two other accomplices - Josephine Tan Poh Choo, 53, and Fatimah Bivee Mohd Shariff, 43 - to submit multiple false subsidy claims to the Early Childcare Development Agency (ECDA)in 2016. The claims were for children who did not or had yet to attend the childcare centres. Tan was the director and shareholder of the centres, while Fatimah was the principal at two of them. Sometime in 2015 or January 2016, Tan instructed Rajeswary to submit basic childcare subsidy claims to the ECDA for children who did not or had yet to attend the centres. Rajeswary was to use information previously obtained in forms submitted to the childcare centres by parents seeking to apply for the subsidies. She was also to "confirm" the children's attendance in the ECDA's Childcare Link System, where the subsidy claims are submitted. Fatimah would sign "on behalf" of the parents in the "sign-in and sign-out" records to show that the children were purportedly there. The ECDA disbursed $4,800 as a result of the false claims by the trio. It made a police report on Aug 31, 2016. Court documents did not state how the offences were discovered. Rajeswary and Fatimah did not directly benefit from the conspiracy to cheat the agency, said the court documents. Tan had made full restitution of the amount that was wrongfully disbursed. More on this topic Related Story Former childcare centre director, 2 employees charged with making fake subsidy claims Related Story Ex-director of defunct childcare centre chain fined $10,500 for govt subsidy scam Rajeswary is the last member of the trio to be dealt with. Tan was fined $10,500 on July 6, while Fatimah was fined $3,000 on July 1. In Tan's case, the court had heard that she sold the centres in December 2019. For each of her cheating-related charges, Rajeswary could have been jailed for up to three years, or fined, or both. More on this topic Related Story Company director used false documents of fictitious transactions to cheat banks of over $10m Related Story Courts & Crime: Read more stories

17 9 月, 2021

Colt致力于2030年前在全球实现净零排放

HONG KONG, Sep 17, 2021 - (亚太商讯 via SEAPRWire.com) - Colt集团，连同旗下Colt Technology Services及Colt Data Centre Services（Colt DCS），今日宣布其所有运营业务将致力于2030年前实现全球净零碳。作为科技业领域关键的企业，集团通过开发崭新及现有技术，展现加速迈向零碳经济过程的决心。Colt已制定了全面性、以科学为基础的减排目标，并通过科学基础减碳目标倡仪（SBTi）的审核。预计到2030年前，集团将在范畴1（Scope 1）及范畴2（Scope 2）减少46%的排放，同时会与供应商密切合作，以大幅降低供应链在范畴3（Scope 3）的排放量，追求于2030年前将全球暖化限制在远低于2°C的情境。此举乃基于深值于本集团的可持续发展战略，亦是集团的企业DNA与未来业务战略的核心。「作为一家企业，我们积极促进科技业的变迁，并了解其急迫性而为减排承诺完全的责任。对于能够立下此里程碑，并致力于科学基础目标，让人感到振奋。」Colt Technology Services首席执行官Keri Gilder表示：「Colt有明确的目标基准：我们旨在成为可持续发展领域的市场领导者，不仅减少我们的排放量，同时协助客户实践他们的可持续发展过程。」Colt集团设定了广泛的目标，包括中期目标，用以表明企业信誉以及立即可执行的承诺。参阅目标如下：- 于2023年前，在全球所有的站点使用75%再生电源- 于2025年前，93%的供应链排放符合升温控制在1.5°C以内的科学基础减碳目标（SBT） - 于2025年前，38%的公司车辆使用电动车，于2030年时要达到75% - 于2030年前100%改用可再生天然气Colt的气候战略于内部将专注从运营到服务层面的减碳，这意味着根据科学需要，在气候影响并减少碳排放上，衡量并披露集团的表现。任何本集团无法减少的排放，则将提供资金，通过高诚信的碳移除加以抵销。「我们的业务对地球带来实质的影响。而我很高兴在此宣布， Colt DCS的所有运营都已开展在2030年前实现全球净零排放的过程。」Colt Data Centre Services首席执行官Niclas Sanfridsson进一步表示：「这只是开端，我们的可持续发展战略将继续确保我们成为世界最大的超大规模数据中心客户的首选合作伙伴。对于在未来十年采取展现决心的行动，以实现《巴黎协定》和全球目标，从而应对过去20年来最大的行业挑战上，我们已准备妥当，而我对此感到信心十足。」「对我们来说，气候行动将创造长远价值，同时精准、可靠地减少排放。唯有如此，我们才能帮助实现全球减碳，以避免气候变化所造成的灾难性影响。」关于ColtColt 致力于通过连线的力量来改变世界运作的方式，这一直是公司致力促进客户成功的DNA。Colt IQ Network连结了欧洲、亚洲和北美巨型商业中心逾900间数据中心、逾29,000栋网内建筑。Colt了解今日连线要求的最新变化，並提供敏捷、按需且安全的高宽带网路及语音解决方案，确保企业蓬勃发展。旗下客户遍及超过30个国家中逾210个城市的数据密集型企业。Colt是软件定义网路(SDN) 与网路功能虚拟化 (NFV) 方面公认的创新者与先驱。作为私营公司，Colt乃是业内财务最稳健的企业之一，能够将客户需要置于业务核心。更多的信息，请浏览：https://colt.net.媒体联络人 Henry Chow / Sharon TengThink Alliance Group for Colt电话：+852 3481 1161 / +886 2 8758 2769电邮：colt@think-alliance.com关于Colt Data Centre Services（Colt DCS）Colt Data Centre Services为欧洲及亚太地区的客户，在超大规模数据中心及混合云解决方案的设计、建构、交付及运营管理方面，提供真正的服务及运营卓越性。我们在18个城市运营26个最先进的电信中心机房数据中心方面，拥有逾25年经验，提供24/7全天候的安全保障并提供当地语言支援。我们的连线及托管解决方案让客户具有自由度，能有效为其业务增长进行规划，因为他们了解使用我们的数据中心战略让其为明日的需求做好准备。更多关于Colt DCS的信息，请浏览www.coltdatacentres.net媒体联络人：Adeela MahmoodAdeela.mahmood@colt.net Copyright 2021 亚太商讯. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

3 9 月, 2021

TEC case study on the Future of Work found that an increased number of their employees wanted greater workplace flexibility

HONG KONG, Sep 2, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The office of the future must be an inspiring physical space that facilitates communication, cooperation and collaboration in order to encourage employees to come into the office, according to the latest case study by The Executive Centre ("TEC"), the leading premium flexible workspace. Modern technology and globalised communication systems have allowed us to become a more agile and mobile workforce, and these trends have accelerated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The workforce culture today is increasingly championing flexible working practices as the Future of Work, leading to a shift for multinational corporates towards adopting a flexible work culture through an extensive review and analysis of their portfolio and employee needs. The case study reviews the learnings and provides a roadmap for other organisations that realise the value of flexibility but find it challenging to create an architecture to empower change.One of the key learnings is that for companies to successfully transition towards flexible working practices, they need to understand their business requirements and priorities first, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution. They must also interview and collaborate with their employees extensively, conduct research to make informed decisions, seek external consultations from multiple industry partners, and understand where their operations need to be geographically and how the occupants will use that space. While the company approach must be tailored, there were three factors that all companies should consider in their workplace strategy: Physical, Digital and Social.-- Physical transformation: As people will be coming into the workplace to perform activities that they cannot do at home, office design will become one that facilitates communication, cooperation and collaboration.-- Digital transformation: With an increasing demand to work flexibly and remotely, technology and digitalisation of workflows will play a pivotal role in enabling day to day productivity.-- Social transformation: As the office will become a place where employees choose to work from, greater incentives will be needed to attract people into the office.For its Greater Bay Area location, one of TEC's clients realised it required private office spaces and meeting rooms in a CBD location which would allow for multiple business units to operate, and a flexibility to scale up or down as their business needs changed. The Executive Centre's flexible workspace solution gave them the ability to mitigate their risks and reduce costs while remaining in the heart of Guangzhou's central business district. "As a solution, flexible workspaces provide ready to use, fully furnished and serviced workspaces for the headcount that's needed at hand. This ability to scale up or down or move locations at relatively short notice is a highly intelligent way for companies to address their workspace requirements," said Paul Salnikow, Founder & CEO of The Executive Centre. See the full case study from the below link for more insights and best practices The Executive Centre's Future of Work collaboration. https://business-reporter.co.uk/2021/08/23/why-the-future-of-work/.About The Executive CentreThe Executive Centre (TEC) opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1994 and today boasts over 150+ centres in 32 cities and 14 markets. It is the third largest serviced office business in Asia with annual turnover in excess of US$237 million.The Executive Centre caters to ambitious professionals and industry leaders looking for more than just an office space - they are looking for a place for their organisation to thrive. TEC has cultivated an environment designed for success with a global network spanning Greater China, Southeast Asia, North Asia, India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Australia, with sights to go further and grow faster. Each Executive Centre offers a prestigious address with the advanced infrastructure to pre-empt, meet, and exceed the needs of its Members. Walking with Members through every milestone and achievement, The Executive Centre empowers ambitious professionals and organisations to succeed.Privately owned and headquartered in Hong Kong, TEC provides first class Private and Shared Workspaces, Business Concierge Services, and Meeting & Conference facilities to suit any business' needs.For more information please visit www.executivecentre.comPress EnquiriesFinsbury Glover HeringSheena Shah / Crystal ChowSheena.Shah@fgh.com / +852 3166 9855Crystal.Chow@fgh.com / +852 3166 9838 Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

2 9 月, 2021

TEC case study on the Future of Work: Standard Chartered Bank found that around 75% of their employees wanted greater workplace flexibility

HONG KONG, Sep 2, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The office of the future must be an inspiring physical space that facilitates communication, cooperation and collaboration in order to encourage employees to come into the office, according to the latest case study by The Executive Centre ("TEC"), the leading premium flexible workspace and Standard Chartered Bank. Modern technology and globalised communication systems have allowed us to become a more agile and mobile workforce, and these trends have accelerated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The workforce culture today is increasingly championing flexible working practices as the Future of Work. Standard Chartered Bank is leading the shift for multinational corporates towards adopting a flexible work culture through an extensive review and analysis of their portfolio and employee needs. Sheridan Perkins, Property Program Director of Future Workplace, Now at Standard Chartered Bank said, "Initially, we assumed maybe 50% of our employees wanted Flex, but actually from our survey we found that over 75% wanted it. Typically, this was 2-3 days at home and 2-3 days at the office or a third space. Despite some regional nuances, this finding was reasonably consistent across all regions."The case study reviews the learnings from Standard Chartered Bank's exercise and provides a roadmap for other organisations that realise the value of flexibility but find it challenging to create an architecture to empower change.One of the key learnings is that for companies to successfully transition towards flexible working practices, they need to understand their business requirements and priorities first, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution. They must also interview and collaborate with their employees extensively, conduct research to make informed decisions, seek external consultations from multiple industry partners, and understand where their operations need to be geographically and how the occupants will use that space. While the company approach must be tailored, there were three factors that all companies should consider in their workplace strategy: Physical, Digital and Social.-- Physical transformation: As people will be coming into the workplace to perform activities that they cannot do at home, office design will become one that facilitates communication, cooperation and collaboration.-- Digital transformation: With an increasing demand to work flexibly and remotely, technology and digitalisation of workflows will play a pivotal role in enabling day to day productivity.-- Social transformation: As the office will become a place where employees choose to work from, greater incentives will be needed to attract people into the office.For its Greater Bay Area location, Standard Chartered Bank realised it required private office spaces andmeeting rooms in a CBD location which would allow for multiple business units to operate, and a flexibility to scale up or down as their business needs changed. The Executive Centre's flexible workspace solution gave them the ability to mitigate their risks and reduce costs while remaining in the heart of Guangzhou's central business district. "As a solution, flexible workspaces provide ready to use, fully furnished and serviced workspaces for the headcount that's needed at hand. This ability to scale up or down or move locations at relatively short notice is a highly intelligent way for companies to address their workspace requirements," said Paul Salnikow, Founder & CEO of The Executive Centre. Shelley Boland, Head of Property Asia Pacific, Standard Chartered Bank added, "The talent of the future are expecting flex; whether that's flexible work hours or locations. Successful adopters of flex will be those that have the foresight to model and visualise how workplace changes may affect business outcomes, operations and employees, and be agile enough to constantly evolve their workspace to those needs. We see flexible office spaces playing a greater role in that strategy."See the full case study from the below link for more insights and best practices from Standard Chartered Bank and The Executive Centre's Future of Work collaboration. https://tinyurl.com/3vkbezynAbout The Executive CentreThe Executive Centre (TEC) opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1994 and today boasts over 150+ centres in 32 cities and 14 markets. It is the third largest serviced office business in Asia with annual turnover in excess of US$237 million.The Executive Centre caters to ambitious professionals and industry leaders looking for more than just an office space - they are looking for a place for their organisation to thrive. TEC has cultivated an environment designed for success with a global network spanning Greater China, Southeast Asia, North Asia, India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Australia, with sights to go further and grow faster. Each Executive Centre offers a prestigious address with the advanced infrastructure to pre-empt, meet, and exceed the needs of its Members. Walking with Members through every milestone and achievement, The Executive Centre empowers ambitious professionals and organisations to succeed.Privately owned and headquartered in Hong Kong, TEC provides first class Private and Shared Workspaces, Business Concierge Services, and Meeting & Conference facilities to suit any business' needs.For more information please visit www.executivecentre.comPress EnquiriesFinsbury Glover HeringSheena Shah / Crystal ChowSheena.Shah@fgh.com / +852 3166 9855Crystal.Chow@fgh.com / +852 3166 9838 Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

26 8 月, 2021

The Executive Centre Expands Its Central Footprint With The Help Of CBRE By Securing Prime Space In AIA Central

HONG KONG, Aug 26, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - As demand for flexible workspaces in Hong Kong continues to grow, Asia's leading premium flexible office solutions provider, The Executive Centre (TEC), is expanding its portfolio in the City. Assisted by CBRE Hong Kong, the company has secured another prime location in Central to satisfy rising demand for top-tier flexible workspace. AIA Central, 1 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong The Executive Centre"This modern, flexible and well-equipped workspace situated in a highly desirable location will be an attractive proposition for clients, particularly those in the financial services sector," says Ada Fung, Executive Director, Head of Advisory & Transaction Services - Office Services, CBRE Hong Kong. "We're delighted to have played an important role in securing the entire 15th floor of AIA Central at 1 Connaught Road, encompassing approximately 15,000 sq. ft. of lettable space."Nadia Zhu, Regional Managing Director of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan of The Executive Centre, is excited to be adding another prime Grade-A office space to the company's existing portfolio, and to offer turn-key office space solutions to a wider audience with the aim of empowering productivity and facilitating meaningful business collaboration."At TEC, we're confident that Hong Kong will remain a key global business hub for years to come. As a business that has over 25 years of operational experience, we are committed to both continuing our growth and supporting our clients as they grow. Each of our Centres offers a prestigious address with advanced infrastructure such as private offices, business concierges, meeting rooms, coworking spaces and event spaces to meet our clients' every business need," said Nadia Zhu. The future of work is shifting to a more hybrid model, and flexibility is essential for future workspace strategies. Flexible workspaces such as the new TEC Centre at AIA Central opens up the possibility for an agile, mobile and reactive workforce, which in turn bolsters business resiliency. Once the new location at AIA Central opens in November 2021, TEC will have 11 Centres in Hong Kong totaling over 232,000 sq. ft. of floor space. The company's seven locations in Central, including One IFC and Hong Kong Club Building, were also secured by CBRE previously.The new TEC office space at AIA Central will embrace a new design direction by designer Fiona Hardie ID, featuring a neutral hue of white and grey. Minimalist details and clean lines combining with organic profiles will provide a sense of fluidity and movement to the workspace, while the mixed use of marble, timber, satin nickel, and gently textured hand applied wall finishes will add details to the beautiful contemporary workspace. Follow us on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/cbrehongkongInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cbre_hongkong/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/cbreAnd on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cbre-asia-pacific About CBRE Group, Inc. CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE: CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, is the world's largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2020 revenue). The company has more than 100,000 employees serving clients in more than 100 countries. CBRE serves a diverse range of clients with an integrated suite of services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.About The Executive CentreThe Executive Centre (TEC) opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1994 and today boasts over 150+ centres in 32 cities and 14 markets. It is the third largest serviced office business in Asia with annual turnover in excess of US$237 million.The Executive Centre caters to ambitious professionals and industry leaders looking for more than just an office space - they are looking for a place for their organization to thrive. TEC has cultivated an environment designed for success with a global network spanning Greater China, Southeast Asia, North Asia, India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Australia, with sights to go further and grow faster. Each Executive Centre offers a prestigious address with the advanced infrastructure to pre-empt, meet, and exceed the needs of its Members. Walking with Members through every milestone and achievement, The Executive Centre empowers ambitious professionals and organizations to succeed.Privately owned and headquartered in Hong Kong, TEC provides first class Private and Shared Workspaces, Business Concierge Services, and Meeting & Conference facilities to suit any business' needs.For more information, please visit www.executivecentre.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theexecutivecentre/ And on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-executive-centre/ Contact:Cora LaiCommunications ManagerMarketing & CommunicationsHong Kong(+852) 2820 1466cora.lai@cbre.comPebble LeeGlobal Public Relations ManagerThe Executive Centre(+852) 3951 9530pebble_lee@executivecentre.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

10 8 月, 2021

Quarantine for staff and patients of NKF dialysis centre with Covid-19 cluster

SINGAPORE - All front-line staff and some patients of the NKF Dialysis Centre (Sakyadhita) in Boon Keng have been placed on quarantine after it was announced on Monday (Aug 9) that there was a Covid-19 cluster linked to it. Nursing and operational staff as well as patients who had been at the centre at the same time as the confirmed cases have been quarantined. The patients will go to another dialysis centre, designated by the Health Ministry, to receive treatment during their quarantine period, said the National Kidney Foundation (NKF). In a statement on Tuesday, NKF said three of its patients had tested positive for Covid-19 and are hospitalised. All are in a stable condition and are not in the intensive care unit. NKF added that deep cleaning and disinfection of the dialysis centre was done on Saturday. It has activated and deployed its Covid-19 Emergency Response Team to the affected dialysis centre to ensure continuity of care and minimise disruption. NKF said it was working closely with the Health Ministry to monitor the situation and ensure that the necessary safety and precautionary measures are taken to curb further transmission. "Dialysis patients need to continue with their dialysis treatment three times a week regardless of the circumstances," it said. "NKF will continue to monitor the situation 24/7 and calibrate our measures accordingly to ensure that our patients can continue to receive safe and uninterrupted dialysis treatment, which is of topmost priority." More on this topic Related Story Recovered individuals still need pre-event Covid-19 test exemption from a clinic to dine in: MOH Related Story S'pore residents can walk in for Covid-19 jabs at 37 centres from Aug 10 without appointment Related Stories: Related Story Dine-in to resume, more can work from office: All about S'pore's rules easing from Aug 10 Related Story Relief and caution as Malaysia eases Covid-19 rules for the vaccinated Related Story China reports more Covid-19 cases while some cities kick off new tests Related Story Australia expands Covid-19 lockdown over concern of spread to countryside Related Story Covid-19 fight: Is the future just a spike protein stamping on a human face, forever? Related Story The Delta dilemma: How Covid-19 variant is disrupting the world's reopening plans Related Story Unvaccinated people twice as likely to be reinfected with Covid-19, study shows Related Story Covid-19: Mixed messaging hampering US fight against Delta variant Related Story Japan debates hospitalising only the sickest Covid-19 patients as cases hit record Related Story Flawed scientific papers fuelling Covid-19 misinformation

28 7 月, 2021

VFS Global opens new UAE Attestation Centres in the Philippines

MANILA, Jul 28, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Customers in the Philippines can directly visit the UAE Attestation Centres located in Makati City, Malate in Manila and Cebu without any prior appointment for document attestation services which commenced on 1 July 2021. Services at the Centre include personal documents (Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate etc.), educational documents (School Certificate, Diploma etc.), and commercial documents (Business Registrations, Invoices).Customers who are travelling to UAE or the Middle East can submit their documents in person for attestation by walk-in directly at our new centres that adhere to the stringent safety and physical distancing guidelines prescribed by the World Health Organisation and local authorities. The convenience of doorstep document collection and delivery with real-time tracking of key documents via courier will be made available soon for the residents in these three locations. The mode of payment is cash only at present. Please note that all documents submitted for attestation should already have an apostille by DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs), UAE.Commenting on the inauguration of the new UAE Attestation Centres, Mr Jiten Vyas, Regional Group COO, VFS Global, "We are excited to extend our long-standing partnership with the Government of the UAE to the next level through the launch of the new Attestation Centres in cooperation with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. By leveraging on our vast operations network and expertise in Attestation services globally, our newly opened UAE Attestation Centres across the Philippines will offer an enhanced experience for customers with a secure application process and with a range of Value Added Services like pick and drop, end-to-end support, courier, translation etc."Key advantages of the new UAE Attestation Centre include:- Secured end to end process legalisation process- Safety of documents shared for attestation and legalisation- On-time processing and return of important documentsImportant information for UAE attestation services customers in the Philippines:As the safety of our customers and employees is our priority, VFS Global has implemented strict health and safety measures in line with Government guidelines for physical distancing at the Centres. Customers must wear a face mask/face covering to enter the premises, and a temperature reading will be required on arrival. Customers exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, including fever (higher than 37.3 degrees Celsius), cough and difficulty in breathing, will not be allowed to proceed with their applications and be allowed to reschedule their appointments for another day.Customers can visit our website: http://www.vfsattestation.com/philippines/ or call our helpline number +639190615894 or email us infodvpcmnl@dubaivisa.net for more details.UAE Attestation Centre- Address in Makati City: VFS Global, Unit M01, Mezzanine Floor, Ecoplaza Building, 2305 Chino Roces Ave.Extension, Makati City, Metro Manila 1231, Philippines- Address in Malate: VFS Global, Ground Floor, DY International Building, San Marcelino corner Gen. Malvar St. Malate, Manila 1004, Philippines- Address in Cebu: VFS Global, 5th Floor Unit 503 Kepwealth Center, Samar Loop cor. Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City 6000, PhilippinesEmail id: infodvpcmnl@dubaivisa.netHelpline: +639190615894Website: http://www.vfsattestation.com/philippines/ Submission Timing: 0900 hrs - 1300 hrs (Monday to Friday, except holidays)*VFS Global will be responsible only for accepting applications for client missions. All applications submitted will continue to be assessed and processed by the respective client missions. Timelines for turnaround are as per the discretion of the authorities.About VFS GlobalVFS Global is the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. With 3523 Application Centres, operations in 143 countries across five continents and over 230 million applications processed (since inception in 2001) as on 30 June 2021, VFS Global is the trusted partner of 62 client governments. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport and consular services for its client governments, enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.VFS Global is majority owned by the global investment organisation EQT. The Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation holds a minority stake in VFS Global. EQT is a global investment organisation with offices in Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific and a 27-year track record of consistent investment performance across multiple geographies, sectors, and strategies. EQT AB Group is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange. EQT manages and advises a range of specialized investment funds and other investment vehicles that invest across the world with the mission to generate attractive returns and future-proof companies. EQT funds' investors do not influence portfolio companies' decision making or strategies. Nor do they have access to private and confidential business assets or client and customer data.Media ContactSukanya Chakrabortysukanyac@vfsglobal.comcommunications@vfsglobal.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

15 7 月, 2021

Toa Payoh hawker centre closed for deep cleaning after stall assistant who allegedly visited KTV tests positive

SINGAPORE - The hawker centre at Block 75 Toa Payoh Lorong 5 underwent deep cleaning on Thursday (July 15) morning after a stall assistant who allegedly visited a KTV lounge over the weekend tested positive for Covid-19. A crew of six people wearing personal protective equipment spent about an hour spraying disinfectant and wiping down the tables and chairs at the 36-stall hawker centre managed by NTUC Foodfare. Notices put up around the hawker centre said it would be closed until further notice, with deep cleaning and disinfection to be carried out on Thursday and Friday. Stallholders told The Straits Times that they were notified about the positive case at about 3pm on Wednesday. They were given three hours to pack up and were told to quarantine themselves at home for 14 days. Swab testers visited the homes of some of the stallholders on Thursday morning to test them for Covid-19. Mr Tan Boon Chuan, 50, secretary of the hawker centre's stallholder association, runs a dessert stall there with his wife. "It was very sudden and the whole hawker centre was a mess. Everyone was anxiously packing up," he told ST in Mandarin. He said he had to throw away all of the ingredients he had made for the day and will likely have to dispose of the rest he had to leave behind at his stall. "We are just waiting to be tested," Mr Tan said, adding that most of the hawkers, including himself, are fully vaccinated. Madam Ang Goon Lay, a 56-year-old drinks stall owner at the hawker centre, tested negative after taking a antigen rapid test, said her daughter, Ms Lim Jia Hui. The 27-year-old said her mother, who is fully vaccinated, received a call from the Health Ministry and thought it was a scam at first. Her mother was not worried about contracting Covid-19, but is concerned about the loss of income as the hawker centre is expected to be closed until July 25, Ms Lim added. Mr Tan said he is hopeful that the hawker centre can reopen earlier as the positive Covid-19 case was absent from work this week. He said the stall assistant who tested positive had allegedly visited a KTV lounge on Sunday. The man, who is said to be an assistant at Fang Yuan Satay, did not turn up on Monday and went to see a doctor after feeling ill on Tuesday, Mr Tan added. "It should not affect our hawker centre because he didn't come into contact with the people here," the stallholder said. Asked about the hawker centre's closure, Mr Tan added: "We are not the only hawker centre to have a case, so we are mentally prepared that this could happen. We are outside and interact with so many customers, it is inevitable."

14 7 月, 2021

AmCham Hong Kong forms partnership with The Executive Centre

HONG KONG, Jul 14, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Executive Centre ("TEC"), the leading premium flexible workspace provider serving more than 35,000 members in 32 cities across the world's fastest-growing economies of Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, has formed a strategic partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong ("AmCham") to further support American and multinational corporations' (MNCs) presence in Hong Kong. After 25 years at its previous location, AmCham has taken a private office at TEC's Two Chinachem Central Centre before relocating permanently to its new headquarters next year. During the tenure, TEC will offer exclusive discounts on products and services to all AmCham Members.AmCham, one of the most influential international business organisations in Asia-Pacific, has partnered with TEC to facilitate networking between two elite communities of professionals from diversified industries. TEC and AmCham have co-hosted various high-calibre networking events in previous years, setting a solid foundation for the creation of an even more dynamic platform to build relationships, share information, and grow business."We are energized about our move to The Executive Centre. It is a strategic decision with our members being our top priority in creating not just an office space but an environment for community gathering, collaboration and a flexible working model. It is precisely community, collaboration and flexibility that defines our Chamber working goals in the new post-COVID normal," said Tara Joseph, President of the American Chamber of Commerce."We are thrilled to provide premium workspace solutions for AmCham, a long term partner of ours. Our two businesses share a common goal of furthering business growth in Hong Kong," said TEC's Regional Managing Director of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, Nadia Zhu. "Despite the challenges brought by COVID-19, we continue to see strong demand coming from MNCs and domestic corporates in Hong Kong who are looking for premium Grade A office space, but want more flexibility at the current time as they try to manage costs."The majority of TEC's Hong Kong client base are MNCs with a high credit standing including US and Global blue-chip companies. About The Executive CentreThe Executive Centre (TEC) opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1994 and today boasts over 150+ centres in 32 cities and 14 markets. It is the third largest serviced office business in Asia with annual turnover in excess of US$237 million.The Executive Centre caters to ambitious professionals and industry leaders looking for more than just an office space - they are looking for a place for their organization to thrive. TEC has cultivated an environment designed for success with a global network spanning Greater China, Southeast Asia, North Asia, India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Australia, with sights to go further and grow faster. Each Executive Centre offers a prestigious address with the advanced infrastructure to pre-empt, meet, and exceed the needs of its Members. Walking with Members through every milestone and achievement, The Executive Centre empowers ambitious professionals and organizations to succeed.Privately owned and headquartered in Hong Kong, TEC provides first class Private and Shared Workspaces, Business Concierge Services, and Meeting & Conference facilities to suit any business' needs.For more information please visit www.executivecentre.comAbout The American Chamber of Commerce in Hong KongWith over 1,400 members, the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong (AmCham) is one of the largest American Chambers outside the United States, the largest international chamber in Hong Kong, and one of the most dynamic and influential international business organizations in the Asia-Pacific region. AmCham's mission is to foster commerce among the United States, Hong Kong, and Mainland China; and to enhance Hong Kong's stature as an international business center. AmCham members are united in the belief that an economic system based upon free trade, open markets and private enterprise creates employment, prosperity and stability. The chamber subscribes to a set of universal business principles in support of our commitment to ethical and responsible business practices.For more information please visit https://www.amcham.org.hk Press EnquiriesFinsbury Glover HeringSheena Shah / Crystal ChowSheena.Shah@fgh.com / +852 3166 9855Crystal.Chow@fgh.com / +852 3166 9838 Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

3 7 月, 2021

Tennis: Korda too good for Britain’s Evans as he reaches Wimbledon last 16

LONDON (REUTERS) - Wimbledon main draw debutant Sebastian Korda reached the last 16 on Friday (July 2) with an impressive 6-3 3-6 6-3 6-4 victory over British number one Dan Evans on Centre Court. A few days after his older sister Nelly won the women's PGA Championship to become the world's top-ranked golfer, Korda maintained a fine family tradition with a superb display. Striking the ball crisply from the baseline and serving powerfully, Korda kept Evans under control to keep the home fans quiet and claim a relatively comfortable victory. The world number 50 is coached by his father Petr Korda, a former world number two and 1998 Australian Open champion, and also has former Wimbledon champion Andre Agassi in his team. Both would have been proud of the way he dispatched Evans after a blip in the second set and then coming back from a break down in the fourth to seize control. He was the dominant player throughout and struck 51 winners on his way to his second Grand Slam fourth round, having made his breakthrough by doing the same at the 2020 French Open. For Korda it was his first time on Centre Court and he said it was an occasion he will never forget. "It was the first time I walked down the stairs, it was incredible," he told reporters. "It was pretty crazy. I almost brought out my phone just to start recording. "All the years that I've watched tennis, they always show how the players are walking through all the rooms. I just thought to myself, this is nuts. "What's about to happen is going to be something I'm going to remember for the rest of my life." If he is to return to Centre Court this year he will have to next get past big-hitting Russian Karen Khachanov, the 25th seed, on Monday. Evans was one of three British men to reach the third round along with Andy Murray and Cameron Norrie. It was the first time since 1999 that had happened. With Murray losing later on, however, hopes now rest on Norrie upsetting eight-time champion Roger Federer on Saturday. More on this topic Related Story Tennis: Battling Murray in earliest Wimbledon exit since 2005 Related Story Tennis: Djokovic into Wimbledon last 16 after rocky third set

30 6 月, 2021

Tennis: Wimbledon ends in tears for injured Serena

LONDON (REUTERS) - Tennis great Serena Williams limped out of Wimbledon in tears on Tuesday (June 29) after her latest bid for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles crown ended in injury. The American sixth seed and seven-time Wimbledon winner was clearly in pain on a slippery Centre Court and sought treatment while 3-2 up in her first round match against unseeded Belarussian Aliaksandra Sasnovich. Williams returned after a lengthy break but the distress was evident. She grimaced and wiped away tears before preparing to serve at 3-3 after Sasnovich had pulled back from 3-1 down. The 39-year-old, who had started the match with strapping on her right thigh, then let out a shriek and sank kneeling to the grass sobbing, before being helped off the court with an apparent ankle injury. “Brutal for @serenawilliams but centre court is extremely slippy out there. Not easy to move out there,” Britain’s Andy Murray said on Twitter. Sasnovich, who practised her serve while Williams was getting treatment, commiserated with an opponent who had never gone out in the first round at Wimbledon in her previous 19 visits. “I’m so sad for Serena, she’s a great champion,” said the world number 100. “It happens sometimes.” Eight-times men’s singles champion Roger Federer expressed shock at Williams’ departure and voiced concern about the surface, with the roof closed on Centre Court on a rainy afternoon. Brutal for @serenawilliams but centre court is extremely slippy out there. Not easy to move out there.— Andy Murray (@andy_murray) June 29, 2021 His first-round opponent Adrian Mannarino of France also retired with a knee injury after a slip in the match immediately before Williams’. “I do feel it feels a tad more slippery maybe under the roof. I don’t know if it’s just a gut feeling. You do have to move very, very carefully out there. If you push too hard in the wrong moments, you do go down,” Federer said. “I feel for a lot of players, it’s super key to get through those first two rounds because the grass is more slippery, it is more soft. As the tournament progresses, usually it gets harder and easier to move on.” Williams has been a Wimbledon finalist in her last four appearances but her bid to equal Margaret Court’s record 24 Grand Slam singles titles has stalled since her last in Australia in 2017. With the absence this year of world number two Naomi Osaka and third-ranked Simona Halep, hopes were rising of another year to remember. “It was hard for me to watch that,” said compatriot Coco Gauff. “She’s the reason why I started to play tennis. It’s hard to watch any player get injured, but especially her.” More on this topic Related Story Tennis: Barty goes through after wobble in emotional first round Wimbledon clash Related Story Tennis: Kerber overcomes slow start to down Wimbledon debutant Stojanovic