Industry News

Johnnie Walker has launched its most ambitious blending platform yet, the Johnnie Walker Vault, in Singapore. This exclusive initiative offers whisky enthusiasts access to the brand’s rarest blends and luxury experiences. The launch event, held at Diageo Singapore’s Private Client Suite, featured a Blending Artistry Atelier led by Master Blender Dr. Emma Walker and Global Brand Ambassador Ewan Gunn.

Guests at the atelier experienced a personalised whisky blending journey, crafting bespoke blends using some of Diageo’s rarest single malts. The session included a tasting of Johnnie Walker’s luxury portfolio, featuring the iconic Johnnie Walker Blue Label and the ultra-rare Johnnie Walker Aged 52 Years. A highlight was a bespoke blend created by Dr. Walker for Singapore fashion icon Yoyo Cao, inspired by Japanese culture and autumn.

The Johnnie Walker Vault aims to showcase the pinnacle of the brand’s blending artistry, emphasising craftsmanship and luxury. Later this year, the Vault plans to collaborate with a visionary couture fashion artist for a limited-edition collection, with details to be announced in Spring 2025. This initiative marks a significant step in offering whisky connoisseurs unique and immersive experiences, reinforcing Johnnie Walker’s position as a leader in the luxury whisky market.
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RHB Singapore has announced its partnership with Mediacorp as the main bank sponsor for the highly anticipated television series, “Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story”. This collaboration marks RHB’s first venture into television sponsorship, aligning with its commitment to support local productions that celebrate Singapore’s rich Peranakan heritage.

Luke Diep, RHB’s Head of Brand Marketing & Communications, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting the synergy between the bank’s values and the show’s cultural themes. “As a bank with a strong legacy and a progressive vision, we are honoured to support a local production that embodies culture, tradition, and kinship,” Diep stated.

RHB’s dedication to preserving heritage is evident in its Orchard Premier Centre, a Peranakan-themed branch, and its other branches across Singapore, which feature Peranakan-inspired décor. This approach reflects the bank’s aim to foster deeper community connections beyond traditional banking.

Coreen Kwan, Head of Retail Banking at RHB, highlighted the partnership’s potential to engage customers through storytelling and shared experiences. “This partnership allows us to engage more customers through shared experiences and storytelling, strengthen our brand presence, and appeal to individuals considering to embark on their banking journey with us,” Kwan said.

“Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story” airs weekdays at 9pm on Channel 8, with streaming available on mewatch Prime and Netflix. RHB invites viewers to join this journey, blending tradition with progress whilst staying true to its heritage.

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FS-ISAC has released a new report titled “Charting the Course of AI: Practical Considerations for Financial Services Leaders,” offering a strategic roadmap for financial firms in Singapore and globally to adopt generative AI (GenAI) responsibly. The guidance arrives as the sector grapples with AI readiness challenges, with only 13% of Singaporean organisations fully prepared for AI adoption, according to the Cisco AI Readiness Index.

The report, developed by FS-ISAC’s AI Risk Working Group, addresses the complexities of implementing GenAI safely and effectively. It highlights significant hurdles such as infrastructure needs, regulatory changes, copyright issues, and talent shortages. Mike Silverman, FS-ISAC’s Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, stated, “AI has the ability to completely transform how we do business, but the impact of that transformation largely remains to be seen.”

Key takeaways from the whitepaper include eight critical questions designed to help organisations prepare for future AI uses, focusing on governance, training, data diversity, and risk management. Additionally, the paper outlines realistic short-, medium-, and long-term risk scenarios to aid leaders in proactive risk management.

The guidance is timely, as 91% of Singapore organisations have experienced identity-related breaches, partly due to increased use of multi-cloud and AI technologies. By leveraging the insights provided, firms can better integrate AI whilst managing associated risks, ultimately supporting the resilience of the financial sector and safeguarding trust in the global financial system.
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Gynaecomastia, a condition characterised by the development of excess male breast tissue, affects men across all ethnic groups in Singapore, according to a recent study by Amaris B. Clinic. Conducted by Ivan Puah, Medical Director of the clinic, the study analysed 602 patients treated for gynaecomastia between January 2018 and December 2024, debunking the myth that the condition is more prevalent in certain racial groups.

Ivan Puah, an MOH-accredited liposuction doctor, stated, “There is a common belief in Singapore that gynaecomastia is more prevalent in certain ethnic groups, but my experience tells a different truth. I’ve treated patients from all racial backgrounds, proving that this condition isn’t selective — it can happen to any man, regardless of ethnicity.”

The study’s findings highlight the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment. Gynaecomastia can manifest as true gynaecomastia, involving excess glandular tissue, or as mixed gynaecomastia, a combination of glandular and fatty tissue. Ivan Puah’s 360° Glandular Tissue Dissection (360° GTD) technique offers a less invasive surgical option, effectively eliminating glandular tissue with minimal downtime and well-concealed scarring.

The study also revealed the demographics of patients seeking treatment: 42.6% were Chinese, 19.7% Indian, 12% Caucasian, and 8.9% Malay. The rising number of Chinese patients reflects growing awareness rather than higher susceptibility. Factors such as hormonal imbalances, genetics, obesity, and certain medications contribute to the condition.

Ivan Puah emphasised the psychological impact of gynaecomastia, noting that many men suffer in silence due to stigma and misinformation. He urged those affected to seek expert help, stating, “Our study proves no ethnicity is immune, and timely care is critical. Seeking expert help is the first step towards a better well-being and reclaiming your confidence.”
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The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Port of Rotterdam have signed a Cooperation Agreement to bolster their collaboration on the Rotterdam-Singapore Green and Digital Shipping Corridor. This initiative, which began in 2022, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from large container vessels by 20-30% by 2030, whilst enhancing digitalisation for efficient port operations.

Since its inception, the corridor has united 28 partners across the container shipping value chain to promote sustainable fuels and digital solutions. The focus is on bio- and e-variants of ammonia, methanol, and methane, with working groups established for each fuel type. Notable achievements include the first successful bunkering of mass-balanced liquefied bio-methane at the Port of Rotterdam, with a similar trial planned in Singapore in 2025.

On the digital front, the ports have trialled the exchange of port-to-port data to optimise vessel arrival planning. They have also developed ship-to-shore data exchange infrastructure to streamline port clearance processes. The first phase of testing global standards and digital solutions commenced in March 2025, with further enhancements expected later in the year.

Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration in advancing decarbonisation and digitalisation efforts. Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam, emphasised the corridor’s role in setting new industry standards and improving trade efficiency. Both leaders expressed commitment to continuing their work together to achieve these ambitious goals.
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The Institute of Technical Education (ITE) Singapore and Dell Technologies have joined forces to establish a Hybrid Cloud Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Centre, aiming to enhance digital skills and accelerate AI adoption. The centre, powered by Dell VxRail, supports up to 80 virtual machines and allows students to learn from any location, offering a flexible teaching environment.

The VDI Centre is designed to address the challenges faced by traditional classroom models, particularly highlighted during the pandemic. By eliminating the need for physical desktops, it provides students with access to advanced AI tools such as GenAI animation and 3D modelling, enhancing their learning experience. The centre also facilitates collaboration with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on AI-focused projects, bridging the gap between education and real-world applications.

As part of this initiative, ITE aims to deliver a Universal Omniverse Experience (UOX), equipping staff and students with essential digital skills through training, upskilling, and certification in areas like cloud computing and virtualisation. Andy Sim, vice president and managing director of Dell Technologies Singapore, stated, “Our collaboration with ITE aims to nurture AI-savvy talent and enhance tech curricula, supporting enterprises and communities in building an AI-ready workforce.”

The partnership between ITE and Dell is underpinned by three pillars: training, skilling, and certifying. Dell will provide expertise in IT infrastructure and hybrid cloud, whilst collaborating with ITE to develop skill-building programmes. Additionally, short courses focused on technical certification will be offered to SMEs, with participants receiving a Certificate of Competency from ITE upon completion. This collaboration supports lifelong learning and strengthens ties with the technology sector, preparing an AI-ready workforce for the future.
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The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has unveiled the Maritime Testbed of Shipboard Operational Technology (MariOT) system, a pioneering industrial-grade platform designed to enhance cybersecurity training and testing for maritime technologies. Developed in collaboration with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and industry partners, MariOT is set to provide high-fidelity simulations of key maritime systems, including navigation and propulsion, to prepare professionals for real-world cyber threats.

MariOT’s launch marks a significant step in addressing the cybersecurity challenges faced by shipboard Operational Technology systems. By offering realistic training scenarios, the facility allows maritime personnel to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The system reduces reliance on physical shipboard infrastructure and fosters collaboration among engineers, IT specialists, and maritime professionals to refine best practices and accelerate the adoption of cybersecurity protocols.

MPA plans to integrate MariOT into academic curricula through partnerships with Institutes of Higher Learning, enhancing student learning outcomes with state-of-the-art simulations and structured internships. Over the next three years, more than 300 students and professionals are expected to benefit from the facility.

The inaugural MariOT cybersecurity exercise, scheduled for 27 to 28 March 2025, will simulate cyber threats targeting Operational Technology systems onboard vessels. Supported by experts from SUTD’s iTrust and international partners, the exercise will test participants’ ability to detect and respond to cyber intrusions. David Foo, Assistant Chief Executive of MPA, emphasised MariOT’s role in upskilling the workforce and developing practical cyber solutions.
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Singapore has introduced Technical Reference (TR) 136, a new standard for electric harbour craft (e-HC) charging infrastructure, developed by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) through the Singapore Standards Council. This initiative is part of Singapore’s broader strategy to decarbonise its maritime sector, aligning with the nation’s 2050 net zero target.

The TR 136 outlines safety and technical requirements for e-HC charging and battery swap systems, ensuring protection against electrical and mechanical hazards. It incorporates international standards like the Combined Charging System and aligns with local codes, promoting interoperability and ease of adoption by service providers.

According to Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, “TR 136 is a critical step towards developing a safe, robust, and interoperable charging infrastructure for electric harbour craft in Singapore.” The standard is expected to instil confidence among industry players and create new business opportunities in charging systems and battery technologies.

The Working Group on Electric Harbour Crafts Charging System, comprising government and industry stakeholders, developed the TR 136. Er. Lim Say Leong, Co-Convenor of the group, emphasised the importance of consulting widely with marine industry players to ensure the standard’s robustness and applicability.

A seminar on 28 March 2025, during Singapore Maritime Week, will further discuss the TR 136. Additionally, financing options for e-HCs are available under the Enterprise Financing Scheme-Green, with local banks expressing interest in supporting e-HC operators.

The introduction of TR 136 marks a significant milestone in Singapore’s efforts to electrify its maritime sector, paving the way for a sustainable future.
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Singapore and India have taken a significant step towards enhancing maritime innovation by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) to cooperate on digitalisation and decarbonisation within the sector. The agreement was signed by Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, and R. Lakshmanan, Joint Secretary of India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, with senior officials from both countries witnessing the event.

The LOI outlines plans for both nations to collaborate on projects that focus on maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation. This includes identifying key stakeholders who can contribute to these efforts and working towards formalising their partnership through a memorandum of understanding on a Singapore-India Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC).

India, known for its prowess in information technology, has the potential to become a major producer and exporter of green marine fuels. Meanwhile, Singapore, a key transshipment and bunkering hub, boasts a dynamic research and innovation ecosystem. The proposed GDSC aims to leverage these strengths, enhancing collaboration between the two countries and accelerating the development and adoption of zero or near-zero greenhouse gas emission technologies and digital solutions.

The establishment of the Singapore-India GDSC is expected to significantly contribute to the maritime sector’s sustainability and efficiency, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and embrace digital transformation.
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Singapore’s core inflation rate dropped to 0.6% year-on-year in February 2025, down from 0.8% in January, according to UOB Global Economics and Markets Research. This figure fell short of both Bloomberg’s median estimate of 0.7% and UOB’s own forecast of 0.8%. The decline was widespread, with categories such as miscellaneous goods and services, food, and recreation, sport and culture all showing lower year-on-year readings.

The persistent weakness in core inflation momentum suggests that the full-year average may fall below the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s (MAS) forecast range of 1.0-2.0%. The share of items in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket with inflation above 2% decreased to 31.2% in February, indicating a continued easing of price pressures.

UOB’s report highlights that Singapore’s labour market remains stable, although firms are becoming more cautious in hiring, particularly in trade-related sectors, due to escalating trade tensions and tariffs. The government’s upskilling initiatives are expected to enhance labour productivity, helping to mitigate cost pressures.

The MAS is likely to consider further monetary policy easing in its April 2025 Monetary Policy Statement (MPS). UOB anticipates a slight reduction in the Singapore dollar nominal effective exchange rate (S$NEER) policy band slope to 0.5% per annum from 1.0%. This adjustment would align with the MAS’s historical pattern of easing during periods of declining core inflation forecasts.

In conclusion, Singapore’s softening inflation and external uncertainties may prompt the MAS to adjust its monetary policy stance, potentially easing further to support economic stability.
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