Industry News

ETC has announced the relaunch of United House for collective sale by tender, presenting a significant investment opportunity in Singapore’s Orchard Road. The site, located on Kramat Lane, is a freehold land parcel of approximately 1,192.7 square metres, zoned for commercial use under the Master Plan 2019. Offers are invited by 1 July 2025, 3pm.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority has granted in-principle approval for hotel use, making United House an attractive option for boutique hospitality development. The reserve price is set at $121m (S$166m), translating to $2,222 (S$3,045) per square foot per plot ratio for commercial redevelopment or $2,376 (S$3,254) for hotel redevelopment.

Swee Shou Fern, Head of Investment Advisory at ETC, highlighted the growing demand for quality hospitality assets in Singapore, driven by the resurgence of tourism and related sectors. “United House’s rare freehold tenure, central location, and in-principle hotel-use approval offers a unique opportunity to create a flagship or lifestyle boutique hotel right in the heart of Orchard Road,” she stated.

The site benefits from its proximity to Dhoby Ghaut and Somerset MRT stations, as well as cultural landmarks like The Istana and the Singapore Art Museum. This accessibility makes it ideal for modern hospitality concepts catering to both leisure and business travellers.

The relaunch coincides with Orchard Road’s ongoing transformation into a pedestrian-friendly, sustainable lifestyle destination. As the district evolves, United House is poised to attract developers seeking flexible redevelopment opportunities.

Asia Pacific continues to dominate the global investment landscape, as revealed in Colliers’ latest Global Capital Flows report for June 2025. The report identifies Singapore, Japan, and Hong Kong as key players, ranking among the top 10 global capital sources in the first quarter, with Singapore in fourth place, Japan seventh, and Hong Kong tenth.

Japan has emerged as a top destination for cross-border capital, securing a spot in the top five for standing assets, whilst Australia ranks eighth. Notably, Japan’s activity remains above its five-year average, underscoring its sustained appeal.

Lucy Mallick, International Capital Lead at Colliers, noted, “Asia Pacific remains the most attractive region for land and development sites, with seven of the top 10 markets maintaining or improving their five-year average share of activity in Q1.” China and Singapore lead this list, followed by Australia, Malaysia, and India. China dominates with 80% of all cross-border activity.

The office sector remains the most sought-after in Asia Pacific, followed by industrial and retail sectors, despite multifamily being the global favourite. The economic outlook for the region is largely positive, though mixed across markets. Whilst forecasts for China, Hong Kong, India, and Australia remain stable, sentiment has weakened for Singapore, South Korea, and Japan. Japan is gradually raising rates due to elevated core inflation, whereas South Korea, Australia, and Singapore have initiated rate cuts in Q1.

Alex Worthington, Director of APAC Capital Markets at Colliers, remarked, “Global investor focus is shifting, with European investors increasing their interest in Asia Pacific markets. We expect momentum to carry into the second half of this year and beyond to 2026.”
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ClavystBio, a life sciences investor established by Temasek, and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore’s leading public sector R&D agency, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster MedTech ventures in Singapore. This collaboration will leverage ClavystBio’s venture-building expertise and A*STAR’s scientific capabilities to support venture creation, product development, and commercialisation.

The partnership is timely, as Singapore’s MedTech output reached S$20b in 2023, with Asia’s MedTech market projected to grow to $225b (S$304b) by 2030. Over the next two years, the collaboration will focus on co-creating new ventures, investing in A*STAR-affiliated companies, and fostering collaborations between A*STAR and ClavystBio’s portfolio companies.

Key areas of focus include:

– **Fostering new ventures:** A*STAR and ClavystBio will identify promising research to build new MedTech companies, combining scientific expertise with venture capital and guidance.

– **Advancing product development:** MedTech Catapult will aid in developing medical devices, whilst ClavystBio will explore commercial pathways for innovations.

– **Accelerating commercial readiness:** DxD Hub and ClavystBio will shape ventures in diagnostics and digital health, focusing on commercial viability.

– **Strengthening the ecosystem:** The partnership will assess Singapore’s MedTech landscape to identify gaps and investment opportunities.

Anselm Tan, Digital Health and MedTech Lead at ClavystBio, stated, “By combining ClavystBio’s investment and venture-building expertise with A*STAR’s deep scientific capabilities, we are cultivating an ecosystem primed for innovation and commercial success.” Irene Cheong, Assistant Chief Executive of Innovation and Enterprise at A*STAR, added, “This MoU marks a significant step forward in our joint efforts to co-create and grow globally investible MedTech ventures.”

This partnership aims to position Singapore as a leader in MedTech innovation, potentially transforming the local and regional landscape.
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Aventis Graduate School has announced a significant partnership with the Association of Educational Therapists (Singapore) [AET(S)] and Merlion Academy to elevate the standards of educational therapy and special education in Singapore. The collaboration, formalised on 4 June 2025, aims to develop certified training programmes, facilitate research, and create career pathways for educational therapists.

The partnership addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in educational therapy, a field crucial for supporting children with diverse learning needs. Samuel Teo, General Manager of Aventis Graduate School, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “This partnership marks an important milestone in advancing the professional standards and public understanding of educational therapy in Singapore.”

Key areas of collaboration include professional development, curriculum development, public engagement, career advisory, and research. The institutions will co-develop training programmes, host conferences, and drive research projects to enhance the field’s body of knowledge. Derrick Tan, Executive Director of Merlion Paediatric Healthcare Group, highlighted the integration of practical training with industry standards to better equip aspiring therapists.

Dr Chia Kok Hwee, Managing Principal Educational Diagnostician & Therapist and Secretary of AET(S), expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting its potential to promote educational excellence and professional growth. The collaboration aims to create a dynamic ecosystem bridging academic training, industry expertise, and community engagement, ultimately benefiting learners across Singapore.
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ByteBridge, a global IT infrastructure solutions provider, has inaugurated its Asia Pacific headquarters in Singapore, marking a significant step in its global expansion strategy. The new office, located in Singapore’s central business district, will serve as a hub for solution delivery, technical innovation, and customer support across Southeast Asia, South Asia, Greater China, and the ANZ region.

Vivian Qi, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President at ByteBridge, highlighted the strategic importance of the new office, stating, “The launch of our Singapore office represents a pivotal step in ByteBridge’s global strategy. We recognise the immense potential and distinct needs of the Asia Pacific region, especially in this AI-driven era.”

The opening event, attended by customers, partners, and industry leaders, featured a symbolic four-colour sand ceremony representing ByteBridge’s core values: taking action, prioritising customer value, building with transparency, and innovating through diversity. These values underpin ByteBridge’s commitment to delivering powerful solutions, including liquid-cooled data centres and intelligent collaboration.

Bruce Moore, newly appointed General Manager for Asia Pacific, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities in Singapore’s tech ecosystem. “With a strong local team, we are well-positioned to deliver high-quality solutions for AI, HPC, and smart collaboration,” he said.

Marvin Cunanan, Co-Founder and General Manager of ByteBridge Americas, emphasised the strategic importance of the new office, noting, “The Asia Pacific region will be a vital force in our global collaboration efforts.”

Looking forward, ByteBridge plans to invest further in AI-ready data centre infrastructure and integrated IT services, aiming to empower customers in their digital transformation journeys.
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Grand Park City Hall, a five-star hotel in Singapore, has been recognised among the top 1% of hotels worldwide in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards. This marks the second consecutive year the hotel has achieved this prestigious accolade, attributed to positive guest feedback and the dedication of its staff.

The Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards are based on a full year of Tripadvisor reviews and ratings from a global community of travellers. Only a select few hotels earn this distinction, highlighting exceptional hospitality. Guests frequently commend Grand Park City Hall for its prime location in Singapore’s Civic District, offering easy access to City Hall MRT station and major attractions such as Marina Bay and the National Gallery Singapore.

The hotel’s Crystal Club Lounge, which provides complimentary food and drinks throughout the day, is often highlighted as a standout feature by returning guests. The service at Grand Park City Hall is also highly praised, with one reviewer noting, “The staff are all fantastic and very accommodating.”

Grand Park City Hall, the flagship luxury hotel of Park Hotel Group, is situated in the heart of Singapore’s Civic District. It features 343 guest rooms across 10 floors, blending modern design with Peranakan motifs and vintage touches. This unique combination offers guests an immersive experience reflecting Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry.
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Marriott International’s Luxury Group has announced the return of its Luxury Dining Series, set to take place from July to September 2025 across Asia Pacific. This year’s theme, “Forgotten Flavours,” will see a range of luxury hotels, including The St. Regis Osaka, JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, The St. Regis Singapore, The St. Regis Jakarta, and The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, offering unique culinary experiences. These events will feature global culinary talents who will reinterpret ancient ingredients for contemporary tastes.

The series, which follows the success of last year’s inaugural campaign, promises an expanded line-up of stops and collaborations. Oriol Montal, Regional Vice President Luxury Asia Pacific excluding China, stated, “We are thrilled to unveil the latest edition of the Luxury Dining Series featuring an expansion of stops with a broader line-up of culinary talents across our global portfolio of luxury hotels.”
Highlights include a collaboration between Chef Takato Kitano of Wajo and Master Teppan Chef Yuki Oe at The St Regis Osaka, focusing on Japanese produce. In Jeju, a Six-Hands dinner will showcase the talents of chefs from JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, and The Flying Hog. Meanwhile, The Ritz-Carlton Perth will host an “East Meets West” dinner, blending Australian and Japanese culinary techniques.

Marriott Bonvoy members can bid on these exclusive dining events using their loyalty points, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to the series. As the series unfolds, it promises to offer unforgettable culinary experiences that blend craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and innovation, reflecting the evolving landscape of global gastronomy.
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Akesis Biologics, a biotechnology spinoff from the National University of Singapore (NUS), has unveiled MastGut, a groundbreaking supplement designed to enhance gut and colorectal health. This innovative product employs the DUSP10 enzyme, delivered via the probiotic Lactococcus lactis, to reduce gut inflammation and support long-term colorectal health. With colorectal cancer being the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, MastGut aims to address this pressing health issue.

MastGut distinguishes itself from traditional supplements by using a scientific approach grounded in academic research. “Most people think of probiotics as general digestive aids,” said Zhang Yongliang, co-founder and CEO of Akesis. “MastGut takes it much further. We intend to deliver an active functional protein that regulates inflammation and suppresses tumour-promoting enzyme activities—all using a probiotic vehicle.”

The DUSP10 enzyme acts as a brake on the MAPK pathway, a molecular signal chain often overactivated in gut inflammation and cancer. Studies have shown that higher expression of DUSP10 in humans is linked to better colorectal cancer outcomes. “This isn’t just another supplement,” said Chin Wen Png, co-founder and CTO of Akesis. “MastGut sits at the intersection of therapeutic treatment and nutritional science.”

Akesis Biologics is actively collaborating with hospitals, pharmacies, and research partners to expand MastGut’s reach across Asia and beyond. Associate Professor Benjamin Tee, Vice President of Ecosystem Building at NUS Enterprise, highlighted the significance of this launch, stating, “Akesis Biologics’ successful journey from lab to market exemplifies our ongoing commitment to nurturing deep tech ventures and empowering them to create meaningful societal impact.”
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The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and NUS Enterprise have launched the ninth edition of the PIER71™ Smart Port Challenge (SPC) 2025, inviting startups worldwide to develop innovative solutions for the maritime industry. The launch took place at Echelon 2025, Asia’s leading tech and startup conference, with participation from over 200 international startups, venture capitalists, and maritime partners.

To enhance its global outreach, PIER71™ will host 15 roadshows across 13 cities, including new locations such as Los Angeles, Boston, Germany, and the UK. The challenge features 15 problem statements across four focus areas: Maritime Green Technologies, Smart Shipping, Next-Generation Ports, and Digitalisation. Shortlisted startups will join a 10-week SPC Accelerate programme, offering targeted mentorship and market validation opportunities.

Since its inception in 2018, PIER71™ has supported nearly 150 startups, raising over $95 million (S$130 million) in venture capital. In 2025, four alumni secured a combined $25 million (S$34 million) in funding, with Seadronix raising $11 million (S$15 million) in Series B funding for its AI-powered ship navigation technology.

MPA Chief Executive Teo Eng Dih emphasised the challenge’s role in advancing maritime innovations, whilst NUS Senior Vice President Tan Sian Wee highlighted the importance of global connectivity in maritime innovation. Startups can submit proposals by 11 July 2025, with top participants eligible for MPA’s Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund and cash prizes at the SPC2025 Great Circle finals in November.
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Kyndryl has announced the appointment of Guat Ling Ang as Managing Director for its Singapore operations, a key hub for the company’s IT infrastructure and digital transformation services in the ASEAN region. Guat Ling, with her extensive experience in application and infrastructure services, is set to provide strategic leadership to help Kyndryl’s customers leverage emerging trends in artificial intelligence and IT modernisation.

Andrew Lim, Managing Director for ASEAN and Korea at Kyndryl, praised Guat Ling’s expertise, stating, “Guat Ling brings deep expertise and a proven ability to scale complex services and drive meaningful outcomes for both public and private sector customers.” Her leadership is expected to guide Kyndryl Singapore into its next growth phase.

Guat Ling expressed her enthusiasm for the role, saying, “I’m honoured to lead Kyndryl’s Singapore business at such a pivotal time. I look forward to working with our talented Singapore teams to deepen partnerships, deliver mission-critical services, and support our customers’ modernisation goals across sectors.”

Before joining Kyndryl, Guat Ling held senior management roles at NEC Asia Pacific, the Government Technology Agency of Singapore, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and Cognizant Technology Solutions. Her leadership has been pivotal in driving growth across these organisations.

Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, offers advisory, implementation, and managed service capabilities to thousands of customers in over 60 countries. The company continues to design, build, manage, and modernise complex information systems globally.
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