RE ADY SET GO!

SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD

ANNUAL REPORT 2018-19 RE NEWING our tourism landscape

Home to an incredible array of attractions, events, entertainment and lifestyle offerings, Singapore is where passion is made possible. Experiences that inspire and memories that last a lifetime – our vibrant city promises to excite you in more ways than you can imagine.

ARE YOU READY?

Gardens by the Bay on the Singapore RE FLECTING flavour

Bhai Sarbat Stall where your tea is pulled, not stirred

Discerning travellers the world over are intrigued by our dynamic tourism landscape. Our unique blend of modern and traditional, coupled with the vibrant diversity of cultures, cuisines and recreation, inspire travellers to discover and deepen their passions. our RE FRESHING global brands

MADE IN SINGAPORE

Design Orchard helping local brands go global

Discover the wondrous world of Singapore design, creativity and craftsmanship. Well- loved homegrown brands, renowned designers and talented newcomers dazzle with their winning products and ideas, all proudly made in Singapore. your passion for RE KINDLING unique cultures

Kim Choo Kueh Chang where the clash of colours work

As treasure troves for travellers to explore, our heritage sites charm visitors by presenting the fascinating diversity of customs and traditions that are the heart and soul of Singapore’s multicultural society. the spark RE IGNITING in you

Marquee Singapore where partying is taken to new heights

From world-class performances to trendy nightspots and heart- stopping extreme attractions, we offer different dimensions of entertainment to engage and exhilarate visitors. the childlike innocence RE AWAKENING in you

Ocean Suites, Resorts World Sentosa making your childhood imaginations come to life

Immersive experiences and events showcase cutting-edge developments in science, technology and the world. We open the eyes of travellers and unleash their imagination, empowering them to see limitless possibilities. the kampong RE VIVING spirit

Colbar where old school is cool

Heritage neighbourhoods and specially-curated tours – such as offshore excursions to pristine island sanctuaries and heritage walks – chronicle Singapore’s rich history. They invite visitors to step into whole new worlds to experience our island’s early years. your travel RE INVENTINGexperience

Jewel the latest crown jewel of Changi Airport

We stay ahead of the curve by delivering on the promise of truly unforgettable travel experiences. Our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and creating extraordinary memories constantly surprise and excite travellers. RE ADY TO EXPLORE?

MacRitchie TreeTop Walk, National Parks Board ABOUT The STB is a statutory board under the Ministry of Trade Singapore and Industry of Singapore. It is the lead development agency for tourism, Tourism one of Singapore’s key economic sectors. Together with industry Board partners and the community, it shapes a dynamic Singapore tourism landscape, and brings the Passion Made Possible brand to life by differentiating Singapore as a vibrant destination that inspires people to share and deepen their passions.

The STB ensures that tourism remains an important and vibrant economic pillar through long- term strategic planning, and by forging partnerships, driving innovation and promoting excellence in the tourism sector.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 11 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 ABOUT Singapore Tourism Board

VISION A vibrant and inspiring Destination Singapore that we are proud of.

MISSION To shape a dynamic tourism landscape for Singapore in partnership with the industry and community.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 12 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 ABOUT Singapore Tourism VALUE Board CARE COURAGE INTEGRITY PASSION TEAM Care for One Another Dare to Speak Behave Responsibly Believe in our Purpose Succeed as a Team We show empathy and care We speak up and share our We are reliable, fair and We are energetic, driven We take responsibility for through supportive actions thoughts with conviction honest in our dealings with and believe in the purpose our individual roles and and encouraging words and respect towards others. our stakeholders, partners of our work. work together to contribute for one another and the and colleagues. We uphold to STB’s success. We community. Dare to Dream the Board’s reputation. Driven to Excel appreciate and recognise We challenge traditions, We love what we do and everyone’s effort and Nurture One Another norms and assumptions with take pride in delivering celebrate success together. We promote a nurturing fresh ideas and perspectives. impactful and quality work. environment by supporting, We take bold steps to Bond as a Team helping out and looking out experiment and translate We seek to understand and for one another. ideas to plans for the future. respect individual differences. We make time Respect for One Another Dare to Do to have fun together and We respect one another by We endeavour to make a put smiles on one another’s listening to other points of difference. We believe in faces. views with an open mind making wise decisions in and recognising the every circumstance, even if Learn as a Team contribution/effort of one it means taking calculated We learn from one another another. risks in difficult or unclear by sharing knowledge and situations. resources and learning from successes/failures to achieve team success together.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 13 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 ABOUT Singapore Tourism Board

Our AMERICAS EUROPE Americas (New York) United Kingdom (London) Italy (Milan) Singapore Tourism Board Singapore Tourism Board Singapore Tourism Board 589 Fifth Avenue Singapore Centre Marketing Representative Suite 1702 First Floor, PR & GO UP Communication Global New York, NY 10017, Southwest House Partners United States of America 11A Regent Street via Fabio Filzi, 27 London, SW1Y 4LR, 20124 Milan, Italy United Kingdom Russia (Moscow) Presence France (Paris) Embassy of the Singapore Tourism Board Republic of Singapore The STB’s mandate to grow Singapore’s Marketing Representative Singapore Tourism Board Interface Tourism Per Kamennaya Sloboda 5 tourism sector is reinforced by a 16 Rue Ballu 121099, robust overseas presence. Our global 75009 Paris, France Moscow, Russian Federation network of 21 offices and five marketing Germany (Frankfurt) Singapore Tourism Board representatives promote Singapore as a c/o Singapore Centre Bleichstrasse 45 destination in seven key regions. 60313 Frankfurt, Germany

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 14 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 ABOUT

Singapore OCEANIA Australia (Sydney) Philippines (Manila) Tourism Singapore Tourism Board Singapore Tourism Board 11th Floor AWA Building 17th Floor, 47 York Street 6788 Ayala Avenue Board Sydney NSW 2000, Australia 1226 Makati City Manila, Philippines Our Australia (Melbourne) Singapore Tourism Board INDIA, MIDDLE EAST AND Global Marketing Representative SOUTH ASIA Presence GTI Tourism India (Mumbai) Ms Kerrin Trenorden Singapore Tourism Board Kerrin.Trenorden@ Singapore Centre gtitourism.com.au Unit 216/217, The Capital G Block, Near ICICI Bank GREATER CHINA SOUTHEAST ASIA Bandra Kurla Complex, Beijing Hong Kong Malaysia & Brunei Bandra (East), Singapore Tourism Board Singapore Tourism Board (Kuala Lumpur) Mumbai 400051, India (Singapore Centre Beijing) Unit 3011 30/F Singapore Tourism Board Unit 3101-3106 Tower 1 Times Square Unit 6-3, Level 6 India (New Delhi) China World Tower 1 1 Matheson Street Menara AIA Sentral Singapore Tourism Board No.1 Jian Guo Men Wai Causeway Bay, Hong Kong 30 Jalan Sultan Ismail Singapore Centre, Unit 4A, Avenue 50250 Kuala Lumpur, 4th Floor, Aria Tower Beijing 100004, Taipei Malaysia JW Marriott Asset Area 4 People’s Republic of China Singapore Tourism Board Delhi Aerocity, Marketing Representative Thailand (Bangkok) Hospitality District Shanghai Prestige Public Relations Singapore Tourism Board New Delhi 110037, India Singapore Tourism Board 3F No. 29 Sec 1 An Ho Rd @ Singapore Centre (Singapore Centre Shanghai) Taipei 106 Unit 1702-1703 India (Chennai & Bangalore) Unit 1509-11 17th Floor Sathorn Square Marketing Representative Shui On Plaza NORTH ASIA Office Tower T&A Consulting 333 Huai Hai Zhong Road Japan (Tokyo) 98 North Sathorn Road, Shanghai 200021, Singapore Tourism Board Silom, Chennai People’s Republic of China #1407 Marunouchi Building Bangrak 318, Workafella 2-4-1 Marunouchi, Bangkok 10500, Thailand 1/192A, High Street Guangzhou Chiyoda-ku Anna Salai, Teynampet Singapore Tourism Board Tokyo 100-6314, Japan Vietnam Chennai, (Singapore Centre Singapore Tourism Board Tamil Nadu 600018, India Guangzhou) Korea (Seoul) Unit 03, 11th Floor Unit 6104 CITIC Plaza Singapore Tourism Board Saigon Centre, Tower 2, Bangalore No. 233 Tianhe North Road 9th Floor Kyobo 67 Le Loi, District 1, 004 Workafella Business Guangzhou, Tianhe District Life Insurance Co. Building Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Centre, 150/1 Infantry Road Guangdong 510613, 1, Jongno 1-ga, Bangalore 560001, People’s Republic of China Jongno-gu, Seoul Indonesia (Jakarta) Karnataka, India 03154, South Korea Singapore Tourism Board Chengdu 19th Floor, Unit 01, United Arab Emirates (Dubai) Singapore Tourism Board Mayapada Tower 1 Singapore Tourism Board (Singapore Centre Chengdu) Jalan Jendral Sudirman Kav 28 Sultan Business Centre Unit 2102, F21, Tower 2, Jakarta 12920, Indonesia Unit 209 Raffles City, No. 3 Section 4, Oud Metha Road South Renmin Road, Indonesia (Surabaya) PO Box: 115804 Chengdu, 610041, Singapore Tourism Board Dubai, United Arab Emirates People’s Republic of China Sinar Mas Land Plaza Wisma BII, Unit 1373, Level 13 Jalan Pemuda No. 60-70 Surabaya 60271, Indonesia

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 15 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 PEOPLE

People are essential to the success of Singapore’s tourism industry. Working in close collaboration with industry partners, associations, business owners, education institutions and government agencies, STB supports the tourism sector in grooming talents, upskilling the workforce, and improving business capabilities. These are critical for enhancing business sustainability, operational efficiencies and service standards. STB’S MANAGEMENT Dialogue How would you describe What sort of impact with STB’s year in 2018? do you think the volatile global Chairman economic and political Despite some headwinds, we achieved a third consecutive year of growth for both Tourism landscape will have Receipts (TR) and International Visitor Arrivals (IVA). TR came in at S$26.9 billion (+0.5%) as on Singapore tourism in a result of higher visitor spending from our the coming year? top five TR source markets while IVA hit 18.5 million (+6.2%) on the back of growth across 14 of our top 15 markets. Seven markets, There is much volatility in the world currently namely China, India, the Philippines, the UK, and tourism will not be spared in terms the USA, Vietnam, and Germany, hit new highs of impact. in terms of visitor arrivals. As a start, global growth is already being Within the tourism industry, I was heartened affected by the US-China trade war and by how well the cruise, hotel and business Brexit-related issues in Europe. At the same sectors had performed. Total cruise passenger time, global competition for the tourism dollar throughput surged 35 per cent to a record high continues unabated as destinations around the of 1.87 million, driven by extended sailings and world step up their efforts to realise growing new cruise offerings, while total gazetted room demand for travel. Other global industry revenue increased by 7.4 per cent to S$4 billion trends we note are people are travelling more with hotel occupancy rising to 86 per cent but spending less, and ongoing currency (+1.2%). BTMICE visitor arrivals jumped 14 per fluctuations that affect spending power. cent to reach 2 million and BTMICE tourism receipts for the first three quarters of 2018 Despite these trends, the STB remains increased by 10 per cent over the same period cautiously optimistic about Singapore’s tourism to S$3.44 billion. growth prospects in 2019. We forecast tourism receipts to be in the range of S$27.3 to S$27.9 There is no doubt in my mind that Singapore billion, a 1 to 3 per cent year-on-year growth, tourism’s 2018 performance is a strong while international visitor arrivals are expected testament to the outstanding commitment, to come in between 18.7 and 19.2 million, creativity and expertise of all stakeholders up by 1 to 4 per cent year-on-year. across our industry. On behalf of the Board and management team, I would like to thank To maintain our position as a leading travel everyone for their passion and commitment destination and achieve sustained growth, in supporting the sustained growth and we need our partners across the tourism development of Singapore tourism. industry to continually refresh their offerings and to create new products. Our efforts must I believe STB’s efforts over the last few years extend across every aspect of tourism, from towards achieving Quality Tourism have broadening our marketing reach to conceiving provided the right impetus to our partners in new destination experiences and concepts. the industry. They have worked collaboratively MR CHALY MAH to develop new tourism strategies and CHAIRMAN experiences, in order to capture opportunities that are delivering results today.

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with In August 2018, STB launched a new raft of building, Tourism Court, was retrofitted and marketing activities for interests such as sports, subsequently achieved the Building and Chairman How do you think culture and entertainment. The campaign Construction Authority (BCA) Green Mark Singapore can compete features many homegrown talents such as Platinum award this year, the highest rating for a larger slice of the songwriter Nathan Hartono, indoor skydiver attainable for existing buildings. Moving Kyra Poh and tour guide Cai Yinzhou who forward, we will continue to implement growing tourism pie? founded Geylang Adventures, a social initiative initiatives that will build a culture of which aims to unpack social issues through sustainability within STB and support our sightseeing. industry stakeholders in driving green initiatives Two key areas come to mind. Firstly, STB across the whole tourism sector. has struck up new strategic marketing Collectively, these initiatives elevate partnerships with a wide range of partners Singapore’s destination attractiveness This is an important transitional year for that will help us to multiply our outreach. amongst existing and potential visitors. STB. I would like to welcome Mr Keith Tan, These partners include Changi Airport Group We must continue to seek out and pursue who joined us as STB’s new Chief Executive (CAG), Alipay, Spotify, Traveloka and Sentosa such opportunities to sharpen Singapore’s on 29 October 2018. I would also like to Development Corporation. One of the key competitive edge. take this opportunity to thank our current features of STB and CAG’s partnership includes Board and management team members for the introduction of the Singapore Stopover their continued passion and commitment. Premium Package. This will curate distinctive I welcome new Board members Ms Audrey experiences so that travellers with different Kuah and Mrs Wong Ai Ai and thank former needs can better enjoy Singapore. For our What will the STB Board member, Ms Christina Ong, who partnership with Alipay, we will co-invest in Board and Management stepped down in December 2018, for her joint marketing activities to encourage Chinese valuable contributions. tourists to spend in Singapore with Alipay. team prioritise for the STB is also partnering hotels to enhance coming year? visitors’ stay in Singapore by elevating the hotel experience beyond accommodation to appeal to their passions and interests through Looking ahead, we must continue growing storytelling and tours. and developing the talents and employment opportunities in our industry. A key priority Beyond marketing, these partnerships is investing in data analytics and applying are expected to play an important role the insights intelligently. Having the ability MR CHALY MAH in Singapore’s efforts to differentiate our to gather and analyse in-depth market and CHAIRMAN tourism experiences, such as ubiquitous consumer data effectively, in real-time, will cashless payment options, attractive stopover continue to be a game changer for STB packages, and destination-related music and and the tourism industry. As a destination, entertainment recommendations for visitors. Singapore’s path to success lies in having people who are creative and passionate about Secondly, as part of our global Passion tourism and we must find new ways to nurture Made Possible campaign, we have seen how a thriving pipeline of talent and resources to authentic local experiences make Singapore reach greater heights. unique, and provide the much needed authenticity and variety that appeal to our We also recognise the growing concerns target audience. For example, since the brand about the environmental impact of travel launch in 2017, tour operators saw a 10 to 35 and tourism, and we are committed to look per cent increase in signups for the refreshed at ways to minimise tourism’s effects on passion tours. There are now 27 Passion Tours. the environment. For a start, STB’s office

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 18 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT

How did STB achieve the Despite global Dialogue strong tourism numbers economic uncertainties, in 2018? STB managed to achieve with Chief strong growth across 2018 was a good year for Singapore tourism. core tourism industries, MR KEITH TAN Executive including BTMICE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE STB expanded our marketing and trade cultivation efforts in more cities in China, Hotels, and Cruise. What Indonesia and India, to ride on strong were STB’s key strategies outbound travel demand as well as increased air connectivity to Singapore from these cities. and investments that Some of our efforts in earlier years to invest in enabled this? new markets such as Myanmar, South Africa, Cambodia, and Bangladesh have also started to bear fruit, as these markets saw encouraging growth trends in 2018. BTMICE, Cruise and Hotels are three very different sectors, so STB uses different But these efforts would have rung hollow if approaches and strategies to grow each sector. STB had not also invested in broadening and deepening the range of business and leisure BTMICE. STB is committed to strengthening events, as well as attractions and experiences, Singapore’s position as a leading global in Singapore. business and MICE destination, so our staff work hard with many private sector partners, One good example is STB’s partnership with industry associations and government agencies contemporary art magazine Frieze. The to attract and anchor industry-leading business collaboration resulted in a three-part series that events in Singapore. These partnerships set allowed us to organise thought-leadership art Singapore apart from other cities, as they events in Singapore and London. It was enable us to attract, anchor and grow business an opportune time for us to showcase Singapore events that complement both established and as a great destination for arts lovers in the region. emerging sectors in Singapore’s economy, such as in logistics, Fintech, the digital In 2018, STB also stepped up our work economy, and healthcare. In turn, we see these with local tour operators to develop new events as strategic opportunities to strengthen experiences and tours. These efforts resulted in Singapore’s position as a global node for new experiences such as the Singapore 1920s: innovation, technology, and enterprise. Trails of Tan Ah Huat and Our Singapore Story: An Artist Journey tours. We worked with event Cruise. STB focuses our efforts on securing organisers to strengthen established events a diverse mix of ships and cruise offerings such as the FORMULA 1® SINGAPORE GRAND that originate in Singapore, thus attracting PRIX and Christmas on a Great Street, while different segments of travelers from different supporting promising new events such as the countries, while maximising the benefits to PVP Esports Championship 2018. STB also the Singapore economy. STB also works inked a three-year partnership with William with partners in Southeast Asia to open up Reed Business Media to anchor a series of five new cruise destinations in the region, which 50 Best events in Singapore from 2019 to 2021. in turn reinforce Singapore’s position as the We expect this partnership to spur industry regional cruise hub. 2018 saw a record high and capability growth for local F&B enterprises in passenger throughput as a result of the and drive global awareness of Singapore as a year-round deployment of Genting Dream vibrant lifestyle and culinary destination. and extended sailings from Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 19 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT Dialogue with Chief Executive

Hotels. In 2018, hotels in Singapore made reflect Singapore’s innate spirit of enterprise, Over the next 10 years, STB and our industry But we believe our investments in tourism good strides in their efforts to transform determination, innovative and creativity, and partners must double down on our efforts to also contribute to Singaporeans’ quality of their work processes, redesign jobs, adopt have given STB novel ways of showcasing develop Singapore’s tourism workforce. Our life, by expanding the range of experiences innovative solutions, enrich their guest different facets of Singapore to the world. efforts at improving our attractions, events and attractions available to them. By bringing offerings, and expand their international and experiences will falter if we do not have the world to Singapore, we create invaluable footprint – all while maintaining very high Through the Passion Made Possible campaign, enough good people who care about “the opportunities for Singapore companies, and occupancy rates throughout the year. STB STB has had an unparalleled opportunity to business of happiness”. On this front, we must we also help bring the special Passion Made works very closely with the Singapore Hotel work with many passionate Singaporeans change outdated perceptions of the tourism Possible story of Singapore to the world. Association to promote these efforts, to ensure whose lives and experiences demonstrate industry. This is no longer just a business that Singapore hotels remain competitive the values that make Singapore a great place of making beds or giving commentaries on As you go through this Annual Report, we hope and productive. In 2018, STB also launched to live, work and play. Their stories and their board a tour bus – though both still remain you will be inspired, as we are at STB, to seek the Smart Hotel Technology Guide and the voices amplify STB’s own marketing efforts, very relevant. Like every other sector in the out new and innovative ways of reaching the Hotel Technology Directory to spur hotels’ adding a richer layer of authenticity to our economy, the tourism industry is becoming world – for Singapore. transformation efforts. stories of Singapore. increasingly reliant on data and digital technology to enhance value for its customers. The industry therefore needs good people with the skills to apply these tools to “the business How has the Passion Made After a year in this role, of happiness”.

Possible brand progressed? what challenges and But we have many opportunities ahead opportunities do you see of us too. One great opportunity lies with Singaporeans themselves, most of whom are As an aside – I love the Passion Made on the horizon for STB and MR KEITH TAN proud of our home and what it offers to visitors CHIEF EXECUTIVE Possible brand! I especially love how the Singapore tourism? and locals. We hope we can tap on this deep brand transcends tourism and has a much reservoir of pride and attachment, so that more larger purpose, as it seeks to celebrate Singaporeans become natural “ambassadors” qualities in Singaporeans that make Singapore of Singapore. special, vibrant and attractive for visitors and Thanks to the efforts of STB staff and past STB Singaporeans. leaders, I have inherited a strong portfolio. Perhaps the biggest challenge of all is STB introduced the Passion Made Possible maintaining, and growing, this portfolio, to brand in 2017 and it has resonated well with ensure that Singapore remains a top travel This year’s Annual Report our target audiences around the world. In destination for business and leisure travellers, theme is “Ready, Set, Go!”. 2018, we expanded our efforts to bring the with a diverse mix of attractions, events and Passion Made Possible brand to experiences for different target audiences. And What would you like to 19 international markets. To date, our brand we need to do all this while remaining true to convey to the industry? marketing efforts have accumulated a global Singapore’s intrinsic attributes and character. audience reach of more than 1.4 billion and One specific challenge is the need to change over 763 million video views. “Ready, Set, Go!” is a clarion call for all of us in the longstanding perception of Singapore as Singapore’s tourism sector to participate in the a “stopover” destination. This may have been Many people from inside and outside the exciting work of expanding the contributions true in the past, but it is certainly no longer the travel trade, and many visitors, have told STB of tourism. STB wants to grow tourism not case! There is so much to see and do here, and how much they have enjoyed the stories of just for its direct economic contributions – a “stopover” holiday simply does no justice to Passion Made Possible. These inspiring stories which remain very important, undoubtedly. what we have here in Singapore.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 20 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT Board of Directors

MR CHALY MAH CHAIRMAN MR MOHAMAD SAIFUL SARONI BOARD MEMBER

MR KEITH TAN BOARD MEMBER

Mr Mohamad Saiful Saroni has been a partner in PwC LLP Singapore since 2012. He started in PwC as an associate in Mr Keith Tan assumed the appointment of 2000 and has over 19 years of experience in the audit industry, Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board three of which were spent on secondment to the PwC US Firm on 29 October 2018. in its San Francisco office. He is also one of the Firm’s partner Mr Chaly Mah worked at Deloitte for over 38 years. contacts as it relates to US Accounting and Auditing matters Prior to his retirement on 31 May 2016, he was From 2014 to 2018, he served as the Deputy as well as US-bound cross border security transactions. CEO of Deloitte Asia Pacific and Chairman Secretary (Policy) in the Ministry of Defence, Saiful’s areas of specialty are in the Energy, Utilities and Mining of Deloitte Singapore, and Vice Chairman of where he strengthened Singapore’s international as well as Technology and Transport sectors. He is actively Deloitte Global Board of Directors. He has defence partnerships, led MINDEF’s longer-term involved in the audits of SEC registrants. extensive experience serving both multinational strategic planning and guided MINDEF’s strategic and local companies across a wide spectrum communications and public engagement efforts. Mr Saroni also sits on the Boards of Mercy Relief, Building of industries, specialising in financial services, and Construction Authority, Skillsfuture SG and Singapore telecommunications and technology, real estate, From 2013 to 2014, Keith was concurrently the Anti-Narcotics Association. He is also a member of Advisory private equity and manufacturing. Senior Director of the Public Service Division’s Council to the People’s Association Malay Activity Executive PS21 Office, and Institute Director in the Institute Committee Council, as well as the Woodlands Citizen Mr Mah is currently Chairman of Netlink NBN of Governance and Policy at Singapore’s Civil Consultative Committee. Management Pte Ltd, the Singapore Accountancy Service College. Keith also served in the Ministry Commission and National University of Singapore of Trade and Industry (MTI) as Director of the He graduated with a Bachelor of Accountancy from Nanyang Business School Accounting Advisory Board. He is Economics and Strategy Division (2008 - 2010) Technological University (Honours). He is a member of ISCA, also board member of Capitaland Limited, Flipkart and the Foreign Economic Policy Division as well as a member of the American Institute of Certified Pte Ltd, Singapore Economic Development Board, (2010 - 2013). Public Accountants. Monetary Authority of Singapore and the National University of Singapore Board of Trustee.

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MR ALLEN LAW BOARD MEMBER

MS AUDREY KUAH BOARD MEMBER

Mr Allen Law is Chief Executive Officer of Park Hotel Group, one of Asia Pacific’s leading hospitality MR ALVIN LIM companies. Under his leadership, Park Hotel Group BOARD MEMBER Ms Audrey Kuah is Executive Director, Media Practice - Asia expanded from a single hotel in Hong Kong to Pacific and Managing Director, Global Data Innovation a multinational company with multi-property Centre at Dentsu Aegis Network. As Executive Director, Media portfolio spanning across 12 destinations in the Practice – Asia Pacific, she is responsible for the evolution of Mr Alvin Lim is Director for International Relations at Asia Pacific region. the business model and future capabilities. As global head of the Singapore Ministry of Finance which manages the first R & D Centre, she is responsible for the development bilateral economic relations and multilateral Demonstrating strong business acumen and leadership of proprietary and future forward marketing platforms that engagements with institutions such as ASEAN, the IMF, skills in the dynamic travel and tourism landscape, combine machine learning, artificial intelligence, cloud World Bank, Asian Development Bank and the Asian Allen has grown Park Hotel Group’s collection of technology and the deep marketing expertise of Dentsu Infrastructure Investment Bank. brands, which comprises of the luxury Grand Park, Group. Prior to her current roles in Dentsu Aegis Network, the upscale Park Hotel and the midscale Destination Ms Kuah was its Chief Client Officer, Southeast Asia and Prior to his current position, he served variously at the as well as the loyalty programme, Park Rewards. former Singapore CEO. Ministry of Manpower, Ministry of Trade and Industry, In addition, he has led Park Hotel Group to garner Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was the Deputy Chief of numerous awards over the years, including: TTG Asia’s Ms Kuah’s expertise in marketing, digital and advertising has Mission at the Singapore Embassy in Washington DC. Best Regional Hotel Chain (2012-2016) and most been deployed across industries and geographies, for more recently SkillsFuture Employer Awards 2018. than two decades. Ms Kuah is active in the industry and Mr Lim was educated at Oxford University, England, is on the regional board of IAB Southeast Asia and India. where he read Philosophy, Politics and Economics. Allen currently serves on the Board of Directors of She was also a recent member of the Future Economy He also has an MBA in Strategy and Finance from Singapore Tourism Board, SkillsFuture Singapore Council Modern Services Sub-Committee. the Yale School of Management. Mr Lim was an and Singapore Institute of Hospitality. He is also an International Congressional Fellow at the Brookings executive committee member of Orchard Road Ms Kuah was awarded an MBA from The University of Institution and a Senior Executive Fellow at the Business Association. Chicago Booth School of Business in 2007 and graduated Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. with a B.A. from National University of Singapore in 1992.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 22 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT Board of Directors

MS JOANNA FLINT BOARD MEMBER MR LIM MING YAN BOARD MEMBER

MR LIM ENG HWEE BOARD MEMBER

Mr Lim Eng Hwee is the Chief Executive Officer of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) with effect from 1st September 2017. URA is Singapore’s Ms Joanna Flint is Managing Director of Google’s Agency national planning agency, responsible for Business for Asia Pacific and is responsible for strategic the physical planning and urban development Mr Lim Ming Yan is the Chairman of Workforce Singapore, partnerships with the world’s largest media networks across the of Singapore. a statutory board set up under the Ministry of Manpower to region. Formerly, she was the Managing Director for Google promote the development, competitiveness, inclusiveness Singapore and oversaw sales and business development from its Mr Lim was formerly the Chief Planner and Deputy and employability of all levels of the workforce. regional hub. Chief Executive Officer of URA from 2009 to 2017. He has extensive experience in urban planning, Mr Lim is also a member of the Future Economy Prior to Google, Ms Flint was Senior Consultant at OgilvyOne urban design, implementation of land use policies Council (FEC) and co-chairman of its Built Environment Asia-Pacific from 2004 to 2008, providing strategic counsel in and development initiatives. He also served in the Sub-committee. He is a Director of Business China, digital and e-commerce to Ogilvy’s flagship clients. Before that, Ministry of National Development and Ministry of an organisation that promotes bilingualism and she had been in the aviation industry for 10 years, working in Trade and Industry. biculturalism between Singapore and China, and global commercial and marketing positions in British Airways independent director of Singapore Press Holdings as from 1997 to 2001, and as Global Sales and Digital Marketing He served as a member in the Boards of Land well as DLF Cyber City Developers Limited. leader in Singapore Airlines from 2001 to 2004. Transport Authority, Singapore Cooperation Enterprise and Singapore Science Centre. Mr Lim was President & Group Chief Executive Officer Ms Flint is a well-regarded speaker at industry events on topics He currently sits on the Boards of Singapore of CapitaLand Group from 2013 to 2018. Prior to that, of digital, innovation, creativity, technology and women in the Tourism Board, National Environment Agency he held various key appointments within the Group, workplace. She is on the Leadership Council of the Singapore and the International Federation for Housing including the appointment as Group Chief Operating iAB, and recently retired from the Board of the National and Planning. Officer, Chief Executive Officer of The Ascott Limited and University Singapore ISS. She has authored publications, Chief Executive Officer of CapitaLand China Holdings including the new path to purchase, ‘Winning the Zero Mr Lim graduated with a Bachelor of Planning from Pte Ltd. He was responsible for growing Ascott into a Moment of Truth - Asia’. Ms Flint graduated from University of the University of Auckland. He also holds a Master global lodging business and for building CapitaLand into Manchester in 1995. in Public Administration from the Harvard University a leading foreign real estate developer in China. and attended the Wharton Advanced Management Program at the University of Pennsylvania.

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MRS WONG AI AI BOARD MEMBER

MR PRASAD MENON BOARD MEMBER

MR QUEK SWEE KUAN BOARD MEMBER

Mrs Wong Ai Ai is a member of multinational law firm Mr Quek Swee Kuan is the Chief Executive Officer of Baker McKenzie’s Global Executive Committee and Mr Prasad R. Menon is a Chemical Engineer from the Indian Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) where he steers Chair of the Asia Pacific Region. Institute of Technology, Kharagpur. He has over 45 years of the vision and development of Sentosa Island as a leading diverse experience in some of the premier multinational and leisure and lifestyle destination in Singapore. Mrs Wong is recognised as a leading individual for Indian companies. Corporate/M&A matters by publications including Prior to joining SDC in October 2015, Mr Quek was the Chambers Asia Pacific, Legal 500 Asia Pacific and Mr Menon started his career with the Imperial Chemical Economic Development Board’s (EDB) Deputy Managing IFLR1000. Industries (ICI) and served for 20 years, followed by another Director, where he took on leadership positions covering 11 years at Nagarjuna Group. In October 2000, Mr Menon a wide range of portfolio that included Global Operations, Today, Mrs Wong leads a number of key areas of took over as the Managing Director of Tata Chemicals and in Marketing & Communications, Industry Development and strategic focus for the Firm, including building out October 2006, he took over as the Managing Director of Tata Investment Promotion, as well as Planning and Policy. Baker McKenzie’s transactional strength in money Power, the largest integrated private power utility in India. At EDB, he played a key role in formulating strategies centres such as London, New York and HK/China, He has championed sustainability as a key strategic initiative aimed at attracting foreign investments into Singapore and and overseeing the Firm’s Financial Institutions in the organisation. helped elevate Singapore’s stature as an important global Group globally. As Chair of the Firm’s Environment player in various industries, including interactive digital Committee, Mrs Wong also leads Baker McKenzie’s Mr Menon subsequently served on several Tata Boards, media, lifestyle and consumer business. global waste and emissions reduction drive, including being the first Chairman of Tata-Singapore Airlines and champions the Firm’s involvement in some of in India. He has deep interest in the NGO/ Development Mr Quek was the Singapore Tourism Board’s (STB) Deputy the world’s most significant sustainability initiatives. areas, and has been associated with organisations in the Chief Executive from February 2007 to March 2009. fields of environment, sustainability, wildlife conservation During that time, he led STB’s network of international Outside of Baker McKenzie, Mrs Wong serves as Chair and academia. Mr Menon currently serves as an Independent offices in working with foreign tourism players to brand of the Yellow Ribbon Fund, a charitable foundation that Director on the Boards of Dr.Reddys Laboratories and the and market Singapore as an attractive and compelling supports rehabilitation and reintegration programmes Sanmar Group. destination for leisure, business, education and healthcare for ex-offenders and their families. She is also a services to international travellers. member on the Board of Singapore Tyler Print Institute.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 24 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT Senior Management

MR KEITH TAN MS MELISSA OW MS LYNETTE PANG MS JEANNIE LIM MR CHANG CHEE PEY MR QUEK CHOON YANG CHIEF EXECUTIVE DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE, ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE, ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE, CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER & QSM, MARKETING GROUP POLICY & PLANNING GROUP INTERNATIONAL GROUP TECHNOLOGY TRANSFORMATION GROUP

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 25 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT BUSINESS GROUPS Corporate Group

MS MELISSA OW MS CHIANG HAI YIN MR EVAN KOH MS DONG LIMIN MR ALFRED CHIAM DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE CHIEF CORPORATE OFFICER DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, HEAD, AND COVERING DIRECTOR, LEGAL FINANCE INTERNAL AUDIT COMPLIANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES

* Ms Chiang Hai Yin, Chief Corporate Officer, is on a 15-month study leave effective 15 August 2019. * Ms Chew Chien Way was appointed Director, Human Resources & Organisation Development on 15 August 2019. * Madam Ong Siew Hwee will be appointed Director, Compliance and Corporate Services on 1 November 2019. * The Internal Audit reports functionally to the Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) and administratively to the Deputy Chief Executive.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 26 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT BUSINESS GROUPS Marketing Group

MS LYNETTE PANG MR OLIVER CHONG MS LIM SHOO LING MS JACQUELINE NG MS GERALDINE YEO MR TERRENCE VOON ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS & BRAND MARKETING PARTNERSHIPS INDUSTRY MARKETING DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING CAPABILITY & PLANNING

* Mr Oliver Chong will be appointed Executive Director, Market Planning, International Relations and Oceania on 1 November 2019. * Ms Geraldine Yeo will be appointed Principal Specialist (Learning) on 1 November 2019. * Ms Lilian Chee, currently Deputy Director, F1, will be appointed Director, Industry Marketing on 1 November 2019. * Mr Terrence Voon will be appointed Director, Communications & Marketing Capability on 1 December 2019.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 27 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT BUSINESS GROUPS Experience Development Group

MS MELISSA OW MS CARRIE KWIK DR EDWARD KOH MS SERENE TAN MR ANDREW PHUA MS JEAN NG MS RANITA MS ONG LING LEE DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SUNDRAMOORTHY DIRECTOR (DESIGNATE), ATTRACTIONS, CONVENTIONS, MEETINGS ARTS & CULTURAL EXHIBITIONS & CONFERENCES SPORTS DIRECTOR, SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT & & INCENTIVE TRAVEL PRECINCTS RETAIL & DINING TOURISM CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

* Dr Edward Koh was appointed Executive Director, Conventions, Meetings & Incentive Travel on 1 June 2019. * Ms Carrie Kwik will be appointed Regional Director, Europe on 1 November 2019. * Ms Jean Ng will be appointed Executive Director, Attractions, Entertainment & Tourism Concept Development on 1 November 2019. * Ms Ong Ling Lee will be appointed Director, Sports on 1 November 2019.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 28 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT BUSINESS GROUPS Policy & Planning Group

MS JEANNIE LIM MS ANNIE CHANG MS RACHEL LOH MR CHEW TIONG HENG MR KENNETH LIM MS ONG HUEY HONG ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, CRUISE STRATEGIC PLANNING & INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING TRAVEL AGENT & HOTEL & SECTOR MANPOWER INCENTIVE POLICY & MANAGEMENT TOURIST GUIDES

* Mr Kenneth Lim was appointed Director, Travel Agent & Tourist Guides on 15 July 2019. * Ms Rachel Loh will be appointed Regional Director, Americas on 1 October 2019. * Ms Cherie Lee will be appointed Director, Strategic Planning & Incentive Policy on 1 October 2019. * Ms Ong Huey Hong will be appointed Director, Industry Data Transformation on 1 November 2019.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 29 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT BUSINESS GROUPS Technology Transformation Group

MR QUEK CHOON YANG MS SHAMEEM MUSTAFFA MS CHOO HUEI MIIN MS KAREN ANN LEONG MR POH CHI CHUAN MS CONNIE POH CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER & QSM CHIEF DATA OFFICER DIRECTOR, CHIEF, DIRECTOR, HEAD, VISITOR EXPERIENCE THE COLLABORATORY DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ORGANISATION ENABLEMENT

* The former Data Governance & System division was renamed Industry Data Transformation. * Ms Choo Huei Miin will be appointed Director, Digital & Content on 1 January 2020.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 30 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 STB’S MANAGEMENT BUSINESS GROUPS International Group

MR CHANG CHEE PEY MS JULIANA KUA MS GOH KERSHING MR JOHN CONCEICAO MR G B SRITHAR MR MARKUS TAN MS TAN YEN NEE MR SOO SIEW KEONG ASSISTANT CHIEF EXECUTIVE CHIEF REPRESENTATIVE & REGIONAL DIRECTOR, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, AMERICAS SOUTHEAST ASIA INDIA, MIDDLE EAST NORTH ASIA EUROPE TRADE ENGAGEMENT & GREATER CHINA AND SOUTH ASIA NEW MARKETS

* Mr John Conceicao was appointed Regional Director, Southeast Asia on 1 June 2019. * Ms Goh Kershing will be appointed Senior Vice President, Strategic Partnerships and Alliances on 1 October 2019. * Ms Tan Yen Nee will be appointed Director, Hotel & Sector Manpower on 1 November 2019.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 31 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 PERFORMANCE AND INITIATIVES FY2018/2019

To drive sustainable growth and competitiveness across Singapore’s tourism sector, STB and key industry stakeholders collaborated closely to develop an innovative array of authentic, world-class attractions, events and initiatives. The industry’s passion for delivering highly-engaging and differentiated visitor experiences drew a record number of visitors from around the world. Tourism 2018 was a challenging but fulfilling year for Singapore tourism. We achieved a third consecutive year of growth and both tourism receipts (TR) and visitor arrivals (VA) hit new highs. The core Sector tourism industries of BTMICE, Hotels and Cruise also posted strong results.

Singapore welcomed 18.5 million visitors, a 6.2 per cent increase from 2017, due to growth in VA across almost all top 15 markets. Of these, seven markets – China, India, Germany, the Philippines, Performance the UK, the US and Vietnam – generated record arrivals.

TR reached S$26.9 billion (+0.5%) as a result of higher visitor spending from our top five TR 2018 markets of China, Indonesia, India, Australia and Japan. Overview

S$26.9b S$26.8b 2018 2017 S$25.7b S$23.6b 2016 2014 S$21.8b 2015

Tourism Receipts 18.5m 17.4m 2018 2017 16.4m 15.1m 15.2m 2016 2014 2015

International Visitor Arrivals

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 33 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Tourism Receipts Visitors spent more on Sightseeing, Entertainment & Gaming (+4%). Other TR Components rose (+17%) due to higher airfare revenue as more visitors arrived via local-based carriers. Declines were seen in Accommodation (-6%), Food & Beverage (-2%) and Shopping (-13%) due to a higher number by Major of day-trippers and multi-destination visitors who stayed fewer days. Components JANUARY TO DECEMBER 2018

TOURISM % SHARE OF TOURISM % CHANGE VS 2017 SHOPPING RECEIPTS RECEIPTS 2018 S$5.4b 20% -13%

TOURISM % SHARE OF TOURISM % CHANGE VS 2017 ACCOMMODATION RECEIPTS RECEIPTS 2018 S$5.7b 21% -6%

TOURISM % SHARE OF TOURISM % CHANGE VS 2017 FOOD & BEVERAGE RECEIPTS RECEIPTS 2018 S$2.6b 10% -2%

TOURISM % SHARE OF TOURISM % CHANGE VS 2017 SIGHTSEEING, RECEIPTS RECEIPTS 2018 ENTERTAINMENT & GAMING S$5.9b 22% +4%

TOURISM % SHARE OF TOURISM % CHANGE VS 2017 OTHER TR RECEIPTS RECEIPTS 2018 COMPONENTS S$7.4b 28% +17% Expenditure is estimated from Overseas Visitor Survey. Other TR Components include expenditure on airfares on Singapore-based carriers, port taxes, local transportation, business, medical, education and transit visitors.

* Sightseeing, Entertainment & Gaming includes entrance fees to attractions and nightspots, expenditure on day-tours, leisure events and entertainment at the Integrated Resorts.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 34 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Tourism Receipts By Tourism receipts came in at S$26.9 billion with China (S$3,914 million), Indonesia (S$2,855 million) and India (S$1,746 million) making up the top three markets. Among the top 10 TR markets, Indonesia, India and Japan registered the highest Major Components, absolute year-on-year growth in TR. Top 10 Markets JANUARY TO DECEMBER 2018

TR* % VA % CHANGE CHANGE VS 2017 VS 2017 2018 TR*

+1% +6% CHINA 47% 20% 7% 26% S$3,914m

+8% +2% INDONESIA 28% 16% 10% 47% S$2,855m

+13% +13% INDIA 17% 38% 13% 31% S$1,746m

+4% +2% AUSTRALIA 15% 30% 13% 43% S$1,302m

+10% +5% JAPAN 14% 36% 10% 40% S$1,099m

-2% +7% MALAYSIA 28% 22% 13% 37% S$824m

-6% +14% USA 14% 40% 16% 30% S$732m

-6% +6% PHILIPPINES 22% 31% 17% 30% S$682m

+7% +11% VIETNAM 27% 20% 11% 42% S$672m

-14% 0% SOUTH KOREA 16% 37% 14% 34% S$664m

SHOPPING ACCOMMODATION FOOD & BEVERAGE OTHER TR COMPONENTS

Expenditure is estimated from Overseas Visitor Survey. Other TR Components include expenditure on airfares on Singapore-based carriers, port taxes, local transportation, business, medical, education and transit visitors.

* Sightseeing, Entertainment & Gaming has been excluded in the country analysis due to commercial sensitivity of information.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 35 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 MARKETING SINGAPORE TO THE WORLD

Amidst an increasingly competitive global landscape and a rapidly-evolving marketing environment, STB continues to sharpen our marketing efforts of Destination Singapore to support the industry’s growth ambitions. To reach today’s discerning and tech-savvy consumers, we are investing in agile, bold and creative destination marketing strategies and game- changing marketing systems that enable us to capitalise on changing trends and emerging opportunities. Marketing Singapore to the World STB LAUNCHES 2ND WAVE OF PASSION MADE POSSIBLE (PMP)

The Passion Made Possible brand continued to celebrate Singapore’s people, talent and GLOBAL stories. In August 2018, STB launched the AUDIENCE second wave of its global brand campaign. REACH: Three new Passion Tribes - Culture Shapers > 1.4 BILLION (who enjoy immersing in arts and culture), Socialisers (who thrive on the energy of nightlife and entertainment), and Action Seekers (who seek action and excitement) - were introduced, adding to the four tribes of Foodies, Collectors, Explorers and Progressors, which were launched earlier to entice visitors to discover and cultivate their passions and interests in Singapore.

In line with the 2017 brand launch CAMPAIGN campaign, the second wave featured some 80 homegrown talents representing the seven VIDEO VIEWS: Passion Tribes. The likes of contemporary > 763 MILLION artist Jahan Loh, DJ KoFlow, founders of bookbinding company Bynd Artisan Winnie Chan and James Quan, and culinary teacher Ruqxana Vasanwala, amongst many others, appeared in a range of activities, from promotional events overseas to short films.

STB rolled out in-country consumer events, industry partnerships and integrated marketing campaigns in 19 markets, bringing Singapore music, arts and culture to our international audience. Activities included lively INTERNATIONAL sing-offs in the Philippines and South Korea MEDIA VALUE: which offered audiences the chance to win a trip to Singapore, and pop-up art showcase > S$165 MILLION Atypical Singapore featuring augmented reality technology in India, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and Russia.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 37 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

LEVERAGING PROMOTING CREATIVITY TO SINGAPORE AS A PROMOTE DESTINATION LEADING BUSINESS SINGAPORE EVENTS DESTINATION

• STB launched the $1 million Fast Forward STB continued to market Singapore as a fund to inspire film, video and animation destination where the Progressor tribe can fulfil companies to develop content that creatively their passion for growth. features Singapore and brings to life the Passion Made Possible brand. Among the 105 • 2018 saw two strategically significant entries received, STB selected five projects meetings held in Singapore, attesting to from four applicants: The Creative Room; our standing as a destination of choice Hummingbird Co.; MM2 Entertainment; and for business events, namely the historic Rifyal Giffari. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea- United States Singapore Summit between • The second edition of STB’s Marketing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Innovation Programme, which offered President Donald Trump on 12 June, and dollar-for-dollar support of up to $300,000 the inaugural Bloomberg New Economy to cover campaign marketing costs, received Forum from 6-7 November. Leveraging these strong interest. Seven businesses across events, STB launched digital and social media the media, F&B and e-commerce industries campaigns to showcase our MICE industry’s were awarded up to S$1.3 million in total to event organising capabilities, as well as support innovative marketing campaigns that spotlighting the Marina Bay area and Sentosa, tell compelling stories of Singapore. where the events were held, as top MICE venues in Singapore. • STB created Merli, an endearing and whimsical character based on Singapore’s • STB’s co-marketing efforts of box-office hitCrazy Rich Asians included co-hosting the official • Together with the Singapore Economic mythical icon, to embody the Passion Made after-party in Los Angeles in August 2018 with Warner Bros., and the roll-out of a three-day public Development Board, STB partnered global Possible brand and build strong emotional pop-up event “Crazy Rich Singapore Week”, which brought together food, cocktails, art and music business media groups Bloomberg and connections with families with young from Singaporean talents. STB also co-produced a series of videos with Warner Bros., showcasing CNN in global media campaigns to profile children. Merli is now featured in global Singaporean cast members sharing stories about the locations and cultures shown in the movie. Singapore as a premier destination for marketing efforts to reach this key consumer business events with thriving industries at segment. the forefront of innovation, such as fintech, advanced manufacturing and urban solutions.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 38 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

• STB maintained a strong presence at key • STB and Sentosa Development Corporation: • STB and Changi Airport Group (CAG) Changi Stopovers marketing partnership. STB and MICE tradeshows such as IMEX Frankfurt, Epic Adventures from the Island Beyond. CAG co-invested S$3.2 million in a two-year marketing partnership to encourage passengers IMEX Vegas and IBTM Barcelona, and This co-branded campaign not only travelling through Changi Airport to enjoy a Singapore stopover holiday. Transfer passengers delighted planners and buyers with local amplified thePassion Made Possible brand currently make up about 30 per cent of Changi Airport’s total traffic, with Australia and India experiences such as Kway Guan Huat Joo but also increased awareness of Sentosa’s being top contributors. The campaign has garnered 256 million impressions and 23.7 million Chiat Popiah’s kueh pie tee and cocktails by unique experiences through its own Passion videos clicks as at December 2018. home-grown mixologists from Native and Ambassadors tied to the Foodie, Explorer and Operation Dagger. Action Seeker tribes. Flowboarder Melissa Kamil from Wave House Sentosa, arborist • The Chinese and Japanese language versions Daniel Seah, and celebrity chef Sam Leong of the VisitSingapore.com/MICE website were and his son Joe from Forest were just some launched in 2018 to better engage business of the local talents featured. 森Their inspiring event owners and planners. In development stories garnered 50 million impressions are similar websites in German, Bahasa across various print and digital platforms. Indonesia, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese. • STB’s and Alipay’s Get Rewarded for Every Spend. This joint campaign aimed to raise destination awareness of Singapore and MARKETING drive Chinese tourist spending, in particular PARTNERSHIPS to encourage payment with Alipay while in Singapore. Average spend per user increased TO DRIVE VISITOR 29 per cent from RMB1,945 to RMB2,522 ARRIVALS & SPEND while average transactions per user increased from 2.88 to 3.67. In 2018, STB continued to closely collaborate with partners within and outside the travel • STB-Sentosa-Alipay: “cashless smart island”. industry to deliver high-quality experiences to STB and Alipay teamed up with Sentosa our visitors and promote Destination Singapore. to offer seamless access to Sentosa’s attractions, F&B and retail outlets through the • STB and Spotify: Beats of Singapore. STB and Alipay smartphone app. Based on preliminary Spotify jointly rolled out Beats of Singapore, results, Sentosa merchants’ adoption of Alipay a marketing campaign that taps on music increased from 30 to 70 per cent, and there and shared passions to connect communities were more than 1,800 Sentosa membership around Southeast Asia. Between September redemptions, indicating strong consumer and December 2018, more than 2,100 awareness and participation. submissions were received from Spotify users in Singapore who were invited to contribute to Singapore’s soundscape by recommending songs evocative of their favourite places and activities in Singapore. Playlists were formed to match STB’s passion tribes, which are groupings of consumers based on their lifestyles, interests and what they travel for.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 39 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

• STB-Qantas-Changi Airport Group (CAG) • STB, Changi Airport Group (CAG) and Costa Campaign. STB, Qantas and CAG inked a Cruises Tripartite Partnership. STB, CAG and S$5 million three-year partnership to Costa Cruises entered into a second tripartite promote Singapore as a stopover destination partnership to leverage Costa’s global and connecting gateway to Asia, Europe and presence, Singapore’s cruise hub status Australia. The partnership resulted in joint and Changi Airport’s air hub connectivity to marketing campaigns in Australia, UK and further enhance Southeast Asia’s appeal as a Southeast Asia to promote travel on Qantas cruise destination. This is expected to bring in services via Singapore. The co-branding over 100,000 international fly-cruise visitors campaign featured a two-minute film “Sides to Singapore over three years. of Singapore” showcasing the different Singapore experiences of a foodie, explorer • STB and Tourism Malaysia: Passport2Nature and socialiser, and four 30-second short films Programme. STB and Tourism Malaysia on the three passion tribes. co-launched the Passport 2 Nature programme to promote Singapore’s Sungei • Partnership with Cruise Lines International Buloh Wetland Reserve and Malaysia’s Pulau Association (CLIA). STB partnered CLIA to Kukup Johor National Park to nature-loving conduct training programmes, destination visitors and families. workshops and trade familiarisations for more than 800 travel agents across 8 markets. To drive sales of cruise packages that bundled extended pre- and post-Singapore experiences, STB rolled out joint marketing campaigns with 14 travel agents that brought in 13,000 cruise passengers from China, India, Malaysia and Australia.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 40 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

IN-COUNTRY MARKETING

Australia The showcase of Singapore’s vibrant nightlife China Nathan Hartono, Joanna Dong, DJ KoFlow, In 2018, visitor arrivals from Australia grew included signature cocktails created by For the second consecutive year, China topped and notable mixologists from Bitters & Love and 2 per cent and tourism receipts grew 4 per Singapore bars Native and Operation Dagger the lists for Singapore’s visitor arrivals and Nutmeg & Clove. The two events generated an cent, driven by strong growth in Australian – also amongst the World’s 50 Best Bars, a tourism receipts, which reached 3.4 million estimated media value of S$4.2 million and outbound travel and increased flight bespoke menu of Singapore-inspired canapés (+6%) and S$3.2 billion (+3%), respectively. Key 160 million impressions. connectivity to Singapore from key cities created by MasterChef Australia 2018 winner contributors to the strong results were STB’s including Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Sashi Cheliah, and performances by focused marketing in Tier 1 and 2 cities, and STB embarked on a new partnership with home-grown Singapore artistes DJ KoFlow enhanced flight connectivity from cities such Singaporean fashion brand, Charles & Keith, to STB launched the second wave of its Passion and Tabitha Nauser. as Nanchang, Haikou, Jinan and Nanning. create the “One and Only” Crossover event in Made Possible campaign in Australia, with a Chengdu. The 30-day programme comprised focus on the Socialiser tribe. Two-day “bar STB organised BTMICE roadshows in Sydney In the second wave of its Passion Made Possible a series of activations featuring a fashion show, takeover” events held in Sydney and Melbourne and Melbourne, where 110 Professional brand marketing, STB organised a series of signature cocktail parties, and interactive in February 2019 attracted more than 2,200 Conference Organisers and corporate unique events to target Socialiser Tribe travellers workshops. These new touchpoints opened visitors and generated over S$2.6 million in clients networked with 17 Singapore BTMICE in major Chinese cities. These included a ‘Born doors to more diverse audiences and provided media coverage. organisers and suppliers. Digital and online to Be Wild’-themed Secret Party in Shanghai, an integrated platform to strengthen ties with MICE marketing also reached more than and a bar takeover and party in Guangzhou. trade partners, media partners and the general 30,000 readers. The parties introduced Brand Personalities like public across China.

STB launched the second wave of its Passion Made“ Possible campaign in Australia, with a focus on the Socialiser tribe.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 41 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

Beyond that, STB continued to work closely series of targeted marketing and promotion Europe (SSC). Featuring the first-ever collaboration with digital partners like Ctrip, MaFengWo, efforts, launched MICE mini-programmes to Visitor arrivals from European source between chefs from three Singapore Michelin Meituan-Dianping and Tuniu, as well as travel provide trade partners with more information, markets grew despite market uncertainties, restaurants – Odette, Candlenut and Corner agency partners. The partnership with Ctrip and enhanced our dedicated MICE travel contributing to 2018’s record visitor arrivals House – and mixologists from three of expanded to include industry development WeChat service account with more content. and tourism receipts. Visitor arrivals from eight Singapore’s Top 50 Best bars – Manhattan, with Singapore tour operators, deepening STB also organised the annual China MICE of Singapore’s top 10 European source markets Native, Operation Dagger, the SSC included a their understanding of the Chinese market. Conference and familiarisation trips where including the UK, Germany and France hit specially-curated Singapore-inspired three- Marketing campaigns were also launched in both Chinese and Singapore stakeholders record highs, growing 14 per cent, 4 per cent, course pairing menu, along with entertainment tandem with the summer holidays or occasions exchanged industry knowledge and obtained and 17 per cent respectively. by Singaporean DJs A Phat Cat Collective. like the Chinese Valentine’s Day. updates on the latest MICE offerings in The three-night event was fully booked within Singapore. In London, STB partnered with well-known a week of launch, which generated S$548,505 In 2018, STB stepped up efforts to reach the lifestyle brand and restaurant group D&D of media coverage and a social media reach BTMICE market in China and undertook a London to organise the Singapore Supper Club of 723,370.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 42 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

Partnering with Singapore Airlines and Changi 1. Cultivated and deepened relationships with Airport Group, STB successfully promoted the event owners and corporates to secure Singapore Stopover Holidays to foodies. Over high-value business leads. Some of the three days at KERB Kings Cross, Hawker Chan notable events secured in 2018 include hosted 31 media and influencer guests and the Internet Engineering Task Force 2019, served nearly 2,000 food portions from the Bureau of International Recycling pop-up food trucks, which resulted in social Convention & Exhibition 2019 and the IFA media reach of more than 14 million. Crossroads Asia-Pacific Conference 2018;

In June 2018, Scoot launched its inaugural 2. Stepped up our participation in international non-stop flights between Singapore and tradeshows (e.g. IMEX Frankfurt, IBTM Berlin. STB collaborated with Scoot over a Barcelona, M&I Forums, Meetings UK, 9-month period to increase mindshare of Association World Congress, European Singapore. This comprised a launch event Association Summit, Hannover Messe) and attended by over 100 guests from the media organised familiarisation trips for key MICE and travel trade, a radio campaign that reached stakeholders across Europe. more than 3.5 million listeners and 25,000 views on the website, and a digital campaign 3. Ramped up on PR and marketing to that generated 8 million online impressions. enhance awareness of Singapore’s value proposition and attractiveness. For instance, In Moscow, STB organised the first Singapore STB partnered with key MICE media, C&IT festival at the Flacon Design Factory in in the UK to not only expand our marketing September 2018. Drawing more than 25,000 outreach, but also leveraged C&IT’s network Muscovites over two days, and generating over to organise a roundtable networking session S$431,273 in media value, the multi-faceted with 20 of the UK’s top 50 M&I agents. event featured authentic Singaporean cuisine and cooking master classes, and modern and traditional ethnic Singaporean musical talents.

Singapore continues to be an attractive MICE destination with growing interest from European meeting planners and business event owners. To pursue more of Europe’s BTMICE business, STB undertook the following key initiatives:

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 43 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

India India remained the number one cruise source STB ran joint marketing promotions with market for Singapore, with cruise passenger key pan-India and regional travel partners, traffic jumping 27 per cent in 2018. Visitor including Thomas Cook India’s initiative to arrivals from India grew significantly by 13 per feature iconic Singapore locations in the cent year-on-year to reach 1.4 million, whilst longest running family comedy show in India tourism receipts increased 13 per cent to - Tarakh Mehta Ka Olta Chasma. The seven reach S$1.7 billion. Travel trade partnerships episodes won more than 7.8 million views on and creative marketing efforts in key metro YouTube. Our partnership with Tripoto, one of and secondary cities paid off as visitor arrivals the fastest-growing global travel communities, grew strongly at 8 per cent and 12 per cent also produced India’s first travel web series respectively. Greater flight connectivity to ‘Trails 2 Passion – Singapore Redefined’ to Singapore through new flights originating from engage with Indian millennials. The series cities such as Guwahati, Pune and Vijayawada1 garnered over 5 million views on YouTube. contributed to this visitor growth.

STB secured and facilitated several notable STB engaged diverse audiences across India incentive travel groups including Voltas through a series of innovative media and Limited, Bharati Cements and Amway India artistic talent collaborations. STB was the first Enterprises (the largest incentive movement to tourism organisation in India to partner with date from India, with about 4,000 participants). popular music channel Vh1 India to produce an English music video ‘Unstoppable’. The To strengthen Singapore’s appeal as a MICE India-Singapore talent collaboration featured destination for other Indian corporates, prominent artistes including Grammy Award- STB organised a MICE Forum in Mumbai nominated Indian-American artiste Ms. Raja for over 120 meetings and incentive travel Kumari and popular Singaporean B-Boying intermediaries. Participants were engaged crew ‘Radikal Forze’. To connect with South in a panel discussion themed “How can STB engaged Indian regional audiences, STB collaborated the MICE industry leverage technology to “ with legendary Indian music-composer better engage with their audience?”. STB diverse audiences maestro, Isainyani Ilaiyaraaja to produce a also collaborated with Travel Biz Monitor, series of music and thematic destination a fortnightly travel trade magazine in India, across India videos. to put out an advertorial feature and digital through a series of marketing content that highlighted unique MICE offerings in Singapore and STB’s MICE innovative media incentive schemes. Outreach efforts included and artistic talent pitch sessions with corporates directly and through incentive travel intermediary partners collaborations. in major cities, like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai.

1 Direct connections from Pune and Vijayawada have ceased. Pune flights operated by Jet Airways have ceased operations since April 2019 and Vijayawada flights operated by IndiGO have ceased operations since July 2019.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 44 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World Indonesia awareness about Singapore’s destination Indonesia continues to be an important source offerings. The three episodes exceeded targets, market for Singapore, registering a 2 per cent garnering 463,000 views from Facebook and growth in visitor arrivals and 8 per cent growth YouTube. in tourism receipts in 2018. STB, Northstar Travel Group and the Cruise To launch the second wave of Passion Lines International Association in Indonesia Made Possible in Jakarta, STB collaborated launched their inaugural partnership at with Urban Sneaker Society (USS) and three CruiseWorld Indonesia. More than 150 Singaporean retail partners – Sabotage, Limited partners, comprising various cruise liner Edt and Flesh Imp – to promote Singapore’s partners and travel agents specialising in cruise streetwear and entertainment scene with selling, attended the one-day conference an event at the popular Pacific Place Mall, which also offered comprehensive agent followed by a party at the UNA Bar of Pullman training and cruise line product updates. Hotel on the opening night. At the USS event, the original Passion Cube passion tribe analyser Following the 2017 opening of STB’s regional was also introduced for attendees to discover office in Surabaya, STB focused its efforts their tribe identity through music. on expanding our footprint in more cities and new consumer segments. One of the STB became the first National Tourism initiatives was STB Surabaya’s collaboration Organisation to embark on a web campaign with Zoya, a leading Muslim apparel brand with partnership in Indonesia by working with an online sales platform and 140 retail outlets Kumparan.com on an online video series in Indonesia, to reach regional consumers, titled “Mereka yang hidupkan mimpi” to raise particularly millennials.

One of the initiatives was STB Surabaya’s collaboration“ with Zoya, a leading Muslim apparel brand with an online sales platform and 140 retail outlets in Indonesia, to reach regional consumers, particularly millennials.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 45 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World Japan that premiered in Japan on 9 March 2019. Malaysia Japan visitor arrivals grew 5 per cent to reach The movie showcased prominent Singapore In 2018, visitor arrivals from Malaysia increased its highest level in five years with nearly landmarks, and garnered over S$2.9 million by 7 per cent. 830,000 visitors, whilst tourism receipts in media coverage. STB also partnered with jumped 10 per cent. The significant growth Keisuke Ramen to create the bak kut teh ramen STB and Singapore’s National Arts Council was driven by a comprehensive tourism for six outlets in Tokyo. (NAC) presented ConneXions: Passion Made revitalisation strategy that included enhancing Possible, a cultural showcase that took centre flight connectivity and seat capacity from For MICE, STB organised the first Singapore stage at the George Town Festival 2018 in various cities, as well as innovative partnerships Business Events Networking Seminar to drive Penang, on its closing weekend from 31 August with Japanese trade partners. business development efforts for exhibitions to 2 September 2018. The three-day showcase and conferences, raise awareness of Singapore highlighted the strong ties between the two To further strengthen the Passion Made as the preferred MICE destination hub and cities that celebrates creativity, arts and culture, Possible brand and destination awareness, STB increase awareness and build attendance for with Singapore as a UNESCO Creative City reappointed local celebrity Saitoh Takumi as Singapore flagship events. In October, of Design and George Town, Penang as a ‘Singapore Tourism Ambassador’ for Japan for STB also launched a Japanese language site UNESCO World Heritage Site. another year and featured him in three brand for visitsingapore.com/MICE to provide videos developed for Foodies, Explorers and localised and up-to-date information for Some of the event highlights were a mural Culture Shapers. Takumi also starred in Ramen Japanese event planners. collaboration between Akid One and SKL0, Teh, a movie by Singaporean director Eric Khoo a Nam Hwa Teochew Opera performance featuring 15-year-old Tan Wei Tian, and a stage performance of Tabitha Nauser with Yung Raja at China House, Penang. The Singapore Designers’ Showcase at Art Lane saw some nine Singaporean designers and five Singaporean labels showcase their products for sale or display, such as YeoMama Batik and EDEN + ELIE. There was also a Malaysia- Singapore menu collaboration featuring Chef Damian D’Silva from Folklore Singapore and Chef Zainal, China House, complemented with special drinks mixed by Matthew Chan of Nouri’s Singapore.

STB partnered with the prestigious UNRESERVED magazine to target affluent Malaysians through a year-end campaign showcasing Singapore’s shopping and Christmas celebrations. A 10-page Christmas Guide was published in the magazine’s December issue, featuring luxury collector and foodie experiences. The guide was repurposed for online and social media, reaching more than 23,000 over a 3-month period.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 46 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World South Korea STB also signed a Memorandum of In 2018, South Korean visitor arrivals held Cooperation (MoC) with the Busan constant from 2017. Metropolitan City government to enhance tourism collaboration and promote stronger In October 2018, STB partnered with luxury tourism traffic between Singapore and Busan. beauty brand HERA to commemorate the opening of HERA’s first Southeast Asia flagship To raise awareness of Singapore as the store in Singapore. The collaboration with preferred business events destination for event Seoul-based fashion designers, Blindness, planners in Seoul, STB Korea organised a ‘MICE resulted in the limited edition 2018 Holiday Travel Talk Show’ with celebrity ‘Kim Su-ro’ in Collection, comprising a Singapore-inspired July. The activity drove business development eco-bag and gift box, featuring the Merlion work for our M&I portfolio and generated and ‘duality’ theme to showcase Singapore’s leads rate for corporate travel. To capture the contrasting destination offerings. The demand of M&I business in the pharmaceutical collection was launched at HERA Seoul sector in Korea, STB Korea also engaged the Fashion Week and an event at the National Pharmaceutical Association in Korea and Gallery in Singapore which was attended by co-organised a networking session for their over 100 social media influencers, media and members in November 2018. key clients.

The Philippines three-night event, which saw artists from Visitor arrivals from the Philippines grew 6 per both countries share the stage, played to a full cent in 2018. house of over 300 attendees. The event was oversubscribed by nearly 50 per cent, whilst Tapping on the nation’s love for music and campaign posts on STB Philippines’ Facebook singing, the three-day SINGapore Karaoke page reached more than 2.6 million people. “In October 2018, STB partnered event attracted more than 5,000 visitors and 280 participants who sang to win a free STB held a dedicated MICE roadshow to with luxury beauty brand HERA trip to Singapore. Visitors were treated to update key travel trade in Manila on the latest to commemorate the opening daily performances by Filipino singers and MICE offerings in Singapore, and to connect celebrities, including UDD, who performed them with Singapore tourism partners. Over of HERA’s first Southeast Asia their Singapore-inspired original composition 120 agents attended the event and networked flagship store in Singapore. “All the good things”. The event achieved a with 25 Singapore partners, ranging from reach of over 4.1 million. airlines, attractions, cruise liners, hotels and tour operators. The event provided valuable To reach the Socialisers, STB organised leads which led to the securing of incentive Singapore Nights to showcase the best of groups that will visit Singapore. Coupled with Singapore’s music and nightlife. Three of the year-long efforts to cultivate both Filipino Asia’s 50 Best Bars in Singapore – Manhattan, agents and corporates, BTMICE arrivals and Native, and Nutmeg & Clove – performed a tourism receipts from the Philippines grew by 3 bar takeover at Manila’s top bar, Curator. The per cent and 5 per cent respectively in 2018.

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Thailand 81,000 Facebook engagements and 393,000 Visitor arrivals from Thailand grew by 3 per YouTube views. Singapore restaurant reviews cent in 2018. jumped 133 per cent.

STB worked with well-known Thai social To ignite interest amongst the Culture media influencers hip-hop artist “Way” Intachai Shapers in Thailand, STB Thailand organised and his wife, well-known celebrity and car an arts and culture showcase named ‘The racer “Nana” Rybena, on an initial two-week Unknown World’ Art Exhibition which included ‘teaser’ campaign to connect with Socialisers the Atypical Singapore Art Exhibition and a and Action Seekers. This was followed by collaborative mural between well-known a familiarisation trip to Singapore for the Singapore (Samantha Lo a.k.a SKL0) and Thai extended Intachai family and close friends, (Rukkit Kuanhawate) artists, right in the heart along with another 10 hosted media and social of Bangkok at the Bangkok Art and Culture influencers, to experience Grand Prix Season Centre. Singapore. To drive BTMICE travellers to Singapore, STB A one-year collaboration with Wongnai, worked with business titles such as “The Thailand’s top food review media with 8 Matter” and “The Standard” to feature Thai million active users, enabled STB to engage companies who were inspired by Singapore’s with Foodies in Thailand. A food review trip to success story. STB also secured corporate Singapore for popular Wongnai duo, Nai Hoi incentive groups for important Thai corporates Chuan Chim, resulted in a two-minute video such as Cafe Amazon, the VIPs group from ‘Local Dishes, Local Recommends - Must Try Michelin Siam Co., Ltd., Goldenland PCL, and in Singapore’, which drew 1.7 million views, Giffarine Skyline Unity Co., Ltd.

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STB partnered with“ Warner Bros. to leverage the Crazy Rich Asians film release to promote Singapore in a series of multi-channel marketing events and activities.

United States locations and cultures featured in the movie. STB partnered Travel Leaders Group (TLG), STB continued working with key meeting Visitor arrivals jumped by 14 per cent in 2018, Media partnerships with outlets WhoWhatWear, the largest agency franchisor, consortia and partners including the American Society of driven by positive economic conditions MyDomaine and YouTube also created custom host agency in North America. In addition to Association Executives (ASAE), PCMA, Maritz/ and increased air connectivity from USA content and amplified video content produced advertising on TLG’s B2B and B2C publications, Experient and Helmsbriscoe to reach meeting to Singapore. by STB and Warner Bros. the partnership also gave STB access to the planners. STB also collaborated with EDB and travel agents from the group’s premium MAS on a seminar to shed light on Singapore’s STB partnered with Warner Bros. to leverage Through a partnership with top US reality TV agencies - ProTravel and Tzell - and their medical and financial sectors as a way of the Crazy Rich Asians film release to promote show The Bachelor, Singapore was featured as corporate and leisure customer bases. further engaging with executives from ASAE. Singapore in a series of multi-channel the first international destination in the show’s marketing events and activities. One of the 23rd season. Aired on US network ABC, the STB also embarked on an integrated marketing STB also undertook a three-month campaign highlights was the Crazy Rich Singapore two-hour Singapore episode showcased partnership with United Airlines (UA) and with Northstar Meetings Group which saw the Week in LA, which featured Singapore Singapore’s destination offerings, generating Changi Airport Group. This campaign spanned creation of a Singapore Destination Guide on personalities showcasing interactive and over 272 million impressions from earned high-impact digital and social media platforms, Northstar’s new online platform for meeting sensory experiences through Singapore food, media coverage on Singapore. as well as captive in-flight and in-airport media planners. The campaign received over 360,000 cocktails, art and music. In a series of Crazy channels, and was the first we had embarked impressions during this period. Rich Experiences videos, three of the film’s STB forged important new partnerships to on with UA on this scale. Singaporean cast shared stories behind the further entrench our product and branding into far and wide reaching platforms.

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Vietnam In 2018, arrivals from Vietnam grew 11 per cent whilst tourism receipts increased 5 per cent.

STB, in collaboration with ZOUK Singapore, Tippling Club Singapore and the popular new rooftop bar in Ho Chi Minh City SkyXX Garden & Lounge, officially launched the Socialiser Tribe as part of the second wave of the Passion Made Possible campaign in Vietnam. A new music video embodying the Socialiser spirit “Đi đi chần chờ chi”– the result of a collaboration between famous Vietnamese singer/music producer Only C and Singaporean rapper ShiGGa Shay – gained 12.6 million views on social media, and topped Vietnam’s top music streaming platform Zing’s daily chart. STB also partnered with SIA, Scoot and Vietravel to push out relevant travel deals.

Singapore continues to be an important Meetings and Incentives (M&I) destination for the Vietnam market. In FY18/19, STB focused on ramping up efforts to reach the M&I decision-makers, contributing tourism spending of almost S$3 million for the year.

STB also organised a number of corporate familiarisation trips involving 45 corporates from Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. The itineraries offered a deeper insight into Singapore’s history and culture, and a variety of experiences ranging from Peranakan history and food, and Singapore nightlife. Site inspections incorporated unique event and meeting venues in Singapore. STB also provided more information on our M&I support schemes (Beis, INSPIRE, STARS). This resulted in a securing of a number of incentive groups from Vietnamese corporates.

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NEW MARKETS Myanmar South Africa Cambodia Bangladesh The Singapore Festival 2018 was held at the STB, together with six other partners, held a STB partnered with the Cambodian STB conducted a product upper block of Bogalay Zay Street, a 250-metre series of roadshows across Johannesburg, Broadcasting Services (CBS) to create and film update seminar and a corporate stretch of major thoroughfare in downtown Cape Town and Durban, updating 250 travel a 16 x 3-minute episode travelogue series titled networking dinner in Dhaka in late Yangon. The street was pedestrianised for agents on Singapore’s latest offerings in “Kompul Neak Tesachar” (The Best Traveller), November 2018. 15 Singapore three days for the festival, which drew 120,000 Leisure, MICE and Cruise. which featured a range of Singapore products stakeholders attended both visitors. A cornerstone of the Festival was and travel tips. The show was hosted by local events, and had the opportunity to the design and co-creation of community YouTube star ZK Frost. engage over 20 travel agents and installations and street landscaping with the 15 corporates from Bangladesh. resident community, both to spruce up the STB also partnered with Singapore street before the event, as well as to leave Airlines for corporate familiarisation behind a tangible, usable exemplification of trips for their key MICE Passions and Possibilities. stakeholders in September 2018.

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• The Innovation Challenge for Attractions • The guide and the directory were developed launched on 14 January 2019 aims to following feedback from focus group BUILDING INDUSTRY foster technology adoption and enable discussions and interviews with industry the attractions industry to stay ahead stakeholders representing more than COMPETITIVENESS of competition and continue capturing 40 international hotels, local chains and To enhance industry innovation and competitiveness, mindshare of the increasingly discerning boutique hotels. visitor. 12 attractions identified seven STB rolled out a number of initiatives in 2018 to transform challenge statements and become partners • In April, the HIC organised a Hotel Innovation tourism businesses, support skills upgrading and cultivate to trial and pilot proposed solutions. A total of Pitch for technology vendors and research 26 solutions were shortlisted for pitching at institutions to provide sourcing solutions a pro-business environment. the Industry Matchmaking Day, and six were for critical pain points in the housekeeping shortlisted for prototype development. and food and beverage (F&B) departments, to render these jobs less onerous for hotel TRANSFORMING Smart Hotel Initiatives employees. The seven shortlisted proposals • To encourage technology adoption and offered wide-ranging solutions, from robots TOURISM BUSINESSES innovation by hotels, STB and the Hotel for banquet set-up to assistive devices for Raising the Bar Through Smart Charter to assure stakeholders who share their Innovation Committee (HIC) launched the bed-making, which are now ready to be Tourism Services data with us, that their data, both business Smart Hotel Guide to help hotels identify and developed and piloted in hotels. To help industry embrace technological and personal, would be protected and used explore next-generation system capabilities disruption and deliver memorable customer responsibly. and technological solutions suited to each • A Hotel Innovation Case Study Video experiences, STB has invested and developed organisation’s needs. Series was also launched to share best tech a suite of smart tourism services that are Crowdsourcing for solutions through Tourism practices adopted by other hotels. available for industry use. These services Innovation Challenges The Smart Hotel Technology Guide raise the bar for the industry in the use of Expanding from the Hotels and Travel 2018 identifies relevant front-of-house advanced data analytics to drive better visitor Agents Innovation Challenges in 2017, STB operations technology for hotels to realise experiences, and include a recommendation introduced Innovation Challenges to the the vision of a smart hotel. The guide also engine, an itinerary planner and enhanced MICE and Attractions industries to help tackle included case studies of organisations way-finding tools. They can be accessed via common and longstanding industry challenges that have successfully implemented Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and drive competitiveness. More than 80 innovative solutions. Six hotel groups - from the Tourism Information and Services proposals have been received and more than Frasers Hospitality, Mandarin Oriental, Hub (TIH), and used to power the industry’s 40 solutions were piloted for the tourism Millennium and Copthorne Group, Hotel visitor facing channels. sector across the 4 industries. Bencoolen, Pan Pacific Hotel Group and Marina Bay Sands - have committed to Data Trust Charter • STB launched the first MICE Innovation adopting the Smart Hotel Guide in their STB developed and announced a Data Trust Challenge on 7 September 2018, in development journey. Charter to publicly commit to secure and partnership with the Singapore Association responsible data sharing and usage with of Conference and Exhibition Organisers The Hotel Technology Directory is a first tourism stakeholders. The Data Trust Charter and Suppliers (SACEOS). More than 80 MICE of its kind private sector collaboration to is fully aligned with Singapore’s data-related stakeholders were engaged in identifying make available an online resource of local laws and guidelines, and details the principles seven priority issues that the industry faces. and overseas vendors offering technology STB holds in high regard, such as maintaining The Call-for-Proposal resulted in a shortlist solutions for Singapore hotel businesses. impartiality, achieving common outcomes, of 27 solutions, of which six proposals were More than 70 local and foreign solution ensuring data confidentiality and protection of selected for prototyping. Development of the vendors were included in the online directory, data. We are the first Singapore government prototypes started in April 2019. providing hotels with a one-stop portal to agency to publicly communicate a Data Trust kick-start their transformation journey.

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Funding for Tourism Sector Tech Adoption Travel Agents and Tourist Guides • In 2018, STB’s Business Improvement Fund GROWING TALENT supported innovative technology projects POOL AND • Soft-launched in October 2018, the by 44 hotels and 55 travel agents – such as Area Tourist Guide (ATG) scheme aims self-check-in counters, data analytics, HONING SKILLS to encourage qualified individuals with robotics solutions, and business re-modelling knowledge in specific domain areas to share Hotel Careers Campaign – to boost productivity and competitiveness. their passion as guides in customised and 2018 marked the second year of the Hotel niche tours. It also allows tourist guides to Careers Campaign, a three-year joint initiative cater to the growing demand for interest- launched in July 2017 together with the based tours. As a start, the scheme is open Singapore Hotel Association, Food, Drinks and ESTABLISHING to individuals with domain knowledge in the Allied Workers Union, and the hotel industry to areas of Nature or Food, and more categories COMMON AND SECURED inspire Singaporeans to join the hotel industry. may be added in future. As of March 2019, 32 Key highlights include: DIGITAL AND DATA individuals have qualified under the scheme, including Ms Ow Chiann Huey (also known as PLATFORMS • Celebrity Hotel Challenge Video. In this “Miss Tam Chiak”) who applied as a Food STB-Pan Pacific Hotel partnership, Singapore Against the backdrop of increased cyber ATG, and Mr Tan Bian Hwee (a botanical celebrity Michelle Chong went undercover risks and the need to support the industry to consultant and nature educator, volunteering as a demanding hotel guest and tested transform, STB has strengthened cybersecurity with NParks since 2002), who applied as a Upskilling the workforce the mettle of unsuspecting hotel staff. policies, processes, infrastructure and adopted Nature ATG. Conceptualised to showcase the passion best practices to better manage risks and • STB worked with SkillsFuture Singapore, and professionalism of hotel employees, the improve returns on ICT investments. • As part of the Travel Agent Roadmap launched Workforce Singapore (WSG), industry video reached a total of 3.8 million people by STB and the National Association of Travel associations and training providers to jointly by the end of 2018, and drew positive public In the past year, we have: Agents Singapore (NATAS) in 2016, STB and develop the Skills Framework for Tourism. response. NATAS unveiled new and updated initiatives This one-stop portal provides information • Instituted a “shift left” framework to integrate to boost travel agent industry capabilities. such as sector trends, career pathways; • 100 Ambassadors of Happiness. The security testing of systems earlier and more These include a Travel Talent Transformation occupations and job roles, existing and campaign features 100 passionate and frequently in the development process & Management Programme to improve emerging skills, and training programmes. outstanding hotel employees from different through a security-by-design philosophy. HR practices and attract and retain workers, The initiative aims to attract and retain talent, job functions to inspire more locals to join a one-stop NATAS Resource Centre that help individuals manage their careers and the industry. Seven special series, from • Strengthened STB’s IT Security Incident Plan supports business transformation projects, skills development, and guide employers and a General Manager to an International for quicker response and management of and an updated Business Transformation training providers in identifying and designing Women’s Day series, were also produced with cyber threats and incidents. Through-Train Programme to guide the relevant training programmes to achieve different content partners to showcase the implementation of new business models. desired job roles. career progressions in the industry. • Created a Cybersecurity Pillar directly managed by the Chief Technology Officer • STB launched the Singapore City Tour • In 2018, 70 study awards were given out to • Open Hotels Weekend. The second edition to better coordinate and provide senior Playbook and Passion Made Possible applicants representing tourism sectors such in August 2018 involved 22 hotels offering 75 management guidance on cybersecurity Professional Development Course to help as hotels, MICE, attractions, travel agents and behind-the-scenes career tours. About 1,250 issues. improve storytelling capabilities for travel tourist guides to upskill their professional unique participants registered for the tours, agents and tourist guides. capabilities. a 60 per cent increase from 2017. The third • Implemented staff programmes such as edition in March 2019 saw a near two-fold regular “phishing” exercises, publication of increase in interest from hotels – 37 hotels security related articles, regular briefings on took part, attracting about 1,200 unique IT and data security, office walk-abouts to participants for the career tours and check on security compliance, etc. job interviews.

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RAISING INDUSTRY CULTIVATING A MARKETING PRO-BUSINESS CAPABILITIES ENVIRONMENT

STB Marketing College Amendments to the Travel Agents Act and Travel Agents Regulations • Launched at the STB Marketing Conference The industry welcomed two key regulatory 2018, the learning and development amendments that enhances consumer programme tailored for marketing protection and strengthens the regulatory professionals in the travel industry is gaining framework to ensure industry sustainability: traction. Its interactive online learning platform, STB Learning Portal, opened to • Travel agents who conduct local tours that industry partners in May 2018, offering six do not include accommodation can now modules of marketing concepts, case studies apply for a new ‘niche travel agent licence’ and tools for ‘always-on’ learning. with a lower paid-up capital and net worth requirement. This new tiered licensing • In January 2019, some 450 STB staff and scheme lowers entry barriers to build a more industry partners attended the second edition vibrant local tour scene. of the STB Marketing Conference. Four plenary sessions and three breakout sessions • A travel agent licence is no longer required provided insights from industry thought to offer local tours without passenger- leaders and experts around the theme of carrying conveyance. This deregulation Decoding the Evolving Consumer. has encouraged several tourist guides to introduce more innovative offerings for locals and visitors.

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• 43rd World Small Animal Veterinary • Singapore FinTech Festival 2018 (November). Association Congress (September). The 2018 A home-grown event, the Singapore FinTech ENHANCING DESTINATION world congress saw close to 3,000 attendees Festival has positioned Singapore as a from the global community of companion thought-leader in this fast-growing sector. ATTRACTIVENESS animal practitioners gather in Singapore, The 2018 edition drew close to 45,000 A vibrant and diverse calendar of business and leisure events to share the latest practices in veterinary participants from almost 130 countries, and is medicine for small animals. the world’s biggest gathering of global fintech enhances Singapore’s attractiveness as a lifestyle destination, industry professionals. so STB continually seeks to attract top-notch international • Women’s Forum Singapore 2018 (September). The inaugural edition in Asia • Bloomberg New Economy Forum events to Singapore while enhancing existing events. gathered over 800 delegates and 100 (November). More than 400 prominent speakers from various industry sectors across leaders and global CEOs came together in ASEAN, Europe, China, India and served as a Singapore to discuss challenging world issues MAINTAINING In 2018, some of the prominent events hosted platform to foster women’s leadership such as globalisation, trade, technology, by Singapore include: for social and economic progress around and climate change. High profile speakers SINGAPORE’S EDGE IN the world. included Michael R. Bloomberg, former BTMICE • Intel® Partner Connect (April). The Intel mayor of New York City; Wang Qishan, Partner Connect 2018 in Singapore saw more • Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific – Vice President of People’s Republic of China; than 1,000 Intel® Partner Providers connect Singapore was ranked the Top Asia-Pacific a Hannover Messe event (October). This Lee Kai-Fu, Founder, Chairman & Chief and engage on the latest technologies, is the world’s leading manufacturing- Executive Officer of Sinovation Ventures; Meeting city by the International Congress market trends and product innovations. and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings related trade exhibition and conference. Christine Lagarde, then-Managing Director of in 2017 for 16 consecutive years and was also The Singapore event was its first event the International Monetary Fund; and • Herbalife Southeast Asia Extravaganza 2018 outside Germany and welcomed over Dr. Henry A. Kissinger. named the Top International Meeting City (May). An annual education and training event by the Union of International Associations 15,000 attendees from 55 countries. for the Southeast Asia member community, Besides providing business opportunities • Amway India, Annual Leadership Summit (UIA) rankings 2017 for 10 years. In addition, the 3-day event brought together more Singapore was also named Top Asia-Pacific for Singapore companies, the event also 2018 (December). Amway India organised than 10,000 independent members from 14 reinforced Singapore’s reputation as a hub for a special programme for Amway Business Destination for the second consecutive year in countries in Asia Pacific region. Cvent’s rankings of Top Meeting Destinations in high-value manufacturing with world-class Owners and their families as part of the engineering and innovation capabilities. organisation’s 20th anniversary celebrations. Asia-Pacific for 2017. • Medical Fair Asia & Medical Manufacturing th This is one of the largest incentive groups Asia 2018 (August). Now in its 12 edition in • 28th World Congress on Ultrasound in that Singapore has hosted from India, with In partnership with the events and conference Singapore, this biennial tradeshow attracted organisers, STB undertook business Obstetrics and Gynaecology (October). This attendance by more than 3,000 delegates over 800 exhibitors from 62 countries, and five-day world congress is the main annual over five days. development efforts throughout 2018 to drive 15,000 participants. The event showcased quality business leads. This included having a scientific meeting for clinicians around the innovative medical technologies, healthcare world who use or research ultrasound in prominent presence at the major international seminars and workshops, and dedicated MICE tradeshows and events such as IMEX this field. The Singapore edition achieved a pavilions for Community Care and Start-Ups. double record in its history – a turnout of Frankfurt, IMEX Vegas, IBTM Barcelona as well It served as a valuable regional sourcing and as association-specific platforms like the ICCA more than 2,400 delegates and the highest knowledge platform for leading global and overall satisfaction scores from attendees. Congress and UIA Roundtable. STB has also led regional healthcare manufacturers, suppliers, business development efforts through mega- distributors, and trade professionals. familiarisation trips for international meeting planners and corporate clients and organised roadshows in our key markets.

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In 2018, STB also secured several business • On the applied health sciences and events for 2019 and beyond, including: innovation front, Singapore will welcome the International Team for Implantology • On the Professional Services front, the Baker (ITI) World Symposium 2020, the 11th Tilly International Global Tax Conference International Agency for the Prevention of 2019 & Baker Tilly International World Blindness (IAPB) General Assembly 2020 and Conference 2019, as well as the Kaspersky the International Conference on Medical Security Analyst Summit 2019. Together with Imaging Computing and Computer-Assisted other business events in the cluster, these Intervention 2022 (MICCAI) in coming years. international corporate conferences events These events will see over 7,000 international are expected to draw close to 10,500 foreign delegates gather to exchange knowledge, delegates to Singapore. share expertise and advance their societies’ development and causes in Singapore. • The INSOL 2019 Annual Regional Conference and the Asian Patent Attorneys Other Initiatives Association (APAA) General Assembly and • Asia-Pacific Executive Development Council Meeting 2022. Programme. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a joint Asia- • In the Technology sector, Oracle OpenWorld Pacific Executive Development Programme Asia 2019 and the SAP Field Kick-Off Meeting (AEDP) was signed at the Singapore MICE (2020 and 2021). Close to 6,000 international Forum (SMF) 2018 between the Singapore delegates are expected for the secured Association of Conventions & Exhibition business events in the Technology sector. Organisers & Suppliers (SACEOS) and UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry. • For the F&B cluster, the Southeast Asia Café The initiative, facilitated by STB, is intended to Expo, Equip&Dine Asia 2019 and the Global enhance the skills of exhibition professionals Restaurant Leadership Conference 2019. in Singapore and the region. Food&HotelAsia (FHA), Asia’s largest and most comprehensive international trade and networking event for the food and hospitality industry, will expand their show into two dedicated events: FHA-HoReCa and FHA-F&B, in March/early April 2020. This is expected to bring in over 45,000 international delegates to network, trade and share best practices.

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MAINTAINING A VIBRANT LEISURE EVENTS CALENDAR ANCHORING BRANDED EVENTS • HSBC Women’s World Championship 2019. HSBC Women’s World Championship Sports (HHWC) 2019 saw a total attendance of To appeal to sports fans in Singapore and 32,000 across four days, as the world’s top from around the world, Singapore continued female golfers battled it out for the title. to invest in major international sporting South Korean Sung-Hyun Park won by two events, including: shots to take home her sixth LPGA title. The event had an enhanced Spectator Village, • FORMULA 1® SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX. which included new layout and activations Singapore hosted the 11th edition of the that encouraged experiential engagement FORMULA 1® SINGAPORE AIRLINES between sponsors and visitors. SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX 2018 at the Marina Bay Street Circuit from 14 to 16 September • Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 2018. Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton Fight Night Singapore 2018. UFC Fight Night • International Champions Cup Singapore. • HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2018. cruised to victory from pole position for his Singapore saw the emergence of one of the The only ICC stop in Asia saw football giants The two-day event attracted over 55,000 fourth career win in Singapore. A total of best welterweight fights in all of mixed martial Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Arsenal and spectators. Fiji won its first HSBC Singapore 263,000 spectators attended the three-day arts, headlined by Cowboy Cerrone and Leon Atletico Madrid kick-off their pre-season Rugby Sevens title with a thrilling win race in 2018 – the second highest since the Edwards. Over 6,400 fans were treated to preparations in Singapore. The PSG and over Australia. In-stadium performances inaugural race in 2008. Tourists accounted a feast of world-class MMA action with 12 Arsenal tie in July 2018 attracted the highest included the evergreen American disco outfit for over 40 per cent of ticket holders, with bouts at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. The attendance ever at an ICC Singapore match Village People and popular local acts Jive the bulk coming from the United Kingdom, event also showcased the city of Singapore with 50,308 spectators. Talkin’, Jack and Rai, Too Much Drama and Australia, Indonesia, Japan and China. as a unique tourist destination through UFC’s Sambamasala. marketing and branding, and promotional • BNP Paribas WTA Finals Singapore. athlete appearances at prominent locations. Singapore capped off its five-year run by hosting a record number of more than 168,000 fans at the final edition of this top women’s tennis series. Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina came back from a set down to beat American Sloane Stephens and lift the biggest title of her career, while 2018 Australian Open champions Timea Babos and Kristina Mladenovic claimed the doubles title. As part of the lifestyle offerings alongside the WTA Finals, Wakin Chau kick-started the first weekend of the WTA Finals and multiple Grammy award-winning artiste Jason Mraz Credit: Lagardere Sports entertained the crowd on the final weekend. Over the five years that Singapore hosted the WTA Finals, more than 630,000 fans have attended the annual 10-day event.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 57 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

Food & Beverage • The World Restaurant Awards. As Official To raise Singapore’s profile as a leading Culinary Destination Partner of The World gastronomic and mixology capital, STB Restaurant Awards – a progressive new secured strategic partnerships that support annual award platform created by IMG, in industry growth and development. partnership with London-based restaurant journalist Joe Warwick and Italian food writer • World’s 50 Best. STB’s ground-breaking Andrea Petrini – Singapore was placed in the three-year partnership with William Reed global spotlight at the inaugural edition held Business Media (WRBM) marked the first time in Paris in February 2019. Unique creations WRBM inked a multi-year agreement with were showcased through a menu that a national tourism organisation, bringing presented the best of Singapore’s flavours. five 50 “Best” events to Singapore. The Learning and development opportunities partnership kicked off withThe World’s for Singapore’s culinary talents will also be 50 Best Restaurants awards at Marina Bay available through “The World Restaurant Sands in June 2019, the first time the awards Awards Talent Exchange Programme”, platform was hosted in Asia. Singapore will launched jointly by STB and IMG. This continue to anchor four other 50 Best events: first-of-its-kind programme will be The World’s 50 Best Bars awards in 2021, conducted via an “exchange programme” which will see Singapore become the first format, where emerging chefs from award host city outside of its original home of Singapore will be attached to The World London, Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2019 & 2020 Restaurant Awards-winning or nominated (following the inaugural edition in 2018), and establishments, and vice versa. the #50BestTalks thought-leadership event (2020), which will feature top international industry speakers.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 58 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

Entertainment

• C3 Anime Festival Asia (AFA) Singapore 2018. AFA celebrated its 10th year anniversary with special programme highlights such as a celebrity red carpet programme, a special exhibition showcasing the 10 years of AFA and an “Anime for a Cause” charity initiative. The event is South East Asia’s biggest and most prestigious Japanese pop culture event and attracted 105,000 visitors – 9 per cent more than the previous year – making 2018 its best performance since its 2008 debut. In terms of unique foreign visitorship, C3AFA drew 15,200 visitors, a 27 per cent increase Credit: SPACELogic from 2017. • Sentosa Sandsation: MARVEL Edition. Held • Marvel Studios: Ten Years of Heroes. This from 1 - 16 September 2018, Southeast Asia’s special exhibition was held at ArtScience biggest sand festival received a boost with the Museum to celebrate the 10th anniversary never-before-seen Marvel edition, featuring of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Locals 15 larger-than-life sand sculptures of iconic and visitors experienced cutting-edge AV Marvel characters such as Iron Man and Thor, technology and highly-immersive media sand-sculpting workshops and the Marvel- at this spectacular exhibition. The event themed Sentosa International Sand Sculpting attracted 213,400 visitors, of which 53 per Championship. The event saw a 32 per cent cent were foreign visitors. year-on-year growth in total attendance, from 105,100 in 2017 to 138,800 in 2018.

• TOYBOX Powered by Hasbro. Supported by STB’s Kickstart Fund, Hasbro’s first ever multi-brand live carnival in Asia was held in Sentosa. The inaugural event took place from 1 to 17 February 2019 and featured seven popular Hasbro brands including Transformers, My Little Pony, NERF, Monopoly, Cluedo, Baby Alive and Play-Doh. The event drew 36,000 visitors.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 59 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

GROWING LOCAL EVENTS Entertainment DELIVERING NEW/ENHANCED Arts • Marina Bay Singapore Countdown. The EVENTS annual event drew an estimated crowd STB supported a wide variety of local • Singapore Art Week 2019 (SAW). The 7th of nearly half a million. Highlights at the and international arts and entertainment edition of Singapore’s annual celebration event included hourly fireworks displays, experiences. of the visual arts featured over 100 unique complemented by light projections on events across the city, ranging from mass various Marina Bay landmarks, and activity Arts festivals, art exhibitions, gallery openings zones spread out across the Marina Bay and public art installations, to talks and area and Civic District. Star Island Singapore • Minimalism: Space. Light. Object. workshops. SAW 2019 drew over 600,000 Countdown Edition, a multi-sensory firework Singapore’s two leading cultural institutions, visitors during its nine-day run. musical, was held outside Japan for the first National Gallery Singapore and ArtScience time and Mediacorp’s Let’s Celebrate 2019 Museum, collaborated for the first time Food & Beverage countdown concert at The Promontory, was to present the region’s first exhibition on made free to the public for the first time. Minimalism. Over 130 works were presented • Culture Cartel 2018. Held over two days in • Singapore Food Festival (SFF). SFF celebrated The event secured at least S$23 million in across the two sites to explore the history December 2018, this first-of-its-kind street its 25th anniversary by staying true to its publicity value, an increase of 21 per cent and legacy of this ground-breaking art culture convention in Asia presented a unique roots of showcasing Singapore’s multi- over its last edition. movement. showcase of street art, graffiti, streetwear and cultural heritage local fare. Themed “Savour toys featuring entertainment and activations Singapore in Every Bite”, the SFF drew • Lucy Liu and Shubigi Rao: Unhomed by more than 60 artists and 100 exhibitors locals and foreign visitors with a sumptuous Belongings. Co-presented by the from urban brands across the world. showcase of over 20 local gastronomic National Museum of Singapore and The experiences, featuring inventive yet familiar Ryan Foundation, Unhomed Belongings Entertainment flavours. A specially-curated line-up of SFF showcased artworks by American actress partner events held over three weekends Lucy Liu and Singaporean artist Shubigi Rao. • PVP Esports Championship. This included craft workshops, cooking demos The two “visual penfriends” had never met championship is a new multi-game title and masterclasses, and sale of local food- in person prior to the exhibition but shared and multi-platform regional esports league related souvenirs. The two-day long outdoor similar themes in their works. set up by SingTel in collaboration with event, STREAT, returned for its 4th edition at their associates and industry partners. STB a bigger venue at Empress Lawn, featuring • STB-Frieze Partnership. STB partnered with supported the finals of the event held in a dedicated bar by Manhattan, the top bar leading art fair brand Frieze to present a Singapore with the aim of test-bedding in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018, limited-edition three-part series of thought leadership events regional demand for esports events. The locally-produced SFF-branded beers and in Singapore and overseas. To kick off the inaugural edition drew about 1,000 unique drinks, and collaborations with Michelin- series, a private panel discussion was held foreign visitors and secured the participation starred restaurant chefs. during Frieze Week in London in October of top international game DOTA 2. The event 2018. A public talk for over 150 art enthusiasts also attracted a total unique online viewership and industry representatives then took place of 13.4 million. at the National Gallery Singapore during Singapore Art Week in January 2019.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 60 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

In support of the Government’s ongoing • New Hotels. The hotel scene continued REFRESHING efforts to transform Orchard Road into a to add more choices for tourists, business DESTINATION lifestyle destination, Design Orchard is the travellers and staycationers. Among the new go-to spot for locals and tourists shopping hotels that opened in 2018 were The Great EXPERIENCES for “uniquely Singapore” items. Design Madras, Six Senses Duxton, The Capitol Orchard houses over 60 labels across Kempinski Hotel Singapore and Six Senses Beyond events, STB and our tourism partners categories such as fashion apparel, food, Maxwell. collaborated to enhance Singapore’s lifestyle souvenirs and small home furnishings. The experiences, products and services. brand founders and designers will also find Six Senses Maxwell is housed in a block of opportunities for mentorship, collaboration heritage shop houses beautifully restored • Rejuvenating Orchard Road. To stay ahead of and networking with industry players. with interiors by French designer Jacques increasing competition from other cities and Garcia. Together with Six Senses Duxton, rapidly changing retail trends, STB, together • Floating Donut. Officially launched in they are the brand’s first city hotels globally, with the Urban Redevelopment Authority November 2018, the Floating Donut provides bringing the sustainable and wellness (URA) and National Parks Board (NParks), a dining experience in an outdoor yet hotel stay experience to Singapore visitors announced plans to transform Orchard Road intimate setting and augments the existing first-hand. Experiences include the first into an “exceptional experience beyond retail” • Launch of Design Orchard. Opened in ‘dining on water’ options in the market, such city Earth Lab, where the hotel showcases for local and international visitors. January 2019, Design Orchard – a joint as river cruises. The environmentally-friendly, their sustainability efforts to reduce project by STB, JTC Corporation and donut-shaped flotation device can hold up to consumption, produce locally, and support The sub-precincts around Orchard Road will Enterprise Singapore – aims to groom new eight diners comfortably, with an additional communities and ecosystems, as well as showcase their unique identities by offering and emerging talents in the lifestyle and licensed captain on board to navigate the engaging guests through their Alchemy bar visitors differentiated experiences, such fashion sectors. Located at the junction boat. In collaboration with Tokidoki, the and workshops on unique concoctions and as innovative retail concepts, attractions, of Orchard Road and Cairnhill Road, the vessels are wrapped with Tokidoki-themed aromatherapy blends. entertainment and events. ‘Bring Back the 2.5-storey building features a 850 sqm motifs and images. A first of its kind in Orchard’ will distinguish Orchard Road from retail showcase, run by homegrown retailer Singapore, it appeals to both MICE groups The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore was other international shopping streets by Naiise; an incubation space, operated by the and leisure travellers, and is expected to finally reopened following the restoration drawing back to its roots and international Textile and Fashion Federation Singapore and contribute to the vibrancy of the Marina Bay by acclaimed Pritzker Architecture Prize reputation as a “City in a Garden” to offer housing co-working areas and professional precinct. STB supported the project with the winner Richard Meier, bringing out the best visitors a vibrant green urban corridor that sewing equipment; and a rooftop Kickstart Fund, a seed funding that supports of the neoclassical-style Capitol Building will connect the historical green spaces amphitheatre and events space. the creation and test-bedding of innovative (1930) and the Venetian Renaissance-style of Singapore Botanic Gardens and Fort lifestyle concepts with strong tourism Stamford House (1940). The first Kempinski Canning Park. potential and scalability. hotel in Singapore, the hotel also offers new dining experiences including 15 Stamford by Alvin Leung by renowned three-Michelin-starred chef Alvin Leung and more.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 61 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Marketing Singapore to the World

investments and cruise development, and a • China-Ready Tourism Training Seminar. GATHERING SPEED FOR BEYOND DESTINATION review of areas of cooperation arising from In May 2018, STB and the ASEAN-China CRUISE IN THE REGION PROMOTION - ASEAN Tourism Forum 2017. Held biennially Centre jointly organised the China-Ready since 1994, the next S-VTC Meeting will be Tourism Training Seminar to equip the STB continues to collaborate closely with its SHARING OUR TOURISM hosted by Vietnam in 2020. Singapore tourism industry with a better ASEAN counterparts to boost the increasingly EXPERTISE understanding of Chinese tourists. Four vibrant cruising industry in Singapore and • MoU between STB and Chongqing Municipal lecturers from the Guilin Tourism University Southeast Asia. Behind the scenes, STB joined forces with our Commission of Tourism Development shared insights on China’s Outbound Tourism regional counterparts as part of ongoing efforts (CQMCT). The three-year Tourism MOU was Market, Travel Trends and Preferences, • First-of-its-kind Singapore Port Operations amongst the Southeast Asian destinations to signed in August to strengthen capability Chinese Travellers’ Consumer Behaviour, and Forum. In September 2018, STB organised boost tourism in the region. building and increase visitor numbers. The Being China-Ready in ASEAN. The 92 tourism the inaugural event that brought together parties committed to sharing best practices, professionals who attended the event found more than 75 stakeholders to discuss ways • Biennial Singapore-Vietnam Tourism deepening travel trade industry exchange, it a useful platform for strengthening tourism to enhance Singapore’s cruise operating Cooperation (S-VTC) Meeting. In May 2018, and increasing air connectivity between the cooperation and exchanges between China environment. Cruise lines, ship agents, STB hosted the 15th S-VTC meeting, which two cities. China and the city of Chongqing and Singapore. terminal operators, ground handlers and discussed tourism market development, have been and will continue to be an Singapore government agencies discussed manpower training, opportunities for tourism important source of visitors to Singapore. • STB also assumed the role of Chair of the matters including immigration, crisis ASEAN Tourism Competitiveness Committee management, customs, berthing, shore (ATCC) for 2018-2019. As ATCC Chair, STB’s excursions and fly-cruise services. responsibilities include overseeing regional marketing and promotional activities, • Advanced collaboration efforts with ASEAN. diversifying tourism products, enhancing Set up in 2017, the Singapore-Indonesia tourism standards and air, sea and land Bilateral Cruise Inter-Agency Taskforce connectivity, facilitating cross border organised explorations to new destinations movements, and attracting investments in Balikpapan, Banyuwangi, Belitung and to ASEAN. Surabaya for the cruise lines. New cruise itineraries between the two countries were established, for example Dream Cruises’ Genting Dream now sails from Singapore to Bintan, Celukan Bawang (Bali) and Surabaya.

• Notable Maiden Calls. 2018 saw maiden calls from ships such as Mein Schiff 3 (TUI Cruises), Norwegian Jewel (Norwegian Cruise Line) and Silver Muse (Silversea Cruises).

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 62 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

APR 2018 CHILDREN’S SEASON 2018 AT THE IDEM 2018 SIFA 2018 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE IDEM is the leading dental exhibition and In its 41st year, SIFA 2018 is an annual arts As part of Children’s Season 2018, the National scientific conference for the Asia-Pacific festival that presents diverse theatre, music, Museum of Singapore featured exhibition region, held biennially in Singapore. dance, film, literary arts and multimedia “The More We Get Together: Singapore’s Inaugurated in 2000, IDEM has grown into presentations by acclaimed artists from Playgrounds 1930 – 2030” invited young a well-regarded regional dental trade event. around the world and Singapore. Held over audiences and families to explore different It is strongly supported by key international three weeks, the Festival also presented a types of play experience at the museum with and local dental associations, coupled with packed calendar of book clubs, artist talks, line-up of programmes, including hands- government support. In its 10th edition, lectures, workshops, and master classes that on activities, storytelling sessions, family IDEM 2018 served as a platform for world complemented the main presentations at the workshops, performances and film screenings. experts to share and discuss on clinical dental Festival House. The 2018 event drew over practices, innovative techniques and emerging 55,000 visitors. biomaterials. WORLD GOURMET SUMMIT 2018 FOOD&HOTELASIA 2018 An annual culinary festival that features a FHA is a biennial tradeshow anchored in line-up of international and local chefs offering Singapore since 1978 and has grown to be gastronomic experiences for fine dining SEA’s largest food and hospitality trade event enthusiasts. catering to all aspects of the culinary and hospitality industries. The 21st edition in 2018 was held across two venues, Singapore Expo and Suntec Singapore – a first for a Singapore exhibition. The show attracted over 2,800 HSBC SINGAPORE RUGBY SEVENS exhibitors from 64 countries and more than Rugby fans enjoyed two days of high-energy 30,000 visitors. sport and entertainment as the world’s top 16 PROWINE ASIA 2018 international Rugby Sevens teams battled for Co-located with FHA 2018, ProWine Asia is the the Singapore championship at the National SEA version of its best-in-class wine and spirits Stadium. parent event held annually in Dusseldorf. The event attracted over 9,000 visitors and more than 280 exhibitors.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 63 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

MAY JUN 2018 2018 HERBALIFE SEA EXTRAVAGANZA 2018 TAX FREE WORLD ASSOCIATION MARVEL STUDIOS: Herbalife Nutrition’s annual regional event ASIA PACIFIC EXHIBITION AND TEN YEARS OF HEROES took place at the Singapore Expo in May 2018 CONFERENCE 2018 The Marvel Studios: Ten Years of Heroes and drew more than 10,000 attendees from TFWA Asia Pacific Exhibition and Conference exhibition was held at ArtScience Museum to Southeast Asia. is an annual leading travel retail B2B event celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Marvel presenting the best in premium brand Cinematic Universe. HARI RAYA LIGHT-UP AND innovation as well as acclaimed industry CELEBRATIONS 2018 conference and in-depth market insights. The annual Hari Raya Light-up at Geylang The 2018 edition served as a platform where Serai bustled with visitors thronging the the industry met to showcase products and bazaar which offered festive décor, clothing, services, discuss developments and learn and traditional Muslim eats including street about future trends. food, snacks and other treats. Hari Raya light-up 2018 celebrated the kampong spirit INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL with a visual lights display bearing Malay MARKET (ILTM) ASIA PACIFIC 2018 cultural icons. ILTM Asia Pacific 2018 was the inaugural ASIA’S 50 BEST BARS 2018 edition for the Asia Pacific region, while the Singapore hosted the inaugural Asia’s 50 Best ILTM flagship show in Cannes is regarded as Bars awards ceremony, in which 11 Singapore a leading show for the global luxury travel bars made the list. The first bar-focused community. It was a four-day B2B, invitation- thought leadership event was also held only trade show where exhibitors met Credit: SPACELogic alongside the event. pre-qualified luxury buyers from Asia Pacific to exchange ideas, discuss new products and INNOVFEST UNBOUND 2018 Innovfest Unbound is a 2-day innovation- SINGAPORE COCKTAIL FESTIVAL 2018 generate business leads. Additionally, industry focused conference that connects brands and Held at the Empress Lawn from 4 to 6 May, media were also identified and invited to cover global corporations with disruptive technology Singapore Cocktail Festival featured 15 the event annually. for growth. It is profiled as a platform where international celebrity mixologists from entrepreneurs and corporates leaders from the award-winning bars across Asia. U.S. and Europe come to explore opportunities in Asia. The event was launched in April 2015 as a partnership between NUS Enterprise and AcreWhite (now Unbound Innovations (Asia)). In 2016, it became the flagship event of Smart Nation Innovations (SNI) Week – IDA’s (now IMDA) umbrella week of events that showcases Asia’s most innovative developments in the media-tech sphere. Innovfest Unbound continues to be SNI Week’s anchor event in 2018.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 64 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

JUN JUL 2018 2018 CONNECTECH ASIA 2018 RAINFOREST LUMINA 2018 UFC FIGHT WEEK SINGAPORE 2018 PESTA RAYA – MALAY FESTIVAL OF ARTS UBM-SES rebranded CommunicAsia and The first of its kind in Asia, Rainforest Lumina Following a hugely successful event in 2017, Pesta Raya celebrates the icons of Malay arts BroadcastAsia as component events under is an immersive night walk experience through UFC returned to Singapore on the 23rd June and culture through a showcase of traditional the umbrella brand, ConnecTech Asia. Aside the Singapore Zoo. The 7-month event from 2018 in Singapore Indoor Stadium for a faceoff and contemporary art in theatre, dance, and from CommunicAsia and BroadcastAsia, Jun 2018 to Feb 2019, features a customised between American welterweight 11th ranked music from the Nusantara (Malay Archipelago). ConnecTech Asia also includes NXT Asia, concept and story, with interactive elements Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone with 14th ranked The 2018 edition saw a new space – Pesta which encompasses disruptive technology that help to bring the Singapore Zoo to life British upstart Leon “Rocky” Edwards in a 5 Berpesta! – where artists such as Tarakucha! such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, after sunset, through the use of cutting-edge round main event. Beyond the Fight, UFC put (Malaysia), IRAMAMAMA (Indonesia) and Nada robotics, and etc. motion sensing, lighting and projection together complementary fan experiences such (Singapore) presented a wide selection of technology. as UFC VIP experience, Ceremonial weigh-in, popular music from the 60s to the 80s. One of Singapore’s largest exhibition, Open Workout, UFC Fan Experience, Guest CommunicAsia is positioned as Asia’s largest GREAT SINGAPORE SALE (GSS) Fighter seminar and Official after-party. and most established information and To celebrate the 25th anniversary of GSS, the communications technology (ICT) event. Singapore Retailers Association (SRA) organised CommunicAsia 2018, held at MBS, featured a special launch event with an exciting line-up a complete range of key technologies, such of performances, games and other activities. It as mobile broadband and applications, also implemented a GST-absorbed day on 7th developments in LTE/4G as well as Over- July, galvanising over 100 participating brands. the-Top (OTT) and more. It also comprised EnterpriseIT 2018 and SatComm 2018.

BroadcastAsia is positioned as Asia’s largest INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONS and most established media communications CUP SINGAPORE event. Exhibitors showcase the latest key The ICC Singapore in 2018 was the only stop technologies, including: Future TV (OTT/ of the ICC in Asia and saw top teams PSG, Cloud Broadcasting), Multi-Screen Streaming, GALLERY CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL: Arsenal and Atletico Madrid kick-off their Production and Post-Production Software and SMALL BIG DREAMERS pre-season preparation in Singapore. The more. As with the 2017 edition, BroadcastAsia As part of Children’s Season 2018, the National match between PSG and Arsenal was the 2018 was held at Suntec Convention and Gallery Singapore organised a family-centric highest attended ICC match in Singapore at Exhibition Centre. event featuring interactive art installations by the time, with 50,308 spectators in attendance. regional and international artists, including Singapore artist Lee Wen. The festival also showcased performances, guided tours and workshops, and film screening within the Gallery.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 65 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

JUL 2018 SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL CLEANENVIRO SUMMIT SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL SINGAPORE FOOD FESTIVAL 2018 WATER WEEK (SIWW) SINGAPORE (CESS) 2018 TRANSPORT CONGRESS & EXHIBITION With food trails and art performances inspired SIWW is a biennial international platform The biennial CESS is a global networking (SITCE) 2018 by food, the Singapore Food Festival 2018 for stakeholders from the water industry to platform for thought leaders, senior The Singapore International Transport served up a wide variety of culinary creations address challenges, share practical solutions government officials, policy makers, regulators Congress and Exhibition (SITCE) is an from famous chefs and hawkers and food- and showcase latest technologies. and industry leaders to connect and discover exhibition and conference jointly organised related experiences. practical solutions to address environmental by Land Transport Authority of Singapore SIWW 2018 was in its 8th edition and took place challenges for tomorrow’s cities. The event (LTA), the International Association of Public at Sands Expo & Convention Centre from 8 also showcases latest innovations in waste Transport (UITP) and LTA’s subsidiary, MSI to 12 July. The event was held in conjunction and cleaning management, environmental Global Pte Ltd. with World Cities Summit, the CleanEnviro technology and recycling solutions. Summit Singapore and the Singapore Themed “People at the Heart of Digital Railways”, International Transport Congress and The 2018 event was held in conjunction SITCE 2018 featured digitalisation of the rail Exhibition. These events shared an integrated with World Cities Summit, the Singapore industry to address capacity improvement and exhibition, City Solutions Singapore. International Water Week and the Singapore performance capabilities gaps. International Transport Congress and Exhibition. These events shared an integrated SITCE 2018 was held in conjunction with World exhibition, City Solutions Singapore. Cities Summit, the Singapore International Water Week and CleanEnviro Summit WORLD CITIES SUMMIT 2018 Singapore. These events shared an integrated World Cities Summit is a biennial global exhibition, City Solutions Singapore. platform for government leaders and industry MICHELIN GUIDE SINGAPORE 2018 STAR experts to address liveable and sustainable city REVELATION AND GALA DINNER challenges, share innovative urban projects and The annual Michelin Gala Dinner and Awards forge partnerships. The objectives of the event Ceremony where the selected Michelin-starred are to facilitate learning, thought leadership establishments for the 2018 Michelin Guide discussion and profile Singapore’s urban were announced. The 2018 dinner was themed solutions. ‘The Past Through Tomorrow’, and showcased a modern take on some of Singapore’s The 2018 event was held in conjunction with favourite local dishes such as Chicken Rice the Singapore International Water Week, and Chilli Crab. CleanEnviro Summit Singapore and the Singapore International Transport Congress and Exhibition. These events shared an integrated exhibition, City Solutions Singapore.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 66 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

AUG SEP 2018 2018 DHL ASIACUP 2018 SANDS FOR SINGAPORE CHARITY INNOVATION SUMMIT SINGAPORE 2018 DHL Express held its annual football FESTIVAL 2018 3200+ world-leading entrepreneurs, tournament and cheerleading competition The annual charity event of Marina Bay executives and industry leaders gathered for employees from its Asia Pacific offices in Sands (MBS)’ CSR programme, the Sands for together at Innovation Summit Singapore 2018 Singapore on 3-5 August 2018. Over 1,000 Singapore Charity Festival 2018 hosted an to explore, discuss and create opportunities for DHL employees attended the event. array of fundraising activities over three days powering and digitising the economy. to engage the public in giving back – from SINGAPORE NIGHT FESTIVAL 2018 charity challenges for adults and children to SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL Now into its 11th edition, the iconic Singapore a festival event with food trucks, live music PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVAL (SIPF) 2018 Night Festival 2018 transformed the arts and performances and art jamming activities. The The 6th SIPF featured the photographic works heritage district of Bras Basah.Bugis into an initiative has raised over S$23 million since its of 131 artists from 31 countries across various illuminated playground with interactive light inception in 2013, and has benefited charities locations in Singapore including DECK, installations and buzz of street performances such as Community Chest and SPD. National Design Centre, the Arts House, Japan by local and international artists over the two Creative Centre, Gillman Barracks, National weekends in August. MEDICAL FAIR ASIA 2018 Library Plaza and the Esplanade Tunnel. SIPF, Modelled after the global medical trade fair, which featured exhibitions by renowned MEDICA, Medical Fair Asia 2018, co-located international artists such as Nobuyoshi Araki with Medical Manufacturing Asia 2018, served (Japan) and Nan Goldin (United States), drew as an international platform focused on more than 191,000 visitors of which 26 per innovations and solutions for the hospital, cent were tourists. diagnostic, pharmaceutical, medical and rehabilitation sectors. SINGAPORE GREEN BUILDING WEEK 2018 Singapore Green Building Week (SGBW) is an international platform for industry experts from the green building industry to share practical green building solutions, address challenges RWS STREET EATS 2018 and showcase latest technologies. Back for its second year, the 11-day event showcased some of Southeast Asia’s iconic The event week was led by Building & hawker delights from renowned hawkers Construction Authority (BCA) and co-organised and eateries in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, with Relx Singapore (formerly known as Vietnam and Singapore – across 29 stalls Reed Singapore). The events under SGBW hosted at the Malaysian Food Street and the were namely the Build Eco Xpo (BEX) Asia, Waterfront at Resorts World Sentosa. International Green Building Conference (IGBC) and Mostra Convegno Expocomfort (MCE) Asia.

SGBW, in its 10th edition was held from 5 to 7 September 2018.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 67 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

SEP 2018 WOMEN’S FORUM SINGAPORE 2018 SINGAPORE TOY, GAME AND COMIC GRAND PRIX SEASON SINGAPORE 2018 The first Women’s Forum Singapore convened CONVENTION 2018 Incorporating the FORMULA 1® SINGAPORE more than 800 leaders and high-potential Held at Marina Bay Sands, the annual GRAND PRIX, Grand Prix Season Singapore talents from business, government, civil society Singapore Toy, Game & Comic Convention 2018 saw 10 days of non-stop action, on and other sectors to discuss and explore best featured exciting exhibitors, game demos, and off the race tracks. Singapore’s biggest practices and proposals on the involvement of stage performances, and meet-and-greet sporting extravaganza delivered a high-octane women in innovation in three central pillars: sessions with comic artists, voice-over artists party weekend with thrilling night racing and and video game designers. star-studded acts, as well as specially curated (i) Shaping lives and livelihoods through lifestyle offerings and events. innovation SENTOSA SANDSATION: (ii) Embracing diversity for inclusive prosperity MARVEL EDITION 2018 CHINATOWN MID-AUTUMN DEEPAVALI LIGHT-UP AND Sentosa Sandsation, Singapore’s biggest sand FESTIVAL 2018 CELEBRATIONS 2018 (iii) Risk and resilience: Traditional and festival, was amplified with the Marvel-themed Known as the Mooncake festival, the Mid- Little India is the epicentre of the annual non-traditional security challenges sand sculptures, including iconic characters Autumn Festival is one of the most popular Deepavali celebrations, and the 2018 light-up such as Iron Man and Thor. events celebrated by the Chinese community did not disappoint with spectacular street 43RD WORLD SMALL ANIMAL VETERINARY ASSOCIATION CONGRESS in Singapore. The month-long Chinatown lights, a busy festival market offering traditional festival showcased a themed street light-up, snacks, sarees and ornamental decorations and The WSAVA World Congress is where the festive bazaar, official light-up ceremony, cultural programmes and performances. global community of companion animal nightly stage shows, mass lantern walk and practitioners gather to share the latest and heritage walking trails which attracted about HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS® 8 best practices in veterinary science and care in one million visitors. The award-winning Sci-Fi thriller, “Stranger the field. The event in Singapore also featured Things”, came to life for the first time at the outreach programs to the region. “Halloween Horror Nights™” events across Universal Studios® in Hollywood, Orlando and Singapore. The 8th edition of Universal Studios Singapore®(USS)’ annual Halloween event featured 12 artfully recreated scenes and storylines from the popular Netflix series – transporting guests from the menacing Hawkins National Laboratory to the eerie Upside Down woods.

Credit: Sentosa

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 68 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

OCT NOV 2018 2018 JEWELUXE SINGAPORE RIVER FESTIVAL 2018 ITB ASIA 2018 BLOOMBERG NEW ECONOMY FORUM The second edition of Asia’s largest curated This is an annual lifestyle event that showcases The 11th edition of ITB Asia showcased Established in 2018 by Michael Bloomberg, festival of jewellery and watches, JeweLuxe and celebrates the Singapore River’s rich hundreds of exhibiting companies from the the New Economy Forum seeks to build brought together 74 eminent jewellery houses, cultural heritage and modern charms. The Asia-Pacific region, Europe, the Americas, a community of leaders to engage in real heritage brands and independent designers as event featured an exciting line-up of new Africa and the Middle East. It is Asia’s largest conversations – leading to actionable solutions well as watch and clock makers. It featured the activities, including the biggest-ever display and only hybrid show bringing together leisure, – about the critical challenges facing a world largest gathering of 11 independent watch and of light-emitting diode (LED) kites, live music corporate and MICE sectors. Exhibitor profile economy in the throes of a historical transition. clock makers in Asia. entertainment and an outdoor street party. for the event spans from accommodation, Supported by more than 100 businesses within travel agent/tour operator, NTO/CVB, business The inaugural forum was held in Singapore BNP PARIBAS WTA FINALS SINGAPORE the Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay and Boat travel/MICE, travel technology and transport. and covered a range of topics including global PRESENTED BY SC GLOBAL Quay precincts, the event attracted more than The 2018 edition featured 3 new elements: economic management, trade and investment, The fifth and final edition of the WTA Finals in 200,000 locals and tourists. MICE & Corporate Hub, Muslim Travel Pavilion technology, urbanisation, capital markets, Singapore saw a record of more than 168,000 and Destination Marketing Showcase. climate change and inclusions. fans across the ten-day festival. Alongside INDUSTRIAL TRANSFORMATION the tennis action, lifestyle offerings included ASIA PACIFIC 2018 ZOMBIE ATTACK SINGAPORE FINTECH FESTIVAL 2018 Wakin Chau kicking off the first weekend of the The inaugural Industrial Transformation Asia Held over 10 days during the Halloween The Singapore FinTech Festival 2018 was the WTA Finals and concluding with Jason Mraz Pacific (ITAP) is an exhibition focused on the period, Zombie Attack was an outdoor escape third edition of a successful event that debuted on the final weekend. Across the five years applications of Industry 4.0 technologies and room pop-up attraction that was held at in 2016. Organised by the Monetary Authority that Singapore hosted the WTA Finals, more solutions for the manufacturing sector and Grange Road car park as part of the call of Singapore (MAS) and the Association of than 630,000 fans have attended the annual across the value chain. The event, scoped for for proposal to test-bed the carpark as an Banks in Singapore (ABS), the event aims to tournament. the Asian market, is positioned as the Asian event space. bring together the global financial community edition of Hannover Messe, the world’s largest in a week- long celebration of FinTech, and Industrial Technology event. It serves industry aims to be the platform to strengthen the sectors such as aerospace, automotive, international reputation of Singapore as an biomedical sciences, chemicals, consumer emerging global FinTech hub by bringing goods manufacturing, electronics, marine and together top industry professionals and offshore, oil and gas, and precision engineering decision makers, from local and abroad. amongst others.

ITAP consisted of an exhibition and conferences, focusing on five key themes – Additive Manufacturing, Digital Factory, Industrial Automation, Integrated Energy and Smart Logistics. In 2018, the event attracted 15,000 attendees from 55 countries and Credit: Lagardere Sports featured over 360 exhibitors from 23 countries.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 69 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

NOV DEC 2018 2018 MINIMALISM: SPACE. LIGHT. KALAA UTSAVAM – INDIAN FESTIVAL CULTURE CARTEL 2018 C3 ANIME FESTIVAL ASIA 2018 OBJECT EXHIBITION OF ARTS Held over two days in December 2018, this C3 AFA Singapore 2018 celebrated their 10th The Minimalism exhibition was a two-part Kalaa Utsavam is a 10-day festival celebrating first-of-its-kind street culture convention in anniversary last year, with exclusive events and exhibition held across the National Gallery traditional and contemporary Indian arts Asia presented a unique showcase of street merchandise. Singapore and ArtScience Museum. The first during Deepavali. With over 90 ticketed and art, graffiti, streetwear and toys featuring Minimalism-focused exhibition in Southeast free programmes of classical to contemporary entertainment and activations by more than CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND 2018 Asia featured over 150 works that explored works by artists from the Indian subcontinent, 60 artists and 100 exhibitors from urban brands Christmas Wonderland is Singapore’s largest the history and legacy of the minimalism the Indian diaspora and Singapore, the 2018 across the world. yuletide fair held at Gardens by the Bay movement, which included site-specific edition featured performances by renowned annually. The event celebrated their 5th installations and highly immersive works such sitar maverick Niladri Kumar, and Malayali rock STANDARD CHARTERED SINGAPORE anniversary last year, and featured brand new as the Yellow Room by Olafur Eliasson. legends Avial and Leela Samson. MARATHON highlights such as SEA’s largest mirror maze, a One of the world’s most participated marathons, larger Santa’s Grotto and outdoor skating rink CHRISTMAS ON A GREAT STREET SCSM’s 2018 race started at the F1 Pit Building and a world-class illusionist. (COGS) 2018 and finished at the Float. Boasting new This was the first branded Light-Up in the categories this year, the event had nearly 50,000 ZOUKOUT 2018 event’s 35-year history with a collaboration with participants. The runners went past the city’s Asia’s highly-anticipated dance music festival Disney, and also Disney’s largest Christmas street iconic landmarks such as Flyer, Marina Bay Sands continued to attract partygoers from around light-up in Southeast Asia. Beloved characters and Gardens by the Bay for a memorable run. the world. The dusk-to-dawn revelry at from Disney and Disney-Pixar, including Mickey Sentosa featured a star-studded lineup of Mouse, Cinderella, Elsa and Woody, were international DJs and regional acts, as well as showcased on the over-street lighting and as exciting food concepts. set pieces along the Orchard Road pedestrian mall. In addition, the Great Christmas Village, back in its 2nd edition, was held at Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza. The Orchard Road Business Association partnered with Timbre Group to offer a wide array of seasonal and local food as well as performances by local musicians. Another key highlight of the village was Singapore’s first duplex carousel and the Hitachi Santa House.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 70 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

DEC JAN FEB 2018 2019 2019 MARINA BAY SINGAPORE SINGAPORE MEDIA FESTIVAL 2018 ORACLE OPENWORLD ASIA 2019 HUAYI – CHINESE FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS COUNTDOWN 2019 The Singapore Media Festival brings together The inaugural Oracle OpenWorld Asia took The Huayi – Chinese Festival of the Arts takes For the first time, STAR ISLAND Singapore four complementary film and TV events – a trade place in Singapore in March 2019. The two-day place annually at the Esplanade during Chinese Countdown Edition was held in conjunction market for film and TV, conferences, awards and event at the Marina Bay Sands attracted more New Year, showcasing the works of Chinese with Marina Bay Singapore Countdown, festival screenings under a single umbrella. The than 1,000 foreign delegates. artists, from traditional to contemporary art Singapore’s largest New Year countdown ten-day festival saw film and TV professionals forms. Its 17th edition saw a spread of over 100 event. Revellers were treated to multi-sensory from around the world and region convene in I LIGHT SINGAPORE 2019 free performances and activities presented fireworks musical displays that lit-up the iconic Singapore to trade, learn, celebrate and indulge i Light Singapore 2019 (renamed from i Light throughout the 10-day festival, including Singapore city skyline at midnight and a wide in the best of Asian and international content. Marina Bay) was part of the bicentennial Chinese dance, instrumental concerts, and range of a celebratory programmes around the commemoration launch event and was held puppetry performances. Marina Bay. The events under the umbrella were: in January/February instead of March. Visitors 1. Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF), were treated to a new immersive, multimedia 5 to 7 Dec 2018 show “Bridges of Time” by Belgium art 2. ScreenSingapore (SS), 5 to 7 Dec 2018 collective ACTLD on Singapore River and over 30 art installations along Marina Bay, Singapore 3. Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF), River and Fort Canning Park. 28 Nov to 9 Dec 2018 4. Asian Academy Creative Awards (AAA), SINGAPORE ART WEEK 6 to 7 Dec 2018 The seventh edition of Singapore Art Week celebrated visual arts across Singapore, and 5. SMF Ignite, 4 to 7 Dec 2018 showcased over 100 arts events ranging from museum exhibitions, gallery openings, AMWAY INDIA ALS 2018 festivals, art trails, talks and workshops. In One of the largest incentive groups that addition to evergreen events such as the Light Singapore has hosted from India, Amway India to Night Festival, ARTWALK Little India and the Annual Leadership Summit was attended by IMPART Collectors’ Show, the 2019 edition more than 3,600 Amway Business Owners also featured new highlight events, such as over five days. The event included business the Frieze Academy public talk titled “Public seminars at Resorts World Sentosa as well vs Private Museums: Bridging the Divide?” and as exclusive buy-out of attractions on Unhomed Belongings: Lucy Liu and Shubigi Sentosa Island. Rao exhibition, which exhibited the works of US celebrity Lucy Liu.

The Frieze public talk was the second of three events organised by Frieze Academy, in partnership with Singapore Tourism Board.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 71 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

FEB MAR 2019 2019 CHINATOWN CHINESE NEW YEAR MICHELIN GUIDE SINGAPORE STREET TOYBOX BY HASBRO STREET OF CLANS CELEBRATIONS 2019 FOOD FESTIVAL TOYBOX by Hasbro, a family-friendly carnival Street of Clans is a vibrant creative festival Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations Held at the Coliseum at Resorts World Sentosa, that promises to transport you to a world of that brings together Bukit Pasoh’s colourful showcases a 7-week programming that includes Singapore’s 3rd edition of the MICHELIN Guide your favourite Hasbro toys, was held at Sentosa history and Singapore’s creative communities. themed street light up, festive bazaar, flower Street Food Festival featured the delightful multi- Palawan Green for the first time. Organised The 3-day event turns the street into a riot of market, official light-up ceremony, countdown ethnic culinary specialities of 15 Michelin-starred by Kingsmen, the flagship event featured an interactive programmes, installations, music, party, nightly stage shows, International Lion restaurants and Bib Gourmand eateries. exciting range of Hasbro toy brands such as food, workshops and a rare chance to visit the Dance Competition and Chingay @ Chinatown. Transformers, NERF, My Little Pony, Monopoly, Chinese clan associations to learn about the Play-Doh, Cluedo and more, with games, clan’s past. RIVER HONGBAO 2019 activities and instagrammable installations. River Hongbao is the annual Lunar Chinese FIVE FOOTWAY FESTIVAL 2019 New Year event that celebrates Chinese Organised by the Chinatown Business cultures and traditions. The scenic waterfront Association, the inaugural Five Footway Festival festivities draw tourists and locals with was held in Chinatown this year. It showcased performances by local and foreign acrobats the breadth of unique heritage and cultural and artists, traditional craft displays, carnival offerings in Chinatown in the 1930s. The rides, games, and nightly fireworks and programming included recreation of hawker laser shows. scenes from the 1930s, trades demonstrations and workshops conducted by heritage brands such as Tong Heng, On Cheong, Eu Yan Sang and Nanyang Old Coffee.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 72 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Calendar of Events

MAR 2019 SINGAPORE DESIGN WEEK 2019 MONEY20/20 ASIA 2019 The Singapore Design Week (SDW) brings Money20/20 organises the world’s largest events together a collection of local and international focused on payments and financial services, and design activities in Singapore. Held annually, SDW brings together the world’s leading organisations is organised by the DesignSingapore Council. in the evolution of commerce and money.

Open to the design community, businesses, Singapore hosted the second edition of design students and the general public, SDW Money20/20 Asia in March, gathering a global aims to raise awareness of good design, network of innovators, disruptors and established industry players and driving a worldwide deepen the appreciation and understanding payments and financial services revolution with a of design innovation and encourage the use Pan-Asian focus. of design for innovation and productivity. Through this platform, the DesignSingapore HSBC WOMEN’S WORLD Council also hopes to enhance the synergy INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR CHAMPIONSHIP 2019 among design partners, and in turn boost SINGAPORE/ASEAN FURNITURE SHOW The 2019 HSBC Women’s World Championship Singapore’s profile and attractiveness as a 2019/NOOK ASIA 2019 was the 12th edition of Singapore’s biggest global city for design. The International Furniture Fair Singapore (IFFS), professional ladies golf event which featured top held in conjunction with the ASEAN Furniture ranking players from around the world. Dubbed In the sixth edition, SDW 2019 featured Show (AFS) and Nook Asia, is Singapore’s largest as Asia’s Major, the four-day festival was held local and international design trade shows, annual furniture trade exhibition. Since 1981, at Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore, giving fans conferences, showcases, exhibitions and IFFS has grown to be Asia’s premier sourcing and spectators opportunities to get up close workshops that span various design disciplines. platform and design-led exhibition, and serves as with their favourite golf stars. Beyond the stellar Some of the activities included SingaPlural, the an effective platform to promote and enhance golfing line-up, the event offered an array of off- International Furniture Fair Singapore, Design X global trade for the furniture industry. course activities for an immersive experience of Heritage Trails, Brainstorm Design, Wallpaper* golf-related activities and entertainment offerings Handmade Exhibition, Design Competitions, IFFS/AFS and Nook Asia 2019 featured a alongside the tournament. Workshops and Forums for Designers and comprehensive range of furniture through Business. Many of the activities took place a diverse portfolio of quality exhibitors and at the National Design Centre, the hub of attracted a healthy and well-represented SDW. These activities provided opportunities attendance of trade buyers and visitors. The for business, international collaboration and event’s numerous design initiatives (SingaPlural knowledge exchange. and Furniture Design Award) offered added depth and dimension to the Singapore-anchored trade event and a key show to the industry trade calendar.

Credit: HSBC Women’s World Championship

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 73 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 ARTS MARINA BAY SANDS DISTINGUISHED PATRON OF THE ARTS National Arts Council Patron of the Arts Awards & Awards 2018 HOTELS THE SCARLET SINGAPORE PRESIDENTIAL SUITE @ FOUR SEASONS Accolades SINGAPORE’S LEADING BOUTIQUE HOTEL SINGAPORE HOTEL 2018 SINGAPORE’S LEADING HOTEL SUITE 2018 World Travel Awards World Travel Awards

SINGAPORE MARRIOTT ONE FARRER HOTEL & SPA TANG PLAZA HOTEL SINGAPORE’S LEADING LIFESTYLE SINGAPORE’S LEADING BUSINESS HOTEL 2018 HOTEL 2018 World Travel Awards World Travel Awards THE ASCOTT LIMITED THE FULLERTON BAY HOTEL SINGAPORE’S LEADING SERVICED SINGAPORE’S LEADING CITY HOTEL 2018 APARTMENT BRAND 2018 World Travel Awards World Travel Awards

FAIRMONT SINGAPORE FRASER SUITES SINGAPORE SINGAPORE’S LEADING CONFERENCE SINGAPORE’S LEADING SERVICED HOTEL 2018 APARTMENTS 2018 World Travel Awards World Travel Awards

CAPELLA SINGAPORE SINGAPORE’S LEADING HOTEL 2018 World Travel Awards

CAPRI BY FRASER, CHANGI CITY, SINGAPORE SINGAPORE’S LEADING HOTEL RESIDENCES 2018 World Travel Awards

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 74 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Awards & Accolades

HOTELS RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA – GRAND PARK ORCHARD ONE FARRER HOTEL SHERATON TOWERS SINGAPORE HOTEL FESTIVE HOTEL, SINGAPORE LUXURY CITY HOTEL LUXURY ART HOTEL LUXURY CONTEMPORARY HOTEL ASIA’S LEADING FAMILY RESORT 2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 World Travel Awards HOTEL FORT CANNING PARK HOTEL ALEXANDRA SINGAPORE MARRIOTT TANG PARKROYAL ON PICKERING, SINGAPORE LUXURY BANQUET/EVENT HOTEL LUXURY ROOFTOP VIEW HOTEL PLAZA HOTEL ASIA’S LEADING GREEN HOTEL 2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 BEST GENERAL MANAGER World Travel Awards World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 NAUMI HOTEL SINGAPORE RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA – RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA – LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL BEACH VILLAS CAPELLA SINGAPORE EQUARIUS HOTEL, SINGAPORE World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 LUXURY VILLA RESORT BEST HOTELS IN THE WORLD – ASIA’S LEADING HOTEL SUITE 2018 COUNTRY WINNER 10TH PLACE World Travel Awards OAKWOOD PREMIER OUE SINGAPORE World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2018 LUXURY BUSINESS SERVICED JW MARRIOTT HOTEL SINGAPORE APARTMENTS RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA – MARINA BAY SANDS SOUTH BEACH, SINGAPORE World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 CROCKFORDS TOWER TOP HOTELS IN SINGAPORE – ASIA’S LEADING NEW HOTEL 2018 LUXURY ALL SUITE HOTEL COUNTRY WINNER 10TH PLACE World Travel Awards LUXURY CONTEMPORARY World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2018 SERVICED APARTMENTS EQUARIUS HOTEL World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, SINGAPORE LUXURY HOTEL COUNTRY WINNER LUXURY BRAND World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 75 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES HOTELS MARINA BAY SANDS RAMADA BY WYNDHAM SINGAPORE AT FRASERS HOSPITALITY RAFFLES HOTEL SINGAPORE WORLD’S MOST LUXURIOUS HOTELS ZHONGSHAN PARK BEST SERVICED RESIDENCE OPERATOR HALL OF FAME Forbes Travel Guide - 2018 Verified Lists BEST MID-RANGE HOTEL TTG Travel Awards 2018 TTG Travel Awards 2018 TTG Travel Awards 2018 MARINA BAY SANDS OAKWOOD PREMIER OUE SINGAPORE ROYAL PLAZA ON SCOTTS FOUR-STAR HOTEL ONE FARRER HOTEL BEST SERVICED RESIDENCE HALL OF FAME Forbes Travel Guide - 2019 Star Award BEST INDEPENDENT HOTEL (PROPERTY LEVEL) TTG Travel Awards 2018 TTG Travel Awards 2018 TTG Travel Awards 2018 SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, SINGAPORE THE FULLERTON BAY HOTEL BEST LUXURY HOTEL MANDARIN ORCHARD SINGAPORE SOFITEL SINGAPORE CITY CENTRE SINGAPORE TTG Travel Awards 2018 BEST CITY HOTEL – SINGAPORE BEST BUSINESS HOTEL TOP 10 TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE TTG Travel Awards 2018 TTG Travel Awards 2018 HOTELS IN SINGAPORE - #1 TripAdvisor 2019 Travellers’ Choice Awards

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 76 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES

HOTELS RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA - CROWNE PLAZA CHANGI AIRPORT, RAFFLES HOTEL SINGAPORE EQUARIUS HOTEL SINGAPORE TOP 10 ASIA CITY HOTELS - #9 TOP 25 HOTELS IN SINGAPORE BEST AIRPORT HOTEL - #3 2018 Travel + leisure World’s Best Awards TripAdvisor 2019 Travellers’ Business Traveller Awards, sponsored Choice Awards by Panasonic RAFFLES HOTEL SINGAPORE TOP 100 HOTELS OVERALL - #71 SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, SINGAPORE RAFFLES HOTEL SINGAPORE 2018 Travel + leisure World’s Best Awards BEST BUSINESS HOTEL WORLDWIDE TOP SINGAPORE CITY HOTELS - #1 Business Traveller Awards, sponsored 2018 Travel + leisure World’s Best Awards by Panasonic

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 77 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES ATTRACTIONS GARDENS BY THE BAY UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE PERANAKAN MUSEUM BATTLEBOX 2018 CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE #1 AMUSEMENT PARK IN ASIA TOP 10 MUSEUMS IN SINGAPORE TOP 25 MUSEUMS IN ASIA TripAdvisor Singapore TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018

ASEAN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM BEST THEME PARK NATIONAL GALLERY OF SINGAPORE TOP 10 MUSEUMS IN SINGAPORE AWARD 2018 Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ TOP 10 MUSEUMS IN SINGAPORE TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 ASEAN Tourism Choice Award 2018 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE GARDENS BY THE BAY - ADVENTURE COVE WATERPARK ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM BEST OVERSEAS FAMILY FRIENDLY ATTRACTION SUPERTREE GROVE TOP 10 WATER PARKS IN ASIA TOP 10 MUSEUMS IN SINGAPORE Xi’An Global Destination Marketing Summit 2018 TOP 25 LANDMARKS IN ASIA TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 BEST THEME ATTRACTION OPERATOR NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE CHINATOWN HERITAGE CENTRE TTG Travel Awards 2018 SINGAPORE FLYER TOP 10 MUSEUMS IN SINGAPORE TOP 25 MUSEUMS IN ASIA TOP 25 LANDMARKS IN ASIA TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 ASIAN CIVILISATIONS MUSEUM TOP 10 MUSEUMS IN SINGAPORE MEGA ADVENTURE TOP 10 MUSEUMS IN SINGAPORE TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 2018 CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE - TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice 2018 HALL OF FAME (2013 - 2018) TripAdvisor Singapore

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 78 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES

MARKETING TBWA EDELMAN RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA “WHY GAMBLE WITH YOUR HOLIDAY?” “BUSINESS OF HAPPINESS” CAMPAIGN EXCELLENCE IN MEDIA STRATEGY CONSUMER EDUCATION CAMPAIGN OUTSTANDING INTEGRATED CAMPAIGN (SILVER) - UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AWARD FOR GOVERNMENTAL / – HOSPITALITY (MERIT) SINGAPORE HALLOWEEN HORROR INSTITUTIONAL SECTOR MARKETING PRISM Awards 2019 NIGHTS 7: TURNING FEAR INTO FOMO (SILVER) Marketing Excellence Awards 2018 Effie Awards Asia Pacific 2019 MARINA BAY SANDS EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMANCE BEST USE OF REWARDS & INCENTIVES AWARD FOR MOST CREATIVE - MARKETING (GOLD) - OTA SWITCH-OFF (BRONZE) - RWS INVITES GOVERNMENT SECTOR MARKETING CAMPAIGN Loyalty & Engagement Awards 2018 - (SILVER) Marketing Excellence Awards 2018 by Marketing Magazine MARKies Awards 2019 LIFESTYLE MEDIA OF THE YEAR (SILVER) - AWARD FOR FILM & BRANDED CONTENT: SANDS STYLE CREATIVE EFFECTIVENESS: (SILVER) Media Publisher Association Singapore Creative Circle Awards (MPAS) Awards 2018

AWARD FOR FILM & BRANDED CONTENT: CUSTOM PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR SCRIPT CRAFT (BRONZE) (SILVER) - SANDS STYLE Creative Circle Awards Media Publisher Association Singapore (MPAS) Awards 2018 AWARD FOR MOST CREATIVE - GOVERNMENT SECTOR MARKETING (SILVER) WARC Awards

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 79 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES

BTMICE SINGAPORE MARINA BAY SANDS SUNTEC SINGAPORE CONVENTION & TOP MEETING CITY IN ASIA PACIFIC 2018 BEST CONVENTION & EXHIBITION EXHIBITION CENTRE (TOP MEETING CITY IN ASIA PACIFIC FOR CENTRE 2018 BEST CONVENTION CENTRE THREE CONSECUTIVE YEARS) TTG Travel Awards 2018 9th Global Eventrex Awards 2019 CVENT WORLD’S LEADING MICE HOTEL WORLD’S LEADING MEETINGS & TOP ASIA-PACIFIC MEETING CITY FOR 17 World Travel Awards 2018 CONFERENCE CENTRE CONSECUTIVE YEARS World Travel Awards 2018 ICCA Rankings 2018 (International TOP 50 MEETING HOTELS IN APAC Congress and Convention Association) Cvent - Top Meeting Hotels 2018 ASIA’S LEADING MEETINGS & CONFERENCE CENTRE TOP INTERNATIONAL MEETING COUNTRY ASEAN MICE VENUE AWARD 2018-2020 World Travel Awards 2018 UIA (Union of International Associations) ASEAN Tourism Standards Award 2018 Global Rankings 2018 MEETINGS & CONFERENCE VENUE 2018 RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA APAC Insider Singapore Business TOP INTERNATIONAL MEETING CITY FOR ASEAN MICE VENUE AWARD 2018-2020 Awards 2018 11 YEARS ASEAN Tourism Standards Award 2018 UIA (Union of International Associations) Global Rankings 2018 BEST CORPORATE MICE VENUE (FOR LARGE-SCALE EVENTS) HRM Asia Readers’ Choice Awards 2018

BEST BUSINESS HOTEL - EQUARIUS HOTEL HRM Asia Readers’ Choice Awards 2018

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 80 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES

CRUISE SINGAPORE TOP CRUISE DESTINATION IN ASIA (2ND YEAR IN A ROW) Cruise Critic’s 2018 Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards

MARINA BAY CRUISE CENTRE SINGAPORE BEST CRUISE PORT - 2018 Travel Weekly Choice Awards 2018

DINING TEAM SINGAPORE 4TH PLACE - NOEL NG Bocuse d’Or Asia Pacific 2018

OVERALL 1ST RUNNER UP Expogast Culinary World Cup 2018

TWO TO TANGO - 1 GOLD, 1 SILVER FHA Culinary Challenge 2018

SWEET HIGH TEA - 2 SILVERS FHA Culinary Challenge 2018

GOURMET TEAM CHALLENGE - CHAMPION FHA Culinary Challenge 2018

OVERALL CHAMPION Asian Gelato Cup 2018

1ST RUNNER UP Asian Gelato Cup 2019

2ND RUNNER UP Junior World Pastry Cup 2018 (Rimini, Italy)

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 81 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES

DINING NEO JUN HAO (FORMERLY DING DONG) LES AMIS CHAMPION #29 Young Talents Escoffier Asia Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List 2018 Selections 2018 CORNER HOUSE JAKE KELLIE (BURNT ENDS) #36 TOP 3 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List 2018 S. Pellegrino Young Chefs World Finals 2018 JAAN #44 ODETTE Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List 2018 #5 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List 2018 WHITEGRASS #50 BURNT ENDS Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List 2018 #12 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List 2018 ODETTE #28 WAKU GHIN World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2018 #23 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List 2018

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 82 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS &

ACCOLADES AWARDS & DINING MICHELIN GUIDE (2 STAR) ACCOLADES MICHELIN GUIDE (1 STAR) LES AMIS ALMA BY JUAN AMADOR ODETTE BACCHANALIA SHISEN HANTEN BY CHEN KENTARO BÉNI WAKU GHIN BRACI BURNT ENDS SESSIONS BEST ASIAN CASUAL DINING CANDLENUT RAS Epicurean Star Award 2018 CHEEK BY JOWL CHEF KANG LABYRINTH CORNER HOUSE BEST ASIAN FINE DINING RAS Epicurean Star Award 2018 CRYSTAL JADE GOLDEN PALACE CUT KI-SHO HILL STREET TAI HWA PORK NOODLES BEST JAPANESE FINE DINING & BEST OF HK SOYA SAUCE CHICKEN RICE NOODLES THE BEST FINE DINING RAS Epicurean Star Award 2018 IMPERIAL TREASURE FINE TEOCHEW IGGY’S THE FLYING SQUIRREL JAAN BEST JAPANESE CASUAL DINING JIANG-NAN CHUN RAS Epicurean Star Award 2018 LABYRINTH TUNGLOK SIGNATURES LEI GARDEN BEST CHINESE CASUAL DINING MA CUISINE RAS Epicurean Star Award 2018 META Full list here: ras.org.sg/past_event/ NOURI epicurean-star-award-gala-dinner-2018 PUTIEN RESTAURANT (KITCHENER ROAD) RHUBARB LE RESTAURANT SAINT PIERRE SHINJI BY KANESAKA (CARLTON HOTEL) SHINJI BY KANESAKA (ST REGIS HOTEL) SUMMER PALACE SUMMER PAVILION SUSHI ICHI SUSHI KIMURA THE SONG OF INDIA WHITEGRASS

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 83 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS &

ACCOLADES DINING TOP 20 RESTAURANTS IN SINGAPORE HOUSE OF STARS (3 STARS) T Dining Best Restaurants in Singapore Wine & Dine Singapore’s 2018/2019 Awards by Singapore Tatler Top Restaurants 2018 BRACI CASSIA BURNT ENDS CORNER HOUSE CANDLENUT CHEEK BY JOWL (HAS CLOSED) GUNTHER’S MODERN FRENCH CUISINE CORNER HOUSE JAAN CURE SUMMER PAVILION CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK ESORA HOUSE OF STARS (2 STARS) GUNTHER’S Wine & Dine Singapore’s JAAN Top Restaurants 2018 JIANG-NAN CHUN CURATE LABYRINTH META OSIA STEAK AND SEAFOOD GRILL NATIONAL KITCHEN BY VIOLET OON SYUN SINGAPORE NOURI HOUSE OF STARS (1 STARS) ODETTE Wine & Dine Singapore’s ORIGIN GRILL Top Restaurants 2018 SHINJI BY KANESAKA (ST REGIS) FRATELLI - TRATORRIA & PIZZERIA SUSHI KIMURA WAKU GHIN OCEAN RESTAURANT ADRIFT BY DAVID MYERS LAVO SINGAPORE SPAGO PUNJAB GRILL

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 84 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES

DINING DB BISTRO & OYSTER BAR GOLD WINNERS NOURI ODETTE WINE LIST AWARD (SILVER) HUA TING AT ORCHARD HOTEL SINGAPORE BEST NEW WESTERN RESTAURANTS THREE DIAMONDS Wine & Dine Singapore’s IMPERIAL TREASURE FINE TEOCHEW CUISINE G Restaurant Awards 2018 Meituan Dianping 2019 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide Top Restaurants 2018 SHINJI BY KANESAKA (CARLTON HOTEL) ODETTE LES AMIS BREAD STREET KITCHEN SUMMER PAVILLION RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR TWO DIAMONDS WINE LIST AWARD (BRONZE) G Restaurant Awards 2018 Meituan Dianping 2019 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide Wine & Dine Singapore’s The Straits Times and Lianhe Zaobao Best Asian Top Restaurants 2018 Restaurants Award 2019 CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK JAAN (Full list here: https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/ AWARD OF EXCELLENCE TWO DIAMONDS SPAGO food/hua-ting-gets-gold-four-restaurants-debut- G Restaurant Awards 2018 Meituan Dianping 2019 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide WINE LIST AWARD (BRONZE) on-the-silver-list-for-best-asian) Wine & Dine Singapore’s SPAGO CORNER HOUSE Top Restaurants 2018 WAKU GHIN AWARD OF EXCELLENCE TWO DIAMONDS FIVE-STAR RESTAURANTS G Restaurant Awards 2018 Meituan Dianping 2019 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide WAKU GHIN Forbes Travel Guide - 2019 Star Award SILVER AWARD WAKU GHIN BURNT ENDS The Straits Times and Lianhe Zaobao Best CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK AWARD OF EXCELLENCE ONE DIAMOND Asian Restaurants 2018 FOUR-STAR RESTAURANTS G Restaurant Awards 2018 Meituan Dianping 2019 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide Forbes Travel Guide - 2019 Star Award SUMMER PAVILION SPAGO ONE DIAMOND FOUR-STAR RESTAURANTS Meituan Dianping 2019 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide Forbes Travel Guide - 2019 Star Award CANDLENUT ISHI ONE DIAMOND BEST NEW ASIAN RESTAURANTS Meituan Dianping 2019 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide G Restaurant Awards 2018 LIM WEI HRN (RWS) GOLD Worldchefs Global Pastry Chefs Challenge 2018 (KL)

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 85 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS &

ACCOLADES ENTERTAINMENT MANHATTAN OPERATION DAGGER JIGGER AND PONY OPERATION DAGGER #2 #19 #42 #23 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 World’s 50 Best Bars 2018

ATLAS GIBSON THE OTHER ROOM 28 HONGKONG STREET #4 #22 #50 #34 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 World’s 50 Best Bars 2018

THE TIPPLING CLUB EMPLOYEES ONLY MANHATTAN ZOUK SINGAPORE #7 #23 #3 #3 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 World’s 50 Best Bars 2018 DJ Mag Top 100

NATIVE D.BESPOKE ATLAS CE LA VI #8 #32 #8 #67 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 World’s 50 Best Bars 2018 DJ Mag Top 100

28 HONGKONG STREET NUTMEG & CLOVE NATIVE #12 #33 #13 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018 World’s 50 Best Bars 2018

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 86 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES

HOSPITALITY MARINA BAY SANDS WORLD’S BEST CASINO HOTEL SPA 2018 RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA ASIA’S LEADING FULLY INTEGRATED - BANYAN TREE SPA BEST INTEGRATED RESORT (ASIA PACIFIC) RESORT World Spa Awards 2018 Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ World Travel Awards 2018 Choice Award 2018 SINGAPORE’S BEST HOTEL SPA 2018 - WORLD’S MOST LUXURIOUS SPA - BANYAN TREE SPA BEST INTEGRATED RESORT BANYAN TREE SPA World Spa Awards 2018 TTG Travel Awards 2018 Forbes Travel Guide - 2018 Verified Lists LUXURY RESORT SPA COUNTRY FOUR-STAR SPA - BANYAN TREE SPA WINNER - ESPA Forbes Travel Guide - 2019 Star Award World Spa Awards 2018

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 87 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 AWARDS & ACCOLADES

SUSTAINABILITY SINGAPORE TOURISM MARINA BAY SANDS MARINA BAY CRUISE CENTRE ANALYTICS NETWORK EXISTING BUILDINGS: OPERATIONS SINGAPORE (STAN) & MAINTENANCE – LEED GOLD GREEN MARK GOLD SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD CERTIFICATION (ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM) Building and Construction Authority (BCA) 2018 TOP 19 SMART CITY PROJECTS LEED (Leadership in Energy and Green Mark 2018 IN ASIA/PACIFIC - TOURISM, ARTS, Environmental Design) LIBRARIES, CULTURE, OPEN SPACES (AS TOURISM COURT PART OF “SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD GREEN MARK PLATINUM AWARD GREEN MARK PLATINUM TO ENHANCE VISITOR EXPERIENCE Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Building and Construction Authority (BCA) USING DATA ANALYTICS AND ICT”) Green Mark 2018 Green Mark 2019 2018 International Data Corporation (IDC) Smart City Asia Pacific Awards (SCAPA) RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA STB DATA CENTRE GREEN MARK GOLDPLUS - UNIVERSAL GREEN MARK GOLD 2018 BEST USE OF DATA STUDIOS SINGAPORE Building and Construction Authority (BCA) GovInsider Innovation Awards Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Green Mark 2019 Green Mark 2018 NOMINEE OF BEST ADOPTION - RETAIL PUBLIC SECTOR RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA MARINA BAY SANDS SG:D Techblazer Awards GREEN MARK PLATINUM AWARD - EXCELLENCE IN RETAIL / SHOPPER MARITIME EXPERIENTIAL MUSEUM MARKETING (SILVER) - LITTLE LUXURY Building and Construction Authority (BCA) STARS 2018 Green Mark Marketing Excellence Awards 2018 SINGAPORE EXPO GREEN MARK GOLDPLUS Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Green Mark 2019

MAX ATRIA @ SINGAPORE EXPO GREEN MARK PLATINUM Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Green Mark 2019

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 88 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

STB recognises the importance of a strong corporate governance culture to enabling sustainable growth. In 2018/2019, we continued to build on our robust corporate governance foundation by taking active measures to further enhance our governance standards. Board Governance

Responsibilities of the Board plays. A review of the Directors’ membership Table 1 The Board oversees and monitors STB’s on the Board is done when his or her official Directors’ Attendance at Board Meetings in organisational performance and achievement term of appointment ends. FY 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019 of strategic goals and objectives. It assumes the responsibility of reviewing and approving The Board is given the mandate to act Scheduled Board Board Workshop corporate strategies, budgets and financial plans. independently and to exercise objective Meetings judgment on the STB’s corporate affairs. This Name of Director Number Number Number Number Board Composition and Appointment is to ensure that checks and balances are Held Attended Held Attended From 1 April 2018 to 31 December 2018, there instituted. Apart from Mr Keith Tan and Mr were eleven Directors on the Board. Following Quek Swee Kuan, the other Directors on the Mr Chaly Mah 5 5 1 1 the stepping down of Mr Lionel Yeo on Board are Independent Directors. A Director’s Mr Lionel Yeo1 5 1 1 0 31 May 2018, the appointment of Mr Keith Tan independence is re-assessed at the point of Mr Keith Tan2 5 2 1 1 on 29 October 2018, the retirement of each re-appointment. Ms Joanna Flint 5 4 1 1 Ms Christina Ong on 31 December 2018 and Ms Audrey Kuah3 5 1 1 0 the appointments of Ms Audrey Kuah and Conduct of Board Affairs Mrs Wong Ai Ai on 1 January 2019, there were The Board approves financial transactions Mr Allen Law 5 5 1 1 twelve Directors on the Board from 1 January above a certain financial limit. A regular Mr Alvin Lim 5 5 1 1 2019 to 31 March 2019. Mr Chaly Mah, review of the financial authorisation and Mr Lim Eng Hwee 5 5 1 1 Ms Joanna Flint, Mr Allen Law, Mr Prasad approval limits is performed. During each Mr Lim Ming Yan 5 4 1 1 Menon and Mr Saiful Saroni were re-appointed financial year, the Directors are requested Mr Prasad Menon 5 4 1 1 to the Board with effect from 1 January 2019. to complete an annual Board Evaluation Ms Christina Ong4 5 3 1 1 Questionnaire that allows the STB to assess The size and composition of the Board are the overall administration of Board matters and Mr Quek Swee Kuan 5 4 1 1 guided by the clauses stated in the STB Act, engagements with the Board. Mr Saiful Saroni 5 5 1 1 with the eventual composition subject to Mrs Wong Ai Ai3 5 1 1 0 approval by the Cabinet. The desired outcome Under the year in review, there were a total of is the provision of a conducive environment for five scheduled Board meetings and a one-day 1 Mr Lionel Yeo stepped down as Chief Executive (CE), STB and Board Member on 31 May 2018, and was scheduled effective discussions and decision-making. The Board Workshop to discuss key strategic issues. for one Board Meeting. Acting CE Melissa Ow was scheduled for two Board Meetings. process for the appointment of Directors to A record of the Directors’ attendance at Board 2 Mr Keith Tan was appointed as STB CE on 29 October 2018 and was scheduled for two Board Meetings. the Board is kept formal and transparent as this meetings during the financial year, which is critical to the role that corporate governance ended on 31 March 2019, is set out in Table 1. 3 Ms Audrey Kuah and Mrs Wong Ai Ai were appointed to the Board with effect from 1 January 2019 and were both scheduled for one Board Meeting.

4 Ms Christina Ong retired from the Board with effect from 31 December 2018 and was scheduled for four Board Meetings.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 90 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Board Governance

Corporate Governance Table 2 Directors are given access to the STB’s records Directors’ Board Committee memberships and Attendance at and information, senior management, or any Board Committee Meetings in FY 1 April 2018 to 31 March 2019 other staff of the organisation as deemed necessary for them to effectively discharge their Audit and Risk Committee Finance and Investment Governance Committee Human Resource responsibilities and to deliberate meaningfully on Meetings (ARC) Committee Meetings (FIC) Meetings Management Committee issues discussed at Board meetings. Meetings (HRMC) Name of Director Number Number Number Number Number Number Number Number The following Board Committees assist the Held Attended Held Attended Held Attended Held Attended Board in executing its duties: Mr Chaly Mah 1 1 3 3 1 • Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) Mr Lionel Yeo 3 0 1 1 3 0 • Finance and Investment Committee (FIC) Mr Keith Tan2 3 1 1 0 3 2 • Governance Committee Ms Joanna Flint 3 2 • Human Resource Management Ms Audrey Kuah3 3 0 Committee (HRMC) Mr Allen Law 3 3 A record of each Director’s Board Committee Mr Alvin Lim 3 2 memberships and attendance at Board Mr Lim Eng Hwee 3 2 Committee meetings during the financial year, Mr Lim Ming Yan 3 3 which ended on 31 March 2019, is set out in Mr Prasad Menon 1 1 Table 2. Ms Christina Ong4 3 3 Mr Quek Swee Kuan 3 2 Mr Saiful Saroni 3 3 Mrs Wong Ai Ai3 3 0

1 Mr Lionel Yeo stepped down as STB CE and Board Member on 31 May 2018, and was scheduled for one Governance Committee Meeting. Acting CE Melissa Ow was scheduled for two FIC meetings and one HRMC meeting.

2 Mr Keith Tan was appointed as STB CE on 29 October 2018 and was scheduled for two HRMC meetings and one FIC meeting.

3 Ms Audrey Kuah and Mrs Wong Ai Ai were appointed to the ARC with effect from 1 January 2019 and had not been scheduled for a meeting.

4 Ms Christina Ong retired from the ARC on 31 December 2018.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 91 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 Accountability, Internal Controls and Risk Management

Audit and Risk Committee the STB. The ARC ensures that a review of the International Professional Practices Framework policy, objectives, guidelines, strategies and The Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) comprised effectiveness of the STB’s internal controls – issued by the Institute of Internal Auditors. The appointment of external fund manager(s) in three independent and non-executive Directors including financial, operational and compliance adequacy of funding and staffing of the Internal respect of surplus funds available for financial until 1 January 2019, at which time there was controls, and risk management – takes place Audit and its appropriate standing within the STB investments and reviews these matters at least a change in composition to four Directors. At annually through the various audits performed is ensured by the ARC. once a year. The Committee also ensures least two members of the ARC have the requisite internally and through related reports issued that financial investments are conducted in accounting or related financial management to the ARC. For certain projects or areas where The Internal Audit adopts risk-based auditing compliance with statutory legislation and expertise to discharge their responsibilities independent expertise is specially required as its key audit assurance practice. It provides government directives. and duties. in connection with the review of controls, regional offices, major process owners and external professionals and service providers are policymakers of the STB, with reasonable Governance Committee The responsibilities of the ARC are stated in the appointed accordingly. assurance on the effectiveness of control and The Governance Committee comprises three terms of reference, which include ensuring the governance processes in the management of Directors, including the Chairman of the Board. adequacy of internal controls and reviewing External Audit risks and accomplishment of objectives. The Committee’s main focus is to ensure audit plans, audit reports and audited STB As part of the annual financial statements audit, the effectiveness of the Board and Board Annual Financial Statements. Besides overseeing the external auditors conduct a review of the Whistleblowing Policy Committees. To ensure that the Board has the accountability and audit, the ARC also assists significant internal controls. Such controls are The STB has in-place a whistleblowing policy to appropriate balance of skills and experience to the Board by providing oversight of the STB’s mainly determined by the purpose of the audit allow employees, vendors, partners of the STB deal with the strategic issues and challenges Enterprise Risk Management Framework and the scope of works under the audit plan. and the general public to report malpractices facing the STB, the Governance Committee through regular risk management reports from Any material non-compliance and/or internal and misconduct in the workplace. The policy reviews the size and composition of the Management. control weaknesses, together with the external aims to encourage the reporting of such matters Board, and recommends new appointments auditors’ recommendations, are addressed and in good faith, with the confidence that persons and renewals of Directors. It also assumes The ARC has explicit authority to investigate made known to the ARC. making such reports will be treated fairly and, the responsibility for conducting an annual any matter within its terms of reference; it to the fullest extent possible, protected from evaluation of the Board’s effectiveness. also has full access to, and co-operation of, To maintain the independence of the external reprisals. All whistleblower reports, including the Management. It has direct access to the Internal auditors, the ARC has reviewed the nature and identity of the whistleblower will be treated with Human Resource Management Committee Audit and external auditors with full discretion extent of non-audit services provided by the confidentiality. Reports can be lodged directly to The Human Resource Management Committee to invite any Board Member or Management external auditors during the year and the fees STB Internal Audit via email at [email protected]. (HRMC) comprises four Directors, including staff to attend its meetings. In addition, the paid for such services. The ARC is satisfied the Chairman of the Board. Its responsibilities ARC also met with the external auditors and that the independence of the external auditors Finance and Investment Committee include providing guidance on leadership staff of Internal Audit without the presence of has not been impaired by the provision of The Finance and Investment Committee (FIC) development and talent management matters; Management, during the financial year. In order those services. The external auditors have also comprises four Directors. Its responsibilities reviewing compensation policies and structures to properly discharge its function and duties, provided confirmation of its independence to are broadly categorised into Finance and Fund to ensure competitiveness; endorsing the reasonable resources are made available to the ARC. Management. It endorses STB workplans and promotion of officers to or within Salary Grade the ARC. budget before submission to the STB Board 15 and above (i.e. the equivalent of Superscale Internal Audit for approval. The Committee also approves Grades in the Civil Service); the assessment Internal Controls The Internal Audit reports functionally to the tenders, expenditures and proposed changes of the STB’s performance report to the Board The Board ensures that Management maintains Chairman of the ARC and administratively to to the STB’s Financial Regulations (except for of Directors; and reviewing and approving a sound system of internal controls to safeguard the Chief Executive. As part of its auditing, the government procurement procedures and recommendations on disciplinary matters the interests of stakeholders and the assets of the Internal Audit is guided by the current virements). It approves the STB’s investment pertaining to members of senior Management.

SINGAPORE ANNUAL REPORT 92 TOURISM BOARD 2018/2019 SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD

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