VOLUME 2 2019
Indonesia 4.0 Bisa!
Preparing for a Blockchain Future
Mercedes me Walk Up, Voice Up Lifestyle Store Comes to Chengdu Riding Indonesia’s Digital Wave Astra is moving fast to embrace Indonesia’s significant digital opportunity in both the consumer and industrial sectors. Djap Tet Fa, President Director of PT Astra Digital Internasional, shares more about the company’s digital plans and current focus areas. Page 10 Contents
A Collaboration to Fast-forward New Concepts Page 07 Multiple Accolades for Cycle & Carriage Page 22
Thailand’s Love of Coffee Leads Opportunity Page 17 Hong Kong Colleagues Urged to Go Green Page 30
The Pulse 04 Group-wide Senior Management Changes Chongqing’s Express Economic Growth
Perspective 10 Indonesia 4.0 Bisa!
Front Runners 14 Virtual Lifestyle Bank livi to Launch in Hong Kong JEC Thailand Wins Contracts for Eco-Friendly The Forestias Project
Celebrating Success 22 New Training Astra Strengthens its CSR Leadership Reputation Programmes Hactl Celebrates in Munich and Hong Kong Support For Our Future 26 MINDSET Initiatives Showcased at Singapore Mental Health Conference Continuous Improving Access to Education in Cambodia Learning Across Our People 34 the Group New Training Programmes Support Continuous Learning Across the Group Jardine Motors Group E-book Celebrates Inspiring Colleagues Page 34 and their Achievements
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 01 Jardine Foundation Scholarship Awards 2020
Applications for undergraduate courses are now open for students who wish to apply to our affiliated Colleges at Oxford, and Cambridge for the academic year commencing in October 2020 APPLY NOW Deadline: 21st October 2019
The Jardine Foundation was set up in 1982 to mark the 150th anniversary of the Jardine Matheson Group. The Foundation provides scholarships covering tuition fees and living expenses to students originating from the countries where Jardines operates, primarily in Asia.
The goal of the Foundation is to develop future leaders who aspire to give back to their communities.
Scholarships are available for courses at the following Colleges: University of Cambridge – Downing, Magdalene, Peterhouse, Trinity University of Oxford – Exeter, Oriel, The Queen’s, Trinity
https://www.jardines.com/en/community/foundation.html MD’s Desk Six Reasons Jardine Foundation to be Excited Resilient is one of the best words to sum up the Group business performance in the first half of the year, which saw continuing Scholarship Awards 2020 strong results from our motor interests in China, as well as good contributions from Hongkong Land’s investment and development property businesses. Applications for undergraduate courses Dairy Farm also delivered improved sales in most divisions and These projects are now open for students who wish to apply to saw green shoots from its ongoing investment in its transformation plans. But there were also headwinds including showcase the diversity our affiliated Colleges at Oxford, weaker consumer sentiment impacting some of Astra’s businesses, and challenging trading conditions in Southeast Asian and dynamism of our and Cambridge for the academic year car markets. Looking to the rest of the year, while we have commencing in October 2020 everything to play for, potential geopolitical and macroeconomic businesses and factors – which continue to unfold – could be significant for us. a growing spirit Taking a longer view, I am encouraged by the strategic focus of our businesses, and their long-term plans, and six exciting of collaboration. partnerships are profiled in this issue ofThistle , including: 1. Maxim’s partnership with Starbucks is a good example of long-term vision and cooperation with a great partner, and Executive Chairman and Maxim’s – with a local partner – recently took over the right to Managing Director APPLY NOW operate and develop Starbucks stores throughout Thailand. Ben Keswick 2. Michael Wang, Chief Executive of the virtual bank livi, provides Deadline: 21st October 2019 a progress report on this joint venture with Bank of China Hong Kong and JD Digits, outlining its potential benefits. 3. Astra is also embracing Indonesia’s vast digital opportunity and the Perspective feature looks at Astra’s ambitious digital plans, collaborations, and innovative mobility offerings. 4. A digital partnership between Startup Autobahn (an open platform powered by Plug and Play and backed by Daimler) and Jardine Cycle & Carriage, Zung Fu, and Jardine Motors Group in the United Kingdom has helped ‘fast-forward’ several projects. 5. A hackathon partnership between the Jardine Restaurant Group and the Hong Kong University of Science and The Jardine Foundation was set up in 1982 to mark the 150th Technology could also see the introduction of ‘Lord of the anniversary of the Jardine Matheson Group. The Foundation Wings’ – an AR game – at some KFC restaurants soon. provides scholarships covering tuition fees and living expenses 6. Finally, to celebrate Jardine Cycle and Carriage’s 120th to students originating from the countries where Jardines birthday, a university scholarship programme was launched operates, primarily in Asia. to support ASEAN students. The first school built under the ACLEDA-Jardines Education Foundation also opened in a remote part of north Cambodia. The goal of the Foundation is to develop future leaders who These projects showcase the diversity and dynamism of our aspire to give back to their communities. businesses and a growing spirit of collaboration across the Group, and with external partners, which provides a tremendous Scholarships are available for courses at the following Colleges: springboard for more exciting opportunities in the future. University of Cambridge – Downing, Magdalene, Peterhouse, Trinity University of Oxford – Exeter, Oriel, The Queen’s, Trinity Ben Keswick
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 03 https://www.jardines.com/en/community/foundation.html The Pulse
From left: Dr Paul Sin, Leader of Fintech Practice and APAC Blockchain Lab for Deloitte China; Gregory Simon, CEO Preparing for a and founder of Loyyal; Martin Baumann, co-founder and Managing Partner of CMCC Global; and Emma Cui, CEO and founding partner of LongHash, with event organiser Blockchain Future and moderator Laura Goldwyn, Jardine Executive Trainee.
The transformative benefits offered by blockchain Blockchain Opportunities for Jardines technology – and relevant applications that might be Loyalty programmes, automatic data reconciliation, suitable for Group businesses in the future – were the supply chain tracking and smart contracts were focus of a recent Speaker Series forum hosted by highlighted by the speakers as areas where blockchain Innovate Jardines (IJ) in Hong Kong. applications could make a significant difference for Blockchain experts including consultants, fund Group businesses. managers and project leaders were among the Eager to learn more, over 50 guests, including Y K panellists in the session, which provided a Pang, Deputy Managing Director, John Witt, Group comprehensive introduction to the emerging Finance Director of Jardine Matheson Group, and Mark foundational back-end technology. Citing real-world Lunt, Group Managing Director for JOS, participated examples, the speakers explained how blockchain’s enthusiastically in the Q&A session. Questions peer-to-peer network system enables participants to covered the potential risks associated with blockchain; interact and trade digital assets without the need for what makes a good blockchain provider; how urgently an intermediary, thereby cutting costs and simplifying do we need to adopt new technologies; how to how we do business. determine the most relevant technology and more.
04 Key Takeaways Prepare your businesses to be blockchain-ready Blockchain has the potential to sooner, rather than later, was the main call to action from the event. Speakers noted that there is an urgent transform the way that we do need to learn about and prepare for a future when business. What all of our people blockchain technology goes mainstream and impacts need to do is to really SWOT up all parts of business. on it, learn all about it, come to Commenting on the session, IJ Chief Executive Michael events like this, and prepare Poon said, “The speakers explained blockchain in very practical terms, and the various ways it can be adopted ourselves for when this across our businesses. They also provided potential technology will arrive and be reasons for us to start our own blockchain trial projects part of our daily lives. to ensure we stay ahead of the curve and [are] well- positioned to optimise benefits in the future.” If you would like more information about blockchain, Jardine Matheson Group please contact the IJ team, who can provide more Deputy Managing Director learning materials or host a blockchain workshop. Y K Pang
Group-wide Senior Management Changes
Important changes are being made in senior management at Jardine Matheson Group, effective October. These reflect the evolution of the Group and the achievements and commitment of its leadership team. Deputy Managing Director Y K Pang will take on the newly created role of Chairman of Hong Kong. Mr Pang is well respected in Hong Kong due to his involvement in the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong Management Association, Employers’ Federation of Hong Kong and Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce. As the city’s Y K Pang Alex Newbigging largest private sector employer, the Group makes a significant contribution to the local economy and holds a leading position in the market. Mr Pang will continue to develop the Group’s strategy in Hong Kong to take advantage of the opportunities expected to arise from the proposed Greater Bay Area initiative. Joining Mr Pang in Hong Kong is Alex Newbigging, currently Group Managing Director of Jardine Cycle & Carriage (JC&C). Mr Newbigging has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Jardine International Motors (JIM), the unified motors group launched this May – he will hold responsibility for managing the Group’s relationship with Zhongsheng, in which Jardine Strategic Benjamin Birks John Witt has a 20% interest. Benjamin Birks will move to Singapore to replace Mr Newbigging as Group Managing Director of JC&C. With a strong history as a senior executive, Mr Birks will be driving future growth at JC&C and further developing key partner relationships in Southeast Asia. John Witt, currently Group Finance Director, who has been a Commissioner and Excom member of Astra since 2016, will also become the Chairman of Astra’s Excom. Mr Witt has many years’ experience working in Southeast Asia and has built an extensive knowledge of, and familiarity with, Astra.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 05 The Pulse
On the revenue front, Jardines businesses in Chongqing Chongqing’s Express generated RMB29 billion (US$4.1 billion) in 2018 with Economic Growth 48% from retail, 40% from property development, and 12% from the car dealership business. Connecting the northern, southern, eastern and The businesses are benefitting from the enhanced western parts of China, Chongqing’s central location connectivity resulting from the OBOR and YREZ means it is well positioned to benefit from growth initiatives, said Mr Hsu. A good example of this is Zung opportunities offered by China’s expansive One Belt Fu’s agreement with Mercedes-Benz to transport cars One Road (OBOR) and Yangtze River Economic Zone from Germany to Chongqing via the Sino-European rail (YREZ) development plans. link. Similarly, Yonghui Superstores now imports more This was one of the key points made by Jardine high-value products such as seafood and fruit, thanks Matheson (China) Chairman David Hsu during his to increased air cargo services and faster, more efficient speech at the Belt and Road Forum for Interconnected custom clearance processes. Land-Sea Development, organised by the Silk Road Think Tank Association and Chongqing Municipal Government on 3 June. During his ‘Shaping a New Shared Future for Interconnected Land-Sea Development’ presentation, Mr Hsu said OBOR enables global partnerships in several important areas, including the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, industrial cooperation and people-to-people connectivity. Significant Investment in Chongqing Given these factors, Chongqing’s potential for growth is significant, said Mr Hsu, noting that in terms of investment in China, Chongqing is the city where Jardines has invested the most in recent years.
Speakers and VIP attendees at the Belt and Road Forum for Interconnected Land-Sea Development included Guo Yazhou, Deputy Minister of CPC International Department (front row, seventh from left), David Hsu, Jardine Matheson (China) Chairman (front row, sixth from left) and Pan Yiqin, Vice Mayor of Chongqing (front row, sixth from right).
2019 Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation
As Chairman of the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC) and Director of Jardine Matheson, Lord Sassoon attended President Xi Jinping’s Second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing from 24 to 26 April. Deputy Group Managing Director Y K Pang also attended the Forum as a member of the Hong Kong delegation, led by Chief Executive Carrie Lam. In addition, Lord Sassoon attended a banquet hosted by International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) Minister Song Tao. He also spoke at a British Embassy/CBBC reception at the British Embassy, along with UK Chancellor Philip Hammond, From left: UK Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China Dame Barbara Woodward; Lord Sassoon; UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond; UK Minister of State for Trade and Export Promotion to launch the latest CBBC Belt and Road report, and Baroness Fairhead; UK Trade Commissioner for China Richard Burn; China International Contractors had individual meetings with IDCPC Vice Minister Association Chairman Fang Qiuchen; and the UK Treasury’s Special Envoy to the Belt and Road Initiative Sir Douglas Flint. Li Jun and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank President Jin Liqun.
06 A Collaboration to Fast- Are there exciting projects in the pipeline? There are three today: the first is the roll-out of Salesforce for an forward New Concepts end-to-end future-proof solution for sales and aftersales services. The second is online e-commerce for new and used vehicle sales and we are talking with several start-ups, including Roadstar.ai, to launch an online vehicle sales solution for the group. The third is a business-wide review and rationalisation conducted with Tata Consulting to standardise and simplify our IT stack. How does working with start-ups differ from projects developed internally? The collaborative spirit runs strong across Jardine Matheson’s Group of companies, with many seeking partnerships with Start-ups don’t have a legacy or preconception of how things start-ups to create new solutions to improve customer service. should be done; their innovation perspective is ‘anything is A good example is the alliance with Startup Autobahn – a mobility- possible’, which is hugely refreshing. They’ve also clearly defined focused open innovation platform powered by Plug and Play and their vision and point in the market. Often their view of the world backed by Daimler. The partnership was facilitated by Innovate is ‘an inch wide and a mile deep’, whereas ours tends to run ‘a mile Jardines (IJ) and to date has involved Jardine Cycle & Carriage, Zung wide and an inch deep’. Fu, and Jardine Motors Group (JMG) in the United Kingdom. What are some of the key skills needed to advance partnerships The partnership enables companies to be ‘matched’ to late-stage with start-ups? start-ups in Startup Autobahn’s network (Europe, Singapore and Have an open mind and accept we won’t get it right first time. China). Once matched, they collaborate to ‘fast-forward’ the We’re not going to buy a fully-tested turnkey solution at Startup development of new concepts. Jason Cranswick, Commercial Director, Autobahn. We must be willing to partner, mentor, be open-minded JMG, shares more about the alliance and what we can expect. and have compassion for these young start-ups who are often very What strengths do we bring to this partnership with Startup daunted to work with a large corporate – just like we’re daunted by Autobahn and vice versa? rapid changes happening in our industry. We bring the interface with the consumer – and scale – to provide Finally, what are some of the biggest benefits to working high-quality intel for start-ups. We also bring the reality of our ‘as is’ with start-ups? business. The start-ups become more aware of the complexities Without IJ or Startup Autobahn, our default would still be more we’re dealing with and this often determines if we are a good match. defending the status quo rather than challenging and disrupting. I Startup Autobahn brings very open-minded automobile come back from Startup Autobahn events with vision, energy, ideas manufacturers to the table and a genuine interest in understanding and confidence that our initiatives are the right thing to do. I’m our business challenges. The team works very closely with us to energised to get us ready for the future – our data, IT, technology curate a portfolio of people to meet during expo events and stack and mindsets. The benefits are multifaceted, and not always alongside Daimler and Porsche, they really show that they’re up obvious, but we’ve learned huge amounts from the partnership and for the fight and that they’re interested to see how our ecosystem from start-ups. We’re very excited for what lies ahead. is changing. It’s a unique collaboration.
Jason Cranswick (second from right) discusses with Salesforce reps the roll-out of the company’s end-to-end sales and aftersales solution, the need for which was driven by JMG’s interaction with start-ups in Startup Autobahn’s network.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 07 The Pulse
Receive Document Data Upload to AI and RPA Tech Powers Scan Document Classification Extraction SAP FICO Dairy Farm Singapore’s Digital Transformation Scanning
Machine RPA Learning RPA
Data Analytics Workflow
A platform powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotic We have transformed paper-based invoices from warehouse Process Automation (RPA) that has transformed invoice into SAP (Systems, Applications and Products) entries to processing for the Dairy Farm Singapore finance team has significantly improve speed, scale and accuracy. the potential to do the same for other Group businesses, says What were some key learnings? Tom van der Lee, Dairy Farm Finance Director for South East Asia. As this was our first dip into AI and robotics, there was a lot of Designed by WorkFusion, the platform has revitalised invoice learning with the vendor, WorkFusion, IJ, and the finance teams. management, changing it from a slow, manual process to one While things can look straightforward on paper, when you start that is digital, accurate, predictable and scalable, delivering to automate manual operations, you forget that many decisions a host of tangible business benefits. Here, Mr Van der Lee are made subconsciously, and that we all have our own way of shares more about the project’s backstory, the benefits so far, doing things. So, it was challenging to program these factors the process of collaborating with Innovate Jardines (IJ), and how into the AI and robots. There was an element of trial and error, the platform has been received. and the project took a bit longer than anticipated. How did this project get started and what were the objectives? We also learned a lot from the collaboration with IJ, who played A review of our processes in 2016 was the starting point. This a major role in identifying a suitable vendor for this specialist revealed that our operating costs were too high compared to the request, as well as in negotiations and providing great advice benchmarks set, and the information generated was low-quality, and support throughout the trial phases. which impacted important financial decisions made by our Although it is early days, what have been some of the positive businesses. So, we developed a vision: to become best-in-class outcomes so far? in finance discipline delivering more business impact. We’ve shown that automation can be deployed successfully To do this, we needed new systems to lower costs and improve in various roles. We can process invoices faster, our statements outputs. As a first step, we identified processes that could are more accurate, and our suppliers are paid on time, which be simplified, before analysing opportunities to standardise is important. Overall, there are far fewer errors and processes processes across the business. As different financial approaches are smoother. had been adopted by various brands over the years, we wanted to standardise as much as possible before looking On the people side, we have automated tasks that were quite at automation opportunities. mundane and time-consuming, so the teams who used to do this now focus on more interesting work. And when you bring What was automated and what was involved in making automation and cutting-edge technology to the function, many this happen? people are more motivated to explore and learn. Several changes were implemented, beginning with an RPA Now that this project is off the ground can it be adopted by solution to automate bank statement processing and month-end other businesses? reporting. Pre-RPA, colleagues had to download bank statements every morning and then upload them to different systems before We did the trial in Singapore and hope to replicate it for Dairy they could be processed. As this was a simple, specific and Farm in Malaysia and Indonesia, and potentially Vietnam. I want regular operation, RPA was well-suited to automate the process to stress that this system can be very easily copied and adopted and could also be managed by the finance team themselves. by any of the other Group businesses. Because the pain points that we faced – and have addressed – are shared by many other Invoicing processing presented bigger challenges; how did businesses and functions, I think there will be strong interest an AI solution overcome these? and I am very happy to talk to Group colleagues who would like Invoicing is a big pain point because many invoices from to learn more. suppliers are paper-based or PDFs. This makes automation quite challenging because every invoice looks different; and Business Impact companies often change the format of their invoices. Given the high variation, a lot of manual intervention was involved. Customer Experience Time to Value To make this more efficient – and this is where AI came into play 90% 78% 14 – learning bots were trained to manage the diverse invoices sent less time to process less time to process weeks from discovery by our more than 2,000 vendors by scanning and continually complex invoices simple invoices to production learning and fine-tuning to produce a new solution.
08 Students flexed their creative skills in two challenges: hardUST, Coming to a KFC Outlet a 48-hour hardware development challenge to create a working Soon: Lord of the Wings prototype of their idea, and hackUST, a 24-hour software development contest. Throughout the 48 hours, JRG employees, ‘Lord of the Wings’, an augmented reality game for KFC customers, as well as colleagues from Innovate Jardines and Group Human and Chick N’ Go, an automatic food vending machine optimising Resources in Jardine Matheson, were on hand to mentor and offer KFC kitchen operations, were some of the outstanding ideas feedback to the teams. generated at the recent 2019 Hackathon@HKUST (Hong Kong After a fun – and sometimes gruelling – 48 hours, Chick N’ Go, a University of Science and Technology). vertical, automatic food vending machine to reduce food prep time These projects, and more, were brainstormed by more than 500 and kitchen clutter was judged the winner of the hardUST contest. students from 33 countries at the annual HKUST hackathon, of The winner of hackUST meanwhile, was ‘Lord of the Wings’ – an which the Jardine Restaurant Group (JRG) was the title sponsor. augmented reality gaming solution that customers can play; if It was the first hackathon backed by JRG and its brands, KFC they win, they can redeem rewards from their dining tray. and Pizza Hut; and it may the first of many, said JRG Chief Cash prizes and internship opportunities were presented to Chick Executive Andrew Wong. N’Go and ‘Lord of the Wings’ teams to reward their efforts. JRG “As we accelerate our digital transformation – and triple our also provided seed funding to further develop ‘Lord of the Wings’. investment in digital initiatives over the next three years – we will Commenting on the hackathon, JRG Chief Digital Officer Matthew look to support more hackathons, as they are great platforms to Chan said, “It is a great platform to show the next generation generate bold, fresh ideas and nurture new talent,” said Mr Wong. of potential talents what the F&B industry is really about, and “Our involvement in the Hackathon@HKUST is a starting point through engaging them to tackle industry-wide challenges, we to not only cultivate new ways of thinking, but also drive a cultural hope to give students a better understanding about the industry, change within the organisation and inspire our 23,500 employees and ultimately become interested to join and make an impact to come up with new entrepreneurial ideas to take our business in the future.” to new heights.” Following Hackathon@HKUST, the students visited JRG’s newly hardUST and hackUST opened office in Hung Hom to participate in a knowledge-sharing and reflection session. Hackathon@HKUST 2019 challenged students to develop creative solutions to either optimise operations or improve the customer experience at JRG restaurants.
JRG staff Wesley Zhai (left) and Jason Klanderman interacting with and guiding students during the mentoring session at the competition.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 09 Perspective
Indonesia 4.0 Bisa!
Indonesia’s middle-class opportunity is especially bright and key numbers back this up. With 264 million people, it is the Our growth prospects today, most populous country in ASEAN and the fourth largest consumer market in the and in the future, are tied to world in terms of population behind China, Greater China and Southeast India, and the United States. Asia. This is our backyard – it’s Powered by a burgeoning middle-class and where we have a competitive fast-growing consumer base, the Indonesian advantage. In short, we economy has enjoyed an annual GDP growth rate averaging 5% over the past decade. believe strongly in the future Longer-term, the outlook remains positive of Asia’s middle classes. because 60% of the population is below 30 years of age, and it is growing at a rate of 2.9 million a year. Urbanisation is also expected Ben Keswick to reach 71% of the total population by 2030.
10 Urbanisation to reach 71% of total population by 2030*
ASEAN
Population of 264 million Largest in ASEAN^
Fourth largest consumer market#
Digital market value prediction: triple increase from US$27 billion in INDONESIA 2018 to US$100 billion by 2025∆
*McKinsey and Company, The Evolving Indonesian Consumer, 2014; ^The Jakarta Post, Indonesia has 171 Million Internet Users: Study, 2019 #The Hong Kong Trade Development Council, ASEAN in Focus: The Indonesian Consumer Market, 2017 ∆The Jakarta Post, Indonesia’s Digital Economy to Dominate Southeast Asia by 2025, 2018
Indonesia’s Rising Digital Wave As Indonesia moves forward with Making Indonesia 4.0 initiatives, and with the country predicted to be For Astra these macro trends point to a positive future the largest digital economy in Southeast Asia by 2025, in the industries it operates in: automotive; financial how is Astra preparing to embrace this opportunity? services; heavy equipment; mining; construction and energy; infrastructure and logistics; agribusiness; We have identified a few key areas to focus on and get IT and property. While these sectors are diverse, they right. Knowing our customers better to get a deeper are linked by new opportunities offered by Indonesia’s understanding of their purchasing behaviour was the vast digital potential and aspirations. On the industrial first essential step – quality data enables us to design front, the government’s Making Indonesia 4.0 campaign products and services to meet the needs and aims to accelerate the digitisation of industry and behaviours of our customers. manufacturing, and auto is a focus sector. Designing and analysing the business models best Indonesia’s digital economy is also poised to become suited to our businesses was the second focus area. the largest in Southeast Asia. Driven by e-commerce, Do we stay with what we have? Or look at more online travel, ride-hailing services and online media, disruptive options? Building our competence and the digital market value is predicted to triple to US$100 capabilities was the third area and we are doing this billion by 2025 from US$27 billion in 2018. Modernisation organically via Astra Group Holding, and investments and expansion in the industrial and consumer sectors, including a joint venture between Astra and WeLab coupled with the passionate ‘bisa’ (can-do) attitude to launch Maucash, a peer-to-peer lending app. shared by millions of Indonesians towards digital, We have also made two rounds of investments signals a major wave of opportunity for Astra. Djap Tet (totalling US$250 million) in Gojek, a leading Fa, President Director of PT Astra Digital Internasional ride-hailing decacorn in Indonesia, and we anticipate (Astra Digital), shares more about the company’s digital strategic Astra-Gojek collaborations in the near future. plans and focus areas in the near and medium term. In addition, we have also joined Plug and Play, an incubator company that connects us with leading start-ups in Indonesia, Asia, and the rest of the world. Last but not least, Astra has also established Astra Digital, an incubation arm with a goal to build an Astra-owned ecosystem while offering innovative solutions for the next generation of customers, covering areas such as marketplace, personal mobility, loyalty and big data analytics, and more.
Djap Tet Fa at media gathering Astra Digital Menyambut Indonesia.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 11 Perspective
Astra has invested in Indonesian ride-hailing phenomenon, Gojek.
What online solutions or offerings do you have today? E-commerce, travel, ride-hailing services and media are anticipated leading growth sectors for digital in As we have a vast customer base and broad reach Indonesia – what else do you see as emerging sectors? nationwide, we have range of offerings from Astra Digital including Seva.id, an online marketplace to Fintech, whether lending, payments, insurance or showcase the full range of Astra products, and attract other services, has big potential here. I think the ability more visitors to track their purchasing behaviour. By to get a loan quickly and relatively hassle-free online doing so, this helps us provide personalised offerings would appeal to many Indonesians. Right now, getting to customers. As transportation is a big issue for a loan from a bank in the traditional way can take days Indonesia – an archipelago with more than 18,000 or even weeks. Healthcare is another growth sector islands – we also have mobility solutions covering – more Indonesians are spending more on healthcare parking and ride-sharing for urban residents, as well and increasingly they will want services and support as those who want to travel from city to city – we call they can access online. This is also compounded by this the ‘hitchhike’ solution. the fact that Indonesia’s middle class is growing, with many moving up the socio-economic pyramid. We also have an aggregator business run in collaboration with 25 intercity travel agencies to provide a united, seamless online booking system for inner-city shuttle buses. Our other mobility solution called MoviC is an online rental product with more than 3,000 cars listed and a presence in 46 cities, which is especially popular with car rental SMEs who serve as the supply side on the platform. Given Astra’s scale, do you currently run big-data or analytics-driven programmes to better understand customers in various sectors? Getting to know our customers better – especially their consumption and payment behaviour – is vital for our businesses, considering the low engagement frequency in Astra’s businesses today. So, we have started several big data projects including an AI (artificial intelligence) initiative. We have built AI prototypes such as facial recognition and crowd counting, with the aim of gathering in-depth information about customers to provide our businesses with better insights that they can use to improve their products and The Maucash app provides a variety of services to meet the services, and how they engage with customers. daily needs of Indonesians.
12 The rise of the digital economy has led to the New Digital Offerings to development of a strong collaboration culture; Get Indonesians Moving even between long-time competitors. Is this something Astra is open to? Whether taking on Jakarta’s frequently gridlocked roads or making plans for inter-city travel across a nation of Right now, our collaboration efforts are mostly 18,000 islands, getting around Indonesia is a challenge internally focused to strengthen our businesses, for many. That’s why several of Astra’s latest digital but in time I can see more partnerships evolving, offerings are transport-related with a focus on enhancing such as the one between Gojek and Astra. urban commuting (and job creation) and inter-city travel. Internally, how does Astra support and encourage GOFLEET, a mobility solution for people who don’t have a culture of innovation and disruption? Do you run access to a car – but want to work with a ride-hailing training programmes or innovation challenges? platform as a driver-partner – is the latest offering from Our drive to build a culture of innovation is ingrained Astra and Gojek. As well as getting access to a car, within our DNA. One of our high-profile programmes GOFLEET driver-partners will also be given free is InnovAstra, an internal innovation competition maintenance service at Astra-owned workshops, road that has been held annually since 1980 to showcase, safety training, 24-hour emergency support, and accelerate, and recognise innovation across all accident plus life insurance. Astra companies. Speaking at the launch in July, Astra President Director Within Astra, the demand for data scientists has Prijono Sugiarto said, “GOFLEET is an implementation of grown exponentially. To meet this demand, Astra Astra and Gojek’s strategic partnership that was Digital runs a programme to grow the next generation established since our investment in Gojek in February of data scientists through a Data Scientist Bootcamp, 2018. We endorse partnerships between [the] where we actively provide mentorships to fresh automotive industry and technology to bring more graduates from top universities. Upon completion positive socio-economic developments to the public, in of the programme, we offer full-time positions in line with Astra’s goal to prosper with the nation.” Astra Group companies. GOFLEET is available in greater Jakarta initially, with We also run Astra Digital Forums regularly, where we plans to roll out the programme to other cities and invite external experts from the likes of Microsoft, provinces in the near future. Facebook, Twitter and Google to share best practices Sejalan, meanwhile, is a social ride-sharing app that with us, and vice versa, followed by a Q&A session. facilitates carpooling. It is designed primarily for the Sharing expertise is also the focus of our Data Demo many people who drive from neighbouring cities such as Day, during which data experts from our various Depok, Bekasi and Tangerang to Jakarta every day for businesses talk about their projects and learnings. work. The app enables drivers to offer a seat in their car We also have a Digital Marketing Community where to fellow commuters from their home town. The driver our various content management, digital marketing, can share the costs of transport, and play a part in and social media teams come together to update us reducing traffic. Besides the work commute, the app is all on their projects and experiences – it’s a great popular for those planning long drives to other cities and way to collaborate and share knowledge. have room in their vehicle for ‘hitch-hiker’ passengers. Finally, Indonesian internet users today spend an average of eight hours and 36 minutes online every day – why do you think Indonesians love the internet so much? Yes, about 65% of the population – about 170 million Indonesians of all ages and in urban and rural areas – are online every day. But one reason why we have big numbers is the fact that we have a huge millennial population who make up about a third of all internet users and social media – sharing photos, videos, comments – is where they spend a lot of their time. Many also get their news from social media platforms only. YouTube is especially popular, and it is a channel we target a lot in our digital marketing. E-commerce is also big here and it makes sense as our country is massive, and some communities live a long way from city centres or malls. Chat apps such as WhatsApp are also popular. The final driver is the fact that internet data plans and devices are quite affordable now and embraced by everyone. GOFLEET provides driver-partners with a car, accident insurance and maintenance service at Astra-owned workshops.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 13 Front Runners
Virtual Lifestyle Bank livi Chief Executive Michael Wang (in foreground) to Launch in Hong Kong with the livi team.
The previous issue of Thistle announced a high-profile joint Several virtual banks are set to be launched in Hong Kong venture (JV) between Bank of China (BOC) Hong Kong, JD Digits, – what makes livi unique? and Jardines to launch a virtual bank called livi in Hong Kong. The expertise of our shareholders, a good mix of talents from Here, livi Chief Executive Michael Wang shares more about the different industries, excellent support from a partner network, progress of the project and how livi will make an impact. and resources from our backers are among livi’s significant What is a virtual bank and what is livi’s primary target market? advantages. Put these factors together and I think we bring a unique perspective and offering to help consumers rethink In simple terms, a virtual bank is branch-less as it’s totally how they bank and manage their finances. online. We want livi to be a lifestyle bank to meet the everyday needs of many people in Hong Kong – our mission is to help our What are some of the anticipated benefits for our retail businesses customers save smartly, spend consciously and live a lot more. in HK – and how do you plan to work together with them? Because our bank will be open all hours and available to anyone Jardines’ consumer businesses – including retail, F&B, hotels and who has a smartphone, you can – and should! – become a livi motors – will enjoy access to livi’s exciting products and services customer. Our products and services will have broad appeal that will help them better serve their customers. In addition, as and we hope to redefine what that means to banks in Hong Kong. Jardines businesses in Hong Kong have relationships with a deep In addition, an important part of our bank will be our small and and broad ecosystem of suppliers – particularly SME suppliers – medium-sized enterprises (SME) services, helping to grow Hong livi’s online solutions can enhance those interactions. Kong businesses with simple, easy-to-use financial services. What are the next major steps for the project team, and when What does each JV partner – BOC Hong Kong (Holdings) Limited, is livi expected to launch? JD Digits, and Jardines – bring to the table? We are working hard to develop the banking system with This project is incredibly lucky to have a powerful partnership of several major goals to achieve in the next few months, including established backers pushing it forward. Robust risk management developing a brand-new, secure banking system. We also want and banking expertise from BOC Hong Kong (Holdings) Limited, to deliver a seamless, easy-to-use app design and user the technology development capability from JD Digits, and the experience to match the everyday routines of customers. broad customer touchpoints offered by the Jardines network give We want to create an open bank that really makes an impact livi a unique competitive advantage in this brand-new industry. – if you are interested in participating in app testing or anything else to do with livi, please get in touch with the team!
14 The owners and developers of the project are Astaș Holding A.Ş Second Mandarin Oriental and Yapi & Yapi. This is the group’s third venture in Turkey with Property in Istanbul Astaș Holding A.Ş, owner of the group’s two other Turkish properties: the award-winning Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum and Istanbul’s exclusive Etiler central residential area is the location of Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul, which is scheduled Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s second luxury hotel in the city, to open in 2020. scheduled to open in 2022. One of the three towers of the property will house Mandarin Oriental Etiler, Istanbul, with 158 guest rooms and suites, and 16 serviced apartments. The others will house 251 luxurious Residences at Mandarin Oriental. “We are delighted to announce a second Mandarin Oriental property in Istanbul, together with an exciting luxury residential project. We look forward to extending further the group’s presence in one of the world’s most historic and vibrant cities,” said James Riley, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental. “Operating two complementary hotels in a single city is something that the group has already done successfully in Hong Kong and will soon do in London. We believe there is room for more than just one Mandarin Oriental hotel in certain select destinations around the world,” he added. The hotel will have three restaurants and bars, meeting spaces with outdoor areas for business and leisure events, a spa and fitness centre, and an indoor and outdoor pool.
Adrian Short, General Manager of C&C Myanmar said, “Since Cycle & Carriage Expands representing the brand in 2014, we have delivered some 2,000 Footprint in Myanmar Mazda vehicles, which attests to the confidence our customers have placed in the Mazda brand, its philosophy and drivability Cycle & Carriage (C&C) has expanded its presence in Myanmar of the vehicles.” with a new Mazda 3S facility in Yangon, as well as a second Mercedes-Benz Display Centre Opens in Mandalay Mercedes-Benz Display Centre in Mandalay. Following the launch of the first Mercedes-Benz 3S Autohaus in New Mazda 3S Facility in Yangon Yangon in March 2018, C&C opened a second Mercedes-Benz Following the establishment of the first Mazda showroom showroom in The Move Shopping Centre, Mingalar Mandalay, in Myanmar in 2014, C&C opened another Mazda facility in which launched in April. Yangon in March to reach more customers. The new The 255.5 sq. m. Mercedes-Benz Display Centre and showroom 1,060 sq. m. Mazda 3S facility boasts a showroom capacity of six boasts a contemporary design with exciting features such as the display vehicles and five work bays to provide industry-leading new Mercedes-Benz iShowroom, a three-vehicle showroom aftersales service. capacity and other services to provide customers the convenience Since Mazda’s introduction to the market, it has won four of a single-point hub. Myanmar Car of the Year awards and is now the fifth most popular C&C Automobile Myanmar Managing Director Aung Moe Kyaw said, brand in Myanmar, with a year-on-year growth rate of 15%. Mazda “We have witnessed significant changes in Mandalay as investors also ranks second in the Brand New Imported Vehicles sphere. are seeking opportunities beyond Yangon. With the opening of the Mercedes-Benz Mandalay Display Centre, we believe we can offer a vibrant sales experience to our discerning upper Myanmar Mercedes-Benz customers.” Big Growth Opportunity As the fifth largest country in ASEAN – with more than 50 million citizens – and over 500,000 four-wheeled privately registered vehicles currently, the auto sector growth opportunity in Myanmar is huge. New vehicle sales have doubled year-on-year and the government has introduced policies to try and reach the goal of more than one million new car sales per annum by 2033.
C&C now has seven facilities in Myanmar representing different marques and is well positioned to optimise growth opportunities in the country.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 15 Front Runners
The store showcases the latest and future concept of Mercedes- Mercedes me Lifestyle Store Benz models, with product concierges to organise test-drives in Comes to Chengdu person or via the MercedesmeStore WeChat account. Seamlessly integrating the retail components into the customer experience, Chengdu car enthusiasts and shoppers can now get an the store features Mercedes-Benz accessories and Mercedes me up-close and personal taste of the stylish Mercedes me store, merchandise, including localised products exclusively for the which features retail and food and beverage outlets, and China market, and new concept food and beverage destinations. an event space alongside the latest – and upcoming – Hungry visitors who enjoy fine cuisine can visit the Sifang Mercedes-Benz cars on display. Sanchuan restaurant, a multipurpose venue that showcases Located in the hip Taikoo Li shopping district in central Chengdu, Yun, Gui, Chuan, Yu-style dishes. Thirsty customers, meanwhile, next to the famous Daci Temple and close to bustling Chunxi Road, can sip local and international craft beers at Brew Haus while the 1,278 sq. m. store opened in spring with a unique line-up, enjoying live entertainment. offering guests a bespoke lifestyle venue to experience The Chengdu Mercedes me store is the first to open in south- the Mercedes-Benz brand through luxury hospitality. west China. It follows the successful launch of similar Combining elements of food and beverage, retail flagship stores in Beijing and Shanghai, with more and automotive, the new Mercedes me store expected to land in other parts of China this year. has a clearly defined customer journey with multiple touchpoints providing personalised experiences to its customers.
The Mercedes me store in the Taikoo Li district is adjacent to the Daci Temple and bordered by the high-traffic Chunxi Road – a prime central location in Chengdu.
Schindler Vietnam Ltd was one of the first foreign-owned elevator Schindler Vietnam companies to begin operating in Vietnam, in 1995. Daily Breaks Ground for operations include importing, installing and maintaining Schindler elevators and escalators. In 1998, Schindler opened its own Ho Chi Minh Factory factory in Vietnam, which produces brackets, beams and builder’s elevators for both local and export purposes. Earlier this year a ground-breaking ceremony for the Schindler Vietnam Factory project was held at the Hiep Phuoc Industrial Park, Nha Be District, Ho Chi Minh City. To meet demand in a fast-growing elevator market, the new 10,000 sq. m. factory is expected to open for production in October 2019. The factory will be outfitted with state-of-the-art machinery, including laser cutting machines, CNC machines, and a shot-blasting machine. In addition, the factory has been designed and built to reduce waste and energy use. The ceremony was attended by Chief Executive Officer of Jardine Schindler Group Jujudhan Jena, General Director of Schindler Vietnam Ta Huy Vu, factory manager Duong Quy Suu, the management team of Schindler Vietnam, the board of directors of Hiep Phuoc Industrial Park Joint Stock Company, Director of Construction of Phan Vu Investment Corporation Lu Trieu Duong, Director of SEAS Consultant Tran Xuan Ho and other esteemed guests. Directors of Schindler Vietnam, board of directors of Hiep Phuoc Industrial Park Joint Stock Company, Director of Construction of Phan Vu Construction Investment Corporation, and a director of SEAS Consultant at the ground-breaking ceremony.
16 Javanese Mountains Inspire New Toll Road Rest Area Project
Astra Property Group and Astra Infra recently announced a partnership with PT Jasamarga Properti and PT Sarana Pembangunan Jawa Tengah to build and manage the Tempat Istirahat dan Pelayanan (TIP) rest area on the Semarang-Solo toll road. Set to open in 2021, the RESTA Pendopo 456 rest pavilion will consist of five buildings in two locations set over three ha. of land. With design elements influenced by traditional Javanese architecture and five mountains in Central Java – Mount Merapi, Mount Merbabu, Mount Sindoro, Mount Sumbing, and Mount Ungaran – it is expected to be one of the most striking TIP From left: Director of Technical and Operational of PT Trans Marga Jateng, Ali Zainal Abidin; Director of Astra, Bambang Widjanarko Santoso; Semarang Regent Expert facilities in Indonesia. Staff, Sukaton Purtomo Priyatmo, SH, MM; Central Java Regional Secretary, Sri Puryono Karto Soedarmo; Salatiga Mayor, Yulianto SE, MM; President Director of PT Sarana A recent ground-breaking ceremony for the project was attended Pembangunan Jawa Tengah, Adi Fitra and Director of PT Jasa Marga Properti, Dian Takdir Bardsyah commemorate the ground-breaking ceremony of RESTA Pendopo 456. by the Central Java Regional Secretary, Sri Puryono Karto Soedarmo; Director of Astra, Bambang Widjanarko Santoso and Director of PT Trans Marga Jateng, Novianto Dwi Wibowo. Other guests included Director of PT Jasamarga Properti, Dian Takdir Badrsyah and Adi Fitra, President Director of PT Sarana Pembangunan Jawa Tengah. Asya Project in Eastern Jakarta in Progress Asya, a major residential property in Cakung, East Jakarta is currently being built by PT Astra International Tbk through PT Astra Modern Land, a joint-venture company. It is a city-scale project with a strong eco-friendly influence offering quality housing for a broad range of homebuyers. Set around a 15 ha. lake area, the property will include a host of modern design features. Asya is not far from Jalan Tol Lingkar Luar Jakarta, also known as the Jakarta Outer Ring Road or JORR, which connects to other major roadways, including the Jakarta Inner Ring Road and the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road.
Thailand’s Love of Coffee Leads Opportunity
Thais love coffee. Although per-person consumption is about 300 cups a year – compared to 400 in Japan and 600 in Europe – demand for lattes, cappuccinos, espressos and more is rising by an average of 15% per year throughout Thailand. This robust demand is fuelling expansive growth plans in the sector, and Maxim’s Group, a long-term strategic partner of Starbucks, recently announced a joint venture (JV) with its Thai partner to operate and develop Starbucks retail stores in Thailand. The JV combines the market expertise of the local partner and the deep understanding of the Starbucks culture and brand that Maxim’s Group has developed over 19 years.
Global brand, local flavour: the Starbucks outlet at Langsuan, Bangkok. Moving forward, the two parties aim to continue to deliver the unique Starbucks experience to Thai customers and accelerate growth in the country. Bangkok’s Convent Road was the location of the first Starbucks store to open in Thailand in 1998, and there are 372 stores nationwide today. Since Maxim’s Group and Starbucks began their relationship in 2000 in Hong Kong, they have enjoyed consistently strong growth and there are more than 400 Starbucks stores in Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore today.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 17 Front Runners
optimum storage positions in cool rooms were other initiatives IATA CEIV Fresh-certified is launched. Already-stringent hygiene and pest-control practices Another World First for Hactl have been tightened further and suppliers have been instructed on what they must do to comply with the new standard. Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) celebrated About CEIV Fresh a global first in March when it was named one of the first two cargo handling agents in the world to receive the new Growing global demand for fresh food throughout the year International Air Transport Association (IATA) Centre of required an update in air transportation guidelines to standardise Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Fresh accreditation. time and temperature management to minimise food loss. Given this, the CEIV Fresh programme was launched by IATA to raise the The accreditation is the result of Airport Authority Hong Kong’s bar in managing and handling perishable logistics. It is designed initiative to make the airport the world’s first CEIV Fresh hub. to improve staff competency through training, ensure food safety Hactl Chief Executive Wilson Kwong said teamwork and a and prevent waste along the supply chain through quality and risk commitment to world-class operating standards were key drivers management controls. of this success, when he accepted the certificate at IATA’s World Cargo Symposium in Singapore in March. He added, “CEIV Fresh certification is very useful to benchmark the quality and standard of an organisation, and Hactl applauds both IATA’s initiative in driving the adoption of CEIV Fresh throughout the industry, and Hong Kong International Airport’s leadership of this project.” The Road to Accreditation Hactl’s quest for CEIV Fresh accreditation began in late 2018 when key staff attended an IATA training programme. Changes were also made to facilities, such as the designation of a new Fresh Lane to accelerate the unloading of perishable cargo to place in temperature-controlled storage, or for collection by customers. Four critical control points were also identified and enhanced. The use of thermal dollies to maintain optimum temperatures was one upgrade. Segregating perishable commodities through dedicated truck docks and the mapping and visual marking of Hactl’s Fresh Lane includes thermal dollies to maintain optimum temperatures on the ramp.
JEC Thailand Wins Contracts for Eco-Friendly The Forestias Project
Jardine Engineering Corporation (JEC) Thailand was awarded a number of contracts for The Forestias project in Thailand including the supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the air-conditioning and ventilation system, the sanitary and fire protection system, as well as the electrical and communication systems. The Forestias is a nature-integrated, mixed-use The Forestias is the world’s first mixed-use multigenerational lifestyle project to establish and incorporate a large forest ecosystem. development located in Bangna, Bangkok with a total area of 480,000 sq. m. It includes a forest landscape, office buildings and a medical complex, as well as a variety of community developments such as residences, a community space, a six-star boutique hotel, and a four-star business hotel and serviced apartments. The project incorporates green building technology in its design and operation systems, and aims to achieve a Gold rating in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.
18 Martabe Gold Mine Visit Marked by Local Tradition
Astra’s Board of Commissioners and Directors paid a visit to Martabe Gold Mine in North Sumatra, Indonesia, in March to observe mining operations and the gold-making process on a day infused with local tradition. United Tractors, a subsidiary of Astra, acquired a majority stake in the Martabe Mine in 2018. PT Agincourt Resources (PTAR), the operator of the mine, hosted the entourage, which included Commissioners of Astra Alex Newbigging, John Witt, Jeremy Parr, President Director of Astra Prijono Sugiarto, Directors of Astra Gidion Hasan, Gita Tiffany Boer, Chief of Corporate Affairs of Astra Pongki Pamungkas, and several Astra Executives. A presentation by PTAR was followed by a speech by Mr Newbigging, and tours of the site including the observation deck to view the entire mine field, which covers 1,303 sq. km., making it one of the largest in Indonesia. Among the highlights of the visit was a Mangulosi ceremony – the presenting of traditional Ulos cloth – to the guests of honour. Shake Shack Takes Mr Newbigging, Mr Sugiarto, Mr Hasan, President Director of PAMA Frans Kesuma (serving as Director of Astra at the General Meeting Shanghai by Storm of Shareholders in April), Mulyadi Sutio, President Director of PT Agincourt Resources, and Vice President of PT Agincourt Resources Tim Duffy also signed an inscription to commemorate ‘The Pouring of 2,000,000 of Gold & 15,000,000 Oz of Silver.’
Shake Shack shook up Shanghai’s food scene when it opened its doors in the city’s hip Xintiandi district earlier this year. The China debut of the cult New York burger restaurant attracted long lines of customers – braving cold temperatures – to get a first bite of the famous Shack Burger, Shroom Burger and other delicious NYC delights. Brought to Shanghai by the Maxim’s Group in partnership with Shake Shack, the restaurant furthers Maxim’s mission to bring fresh, exciting dining experiences to customers in China and other parts of Asia. Since its big splash opening, Shake Shack Shanghai has seen brisk business, with Astra’s Board of Commissioners and Directors arrived at Batang Toru, South Tapanuli. customers indulging in Shake Shack classics as well as Shanghai-inspired menu items such as the Strawberry Yu(zu) Garden Shake and the On the Bund dessert.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 19 Front Runners
PT Toyota Astra Introduces New Hybrid Electrified SUV
By 2025, 20% of all cars produced in Indonesia are expected to be electric vehicles (EVs). This is one of the key benchmarks set by the Indonesian government, which aims to establish Indonesia as a leading EV manufacturing hub in Asia. To encourage the growth of the EV market, the government is also considering new initiatives and new regulations for EV owners to receive low-emission incentives. To get ahead of the electrification drive, more EVs and eco-friendly cars are being launched including PT Toyota-Astra Motor’s (TAM) Toyota sport utility vehicle (SUV) in Indonesia: the Toyota C-HR Hybrid. Targeting SUV enthusiasts: the Toyota C-HR Hybrid was recently launched in Jakarta. Unveiled at a launch ceremony in Jakarta on 22 April, the Toyota C-HR Hybrid targets crossover SUV enthusiasts seeking an energy-efficient, eco-friendly option. It is powered by a 2ZR-FXE engine – featuring an internal combustion and electric motor – that can produce 100 PS and 36 PS power respectively. Prior to this release, other green-friendly vehicles released by TAM include the Toyota Prius hatchback, Camry sedan hybrid, and the premium MPV class of Alphard Hybrid.
New ShopSmart! Store Brings Express Shopping to KL
Time-challenged residents in Kuala Lumpur’s Taman Melawati suburb are embracing the faster, more convenient shopping experience provided by Dairy Farm Malaysia’s new-concept ShopSmart! mini-mart store. Opened in March, the ShopSmart! store allows for greater flexibility and convenience, and reduced shopping time thanks to its innovative fast bill payment, mobile top-up and cash-out services. The store stocks a wide range of fresh foods and produce, goods and products, plus delicious ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook food selections. The ready-to-go food options are proving to be a popular attraction for store visitors, and are helping to drive record sales for the store. Given its success, more ShopSmart! stores are expected to open this year. The concept provides a new shopping experience complementing Dairy Farm’s established supermarket and hypermarket store formats.
20 7-SIGNATURE: Dim Sum Redefined
7-Eleven Hong Kong has developed a new in-house product range named 7-SIGNATURE Dim Sum. It transforms a quintessentially local food, dim sum, into a tasty ready-to-eat (RTE) offering that is easily available. Wholehearted, Simple, Tasty Four suppliers were chosen through a rigorous selection process using Current Situation Analysis (CSA), to expand the dim sum product range from six to 14 stock-keeping units (SKUs). To ensure an authentic taste, each bite-sized product is based on a traditional recipe, and launched only after passing a stringent customer taste test. Easily accessible in over 800 stores, the product range is sold in easy-open packaging that is suitable for reheating in the microwave. 7-Eleven Dim Sum Truck To promote the product range, a 7-Eleven Dim Sum Truck visited Customers were delighted at the taste of 7-SIGNATURE Dim Sum. 13 districts in Hong Kong in the span of eight days, attracting media buzz and many customers. Putting a creative twist on the yum-cha experience of using a dim sum trolley in traditional Chinese restaurants, the intention of the truck promotion was to create awareness of the 14 different dim sum SKUs available in store. To draw traffic to the stores and heighten social media engagement, customers were invited to like the campaign’s social posts and tag friends to get a free 7-SIGNATURE Dim Sum coupon. Celebrating the Success The campaign generated high awareness of 7-SIGNATURE Dim Sum in terms of availability and tastiness. Over 60% of customers agreed that 7-SIGNATURE Dim Sum is wholeheartedly prepared, simple and tasty. As a result, sales exceeded 62% and 68%, in terms of quantity and value respectively.
Cycle & Carriage Debuts Kia Niro Electric Vehicle in Singapore
This June, Cycle & Carriage (C&C) launched Kia’s first electric vehicle (EV) in Singapore: the Niro EV. A fully battery-powered version of Kia’s Niro Hybrid crossover, the five-seater, five-door EV has a 64-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery that can power it for 455km (on a single charge), making it one of the best-performing EVs in Singapore in terms of range. Compared to a similar combustion-engine car, an EV is significantly cheaper to run, halving fuel and maintenance costs in many cases. Given the cost and efficiency benefits, the Niro is expected to generate strong interest from local car buyers as well as corporate customers and fleet vehicle The Kia Niro EV recently made its debut in Singapore. operators. Commercial customers are the initial target market for Niro before the model is made available for sale to private buyers in the third quarter of 2019. This introduction of an EV has not only augmented Kia as both a reliable manufacturer and electrification- ready, but also sets the stage for C&C to bring in more eco-friendly vehicles.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 21 Celebrating Success
Multiple Accolades for Cycle & Carriage
The Centre of Perfect Scores for Mercedes-Benz Body & Paint Competence in Malaysia. This means C&C Bintang has Competence certification provides Centres in Singapore and Malaysia the largest Centre of Competence network in Malaysia, customers with with certified facilities in both the northern and assurance that their Cycle & Carriage (C&C) was proud to receive the Mercedes-Benz is in southern regions as well as the Klang Valley. good hands. Mercedes-Benz Body & Paint Centre of Competence In Singapore, Pandan Loop is currently the only certification for two of its service centres in 2018. certified Mercedes-Benz Body Care & Paint Centre. Both the Mercedes-Benz Body Care & Paint Centre in Pandan Loop, Singapore, and the centre in Batu Doing us Proud at Kia World Service Advisor Caves, Malaysia achieved a perfect score of 100%, Competition 2019 marking them as among the highest-ranking C&C also encourages its staff to participate in Mercedes-Benz service centres globally. competitions to benchmark their skills against their The Centre of Competence certification involves counterparts. At the recent Kia World Service Advisor a stringent evaluation of the Mercedes-Benz workshop Competition 2019 held in Seoul, Korea, Jack Tan Juan equipment for both body repair and paint areas, Chuo did C&C proud when he emerged as the winner auxiliary material, repair process, quality of workforce of Regional Best Performance award. and administration practices. The certification assures Like many of our service advisors who put in hours customers that their vehicles are restored to global of time and energy acquiring skills and knowledge standards set by Mercedes-Benz. of the products, Mr Tan’s competency in terms of With C&C Bintang’s Johor Bahru and Bukit Tengah the Kia service spirit, advisor work process and facilities having obtained the certification in 2017, field knowledge helped him to ace the written the Batu Caves outlet is now its third Centre of and practical tests.
22 Astra Strengthens its CSR Leadership Reputation
Astra’s reputation as a CSR leader in Indonesia has strengthened, with a prestigious accolade presented to the company at the Global CSR Summit & Awards 2019, held in Malaysia in April. At the ceremony, hosted by The Pinnacle Group International, Astra won the Best Country Award for Overall CSR Excellence: Best in Indonesia (Platinum) for Sustainable Contribution in Health, Education, Environment and Entrepreneurship. The ceremony was attended by Beny Priyatna Kusumah, Astra Group Support Department Head, Environmental and Social Responsibility Division. At the event, Mr Kusumah shared more about Astra’s community development programmes at a roundtable discussion covering the importance of CSR for major corporate organisations today. Astra’s healthcare programme for malnourished toddlers in the Gorontalo Province.
Hactl Celebrates in Munich and Hong Kong
A global award and an accolade for environmental excellence were added to the Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) trophy cabinet in June. For the seventh time in 13 years, Hactl was named Air Cargo Handling Agent of the Year at the World Air Cargo Awards 2019, after an online vote by global readers of Air Cargo Week magazine. The award was presented to Hactl Chief Executive Wilson Kwong at an award ceremony in Munich, part of the biennial Air Cargo Europe exhibition and conference. “We thank all those who took the time and trouble to vote for us, and we are truly grateful for their continuing support. We pledge to carry on earning their respect by working hard, investing, and driving innovation and continuous improvement,” said Mr Kwong. Hactl was also the winner of the Best Green Air Cargo Terminal Operator award at the 2019 Asian Freight, Logistics and Supply Hactl and CLP Engineering Limited staged a ceremony in June to celebrate the commissioning of the SuperTerminal1 roof-top solar farm. The system is an important Chain Awards in Hong Kong. Launched in 2015, the awards milestone in Hactl’s long-running ‘Green Terminal’ project. recognise leadership, consistency in service quality, innovation, customer relationship management and reliability as judged by the 15,000 readers of Asia Cargo News magazine. The award was accepted by Mr Kwong who paid tribute to the Hactl team. “On behalf of my team, I thank all those who supported us with their votes, and I dedicate the award to the wonderful people of Hactl whose constant efforts and devotion to duty have enabled us to prove that it is possible to operate in an environmentally responsible manner while still providing an efficient, professional and competitive service.”
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 23 Celebrating Success
Neil Williamson, JMG Chief Executive Officer, added, “Today Jardine Motors Group there is almost a 50/50 split between men and women when Women Receive it comes to the job applications we receive. I believe this is down to the fantastic initiatives we have in place both through our National Recognition external partnership and internally. I would like to give massive congratulations to our 13 women who have been a part of us for Achievements spearheading change within the automotive industry. I hope it inspires women all over the world to consider a career in such Thirteen outstanding female colleagues from Jardine Motors an exciting sector and environment.” Group (JMG) have been named in Autocar’s Top 100 Rising Stars, affirming JMG’s status as a leading dealership group. Autocar’s Great British Women awards celebrate the female rising stars of the automotive industry, with the goal of inspiring more women to consider a career in the sector. The women in the Top 100 Rising Stars list were selected from a wide range of areas across the automotive industry, covering Sales, Aftersales and Workshop, through to PR and Communications, People Development and Operations. Not only did JMG have 13 colleagues named in the Top 100 Rising Stars list, two of these, Nev Hart and Charlotte Dafe, were named winners of the People Development and Aftersales and Workshop categories respectively. The other 11 JMG staff were Victoria Walton, Louise Holt (Sales), Claire Furey, Alison Fowler (Marketing), Amanda Mogan-Wilson (PR and Communications), Tina Shakespeare, Anna Houldsworth, Naomi Day (Operations), Claire Lomax, Cate Parker (Aftersales and Workshop) and Julie Lang (People Development). Clare Martin, JMG HR Director, said, “It is such an overwhelming achievement to see 13 of our ladies cement their position as the leading women in Autocar’s Top 100 Rising Stars. It is our hope that by shining a spotlight both on those who have reached the top, and those we believe to be the industry’s brightest rising stars, more women will consider the rich, exciting careers that From left: Nev Hart and Charlotte Dafe, who were named winners of the People Development and Aftersales and Workshop categories respectively, with JMG Chief are open to them.” Executive Officer Neil Williamson.
JEC Apprentice Wins Outstanding Apprentice Award
Jardine Engineering Corporation (JEC) apprentice Cheung Chi Wing was recently named the 2018 Outstanding Apprentice by the Hong Kong Vocational Training Council, topping a list of 240 contestants from various sectors. Mr Cheung, an air conditioning craft apprentice, won the accolade on the back of his outstanding performance during his training. Having joined JEC in 2015, he completed his apprenticeship training in February this year. As well as receiving the accolade, Mr Cheung participated in a seven-day exchange tour to Abu Dhabi and Dubai in March – with 15 other outstanding apprentices – to visit a host of institutions and facilities including Masdar City, a low-carbon city in Abu Dhabi developed on the three pillars of economic, social and environmental sustainability.
24 Multiple Wins for Astra Companies at Contact Center Excellence Award 2019
A Toyota customer service agent answering customers’ questions about products and aftersales through the Toyota Hotline number 1-500-315.
At the Contact Center Service Excellence Award Astra Life. “We hope that all the services that (CCSEA) 2019 held in Jakarta, Astra companies Hello Astra Life provides can make customers Asuransi Astra, Astra Aviva Life, PT Astra Honda love their lives more and enjoy the present moment,” Motor and PT Toyota Astra Motor scooped up said President Director Astra Life, Auddie Wiranata. multiple awards for exceptional customer service. PT Astra Honda Motor also took home awards in four Five awards went to Asuransi Astra for Life & Health categories, including 24-hour Call Center, Customer Insurance & Car Insurance, Customer Service E-mail Service Email and Service Excellence in social media Centers, Twitter Service Excellence and Facebook services, for the Astra Honda Care Facebook and Service Excellence. “High customer expectations Twitter accounts. provide motivation for our team to always provide PT Toyota Astra Motor held its top spot for the eighth a fast, responsive, and solution-based service year running, crowned Automotive Company with Best that will raise trust,” said Vice President Health Call Center Service at CCSEA. “We have committed to Operation of Asuransi Astra, Bobby Ardi. deliver the best service to our customers. We are Astra Aviva Life (Astra Life) was graded ‘Exceptional’ grateful that various external parties appreciated our in the Life and Health Insurance category for the effort in realising the goal,” said Vice President fourth time, for its one-stop contact service Hello Director PT Toyota Astra Motor, Henry Tanoto.
Siam City Cement Bags Award
The Thailand Green and Smart Mining Award 2019 was awarded to Siam City Cement (SCCC) in February. Jardine Cycle & Carriage holds 25.5% of SCCC. Amornsak Torot, Senior Vice President of Saraburi Operations, received the award on behalf of the company, and also gave a keynote speech on the topic ‘New Step: From Policy to Implementation’. At the event, SCCC also showcased its initiatives in sustainable mining management. The Thailand Green and Smart Mining Awards is organised by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. It is awarded to the enterprises that Siam City Cement participates in ecosystem rehabilitation activities show exemplary sustainable mining practices with around the Siam City Cement Quarry in Saraburi province. good governance and care for the environment.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 25 For Our Future Walk Up, Voice Up
Ascending 49 floors (947 steps) in five minutes and becomes visible and we can start to have 48 seconds earned Yui Sheung Yeung the Men’s conversations about the various aspects Individual title in the 2019 Walk Up Jardine House of mental health,” said Mr Maung. (WUJH) charity event in Hong Kong on 28 April. The winning team for the Team Relay (Women’s) Close behind, Leanne Szeto’s climb time of six title – the IKEA team comprising Nic Wong, Hayley On Mental Health minutes and 15 seconds won her the Women’s Hau, Anna Reibring, Melody Lee, and Carmen Lam from the Jardine Individual (49th Floor) race title. Both were among – also shared their race tactics, and why they are Ambassadors the fastest movers in the 34th annual WUJH, which big supporters of WUJH and MINDSET. attracted more than 500 runners and walkers from “It’s important to have a good start position, Jardine Matheson Group companies, business make a fast start and not get too nervous. And associates, their families, students, partner because we wanted to keep our championship, non-governmental organisations and people we just kept running and running,” said Ms Nic recovering from mental illnesses. Wong, adding, “We were very happy because we In addition to the 49-floor race to the top of ran faster than last year.” Jardine House, the 2019 WUJH programme “It’s very important to raise awareness about included team relays, a fun race, and a family mental health because Hong Kong people are walk to attract participants of all ages. Nine-year- busy and don’t always have time to think about old Isobel Maung and her sister Eloise, aged important issues. We love this event and will seven, were some of the youngest this year as definitely be back next year,” said Ms Lee. they joined their parents, Sherry Wong and Lionel Maung in the family event. After the walk, the Voice Up family shared their thoughts about race tactics WUJH participants and supporters raised and the MINDSET programme. HK$3.4 million (US$433,400) to support MINDSET, a registered charity founded by the On race tactics, Isobel said, “Don’t get too excited Jardine Matheson Group to provide mental health and run too quickly at the start or you will have no support in Hong Kong. Under the Voice Up theme energy to walk the last steps. Or you could start of the 2019 WUJH, the event also included slower and then run up the last stairs.” presentations and displays highlighting the “Regarding mental health, I don’t think it’s talked importance of speaking up as the first step to about enough but through events like this, it recovery for people with mental health issues.
The IKEA team won the Team Relay (Women’s) title with a record time of four minutes and 29 seconds.
26 Students Share their Key Learnings from Health-in-Mind Programme
Plays, videos, presentations and exhibitions were some of the creative ways more than 100 student advocates participating in the MINDSET Health-in-Mind (HIM) programme shared their experiences and learnings from the 24-month campaign. The project has focused on raising awareness of mental health issues in young people, and providing them with the tools to manage challenges. “The programme has offered me a fruitful and meaningful learning experience. We have not only acquired the knowledge of organising community services, but more importantly, we have understood more about people in recovery by interacting with them,” said Yeung Pui Yiu, HIM Outstanding Student of Ting Ka Outstanding students from the 10 participating secondary schools celebrated their success at the HIM Finale Ceremony. Ping Secondary School. Booths showcasing HIM milestones were also organised by students, partners from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and Jardine Ambassadors (JAs) from MINDSET at the HIM finale event, held at the Rotunda in Hong Kong on 29 June. To applaud their efforts in person were a host of esteemed guests including Y K Pang, Deputy Chairman of MINDSET and Dr Tony Ko Pat-sing, Director of Cluster Services, Hospital Authority. Other guests included the Executive Committee members of MINDSET, teachers from 10 participating schools, partnering NGOs and JAs. The event included the presentation of certificates to outstanding HIM students. They were also awarded summer traineeship opportunities in Jardine Matheson Group companies to gain valuable on-the-job experience and career advice and guidance.
Talent Show Stars Shine in Hong Kong
A sign-language song performed by Ms Kwok from the Fu Hong Society, Sunrise Centre, won the hearts and votes of the audience at the MINDSET Talent Show held in Hong Kong in May. Ms Kwok, 12 other performing teams and their supporters competed for various awards at the Talent Show, which was the climax of a new MINDSET training assistance programme launched this year. Under the programme, individuals recovering from mental illness had the opportunity to apply for a subsidy to receive training to perform in the talent show. On the big day, performers showcased their skills in singing, dancing, playing music and puppetry on the Y Studio stage. “The activity encouraged people in recovery to express themselves and showcase their talents in front of the crowd,” Ms Kwok from the Fu Hong Society, Sunrise Centre, performed a sign-language song with said Carol Yiu, Jardine Ambassador. “It was also a great stage her tailor-made costume. to build their confidence and all-round social skills,” she added. The show was watched by more than 150 guests including people in recovery from eight non-governmental organisations, Executive Committee Members of MINDSET, Jardine Ambassadors and their friends. The most passionate fans came from the Mental Health Association of Hong Kong, who won the award for the most popular cheering team.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 27 For Our Future
Initiatives Showcased at Singapore Mental Health Conference
President of Singapore Halimah Yacob (front row, fourth from right) and MINDSET Singapore Chief Executive Officer Jeffery Tan (fifth from left) visited MINDSET’s booth at the Singapore Mental Health Conference 2019.
One in seven residents in Singapore has suffered from spoke at a keynote session on the theme of Recovery a mental health issue in his or her lifetime, according to Perspectives. Mr Tan spoke about the importance research led by Singapore’s Institute of Mental Health. of providing opportunities for reintegration, as well as MINDSET’s efforts in providing employment This relatively high proportion was one of the opportunities within and outside the Group, influencing factors that prompted a call from the encouraging other corporates to follow suit. President of Singapore, Halimah Yacob, to make 2019 a year to focus on mental health issues and MINDSET initiatives include job training, and placement support initiatives. opportunities within the Group for people recovering from mental health issues – 40 job placements were In the corporate world, Jardines – through the MINDSET created in 2018 in Singapore. programme – is playing a leading role in trying to reduce the stigma around mental illness and encouraging more Jardine Ambassadors also spoke about MINDSET people to seek assistance. Providing employment initiatives and milestones at a MINDSET booth at the opportunities for individuals with mental health conference that was visited by President Halimah. challenges is another goal of the programme. Under the theme of Empowerment for Resilience and Progress on both fronts was highlighted at the Recovery, the 2019 conference enabled mental health Singapore Mental Health Conference 2019, where sector representatives to share learnings on how to MINDSET Singapore Chief Executive Officer, Jeffery Tan, better serve the mental health community.
Workshops Focus on Job Skills and Mindfulness
Helping people who are recovering from mental health challenges reintegrate into the community, and the workplace, was the focus of MINDSET workshops held in Hong Kong throughout June and July. Back to Work Over two sessions, human resources representatives from various Group companies shared advice on job applications and interview techniques with more than 30 individuals supported by Baptist Oi Kwan Social Service and Caritas in the summer. Coffee and Mindfulness A Mindful Coffee Making Workshop hosted by Gammon employees at the Gammon Technology Park demonstrated creative ways to meditate, and live in the moment, during everyday activities such as making a cup of coffee. Workshop participants were taught to Colleagues from Gammon focus on enjoying the simple experience of coffee making and practised drinking, blocking out other distractions. mindfulness while making coffee.
28 Ninth Cohort of Jardine Ambassadors Prepare to Drive Programme Forward
MINDSET recently welcomed a new batch of Jardine Ambassadors (JAs) who will run and develop initiatives over the next two years. Training and onboarding sessions covering a host of topics related to mental health issues were run for JAs before they started their ambassadorial role. A two-day Mental Health First Aid course was one recent session where the newest batch of 23 JAs learned how to recognise the signs and symptoms of various mental health issues. Learning how to engage and interact with individuals recovering from mental health challenges was the focus of another class. Visits to Institute of Mental Health, Singapore Anglican Community Services and the MINDSET Learning Hub (a collaboration with the Singapore Association for Mental Health) were also organised. In addition, throughout the year, JAs will attend leadership training sessions to support their career development. The ninth cohort of JAs was appointed at the annual Jardine
Ambassadors Appreciation and Appointment Ceremony held JAs visited the MINDSET Learning Hub as part of their orientation of mental health in Singapore in January. facilities and partners in Singapore. MINDSET Singapore Chairman Alex Newbigging said, “Our JAs are a group of dynamic and innovative executives who push the boundaries to come up with new ideas to enhance the programmes.”
“Our longstanding presence in the region is underpinned by many Supporting ASEAN’s valued partnerships that we have built over the years. Our Best and Brightest partnerships are not only about business opportunities, but also to create positive social impact.” To celebrate its 120th anniversary this year, Jardine Cycle & Carriage Cycle & Carriage Steps Up Support for Vocational Education (JC&C) announced the launch of the JC&C Scholarship. With a in Malaysia three-decade tradition of supporting higher education, the Scholarship reaffirms the group’s commitment to grow alongside In addition, Cycle & Carriage Bintang recently launched a study Southeast Asia in both business and community development. grant for young Malaysians in need of financial support to study in vocational institutions and pursue a career in Malaysia’s Under the Scholarship, undergraduate students pursuing degrees automotive sector. Five outstanding students will receive an across a broad range of disciplines in Singapore, Indonesia, annual bursary of up to RM5,000 (US$1,200) to fund up to three Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar will have their tuition years of study and stand to gain valuable work experience fees sponsored through long-term endowments and donations. through paid internship opportunities. Partner universities are National University of Singapore, Universitas Indonesia, University of Malaya, Vietnam National University, Chulalongkorn University and University of Yangon. The first intake of students commenced in August, based on selection criteria such as academic performance, high commitment to the performance of public duties, strong community involvement and household income. In the next 10 years, about 70 Southeast Asian undergraduates will receive the JC&C Scholarship. “By improving access to education and working together with our partner universities, our aim is to help build stronger and more prosperous communities across the region. The JC&C Scholarship also reflects our investment strategy – long-term and focused on the development of Southeast Asia,” said Alex Newbigging, JC&C Group Managing Director. Ben Keswick, Chairman of JC&C, and Hsieh Fu Hua, Chairman of the NUS Board of Trustees, commemorating the JC&C Scholarship with a six-crest plaque from National University of Singapore.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 29 For Our Future
Hong Kong Colleagues Urged to Go Green Inspired by World Environment Day, more than 70 colleagues from the Jardine House and Devon House offices in Hong Kong joined forces to kick off the Go Green programme on 14 June. At the launch event at Jardine House, they pledged to commit to the 3Rs – reduce, reuse and recycle – in their respective offices and encourage their colleagues to do the same. A Green Team, comprising 17 representatives from Jardine House and Devon House, will lead the 3R initiatives with support from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), which will recommend the corporate sustainability best practices and programmes that are most suited for the company. Monica Lo, advisor of the Green Team, said, “Changing our behaviours
is never easy, but the goal of the Green Team is to encourage and The Green Team at Jardine House. inspire colleagues to make the 3Rs a regular part of our lives in the office and at home to spread the message even further.” Speaking at the event, Jeremy Parr, Group General Counsel, said more collaboration projects – bringing together Group companies – will be introduced over time to build a strong sustainability culture and develop programmes to make a significant difference. 3Rs in the Office Recycling bins for paper and single-use plastics have been 3 introduced at Jardine House to start, with 3R-related workshops Rs and other activities in the pipeline. Colleagues can also expect news updates with green tips and 3R progress reports. “Every action matters, even tiny changes, and if we work together we can produce outcomes that will positively impact our lives today, and for the next generation to come,” said Ms Lo.
Improving Access to Education in Cambodia
30 In the last five years, around 60% of Polman Astra graduates Astra’s New Campus have been hired by Astra; the remainder have found employment for Vocational Education in other industries, continued their studies, or set out as entrepreneurs. Since 2009, Astra has offered full scholarships Earlier this year, Politeknik Manufaktur Astra (Polman Astra) to 35% of new students in Polman Astra each year. A total of 681 celebrated the ground-breaking of Polman Astra Delta Silicon students have received these grants. Campus at the Delta Silicon II Industrial Estate in Cikarang, Bekasi Polman Astra Delta Silicon campus is expected to strengthen the Regency, West Java. The event reflects Astra’s tangible contribution spirit of Astra to contribute further in the development of vocational to the improvement of vocational education in Indonesia. education, in line with Astra’s goal to prosper with the nation. The ceremony, held on 10 May, was attended by Indonesian Minister of Research, Technology and Higher Education Mohamad Nasir and the Minister of Industry Airlangga Hartarto, accompanied by Astra President Director Prijono Sugiarto. Since 1995, Astra has been supporting the development of Polman Astra under Yayasan Astra Bina Ilmu (YABI) as a higher vocational education institution in the technology field, focusing on automotive and natural resources. “The new Polman Astra campus at Delta Silicon Industrial Estate is expected to develop better programme portfolios, new study programmes as well as programmes for competency certifications, such as the newly inaugurated Astra Automotive Meister certification that has since become the first German Meister certification programme in Asia,” said Mr Sugiarto at the ceremony.
The new site is an expansion of the current Polman Astra campus From left: President Director of Astra Prijono Sugiarto; Indonesian Minister of Industry located in Sunter, North Jakarta. Designed to be a ‘green campus’, Airlangga Hartarto; Minister of Research, Technology and Higher Education Mohamad Nasir; and Director of Astra Johannes Loman at the presentation of the Polman Astra the campus is slated to cover an area of five hectares, with Delta Silicon Campus construction plan. 47,000 sq. m. of that allotted to facilities including classrooms, laboratories, workshops, a teaching factory and a student dorm.
Providing learning opportunities for all children in Cambodia – Speaking about the importance of the programme, Mr Beynon especially those living in impoverished rural and border areas – is the said, “The children of Cambodian farmers living in remote border prime objective of the ACLEDA-Jardines Education Foundation (AJEF). areas with Thailand and Vietnam frequently lack access to a basic education due to factors such as logistical inaccessibility and a A significant milestone was celebrated on 12 July with the opening lack of resources. Providing basic weatherproof primary school of the Kork Sangke Primary School in Oddar Meanchey province. It is buildings to support communities in remote rural areas is the the first school to be funded and opened under the AJEF programme. initial focus for the Foundation. We will open a second school The five-classroom weatherproof building will accommodate 100 close to Vietnam before the end of the year and at least two more students. It was constructed in line with government design standards in our target area in 2020.” including the provision of well water and sanitary facilities. The AJEF will initially focus on building schools in Cambodia’s As well as a traditional blessing ceremony by local monks, the northern border areas including the Oddar Meanchey and Preah school opening was presided over by Khin Nhan, Deputy Governor Vihear provinces bordering Thailand, and the Ratanak Kiri and of Oddar Meanchey, and AJEF board members including ACLEDA Mondul Kiri provinces adjoining Vietnam. Bank Chief Executive Officer Dr In Channy, and Jardines Country The Foundation was set up in 2017 with funds from the sale of Chairman representatives Peter Beynon (Cambodia) and Alain Jardines’ interest in ACLEDA Bank in 2015, in recognition of Cany (Vietnam). ACLEDA Bank and Jardines’ commitment to providing education for all Cambodian youths. Visit ajf.org.kh to learn more.
Left: The Kork Sangke Primary School is the first school to be funded and opened under the AJEF programme.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 31 For Our Future
Jardine Foundation Scholarship Leads to First-Class Honours
Pyae Hein Htet, the first Myanmar undergraduate student to receive a Jardine Foundation Scholarship, was recently awarded a First-Class Maxim’s staff and members of the public planted 100 trees at Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden. Honours degree in Mathematics from Cambridge University. Commenting on the scholarship and his studies, he said, “My three years at Maxim’s Cakes and arome Cambridge have been a time of great intellectual development and personal growth, Launch Go-green Initiatives and I look forward to an even more exciting in Hong Kong fourth year. This wonderful educational journey would not have been possible without the Maxim’s Group is taking active steps to reduce the use of single-use support of the Jardine Foundation, and for this plastic in its outlets. Since 20 May, plastic items such as knives, utensils I am grateful beyond words.” and plastic bags are only available by request at Maxim’s Cakes and arome stores throughout Hong Kong. A Maxim’s Green Birthday campaign was also launched through social media to promote sustainable living and tree planting. As part of the initiative, Maxim’s employees and members of the pubic planted 100 trees at Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden on 20 June help to improve the local environment.
Pizza Hut Myanmar Volunteers
Visit Yangon Children’s Hospital A Jardine Foundation scholarship brought Pyae Hein Htet to Cambridge University. Pizza Hut Myanmar colleagues served meals to more than 300 patients and their families at the Yangon Children’s Hospital on 9 June. The 20 volunteers used funds raised from charity events to purchase the chicken, soup and cakes served on the day; they also donated dental hygiene products to the children. The spirit of giving back is strong in many companies in Myanmar. Pizza Hut Myanmar runs three community development programmes a year and looks forward to helping more people and communities in need.
32 Giant Volunteers Bring the Spirit of Ramadan to Communities in Need
Under the theme ‘Berkat Dikongsi di Bulan Mulia’ (to share blessings during the blessed month of Ramadan), more than 200 big-hearted Giant Malaysia volunteers rolled up their sleeves to support communities in need during the recent month of Ramadan. For example, Giant ran the seventh annual Bubur Lambuk programme with TV channel TV Al-Hijrah, which involved TV Al-Hijrah celebrities and Giant volunteers handing out 20,000 tubs of ‘bubur lambuk’ (porridge) to families in 10 locations throughout Malaysia. Giant Malaysia also donated RM15,000 (US$3,600) to three Spreading cheer to children and their parents at the Kuala Lumpur General homes for the underprivileged – Teratak Nur Barakah, Rumah Hospital paediatric ward. Giant distributed goodie bags and ‘bubur lambuk’ in the spirit of Ramadan. Amal Cahaya Tengku Ampuan Rahimah and Pertubuhan Kebajikan Ehsan Ash-Shakur – at the opening ceremony of the relaunched Giant Hypermarket Batu Caves store. In addition, Giant volunteers donated ‘bubur lambuk’ as well as other foods and products to Rohingya refugee students, and residents at the Homeless Transit Centre. Volunteers also visited Kuala Lumpur General Hospital’s paedriatic ward to bring some Ramadan cheer to children in hospital. In a similar vein, Giant has run joint programmes with high- profile partners such as the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, and Nestlé Malaysia, to assist communities and further CSR projects in recent months.
Singapore Youths Showcase Ideas at Electric Vehicle Challenge
Public and private sector players in Singapore are teaming up to develop charging infrastructure across the country to help accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). In the spirit of public-private partnerships, Cycle & Carriage (C&C) supported and sponsored the Electric Vehicle Design Challenge organised by the Singapore University of Technology and Design. The Electric Vehicle Design Challenge, now in its third year, was first launched to raise awareness and interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and
Mathematics) topics among youths in Singapore. A record The victorious team from Eunoia Junior College, with their total of 17 teams from polytechnics, junior colleges, and one-of-a-kind electric vehicle. high schools signed up for the challenge this year. The team from Eunoia Junior College eventually emerged as the overall winner, for their quality of assembly as well as the innovative design modifications made to their EV. C&C is delighted to have this opportunity to fuel the passion of participants and provide encouragement to STEM students keen to pursue their interest in EVs.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 33 Our People
New Training
Mind Gym involves a mix of in-person and Programmes Support online group learning sessions. Continuous Learning Across the Group
By September, more than 1,000 Group employees will launches in October, offers programmes developed be close to completing the Mind Gym management in conjunction with our businesses to help the training programme that started in July. Group move faster, be more flexible, and enhance customer engagement.” Uniting 50 cohorts from 15 Group business units, Mind Gym helps executives enhance their skills in managing An HR Academy, with similar goals – to provide up, managing their direct reports and improving their relevant and future-focused skills for HR colleagues personal effectiveness through instructor-led, in the region – will also be rolled out soon. Other face-to-face and virtual learning sessions. programmes in the pipeline include an initiative developed with leading business school INSEAD Mind Gym is running as a pilot programme this year, that aims to help junior and mid-level high-potential and is expected to expand to involve more employees employees grow and transition to senior roles. in 2020 and beyond. It is one of several initiatives These programmes, as well as the already established launched under a newly introduced Group Learning Advance Leadership Programme (with London strategy to provide access to world-class learning Business School) also strongly support the Jardines opportunities for everyone across the Group. strategic focus in key areas such as growth and “The new Group-wide learning strategy reaffirms our transformation, living our corporate purpose, and strong commitment to both strengthening the existing strengthening our work culture. capabilities of our people and offering them exciting An On-Demand Learning platform will also launch opportunities to develop new capabilities for the soon to help ‘time-challenged’ colleagues learn future,” said Jardine Matheson Group Human anytime, anywhere, with content personalised Resources (HR) Director John Nolan. to their role. More continued learning initiatives “Many of the new programmes teach critical, practical to support Group businesses, and individuals, will skills in functional areas such as digital and be introduced in the months ahead to maintain the innovation. They also have a business-relevant focus momentum of improvement. and our Digital and Innovation Academy, which
34 Jardine Motors Group E-book Celebrates Inspiring Colleagues and their Achievements
Exceptional colleagues share their journeys in Inspiring Stories.
Jardine Motors Group (JMG) has launched Inspiring but there is always a way to overcome difficulties and Stories, a collection of nearly 100 stories to celebrate develop greater resilience and skills in the process. the brilliant people who work across the business. Also, the power of colleagues helping and supporting The e-book features colleagues who demonstrate each other on the journey cannot be underestimated.” the company’s values in abundance and constantly The content in the first edition ofInspiring Stories challenge themselves to push boundaries, be the best is being shared internally as well as used as part they can be, and are real role models to workmates. of JMG’s employer branding activity on its digital and Inspiring Stories contains memorable accounts, social media channels to help engage with future offering personal insights into how colleagues talent and bring to life the culture of the organisation. have overcome challenges, great advice they have To keep the book fresh and to ensure new stories received, and development opportunities that can be added, the e-book will be updated each quarter have advanced their careers. with many more examples of colleagues going above Clare Martin, JMG HR Director, commented, “The and beyond, challenging themselves and becoming stories featured in our new e-book have been shared even more successful. from colleagues right across the business at all levels, To download a copy of the e-book, visit jardinemotors. and aim to encourage, inspire and motivate. Some of co.uk/careers/why-us/. the stories help remind us that we all have to dig deep at times in order to pursue our ambitions and goals,
People in the Group
Kent Teo was appointed Finance Director, Jardine Cycle Another financial management announcement was the & Carriage (JC&C) Group, Direct Motor Interests appointment of Andrew Ling as Group Finance Director effective from 1 July. Based in Singapore, Mr Teo will of Jardine Restaurant Group (JRG). Mr Ling joined JRG in also serve as Finance Director, Southeast Asia of 2016 and became Finance Director Jardine International Motors. of Pizza Hut Hong Kong in 2017. Mr Ling’s appointment, Prior to this role, Mr Teo was Chief Financial alongside other recent JRG Officer of Tunas Ridean, an Indonesian changes, is designed to associate company of JC&C, where he played enable smoother coordination a significant role in helping the company of the finance function, enhance operational efficiencies, digitise and shared strategic core functions and develop new revenue and commercial initiatives streams. Mr Teo joined Jardines in 2013 as a across businesses. Corporate Finance Manager with JC&C.
Thistle Volume 2 | 2019 35 Our People
Student Innovators Tackle Real-life Business Challenges
The team created a role-play scenario to deliver a winning pitch.
China’s next generation of entrepreneurs and disrupters tackled Winning Ideas real business challenges at the recent Innovation Camp organised One of the winning teams came up with a WeChat mini-programme by Zung Fu China. enabling customers to save their favourite car models and Introduced to engage China’s new wave of business and tech stars, generate comparison reports to improve the selection process. the innovation programme invited university and post-graduate They also recommended a knowledge-based Car Masters students to identify customer pain points with the car buying programme – inspired by the Apple Store Genius Bar – which process, ownership and usership experiences. The challenge would involve a team of ‘Car Masters’ dedicated to sharing product involved brainstorming ideas to solve the problems and drawing up knowledge and providing technical support within the retail stores blueprints for products or processes, giving participants the to help customers with product questions and issues. experiential learning opportunity to develop innovative solutions. A Zung Fu Care programme was another winning idea. With a clear Their ideas were assessed and ranked based on creativity, quality objective to drive downstream growth and recruit new customers, of research, brand awareness and feasibility. the idea proposed that customers who pay an extra 20% on top of The challenge drew a strong response from 590 students, who were the price of a car will enjoy a six-year warranty and access to required to complete an interactive quiz as part of the online aftersales repair and maintenance services, as well as finance and application. From these, 120 students entered the second stage and insurance consultation and discounts for trade-in services. developed their proposals to tackle customer pain points, with In addition to getting a taste of business in action, 10 students support from Zung Fu China executives, to contest the semi-finals in were offered Zung Fu Management Trainee opportunities. This April to mid-May. This led to the grand final pitch held in Guangzhou camp follows the success of an Innovation Bootcamp run by Zung on 25 May, which saw two teams take top honours. Fu’s innovation team, SpeedWorks, in Shanghai last year.
Vietnam: Familympic 2019 Attracts More Than 1,300 Participants
‘We Elevate’ was the theme of the 2019 Jardines Familympic annual sport event, which attracted more than 1,300 participants competing in a host of fun sporting games and challenges. Held for all employees of the Jardine Matheson Group in Vietnam, and their families, the 2019 event in March was hosted and organised by Schindler Vietnam. In terms of results, the always-popular football tournament was won by Team Schindler, and INSEE was the overall winner of the 2019 Jardines Familympic. INSEE will also host the 2020 event. The INSEE team won overall first place at Jardines Familympic 2019.
36 Please address your comments or suggestions regarding Thistle to:
Group Corporate Affairs Jardine Matheson Limited 48/F Jardine House Central, Hong Kong [email protected]
Thistle is published by Jardine Matheson Limited on behalf of the Jardine Matheson Group.
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