Regional News

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has unveiled its Draft Master Plan 2025, which aims to integrate living, working, and recreational spaces in Singapore whilst emphasising climate resilience and environmental stewardship. Leonard Tay, Head of Research at Knight Frank Singapore, highlighted the plan’s focus on adapting the built environment to withstand inclement weather and rising sea levels, using technology to future-proof the island.

A significant feature of the plan is the expansion of green spaces, with over 25 new parks and more than 50km of park connectors set to be developed between 2025 and 2030. The Kranji Nature Corridor will enhance ecological connectivity between key nature reserves and parks, offering new waterfront routes and recreational paths. This initiative aims to support biodiversity and bring nature closer to residential areas such as Marsiling and the upcoming Kranji housing estate. Additionally, Singapore plans to increase its network of therapeutic gardens to 30 by 2030, with new gardens at locations like Teachers’ Estate Park.

Looking ahead to 2030, the relocation of Paya Lebar Airbase is expected to be a transformative development. The move will free up 800 hectares of land for residential, commercial, and recreational use, potentially increasing land values and creating opportunities for collective sales. Although specific plot ratios have not been announced, the removal of height restrictions could lead to significant urban development in the East.

A recent report by Bitdefender has highlighted a concerning trend among Singapore’s cybersecurity professionals, with over 75% reporting pressure to remain silent about data breaches. This figure surpasses the global average, where just over 50% of professionals have faced similar demands. The report, based on a survey of 1,200 IT and security professionals worldwide, underscores the challenges faced by those in the cybersecurity field.

The report also reveals that Singapore experienced the third highest increase in AI-driven attacks, with 71% of respondents indicating their organisations had encountered such attacks in the past year. Additionally, 72% noted a rise in business email compromise attacks, and 58% reported that their operations were hindered by a lack of automation tools.

Despite these challenges, a significant 94% of Singaporean professionals expressed confidence in their organisations’ ability to manage risks as the attack surface expands. However, the skills gap and job burnout remain pressing issues, with 59% acknowledging a worsening situation, compared to the global average of 49%.

Andrei Florescu, president and general manager of Bitdefender Business Solutions Group, commented on the findings, stating, “The findings in this report make it clear that organisations must adopt modern security strategies that address a new reality where adversaries use AI to exploit vulnerabilities.”

The report’s findings suggest a need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and a more open dialogue about breaches to ensure organisations can effectively manage and mitigate risks in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
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Smart Communications has released its 2025 Customer Experience Benchmark research, revealing that more than half of Singaporean consumers are willing to use artificial intelligence (AI) for critical insurance advice. The global survey, which included 3,000 consumers, highlights the growing acceptance of AI in sectors like healthcare, financial services, and insurance, despite ongoing frustrations with poor omnichannel experiences.

The report found that 51% of Singaporeans would value AI for suggesting insurance plan changes. Additionally, 71% are inclined to use digital self-service options for tasks such as filing complaints or making policy changes. However, the survey also noted that 65% of consumers would abandon interactions with insurance companies if the data collection process is cumbersome.

Leigh Segall, CEO of Smart Communications, commented on the findings, stating, “Customers’ expectations are set by the best brands in retail, technology, and eCommerce. When healthcare, banking, and insurance organisations fail to meet these expectations, they risk losing customer loyalty and business.”

Despite the positive outlook on AI, only 15% of Singaporean respondents believe that generative AI surpasses human capabilities in creating customer communications content. Nearly half (46%) insist that humans should always review AI-generated content.

The report also highlights the importance of seamless omnichannel experiences, with 66% of Singaporeans indicating they would trust companies more if they offered consistent communication across all channels. The study suggests that organisations should focus on simplifying data intake processes, as 66% of consumers, including 73% of Millennials, would end interactions if the process is too complex.

Smart Communications’ research underscores the potential for AI to enhance customer experiences, whilst also emphasising the need for improved communication strategies to retain consumer trust and loyalty.
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JTC has announced the launch of a new site at Sengkang West under the Industrial Government Land Sales (IGLS) programme for the first half of 2025. This site, which is the last of seven Confirmed List sites for the period, features an extended lease tenure of 33 years, reflecting recent enhancements to the industrial land lease framework.

The Sengkang West site spans 2.32 hectares with a gross plot ratio of 2.5 and is zoned for B2 industrial use. The tender for this site will close on 19 August 2025 at 11:00 am. Interested parties can purchase the Tenderer’s Packet for $185.30, inclusive of GST, through the official JTC website.

This launch is part of JTC’s ongoing efforts to support industrial development in Singapore by providing strategically located sites with flexible lease terms. The enhancements to the lease framework aim to offer more options to businesses seeking industrial space, thereby fostering a conducive environment for industrial growth.

The Sengkang West site is expected to attract significant interest from businesses looking to expand or establish operations in Singapore, given its strategic location and the extended lease tenure. As the final site in the current programme, it represents a key opportunity for industrial development in the region.
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Singapore’s Centre for Liveable Cities (CLC) is set to present its pioneering research on regenerative city design at the London Climate Action Week from 25 to 26 June 2025. This initiative marks the beginning of CLC’s global engagement, which will also include participation in the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Brazil. The research aims to develop a scientifically validated framework for high-density cities to achieve net-positive environmental outcomes.

The CLC’s Executive Director, Hugh Lim, highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “Cities around the world are facing the challenge of achieving a high standard of liveability in a climate-challenged and resource-constrained world.” The research builds on previous studies into resilience and nature-based solutions, with practical examples such as intertidal terraces in Singapore and Hong Kong.

The London event will feature a Mayoral panel titled “Urban Futures Reimagined: A Mayoral Exchange on Regenerative Cities,” including speakers like Eirik Lae Solberg, Governing Mayor of Oslo, and Federico Gutiérrez, Mayor of Medellin. The discussion will focus on urban planning strategies that promote compact, walkable neighbourhoods and integrate nature-based solutions.

Additionally, a workshop on 26 June will delve into the application of regenerative design for high-density cities. This session, organised with partners including C40 and Arup, will target stakeholders from various sectors. The CLC’s efforts aim to advance the transition to net-zero, nature-positive, and socially inclusive cities, with further insights to be shared at the World Cities Summit in Singapore in June 2026.
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His Excellency Maulen Ashimbayev, Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament of Kazakhstan, is visiting Singapore from 24 to 25 June 2025. The visit, at the invitation of Singapore’s Speaker of Parliament, Seah Kian Peng, aims to bolster inter-parliamentary relations between the two nations.

The visit reciprocates Speaker Seah’s official trip to Kazakhstan in April 2024. During their meeting, Speaker Seah and Chairman Ashimbayev discussed regional and global developments, focusing on collaboration opportunities amidst a complex geopolitical environment. Speaker Seah will also host a lunch for Chairman Ashimbayev and his delegation.

Before meeting Speaker Seah, Chairman Ashimbayev attended the International Conference on Cohesive Societies. His itinerary includes meetings with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and visits to the Punggol Digital District and Marina Barrage. These visits are intended to provide insights into Singapore’s advancements in smart city technologies and water management practices.

The visit underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthen diplomatic ties and explore collaborative opportunities in various sectors. The exchange of ideas and experiences during this visit is expected to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation between Singapore and Kazakhstan.
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In a competitive labour market, work-life balance has emerged as the leading factor attracting talent in Singapore, according to Randstad’s 2025 Employer Brand Research report. The study, which surveyed 2,522 working adults in Singapore, highlights that work-life balance continues to surpass salary and benefits as the primary employee value proposition (EVP) for the third consecutive year.

The report reveals that 18% of respondents feel disengaged at work, with these individuals being 60% more likely to consider leaving their jobs than their engaged counterparts. A significant 41% of respondents attribute their disengagement to a lack of recognition or appreciation. David Blasco, Country Director at Randstad Singapore, noted, “With salary packages and benefits now highly competitive, work-life balance is emerging as a crucial differentiator for both attracting and keeping top talent.”

The research also indicates generational differences in priorities. Millennials are notably stepping back from using artificial intelligence (AI) at work, with only 36% reporting frequent usage—a 7-point decline from 2024. Meanwhile, Gen Z and Gen X have shown increased AI adoption.

The findings underscore the importance of work-life balance as a key motivator, with 40% of respondents citing it as their primary motivation. This is followed by opportunities for growth and development (37%) and a manageable workload (36%). The report suggests that employers focusing on these areas could enhance employee engagement and retention.

As Singapore’s workforce continues to evolve, the emphasis on work-life balance and equitable work environments remains a pivotal factor in talent attraction and retention strategies.
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Singapore Paincare, under the leadership of Founder and CEO Bernard Lee, has announced a significant rebranding initiative, unveiling a new logo and a refreshed focus on comprehensive, patient-first pain care. This move aims to integrate evidence-based Western medicine with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and expand its clinic network to better serve individuals living with pain.

The rebrand, themed “Our New Chapter: Pain-Free,” highlights Singapore Paincare’s commitment to accessible and holistic pain management. Key elements of this initiative include the treatment of over 20,000 patients using non-surgical, minimally invasive procedures, and the introduction of Singapore Paincare TCM Wellness, which combines TCM with Western medical practices.

Additionally, the expansion of DR+ Medical & Paincare clinics into heartland areas is set to increase accessibility for patients. The launch of the Ease the Pain Fund further underscores the Group’s dedication to community support, offering subsidised care for seniors and low-income families.

Bernard Lee expressed enthusiasm for the new direction, stating that the rebrand marks a pivotal moment in the Group’s mission to provide comprehensive pain management solutions. The integration of TCM with Western medicine is expected to enhance patient outcomes and broaden the scope of care available.

As Singapore Paincare embarks on this new chapter, the focus remains on delivering holistic and accessible pain management solutions, with future plans to continue expanding its reach and services across Singapore.
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UOB Asset Management (UOBAM) is urging investors to consider a shift towards Asian markets in the third quarter of 2025, as outlined in its upcoming Quarterly Investment Strategy. The firm highlights the nearly equal likelihood of three potential US economic outcomes: recession, continued growth, and stagflation. In light of these uncertainties, UOBAM recommends a neutral investment stance and regional diversification, particularly for those with portfolios heavily weighted in the US.

Anthony Raza, Head of UOBAM Multi-Asset Strategy, noted that the focus in Q2 was on President Trump’s unpredictable trade policies. However, in Q3, the attention is expected to pivot towards their impact on the US economy, with inflation and employment data being closely monitored for signs of recession. “So far, the data is inconclusive and could go either way in the coming months,” Raza stated.

The revaluation of Asian markets is already underway, with the region experiencing a more than 10% increase this year, compared to the US’s S&P 500 index’s 2% rise. Despite concerns over tariffs affecting China, UOBAM’s Group CIO, Chong Jiun Yeh, expressed optimism about the resilience of Chinese companies. Yeh highlighted Asia’s self-sustaining nature, robust domestic consumption, and the benefits of a weakening US dollar, which is currently at a three-year low.

UOBAM, a subsidiary of United Overseas Bank Limited, manages $376 billion in client assets and has a significant presence across Asia. The firm continues to be recognised for its digital innovation and sustainable investing initiatives.
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SIGEP Asia, the prominent trade show for the gelato, pastry, bakery, coffee, tea, pizza, chocolate, foodservice, and nightlife sectors, is set to return to Singapore’s Sands Expo & Convention Centre from 16 to 18 July 2025. The event will feature over 12,000 trade visitors and more than 350 brands from over 30 countries, offering a platform for industry professionals to engage in curated experiences and strategic networking.

Organised by IEG Asia, SIGEP Asia will be co-located with Speciality Food & Drinks Asia, Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia, and Restaurant Asia. This year’s edition promises an expanded line-up of immersive zones, live showcases, and networking opportunities. Highlights include an edible art installation by Singaporean chocolatier Janice Wong, live culinary demonstrations, and the Singapore National Coffee Championship 2025.

Janice Wong’s 9-metre chocolate art installation, created in collaboration with Valrhona, will be a focal point at the Chocolate Pavilion. “To bring this vision to life through a chocolate wall art installation viewed by thousands is truly a dream,” Wong stated. The installation will feature handcrafted bonbons, offering an interactive experience for attendees.

The Tech & Innovation Pavilion will showcase cutting-edge foodtech innovations, including robotics, AI, and IoT solutions. Visitors can explore hands-on applications of these technologies, enhancing their understanding of the latest advancements in the industry.

The event will also host the first-ever Asian Selections of the Panettone World Cup, with top competitors advancing to the 2026 finals in Milan. Additionally, the Singapore National Coffee Championship will spotlight local talent, with winners representing Singapore at the World Coffee Championships 2026.

SIGEP Asia 2025 aims to elevate Southeast Asia’s culinary scene, fostering strategic alliances and showcasing the latest industry trends and innovations.
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