Industry News

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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Aurea, the residential component of Golden Mile Singapore, has seen a robust response from homebuyers and investors during its initial launch weekend. Of the 78 units released in Phase 1, 23 units—approximately 30%—were sold at an average price of S$3,005 per square foot. This interest highlights the demand for luxury residences offering exceptional views and a blend of heritage and modern sophistication in a rapidly transforming district.

The Chief Operating Officer of Far East Organisation’s Sales and Leasing Group, Shaw Lay See, noted the strong interest in Aurea’s premium 4-bedroom bay-facing units from the Signature Collection. “These homes provide spectacular sweeping views of Kallang Basin and the ocean, and slightly further afield—Marina Bay and the CBD,” she stated. The development’s unique integration of urban convenience and residential privacy, facilitated by a link bridge to The Golden Mile retail and commercial hub, adds to its allure.

Eighty-three percent of Aurea’s buyers are Singaporeans, with the remaining 17% being Permanent Residents from Malaysia. The 2- and 3-bedroom flats from the Prestige Collection accounted for 74% of sales, appealing to buyers with their well-designed spaces and investment potential. The 4-bedroom units are particularly attractive due to their expansive balconies and the ‘hanging garden’ concept.

Aurea is strategically positioned to benefit from Singapore’s ongoing urban renewal efforts, including the revitalisation of Beach Road and the completion of the North-South Corridor. With only 188 units available, Aurea offers a limited collection of unique residences, enhancing its exclusivity and value in the market.
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Aurea, a distinctive mixed-use development along Nicoll Highway, has captured the attention of discerning buyers during its launch weekend. The development’s appeal lies in its strategic location and the convenience it offers, making it an attractive option for those seeking a unique property with strong appreciation potential. According to Mark Yip, CEO of Huttons Asia, Aurea’s location reduces the need for long commutes for city workers, enhancing its desirability.

Aurea is set to benefit significantly from Singapore’s extensive urban transformation plans. The development is positioned at the forefront of the 120-kilometre Southern coastline redevelopment, which includes the Greater Southern Waterfront, Marina Bay, Kallang Basin, and the future Long Island project. Additionally, the North-South Corridor, expected to open progressively from 2027, will further enhance connectivity, making the area more accessible.

The Government’s focus on developing the Nicoll precinct, spanning approximately 59 hectares, adds to Aurea’s appeal. Plans for the precinct include new residential and recreational spaces, the relocation of the Singapore Sports School to Kallang, and a new indoor sports arena. Furthermore, the precinct will integrate with the future Bay Central Garden.

Despite these extensive transformation plans, the supply of new homes in District 7 remains limited. Aurea is likely the only new launch in the district in 2025, offering buyers a first-mover advantage. As these plans materialise, property prices are expected to rise, making Aurea a promising investment opportunity.
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Aurelle of Tampines, a new executive condominium (EC) project, has achieved remarkable sales success, with 90% of its 760 units sold at an average price of S$1,766 per square foot (psf). This marks the highest launch take-up rate for an EC since the Hundred Palms Residences sold out on launch day in July 2017. PropNex CEO Ismail Gafoor attributes this success to Tampines’ popularity as a mature, well-connected town and the limited supply of unsold ECs, which stood at fewer than 150 units as of the end of January.

The project saw all 260 units of its 4- and 5-bedroom types sold out, whilst 84% of the 500 three-bedroom units were transacted. Notably, 68% of buyers opted for the Deferred Payment Scheme (DPS) to finance their purchases. Aurelle of Tampines is strategically located near the upcoming Parktown integrated development, which will offer retail, commercial spaces, a hawker centre, and a bus interchange, and will be linked to the future Tampines North MRT station.

The recent announcement of a 5-year masterplan to enhance transport infrastructure and amenities in Tampines is expected to further boost the project’s appeal. Gafoor anticipates that Aurelle of Tampines will likely sell out when unit bookings open to more second-time buyers next month. The potential for capital appreciation is also a draw, as nearby Parktown Residence launched at an average price of S$2,360 psf, setting a possible future benchmark for EC resale prices.

The last EC launch in Tampines, Tenet, sold 72% of its 618 units on launch day in December 2022 at an average price of S$1,360 psf. Meanwhile, Novo Place in Tengah, launched in November 2024, has sold 91% of its 504 units at an average price of S$1,654 psf.
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Netflix has retained its dominant position in Singapore’s streaming market, boasting a market share four times greater than that of Apple TV+, according to a recent report by JustWatch. The report, which analyses data from 46,000 monthly users in Singapore, reveals significant shifts in the streaming landscape throughout 2024.

In the final quarter of 2024, Netflix continued to lead, whilst Prime Video and Disney+ were neck and neck for the second spot. The report also highlights the emergence of Max, which saw an impressive 8% increase in market share following its rebranding in November. Meanwhile, Apple TV+ and Catchplay experienced growth of 3% and 2%, respectively, since the beginning of the year.

Conversely, both Prime Video and Netflix faced declines, with market shares decreasing by 2% and 3%, respectively. These changes reflect the evolving preferences and engagement patterns of Singaporean viewers with various streaming platforms.

JustWatch, an international streaming guide with 55 million users across 140 countries, compiled the report to provide insights into the streaming industry’s dynamics. The data underscores the competitive nature of the market and the ongoing battle for viewer attention among major streaming services.

As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, platforms are likely to adapt their strategies to capture and retain audiences in Singapore. The report’s findings offer a glimpse into the shifting trends and consumer behaviours that will shape the future of streaming in the region.
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Teva Singapore has announced an exclusive partnership with Mandai Wildlife Group to launch a curated collection of adventure-ready footwear for the new Rainforest Wild ASIA park at Mandai Wildlife Reserve. The park, set to open on 12 March 2025, will feature eight zones that replicate a Southeast Asian rainforest, housing 36 species, including the François’ langur and Philippine spotted deer, both new to Singapore.

The collaboration will see Teva releasing six key footwear styles designed to navigate the park’s diverse terrains. These styles will be available for purchase at the park’s retail shop. Additionally, guests can enjoy free delivery on online purchases using a special code from the pop-up, along with an exclusive gift for using the code.

Visitors to the event can also participate in photo opportunities and receive complimentary jagua tattoo sessions. By posting a photo and tagging @tevasingapore and @mandaiwildlifereserve with #TEVAxMANDAI, guests can engage in these experiences.

This partnership not only enhances the visitor experience at Rainforest Wild ASIA but also highlights Teva’s commitment to creating functional and stylish footwear for outdoor adventures. The launch marks a significant step in promoting eco-tourism and wildlife conservation in Singapore.
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Singapore Management University (SMU) has announced significant updates to its Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE) programme, set to take effect in August 2025. The revamp introduces 14 new Industry Graduate Diplomas (IGDs), offering professionals a modular and flexible learning pathway aligned with Singapore’s focus on lifelong learning.

The IPMDE, first launched in January 2024, currently boasts over 130 learners. The new structure allows participants to earn an IGD by completing a curated set of modules, which can be stacked towards the full master’s certification. This approach aims to equip learners with in-demand skills whilst accommodating their professional commitments.

Professor Gary Pan, SMU’s Academic Director for Lifelong Learning, highlighted the programme’s focus on mid-career professionals and aspiring leaders. “With the introduction of Industry Graduate Diplomas, learners will have a more accessible and customisable pathway to upskilling,” he stated.

Jack Lim, Executive Director of SMU Academy, emphasised the institution’s role in preparing a future-ready workforce. “Through our extensive range of programmes and deep industry partnerships, we continue to shape Singapore’s professional landscape,” he said.

The revamped IPMDE includes a modular curriculum, personalised learning pathways, and recognition of prior learning, enhancing accessibility for professionals. The programme is highly subsidised, with up to 90% funding by SkillsFuture Singapore, making it one of the most affordable master’s programmes in the country. Registration is now open, with the new structure commencing in August 2025.
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Lady M has announced the launch of its first-ever sake-infused Mille Crêpes, crafted in collaboration with Dassai 23 sake. This new creation will be available from 8 March 2025 in all Lady M boutiques and online for a limited time. The cake features layers of delicate crêpes, sake-soaked vanilla sponge, and sake kasu pastry cream, topped with a white chocolate sake kasu glaze, powdered sugar, and gold leaf.

The inclusion of sake kasu, imported directly from Dassai in Japan, enhances the cake’s flavour profile with its natural sweetness, umami richness, and subtle nuttiness. This ingredient enriches the pastry cream, providing a silky texture and refined complexity.

The Dassai Sake Mille Crêpes is priced at $16 per slice in boutiques, $18 per slice at the Lady M Champagne Bar, and $198 for a whole cake online. This limited-edition cake is available for purchase online and in all Singapore Lady M boutiques.
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