Champion REIT holds first ‘ESG Week’

HONG KONG, July 18, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Champion Real Estate Investment Trust (“Champion REIT” or the “Trust”) (Stock Code: 2778), owner of Three Garden Road and Langham Place, hosted “Champion REIT ESG Week” following the inaugural ESG Forum last year, aiming to foster connection among business leaders, tenants and social organisations to create a value-added ecosystem with synergies and shared values, as well as joining force to promote sustainable development and social benefits. With novel initiatives instilled with creativity and fresh ideas, the event received overwhelming response with more than 300 attendees, twice the figures from last year.

Collaborating with over 20 partners and organisations to create shared values

Strategic partners of the event included organisations from various sectors, such as Business Environment Council, Fullness Social Enterprises Society, International WELL Building Institute (“IWBI”), RethinkHK, and The Women’s Foundation. The event brought together professionals from respective industries, and tenants such as Citi, perFACE and social organisations for knowledge exchange and sharing, collectively driving sustainable development and creating shared values for mutually beneficial outcomes.

Gathering professionals to explore green issues and recognising outstanding tenants

The event kicked off with a Climate Panel. Experienced ESG practitioners from Business Environment Council, resources recycling company ALBA, environmental social enterprise V Cycle, and beauty brand L’Occitane were invited to dive into the approaches for encouraging corporate and social behavioural changes to accelerate the circular economy development. An award presentation ceremony was also held to recognise office tenants who have achieved outstanding energy saving and energy reduction during the “Green Champion Challenge”. Amongst which Bloomberg L.P. obtained the Grand Champion – the highest honour of the competition (please refer to Appendix 1 for the detailed winners list). The Trust also co-organised a WELL Summit with IWBI, inviting several professionals from the architecture and building sectors to share their insights circling on the theme “From Commitment to Action: Fostering a Thriving Health-centric Ecosystem”, bringing into focus the inseparable relationship between green buildings development and human well-being enhancement.

Pioneering Social Impact Pitch to promote culture of diversity and inclusion

In addition to championing climate resilience, the Trust stays committed to manifest the importance of striking a balance between social and environmental wellbeing. Thus, the event also featured Crisel Consunji, the winner of Best New Performer at the Hong Kong Film Awards for her role in “Still Human” and early childhood educator, to join Fiona Nott, CEO of Women’s Foundation, on a thought-provoking conversation to uphold values that embrace diversity and inclusion, and shed light on strengthening awareness building among the next generation.

The Trust also organised the inaugural innovative Social Impact Pitch in collaboration with the Fullness Social Enterprises Society, inviting 10 local social enterprises across sectors, including newly emerged sports, smart ageing service, diverse community culture, eco-friendly clothing, and mental health, to showcase innovative business models and ideas to cater to different needs of society while promoting a culture that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion. The winning organisations will be invited to a “Lunch with Executives” session to broaden their horizons on conducting business and explore new ideas on sustainable development.

The event will be concluded by Musica del Cuore concert at Three Garden Road, a piano and cello duo recital featuring renowned instrumentalist, conductor, and guest principal cellist of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, Dr. Artem Konstantinov, and young award-winning scholar of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, Peter Leung, captivating the audience with an unforgettable audiovisual performance.

Ms Christina Hau, Chief Executive Officer of Champion REIT, said, “We have long acknowledged the importance of social responsibility. As a ‘super connector’, the Trust has been working together with like-minded partners to co-create shared values, and actively driving projects that yield both social and commercial benefits. In acknowledgement of the interrelation of economic and social progress, we cultivate mutually beneficial relationships across sectors. By embracing an open attitude towards cooperation, advocating for the “Business for Good” concept, along with integrating the concept of shared values into our corporate strategies and daily operations, we aim to create value for our stakeholders while championing all-round resilience of our ecosystem, ultimately contributing to a better Net Zero future.”

Ms Daisy Ng, Chief Catalyst Officer of Fullness Social Enterprises Society, said, “Over the years, we have been upholding our 1+1>2 cross-sector multi-win business model, employing innovative and effective ways to promote urban transformation. The collaboration project with the Trust is another showcase of forward-thinking business through utilising the values of social entrepreneurship to support those in social needs. The Social Impact Pitch initiative with diversity, equality and inclusion as core themes sparks new thinking among participants to come up with new solutions for another facet of corporate management culture. In taking the lead for corporate social collaboration, the Trust has laid a foundation to enable connections between different sectors and resources, and to help foster upward social mobility of the disadvantaged.”

Mr Richard Chang, Vice President of the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) China, said: “WELL is a leading tool for enhancing health and well-being in companies and organisations. The Trust is at a leading role in implementing WELL and sustainability practices. As an industry pioneer, it has set an industry benchmark for innovative and sustainable management strategies.”

Appendix 1: Climate Panellists of “Green transitions: Influencing Organisational and Social Behavioural Change towards a Circular Economy”

Roles	Names
Moderator	Mr Simon Ng, Chief Executive Officer, Business Environment Council
Panellist	Mr Eric Swinton, Founder & CEO, V Cycle
Panellist	Ir Kenny Wong, Director, Business Development and Projects – Hong Kong of ALBA Group Asia Ltd.
Panellist	Ms Venisa Chu, Regional Sustainability Director – APAC, L’Occitane Group

Appendix 2: Awardees List of Green Champion Challenge

Award Categories	Awardees
Grand Champion	Bloomberg L.P.
Star Achiever of Three Garden Road	Bloomberg L.P.
Star Achiever of Langham Place Office Tower	perFACE
Green Enlighteners	1.BlackRock Asset Management North Asia Limited 2.Bloomberg L.P. 3.Citi
Green Movers	1.Ariose Capital Management Limited 2.EC Healthcare 3.Perfect Medical Health Management Limited

*in alphabetical order

Appendix 3: Speakers of “From Commitment to Action: Fostering a Thriving Health-centric Ecosystem”

	Names
1.	Mr Richard Zhang, Vice President, IWBI China
2.	Mr Andy Ling Leng, Senior Project Manager, Hong Kong, BEE Incorporations
3.	Mr Benny Cheng, Vice President, Strategic Account Management and Meeting Place, Console Connect, PCCW Global
4.	Ms Jade Liu, Asia Marketing Strategy and Operation Manager, Milliken Floor Covering
5.	Ms Jenny Yeung, Head of Hong Kong & Macau, Real Estate Services, Citi
6.	Mr Man Kit Leung, Director of Sustainable Design, Ronald Lu & Partners
7.	Mr Remus Lam, Marketing Director, Delos Welltek
8.	Mr Stefano Tronci, Associate Principal, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP

*in alphabetical order

Appendix 4: List of winning social enterprises for Social Impact Pitch

Award Category	Winning Social Enterprises
The Outstanding ESG Social Integration Award	Nature Bathing
The Outstanding Business Model Award	Retrovert
The Outstanding Brand Marketing Award	Project Futurus
The Outstanding Social Impact Brand	1.Diamond Cab 2.The Peak Hunter

*in alphabetical order

Photo captions:

Champion REIT ESG Week provided a platform of collective exchange

Ms Christina Hau (left) received the WELL Platinum plaque from Mr Richard
Chang, Vice President of the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI)
China (right), symbolising Three Garden Road’s re-certification success

A group of seasoned ESG practitioners engaged in the Climate Panel

Guests jointly attended the launch ceremony of Champion REIT’s
“EcoChampion Pledge” initiative

The Fireside Chat between Crisel Consunji and Fiona Nott took a positive
and future-focused approach on fostering equitable and inclusive
development among the younger generations

The social enterprise “Inherited Sports” led the audience in stretching
exercise after a day of inspiration

About Champion REIT (2778)

Champion Real Estate Investment Trust is a trust formed to own and invest in income- producing office and retail properties. The Trust focuses on Grade-A commercial properties in prime locations. It currently offers investors direct exposure to nearly 3 million sq. ft. of prime office and retail area. These include two Hong Kong landmark properties, Three Garden Road and Langham Place, as well as a joint venture stake in 66 Shoe Lane in Central London. The Trust was awarded the top five-star rating by the Global Real Estate Sustainability Standard (GRESB) in 2023.

Website: www.championreit.com

KSL Capital Partners & Soneva Resorts: A Cautionary Tale of Due Diligence

BANGKOK, July 12, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – KSL Capital Partners, a prominent private equity firm boasting over 165 companies in its portfolio and managing a staggering $21 billion in assets, is known for its keen eye for exceptional businesses. With a focus on operational expertise and collaborative partnerships, one might wonder how such a powerhouse could find itself entangled in the web of controversy surrounding Soneva Resorts and its CEO, Sonu Shivdasani.

Soneva, formerly Soneva Resorts and Residences, stands as a testament to luxury hospitality, with its roots tracing back to its founding in the Maldives in 1995 by Sonu Shivdasani and his wife, Eva Malmström Shivdasani. However, beneath its lavish facade lie a series of legal battles and controversies that should have raised red flags during any thorough due diligence process.

One of the most damning revelations surrounds Soneva’s association with Ahmed Adeeb, the former Minister of Tourism in the Maldives, who is now imprisoned for corruption. In 2018, an OCCRP report shed light on Soneva’s partnership with Adeeb, exposing how the Shivdasanis obtained the island of Medhufaru, now home to their Soneva Jani resort, through a dubious no-bid contract facilitated by Adeeb. This revelation not only tarnished Soneva’s reputation but also implicated the resort in a larger scandal of corruption and embezzlement.

Furthermore, Soneva Kiri Resort in Thailand faced legal scrutiny following a devastating fire in March 2022. Investigations revealed that the resort was not constructed in compliance with safety standards, leading to charges against Sonu Shivdasani and other executives for negligence and endangerment. Shockingly, it was reported that the villa where the fire originated had never been inspected for fire safety, highlighting a blatant disregard for regulations. Sonu was even summoned for questioning by the Thai criminal authorities, but he refused to appear.

In yet another lawsuit, Sonu Shivdasani was accused of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme to deceive investors into purchasing properties at the Soneva Kiri Resort. A Swiss individual alleged that Shivdasani failed to deliver a villa and surrounding land worth $6.2 million, leading to a legal battle that spanned multiple jurisdictions. This case not only exposed the dark underbelly of Soneva’s business practices but also raised questions about the due diligence process undertaken by investors like KSL Capital Partners.

So, how could a firm like KSL, renowned for its operational expertise and rigorous due diligence, be blindsided by the controversies surrounding Soneva and Sonu Shivdasani? The answer lies in a failure to dig deep enough into the company’s history and practices.

While KSL’s operational perspective undoubtedly provides valuable insights into the hospitality industry, it appears that their due diligence process fell short in assessing the ethical and legal implications of partnering with Soneva. A more comprehensive investigation should have raised concerns about Soneva’s opaque dealings with corrupt officials, its disregard for safety standards, and its alleged involvement in fraudulent schemes.

Moving forward, KSL and other investors must adopt a more holistic approach to due diligence, one that goes beyond financial metrics to scrutinize the integrity and ethical standards of potential partners. This may involve conducting thorough background checks, engaging independent auditors to assess compliance with regulations, and scrutinizing past legal disputes for any red flags.

Also, investors must prioritize transparency and accountability in their partnerships, ensuring that their portfolio companies adhere to the highest standards of ethics and governance. By learning from the cautionary tale of Soneva, KSL and others can mitigate the risks of being hoodwinked into investing in companies with questionable practices, safeguarding both their reputations and their bottom lines.

About KSL

KSL’s unmatched 30-year track record investing exclusively in Travel & Leisure drives our ability to identify and execute on investments. We bring our operator-first mindset, first-hand experience and commitment to responsible stewardship to partner with best-in-class management teams designed to achieve exceptional outcomes. For more information, visit https://www.kslcapital.com/. Media Contact:

Archie Knowles
Support@P2Markets.com
Source: P2Markets.Com

2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Greater Niseko) to honour Japan’s premier resort market

NISEKO, July 2, 2024 – (JCN Newswire) – The 2024 edition of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Greater Niseko) is now accepting entries across a broad range of categories that aims to elevate the standards of development and design in Japan’s alpine real estate markets.

The presentation ceremony of the 2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Greater Niseko) will be held during an exclusive gala luncheon on Friday, 13 December at The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok, where finalists from East Asia and Middle East will also participate.

Submissions from eligible entrants from the Greater Niseko region are being accepted via asiapropertyawards.com until 13 September 2024.

Key dates for the 2024 edition:
13 September 2024 – Entries close
23 September to 14 October 2024 – Site Inspections
15 October 2024 – Final Judging
13 December 2024 – Greater Niseko Awards Luncheon in Bangkok, Thailand
13 December 2024 – Regional Grand Final Awards Gala Dinner in Bangkok, Thailand

Japan’s finest alpine real estate rises at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards 2023. The presentation ceremony of the 2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Greater Niseko) will be held during an exclusive gala luncheon on Friday, 13 December at the Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok.

Influx of tourists, investors

Since reopening its borders, Japan has seen a significant influx of tourism and real estate investment, driven by its popular destinations like Niseko and the low currency value, making spending cost-effective. The dollar strength has also improved sentiment towards the country’s resort real estate market.

The latest edition of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Greater Niseko) features a diverse range of categories reflecting the growing appeal of Japan’s alpine real estate to international property seekers.

This year’s awards programme is accepting entries across several new categories, including Best Investment Condo Development and Best Investment Housing Development. Other categories are poised to recognise Greater Niseko’s finest lifestyle developments, nature-integrated projects, and sales galleries.

Placing more emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) global standards, this year’s awards include all-new recognitions for developers within Greater Niseko that excel in sustainable design, sustainable construction, energy efficiency, and social impact.

Jules Kay, general manager of Awards and Events at PropertyGuru Group, said: “We invite nominations for this year’s awards in Japan as we recognise the dynamic and multifaceted growth of its resort industry. We’re pleased to see international investors capitalising on the immense potential of Japan’s resorts and launch developments that enhance convenience and lifestyle options for tourists, skiers, and snowboarders. Beyond the winter season, these resorts present untapped opportunities with their scenic beauty, year-round onsens, mountain biking trails, and premier golf courses. Join us this year in celebrating the properties transforming Japan’s resort market.”

Transparent, fair, credible

An independent panel of judges, comprising experts in the property sector and related fields, determines this year’s distinguished crop of winners. The judges conduct a transparent, fair, and credible selection process under the supervision of HLB, the global advisory and accounting network.

Eddie Guillemette, chairperson of the Awards in Greater Niseko and CEO of Midori no Ki (MnK), said: “The Asia Property Awards offer an opportunity for developers to distinguish their brands in an increasingly competitive property market. In the Japanese alpine market, developers can use the awards process to hone their message to attract guests, sports enthusiasts, and investors with unique designs, complimentary services, and all-season attractions. Winning a regional award like this validates a real estate project and ultimately helps build trust with consumers.”

Top winners will get the chance to compete with their peers from across the region for the coveted titles of “Best in Asia” at the 19th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, which will be presented at the gala night on 13 December 2024 in Bangkok.

Hanacreek by Apex Property and Aki Niseko by Takuetsu Co., Ltd. represented Greater Niseko at the 18th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final in 2023 with prestigious wins for Best Housing / Landed Architectural Design (Asia) and Best Housing / Landed Interior Design (Asia), respectively.

The PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Greater Niseko) are part of the regional PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards series, which marks its 19th year in 2024. The series covers key markets across the region, spanning Southeast Asia, East Asia, South Asia, Middle East, and Oceania, with exclusive gala events and ceremonies that represent the most anticipated property events of the year.

Organised by PropertyGuru Group (NYSE:PGRU), the 2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Greater Niseko) are made possible by supporting association Niseko Tourism; official magazine Property Report by PropertyGuru; media partners Japan Today, Marketing in Asia, Powderlife, and Real Estate Japan; and official supervisor HLB.

For more information, email awards@propertyguru.com or visit the official website: asiapropertyawards.com.

ABOUT PROPERTYGURU ASIA PROPERTY AWARDS

PropertyGuru’s Asia Property Awards, established in 2005, are the region’s most exclusive and prestigious real estate awards programme. The Asia Property Awards are recognised as the ultimate hallmark of excellence in the Asian property sector. Boasting an independent panel of industry experts and trusted supervisors, the Awards have an unparalleled reputation for being credible, ethical, fair, and transparent.

In 2024, the Awards series is open to key property markets around the region. The exciting gala events welcome senior industry leaders and top media, as well as reach property agents and consumers via live streaming. Recognising excellence within each Asian market with a variety of categories, including green and sustainable development, each local awards programme will culminate in the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, which takes place after the PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate Summit during ‘PropertyGuru Week’ in December 2024.

For more information, please visit AsiaPropertyAwards.com

ABOUT PROPERTYGURU GROUP

PropertyGuru is Southeast Asia’s leading(1) PropTech company, and the preferred destination for over 34 million property seekers(2) to connect with almost 55,000 agents monthly(3) to find their dream home. PropertyGuru empowers property seekers with more than 2.8 million real estate listings(4), in-depth insights, and solutions that enable them to make confident property decisions across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

PropertyGuru.com.sg was launched in Singapore in 2007 and since then, PropertyGuru Group has made the property journey a transparent one for property seekers in Southeast Asia. In the last 16 years, PropertyGuru has grown into a high-growth PropTech company with a robust portfolio including leading property marketplaces and award-winning mobile apps across its core markets; mortgage marketplace, PropertyGuru Finance; home services platform, Sendhelper; a host of proprietary enterprise solutions under PropertyGuru For Business including DataSense, ValueNet, Awards, events and publications across Asia.

For more information, please visit: PropertyGuruGroup.com; PropertyGuru Group on LinkedIn

(1) Based on SimilarWeb data between July 2023 and December 2023.
(2) Based on Google Analytics data between July 2023 and December 2023.
(3) Based on data between October 2023 and December 2023.
(4) Based on data between October 2023 and December 2023.

PROPERTYGURU CONTACTS:

General Enquiries:
Richard Allan Aquino, Head of Brand & Marketing Services
M: +66 92 954 4154
E: allan@propertyguru.com

Sales & Nominations:
Orathai Chirapornchai (Petch), Head of Regional Sales
M: (+66) 61 929 2255
E: Petch@propertyguru.com

Media & Partnerships:
Nate Dacua, Senior Manager, Media & Marketing Services
M: +66 92 701 2519
E: nate@propertyguru.com

The Executive Centre Celebrates 30 Years as Asia’s Leading Premium Flexible Workspace Provider

HONG KONG, July 4, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – The Executive Centre (TEC), the leading premium flexible workspace provider serving over 48,000 Members across 36 cities in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, is proud to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year. Over the past three decades, the company has firmly established itself as a trusted partner for businesses of all sizes, delivering world-class facilities, unparalleled service, innovation, and quality.

“We are profoundly honored to reach this remarkable milestone and to have played an integral role in supporting the growth and prosperity of countless enterprises across the region,” remarked Paul Salnikow, Founder and CEO of The Executive Centre. “Our 30-year journey has been defined by our unwavering focus on giving clients the essential tools, resources, and bespoke support they require to thrive in a fast-changing and complex business landscape. We are proud to have worked with many of the world’s leading companies, with 83% of our client portfolio being MNCs and the balance being high net worth SMEs.”

Since its inception as a startup in 1994, The Executive Centre has grown to become one of the largest flexible workspace providers in Asia-Pacific, boasting an expansive portfolio of over 200 locations, generating USD 315 million in revenue, driven by an annual compounded growth rate of 18%.

To celebrate its 30th anniversary, The Executive Centre will host a series of events and activities throughout the year, including client appreciation gatherings, thought leadership forums, and community outreach initiatives. The company has also launched an upgrade to its MyTEC app, further strengthening its best-in-class offerings and additional services to enhance Members’ experiences and mark this auspicious occasion.

As The Executive Centre celebrates three decades of excellence, the company remains well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the premium workspace sector. TEC is committed to providing top-of-the-line services and facilities to its global Members, while looking towards the future with a clear vision for continued expansion and success.

About The Executive Centre

The Executive Centre (TEC) is Asia’s premium flexible workspace provider, opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1994 and today boasts over 200+ Centres in 36 cities and 16 markets. It is the third largest serviced office business in Asia.

The Executive Centre caters to ambitious professionals and industry leaders looking for more than just an office space – they are looking for a place for their organisation to thrive. TEC has cultivated an environment designed for success with a global network spanning Greater China, Southeast Asia, North Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Australia, with sights to go further and grow faster. Each Executive Centre offers a prestigious address with the advanced infrastructure to pre-empt, meet, and exceed the needs of its Members. Walking with Members through every milestone and achievement, The Executive Centre empowers ambitious professionals and organisations to succeed.

Privately owned and headquartered in Hong Kong, TEC provides first class Private and Shared Workspaces, Business Concierge Services, and Meeting & Events facilities to suit any business’ needs.

www.executivecentre.com

Press Enquiries

FGS Global
Kitty Lam
Kitty.Lam@fgsglobal.com / +852 6306 8851

The Executive Centre
Pebble Lee
Pebble_lee@executivecentre.com / +852 3951 9888

People’s Choice Awards return for 11th PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia in partnership with iProperty

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – PropertyGuru Group (NYSE:PGRU), Southeast Asia’s leading property technology company, is delighted to present the return of the highly anticipated People’s Choice Awards as part of the 11th PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia in partnership with iProperty 2024.

Voting for the People’s Choice Awards is now open until 14th July 2024

The People’s Choice Awards are special honours conferred upon Malaysia’s distinguished development companies based on their project quality, brand reputation, and consumer satisfaction. These categories are entirely voted for by consumers and audited by a third-party supervisor.

The first 500 voters will have the chance to win a prize voucher. Vote now via: https://peopleschoiceawards.asia/malaysia/vote/

This year’s voting runs from 1 July to 14 July 2024, offering property seekers the opportunity to make their voices heard and vote for their favourite and trusted developers. Only residents based in Malaysia are eligible to cast their vote.

Voting for the People’s Choice Awards 2024 is now open via: https://peopleschoiceawards.asia/malaysia/vote/

By participating in the People’s Choice Awards at the 11th PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia in partnership with iProperty 2024, voters take part in Malaysia’s leading real estate awards programme.

The People’s Choice Awards are in addition to the competitive categories of the PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia in partnership with iProperty. The black-tie gala dinner and presentation ceremony will be held on 25 October 2024 at The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur.

Key dates of the 2024 edition:
1-14 July 2024 – People’s Choice Awards voting period
15-17 July 2024 – Live Judging Days
25 October 2024 – Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Empowering consumers

Kenneth Soh, country manager for Malaysia at PropertyGuru Group, said: “We are excited to present the latest edition of the People’s Choice Awards, an initiative empowering you, our esteemed consumers, to identify and recognise developers who have distinguished themselves in the property sector. By participating in the voting process, you assert your preferences and incentivise Malaysian developers to prioritise the best interests of consumers. The feedback from property seekers is crucial, and these awards honour those who successfully build spaces for the greater good of the community.”

Introduced in 2014, the People’s Choice Awards have been integrated into the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards programme since PropertyGuru Malaysia and iProperty, the country’s two leading property portals, set a new single benchmark for excellence in real estate in 2022.

To maintain the integrity of the voting process, the results are independently verified by the official balloting partner, HLB Ler Lum Chew, a member of the “2024 Network of the Year” winner HLB International, the esteemed global network of independent professional accounting firms and business advisers.

Fair, credible, transparent judging

An 18-member, professional judging panel will provide their fair, credible, transparent perspectives on the entries to the PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia in partnership with iProperty. The judges, comprising experts in real estate and various fields, will take part in the Live Judging Days from 15 July to 17 July 2024 to recognise the best developers, developments, and designs in 105 award categories.

HLB Ler Lum Chew is also entrusted with overseeing the entire judging process and ensuring that it is conducted with integrity and transparency.

The PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia in partnership with iProperty are part of the regional PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards series, which marks its 19th year in 2024. The series covers key markets across the region, spanning Southeast Asia, East Asia, South Asia, and Oceania, with exclusive gala dinners and awards ceremonies that represent the most anticipated property events of the year.

Top winners in Malaysia in the competitive categories will get the chance to compete with their peers abroad for the coveted titles of “Best in Asia” at the 19th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, which will be presented on 13 December 2024 in Bangkok.

Organised by PropertyGuru Group (NYSE: PGRU), Southeast Asia’s leading property technology company, the 11th PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia in partnership with iProperty are supported by official portal partners PropertyGuru.com.my and iProperty.com.my; official ESG knowledge partners GreenRE and Malaysia Green Building Council; official magazine Property Report by PropertyGuru; media partners Kopi & Property, Marketing In Asia, Niaga Times, Penang Property Talk, The Grid Asia, The Malaysia Voice, and Top 10 Malaysia; and official supervisor HLB.

For more information, email awards@propertyguru.com or visit the official website: asiapropertyawards.com.

ABOUT PROPERTYGURU ASIA PROPERTY AWARDS

For more information, please visit AsiaPropertyAwards.com

ABOUT PROPERTYGURU GROUP

PropertyGuru is Southeast Asia’s leading1 PropTech company, and the preferred destination for over 34 million property seekers2 to connect with almost 55,000 agents monthly3 to find their dream home. PropertyGuru empowers property seekers with more than 2.8 million real estate listings4, in-depth insights, and solutions that enable them to make confident property decisions across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

For more information, please visit: PropertyGuruGroup.com; PropertyGuru Group on LinkedIn

PROPERTYGURU CONTACTS:

General Enquiries:
Richard Allan Aquino, Head of Brand & Marketing Services
M: +66 92 954 4154
E: allan@propertyguru.com

Sales & Nominations:
June Fong, Events Director & Head of Awards (Malaysia)
M: +6019-319 0127
E: june.fong@iproperty.com.my

Media & Partnerships:
Nate Dacua, Senior Manager, Media & Marketing Services
M: +66 92 701 2519
E: nate@propertyguru.com

Singapore-based Elite Partners Capital acquires Automotive Giant’s Global Logistics Center in close proximity to Stuttgart, Germany

SINGAPORE, June 27, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Elite Partners Capital announced its latest logistics acquisition in close proximity to Stuttgart, the automotive capital of Germany.

The large-scale multi-user logistics park located within Ettlingen West’s Industrial Zone boasts outstanding transportation infrastructure, including direct connections to the A5, A8 and A65 motorways, access to the Port of Karlsruhe – a major inland port along the Rhine waterway, as well as proximity to major international airports in Frankfurt and Stuttgart. The logistics park is also well-served by local buses and the suburban railway network, ensuring availability of a skilled workforce for warehouses and offices located in and around the property.

Spanning across a large site of c.180,000 sqm, the logistics park is in excellent condition and offers great third-party reusability by virtue of its contiguous but highly flexible layout. Leveraging on its strategic location in close proximity to Stuttgart, over 85% of the property’s net lettable area is currently tenanted to an automotive giant on a long lease, serving as their global logistics center. Elite Partners Capital will be working closely with the tenant to further enhance the property’s ESG specifications over the upcoming years. Post-enhancement, the property is expected to attain DGNB Gold Certification. The logistics park’s remaining lettable areas are tenanted to a good mix of innovative engineering businesses, supporting the region’s next-gen industrial growth.

Elite Partners Capital acquired the logistics park through its flagship Elite Logistics Fund II, a Pan-European logistics fund backed by a sovereign wealth fund alongside a strong network of family offices across Asia. Elite had previously divested the first installment of its Logistic Fund Series (Elite Logistics Fund I) to Blackstone in 2021, achieving an attractive IRR of over 30%.

“We have been closely monitoring the logistics market across Pan-European cities, targeting quality assets with strong tenant covenants and compelling value-add opportunities”, said Victor Song, co-founder and chief executive officer of Elite Partners Capital. “The stabilizing interest rates presents a strategic window of opportunity for our investors to re-enter the market,” added Song.

The asset was sold by a joint venture between TPG Angelo Gordon and aam2core Holdings AG. The landmark transaction was brokered by CBRE’s Capital Markets team in Germany. Taylor Wessing, Alvarez and Marsal and TA Europe were the appointed advisers for Elite Partners Capital in this transaction. Their invaluable practical and commercial insight were crucial in ensuring the successful closure of the deal.

About Elite Partners Capital

Elite Partners Capital is an alternative investment manager specializing in niche opportunities and underserved markets. The firm is headquartered in Singapore, with offices in London, Prague, and Luxembourg. To date, the firm has managed assets in excess of S$2 billion across 7 countries, a 420% increase from where it started in 2017.

For Media Enquiries, Please Contact:
Orphelia Huang
AVP, Investor Relations
orpheliahuang@elitepartnerscapital.com

High-resolutions images can be downloaded here.

Hong Kong’s Construction Industry to Maintain Stable Growth in 2024

HONG KONG, June 21, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Hong Kong’s construction industry is set for stable growth in 2024 as the economy continues to recover in the aftermath of COVID-19, according to the latest Hong Kong market intelligence report from global professional services company, Turner & Townsend.

The report highlights a robust pipeline of key public and private sector projects focusing on housing, public infrastructure, and investments into technology, such as the anticipated railway projects designed to enhance connectivity and transport options for travel and freight within the Greater Bay Area (GBA).

Hong Kong’s GDP is forecast to grow between 2.5 to 3.5 percent in 2024, following a 3.2 percent increase in 2023. Due to an expected dip in private sector construction activity and spending on public projects this year, Hong Kong’s construction industry tender prices are predicted to rise by 2.0 percent in 2024, compared to 4.0 percent in 2023, 3.0 percent in 2022, and 5.0 percent in 2021.

A stronger Hong Kong dollar and reduced demand for materials from Mainland China are expected to lower material costs this year. The price of galvanised mild steel plates dropped by 18.3 percent from December 2022 to December 2023, while sand decreased by 4.1 percent, and aggregates by 8.3 percent. High tensile steel bars saw a 7.3 percent decrease, while Portland cement had a slight increase of 0.9 percent, and sawn hardwood costs remained unchanged.

Fluctuating material costs continue to pose a challenge for Hong Kong’s construction industry this year as the existing shortage of skilled workers, rising labour costs and high construction costs continue to hamper growth.

The Hong Kong government is committed to land and housing developments, with a target to provide 440,000 housing units by 2033-34, with a 70:30 split between public and private housing.

The report acknowledges the government’s positive 2024-25 budget policy, demonstrating a commitment to long-term investment in the construction industry. Capital works expenditure is projected to reach up to HK$90bn, focusing on enhancing infrastructure connectivity within the GBA through projects like the ‘GBA on the Rail’ initiative.

Technology remains a prime focus, with investments in the Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute (HKMSRDI) and the Cyberport 5 project. The establishment of a steering committee by the Development Bureau (DEVB) to enhance the use of Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) and evaluation of investment in the MiC supply chain is also expected to boost innovation and productivity in the construction industry.

These initiatives, alongside recommendations from the Digital Economy Development Committee (DEDC) aim to fast-track growth in the IT sector, adding 79,000 square metres of gross floor area to existing technology infrastructure.

Daniel Cheung, Director, Strategic Lead, Hong Kong & Macau, at Turner & Townsend, said: “The focus on the construction industry as a key pillar of Hong Kong’s growth continues, underscored by ongoing government commitment. The Budget focused on infrastructure spending reaffirms the government’s growth ambitions. With key projects reprioritised and newer funding models being deployed, especially with the Northern Metropolis project and transport infrastructure expansion, the government’s ability to enable higher efficiency and cost-consciousness in project delivery becomes imperative.

Overall, the construction market has moved towards a steady, yet cautious growth outlook given current macro-economic factors. As Hong Kong’s construction projects become larger and more complex, financial prudence and effective programme management becomes increasingly important in assessing and executing the most appropriate project delivery model to achieve planned project outcomes on time, secure procurement savings, and deliver lasting value to businesses and Hong Kong’s fast-evolving built environment.”

About Turner & Townsend

Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company with over 10,000 people in 48 countries. Collaborating with our clients across real estate, infrastructure and natural resources sectors, we specialise in major programmes, programme management, cost and commercial management, net zero and digital solutions.

We are majority-owned by CBRE Group, Inc., the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm, with our partners holding a significant minority interest. Turner & Townsend and CBRE work together to provide clients with the premier programme, project and cost management offering in markets around the world.

We are passionate about making the difference, transforming performance for a green, inclusive and productive world.www.turnerandtownsend.com

Notes to Editors

The full report can is available on the Turner & Townsend website: https://www.turnerandtownsend.com/en/perspectives/hong-kong-market-intelligence-strategising-for-growth-and-economic-resilience/?utm_source=pr&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=mi&utm_content=hkmi_1

For more information, please contact:
Dalvinder Jeet Kaur
PRecious Communications
Email: dalvinder@preciouscomms.com
Tel: +65 86978371

Southeast Asia’s Most Advanced Luxury Postpartum Centre Re’Joy Suites Opens in Singapore

SINGAPORE, June 10, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Re’Joy Suites (“Re’Joy”), Southeast Asia’s most advanced postpartum centre providing advanced care for mothers immediately after childbirth with a blend of Traditional Chinese Medicine (“TCM”) and modern healthcare in a luxury spa and hotel setting in Singapore, has been unveiled by the Joyre Group (“Joyre” or the “Group”).

With a built-up area of over 30,000 sqft (2787 sqm) and 30 rooms, the centre offers several world firsts dedicated to providing the highest level of ‘confinement’ care that resonates TCM philosophy with modern innovation such as acupuncture and moxibustion administered by robots and enabled with artificial intelligence.

Occupying three four-storey buildings at 3 Croucher Road, Re’Joy is within a 20-minutes’ drive to eight local hospitals, ensuring that mother and child can receive specialised care immediately after delivery.

New mums often experience post-partum symptoms during the first few weeks after childbirth. These ‘baby blues’ can include feelings of anxiety and mood swings, crying spells and sleep disorders, which can sometimes result in depression.

Asian mothers have for millennia practised ‘confinement’ to recuperate, often with a diet that includes TCM herbs and prescriptions. These traditions have persisted even with the advance of modern healthcare, leading to a gap in the market – identified by Joy’Re – to combine East and West in a bespoke setting. Mothers can recover “sitting in” or “lying in”, depending on different cultures and ethnic origins, between 21 to 100 days.

The Joy’Re facility also offers an all-round wellness experience, including tailored yoga sessions for postpartum recovery, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, postnatal and lactation massages, and sound bathing. Mothers can also enjoy classes for yoga, dance, and water exercise, and participate in social activities such as arts & crafts, mahjong, knitting and karaoke.

Each suite is meticulously designed with functionality, ensuring every mother’s comfort without compromising on style. Each room is fitted with a customised bathtub designed for TCM herbal medical post-natal baths and pull-out beds for guests.

Babies are cared for in dedicated nursery rooms with an oxygen delivery system, while parents can access a 24/7 live video feed from the suites. Additional services include baby massages, an immune therapy program as well as DNA and gut health testing for parents to better understand their child’s health and genetic make up.

Re’Joy offers three tiers of packages – Deluxe, Premium, and Platinum packages. Packages begin with a minimum stay of 28 days with customers having the flexibility to choose a stay period that fits their personal and medical needs.

Deluxe package customers will enjoy the comfort and style of Re’Joy’s Deluxe suites, each spanning an impressive 301 sqft (28 sqm), while the Premium or Platinum customers will stay in the 398 sqft (37 sqm) Premium suites, which feature additional amenities and space. The Platinum package offers the most comprehensive array of services and luxuries, ensuring the highest level of care and convenience.

Mothers will also enjoy up to five meals per day, prepared by in-house chefs. The meals are carefully curated by nutritionists and TCM practitioners, ensuring meals are delicious while supporting the recovery needs of postpartum mothers.

Re’Joy Suites marks Joyre Group’s inaugural venture into the postpartum confinement centre industry, building upon Joyre’s 19 years of expertise in providing premium spa treatments combined with TCM principles. The Group plans to expand Re’Joy’s portfolio of services to cover pre-natal care, as well as drop-off child care services.

Founded in 2005, Joyre is Singapore’s largest health, beauty and wellness Group with 14 brands and over 40 outlets islandwide offering spa services, medical aesthetic clinics, as well as healthcare and skincare product manufacturing and distribution. The Group has over 600 staff worldwide, 500 of which are in Singapore and the rest spread across Malaysia, Indonesia, China, the U.S., and Japan.

Ms Queenie Yang Rong, the founder of Joyre Group and Re’Joy Suites said “Joyre Group is excited to offer Re’Joy Suites as a fresh yet carefully curated luxury option for Asian mothers. Our dedicated facility is ready to provide the highest level of service, relieving our customers of the heavy demands of newborn care and allowing them to embrace the joys of their new family.”

“We intend to use Singapore as a springboard for our brand of postnatal care by leveraging our deep-rooted expertise in spa and wellness services to offer holistic healthcare and to set a new standard in the confinement centre industry.”

For more information about Re’Joy Suites, please visit https://rejoy.sg/about-us/ or contact

Re’Joy Suites
3 Croucher Road
Singapore 359566

Email: info@rejoy.sg
Facebook: rejoysuites
Instagram: rejoysuites
Website: www.rejoy.sg

About Re’Joy Suites

Re’Joy Suites is a luxury postpartum centre that combines the wisdom of the East with modern medical knowledge to provide personalised postnatal care through a holistic regime approach for mothers and their babies. Re’Joy Suites Confinement Center is operated by a team of dedicated healthcare and postpartum care professionals and offers the full suite of services including the care of medical doctors, trained nurses, lactation specialists, TCM physicians, specially curated meals, postpartum body treatments and aesthetic treatments.

About Joyre Group

Joyre Group is an internationally trusted and trailblazing brand in holistic well-being built on the foundation of science and TCM, leveraging highly professional services, quality products and technological innovations to meet the lifetime needs of a wide spectrum of consumers. We are the pioneer and leader in integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern spa treatments and beauty aesthetics services to deliver total wellness to all while adopting a suite of Advanced Biomedical Technology. At Joyre, we believe beauty is cultivated from the inside to the outside. Our personalised treatments are designed to match everyone’s body constitution and lifestyle to bring about a sense of balance and total wellness. Our finesse as an institution has garnered us several awards over the years.

The 11th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau) are now accepting entries across new, diverse categories

HONG KONG, June 6, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Organisers of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau) have announced an expanded roster of categories for the programme’s 2024 edition.

The 11th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau) are now accepting submissions ahead of the highly anticipated presentation ceremony on Friday, 13 December 2024. This prestigious event will be held at The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok, promising a day of celebration and recognition for outstanding achievements in the Chinese property sector.

Submissions from eligible entrants are currently being accepted via asiapropertyawards.com until 13 September 2024.

Key dates for the 2024 edition:
13 September 2024 – Entries close
23 September – 14 October 2024 – Site Inspections (Hong Kong and Macau)
16-17 October 2024 – Final Judging
13 December 2024 – Awards Ceremony in Bangkok, Thailand
13 December 2024 – Regional Grand Final Gala Presentation in Bangkok, Thailand

Embracing change, underscoring innovation

The latest edition of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau) features an expanded list of categories that embrace change and underscore innovation in the real estate industry.

New categories in 2024 include titles for affordable residential developers as well as the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) awards for companies that lead in sustainable design, sustainable construction, energy efficiency, and social impact.

Outstanding projects can also compete for new categories distinguishing the country’s finest investment properties; lifestyle developments; nature-integrated projects; and sales galleries.

Jules Kay, general manager of PropertyGuru Awards and Events, said: “Following the successful return of our awards programme to a physical format last year, we eagerly anticipate another celebration of success in China this year, recognising exemplary leaders and professionals in property development, architecture, and design. With innovative ideas and a commitment to quality, the real estate industry across Asia demonstrates resilience and adapts to challenges. As the Gold Standard of real estate, we believe the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards inspire creativity, stimulate solutions, elevate standards, and will ultimately help drive positive outcomes for the property sector in China.”

The Best in Asia

Top winners will have an opportunity to compete with their peers for the coveted titles of “Best in Asia” at the 19th Annual PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final on 13 December 2024.

China showcased exceptional projects at last year’s 18th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final where developments such as The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong by Sino Land Company Limited; M8 by China Construction Engineering (Macau) Company Limited; and New Bund 31 by Shun Tak Qiantan (Shanghai) Cultural and Real Estate Company Limited garnered regional acclaim.

The winners of the 2024 awards will be determined by an independent panel of judges, composed of experts in the property sector and related fields. The judges conduct a transparent, fair, and impartial selection process under the supervision of HLB, the global advisory and accounting network.

Ken Ip, chairperson of the Awards in Mainland China and chairman of Asia MarTech Society, said: “The Mainland Chinese property market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation in the face of headwinds. Last year’s landmark edition of our awards programme showcased the incredible dedication and creativity of developers and designers, setting new benchmarks across China’s real estate industry. Building on this success, we are glad to open entries for the latest edition of our awards, featuring exciting new categories that reflect current trends and opportunities.”

Paul Tse, chairperson of the Awards in Hong Kong and Macau and president of the Macao Association of Building Contractors and Developers, said: “Last year saw the remarkable achievements of the Hong Kong and Macau property sectors showcased on the international platform of the awards. As we embark on a new edition of the awards in 2024, we anticipate an even more robust display of excellence, growth, and development in these cities. We look forward to developers and designers embracing change, exploring fresh opportunities, and guiding consumers towards a more brilliant, sustainable property market in Hong Kong and Macau.”

The PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau) are part of the regional PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards series, which marks its 19th year in 2024. The series covers key markets across the region, spanning Southeast Asia, East Asia, South Asia, and Oceania, with exclusive gala events and ceremonies that represent the most anticipated property events of the year.

Organised by PropertyGuru Group (NYSE:PGRU), the 11th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau) programme is supported by official partner Anjuke; official marketing partner Global Design Awards Lab; official magazine Property Report by PropertyGuru; official publicity partner Molihua Media Group (MMG); media partners Mingtiandi and The Standard; and official supervisor HLB.

For more information, email awards@propertyguru.com or visit the official website: asiapropertyawards.com.

About PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards

For more information, please visit AsiaPropertyAwards.com

About PropertyGuru Group

PropertyGuru is Southeast Asia’s leading(1) PropTech company, and the preferred destination for over 34 million property seekers(2) to connect with almost 55,000 agents’ monthly(3) to find their dream home. PropertyGuru empowers property seekers with more than 2.8 million real estate listings(4), in-depth insights, and solutions that enable them to make confident property decisions across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

PropertyGuru.com.sg was launched in Singapore in 2007 and since then, PropertyGuru Group has made the property journey a transparent one for property seekers in Southeast Asia. In the last 16 years, PropertyGuru has grown into a high-growth PropTech company with a robust portfolio including leading property marketplaces and award-winning mobile apps across its core markets; mortgage marketplace, PropertyGuru Finance; home services platform,Sendhelper; a host of proprietary enterprise solutions under PropertyGuru For Business including DataSense, ValueNet, Awards, events and publications across Asia.

For more information, please visit: PropertyGuruGroup.com;PropertyGuru Group on LinkedIn

PropertyGuru Contacts:

General Enquiries:
Richard Allan Aquino, Head of Brand & Marketing Services
M: +66 92 954 4154
E: allan@propertyguru.com

Media & Partnerships:
Nate Dacua, Media Relations & Marketing Services Manager
M: +66 92 701 2510
E: nate@propertyguru.com

Sales & Nominations:
Kai Lok Kwok, Solutions Manager
M: (+66) 97117 8595
E: kai@propertyguru.com

Yiming Li, Solutions Manager
M: +66 082 292 1309
E: nick@propertyguru.com

Champion REIT Securing New Loan Facilities

HONG KONG, June 3, 2024 – (ACN Newswire) – Champion Real Estate Investment Trust (“Trust”) (stock code: 2778), owner of Three Garden Road and Langham Place, is pleased to announce the successful signing of HK$5.05 billion three-year unsecured loan facility with a group of leading mainland and international financial institutions.

The facility will be used for debt refinancing, with interest margin of 88 basis points over HIBOR. The refinancing received solid support from eight long-standing relationship banks. Together with new loan facilities amounted to HK$1.55 billion secured recently and other committed undrawn facilities, the Trust has already secured sufficient debt facilities to refinance all the outstanding debt due in 2024 and 2025.

Christina Hau, Chief Executive Officer of the REIT Manager, said, “The solid support from the leading financial institutions will empower the Trust to stay resilient, with the refinancing of the largest outstanding loan facility being successfully arranged. The Trust has maintained a low gearing ratio of 22.8% and will continue to adopt a prudent yet flexible financial management strategy to navigate the changing market condition, maintaining its solid financial standing and capital management.”

About Champion REIT (2778)

Website: www.championreit.com