Industry News

Tencent Cloud, the cloud division of global tech giant Tencent, has partnered with Singapore-based TrueWatch to launch Indonesia’s first multi-cloud Software as a Service (SaaS) observability platform. Announced at the inaugural Tencent Cloud Day event in Jakarta on 10 March 2025, this collaboration seeks to advance cloud observability solutions across Southeast Asia by leveraging Tencent Cloud’s local infrastructure.

The TrueWatch platform addresses challenges in multi-cloud environments, such as siloed data and operational inefficiencies, by consolidating monitoring tools into a single interface. This partnership allows TrueWatch to utilise Tencent Cloud’s Indonesia Availability Zone, ensuring low-latency access and robust security for local enterprises. The platform offers real-time monitoring, analytics, and cloud-native observability tools, providing businesses with enhanced performance and scalability.

Key benefits of the partnership include a 99.99% uptime service level agreement (SLA) for enterprise customers, a 50% reduction in infrastructure setup and deployment time, and compliance with local data protection regulations. Faye Gong, Business Development Director for Southeast Asia and South Asia at Tencent Cloud, stated, “Tencent Cloud’s partnership with TrueWatch truly highlights our continuous commitment to driving digital innovation in Indonesia.”

Mike Loong, Executive Director of TrueWatch, added, “This collaboration is a game-changer for enterprises struggling with fragmented cloud environments. Together, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of observability, helping businesses from any industry operate with precision.”

As the partnership unfolds, it is expected to empower Indonesian businesses to optimise their cloud ecosystems with greater efficiency and reliability, aligning with the country’s data sovereignty needs.
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Joey Tang has been appointed as the Head of Investment Solutions Group Hong Kong at Bank of Singapore, effective immediately. Based in Hong Kong, Tang will report to Vivienne Chia, Global Head of Investment Solutions Group, and locally to Rickie Chan, Head of Private Banking, Greater China, and Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Branch. Tang’s role will involve spearheading the bank’s product and solutions strategy across capital markets, alternative investments, managed solutions, and lending advisory, particularly focusing on clients in the Greater China region.

Tang brings nearly 30 years of experience in investment and private banking, having previously led the Funds, Alternatives, and Solutions team at Bank of China (Hong Kong) Private Banking. His extensive background includes a tenure at Citigroup Global Markets, where he was responsible for the Greater China region and led a multi-asset structured investment solutions team.

Vivienne Chia commented on Tang’s appointment, stating, “We have seen an increase in demand for sophisticated product offerings and financial solutions among our clients. We are pleased to have Joey on board to lead these efforts in Hong Kong, focused on our clients in the Greater China region.”

This appointment is part of Bank of Singapore’s strategic expansion of its advisory and product solutions team globally, following recent hires at its Dubai International Financial Centre branch. Tang’s leadership is expected to enhance the bank’s ability to provide personalised wealth management solutions, especially during times of macroeconomic uncertainty.
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A recent survey by Alibaba Cloud reveals that a significant 84% of Singaporean businesses are captivated by the potential of digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, to drive sustainable development. However, 85% of these businesses express concerns over the high energy consumption associated with these technologies, which could hinder their widespread adoption.

The survey, which included over 1,300 businesses across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, highlights that Singapore ranks second in interest in digital technologies for sustainability, trailing the Philippines (91%) but ahead of Indonesia and Thailand (both at 81%). Within Singapore, AI and machine learning are deemed the most crucial technologies for advancing corporate sustainability by 41% of businesses, followed by cloud computing at 37%, and collaboration and communication tools at 34%.

Despite this interest, 80% of Singaporean executives feel their organisations are lagging in adopting cloud computing and AI to meet sustainability goals. Furthermore, 83% acknowledge a significant gap in understanding how digital technology can aid in achieving these objectives, a figure notably higher than the Asia average of 63%.

These findings underscore the dual challenge faced by Singaporean businesses: the allure of digital technologies for sustainability and the pressing need to address energy consumption concerns to realise their full potential. As companies navigate these complexities, the insights from Alibaba Cloud’s survey could serve as a catalyst for more informed decision-making in the pursuit of sustainable development.
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The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) will conduct live-firing and military exercises across various locations from 10 to 17 March 2025. These activities will take place on the islands of Pulau Sudong, Pulau Senang, and Pulau Pawai, as well as in the Pasir Laba SAFTI Live-Firing Area. The SAF has assured that all necessary safety and control measures will be in place, although loud noises are expected.

The public is urged to steer clear of these islands and their surrounding waters, as well as the prohibited waters off Changi Naval Base and Tuas Naval Base. Sea vessels navigating the Western Johor Straits are instructed to remain within the 75-metre Navigable Sea Lane to avoid the live-firing boundary, where live ammunition and flares will be used.

In addition to the live-firing exercises, military drills will be conducted in several areas, including Seletar, Marsiling, Jalan Bahar, Neo Tiew, Lim Chu Kang, and others. These exercises will involve the use of blanks and thunderflashes.

The SAF has emphasised that trespassing into restricted areas is an offence punishable by law, and the public is advised to comply with all safety advisories to ensure their safety and the smooth conduct of the exercises.
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The National Dental Centre Singapore (NDCS) has introduced a new oral health screening tool on the SingHealth Health Buddy app, enabling users to self-assess their risk of severe gum disease and oral frailty. This initiative, launched on 15 March 2025, aligns with the Healthier SG initiative’s focus on preventive health, encouraging individuals to take charge of their oral health.

Recent studies indicate that 90% of adult Singaporeans suffer from some form of gum disease, highlighting a significant public health concern. Additionally, 68.9% of the population are unaware of the preventive benefits of regular dental check-ups. This lack of awareness underscores the need for improved public education on oral hygiene and routine dental visits.

The new tool comprises two components: the Simplified Nomogram and the Oral Frailty Index-8 (OFI-8). These tools guide users through a series of questions to evaluate their oral health risks and recommend whether professional dental care is necessary. Users can track their dental health progress and access educational resources through the app.

CI A/Prof Lui Jeen Nee, Deputy CEO of Clinical & Regional Health at NDCS, stated, “We hope to bring dental awareness to Singaporeans directly with this tool and make it easy and convenient for everyone in the community to check for their risk of gum disease and oral frailty status.”

The tool’s launch coincides with the World Oral Health Day forum, themed “Healthy Teeth, Healthy You,” featuring talks by NDCS dentists on oral health conditions and care strategies. The Health Buddy app is available for download on both the App Store and Google Play Store.
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HSBC Singapore has launched a new entertainment and lifestyle platform exclusively for HSBC Premier Mastercard cardholders, providing access to premium entertainment experiences across Southeast Asia and the UK. This initiative is part of HSBC’s ongoing enhancement of its Premier offering, which began last September, aiming to cater to the international lifestyle needs of affluent customers.

The platform’s launch coincides with a 51% increase in spending on live events and entertainment among Singapore’s ultra-affluent cardholders from 2023 to 2024, according to Mastercard data. Through a strategic partnership with Live Nation, cardholders will enjoy benefits such as presale access to concerts, VIP experiences, and curated entertainment packages via priceless.com/HSBCSG.

Notable upcoming events include presale access to Lady Gaga’s concert in Singapore in May 2025 and Russell Peters’ Relax World Tour on 11 April 2025, which will feature VIP experiences and exclusive access. Additionally, the platform will offer tickets to BABYMONSTER’s first-ever Singapore concert.

Ashmita Acharya, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, Singapore, stated, “We are committed to delivering delightful experiences for our customers that go beyond traditional banking services.” Julie Nestor, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Asia Pacific, Mastercard, added, “Mastercard is delighted to partner with HSBC Singapore to offer cardholders exclusive access to incredible entertainment, music experiences, and benefits.”

The platform is now live, promising to enhance the lifestyle experiences of HSBC Premier Mastercard holders by offering unique entertainment opportunities.
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Singaporean filmmaker Jack Neo has been named the official brand ambassador for Watch Exchange Singapore, a move that highlights the company’s dedication to trust and authenticity in the pre-owned luxury watch market. Neo, known for his storytelling prowess and integrity, will help strengthen connections with luxury watch enthusiasts, leveraging his reputation beyond the entertainment industry.

Neo’s collaboration with Watch Exchange began with the co-sponsorship of his latest film, “I Want To Be Boss,” which premiered on 24 January 2025. The film features a subplot about AI-generated scams, a theme that resonates with the challenges faced by first-time luxury watch buyers in distinguishing genuine timepieces from counterfeits.

Watch Exchange’s founder expressed honour in welcoming Neo, stating, “His values of authenticity and integrity align perfectly with our mission to provide a trusted place for buying, selling, consigning, and trading brand new and pre-owned luxury watches.”

The pre-owned luxury watch market has seen rapid growth, attracting both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers who may be more vulnerable to fraud. Watch Exchange, fully licenced by the Singapore Police Force and regulated by the Ministry of Law, follows strict authentication procedures to ensure all watches are genuine and legally sourced.

Collectors and enthusiasts can explore a curated selection of pre-owned luxury watches at Watch Exchange’s shop in Far East Plaza or online, ensuring a seamless and secure experience. This partnership aims to empower consumers with knowledge, helping them make informed decisions when investing in timepieces.
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Meritus, an AI-powered education solutions company, has unveiled a significant partnership with a multinational corporation to deliver AI professional training to over 72,000 teachers across Asia. This ambitious initiative aims to transform classrooms by equipping educators with advanced AI knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to prepare students for an AI-driven future. The programme will be implemented in Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, bridging the gap between traditional education and the demands of the AI era.

The initiative is designed to create a new generation of AI-ready educators through comprehensive AI training, covering machine learning, prompt engineering, generative AI, and big data applications. It also focuses on AI-powered teaching methods, helping educators integrate AI tools seamlessly into their classrooms. The curriculum is localised to address the unique educational challenges of each country, with special modules dedicated to special needs education and adaptive AI learning.

Ramana Prasad, Founder and Chairman of Meritus, highlighted the programme’s significance: “Education is the foundation of societal progress. By focusing on practical, hands-on AI education, we are setting a global benchmark for teacher training and student readiness.” Aditi Prasad, COO of Meritus AI, added, “This initiative is not just about teaching technology; it’s about empowering educators to unlock the potential of AI and inspire their students to thrive in a digital world.”

The programme will also provide schools with AI-powered tools, robotics kits, and interactive learning platforms, ensuring a sustainable and scalable model for long-term institutional adoption of AI education. Teachers will receive globally recognised AI teaching certifications, enhancing their professional growth and supporting schools in setting up AI labs and coding clubs. This initiative marks a paradigm shift in preparing educators for their crucial role in shaping the future.
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Lentor Central Residences, a joint venture by Hong Leong Holdings Limited, GuocoLand, and CSC Land Group Singapore, has sold 93% of its 477 units as of 5pm on 9 March 2025. The development, located in the emerging precinct of Lentor, attracted significant interest during its two-week preview, with prices ranging from $1,982 (S$1,982) to $2,573 (S$2,573) per square foot (psf).

The project features a variety of unit types, with three-bedroom and four-bedroom units proving particularly popular. Approximately 90% of buyers are Singaporeans, whilst the remaining 10% are Permanent Residents and foreigners. Betsy Chng, Head of Sales and Marketing at Hong Leong Holdings, noted the strong demand, stating, “The strong take-up reflects sustained interest from homebuyers who recognise Lentor as an emerging precinct.”

Lentor Central Residences offers competitively priced units starting from $975,000 (S$975,000) for a one-bedroom unit. The development’s appeal is further enhanced by its proximity to Lentor MRT Station, providing convenient access to the Central Business District and Johor Bahru. The 99-year leasehold development, set within Lentor Hills Estate, blends modern conveniences with lush greenery, offering a balance of nature and city living.

Residents will benefit from a range of amenities, including a 50-metre Infinity Edge pool, private lounges, and family-friendly facilities. The project is expected to obtain its Temporary Occupation Permit in Q4 2028.
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The latest launch in Singapore’s Lentor Hills estate, Lentor Central Residences, has seen a remarkable sales performance, with 93% of its 477 units sold at an average price of S$2,200 per square foot (psf). This follows the successful launches of Parktown Residence and ELTA in February, indicating a continued robust demand for mass market private homes.

Lentor Central Residences is the sixth project in the Lentor Hills area, and its success adds to the impressive sales record of over 2,700 units transacted since September 2022. The development’s strategic location near Lentor MRT station and the Lentor Modern integrated development, along with competitive pricing, have been key factors in attracting buyers. Notably, all three-bedroom units were fully sold by Saturday night, suggesting many buyers are purchasing for personal residence.

Ismail Gafoor, CEO of PropNex, commented on the development’s appeal, stating, “We think Lentor Central Residences did well owing to its right pricing, convenient location near to the Lentor MRT station and commercial offerings at the Lentor Modern integrated development, as well as the tight unsold stock from existing projects in area.”

The average price of S$2,200 psf is considered competitive for an Outside Central Region (OCR) project, especially when compared to recent launches like Chuan Park at S$2,579 psf. This pricing strategy has positioned Lentor Central Residences as an attractive option for buyers seeking value in a well-located project within the Ang Mo Kio planning area.

With the Lentor area seeing 93% of its new private homes sold, the demand for mass market homes remains strong. This trend could potentially increase interest in the upcoming government land sales tender for a site in Lentor Gardens, set to close on 3 April. As the year progresses, the availability of new OCR projects may be limited, with potential launches in Upper Thomson Road and Canberra Crescent yet to be confirmed.
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