Industry News

Singapore-based Trident Digital Tech Holdings Ltd has signed a definitive public-private partnership with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to launch the DRCPass, a national digital identification system. This initiative, announced on 25 June 2025, aims to enhance digital identity verification across the nation, marking a significant step in the DRC’s e-government and digital identity efforts.

The DRCPass system will be rolled out in phases, accompanied by a public education campaign. Trident will serve as the exclusive provider of electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) services, leveraging Web 3.0 technology to streamline identity verification and enhance security. The system focuses on four key areas: SIM card registration, seamless access to e-government and business portals, digital payments enablement, and digital citizen identity.

Soon Huat Lim, Trident’s Founder, Chairman, and CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We commend the Republic’s leadership for embracing a digital future and look forward to supporting a nationwide rollout that others in Africa will surely emulate.” The DRC’s Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Affairs, Augustin Kibassa Maliba, highlighted the initiative’s significance, noting, “Today marks more than the signing of a partnership contract with Trident Digital Tech; it marks a defining chapter in the digital rebirth of our nation.”

With over 80 million mobile subscribers in the DRC, the secure eKYC services are expected to benefit a large portion of the population. As the DRCPass deployment progresses, it is poised to set a precedent for digital governance in Africa, potentially influencing other nations to adopt similar systems.
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Nera Telecommunications Ltd has announced a significant contract renewal valued at approximately S$30m with a leading service provider in Southeast Asia. The renewed agreement will see the company implement a smart services training programme and deploy personnel across over 100 sites, aiming to empower enterprises in rural areas to leverage digital commerce opportunities for economic growth.

The contract, which includes a managed services component lasting 60 months, will cover the daily operations, management, and maintenance of the deployed infrastructure. This also involves continuous support and network performance monitoring to ensure adherence to the customer’s Service Level Agreements (SLAs).

The initiative is expected to positively impact NeraTel’s financial performance for the current year, as it strengthens the company’s role in driving digital empowerment in the region. The comprehensive programme is designed to provide rural enterprises with the tools and knowledge needed to compete in the digital marketplace, potentially accelerating economic development in these communities.

The Board of Directors expressed their satisfaction with the contract renewal, highlighting its importance in expanding NeraTel’s footprint in Southeast Asia and reinforcing its commitment to digital transformation. The company’s strategic focus on managed services and smart solutions aligns with the growing demand for digital infrastructure and services in the region.
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A new Professional Services (PS) Centre has been launched in Shanghai by six leading Singaporean trade associations and professional membership bodies, marking a significant step in strengthening business ties between Singapore and China. The Alliance, comprising the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME), the Institute of Valuers and Appraisers, Singapore (IVAS), the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), the Tax Academy, and The Law Society of Singapore, aims to facilitate cross-border growth by bringing together over 50,000 professionals across more than 30 industries.

Strategically located in the Hongqiao Business District, the PS Centre will serve as a gateway for bilateral engagement, offering a platform for businesses to connect and collaborate. The initiative is part of Singapore’s “hunt in a pack” strategy, which encourages business associations to expand collectively, providing end-to-end support for legal, tax, valuation, accounting, and advisory needs.

The centre focuses on three main areas: international expansion, business enablement, and fostering a regional ecosystem. It aims to act as a hub for firms seeking to expand overseas, offering tailored guidance and services. The centre will also provide business opportunities for professional services firms and serve as a platform for knowledge sharing and strategic networking.

The launch of the PS Centre is seen as a pivotal step in expanding Singapore’s professional services ecosystem into China. It is supported by key stakeholders from both countries, including government agencies and trade associations. Future plans include establishing additional centres in Ho Chi Minh City, Nanjing, and Johor Bahru.
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ALR Technologies SG Ltd has announced a definitive manufacturing agreement with CGM Medical Technology Shen Zhen Ltd to produce the hardware for its GluCurve Pet Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). This agreement grants ALR Technologies exclusive global distribution rights for the CGM hardware in the animal health market. The first commercial shipment is expected in the third quarter of 2025.

The collaboration marks a significant step for ALR Technologies in expanding its footprint in the diabetes management sector. Sidney Chan, chairman and CEO of ALR Technologies, stated, “We have been collaborating with CGM Medical to develop the first large-scale manufacturing line for the CGM units that will be part of the ALRT GluCurve Pet CGM.” The company plans to enter a joint venture with CGM Medical to establish a fully automated manufacturing facility in Singapore, enhancing production efficiency and reducing costs.

This manufacturing agreement is part of ALR Technologies’ broader strategy to become a fully integrated player in the diabetes market. The company has been actively working on human health initiatives and has attracted interest from third parties for potential investments and commercial opportunities.

CGM Medical, known for its innovative medical device technology, focuses on developing accurate and affordable continuous glucose monitoring devices. The partnership with ALR Technologies is expected to leverage CGM Medical’s expertise in research and manufacturing to deliver effective solutions for diabetic care in pets.

The agreement is contingent upon the CGM hardware meeting ALR Technologies’ specifications, with future plans hinging on successful sample testing and production thresholds.
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The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Association of Banks in Singapore (ABS) have announced the incorporation of the Singapore Payments Network (SPaN), a new entity designed to oversee and govern the nation’s payment schemes. This initiative, unveiled on 25 June, seeks to consolidate the administration of Singapore’s payment systems, fostering innovation and collaboration amongst industry players.

SPaN, established as a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, will initially include MAS and the Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) as members. The entity aims to provide robust governance over national and cross-border payment schemes, promoting continuous innovation and collaboration. A board of directors will guide SPaN’s transition to operational readiness by the end of 2026, overseeing the onboarding of additional participants and the transition of existing schemes to SPaN.

Chia Der Jiun, Managing Director of MAS, emphasised the importance of SPaN in strengthening national payment infrastructures under a unified governance structure. “SPaN will set the foundation for the banking and payments industries to collaborate more effectively,” he stated. Helen Wong, ABS Chairman, added that the streamlined governance would enable financial institutions to respond swiftly to evolving digital payment needs.

The formation of SPaN marks a significant step in advancing Singapore’s payment ecosystem, ensuring it remains resilient and innovative. As the entity progresses towards operational readiness, it is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of payments in Singapore.
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CapitaLand Development (CLD) has announced the launch of LyndenWoods, the first residential development in Singapore Science Park in over four decades. The public preview is set for 28 June 2025, with prices starting at $1,600 (S$2,200) per square foot. This development aims to rejuvenate the area, offering future-ready living spaces in a premier innovation hub.

Located just a five-minute walk from Kent Ridge MRT station, LyndenWoods is adjacent to the newly completed Geneo life sciences and innovation cluster. The development promises a seamless blend of connectivity, convenience, and access to green spaces, making it an attractive option for families and professionals seeking a vibrant community lifestyle.

LyndenWoods comprises 343 units across two 24-storey towers, with completion targeted for 2029. The units range from 635 square feet for a two-bedroom flat to 1,647 square feet for a four-bedroom unit. Indicative pricing starts at $1.01 million (S$1.39 million) for a two-bedroom unit, $1.42 million (S$1.95 million) for a two-bedroom plus study, $1.71 million (S$2.35 million) for a three-bedroom, $2.10 million (S$2.88 million) for a three-bedroom plus guest, and $2.61 million (S$3.58 million) for a four-bedroom unit.

The sales gallery, located at 7 Science Park Drive, will be open daily from 10am to 7pm, with sales bookings commencing on 12 July 2025. This development is expected to attract those looking for a connected and dynamic living environment in a rapidly evolving neighbourhood.
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Four Points by Sheraton Singapore Riverview has launched the Ah Pui Teochew Porridge Buffet, a dining experience that pays homage to Singapore’s rich culinary heritage. Available at the hotel’s Four Points Eatery, the buffet was introduced on 26 May 2025 and is now extended for weekend dining. This initiative is a tribute to Singapore’s 60th birthday, inviting diners to savour the traditional flavours once enjoyed by river workers and local families.

The buffet, curated by Executive Chef Anthony, affectionately known as Ah Pui, offers a taste of Singapore’s past with dishes like sweet potato porridge and plain Teochew porridge. Chef Anthony, with over a decade of experience in Japanese and Singaporean cuisine, aims to rekindle the warmth of home-cooked meals that were a staple in Singapore’s early years. “My vision for the Ah Pui Teochew Porridge Buffet is simple: to rekindle the warmth of home-cooked fare that defined everyday life in Singapore’s early years,” he stated.

Guests can indulge in over 20 heritage dishes, including braised pork belly, Teochew-style steamed seabass fillet, and deep-fried fermented pork. Essential condiments such as salted egg, XO shrimp sauce, and Teochew bean paste enhance the experience. Traditional desserts like warm soybean with glutinous rice ball and Nyonya kueh complete the meal.

The buffet is available for lunch and dinner, with prices starting at $21.80 (£17.50) for adults and $15.80 (£12.70) for children on weekdays, and slightly higher on weekends and public holidays. A special 20% discount is offered for a limited time with the promo code APTP20. Advance reservations are required.

Ang Wee Ling, a 45-year-old Singaporean, has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for his role in illegal labour importation under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA). Ang pleaded guilty to three charges, with four additional charges considered during sentencing. He was also ordered to pay $62,800, representing his profits from the offences.

Between 2019 and 2022, Ang, along with two accomplices, Koh Soon Heng and Seah Yong Kiang, fraudulently applied for work passes through his companies, Toast Inn Two Pte Ltd and Tinn3 Pte Ltd. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) investigation revealed that these work passes were used to legalise the stay of foreigners in Singapore, despite no intention of employment with the companies. Ang received $136,000 in payments for facilitating these arrangements.

Koh and Seah were previously convicted on 29 May 2025 for making false declarations in work pass applications. Koh received a sentence of six months and two weeks, whilst Seah was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.

The MOM emphasised the importance of maintaining the integrity of Singapore’s work pass framework and warned of strict actions against offenders. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious employment activities to the MOM, ensuring confidentiality of the information provided.
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Tentsuru, the renowned tempura omakase restaurant at The St. Regis Singapore, is offering a limited-period menu titled ‘Memories of Goto’, crafted by Executive Chef Daiki Kawaguchi. Available from 1 July to 31 August 2025, this menu is a tribute to the chef’s upbringing and his father’s hometown in the Goto Islands, Japan. Each dish is a reflection of his childhood memories, brought to life through sophisticated techniques and premium ingredients.

The menu features highlights such as Grilled Suzuki with summer vegetables and a house-made spice sauce, Uni Tempura, and Miyazaki A5 Wagyu Tempura. A standout dish is the Goto Niku Udon, made using a thousand-year-old hand-twisting technique and camellia oil from the Goto Islands. The meal concludes with a dessert of Coffee Ice Cream, Coffee Jelly, and Cherry, paired with Tentsuru’s signature sake, Kura No Hana Junmai Daiginjo.

Chef Kawaguchi shares, “This menu is a deeply personal expression of my culinary journey — each dish evokes a memory, from the comforting warmth of grilled seabass to the quiet elegance of Goto Niku Udon.” The sake, brewed with Kuro no Hana rice, enhances the subtle flavours of the dishes.

Priced at $460++, with a 15% discount for MyMillennium members, the menu is available for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday. Reservations are recommended due to limited seating. Diners can also collect digital stamps via the MyMillennium app, unlocking rewards such as complimentary drinks and exclusive experiences.
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So Drama Entertainment and FLY Entertainment have announced a strategic partnership aimed at elevating media and entertainment content in Singapore. This collaboration, revealed on 25 June, combines the creative strengths of both companies to produce compelling, locally resonant content, starting with Kakee Originals. This series is available on So Drama’s newly rebranded app, Kakee.

The partnership is a commitment to homegrown storytelling, featuring talents from FLY’s esteemed roster, including Allan Wu, Carla Dunareanu, and Irene Ang. Audiences can enjoy series such as “See You There,” “Then & Now,” and the upcoming “The Office Survival Guide.”

Beyond casting, the partnership includes co-investment in content, brand collaborations, and talent development. FLY will provide top-tier talent production support and customised training for So Drama’s talent pool, enhancing the quality and reach of their productions.

Melvin Kuek, Executive Director at So Drama, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “The chemistry between So Drama and FLY promises fresh possibilities for talent, brands, and bold new content.” Irene Ang, Founder and CEO of FLY Entertainment, added, “We’re championing Singaporean stories and putting local talent exactly where it belongs—in the spotlight.”

FLY Entertainment has also partnered with digital casting platform IAmCasting to discover vibrant personalities for Kakee Originals. This move reflects FLY’s commitment to digital innovation and shaping the future of talent discovery.

The Kakee app, available for free download, offers users rewards for engaging with a wide range of content, including music streams and exclusive videos.
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