Upcoming Events

Tech Week Singapore is the most important technology event for business in Asia. We offer diverse and unique content from global speakers and exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies. Business leaders and visionaries across all technology verticals come together and attend Tech Week Singapore to learn, network and shape their organisation’s future. Tech Week Singapore returns on 9-10th October 2024, presenting 7 incredible events, including Cloud Expo Asia, DevOps Live, Cyber Security World Asia, Big Data & AI World Asia, Data Centre World Asia, eCommerce Expo Asia and Technology for Marketing Asia. Address : Marina Bay Sands (Singapore) Date : 2024-10-09 09:00 – 2024-10-10 18:00 Website : https://www.singaporetechnologyweek.com/

SINGAPORE: Presented by the Franchising and Licensing Association (Singapore) and organised by Constellar, the 19th edition of Franchising & Licensing Asia will take place at Sands Expo & Convention Centre from September 12 to 14. Featuring over 300 franchise brands and licensable characters by 150 exhibitors, including international franchises from Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, the United States and Vietnam, FLAsia 2024 is the region’s most international franchising event. Unparalleled Insights and Opportunities for Franchising & Licensing in Asia Asia’s rapidly growing Gen Z population will become the highest consumer spending class globally by 2030, presenting vast opportunities as a target market for businesses to expand in Asia through franchising & licensing. With Asia already contributing over 30% of all franchised businesses worldwide, this region offers lucrative prospects for both homegrown and global brands, especially as the demand for quality products and services across sectors like beauty, wellness, education, and technology surges. As an entrepreneurial venture, franchising and licensing provides relative business stability and growth, and will appeal to financially-savvy younger generations with a lower-risk appetite. Singapore’s pro-business environment provides a strategic launchpad and springboard for these ventures, making FLAsia 2024 a crucial platform for exploring partnerships and driving regional business growth. FLAsia 2024 will offer unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors to connect with leading brands looking to expand across the rapidly growing Asia Pacific consumer market, as well as thought leaders, business owners and decision-makers offering insights into building business resilience and scalability. FLAsia 2024 is supported by regional trade and franchising associations in Cambodia, China, Egypt, Philippines, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. Deep-Dive into the World of Brand and Character Licensing For the first time, FLAsia 2024 features an expansive showcase of licensable brands and characters, as well as comprehensive content, to equip interested parties for the journey. Characters include those from the Marvel Universe, Pac Man, Sonic The Hedgehog, Tamagotchi and The Legend of Hei. Attendees can also connect with representatives from Avex Asia, Bandai Namco, Disney and XM Studios, among others, at the FLAsia Conference and gain insights into the evolving landscape of brand and character licensing. The conference will feature two key panel discussions on brand and character licensing, highlighting the advantages of strategic collaborations and emerging trends that are reshaping the industry. The first session, “The Power of Brand Licensing: How Strategic Collaboration Can Help Scale Your Business,” moderated by John Ong, Executive Chairman of FT Consulting, will explore how innovative licensing models and partnerships can expand brand reach and drive growth. Panellists include Alex Baillie, Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Products, The Walt Disney Company, Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East; Ben Ang, CEO of XM Studios; and Winston Chan, Board Director of IPOS International and Chief Executive Officer of FT Consulting. The second session, “Emerging Trends Shaping the Future of Brand Licensing: Disrupting Traditional Models,” moderated by Esther Wee, President of IIPCC Singapore and IP Consultant at RHT Law Asia LLP, will examine the impact of digital content, social media, technology, sustainability, and globalisation on brand licensing. The panel features Dr. Bryan Tan, Chief Executive Officer of COL Web, Edmund Low, Head of Licensing Division (APAC) at Avex Asia, and Tracy Lui, Senior Assistant Director of Marketing Communications at Mount Faber Leisure Group. “Character and brand licensing offers exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs to leverage established brand equity, accelerating growth and market penetration,” said Mr Edmund Low, Head of Licensing Division (APAC) at Avex Asia. “By partnering with recognizable characters or brands, businesses can tap into existing consumer fandom, reduce marketing costs and enhance overall credibility. Embracing brand extensions not only fosters innovation through collaboration but also creates synergistic partnerships that drive long-term success. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore the vast potential of brand licensing as a strategic pathway to elevate their business ventures and achieve sustainable growth.” Learn about the Impact of Technology and How to Build Tech-Driven Strategies in Franchising The conference will also feature two pivotal sessions focused on navigating today’s complex business and franchising environment impacted by technology. In the session “Business Not as Usual,” Kok Ping Soon, CEO of Singapore Business Federation, will provide critical insights into the key factors that drive business success, offering actionable strategies to overcome barriers and build resilient, future-ready companies amidst rapid technological developments and a challenging operating environment. Mr Kok Ping Soon, Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Business Federation (SBF) said, “In a ‘business-not-as-usual’ environment, SBF has supported our members by shaping solutions, allowing them to pivot quickly, maintain continuity, and adapt to unexpected challenges. SBF strives to empower our members with the necessary know-how and skillsets through the various initiatives such as driving internationalisation efforts, building on sustainability, and working with various partners to bring fundamental digital solutions to SMEs.” The second session, “The Tech Advantage: Why You Should Choose a Tech-Driven Franchise,” moderated by Oliver Tian, Founder and Director of Oliver Tian Associates, will explore how technology is revolutionising franchising. Panellists Jeremy Choong of Jayvoxx Holdings, Keith Tan of Crown Digital, and Xiao Saunders of Xiao Saunders Consultation will discuss the benefits of tech-forward franchises, including higher profits, easier expansion, and a competitive market edge. “Tech-driven franchise models allow entrepreneurs to tap into advanced technology to optimise operations and enhance customer experiences,” said Mr Keith Tan, CEO & Founder of Crown Digital Pte Ltd. “For instance, we combined AI and robotics to develop Ella the robot barista, a groundbreaking tech-enabled franchise opportunity that redefines the F&B landscape. Ella transforms the coffee experience by delivering consistent, efficient, and contactless service, catering to modern consumer needs. By investing in tech-driven franchises such as Ella, franchisees join the forefront of innovation, driving the future of automated retail globally.” Apart from the above sessions, attendees can engage in interactive discussions and practical workshops that will provide them with comprehensive knowledge on franchising in Southeast Asia. Connect with New and Established Franchisors Onsite FLAsia 2024 will enable attendees with franchising intent to make

KUALA LUMPUR: The inaugural MY Token event, scheduled for September 14 to 15, is set to redefine the blockchain and Web3 landscape in Malaysia. Poised to become the premier blockchain-related event in Asia and beyond, this landmark event will convene a global assembly of pioneers, including entrepreneurs, investors, developers, and industry experts, alongside international media, marking it as a pivotal gathering that will shape the future of blockchain innovation. “MY Token was founded to drive economic growth and tourism in Malaysia by attracting major Web3 brands and creating pathways for Web2 talents to transition into the Web3 space. Our platform aims to position Malaysia as a global tech hub, fostering collaborations that will shape the future,” said Sangeet Singh, Co-Founder of MY Token. ELEVATING MALAYSIA’S AMBITIONS MY Token, distinguished as the first blockchain and Web3 event in Malaysia to receive endorsements from Tourism Malaysia and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), exemplifies the increasing recognition and support for the blockchain industry within the country. “Malaysia has long been at the forefront of embracing technological innovations that have driven forward our tourism industry. The MY Token event is a testament to our commitment to fostering an environment that supports the growth of emerging technologies like blockchain and Web3. By hosting an event of this scale and significance, we are not only elevating Malaysia’s position as a hub for digital transformation but also showcasing our beautiful country with its diverse cultures, attracting travellers from around the world who will contribute to the vibrancy of our tourism industry,” said YBhg. Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia. Meanwhile, Ts. Mahadhir Aziz, Chief Executive Officer of MDEC added, “Under the national strategic initiative, Malaysia Digital (MD), MDEC is committed to fostering innovation and growth within the digital economy. By supporting trailblazers like MY Token, we are excited to see Malaysia host an event that will undoubtedly catalyse the development of the Web3 ecosystem in the region and ensure that Malaysia remains at the forefront of the global digital transformation. As we continue to drive our nation towards becoming a regional leader in digital innovation, MY Token is a pivotal event that brings together the brightest minds and fosters collaborations that will propel the industry forward. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a robust, inclusive digital ecosystem that empowers businesses and individuals alike.” A GLOBAL NEXUS MY Token will bring together leading industry players such as Horizen Labs, Forbes Web3, Polygon Chain, OX Media, Mocaverse, Real Protocol, Roam, PuffPaw, Chain Party, TechFlow, TechHub, and many others. These influential brands will draw participants from across the globe, including key regions such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, the USA, and Europe. Additionally, MY Token has appointed a team of Web3 Ambassadors from key markets across Asia, including Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, India, South Korea, and Taiwan. This distinguished group features Forbes 30 Under 30 honourees Renz Chong, Evan Luthra, and Gala Ling, along with Victor Lim Chun Howe, Johnny Lee, Casper Tan Wei Xiang, Jeongjin Lee, Yummy Tsu, and Michill Liu. Together, they will actively promote MY Token and highlight Malaysia’s burgeoning role in the digital economy, showcasing the country as a dynamic hub for blockchain innovation. This international convergence will significantly boost Malaysia’s tourism sector and contribute to the country’s economic growth, emphasising the event’s broader impact beyond the blockchain sector. A QUINTESSENTIAL EVENT FOR THE BLOCKCHAIN AND WEB3 FRATERNITY MY Token serves as a central hub for global leaders in the blockchain and Web3 space, offering an experience unlike any other in the region. A key highlight is the Play to Earn activity, where visitors embark on an immersive scavenger hunt across participating booths. Completing challenges and collecting stamps unlocks exciting rewards, including hot air balloon rides and entry into a massive raffle with giveaways worth up to RM 500,000. The event will also showcase the latest in blockchain technologies, products, and services, providing a first-hand look at innovations that are shaping the decentralised landscape. Attendees will benefit from educational sessions, hands-on workshops, and expert-led panels that offer valuable insights into these technologies and emerging trends. Additionally, MY Token features a dedicated gaming zone for engaging interactive experiences and Lightning Pitch sessions where startups, entrepreneurs, and innovators can present their groundbreaking projects to top venture capitalists and investors. With its diverse offerings designed to stimulate innovation and community engagement, MY Token is an essential event for anyone in the blockchain and Web3 ecosystem. POWERED BY INDUSTRY GIANTS With a mission to accelerate the adoption of blockchain technology, MY Token will be presented by some of the biggest names in the Web3 space. ApeCoin (APE), managed by a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO), is the Presenting Sponsor. As a utility and governance token created to empower the community surrounding the APE ecosystem, ApeCoin will showcase its rapidly expanding ecosystem, including ApeChain–a gaming-focused platform on Arbitrum. ApeChain will operate as a Layer 3 network, controlled by Ape holders. Animoca Brands, a prominent Web3 leader, is another major partner and sponsor.  Under the leadership of its internationally recognised Chairman and Co-Founder, Yat Siu, Animoca Brands is renowned for leveraging blockchain to deliver digital property rights to consumers worldwide and for its role in establishing the open metaverse. The company will showcase its ecosystem at an activation booth, including its flagship project, Mocaverse. Yat Siu will also be a key speaker at MY Token. “MY Token represents a significant step forward for the blockchain industry in Asia, and we are honoured to be part of it. It provides a vital platform for showcasing transformative projects like Mocaverse and connecting with the global community. The convergence of minds at this event will ignite new ideas, forge strategic partnerships, and advance the digital economy with lasting impact on the industry and beyond,” said Yat Siu, Chairman and Co-Founder of Animoca Brands. Matr1x Gaming, a key sponsor, is driving the evolution of the global gaming and digital content industries through blockchain and AI integration. As a trailblazer in this field,

Mark your calendars for ENGINEER & MARVEX 2024, happening from 18 – 21 September at the KL Convention Centre. The annual exhibition aims to bring together the engineering fraternity in Mechanical & Engineering, Civil & Structural, and the ACMV&R sectors focusing on the built environment and ESG principles. ENGINEER & MARVEX 2024 is your gateway to the future of engineering. Register Your Visit: https://bit.ly/ENGMAR24vis_ELP Exhibit With Us: https://bit.ly/ENGMAR24ex_ELP  Learn More: https://bit.ly/ENGMAR24_ELP

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia-China Summit 2024 (MCS 2024), which will take place from 17-19 December 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre is expected to generate RM2 billion in trade and investment leads. More than 500 exhibitors and 10,000 trade visitors will converge at MCS 2024, which features an international trade and exhibition expo and a leadership conference. The summit, organised by Qube Integrated Malaysia in association with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), will mark the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China bilateral ties and serve as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation. At a media briefing, Qube and MATRADE announced the Malaysian Consortium for Mid-Tier Companies (MCMTC) and the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) as strategic partners for MSC 2024. MATRADE Board Member Datuk Mohammad Medan Abdullah said the strategic partnership will bring a dynamic presence of Malaysian mid-tier companies (MTCs) and large corporations, ensuring the summit’s success in fostering robust trade relations and investment opportunities among Malaysia, China and the broader ASEAN region. “Our commitment to championing Malaysia’s MTCs, which are key drivers of growth, innovation and employment, is reflected in this partnership. MTCs play a critical role in driving growth, fostering innovation and creating employment opportunities. “They have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability amid various global economic challenges, making significant contributions to our economy,” he said. Mohammad Medan said that MICCI will ensure strong participation from diverse industries, making the summit a hub for meaningful discussions and collaborations. “These partnerships will facilitate the integration of businesses, from micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to large corporations, amplifying the summit’s impact to attract key industry players and decision-makers,” he said. Meanwhile, Qube Integrated Executive Chairman Richard Teo stated that the Malaysian MTCS will complement the substantial involvement of their China counterparts, who are eager to forge collaborations. “These China companies represent a dynamic array of sectors, including construction materials, hardware tools, home décor, automotive, daily use products, appliances, electronics, culture, arts and crafts, leisure, fashion, and lifestyle. “I’m confident there will be significant synergy between Malaysian and Chinese companies at the summit, as they can leverage their respective strengths and develop mutually beneficial partnerships,” he said. Teo said the organisations will have an opportunity to participate in pocket talks, business presentations, product launches, memorandum of understanding signings, and innovation showcases, fostering connections and generating business leads with China and ASEAN. MCMTC President Martin Ang said the partnership aligns with their mission to elevate MTCs into regional and global champions by building alliances and promoting sustainable growth. “MCMTC aims to gain and share knowledge, access new resources, and drive market growth while strengthening bilateral relationships at the summit. “Our participation in MCS 2024 aligns perfectly with our mission to foster strategic alliances, mobilise expertise, and pronmote sustainable growth, cultivating a robust business ecosystem for MTCs,” he said. — BERNAMA

KUALA LUMPUR: The International Café & Beverage Show (ICBS) 2024, the leading showcase of artisan food, beverage, and café products, will be returning to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from 23 to 25 May 2024. Visitors get to experience and explore the latest offerings from the café and coffee industry, the return of the Roasters Village, masterclasses, barista skills training and a baking competition held for the first time. Christopher McCuin, Managing Director of Montgomery Asia, the show organiser, said, “We are excited to see the responses from our partners, sponsors, and exhibitors. Following the feedback from last year’s show, we have expanded our space by 60% to include more exhibitors, participants, and visitors. All Exhibition space was taken up by March this year!” ICBS 2024 brings together 450 brands from over 40 countries, with 1,500 café owners, and over 1,000 baristas expected to attend . It is a platform that connects players in Malaysia and neighbouring markets with suppliers and talent from inside and outside the region. “2024 marks a pivotal milestone as we receive the endorsement by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). This endorsement allows eligible companies registered with MATRADE to apply for its Market Development Grant (MDG) as an ICBS exhibitor,” added McCuin. Returning to ICBS 2024 is its ever-popular, cost-effective Roasters Village, which allows small coffee roasters to showcase their unique coffee flavours to the ICBS audience. This year the pavilion will host roasters from Malaysia, Japan, Singapore and Vietnam. Across the show floor ICBS will also play host to companies from China, Italy, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Thailand with official pavilions joining also from Singapore and Taiwan ICBS 2024 is expected to draw over 12,000 visitors from Malaysia and abroad over three days. 23-24 May is exclusive for trade visitors, and the public and trade may visit the exhibition during its final day on 25 May. The exhibition focuses on speciality coffee, drinks, F&B products, café lifestyle, café furniture, design, and technology. It will also host the annual semi-finals and finals of the Malaysia National Coffee Championship (MNCC), organised by the Malaysia Specialty Coffee Association (MSCA). Visitors to the show will be able to see aspiring Malaysian baristas compete in the Malaysia Barista Championship, Malaysia Brewers Cup and Latte Art Championship. The winning Baristas will compete at the 2024 World of Coffee Championships. The Malaysian Latte Art champion crowned at ICBS in 2023 achieved an awe-inspiring 4th place showing at the recent World Coffee Championship in Taipei – reflecting Malaysia’s growing status and skill in global café and coffee culture. ICBS will host the BakinLove Next Top Baker competition finals for the first time on 25 May. Following a rigorous process, the top 6 finalists were selected among eligible competitors. This competition provides a platform for bakers to showcase their skills, talent, and creative flair, with special thanks to Unox for sponsoring the ovens needed. Several exciting training courses organised by the Barista Guild Asia (BGA) await professional baristas. These include classes on brewing methods, brewing science, cupping protocol, and the barista career progression. Other key supporting partners for ICBS 2024 include the ASEAN Coffee Federation, Barista Guild Asia, Association of Indonesian Coffee Exporters and Industries, Barista Association of Thailand, Hotel & Restaurant Association of the Philippines, Philippine Coffee Board, Lao Coffee Association, Myanmar Coffee Association, Singapore Coffee Association, Specialty Coffee Association of Indonesia, Thai Coffee Association and Vietnam Coffee Cocoa Association. McCuin concluded, “I would like to thank the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) for their support for ICBS 2024. Their support was vital to this event’s organisation, and we look forward to welcoming them, the Malaysian café and coffee industry and coffee enthusiasts to the show.” The show is being held in Halls 1 & 2 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, with trade and industry visitors the focus of the first two days (23rd and 24th May – 10.00am to 6.00pm). The third and final day (Saturday, 25th May – 10.00am to 5.00pm) will be open to both industry visitors and the public, who can enjoy some fantastic coffee aromas and products and enjoy the finals of the BakinLove Next Top Baker and the Malaysian National Coffee Championships. Anyone interested in visiting or exhibiting at ICBS 2024 should visit www.intl-cbs.com to find all the latest news and updates.