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Singapore’s coffee champions crowned at Singapore National Coffee Championships 2024

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Singapore National Brewers Cup Champion: Elysia Tan, Director of Homeground Coffee Roasters

The winners of this prestigious competition, held at Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia, will represent Singapore at the World Coffee Championships 2025 held in four cities across three continents

Singapore, 2 July 2024 – Speciality Food & Drinks Asia (SFDA) and Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia (SCTA), trade events dedicated to the artisan, gourmet, and fine food and beverages industries, have come to a successful close after three fruitful days. Held at Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore and organised by IEG Asia, the trade events were part of SIGEP Asia, the first Asian edition of the renowned SIGEP Worldwide – the Italian international artisan gelato, pastry, bakery, and coffee trade show, and was held alongside Restaurant Asia and co-located with takeaway and delivery trade show Food2Go.

 

SNCC: Singapore’s flagship competition for the coffee industry

The Singapore National Coffee Championship (SNCC), staged by the Singapore Coffee Association at SCTA over three days, saw 70 participants showcase their skills and passion for coffee making and clinch championship titles in four categories: the Singapore National Barista Championship (presented by Santino), Singapore National Brewers Cup (presented by TIMEMORE), Singapore National Latte Art Championship and Singapore Cup Tasters Championship.

The SNCC is the flagship national competitive event for Singapore’s coffee industry and is aimed at raising the profile of the barista profession, promoting best practices in coffee preparation, and encouraging local baristas to continually improve their craft. The winner of each category at SNCC 2024 will go on to represent Singapore globally at the World Coffee Championships, which will be held on three continents in 2025.

Singapore National Barista Champion: Wong Ruoqi (Chris)

The winner of the Singapore National Barista Championship 2024 is Wong Ruoqi (Chris), Head of Coffee from Santino, who will showcase her brewing skills at the World Barista Championship in Milan, Italy, in October 2025. This category requires participants to demonstrate their skills in preparing innovative espresso-based drinks across the espresso, milk, and signature beverage courses.

“The Singapore National Barista Championship sponsored by Santino is a highly technical category, and I’m happy that all my hard work and preparation has paid off. It will be an incredible honour to fly Singapore’s flag on the world stage. I look forward to showcasing the creativity and passion of our coffee scene in Italy next year,” said Wong Ruoqi (Chris), Singapore National Barista Champion.

Singapore National Brewers Cup Champion: Elysia Tan

The winner of the Singapore National Brewers Cup 2024 is Elysia Tan, Director of Homeground Coffee Roasters. Also, the previous champion from 2019 and 2022, she represents Singapore in the World Brewers Cup in Jakarta, Indonesia, in May 2025.

This category highlights the craft of brewing filtered coffee by hand, and promotes manual coffee-brewing and service excellence.

“Winning the Singapore National Brewers Cup is a huge accomplishment as this competition is all about brewing the perfect cup. Singapore’s coffee scene has indeed grown by leaps and bounds, and this win is dedicated to the incredible work baristas do every day, transforming beans into something beautiful. I’m determined to work harder to refine my craft and compete at the highest level,” said Elysia Tan, Singapore National Brewers Cup Champion.

Singapore National Latte Art Champion: Tan Jia Min

Singapore National Latte Art Champion: Tan Jia Min, Barista at The Populus: Coffee & Food Co.

The Singapore Latte Art Champion 2024 title was clinched by Tan Jia Min, a barista from The Populus: Coffee & Food Co. She will be heading to Geneva, Switzerland, to compete in the World Latte Art Championships in June 2025.

This competition, as its name suggests, showcases participants’ artistic expression in coffee making, using milk-pouring methods to create intricate latte art designs. It is scored based on symmetry, contrast, creativity and visual impact.

“This was an exciting yet nerve-racking experience, but I’m thrilled to win the title of Singapore’s Latte Art Champion. I’m eager to showcase my latte art skills and creativity on the prestigious international stage in Switzerland next year, and I’ll do my best to make Singapore proud,” said Tan Jia Min, Singapore National Latte Art Champion.

Singapore Cup Tasters Champion: Tan Yi Xin

Singapore Cup Tasters Champion: Tan Yi Xin, Barista at Starbucks Coffee Singapore

The winner of the Singapore Cup Tasters Championship 2024 is Tan Yi Xin, a barista from Starbucks Coffee Singapore, and she will be competing at the World Cup Tasters Championship in Geneva, Switzerland, in June 2025.

This category tests one’s ability to quickly and accurately identify subtle taste differences in several cups of speciality coffee.

“Claiming the Singapore Cup Tasters title feels like a dream. Even though I had a throat infection throughout the competition, I decided to let my tongue do the talking and trust my tastebuds. I’m eager to put my palate to the test at the World Coffee Championships in Geneva and see how it stacks up against the best. I’d like to thank the Singapore Coffee Association, my team from Starbucks Coffee Singapore, as well as fellow competitors, for this exhilarating experience,” said Tan Yi Xin, Singapore Cup Tasters Champion.

Putting Singapore’s coffee culture on the world map

Events such as the SCTA and SNCC shine a spotlight on Singapore’s coffee talents and are a true testament to the country’s growing coffee culture.

“The calibre of talent displayed at the SNCC this year was truly remarkable. Each and every participant showcased exceptional technical skills, as well as a deep understanding and appreciation for coffee. Their dedication to their craft is truly inspiring, and we are confident they will represent Singapore proudly at the World Coffee Championships. I’d like to thank our judges, hailing from Singapore, Australia, China, Malaysia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand, for sharing their time and expertise, and my team at SCA for organising the event and ensuring that the four competitions ran smoothly,” said Victor Mah, President of the Singapore Coffee Association.

An array of speciality coffee brands and products, including coffee machines, grinders, pour-over kettles, drippers, beans and pods, were exhibited at SCTA, from local and global brands such as TIMEMORE, DASHER Singapore, Allpress Espresso, Sapori Italiani, Huggs Coffee, Blu Coffee, Beijing Guixia Legend Trading, Glyph Supply Co, MHW-bomber, Prefer and Mii FoodService, and more.

“It has been thrilling to host the SNCC at SCTA within our first-ever SIGEP Asia edition, exposing Singapore’s talents to the world and also showcasing Singapore’s passion for the F&B industry to a global audience. We are proud to have provided a platform where exceptional talent can shine and inspire others. This is truly what SIGEP represents – a world expo for food service excellence – and we look forward to bridging more communities across continents,” said Ilaria Cicero, CEO of IEG Asia and organiser of the events.  

SIGEP Asia: A global gathering hub for all things F&B

The first-ever SIGEP Asia, co-located with the 5th edition of Restaurant Asia, SFDA, SCTA, and Food2Go attracted over 11,000 trade visitors and brought together over 320 brands from more than 30 countries and regions. Encompassing the F&B and Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering (Ho.Re.Ca.) industries, the combined events brought together leading global and Asian industry players and hosted fringe events such as the RAS Leadership Symposium and seminars, masterclasses and tasting sessions with Italian Chefs and Boncafe. A diverse mix of exhibitors, from established global players to exciting homegrown artisanal producers, showcased their F&B products and food service technologies, and country pavilions displayed goods from countries such as Italy, Kuwait, China, Malaysia, Japan and Mexico. Leading tech companies at the Technology & Innovation Pavilion also showcased their food service technologies that would help the industry boost operational efficiency, enhance customer experience and work towards a more sustainable future.

Looking ahead to 2025

SIGEP Asia, Restaurant Asia, SCTA and SFDA will return in 2025 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore. Stay tuned for updates and announcements at https://sigepasia.com.sg/

 

F&N MAGNOLIA introduces Singapore’s very first limited-edition salted caramel pasteurised milk

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Singapore, 2 July 2024  –  Complex flavour, familiar taste – salted caramel is undeniably a match made in heaven flavour in the marvellous world of pastries, desserts, snacks, and all things delicious. The addition of salt creates a contrast that enhances the complexity of caramel’s taste profile, making it one of the most popular pairings for that ultimate taste of irresistible goodness. This distinct flavour can now be savoured through a comforting glass of the limited-edition F&N MAGNOLIA Salted Caramel Low Fat Flavoured Milk.

Created in the 1970s by French pastry chef Henri Le Roux, salted caramel quickly became an all-time-favourite flavour that appeals to the taste buds of all ages. Due to its versatility, this highly sought-after combination can be found in a wide array of scrumptious delights such as cakes, cookies, ice cream, and many more.

Savour the tasty goodness of the brand-new limited-edition F&N MAGNOLIA Salted Caramel Low Fat Flavoured Milk. Rich and creamy with the perfect balance of sweet and saltiness, it is the ideal treat anytime of the day, perfect for dessert lovers looking for a nutritious delight.

Trusted by generations for its quality and taste, F&N MAGNOLIA’s commitment to putting the good in mornings remained consistent since 1937. Known for its wide range of milk variants crafted to cater to consumers’ diverse needs and preferences, the limited-edition indulgent treat can be relished in a healthier way.

Two to three 250ml glasses of milk each day would help to meet the recommended daily dietary allowance for calcium in adults aged between 19 to 50 years old.1

The benefits of consuming milk are endless and it plays an important role in maintaining a balanced diet. According to a research paper published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (USA), milk is a nutrient-dense food with important nutritional value due to the presence of protein, calcium, and other nutrients. Protein in milk helps maintain muscles and stimulates the building of muscles in our bodies which is necessary for growth and development.2

Available exclusively at FairPrice in 946ml packs at the Recommended Selling Price (RSP) of S$3.63, the limited-edition F&N MAGNOLIA Salted Caramel Low Fat Flavoured Milk is the first and only Halal-certified salted caramel pasteurised milk in Singapore, concocted for pure indulgence. This guilt-free treat is lower in sugar, higher in calcium, rated B on the Nutri-Grade scale, and carries the Healthier Choice Symbol (HCS) accorded by the Health Promotion Board (HPB).

For more information, please visit the following official websites and social media platforms:

●       Official website: www.magnolia.com.sg

●       F&N Life: https://sg.fnlife.com/magnolia

●       Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fnnmagnolia/

●       Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/magnoliasg

1.       “5 Benefits of Drinking Milk”, Healthhub.sg, https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/1495/dear-dairy

2.       Davoodi SH, Shahbazi R, Esmaeili S, Sohrabvandi S, Mortazavian A, Jazayeri S, Taslimi A. Health-Related Aspects of Milk Proteins. Iran J Pharm Res. 2016 Summer;15(3):573-591. PMID: 27980594; PMCID: PMC5149046. http://tinyurl.com/ybj86a9v

KFC Malaysia Launches The KFC Scholarship, A RM 2.1 Million Initiative To Fuel The Next Generation Of Leaders

By
Tan Heng Hong
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PETALING JAYA, 3rd JULY 2024 – In celebration of over half a century of enriching Malaysian lives with good food and craveable moments, KFC Malaysia is proud to announce The KFC Scholarship, an initiative aimed at empowering over 30 students from underprivileged communities in Malaysia in their higher education journey. 

The RM2.1 million initiative is targeted for qualified B40 students aiming to pursue their undergraduate degree at any one of the 20 public universities in Malaysia. In addition to tuition fees, the scholarship will cover a monthly living allowance and KFC meal vouchers. 

Applications for the scholarship opened on 28th of May via the KFC website and has drawn over 500 applications since. Students who have received an unconditional offer letter from a Malaysian public university can continue to apply directly for the scholarship program at https://kfc.com.my/scholarship up until 31st July 2024. 

According to a 2023 study by the USCI Poll Research Centre, only half of the 1,000 SPM candidates surveyed planned to pursue tertiary education. Among those not continuing their studies, financial concerns were a significant barrier: 32% cited student loans as a deterrent, and another 32% mentioned high education fees. 

The KFC Scholarship aims to alleviate these financial burdens and empower students to focus on their studies. Rising living costs and education fees have made it increasingly challenging for many families, particularly those in underserved communities, to afford quality education for their children. 

“Education is always close to my heart. It’s the best investment of our children’s future,” said Chairman of QSR Brands Tan Sri Jamaludin Ibrahim. “As operators of the largest fast food chains in Malaysia, we at QSR Brands recognise its power to transform lives, uplift communities, and create a more equitable society. The KFC Scholarship reflects our commitment to investing in the community and empowering the next generation of leaders. By removing financial barriers, we aim to open doors to quality education and build economic opportunities for the future.” 

QSR Brands CEO and Managing Director Nehchal Khanna said “Education is the foundation for a better future and essential in shaping future leaders of Malaysia. We believe the power of education engages minds, hearts, and hands, fostering holistic development.” 

“It’s not just about knowledge; it’s about self-worth, confidence, and resilience. As we invest in education, we create a rich foundation for leadership and we hope through this scholarship program, we will ultimately forge a brighter path our youths, the next generation leaders of our country,” Nehchal added. 

The KFC Scholarship is an extension of the Add Hope Foundation, a charitable arm of KFC Malaysia that focuses on community development and welfare. By channelling resources into education, KFC Malaysia aims to uplift the academic aspirations of students, fostering a brighter future for them and the nation. 

“At KFC Malaysia, we believe in creating a positive and lasting impact on the communities we serve,” said Head of KFC Malaysia Chandrasagran Munusamy. “Through the launch of the first KFC Scholarship, we are investing in the future of Malaysia by empowering young minds with the  

foundation they need to overcome social and economic barriers, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the nation’s development. We hope to impact more young Malaysians in the years to come.” 

The KFC Scholarship applications will remain open until the 31st of July. Shortlisted students will participate in a screening and selection process by a panel of QSR Brands’ leadership team. The scholarship will be awarded to 30 students who will receive financial support to pursue their undergraduate degree for up to four years. 

The KFC Scholarship builds upon QSR Brands’ long-standing commitment to community development and enhancement programs. Through its Add Hope and KFC Feeding Programme, KFC Malaysia has contributed more than RM32 million since 2007. QSR Brands also recently pledged RM2 million to combat child hunger in support of underprivileged students across 28 schools in Malaysia. 

Interested Malaysian students are encouraged to visit https://kfc.com.my/scholarship for detailed information on the KFC Scholarship, including eligibility criteria, the application process, and deadlines. 

Guss Damn Good collaborates with leading food and drink brands for new ice cream series

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Guss Damn Good, which crafts ice-cream flavours reminiscent of summer time memories, family, and life, has collaborated with various leading Thai food brand names like Mama, S Khokaen, Mae Pranom and Roza to launch Guss Grocery Store.

The series consists of collaboration with leading sauce, instant noodle, cookie and medicinal brand and their signature products in an ice cream format. Guss Damn Good is available from 29 June to 31 August 2024 at Guss Grocery Store flagship store in Central World and other branches.

The Guss Grocery Store series demonstrates how popular Thai food and drinks can be turned into ice cream flavours.

Egg White Rice – an Innovative Food for the Health-Conscious

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Monday 01 July 2024 – Chula Faculty of Allied Health Sciences has launched a ready-to-eat flourless rice innovation made from egg whites, branded as “eggyday”.  This product is low in calories, filled with good-quality protein, high in calcium, complete with dietary fibers, and free of gluten. It is suitable for health-conscious people trying to control their weight, the elderly, and those suffering from diabetes.

Rice is a staple food for Thai people and is always present at every meal. However, consuming too much rice can negatively affect health, leading to weight gain and  high blood sugar levels, particularly for diabetic patients who must control their consumption of starch and sugar.

Therefore, a research team, led by Professor Dr. Sirichai Adisakwattana, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Head of the research project on egg white rice products, and Co-Founder of Thandee Innofood Co., Ltd. Startup, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University developed “eggyday” egg white rice substitute through Protein Transformation technology, then shaped into rice grains, and finally sterilized at 121 degrees Celsius heat.

“The production process transforms the egg white protein structure into egg white rice that has the shape, taste, and texture of rice while still maintaining egg white complete nutritional value,” said Prof. Dr. Sirichai.

Guaranteed by the Bangkok International Intellectual Property Invention Innovation and Technology Exposition award, “eggyday” egg white rice is perfect for people with weight problems and those who have undergone stomach surgery due to obesity.  It also works well for health-conscious individuals and suits the lifestyle of city dwellers who often do not have time to prepare their meals.

Some highlights of “eggyday” egg white rice

  • Starch-free
  • Only 20 kilocalories (kcal): 100 grams/ pouch
  • High quality protein
  • High calcium
  • Complete dietary fibers
  • Gluten-free
  • Can be stored up to 18 months without refrigeration.
  • Convenient packets

“eggyday” egg white rice is available at health food stores and leading department stores.  It can also be ordered online via Facebook, Line@, TikTok, and Instagram: @eggyday.official

Read more at  https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/170052/ 

The MICHELIN Guide Singapore 2024: 1 Restaurant Promoted to Two MICHELIN Stars and 4 Restaurants Newly Awarded with One MICHELIN Star

By
Tan Heng Hong
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  • The eighth edition of the MICHELIN Guide Singapore awards 3 three MICHELIN Stars, 6 two MICHELIN Stars, and 42 one MICHELIN Star
  • Singapore sees its second MICHELIN Green Star awarded this year to a MICHELIN Selected restaurant, recognising the restaurant’s sustainable commitment
  • 283 restaurants compose the MICHELIN Guide Singapore 2024 selection with over 35 different cuisine types

Michelin unveiled the full selection of the MICHELIN Guide Singapore 2024. The newly released Guide recommends a total of 283 locations – with 3 three MICHELIN Stars, 6 two MICHELIN Stars, 42 one MICHELIN Star, 81 Bib Gourmand, and 151 MICHELIN Selected venues. This year’s selection also presents the second MICHELIN Green Star in Singapore.

“Singapore’s multicultural character extends beautifully to its world-renowned food scene. The variety of options, from fine-dining establishments to iconic hawker centres steeped in tradition, offers a truly captivating culinary experience for visitors,” shares Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the MICHELIN Guide. “Our inspectors are also witnessing a surge of talented young chefs joining the kitchens. Their passion injects fresh energy and creativity into the scene, pushing boundaries and ensuring Singapore remains a leader in culinary innovation. While their individual styles are distinct, these young chefs share a common vision to collectively elevate Singapore’s reputation as a global gourmet paradise for discerning food lovers worldwide.”

Meta is Promoted to Two MICHELIN Stars

Meta, Chef Sun Kim

Chef Sun Kim hails from Korea’s Busan, and his refined modern cooking combines Korean traditions and bold flavours with contemporary minimalist aesthetics. The dining room shares the same space as the kitchen, for a chef’s table feel. The steamed Jeju abalone with gochujang seaweed risotto is a hit, with its contrasting textures – the tender mollusc, creamy rice and crunchy lily bulbs. The seafood- heavy single set menu will also appeal to meat lovers.

4 Restaurants are Newly Awarded with One MICHELIN Star

Araya, Chefs Araya and Guerrero

Araya is helmed by Chilean chefs Araya and Guerrero, who worked together at a restaurant in China. Their ingenious creations are deeply influenced by Araya’s time in Spain and Japan, showcasing an eclectic mix of Chilean and Japanese produce, all woven together with a South Pacific theme.

Chaleur, Chef Masahiko Kawano

Chaleur is awarded one MICHELIN Star for its 10-course dinner menu that fully expresses executive chef Masahiko Kawano’s culinary vision. After helming some prestigious kitchens in Singapore, Japanese chef Kawano curates a menu that showcases a juxtaposition of French and Japanese ingredients, further elevated by his mastery of solid French techniques. Painstakingly tweaking the consistency of his duck consommé daily, he shows his attention to detail is second to none.

Matera, Chef Bjoern Alexander

Matera is a stone’s throw away from many tourist attractions in Singapore. The dining concept by experienced German chef Bjoern Alexander pushes the boundaries of Italian cooking with its bold Asian influences. Diners can enjoy watching the chefs work their magic in the open kitchen, all while taking in breathtaking views of Marina Bay Sands and the Esplanade. The signature whole red prawn features the perfectly smoked, juicy crustacean with a crispy prawn toast on the side to add contrasting textures.

Pangium, Chef Malcolm Lee

Pangium offers diners a serene view of the lush green garden. Singaporean chef-owner Malcolm Lee’s exquisite tasting menu takes guests on a journey to explore the untapped potential of Straits cuisine. Named after the pangium plant, which produces the buah keluak seed, a key ingredient in Peranakan cooking, Pangium pays homage to family recipes passed down through generations, with carefully crafted dishes that taste exceptional.

Second MICHELIN Green Star in Singapore Awarded to Fiz

Fiz, Chef Hafizzul Hashim

Within the MICHELIN Guide restaurant selection, the MICHELIN Green Star highlights establishments at the forefront of the industry for their sustainable practices and dining experiences that combine culinary excellence with outstanding eco-friendly commitments.

Joining Seroja, the city-state’s first MICHELIN Green Star recipient, the MICHELIN Guide Singapore 2024 welcomes modern Malay restaurant, Fiz (MICHELIN Selected) to the list. Chef-owner Hafizzul Hashim and team offers a set menu inspired by the chef’s childhood memories in Malaysia and is designed to give diners a deeper understanding of Malaysian flavours, incorporating a variety of Malaysian spices and ingredients. The restaurant has also made a good and effective effort demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability through its sourcing practices, energy conservation measures, food waste reduction, and engagement with the local community.

Three MICHELIN Guide Special Awards
In addition to recommending quality restaurants, the MICHELIN Guide also aims to highlight talented individuals who contribute to enhancing the gastronomic dining experience. By doing so, it also acknowledges the diversity of jobs and know-hows involved in the restaurant industry.

MICHELIN Guide Service Award

The 2024 MICHELIN Guide Service Award aims to highlight and encourage skilled and talented professionals who dramatically add to the customer experience. This award goes to Lufianti Susetyo (Fifi) from MICHELIN Selected restaurant Buko Nero.

Fifi has become a warm, friendly, and considerate presence at the family-style Buko Nero Italian restaurant for the past 5 years. Her warm and welcoming demeanor fosters a loyal clientele, a testament to her impeccable service honed over a decade in Singapore’s dining scene. With an ever-present smile and infectious positivity, Fifi creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests. Her keen observational skills allow her to anticipate and cater to each guest’s unique preferences, exceeding expectations with her attentive and personalized approach. This dedication to exceptional service fosters a genuine sense of hospitality, ensuring every diner feels welcome and valued at Buko Nero.

MICHELIN Guide Sommelier Award

The 2024 MICHELIN Guide Sommelier Award recognises the skills, knowledge, and passion of talented sommeliers of the industry. This year, the Sommelier Award is given to Tomas Tapia from newly awarded one MICHELIN Starred restaurant Araya.

Hailing from Santiago, Chile, Tomas brought his wealth of knowledge and passion for wine to Singapore, where he has spent seven years. Beyond his wine expertise, he also possesses a deep understanding of South American cuisine, which he enthusiastically shares with diners. Dedicated to promoting Chilean and South American wines, he regales guests with captivating stories about their unique backgrounds. Through his multifaceted approach, Tomas not only elevates the appreciation of wines but also cultivates a greater understanding and appreciation for the diverse culinary and cultural tapestry of South America.

MICHELIN Guide Young Chef Award

Presented by Blancpain, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide Young Chef Award recognises a young chef working in a restaurant of the selection, and whose exceptional talent and great potential have impressed the inspectors. This year’s award is given to Seth Lai from MICHELIN Selected restaurant, Ce Soir.

Chef Seth’s childhood in the idyllic Malaysian countryside nurtured a profound respect for fresh, seasonal ingredients. Despite hihj76s young age of 30, chef Seth’s lauded tenures at Singapore’s prestigious establishments, including 28 Wilkie and Iggy’s Cuisine, cemented his reputation as a rising culinary star. At the helm of Ce Soir, chef Seth continues to create evocative, boundary-transcending dishes that achieve a harmonious balance between bold flavours and refined simplicity. His intuitive culinary approach draws inspiration from local purveyors, his global travels, and the cherished flavours of his youth, seamlessly integrating tradition and contemporary techniques.

23 Other New Establishments Join the MICHELIN Selection

23 other new locations also join the MICHELIN Guide Singapore 2024 selection as MICHELIN Selected establishments, bringing the total number to 151.

Popular Singaporean dishes steadily shines in the new selected establishments, such as Food Street Fried Kway Teow Mee, Guan Kee Fried Carrot Cake, Maxwell Fuzhou Oyster Cake, Zheng Zhi Wen Ji Pig’s Organ Soup, and more. Some interesting newly selected restaurants include: Tambi, a collaborative effort by chef-owners Sun Kim, of newly promoted two MICHELIN Starred Meta, and Mano Thevar, who helms two MICHELIN Starred Thevar, an innovative restaurant featuring the rare mix of Korean and Indian food. The menu is short but sweet, with creative combinations such as oxtail bone marrow murtabak with kimchi, and a fusion take on Korean cold spicy noodles known as “Tambi’s Bibimmyeon”. Path presents Asian fare underpinned by classic French techniques, such as its mildly hot crabmeat and tofu spread – a perfect accompaniment for the bread baked in the charcoal oven, or the pork trotter wrapped in caul fat doused in a sauce inspired by the Chinese classic of braised pork with pickled mustard greens. Podi & Poriyal – a vegetarian joint that prides itself on the spicy ground lentil condiment known as podi, and sautéed vegetables, or poriyal. Replicating South Indian grandmas’ cooking, the menu covers all plant-based dietary desires, with gluten-free, allium-free and vegan options.

The full selection of the MICHELIN Guide Singapore 2024 is attached to this press release. The restaurant selection joins the MICHELIN Guide selection of hotels, which features the most unique and exciting places to stay in Singapore and throughout the world.

Every hotel in the MICHELIN Guide is chosen for its extraordinary style, service, and personality — with options for all budgets — and each hotel can be booked directly through the MICHELIN Guide website and app.

The MICHELIN Guide is a benchmark in gastronomy. Now, it’s setting a new standard for hotels. Visit the MICHELIN Guide’s official website, or download the MICHELIN Guide mobile app (iOS and Android), to discover every restaurant in the selection and book an unforgettable hotel.

The MICHELIN Guide Singapore 2024 at a glance:

Fake tickets, cheap streams and Harry Kane coins: Kaspersky discovers intensified scamming activity amid EURO 2024

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Example of a crypto scam exploiting EURO 2024

June 28, 2024

As the European Championship kicks off, millions of viewers are flocking to their screens and football stadiums. However, cybercriminals are seizing this opportunity to exploit one of the most anticipated events of 2024. Kaspersky experts have discovered numerous scams designed to steal users’ data and money, all disguised as UEFA 2024-related offers.

Fake tickets

A traditional threat on the eve of any major offline event is ticket fraud, and this championship was no exception. Kaspersky experts have discovered a fraudulent page masquerading as a popular German energy company, offering a giveaway tickets to EURO 2024. Upon proceeding, users are prompted to fill out a form with their name, phone number, and address. This campaign is highly targeted, aiming at the victim company’s employees and partners, meaning fraudsters will take every advantage to infiltrate the target’s infrastructure.

Crypto fraud

Scammers are capitalizing on EURO 2024’s popularity by selling customized coins featuring popular players, promising impressive returns. For instance, Kaspersky experts discovered a scheme involving coins named after Harry Kane. These coins are heavily promoted by fraudsters through email blasts and social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Telegram. Eager traders, not wanting to miss out, rush to buy the coins, driving up their price. Once the price is inflated, the scammers sell their holdings, causing the coin’s value to crash within minutes.

Fake streams

Online viewers should also remain vigilant, as Kaspersky experts have discovered fake streaming platforms offering exclusive event coverage at low prices. Besides leaking payment and personal data, these sites may have built-in XSS vulnerabilities that enable attackers to control your browser.

Fake merch stores

Experts also found fraudulent online stores selling fan paraphernalia: uniforms, scarves, hats and anything else with a 40% discount. Needless to say, those who got lured never received the chosen item.

“These schemes around major events follow a familiar pattern—fraudsters simply change the lure based on current trends. However, we should not underestimate them, as they constantly adapt and find new ways to profit. For example, our recent discovery of cryptocurrency scams tied to popular players shows their ability to exploit emerging opportunities,” comments Olga Svistunova, security expert at Kaspersky.

To learn more about how to stay safe while enjoying the 2024 European Championship, visit Kaspersky Daily.

To stay safe from scams, Kaspersky experts share these tips:

  • Verify Authenticity: Only purchase tickets, merchandise, or services from official and reputable sources. Check the event’s official website for authorized sellers.
  • Be Skeptical of Deals: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of deep discounts and exclusive deals, especially if they come from unknown sources.
  • Secure Your Data: Avoid sharing personal and financial information on unfamiliar websites. Ensure the website is secure by looking for “https” in the URL and a padlock symbol in the browser bar.
  • Use Security Software: Keep your antivirus and security software up to date to protect against malware and phishing attacks. Kaspersky protects its users from all types of phishing and scams.
  • Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common scam tactics and how to recognize them. Follow updates from cybersecurity experts and official sources.

Embrace the goodness of fruits this International Fruit Day with F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH2

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Photo Credits: F&N Foods

Singapore, 1 July 2024  –   Enjoying a colourful variety of fruits as part of a balanced diet is vital for health and maintenance of the body. International Fruit Day is celebrated annually on 1st July to promote the health benefits of eating fruits and to share favourite fruits with family, friends and colleagues. This year, delight in the juiciest fruits through refreshing juices with F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH!  

A nutritious cup of F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH No Sugar Added Cranberry, Pomegranate & Apple Mixed Fruit Juice refreshes the morning or any time of the day. Weekend brunch dates with family and friends, filled with laughter and glasses brimming with colourful juices adds excitement to the gathering. These joyful moments are elevated by savouring juices from the wide selection offered by F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH.   

Delightfully beautiful and delicious, fruits are precious gifts from nature – naturally low in fat, calories and sodium, yet rich in fibre and a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. From crisp pome fruits like apples, tropical delights like guava, antioxidant-packed berries like blueberries, to the juiciest grapes, fruits provide essential vitamins A, C, and E that supports vital bodily functions. Their vibrant colours, enticing aromas, and tantalising tastes are derived from natural phytochemicals – plant compounds such as antioxidants, carotenoids from orange fruits, and anthocyanins from red, blue, and purple varieties are believed to confer numerous health benefits. 

Dedicated to delivering the highest quality with every sip, F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH has distinguished itself as synonymous with aromatic, well-balanced, and refreshing taste. Every glass of juice is made with the finest fruits nature has to offer, embracing the taste of sunshine and the natural goodness of real fruits.  

Conveniently available in packs and for on-the-go consumption, F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH offers a variety of both staples and limited-edition beverages. The No Sugar Added and Reduced Sugar ranges are lower in sugar and carry the Healthier Choice Symbol accorded by the Health Promotion Board. F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH is halal-certified, suitable for those who adopt a plant-based diet and can be found at all leading supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores at the following Recommended Selling Prices:  

●      F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH No Sugar Added Blueberry, Cranberry & Mixed Fruit Juice 

○      946ml – S$2.78 

○      200ml – S$1.26

●      F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH No Sugar Added Daily Greens Mixed Fruit Juice Drink with Celery, Cucumber and Wheatgrass  

○       946ml – S$2.78 

●      F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH No Sugar Added Cranberry, Pomegranate & Apple Mixed Fruit Juice 

○      946ml – S$2.78 

○      200ml – S$1.26

●      F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH No Sugar Added Orange Juice Drink

○      946ml – S$2.78 

●      F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH No Sugar Added Apple Juice 

○      946ml – S$2.78 

○      200ml – S$1.26

●      Limited edition F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH Muscat Grape Juice Drink with Aloe Vera Bits

○      946ml – S$3.55 

●      F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH Reduced Sugar Soursop Juice Drink with Nata De Coco

○      946ml – S$2.67 

○      200ml – S$1.16

A fun way to enjoy F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH  

There is a variety of ways to enjoy fruit juices. A frozen confection made with F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH is a treat on a warm day! From now, stand a chance to win an Ice Cream Maker worth S$199.00 and three functional exercise towels by participating in a Giveaway Contest conducted by F&N FRUIT TREE FRESH. For more details, find out on its Instagram account @fruittreefresh. 

Link to Giveaway Contest: www.instagram.com/p/C8vsP3oyUlP/?igsh=aTdoOXFteXBldnZr  

Malaysia’s Biggest Kidpreneur Programme, Goodday KidSTART 2.0, backed by the Ministry of Education, Concludes, Crowning the Best & Brightest Kidpreneurs from Across the Nation!

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
(From Back, Third from Left-to-Right: Dato' Dr. Hartini Zainuddin, Dr. Aaron Sum, Amy Gan, Shahmeez Reza, Chen Chow Yeoh, Yeoh Li Choo From Front, Left-to-Right: Lim Zhi Fung, Elsa Khaw Wen Qing, Olivia Leong Yue Shuen, Chong Ruyi, Lee Yumi, Muhammad Basyeer Bin Mohamed Ackiel Mohamed, Alea Dalili Binti Mohd Khairil Azhan, Kaviesha AbshiriI A/P Shathya Kugan

KidSTART 2.0 empowers Malaysia’s next generation with key financial literacy lessons, showcasing innovative business ideas from young minds with each taking home a piece of RM60,000 to realise their entrepreneurial dreams.

KUALA LUMPUR, 30th June 2024 – Goodday Milk is proud to announce the conclusion of Malaysia’s Biggest Kidpreneur Programme KidSTART 2.0 campaign, with the spotlight on the top winner, 9-years-old Lee Yumi, who wowed the judges and audiences alike with their ‘OnBoard: School Bus System’, bringing home RM20,000 to make her idea come to life. Supported by the Ministry of Education and Alliance Bank as the Official Bank Partner, the campaign garnered over 4,000 submissions nationwide and continues to build on its mission to empower children with essential financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills, further solidifying Goodday Milk’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of kidpreneurs.

12-years-old Muhammad Basyeer Bin Mohamed Ackiel Mohamed, the brother of last year’s KidSTART 2.0’s champion Fatimah Basyeerah Binti Mohamed Ackiel, won second place with their presentation on ‘The Academy of Future: Peer to Peer Learning Coding & Robotics’. Meanwhile third place went to 9-year-old Lim Zhi Fung with their MindACT: ACTor Program idea.

The event also saw additional award winners: this year’s Most Innovative Idea goes to 12-year-old Alea Dalil binti Mohd Khairil Azhan, while 11-year-old Olivia Leong Yue Shuen won Most Sustainable Idea.The Best Presenter (Above 10), Best Presenter (10 & Below) goes to 12-year-old Kaviesha Abishri A/P Shathya Kugan, and 10-year-old Chong Ruyi respectively. Finally, this year’s Rising Star award which was specifically sponsored by Alliance Bank goes to 9-year-old Elsa Khaw Wen Qing.

Goodday KidSTART 2.0 saw an overwhelming response, with a total of 141 schools across Malaysia participating enthusiastically. The campaign’s success was bolstered by on-ground roadshows covering the Central, South, and North regions, complemented by two online webinars in 27th April and 4th May. This year, Goodday Milk has included a new award for Schools With Highest Participants to encourage more participation. Taking first spot and a prize of RM10,000 was SJK (C) Puay Chai, with an impressive 478 entries with 3 students shortlisted in the Top 20. Olivia Leong Yue Shuen, recipient of the Most Sustainable Award is a student of SJK (C) Puay Chai, and was witnessed by Headmistress Yeoh Li Choo, who appeared during the grand finale to support her students in person.

This level of engagement reflects the growing impact of Goodday KidSTART, which was launched in 2022 and quickly became Malaysia’s largest kidpreneur programme. The initiative aims to raise awareness and promote better financial literacy among the younger generation. Recognizing the critical need for improved financial literacy among Malaysian youth, Goodday KidSTART aims to equip children with the essential knowledge to develop strong money habits early, setting them on a path to a financially sound future. By empowering children with entrepreneurial skills and the knowledge to develop strong money habits early, Goodday Milk is reinforcing its dedication to providing goodness not only through nutrition but also by enhancing the well-being of the community and promoting financial soundness for the next generation.

Amy Gan, VP of Etika’s Marketing, recalled the inaugural KidSTART while expressing her excitement about this year’s success: “When we launched KidSTART 1.0, our goal was to provide the future generation with a platform to showcase their ingenuity and take a significant step in their journey as young entrepreneurs. We wanted to empower them to make the right financial decisions through a fun and engaging initiative successfully bringing in over 300 applicants, making us Malaysia’s Biggest Kidpreneur Challenge. We had an amazing bunch of finalists and winners who truly won us over with their ideas and business plans.”

“For Goodday KidSTART 2.0 we wanted it bigger and better. We knew this was a task that required the fostering of strong relationships with partners who shared our vision for a more financially literate younger generation. We wanted to ensure we reached out to as many children as possible so they too can benefit from the campaign. With the help of the Ministry of Education, we were able to expand our search, bringing KidSTART 2.0 to more children via visits to schools nationwide as well as online webinars. I am truly grateful to the ministry, our sponsors Alliance Bank, and everyone who played a part in this year’s success, breaking last year’s record with over 4,000 participants taking part. This is truly a proud moment for me.”

She added, “My heartiest congratulations to our winners and top 20 finalists. Once again I am blown away by the depth of creativity and intelligence of our future generation. To the parents who played a part in their submissions, thank you. Your commitment to excellence for your children will leave a lasting and positive impact on their lives I’m sure. Goodday Milk is committed to providing goodness beyond nutrition and enhancing the well-being of our community. We look forward to welcoming more partners to join us in inspiring and future-proofing the next generation.

Dr. Aaron Sum, Alliance Bank’s Group Chief Strategy, Marketing, & Business Development Officer, and a member of the judging panel shared his thoughts: “Today, entrepreneurship has become a key and popular life path among our youths and this programme provides a great platform to nurture, develop and prepare the next generation in becoming savvy business leaders. This is very much aligned with our strategy of helping aspiring businesses, SMEs and MSMEs thrive and succeed by providing a combination of financial and non-financial resources.”

He further shared, “As the Bank for Life, we empower aspiring entrepreneurs and help accelerate their business growth through the provision of financial support, entrepreneurship training, coaching and mentorship as well as assistance in introducing ESG elements or sustainable practices to their business operations and many more. We are committed to supporting the community through programmes such as these to help our youth succeed in the future.”

9-year-old Lee Yumi, KidSTART2.0’s Champion expressed her excitement and gratitude: “Thank you to my parents who have greatly helped in inspiring this idea because without them I might not be able to present the idea in detail in front of the judges. I also want to thank Goodday Milk for giving me the opportunity to present my idea.”

Yumi’s idea to create the application arose after often getting stuck in traffic congestion on the way to school every day. “This application was also created to encourage students to use the school bus service as it can help reduce traffic congestion issues,” she said.

The esteemed panel of judges for the event included Ms Zakiah Hanim, Head of Communications & CSR of Lotuss Stores (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Dato’ Dr. Hartini Zainuddin from Yayasan Chow Kit, Dr. Aaron Sum from Alliance Bank, Shahmeez Reza, Senior Manager of Trade Marketing and Marketing Services, and Chen Chow Yeoh, Angel Investor. Their combined expertise and diverse backgrounds provided invaluable insights and guidance to the participants, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each innovative idea presented.

KidSTART 2.0 Group Photo with Contestants, Judges and Parents

The Goodday KidSTART 2.0 campaign ran from 4th March to 23rd June 2024, featuring a series of online webinars, school activations and a rigorous selection process that culminated in a 2-day comprehensive workshop on the 29th of June, providing the top 20 kidpreneurs with essential skills such as Business Models, Design Thinking, Effective Presentation, Creative Problem-Solving, and Environmental Entrepreneurship. The workshop was a key component of the programme, equipping the young entrepreneurs with better financial understanding and the knowledge and skills needed to refine and
present their business ideas on the 30th of June before the judges. Cash prizes from a fund pool of RM60,000 were up for grabs to help these young entrepreneurs kick-start their business ideas.

For more information about Goodday KidSTART 2.0, follow Goodday Milk Malaysia on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

Nutri-Asia launches new Oppa Mixes approved by Korean oppas

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Nutri-Asia, the leading manufacturer of condiments and sauces in the Philippines, has released the new Oppa Mixes in the country. This all-purpose Korean-style meat sauce can be used for glazing, dipping, or marinating pork, chicken or beef.

Consumers can use UFC Oppa Mixes as a marinade to your Samgyupsal or cook Korean classics like Yangneom Chicken wings. UFC Oppa Mixes come in two flavours Soy Garlic and Sweet & Spicy.

Nutri-Asia has roped in Korean heartthrob Kim Seon Ho to promote its Korean-inspired meal mixes.

We are increasingly seeing local sauce and condiment brands launch their own Korean sauces and mixes at a more affordable price and with a taste that is more suitable for local consumers.

 

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